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Twenty20 Semi-Finals Interactive Report
More of The Same Please
By Ged & Many Many MTWDers
July 26 2008
In a first for MTWD, reports will be e-mailed/texted in from the ground (and wherever) to enable us to keep an interactive report going during the semi-finals part of the day. It's easy to participate - just text or e-mail to mtwdadmin@googlemail.com and we'll try to publish as many of the comments and reports as we possibly can.
In a first for MTWD, reports will be e-mailed/texted in from the ground (and wherever) to enable us to keep an interactive report going during the semi-finals part of the day.
Lizzie J is leading our "at the ground" team, while Ged Ladd will do his best between matches to update this report with the best of the comments that arrive from the MTWD world.
It's easy to participate - just text or e-mail to mtwdadmin@googlemail.com and we'll try to publish as many of the comments and reports as we possibly can.
Alternatively, of course, if you prefer and are near a PC, you can still comment on the match topic in the normal way. But the main purpose of the interactive report is to gather live reports from Lizzie J and the texters at the ground itself.
Indeed, one text has already arrived overnight. It's from Daisy and reads "whr hll u? dina dry". Perhaps someone can translate that for me.
The fun starts here.
Big Match(es) Build Up
First text of the day is fom Barmy Kev, reporting severe delays out of Waterloo due to a person under a train. Not quite the sort of text we were aiming at but worth reporting nonetheless. In typical Barmy Kev fashion, he suggests that the man under the train might have been a Surrey fan trying to spoil Middlesex's outing. Typical and sick, Kev.
12:36 - several messages have arrived together. Barmy Kev says "Durham r goin' to hammer us" - for goodness sake Kev, stop the nerves and start enjoying the day. Barmy Jas (who he/she?) thinks that "we'll lose the semi but win the final" - clearly an expert! Winsky Major predicts "Middlesex to beat Essex in the final". Winsky Minor says "I'm just happy to be here".
Hippity says "it's the spinners who are doing the damage and we've got 2 real ones and two part-time ones. I say we'll win! I say we'll win!! I say we'll win!!!"
Ged says, "calm down everyone. It's not even Middlesex yet. Besides, it's peaceful here at home on my sunlounger with Radio5 Live Sports Xtra in my ears".
13:51 update. A message from Lizzie J via Barmy Kev: "I have no credit left on my mobile". Ged muses that the BBC never seems to have these problems.
Kev has just texted to say "Barmy Paul and I don't no who 2 shout 4 in Kent Essex game, so when it's quiet we shout 'come on Tim' for no reason." Thanks for that Kev. Logical as ever.
DURHAM INNINGS
Lizzie (via Kev) "too nervous to speak"
Seaxe Man "Come On The Middle"
Shrek Wasp "Yes!!!" (that was Murtagh's first wicket)
Barmy Kev "Start too good to be true"
Barmy Kev "Dirk not match fit yet"
Shrek Wasp "Tim Murtagh: made in Surrey, perfected in Middlesex"
Barmy Kev "Thought Billy and TSO were going to crash" (catch for 2nd wicket to fall)
Barmy Kev "Shags great first over. Hope not a noble (no ball) effort from TSO"
Barmy Kev "that over a Murali booster!"
Barmy Kev "Chanderpaul only here for his average" (Ged replied "Benninglike")
Ged thinks everyone should know that Daisy dozed off during the 16th over
Barmy Kev "Durham fans cheer Chandabore's dismissal. Chanda MOM for us so far"
138/6
Ged's opinion: Middlesex bowled really well. Especially the spin twins. They are playing two spinners also but are their spinners as good as our spinners? If we can bat withr easonable purpose and keep our heads, the final is there waiting for us. But Durham are strong bowling.
Barmy Kev has just e-mailed in to say "spinnas key in every innings so far - they have brought in Wiseman especially. My glass is half empty". Ged thinks Kev should fill up his glass and chill out.
MIDDLESEX INNINGS
Barmy Kev: "Bought a pint. Now totally full as we get a 4."
Barmy Kev wants a chant for Plunkett (Blunkett) of "where's your guide dog gone?" Perhaps Ged shouldn't encourage Kev to drink!
Ged thinks he saw Barmy Paul on the TV, but it all happened so quickly.
Barmy Kev says that Hendo only knows one shot.
Only 30 or so runs still to get; Ged wants to know if he has died and gone to heaven.
Daisy thinks she spots Shrek Wasp in the crowd but it all happened so quickly.
Ged wonders who should be man of the match.
Barmy Kev suggests Chandapoor.
Middlesex are in the final. Who would have thought it just a few weeks ago, before the tournament started?
more to follow........
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Middlesex till we die
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26/07/2008 05:58
Click here for
Twenty20 Semi-Finals Interactive Report
[Made Sticky and linked by admin]
Edited 2 time(s). Last edit at 2008:08:03:19:21:27 by Ged.
Twenty20 Semi-Finals Interactive Report
[Made Sticky and linked by admin]
Edited 2 time(s). Last edit at 2008:08:03:19:21:27 by Ged.
It's Saturday and it's three o'clock.
A time and day by long tradition we put away our concerns of the week and indulge ourselves in the fortunes of our favourite team.
When The Blues and The Pinks run out at five to three this week,excitement will be at all-time high.
We'll be cheering on the gallant Crusaders and our fellow fans lending their support to The Dashing Dynamoes.
An old fashioned clash between the Southern sophisticates and the Northern artisans.
Much is at stake,and the oohs and ahhs will be loud over Southampton waters.
90 minutes of heart stopping action(thats the first innings)followed by a second half which will be equally enthralling.
We send our brave lads forth and wish them the best of fortune in their bid for Glory.
Go to it boys,our hopes and prayers are with you.
[edited by admin merely to make sticky]
Edited 4 time(s). Last edit at 2008:07:25:06:28:53 by Ged.
A time and day by long tradition we put away our concerns of the week and indulge ourselves in the fortunes of our favourite team.
When The Blues and The Pinks run out at five to three this week,excitement will be at all-time high.
We'll be cheering on the gallant Crusaders and our fellow fans lending their support to The Dashing Dynamoes.
An old fashioned clash between the Southern sophisticates and the Northern artisans.
Much is at stake,and the oohs and ahhs will be loud over Southampton waters.
90 minutes of heart stopping action(thats the first innings)followed by a second half which will be equally enthralling.
We send our brave lads forth and wish them the best of fortune in their bid for Glory.
Go to it boys,our hopes and prayers are with you.
[edited by admin merely to make sticky]
Edited 4 time(s). Last edit at 2008:07:25:06:28:53 by Ged.
We'll use this thread for the big match build up!
