Cover Up

London Leprechaun gives us a pictorial record of the only action of the day on Day 2 at Chelmsford. Barmy Kev gives us a view of the day mainly from the pub.

The rain started just as play was due to get underway but then stopped around the first interval.  So groundstaff got busy

They took the covers off

Removed the pipes

Umpires had a chat

Players got ready.

BUT THEN 

Back came the covers

And they speeded up

Lots more covers went on

And those of us not in the pub went home.

BARMY KEV HERE

I was very close to giving today a miss, given state of game and very dodgy weather according to the BBC . One week ago in sweltering conditions I was watching us on top against the Yorkies. This scenario  couldn't be more different.I really don't want to be accused of being a fair weathered fan so here I am at Chelmsford,

I arrive at Chelmsford in gloomy conditions with floodlights on as a reminder of what we did not have the benefit of when we needed them in the reverse fixture. I was not too upset for the Middlesex cause when just before the start at 2pm it drizzled surely a passing shower. No it peed down and was getting worse. 

I took refuge in the Lower Tom Pearce and met the Leprechaun who's app gave a positive indication that they will be some play today. Having messed up a Killer Sudoku with one block left, the rain was unrelenting I thought I would go for a random walk. I ended up with Rogers and Out at the just behind the ground pub Orange Tree. Meanwhile, the Leprechaun was providing updates. It was revealed at 4pm we are on defo start 4:25 76 overs, tea at 645 finish 930. 

Back to ground 4:24 it  peed down even more. Another pub seemed a better idea where Essex fans with sense of humour did not mind me saying rain has saved Essex again. It was clear not even the most optimistic Leprechaun app there was not going to be any play today. I discover around the country there is plenty of play elsewhere. 

On route home another pub visit we witness the unrare event of England losing a penalty shoot out.   Rogers and Out agrees to to play walking cricket warm up match at the Hive Friday.  We agree on a day of no cricket it has been fun and let's forget about us retaining the championship,