We Have Set Challenging Total - Klinger
12 July 2013
Gloucestershire skipper Michael Klinger reckons the LV=County Championship match against Kent at Cheltenham is all set up for a “great final day”.
Following a day of contrived declarations at the famous old College Ground, Second Division basement side Kent will chase 411 in a minimum 96 overs as they seek a first four-day win in nine attempts this season.
Rather than allow the game to peter out into a tame draw on a flat pitch, Klinger and Kent captain James Tredwell struck a deal which could give rise to a potentially-thrilling finale.
Michael told this website: “I think 411 will be a challenging total in this situation. There is always scoreboard pressure and, if our bowling attack puts the ball in the right areas and we back them up by being sharp in the field for the full day, then we will give ourselves a good chance.
“Whatever happens, it is set-up for a great day for the crowd tomorrow.”
Of the deal he struck with Tredwell, he said: “To be fair, neither side was in a position to drive a hard bargain. I think just over four an over on this ground is a pretty fair scoring rate.
“We could have set them 450, but we are about progressing our guys as individuals and as a team and I think, if we are going to progress, we have to learn to win games in pressure situations such as this. I think it will be a great experience for our guys and something they can use to go forward if they take 10 wickets and win the match.”
Michael helped himself to 102 not out against declaration bowling, but felt the ends justified the means.
He said: “It may not have been the best day’s cricket for those who were here today, but at least they saw some fours and sixes.
“I hope people will rock up on their day off on Saturday and see a great day’s play.”
For more details of Day Three click on Cricket and then Match Reports.