The latest betting is:
9/4 Durham
5/2 Kent
7/2 Essex
7/2 Middx
For our semi-final it's 4/6 Durham.6/5 Middx
9/4 Durham
5/2 Kent
7/2 Essex
7/2 Middx
For our semi-final it's 4/6 Durham.6/5 Middx
Don't even think about it.Our odds are ludicrously short.
Don't even think I'd be taking 7-1 this evening somehow.
7/2 Middx .
Wasn't that taken from our recent scorecard.
Barmy Kev
I'm only here for the tele
Wasn't that taken from our recent scorecard.
Barmy Kev
I'm only here for the tele
Good one kev!! hope we can really achieve on sat! will back us all the way
4/6 durham looks pretty good really....
I have merged the "betting odds" thread into this one to keep the big match build up chat together.
Quote:If Durham were 4-6 at one point we might stand a chance of making the final.On the other hand.....free entry 2 lords
4/6 durham looks pretty good really....
Durham bat futher down than us , have a variety of bowlers, ECB have done us no favours and they have momentum coming into this game. All Sky pundits have gone for Durham. I think we have as much chance of winning this as beating Lanky in 1/4 finals
Barmy Kev
I'm only here for the tele
Barmy Kev
I'm only here for the tele
Well said Kev - if Sky's so called 'experts' are all predicting a Durham win, we're basically guaranteed to get through.
Why all the doom and gloom? We have been the best side in the competition up to this point, all our bowlers will be fit, and I fail to see how struggling in the 4-day game has any impact whatsoever on how we perform on Saturday.
I'm feeling positive. I would say that, as the bookies have it, Durham are slight favourites. But we mustn't forget we've won 9 out of the 10 proper 20 over matches we've played this season...
Why all the doom and gloom? We have been the best side in the competition up to this point, all our bowlers will be fit, and I fail to see how struggling in the 4-day game has any impact whatsoever on how we perform on Saturday.
I'm feeling positive. I would say that, as the bookies have it, Durham are slight favourites. But we mustn't forget we've won 9 out of the 10 proper 20 over matches we've played this season...
Twenty20 champs will now be going to the Caribbean in October to play Trinidad for $400,000 prize as part of the Stanford Super Series. Game live on Sky Sports.
Stanford Super Series
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2008:07:25:12:52:22 by Middlesex Ultra.
Stanford Super Series
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2008:07:25:12:52:22 by Middlesex Ultra.
All the Sky pundits tipped Lancashire to beat us at the Oval. All the Sky pundits and pretty much everyone else had us down as the worst 20/20 side in the country before the tournament even started. Say no more............come on the men in pink!
Good luck to everyone tomorrow,I hope you all have a great day and have something to celebrate at the end.
Give them stick lads,the bookies don't always get it right.
Give them stick lads,the bookies don't always get it right.
Thanks, BJ. I'm sure we'll all have a 'giggle'! I'll try and post some pictures.
Tks Big Jim.It will be just like us to pull out two blinding results when totally unexpected.Come on lads,give us something to cheer!
Anybody seen this
Only Middx and Essex to be allowed in Champions league
It seems that ourselves and Essex would be the only two teams allowed to enter because of "rebel" players. What happens if we both lose our semis???
Only Middx and Essex to be allowed in Champions league
It seems that ourselves and Essex would be the only two teams allowed to enter because of "rebel" players. What happens if we both lose our semis???
Ah the clash of the northern rock teams � I was hoping this would be the set up for the final � oh well! They will look good anyway pink and blue v black with pink piping. It�s also the clash of traditionally the worst Twenty20 sides!
Both are equally capable of a good on paper batting collapse, and both have strong bowling line-ups if they are fit and paying attention! I cant wait! As my tip for the top at the start of the season, I always thought Middlesex to be a very good Twenty20 side. If Dirty Dirk is fit you have a fantastic team.
Bring it on! - see you there!
Both are equally capable of a good on paper batting collapse, and both have strong bowling line-ups if they are fit and paying attention! I cant wait! As my tip for the top at the start of the season, I always thought Middlesex to be a very good Twenty20 side. If Dirty Dirk is fit you have a fantastic team.
Bring it on! - see you there!
I think we can beat Durham.
The only negative being our dreadful performance in the 4 day match this week - but maybe their minds were elsewhere.
I think our batting and bowling (especially in the spin dept) is better. Chanderpaul is out of sorts, so is Collingwood. No problem - bring it on!!
The only negative being our dreadful performance in the 4 day match this week - but maybe their minds were elsewhere.
I think our batting and bowling (especially in the spin dept) is better. Chanderpaul is out of sorts, so is Collingwood. No problem - bring it on!!
does the way the squad has been written mean Berg playing?? Could it be inspired choice; big hitter, extra bowling or will it mean too much a lack of depth in batting?? Either way, gna enjoy the day!
Collingwood out of sorts ?
Would that be the same Collingwood who took great delight in smashing the ball to all parts of Uxbridge on Sunday ?
Agreed though , get into them early,before they settle and we will have a good chance . The return (if it is to be) of Nannes and maybe even Berg will be a bit of a suprise to Durham as neither played in the P40 game .
Would that be the same Collingwood who took great delight in smashing the ball to all parts of Uxbridge on Sunday ?
Agreed though , get into them early,before they settle and we will have a good chance . The return (if it is to be) of Nannes and maybe even Berg will be a bit of a suprise to Durham as neither played in the P40 game .
TSO . Please no no balls
Barmy Kev
I'm only here for the tele
Barmy Kev
I'm only here for the tele
Haha, Diamond. I was thinking the same. And Chanderpaul also played pretty well last Sunday. Maybe their form has dropped since then - well, we can hope.
I'd guess Berg and Finn to sit out the S-F. Good luck to whoever plays.
I'd guess Berg and Finn to sit out the S-F. Good luck to whoever plays.
It's gonna be a beautiful day, but will it be Middlesex's day? We'll find out soon enough.
I have a good feeling about it - the return of Nannes will be a significant factor.
Here's the squad - link to Off. site:
Squad on Off. Site
Berg for Godleman is a very interesting debate, but in my view Billy G has done enough in this tourny to deserve his place. Berg I suspect is sensible squad cover for the day, as he could play the final to replace pretty much anyone other than the keeper.
Go for it, Middlesex!!
I have a good feeling about it - the return of Nannes will be a significant factor.
Here's the squad - link to Off. site:
Squad on Off. Site
Berg for Godleman is a very interesting debate, but in my view Billy G has done enough in this tourny to deserve his place. Berg I suspect is sensible squad cover for the day, as he could play the final to replace pretty much anyone other than the keeper.
Go for it, Middlesex!!
About to leave. First snag Mrs Barmy trying to Sky + it
Can't do individual games so have to do full 12 hours of coverage and not sure if we have space. Hopefully some deletion of programmes we will never watch.
