Wednesday 4 April 2012

13 named for Sussex opener


Chris Adams has named a 13 man squad for the first LVCC Division 1 match of the season, when Surrey take on Sussex at the Kia Oval starting tomorrow.

There isn’t many surprises in the squad, with the main issue being whether to go with the in form Rory Burns, or the more experienced Gary Wilson in the wicket keepers position. Well, Adams has gone with Burns, and I have to agree with him. He has been in good touch all pre season, and obviously scored his first hundred at the weekend. If not picked, then Burns will have been wondering what he had to do to get selection, especially when opportunities will be limited with
Steven Davies coming back next week.

3 vastly experienced batsman have come into the squad, in the shape of Rudolph, Zander and Ramps, to strengthen the batting. Adding to them will be the flair of RHB and Maynard, and if on form, no one can argue that it would be one of the strongest looking batting line up on the county circuit.

A big selection dilemma for Adams is the openers situation. Rudolph arrived yesterday, and will play, so one of either Jordan or Roy is likely to be picked. Adams seems to like Jordan opening the batting, as he has done so most of pre season, but don’t discount Roy, who is a match winner and can change a game at the drop of a hat. Roy, though, hasn’t opened at all in pre season, so maybe Adams is looking for more stability at the top, rather than Roy’s typical run-a-ball 40 then get out. My head says Chris Jordan should get the nod, but my heart says Roy, because if he comes off, it will be a great start to an innings.

Whoever Adams picks to open, will also have an effect on the bowling line up. Including Jordan, 5 seamers have been named, with Lewis, Dernbach, Meaker and the Viscount making up a very strong looking attack. I presume Batty will play, and bat at 8, so that leaves 9, 10 and 11 for 3 of Meaker, Lewis, Linley and Dernbach. If Jordan opens, he may go with Lewis, Linley and Dernbach and leave out Meaker, as he and Jordan are a similar type of bowler. However, if Jordan doesn’t play, the extra pace of Meaker may be needed, so even though he was so good last season, the Viscount could be the one to miss out.

So, some very important decisions for the coach to make, but its better to have competition for places, than struggling to put out a competitive team.

Here is the squad in full:



The match starts at 11, and I’m glad to say that the weather looks ok at the moment, and I’m looking forward to seeing a competitive first day, with Surrey coming out on top. Come on the Rey!!

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