Post by glosexile on Jul 18, 2017 9:33:46 GMT
My view on Sussex's one point as "lucky" is based on the 32 T20 matches to date. Only one game this season has been won by less than 150 runs (Leicestershire v Warwickshire last weekend with a Leic score of 147). The average winning runs has been around 180.
I remember in 'ye old days' when 150 was viewed as a competitive score. Today, it is between 180 and 190 runs due to bigger and better bats; batsmen with stronger arms and wrists; and far more county experience helped by those who regularly play in the IPL and BBL.
Therefore, a score by Sussex of 156 was not only well below par for the competition but given the previous opposition scores of 188 (Hants) and 198 (Glamorgan) all the odds suggested Sussex would lose this game against Gloucestershire. Also, the previous two Glos scores were 182 v Middlesex and 156 to win against Kent off 19 overs.
Having said that, I appreciate your optimistic viewpoint re: the abandoned match.
Fully concur with your general observations regarding bat sizes, average scores in the modern era etc. Like many fans, I am always fascinated with the statistical side of cricket. However, I do feel that average scores can be quite misleading when considering a specific match, as it takes no account of prevailing conditions on the day, or the respective actual performances (good or bad).
Turning specifically to Cheltenham on Sunday:
I was not present on Sunday, but followed the action from a distance. This was supplemented by after match comments/report.
From the match report (on our official website)
'Timing of the ball was awkward'
Gareth Roderick (as onlooker, not playing) expressed the view that 156 for 8 was a good score, as the players left the pitch.
Reflecting post match, skipper Michael Klinger stated "It was pretty well balanced after Sussex got what was about a par score on a wicket that was a bit slower than the other ones here".
From your official website:
Sussex's Ross Taylor stated "I didn't think it was a good surface if I'm being honest. The ball was holding up all the time and it was difficult to find the boundary. In the circumstances, I thought we did pretty well to get that total".
Overall, I therefore standby my original conclusions, which I considered to be realistic. Matter of opinion and complete conjecture of course......we will never know what the actual outcome would of been.
(PS I would suspect that the match was played on a previously used wicket. A rather inevitable consequence of playing 5 matches at the Festival).