Meanwhile nervous already 6 an harf ours before kick off. Matron!!!!
Barmy Kev
I'm only here for the tele
Can't do individual games so have to do full 12 hours of coverage and not sure if we have space. Hopefully some deletion of programmes we will never watch.
Meanwhile nervous already 6 an harf ours before kick off. Matron!!!!
Barmy Kev
I'm only here for the tele
Should be a cracking day.
A great chance for the boys to win something after 15 years. I could make a case for any of the 4 teams to win today - Durham with an excellent batting line-up and world-class bowling; Kent: effective one-day bowling unit and bat down the order; Essex: Napier! plus Bopara's been in fine form and ten Doeschate is a dangerman.
Us? Well, I think Shah, so impressive a couple of years back in this comp, might be good for runs. Obviously, Morgan and Malan have caught the eye this year and if they get going, supported by the mighty Henderson, our batting will be competitive. As for the bowling, with Nannes back we have variety, Henderson will provide guile, and the 2 spinners have controlled previous matches. Perhaps Murtagh, who tends to pitch on standard good length, will be the one that batsmen go after.
So, anyone can win today. And with only 20 overs a side, overall gaps in quality are minimised. For what it's worth, The Times tips the Middle to come out on top.
Good luck, lads and do us proud!
A great chance for the boys to win something after 15 years. I could make a case for any of the 4 teams to win today - Durham with an excellent batting line-up and world-class bowling; Kent: effective one-day bowling unit and bat down the order; Essex: Napier! plus Bopara's been in fine form and ten Doeschate is a dangerman.
Us? Well, I think Shah, so impressive a couple of years back in this comp, might be good for runs. Obviously, Morgan and Malan have caught the eye this year and if they get going, supported by the mighty Henderson, our batting will be competitive. As for the bowling, with Nannes back we have variety, Henderson will provide guile, and the 2 spinners have controlled previous matches. Perhaps Murtagh, who tends to pitch on standard good length, will be the one that batsmen go after.
So, anyone can win today. And with only 20 overs a side, overall gaps in quality are minimised. For what it's worth, The Times tips the Middle to come out on top.
Good luck, lads and do us proud!
You cannot just take eleven,so thirteen must be the minimum requirement,although I suspect at least one more will be standing by in case of injury.
The right squad I believe,and every hope for further glory.
Sorry I can't be with you lads on this auspicious occassion but may good fortune avail you all, and I know that none on view today will be giving less than 100%.
The right squad I believe,and every hope for further glory.
Sorry I can't be with you lads on this auspicious occassion but may good fortune avail you all, and I know that none on view today will be giving less than 100%.
Interactive report updated
Interactive report updated again.
Ben Scott has been seen on Sky TV practising reverse sweeps and trying to copy Peitersen in the nets
Top effort in the field by the boys. There was a little period when Mustard and Collingwood were going when Durham looked on course for a huge total.
Of the bowlers, Murtagh - despite my typical lousy prediction - was excellent; Nannes was perhaps rusty in his first spell then came back well; Henderson varied it without being quite at his best; and the spinners were so impossibly tight.
And credit to Joyce for a good call to give Malan the 16th over - and he showed great calm.
139 to get - not going to be easy against a top bowling attack. C'mon the Sex!!!!!!!!
Of the bowlers, Murtagh - despite my typical lousy prediction - was excellent; Nannes was perhaps rusty in his first spell then came back well; Henderson varied it without being quite at his best; and the spinners were so impossibly tight.
And credit to Joyce for a good call to give Malan the 16th over - and he showed great calm.
139 to get - not going to be easy against a top bowling attack. C'mon the Sex!!!!!!!!
Interactive report updated at half time.
What a performance!
Now all we need to do is polish off the final and we've won some silverware!!
Now all we need to do is polish off the final and we've won some silverware!!
Been on the road all day .
Had to suffer the idiots at TalkFootball on the radio "Andy Murtagh " "Billy god all ming" , no idea where or who the fielders were . Thank christ I got in the car to find Radio London covering our game ...... by the time I got half way home Hand and Church had seen us over the line .
Monster performance all round , brilliant bowling , good solid opening to the batting but the stand out has to be the Typhoon , you can see where he got that nickname from: 21 balls 2x4's, 7x6's for his 59 not out , amazing to listen too and even better if you were there and not in the line of fire !!
Job 1 done , now finish it with a trophy .
Kent will be tough to beat they played a good game in their semi , outclassed Essex in the areas that mattered and took wickets when required, something Durham could not do .
On to the final and Dubai !!
Had to suffer the idiots at TalkFootball on the radio "Andy Murtagh " "Billy god all ming" , no idea where or who the fielders were . Thank christ I got in the car to find Radio London covering our game ...... by the time I got half way home Hand and Church had seen us over the line .
Monster performance all round , brilliant bowling , good solid opening to the batting but the stand out has to be the Typhoon , you can see where he got that nickname from: 21 balls 2x4's, 7x6's for his 59 not out , amazing to listen too and even better if you were there and not in the line of fire !!
Job 1 done , now finish it with a trophy .
Kent will be tough to beat they played a good game in their semi , outclassed Essex in the areas that mattered and took wickets when required, something Durham could not do .
On to the final and Dubai !!
Middlesex have won the toss and will bat.
Good toss to win I think.
Good toss to win I think.
I think with the pace of the wicket dying off as the day goes on and the wicket changing, winning the toss and batting gives our bowlers not only a longer break but a very good chance of winning us the trophy.
Come on the Sex!!!!
Come on the Sex!!!!
Get in there Joycey !!!
Hendo top man , now Ace and Morgs do the buisiness .,
145-3 . Come on the Sex !!!!!!
145-3 . Come on the Sex !!!!!!
Good total, now defend it.
Up the Sex!!
Up the Sex!!
7-2 looks pretty good right now , find me a bookie that's open !!
Here we g0 lads (and lasses) 15 years in the waiting and we have never had a better chance than this , superb batting , now let slip the dogs of war !!!
188 for Kent to win (the highest score in a final )
edit (sore to score) , what a muppet , come on the Sex.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2008:07:26:19:50:31 by The Diamond ruled ok.
188 for Kent to win (the highest score in a final )
edit (sore to score) , what a muppet , come on the Sex.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2008:07:26:19:50:31 by The Diamond ruled ok.
Well, it's all gone quiet over there.
Middlesex well placed now - we just have to bowl and field well.
The interactive service has shut down for the day, but the good news is that Daria is set to produce a match report of the final.
The bad news is that, by all accounts, Barmy Kev has tracked her down at the Rose Bowl and is plying her with drink.
So don't hold your breath for the final report!!
