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[t2ylo]

I'd be interested to understand the rationale for calling it rubbish, given that ECB pitch inspectors practically live there 😂

Pet Hate Alert.

Why do the green tops on which Darren Stevens (other skilful medium pacers are available) takes a bag full and the games over in 2 days never get a such remarks?

Surely they are waaay more damaging to the development of the national side

[alba caerulea]

@Manormanic - I accept that Taunton is more favourable to spin than Headingley. But how do you explain the 10 run gap in Test averages?

Rashid isnt unpopular at Yorkshire for the same reason as Azeem Rafiq is he?

[Manormanic]

Pet Hate Alert.

Why do the green tops on which Darren Stevens (other skilful medium pacers are available) takes a bag full and the games over in 2 days never get a such remarks?

Surely they are waaay more damaging to the development of the national side

Could not agree more (with the caveat that some of the early season ones are somewhat unavoidable) - if the pitches are deliberately prepared that way, there should definitely be sanctions.

[Manormanic]

Rashid isnt unpopular at Yorkshire for the same reason as Azeem Rafiq is he?

Actually, I find that quite offensive.

Rafiq, for the record, was well liked by Yorkshire fans, he was a wholehearted player who always gave his best.

Rashid has... shall we say a patcher record with the fans, largely because he has often seemed less than fully committed. Perhaps the best example was the 2016 Championship finale at Lords, when Root and Bairstow were "rested" by Strauss, much against their own wishes. The ECB didn't rest Dilly... but he opted out, citing tiredness, despite having hardly played. It is well known that he has no interest in playing unless there are TV cameras present.

[jonny77]

Rashid isnt unpopular at Yorkshire for the same reason as Azeem Rafiq is he?
[/quote]

Wow! I hope I've misinterpreted this one? @Manormanic
 stated he was unpopular with Yorkshire fans, so are you insinuating the Yorkshire fans have a issue with racism rather than the club?

[billyb]

I think we'll be playing against Embuldeniya for many years to come.

[rickjames]

Rooty's switch hit was absolutely glorious

[billyb]

Root is so good!

Jeez, the young guns are not having a good time in this match. Sibley, Crawley & Lawrence all out for 5 or less.

Feeling less confident of our chances in India, though I'll keep the faith.

[alba caerulea]

Actually, I find that quite offensive.

Rafiq, for the record, was well liked by Yorkshire fans, he was a wholehearted player who always gave his best.

Rashid has... shall we say a patcher record with the fans, largely because he has often seemed less than fully committed. Perhaps the best example was the 2016 Championship finale at Lords, when Root and Bairstow were "rested" by Strauss, much against their own wishes. The ECB didn't rest Dilly... but he opted out, citing tiredness, despite having hardly played. It is well known that he has no interest in playing unless there are TV cameras present.

Thats fine you are allowed to feel offended. Its a subject that does offend.

But what I actually meant was - Is he unpopular because he has blown the whistle alongside Rafeeq? Ive read from various sources (cricinfo, social media) that Rafeeq has faced more abuse since he brought these allegations to light. Im assuming thats from supporters/general public rather than employees of the club. Maybe Im wrong to assume that but it beggars belief if club officials have continued the racism whilst they are under enquiry.

I find it hard to believe that two spinners, both with Pakistani backgrounds, played in the same era and team. One has experienced racism and one hasn't.

Back to the subject of England spinners - you were telling me why Rashid is better despite the huge gap in average?

[billyb]

Does anyone else remember when Boycott, Vaughan and co would criticise England players for playing the sweep against spinners because it was too high risk, and then go nuts when they got out playing it?

Look at Root now! A master of it.

How times change!

[ppccopener]

Yes definatley, Thorpe in the sub continent,Gooch,KP all swept really well.Root has it mastered and could be the best of the lot.

His hundred is a pretty quick one by balls faced, you need all scoring options to score that quickly. If you can't play it I guess the fielding side can set straight positions cutting down options so the scoring rate goes down and you're stuck patting back maidens pretty regular.

It was Gatting  that was panned for playing a reverse sweep he got out to in a semi or final WC.
Think that was 1986 maybe or around there.

The one day game def has brought better scoring rates to tests nowadays

[thegowerwaft]

Gatting's brain fade:

https://scroll.in/field/923230/world-cup-moments-when-mike-gatting-suffered-a-brain-fade-to-hand-australia-the-1987-final

[alexhilly1492]

Not sure I agree with that, ball looked like it rolled up the boot after the ground to me,

But hard to tell given short leg was in the way, would like to see a better angle if possible

[rickjames]

Nah, looks like bat to boot to me

[alexhilly1492]

Yeah just seen it again, definitely hit boot front view is clearest