st_brendy wrote:captaincolly wrote:st_brendy wrote:It would be interesting if Middlesex were, say, 80-8 and asked the umpires if a declaration at that point would be classed as an extraordinary declaration (and hence a likely points deduction).
A bit like Essex against us last week (albeit different circumstances), you could argue that Middlesex's best chances from winning in that position would be to FO. And declaring at that point would just about allow such a FO to happen, if Somerset so wished. Would the umpires accept that argument, and allow the declaration (thus securing Middlesex's survival), or dismiss the argument.
That would be very interesting. I think in those circumstances the umpires would have to seek advice from the ECB before making a decision.
Just imagine the reaction of Somerset fans if it was allowed. Last season they felt that Middlesex stole the title from them, now they steal survival from them.
(Personally I wouldn't feel sorry for them. Whilst I'm not against utilising home advantage, I'm not going to have any sympathy when it ultimately doesn't get you what you want)
I agree. Picking 3 spinners and opening the bowling with one of them is a fair indication of what they're up to and if the decision backfires it is a risk they themselves have taken.