Middlesex well placed now - we just have to bowl and field well.
The interactive service has shut down for the day, but the good news is that Daria is set to produce a match report of the final.
The bad news is that, by all accounts, Barmy Kev has tracked her down at the Rose Bowl and is plying her with drink.
So don't hold your breath for the final report!!
If Kev's got to her with the drink , forget it till Tuesday .
Diamond on the drink but without the 4 hour journey (athome).
Diamond on the drink but without the 4 hour journey (athome).
MAGIC , you guys are superb, did the stuff and did
the job .
CHAMPIONS !!!!!!!!!!!
Superb !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
To many exclamation marks I know but top stuff by the boys .
the job .
CHAMPIONS !!!!!!!!!!!
Superb !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
To many exclamation marks I know but top stuff by the boys .
Many congratulations to all of you,it was a deserved victory.
I was nervous watching that,I can't imagine how you all must have felt.
Really well done and enjoy it.
I was nervous watching that,I can't imagine how you all must have felt.
Really well done and enjoy it.
Just turned on the TV................. I can't believe it.
I've been stewing ALL day.
Well done boys!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
I've been stewing ALL day.
Well done boys!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
TOP BANNANA .
Cheers Big Jim and all those that supported us from the other counties .
A Trophy with big dosh to boost the result , I'm over the moon and I ain't got sky !!
MOM + tough call , MOday = Typhoon ,
Lots of years of nothing and now this , you guys make me want to cry and I'm a 48 year old man !!
Cheers BBC London for the coverage and up the Breast Cancer Boys !
Cheers Big Jim and all those that supported us from the other counties .
A Trophy with big dosh to boost the result , I'm over the moon and I ain't got sky !!
MOM + tough call , MOday = Typhoon ,
Lots of years of nothing and now this , you guys make me want to cry and I'm a 48 year old man !!
Cheers BBC London for the coverage and up the Breast Cancer Boys !
What a fabulous day of cricket! I'm very glad I got to hear most of it on my journey...especially the victory at the end! All Hail the Boys in Pink!
A richly deserved trophy
Its been a real team effort of which everyone has played their part - Top class effort
Its been a real team effort of which everyone has played their part - Top class effort
Chris , glad to hear you finished your "epic" trip in time to hear us win .
Congratulations on your win from a Somerset supporter.
The link to my Photos on Photobucket - [s1152.photobucket.com]
The link to my Photos on Photobucket - [s1152.photobucket.com] Cheers to The Big Pink Machine!!
Couldn't be happier -- had a moment out shouting in the backyard while having a victory lap. Got all of the neighborhood dogs barking in celebration for Middlesex!!
If all goes well, we'll all have a meet up in Antigua.
Best to all -- Jordan
Couldn't be happier -- had a moment out shouting in the backyard while having a victory lap. Got all of the neighborhood dogs barking in celebration for Middlesex!!
If all goes well, we'll all have a meet up in Antigua.
Best to all -- Jordan
Amazing win, superb effort, what a nerve jangler!
I'm almost lost for words.
I guess Daisy's interest in the day ensured a last over or even last ball finish.
The tension at the end was almost unbearable, but the joy at achieving the result made up for all that.
Like Diamond, I feel almost embarassed at my age getting so totally into a game, but the truth of the matter is that team sent us through the gamut of emotions and came up trumps in the end.
It was a classic final.
What a great day for Middlesex. The positive impact of that success should serve the club well for a long time to come.
I guess Daisy's interest in the day ensured a last over or even last ball finish.
The tension at the end was almost unbearable, but the joy at achieving the result made up for all that.
Like Diamond, I feel almost embarassed at my age getting so totally into a game, but the truth of the matter is that team sent us through the gamut of emotions and came up trumps in the end.
It was a classic final.
What a great day for Middlesex. The positive impact of that success should serve the club well for a long time to come.
As I have always said I just love 20/20. Well done Toby, Ed and the boys.
What a game.
What a performance.
Fifteen years of hurt
Never stopped me dreaming.
What a performance.
Fifteen years of hurt
Never stopped me dreaming.
Unbelievable finish... should go down as one of the all-time great finals. 15 years was a long time to wait for one of the main trophies... but what a way to end the drought.
Well done lads, quality stuff.
Well done lads, quality stuff.
I would rather have promotion.
Absolutely brilliant.
WELL PLAYED MIDDLESEX.
(And Ed the Duck, I'd much rather Middlesex had the �2.7million, with which we can invest for future Championship campaigns)
WELL PLAYED MIDDLESEX.
(And Ed the Duck, I'd much rather Middlesex had the �2.7million, with which we can invest for future Championship campaigns)
I don't think anything I write can do justice to that, but I'll do my best.
It won't be tonight though.
It won't be tonight though.
Just got home and totally exhausted.
Daisy was right, it was me shown when Tyron got his 50. I had a few texts from people watching saying they saw me. I'm just please nobody's TV screens seemed to have cracked...
I'm off to watch that last over now!
Daisy was right, it was me shown when Tyron got his 50. I had a few texts from people watching saying they saw me. I'm just please nobody's TV screens seemed to have cracked...
I'm off to watch that last over now!
Back home now.
Currently all I can share with you Is Yeeees! One of my best sporting occasions. More relatively articulate details to follow once I recover.
Champions league I'm aving a larf.
Barmy Kev
I'm only here for the tele
Currently all I can share with you Is Yeeees! One of my best sporting occasions. More relatively articulate details to follow once I recover.
Champions league I'm aving a larf.
Barmy Kev
I'm only here for the tele
2:17am - Just arrived home as well. So tired, yet so happy... I just cannot believe this tournament!
1) Group Stage: 8 wins out of 10 in a format in which consistant winning is extremely difficult.
2) That QF...
3) Semi: Coming up against that Durham side and making them look very poor.
4) Final: Winning with Kent needing four of the last two balls and then a four from the last with two DOTS!!! Emma couldn't watch the last three balls.
5) Finals Day: Our batsman were amazing!!!
6) T20 Cup 2008: Played 13, Won 11.
7) T20 Cup History: Poor record until the year when Champions League and Standford Super Series places are on the line and decide that we should probably win it this time!!
I have to say, we seemed to be easily the best attended club at the ground. So many pink shirts, excellent atmosphere!
And of course, great to meet Kev and David on the day as well!
Too tired to write anymore now. All I have left for today is a little bit of Middlesex Season 2017 on international cricket captain until I actually fall asleep!
MIDDLE, MIDDLE, MIDDLE!
1) Group Stage: 8 wins out of 10 in a format in which consistant winning is extremely difficult.
2) That QF...
3) Semi: Coming up against that Durham side and making them look very poor.
