Blackie - will he or won't he?
by Alan Rowley, 1st May 2003

Speculation is mounting as to whether Somerset and England star Ian Blackwell will turn out for Chesterfield this weekend. With his club in town and Blackie sidelined with a minor injury, there is every chance that the all-rounder will put in a show.

Chesterfield born Blackwell (pictured), who has never forgotten his roots, remains a member of the club where he developed his career. He turned out for Chesterfield on three occasions in 2002 scoring 246, but 206 of those runs came in one memorable afternoon at Raynesway in June.

On a glorious batting track, Blackwell, ably assisted by Bradman Ediriweera, annihiliated the home team bowlers hitting 26 fours and 7 sixes. The Prince contributed 96 to the visitors match winning total of 378 for 5 declared from 48 overs. Alvaston and Boulton replied with an all out total of 201.

No-one came anywhere near Blackwell's individual total during the season and it looks like his performance could remain on the record books for some years to come. But who knows - he could beat it this weekend.

Read: Ian Blackwell profile (from Grockles.com - independent Somerset)

Speculation is high due to the fact that Somerset are playing at the County Ground over the weekend. Blackwell is known to be "in town" and with his hand injury being of a minor nature, he could well use the weekend to test the injury. And who are Chesterfield playing this weekend - yes, you guessed, the luckless A & B, on Sunday at Raynesway.

But, it's a double header weekend, and Chesterfield start their 2003 campaign at home to Clifton in the shadow of the crooked spire on Saturday. Clifton, who surprised everyone by signing former England player Chris Lewis (pictured right) during the close season, started off last weekend with a big win at home to Quarndon. Lewis, making his debut, scored 68 and took 3 for 30 helping his new team-mates to a 6 wicket win. With South African Ant Botha also in form, Clifton will be a tough nut to crack.

It will be an exciting weekend and rest assured you will get a full coverage on the official league site and on Sting In The Tail. Why not get out and see some of the action?