Devon Cricket Board - Cornwood learning fast in top flight

Cornwood learning fast in top flight

CORNWOOD skipper Craig Harris says his Premier Division new boys are on a learnng curve fast track back in the top flight.
The Corns haven't been in the Premier Division since 2002 - and a lot has changed since then.
The rules have changed - 10 overs a bowler, power plays, win-lose cricket with no draws have all come in - and so has the team.
Cornwood have no permanent survivors from the side that last graced the Premier Division, although veteran keeper-batter did help out against Sidmouth yesterday. He 'retired' to the 2nd XI the year before last.
Cornwood defeated Budleigh Salterton first time out, then lost to Bovey Tracey last Saturday
Having played draw cricket in the A Division last season when only the Premier had the win-lose format, Cornwood are having to learn as they go along.
'The first game was a good continuation of some tidy pre-season games and so to win early in the season was a great achievement,' said Harris.
'In that game we noticed how much of a fine line there is between a good ball and a bad ball, a tight over and a loose one and the general discipline that is needed.
Chasing 200 in the first game we knew we could get it in 50 overs, whereas we haven't been set 280 to win in a game for a while .
'In win-lose cricket we learnt a lot about how we need to approach the chase.'
Powerplays are another new innovation Cornwood are coming to terms with, something Harris feels they are managing.
'The powerplays haven't been too bad so far,' said Harris. 'We have two good powerplay bowlers which helps a massive amount.
'We got some pre-season games in under the new rules, which helped a great deal.'
Harris said on of the first things he has noticed about Cornwood's new Premier rivals is the strength in depth throughout teams.
'Take a few of wickets early and you still find yourself against a frontline batter capable of playing through the innings to build a score,' said Harris.
'Bowling is tighter, more disciplined with less width and fewer chances to hit a boundary. As a result fielders can be tight and squeeze runs.'
It is still early days to determine too much about how Cornwood are doing, although Harris says the signs are encouraging.
'Week on week we are learning bits and pieces that other teams will do naturally given their experience' said Harris.
'Our training has changed accordingly but in a nutshell discipline is a huge thing.
'The ability to put six balls in the same place, hold all catches, restrict runs and take chances in the field are all crucial.
'Batting to keep the scoreboard ticking over is key and putting away the bad ball.
'Run rates are higher but it's not that you need to be reckless, just clever.'

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