4) Final: Winning with Kent needing four of the last two balls and then a four from the last with two DOTS!!! Emma couldn't watch the last three balls.
5) Finals Day: Our batsman were amazing!!!
6) T20 Cup 2008: Played 13, Won 11.
7) T20 Cup History: Poor record until the year when Champions League and Standford Super Series places are on the line and decide that we should probably win it this time!!
I have to say, we seemed to be easily the best attended club at the ground. So many pink shirts, excellent atmosphere!
And of course, great to meet Kev and David on the day as well!
Too tired to write anymore now. All I have left for today is a little bit of Middlesex Season 2017 on international cricket captain until I actually fall asleep!
MIDDLE, MIDDLE, MIDDLE!
Many thanks to our friends from other counties for your kind words on this thread.
Thanks also to those of you who sent in messages for the interactive report during the build up and the semi-final.
I find it touching to see that so many MTWD regulars wanted to post messages here on returning from The Rose Bowl before you crashed out!
Thanks also to those of you who sent in messages for the interactive report during the build up and the semi-final.
I find it touching to see that so many MTWD regulars wanted to post messages here on returning from The Rose Bowl before you crashed out!
Devotion to duty by our folks who attended the Finals Day is noted.
02.17 hrs home Garath! What did you do,walk ??
Terrific stuff on the field and in cyberspace yesterday ,now if only my head would stop spinning I could get on with the day .
I think I'll wear my pink top to Tesco's this morning .
Pink and Proud , even more proud than usual today though,well played all of you .
02.17 hrs home Garath! What did you do,walk ??
Terrific stuff on the field and in cyberspace yesterday ,now if only my head would stop spinning I could get on with the day .
I think I'll wear my pink top to Tesco's this morning .
Pink and Proud , even more proud than usual today though,well played all of you .
I have been following Middlesex for nearly 50 years and what a proud moment. We had some heroic performances yesterday and some breathtaking flashes of brilliance. Shah`s innings was superb and Henderson`s last two dot balls were unbelievable but a special mention for Nannes who just managed to stop Malan`s overthrow from crossing the boundary in the last over by throwing himself at the ball.
Yesterdays win has made up for all the heartbreak over the last decade or so and with so many young players coming through lets hope we can build on this for the future.
Yesterdays win has made up for all the heartbreak over the last decade or so and with so many young players coming through lets hope we can build on this for the future.
Just fantastic, brilliant, amazing - a superb day at a magnificent ground. And boy did we turn it pink! Well done to everyone, players and supporters alike!!!!
As a Durham fan, many congratulations on yesterday. You played some brilliant cricket and deserved both the victory over us and the final itself.
What a day! Incredible finish, thought we had blown it when it was down to 6 needed off the last 3.
And major credit due to a couple of players who have attracted some flak on here of late, Mssrs Shah and Joyce. No question that our big players really stood up to be counted on the day.
And major credit due to a couple of players who have attracted some flak on here of late, Mssrs Shah and Joyce. No question that our big players really stood up to be counted on the day.
What a wonderful, wonderful day. And who, at the start of the season, would have thought we could get so enthralled by 20/20 cricket?
Domestic duties meant that the only innings I saw live was Durham's. Caught most of the Middx reply on TalkSport radio (please, never again) chauffeuring little DHs around town. Home, briefly, in time to re-wind Sky+ and watch Henderson biffing Harmison.
More chauffeuring - little DHs doing their bit to add to global warming - then home again, phone off, pc's closed and watching the game as live. Stunning batting by Henderson and particularly Shah. Felt we might pay for slightly weak end to innings, but despite a marvellous Kent effort, our bowlers held their nerve. By the time I finished watching, it was well past midnight, the red wine had mysteriously evaporated, and neighbours report hearing a strange howling noise breaking the silence of a NW London night.
What a finish too - stands comparison with those mid 80s finals against Essex and Kent - but in this case, the quality of cricket and excitement level was higher throughout the game.
Wonderful, wonderful stuff - let's hope this is just the start of a long period of Middx success.
Well done boys, you made us very very proud.
Domestic duties meant that the only innings I saw live was Durham's. Caught most of the Middx reply on TalkSport radio (please, never again) chauffeuring little DHs around town. Home, briefly, in time to re-wind Sky+ and watch Henderson biffing Harmison.
More chauffeuring - little DHs doing their bit to add to global warming - then home again, phone off, pc's closed and watching the game as live. Stunning batting by Henderson and particularly Shah. Felt we might pay for slightly weak end to innings, but despite a marvellous Kent effort, our bowlers held their nerve. By the time I finished watching, it was well past midnight, the red wine had mysteriously evaporated, and neighbours report hearing a strange howling noise breaking the silence of a NW London night.
What a finish too - stands comparison with those mid 80s finals against Essex and Kent - but in this case, the quality of cricket and excitement level was higher throughout the game.
Wonderful, wonderful stuff - let's hope this is just the start of a long period of Middx success.
Well done boys, you made us very very proud.
Match taped.
I can't bring myself to watch final again , in case we lose in final over this time. And those overthrows.
It has to be said the best feature was our support. Incredibly vocal, pink all over the place. Easily best supported team there.
This was a great advert for 20/20 cricket.
It has to be said morning after , that one of the best
days of my life.
Planning trip to Antigua
Barmy Kev
I'm only here for the tele
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2008:07:27:10:13:36 by BarmierKev.
I can't bring myself to watch final again , in case we lose in final over this time. And those overthrows.
It has to be said the best feature was our support. Incredibly vocal, pink all over the place. Easily best supported team there.
This was a great advert for 20/20 cricket.
It has to be said morning after , that one of the best
days of my life.
Planning trip to Antigua
Barmy Kev
I'm only here for the tele
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2008:07:27:10:13:36 by BarmierKev.
Quote:The Diamond ruled ok
Devotion to duty by our folks who attended the Finals Day is noted.
02.17 hrs home Garath! What did you do,walk ??
Partly, I'm afraid!! We stayed to celebrate for a good while after and then had a half hour walk back to the car (as there were unsuprisingly no available cabs) and about five minutes of that walk was along an A road with no pavement!! Had to then drop Emma off somewhere else, as she's going away for the week this morning and when I was half way back home, we realised that she forgot a debit card so I had to go back again!!
...I don't care!! It was all so worth it!!!
The support at the ground was so fantastic!! I overheard the Kent fan behind me say,
"This is like a Middlesex home game!".
And well done to everyone playing their part and making it so, it was brilliant!
We certainly picked the right year to do it!
Kev, you have wonderful taste in shorts!
Quote:GarethABlake
........
Kev, you have wonderful taste in shorts!
Gareth, I was with the details contained in your posting all the way, until you finally strayed into "too much information" territory. I feel a little queasy now, this morning.
