Leicestershire’s cricketers delivered a sporting message to their pals at Glamorgan today by winning the toss at Cardiff and bowling first – and doing so convincingly. In 1925, that choice was a fortune! Their five-man seam attack worked doggedly to maintain the advantage that swing and seam movement in the conditions provided, bowling Glamorgan out for a meagre 229.
Ian Holland was Leicestershire’s man of the moment, taking the three crucial wickets to define the innings. He accounted for Kiran Carlson as well, rattling his stumps and then – such was his menace – pinning Colin Ingram lbw within the space of just four overs. Holland’s impressive bowling figures of 3 for 40 underscored his effectiveness as he played a crucial role in dismantling Glamorgan’s batting lineup.
The Foxes particularly set loose a death-over bowling unit that was withering. Scriven made an early mark too, trapping Sam Northeast lbw for a paltry 17 runs. He eventually reclaimed the edge of Byrom’s bat, the latter helping himself to a few boundaries and 41 runs before his dismissal. Their seamers’ ability to create movement as well as their relentless pressure on the Glamorgan batters was clear from the outset in the innings.
After a tough opening to the innings, Cooke didn’t let that stop him, scoring 53 runs with ninth-wicket partner Shoaib Bashir. Though their work left Glamorgan with only a below par total on the board, Leicestershire undoubtedly continued to hold all of the aces.
Leicestershire were dealt an early blow when opener Rishi Patel was ruled out with a thumb injury. In retaliation, Holland formed the other wing with Sol Budinger to open the season, showcasing his adaptability and willingness to do anything it takes for this team. When they have 1st Innings to come Leicestershire currently 164 runs behind Glamorgan with 9 wickets in hand.
“We’re happy with how the day went and we’re in a pretty reasonable position in the game. Hopefully we can bat well and get our noses in front.” – Ian Holland
In further remarks, Holland noted the favorable conditions for bowling.
“There was movement early, it did seam around with the Duke ball, but the wicket here usually plays better as the sun hits it so it was nice to bowl them out.” – Ian Holland
Looking ahead, Leicestershire will assess Patel’s injury situation.
“We’ll assess Rishi’s injury and fingers crossed he’s not out for too long.” – Ian Holland
Leave a Reply