Yeah, i'll only be truly happy when we have seen the back of Patel and Read relatively quickly, they have been pests in the past.
Wood can bat, and we know first hand that Tahir can swing it, so their tail is certainly better than ours. But you'd think it is mainly down to these two.
Although until that wicket, this current spell of his (either side of lunch) is maybe evidence of why Notts, and then Derby, let him go. Not that I'm complaining, 4-45 is still excellent.
Warks have lost 3-2, and Surrey are in control there. Looking more and more like this is a must-win for us now, rather than a must-not-lose. Interesting though that if there is a winner, and Surrey win their game, then Warks (and possibly Durham and/or Lancs) might start to feel a bit of pressure for the first time. Wood hits one high into the air off McLaren, but it falls safe.
Annoying that our 1st innings lead isn't much greater than 74, but good to see Dawson end it quickly. And tbf, Read is surely the best player in the country at instigating lower order fight backs. We're still in control of this match. Just.
Don't want to speak too soon but things are looking pretty good for Hampshire. Lead is now 159 with only one wicket down and Adams has just got to 50. If these two get to the close and they can get another 150 or so ahead tomorrow morning they'd look good for a win.
50 for Jimmy. Certainly from a batting point of view in recent weeks it's a mirror image from last season (batters suddenly finding form again). Just need that turnaround in the bowling now. Can Carter be this season's Fidel?