I notice that the Official site are probably a little queasy also as they have put nothing up about our triumph yet
what a day!! absolutely wrecked....
got home at 3am!!
so many Middx fans, you were all brilliant... we didnt stop singing. THe East Upper was rocking....
so happy today.
got home at 3am!!
so many Middx fans, you were all brilliant... we didnt stop singing. THe East Upper was rocking....
so happy today.
Heartiest congratulations to all involved in our triumph.
The players who performed manfully throughout the tournament,and whose joy at the end was great to see.
It meant so much to all of them,and I,m not just reffering to the riches to come,their emotions demonstrated how much they care about the club.
It would be unfair to pick out individuals,for all have played their part along the way,and none shirked their responsibility at any time.
To the backroom staff who did so much to contribute to yesterday,and those players not involved who lent their support in every way.
To our much maligned committee who stood firm in the face of oppossition that may have distracted from our performance,and showed by their support and prescence yesterday how lucky we are to have them.
Lastly but of course not leastly to our wonderful band of supporters whose enthusiasm and dedication as well as their vocal support did much to encourage our boys to achieve that which few gave us any hope of.
I was amazed and astounded at all those who emerged yesterday as if from no where to cheer us on.
The PINK campaign has been a real triumph for all concerned,and in some way yesterday or win was just reward for all the effort that so many have put into that.
But my last word however is for Janet,who may be surprised to hear that after yesterday,our office staff may just not feel inclined to rush to work on a sunday morning,so as you can read all about it old girl.
However I,m sure they'll note your comments.
P.S.I hope I havn,t missed the Open-Topped bus parade through the streets of St.John's Wood today.
The players who performed manfully throughout the tournament,and whose joy at the end was great to see.
It meant so much to all of them,and I,m not just reffering to the riches to come,their emotions demonstrated how much they care about the club.
It would be unfair to pick out individuals,for all have played their part along the way,and none shirked their responsibility at any time.
To the backroom staff who did so much to contribute to yesterday,and those players not involved who lent their support in every way.
To our much maligned committee who stood firm in the face of oppossition that may have distracted from our performance,and showed by their support and prescence yesterday how lucky we are to have them.
Lastly but of course not leastly to our wonderful band of supporters whose enthusiasm and dedication as well as their vocal support did much to encourage our boys to achieve that which few gave us any hope of.
I was amazed and astounded at all those who emerged yesterday as if from no where to cheer us on.
The PINK campaign has been a real triumph for all concerned,and in some way yesterday or win was just reward for all the effort that so many have put into that.
But my last word however is for Janet,who may be surprised to hear that after yesterday,our office staff may just not feel inclined to rush to work on a sunday morning,so as you can read all about it old girl.
However I,m sure they'll note your comments.
P.S.I hope I havn,t missed the Open-Topped bus parade through the streets of St.John's Wood today.
Just got in. haah stayed down the night hotel was rocking i must say like the ground. Myself n barmykev leading it all the way.
was drinking in hotel till 4am singing was magic.
i cant describe it i am also on tv ha.
Planning trip to antigua
was drinking in hotel till 4am singing was magic.
i cant describe it i am also on tv ha.
Planning trip to antigua
I'm overjoyed to have been proved wrong about the loyalties of Shah and Joyce. This cup victory is perhaps the sweetest taste of triumph for the club since 1976 - and far more lucrative. Nigel Haig and I are leaping up and down in our graves in sheer ecstasy. Most unbecoming, but we don't really care. Congratulations and thanks to all the players.
To get back to yesterday.How did Durham get it so wrong,strong favourites to go through and they bottled it completely.
Their supporters are not happy,and neither would we be in the same circumstances.
We were well matched with Kent in the Final,and though we maintained the upper hand most of the time,it was not by much,with three balls to go we looked spent,but in the end we held our nerve better than they did.
Their supporters are not happy,and neither would we be in the same circumstances.
We were well matched with Kent in the Final,and though we maintained the upper hand most of the time,it was not by much,with three balls to go we looked spent,but in the end we held our nerve better than they did.
[quote Tommy Enthoven]I'm overjoyed to have been proved wrong about the loyalties of Shah and Joyce.
I'm not sure there is any proof about loyalties. Both are professionals and performed to their best abilities yesterday. In reality their highest loyalty is to themelves, their families and their careers. I hope they will stay at Middlesex but my best wishes go with them if they do not.
I'm not sure there is any proof about loyalties. Both are professionals and performed to their best abilities yesterday. In reality their highest loyalty is to themelves, their families and their careers. I hope they will stay at Middlesex but my best wishes go with them if they do not.
Ace will probably be in Antigua,but England will have first choice of him for the game against The West Indies,which would likely exclude him from our match against Trinidad & Tobago.
[quote The Diamond ruled ok]
Had to suffer the idiots at TalkFootball on the radio "Andy Murtagh " "Billy god all ming" , no idea where or who the fielders were . /quote]
According to Radio 5 Live (I think) Ben Scott was having a busy day because he weas keeping for Durham as well. I wonder if the commentator would have done if Mr Scott had actually been required to bat in that match.
Talking of "did not bat", I see Messrs Kartik, Nannes, Finn and Burton were not required to do so at any stage, which must say something. Also none of our bowlers went for more than 8 an over across the competition as a whole, even Dawid Malan after that over enabling Sorry to make a bit of game of it at The Hoval. Statistics don't prove a lot, but they do show something here, tnat everybody, yes everybody, played their part.
Adelaide
Had to suffer the idiots at TalkFootball on the radio "Andy Murtagh " "Billy god all ming" , no idea where or who the fielders were . /quote]
According to Radio 5 Live (I think) Ben Scott was having a busy day because he weas keeping for Durham as well. I wonder if the commentator would have done if Mr Scott had actually been required to bat in that match.
Talking of "did not bat", I see Messrs Kartik, Nannes, Finn and Burton were not required to do so at any stage, which must say something. Also none of our bowlers went for more than 8 an over across the competition as a whole, even Dawid Malan after that over enabling Sorry to make a bit of game of it at The Hoval. Statistics don't prove a lot, but they do show something here, tnat everybody, yes everybody, played their part.
Adelaide
Tommy, your distant support is an object lesson to us all. Out of interest, do some of our older players - Plum, Stoddy etc - follow the 20/20, or do they prefer to rest in peace?
Either way, I trust you spent appropriate time mocking Percy for their faux triumph in the Mascot Race.
Take it easy (not that you have much choice)...
Either way, I trust you spent appropriate time mocking Percy for their faux triumph in the Mascot Race.
Take it easy (not that you have much choice)...
After the joy of yesterday comes all the political / financial rubbish concerning the Champions League.
