LVCC: Gloucestershire 552 beat Kent 264 & 265 by an innings and 23 runs (PTS: Glos 22, Kent 4)
Gloucestershire completed a memorable win over the champions Kent inside three days at Bristol.
A huge victory margin was just reward for some excellent cricket and demonstrated what might have been this season as they picked up maximum points for the second successive home match. 22 points was not enough to gain promotion however, as Northamptonshire claimed victory to move out of reach.
The West country sunshine provided the ideal backdrop for a quality performance; the batting atoning for their feeble efforts at Beckenham to destroy the champions. But it was again the bowling today that wrapped up the win and demonstrated why it is the best attack in the division.
The wickets again spread around, it was Steve Kirby that set the ball rolling with a ripping delivery that flattened Rob Key's stumps; his 64th wicket of the season would come when castling Mat Coles later in proceedings. But pure determination from Kirby blasted away a rapid opening stand of 101.
Hamish Marshall again got amongst the wickets. The New Zealander's usefulness with the ball again on display as he produced two breakthroughs: enticing Darren Stevens into a loose drive to be caught behind, then nipping one back into Justin Kemp as he played on.
Jon Lewis and Anthony Ireland claimed two wickets each - the victims spread around demonstrating how well this attack has performed as a unit this year; Glos have claimed more bowling points than any other side in the division.
The sun sets on another championship season, but Glos can be proud of their achievements. Although the batting has struggled, they have competed in all matches and have been a pleasure to watch; this final victory a testament to how far they have come in a year and supporters can be extremely encouraged for next season.
Official report: www.gloscricketradio.co.uk
I agree with all that. Last year was my first as a life member, and it was a total disaster. This season we have at least competed and, at times, have been a pleasure to watch.
ReplyDeleteIn particular, I would single out Steve Kirby as most improved player. Sad to say, as a Second Division player and, worse, a Gloucestershire team member, he probably won't get a look in at the top table.
Well done, the Glos. Next year, promotion...
A great win today and a great wqay to finish the season!
ReplyDeleteKudos must go to the batsmen in particular Franklin, Adshead and Marshall.
A few tweaks over the winter, keep this squad together and this is a season that we can really build upon!
Forgot to add, Kirby and Lewis this year. Kirby especially- both outstanding with the ball this season.
ReplyDeleteA good season for us, especially in this form of the game; a third position would be just rewards. We just need to tighten up the top-order batting a bit, and promotion next season should be attainable. Also good news that Franklin has resigned for an other season; he has been very good.
ReplyDeleteIn the one-day format, it's been more of a mixed bag. It was greta to get to the semi's of the FP trophy, but this is overshadowed by some bad performances in the T20 and our likely relegation from the P40 league.
Finally, I'd like to say thanks to snowy for amintaining this blog, and to the team behind Glos cricket radio for providing some excellent coverage.