It was Lammonby's ridiculous shot that really opened the door for that collapse. Banton fell to a brilliant catch, and Rew and Aldridge got good balls. Somerset were going along nicely until Lammonby gave his wicket away.
Yeah, I'm aware of why we did. I'm not saying I'd have chosen to bat first. Just that I'd have been fine with losing the toss, because I don't think it's a clear cut decision either way. And we're not yet into Somerset's strength - removing their batters is rarely a problem for anyone! Fuller has already done more than Hampton.
Although without Gregory - and with RVDM no longer around - the Somerset tail doesn't look as strong as in previous years.
See, it was a no brainer to me. The only way I can see us getting a win is bowling first, skittling Somerset and getting a big first innings lead. I suspect a whole day's play will be lost with the rain that's imminent (first session tomorrow may be washed out as well). My target was 4 wickets this morning so I'm very happy with 6.
It would be a very brave call to bring Baker back in for the next game in place of Hampton (in effect replacing Hampton with Fuller) but overseas players have been dropped before, by other counties. Time for him to tighten up his bowling!
I'm pleased to see Haines starting life in D1 so well. It's always looked like he's had talent for Sussex, but it's so difficult to be sure when he's mainly been facing D2 bowlers in four day cricket, and reserve/young bowlers in one day cricket. And of course it's even better that he's scoring his runs this week against Surrey. It's looking like they'lll be starting the season with zero wins from three games. So if we can beat Somerset, we could open up a little gap over Surrey.
Out for 34 off 20 balls in the end. His power and timing is scarily good for someone who has only just turned 14.
If we hadn't lost so much time in this match, we'd have a great base right now to get the win. But as it is - and with an iffy looking forecast on Monday - a draw is probably the most likely result. We might have to forgo the ideal plan of batting big and once, and instead just crack on tomorrow and try and get as many as possible before declaring (or being bowled out) maybe just after lunch.
The forecast is so vague at the moment it's impossible to know how much play there will be on Monday. Sounds like it will be sunshine and showers. Could be lucky or unlucky with them.
Yes that was a loose shot by Dawson, but I've always like Lammonby as a bowler. Feels like Somerset have regularly under-bowled him in his career. I'm presuming that Albert is injured?
Happy with a 152 run lead. The game has moved along quickly this morning and that's what is needed with potentially dodgy weather tomorrow.
