Sorry, Middlesex got their just desserts

I WATCHED every county that played Lancashire and two stand out. Warwickshire’s appearance on the second morning was a surprise as it was pension day and left the skipper with the challenge of hiding about seven players in the field.

Middlesex eventually got their just desserts with no desire to get on with it. Do Jones, Murtagh and Harris really need a combined run up of 120yards? A bowling change took 160 seconds incorporating field changes, three practice bowls to midon, a vigorous ball polish and a few stretches.The 12th man appeared repeatedly to promote towels, drinks, pills and potions.

Present-day umpires migrate 50 yards to square leg, moving at a loitering pace. A journey repeated after every over. Stand 20 yards nearer, keep the game moving. After changing ends, once the keeper is ready the umpire should signal play, the batsman should be ready.

The game needs to speed up to minimise draws. GRAHAM SHAW

Bolton