Champions League to be held in India
English participation down to ECB agreeing to BCCI demands on ICL players and revenue split.
Then again
Champions League must be in England
ICC member suggests tournament should be held in England in September.
Or maybe
Engliish board to have its own Champions League
Arab investors on board. Tournament to be held in Abu Dhabi in October.
What a mess.
Champions League to be held in India
English participation down to ECB agreeing to BCCI demands on ICL players and revenue split.
Then again
Champions League must be in England
ICC member suggests tournament should be held in England in September.
Or maybe
Engliish board to have its own Champions League
Arab investors on board. Tournament to be held in Abu Dhabi in October.
What a mess.
That's a pretty large trophy for a small (overs) competition.
Anyone at the club remember where the key to the trophy cabinet is ?
Anyone at the club remember where the key to the trophy cabinet is ?
Two moments for me
Tyron Henderson. Laughs with Shaggy jsut before the final over. What a man.
The Diggler saving 2 runs from AC's overthrow. What a man.
I am so hungover and so happy I can't even bebtoheerd arguing with Loverboy.
Tyron Henderson. Laughs with Shaggy jsut before the final over. What a man.
The Diggler saving 2 runs from AC's overthrow. What a man.
I am so hungover and so happy I can't even bebtoheerd arguing with Loverboy.
First chance I've had to post since Saturday. What a fantastic day out-the win was never in any doubt! A long wait for a trophy and me and the missus were there to enjoy it. She now thinks that all cricket days are like that! I echo the earlier sentiment about the ashes win-except this was more special as it was 'our' team. I'm still excited thinking about that final over and the sheer relief when we won, after the sinking feeling after the overthrows. What a day, what a win, what a team. Put that in your pipe prof Silverman and smoke it!
Quote:loverboy
To get back to yesterday.How did Durham get it so wrong,strong favourites to go through and they bottled it completely.
Their supporters are not happy,and neither would we be in the same circumstances.
You're not wrong.
First of all congratulations to you all. If we couldn't have won it than I'm delighted it was Middlesex who did. Apart from being my county of residence, it's nice to see the trophies spread around a bit. Kent can have the FP Trophy - we've had enough of it
After that final and the way Henderson stayed so unbelievably calm at the death, you deserved it.
But obviously I was deeply disappointed (and puzzled) at Durham's performance. We never really came out of the blocks, and we were an embarrassment to an otherwise excellent day.
Most of us are livid with Chanderpaul. I suspect the rest of the team were, too. He never at any stage changed gear or showed any ability to adapt to the circumstances. Just carried on as if this was a 4 or 5 day game and his job was to get a half century. No sense of urgency, no quick runs or hurried seconds.
It's clear that Chanders is not a Twenty20 player. I find it hard to accept that a batsman as experienced as him couldn't see the obvious - that he needed to throw his bat at everything and if he got out, no great loss. We really should have had Pollock on earlier.
For someone who didn't bowl or bat, Benkenstein had a poor day, and made several selection errors. You had Henderson and Shah at 3 & 4. Our equivalents were Pollock, Breese and Plunkett and they were down to bat at 7, 8 and 9. There were other captaincy mistakes - persevering with Harmy and not giving Colly (who I'm convinced would have taken wickets) the ball. But ultimately, the buck should stop at Chanders, who just seemed to act as if it wasn't an important enough game to put much effort in.
I left after our game. I was so confident we'd win after the week you'd had that it never occurred to me that I may decide not stay on after the semis. But I just couldn't face watching the final surrounded by supporters of the winning teams. We got home just in time for the start of the TV coverage of what was an amazing final between 2 teams who really showed us how it should be done.
Once again, well done to Middlesex. Hopefully you'll get promoted to LVCC Div.1,too, and we can meet next year as reigning Champions of our respective divisions
Dynamo - all of us old stagers, well, the dilettantes among us at any rate, all absolutely adore the 20/20. It's a great shame we missed out. Had we played it in the old days,we would have had time to fortify ourselves with two bottles of claret each at lunch, instead of the customary one, and perhaps a glass of port or madeira as well. One of our later stalwarts, Gatting, MW, would have tucked into it splendidly too.
Durham paid the price for trying to be too clever with their overseas signings. Bring in a player for the County Championship, you cant just then just plonk them into a Twenty20 team they�ve not played in before and expect the best? I hope Durham realise this now. Twenty20 has moved on � Middlesex have realised this. I'm still feeling guilty for wanting Will Smith to run out Shiv, and cheering with the other Durham fans in the row when Chanders got out! [Two of whom had paid 400 quid each for the privilege of having to arrange last minute flights!] Durham showed no sign of trying to steal 2 runs at any stage.
Durham should keep more faith with its promising local talent, which may have felt more inclined to hit out � and �got out� perhaps � but I would rather have seen Stoneman, Baby Harmy, or Muchell or indeed Benks and Breese [who were there!] go down blazing - to the dismal display on offer on Saturday. I think it just made for a difficult situation for Benks. There were no runs to play with and I�ve seen it written Benks felt Hendo would not be able to play Big Steves� pace of 92mph, he got it wrong and it was too late, over.
But that takes away the fact that Middlesex have been a supreme Twenty20 team for two years [the weather did for them last year]. This season no opposition made big scores against them. Murtagh is underrated by most and Kartik and Udal [on practically his home turf] were always going to be difficult, especially on a sunny day. It seemed Durham played most of their run up matches in the rain � and this was a hot sunny southern pitch! They can�t play quality spin at the best of times. I was impressed Kent got so close. It was a truly fantastic finals match!
At the start of the season I think I predicted Middlesex would win this years Twenty20 cup � who else did? [I�m getting all the rest horribly wrong!] - but I never saw them as underdogs. And Middlesex did look good in that pink strip with the cup! They more than deserved their win! It would be nice to see them in the first division too.
Durham should keep more faith with its promising local talent, which may have felt more inclined to hit out � and �got out� perhaps � but I would rather have seen Stoneman, Baby Harmy, or Muchell or indeed Benks and Breese [who were there!] go down blazing - to the dismal display on offer on Saturday. I think it just made for a difficult situation for Benks. There were no runs to play with and I�ve seen it written Benks felt Hendo would not be able to play Big Steves� pace of 92mph, he got it wrong and it was too late, over.
But that takes away the fact that Middlesex have been a supreme Twenty20 team for two years [the weather did for them last year]. This season no opposition made big scores against them. Murtagh is underrated by most and Kartik and Udal [on practically his home turf] were always going to be difficult, especially on a sunny day. It seemed Durham played most of their run up matches in the rain � and this was a hot sunny southern pitch! They can�t play quality spin at the best of times. I was impressed Kent got so close. It was a truly fantastic finals match!
