Monday, March 28th, 2016

Worcs Suffer First Day Wash-Out At Taunton Vale

Worcs Suffer First Day Wash-Out At Taunton Vale

Worcestershire were frustrated by the weather on day one of their two-day friendly with Somerset at Taunton Vale.

"Adverse weather conditions" had already meant the start time was put back from 11am to 2.30pm today.

But play was called off for the day because of a wet outfield and now the two teams hope to make a 10am start tomorrow if the weather improves.

The fixture had originally been scheduled to take place at the Cooper Associates County Ground.

Worcestershire were also on the wrong end of the elements during the early part of their tour of Abu Dhabi earlier this month although they were able to play on the final four days of the trip.

If and when play does get underway at Taunton Vale,  Worcestershire will come up against new Somerset skipper Chris Rogers.

The former Australia Test opener will lead Somerset for the first time against skipper Daryl Mitchell's side.

Rogers said: "I haven't played too much competitive cricket lately and that was the reason why I have come over so early and wanting to be involved in the warm-up matches.

"It also gives me an opportunity to feel the vibes and get to know how the team plays."

Somerset Director Of Cricket Matthew Maynard said: "Chris has settled in really well and is very much looking forward to the game. It will be great to have his contribution so early in the season."

Somerset drew a three-day friendly last week against Gloucestershire with Marcus Trescothick scoring 95.

Maynard said: "We will be hoping for some more good cricket like we played against Gloucestershire. As the game went on, the bowlers got consistently better.

"The game with Worcestershire will also give us a chance to see Roleof van der Merwe in action for the first time."

Somerset (from): Trescothick, Abell, Rogers (c), Hildreth, Van der Merwe, Davies, Trego, Barrow (w), Davey, Groenewald, J. Overton, Barber, Leask.