On The Circuit
Free from the iron grip of Wessels
Kepler Wessels' autocratic style of management finally put paid to him, with the players calling in their union, the Professional Cricketers
Will
25-Feb-2013
Kepler Wessels' autocratic style of management finally put paid to him, with the players calling in their union, the Professional Cricketers
Full postRobinson reaps where Moores sowed
Wait 164 years for a Championship, then two pop along at once
Will
25-Feb-2013
Wait 164 years for a Championship, then two pop along at once. Sussex hoped the transfer from Peter Moores to Mark Robinson as coach would be invisible; in fact it was conspicuous for the right reasons: more wins than any county (26), fewest defeats (11) and an old-fashioned double, which was one batting collapse short of a treble. Not even Moores managed that. But, as Robinson ungrudgingly admits, he reaped the benefits of the workethic, unity and empathy for individuality sowed by Moores. Only three mainstays of the 2003 Championship-winning side
Full postThe Warne effect cuts two ways
There were two distinct Hampshires in 2006: one with Shane Warne leading with verve, imagination and aggression, another more timid variety, left to their own devices during his trips home
Will
25-Feb-2013
There were two distinct Hampshires in 2006: one with Shane Warne leading with verve, imagination and aggression, another more timid variety, left to their own devices during his trips home. There is no doubt that Hampshire have developed a Warne complex, emboldened by his formidable presence and like a toddler without a parent in his absence. Warne must surely be the best captain Australia never had. To watch him change his field at least once an over, manoeuvring, cajoling, intimidating all at once, is an education and Hampshire have reaped a huge benefit from his wholehearted commitment. At least they won promotion from the second division of the one-day league, worthy enough in itself, but the big target was the Championship and third place was only just acceptable. Chris Tremlett
Full postKey's first turn fails to open the door
For Rob Key it was a vexing first campaign in charge
Will
25-Feb-2013
For Rob Key it was a vexing first campaign in charge. His own poor form, financial woes, the flogging of precious family jewels and a bitter response from reactionaries to some sensible development proposals hardly helped. Caught between generations
Full postFree fall after the frolics
What is it about Durham and Twenty20
Will
25-Feb-2013
What is it about Durham and Twenty20? Last year they went into the competition as promotion favourites on the back of five Championship wins. The second half of the season yielded only a single win as they staggered over the finishing line. The pattern was repeated this year. There was little talk of relegation after three wins in the first eight games but again they went into free fall, with one win and four defeats after Twenty20. They escaped the drop by half a point
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