At the start of the season I think I predicted Middlesex would win this years Twenty20 cup � who else did? [I�m getting all the rest horribly wrong!] - but I never saw them as underdogs. And Middlesex did look good in that pink strip with the cup! They more than deserved their win! It would be nice to see them in the first division too.
Hear hear to many of the points on this thread. And once again many thanks to our friends who support other counties for your kind words.
You make some especially salient points, 668. And it must be noisy and smelly living next door to old 666, by all accounts - amazed you can concentrate on your wise words.
You make some especially salient points, 668. And it must be noisy and smelly living next door to old 666, by all accounts - amazed you can concentrate on your wise words.
668's real problem is parking in the street when the four horsemen pop by to visit his neighbour.
I'd like to see the traffic warden try to ticket/clamp/tow those four critters, as they certainly don't have residents' parking permits.
Quote:668neighbourofthebeast
At the start of the season I think I predicted Middlesex would win this years Twenty20 cup � who else did?
I'd like to refer you to my post on the 10th of June in our MTWD Twenty20 poll.
Quote:GarethABlake
In its short time, Twenty20 has shown us that teams have a much more even chance of winning compared to older forms of the game and upsets have certainly not been rare. Given this and Middlesex's lack of winning since the cup began, this year must be our year!!
Good call, Gareth. Which lottery numbers would you recommend for next week?
That's a very large trumpet you are blowing there Garath , hope they let you into the Rose Bowl with it on Saturday !
Fair play to you ,you called it right when many blanched or scoffed at your belief.
Fair play to you ,you called it right when many blanched or scoffed at your belief.
I think I�d better donate those upcoming Lottery winnings to Tyron!!
You mentioned belief, Diamond. Seriously I would have scoffed at my comments as well even with its twisted and magical Twenty20 logic! However the team this year seemed to have it in abundance. Not at all questioning Kent's desire, Kemp, Key, Denly etc... all did so well, especially in the chase of our target, but something carried us over the edge and past Kent by a whisker in a battle that went just about as close as it could.
Ged, in a sense you're right to mention the lottery, the tournament and the format has proved to be somewhat of one itself; part of its appeal as I've mentioned several times before. But this year, I feel we deserved it. To win it, great numbers of things certainly do have to go your way; but the performances: Belief and Desire are the words that comes to mind, the reason in my opinion that we overcame, turned around and won out in uncertain situations; it is a real credit to our players in a season that I'm sure will not be forgotten by anyone here.
You mentioned belief, Diamond. Seriously I would have scoffed at my comments as well even with its twisted and magical Twenty20 logic! However the team this year seemed to have it in abundance. Not at all questioning Kent's desire, Kemp, Key, Denly etc... all did so well, especially in the chase of our target, but something carried us over the edge and past Kent by a whisker in a battle that went just about as close as it could.
Ged, in a sense you're right to mention the lottery, the tournament and the format has proved to be somewhat of one itself; part of its appeal as I've mentioned several times before. But this year, I feel we deserved it. To win it, great numbers of things certainly do have to go your way; but the performances: Belief and Desire are the words that comes to mind, the reason in my opinion that we overcame, turned around and won out in uncertain situations; it is a real credit to our players in a season that I'm sure will not be forgotten by anyone here.
seaxe man said we would win and put a tenner on us at 20/1 good bit of business!
My comment on the lottery was facetious, Gareth, based on the notion that, he who states his predictive opinion often enough will probably be able to demonstrate such fine examples of his predictive ability; while his detractors will probably also be able to point out examples of the opposite! Good on you for coming off the fence and stating opinions like that on the board; whether they end up being right or not.
I certainly do not think we won by virtue of luck - that was a thoroughly well planned and well executed campaign, based on some canny signings, a formula that maximised our chances for the campaign and some very smart tactical thinking along the way.
However, anyone but the most one-eyed supporter would agree that there is some element of luck as well as supreme skill in a successful Twenty20 campaign. We were one unplayable ball (to Malan early in his innings) away from the mire at the Oval, for example. Had Mahmood held on to the Blacksmith's catch in the final when our hero was only on 9 or 10, things might have been different on Saturday also.
But, as they say, you make your own luck in cricket. It surely wasn't mere luck that took us to that final with more wins that any other side in the tourny. Middlesex played consistently excellent Twenty20 cricket throughout the 2008 campaign.
And you make your own luck to some extent when you make predictions from a knowledgeable and canny perspective. So well done to you too, Gareth, for coming good this time.
I certainly do not think we won by virtue of luck - that was a thoroughly well planned and well executed campaign, based on some canny signings, a formula that maximised our chances for the campaign and some very smart tactical thinking along the way.
However, anyone but the most one-eyed supporter would agree that there is some element of luck as well as supreme skill in a successful Twenty20 campaign. We were one unplayable ball (to Malan early in his innings) away from the mire at the Oval, for example. Had Mahmood held on to the Blacksmith's catch in the final when our hero was only on 9 or 10, things might have been different on Saturday also.
But, as they say, you make your own luck in cricket. It surely wasn't mere luck that took us to that final with more wins that any other side in the tourny. Middlesex played consistently excellent Twenty20 cricket throughout the 2008 campaign.
And you make your own luck to some extent when you make predictions from a knowledgeable and canny perspective. So well done to you too, Gareth, for coming good this time.
Here is King Cricket''s take on the day:
King Cricket on Finals Day
And here is a blog found by my bot:
A Blog found by my bot
King Cricket on Finals Day
And here is a blog found by my bot:
A Blog found by my bot
On the luck point I am convinced that Freddie Flintoff was about to take that game away from us but he hit the worst ball he faced to the only guy on the boundary.
There is an element of thinking perhaps it is your year when those things happen Similarly in the final Mahmood regretted his drop but Joyce found redemption for his drop not long afterwards. No matter what way the small things add up we were the best team throughout. We executed the disciplines in almost very game we played. You could see early on when Hederson was interviewed and said we had a simple plan 3 seamers two spinners everyone knows what they are doing. We didn't deviate much, we had a largely settled team and as Gareth A says we had belief and desire.
Perhaps the easiest way to look at it is that God wore pink.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2008:07:29:08:56:37 by Celtic Crusader.
There is an element of thinking perhaps it is your year when those things happen Similarly in the final Mahmood regretted his drop but Joyce found redemption for his drop not long afterwards. No matter what way the small things add up we were the best team throughout. We executed the disciplines in almost very game we played. You could see early on when Hederson was interviewed and said we had a simple plan 3 seamers two spinners everyone knows what they are doing. We didn't deviate much, we had a largely settled team and as Gareth A says we had belief and desire.
Perhaps the easiest way to look at it is that God wore pink.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2008:07:29:08:56:37 by Celtic Crusader.
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