Yet another sunny day greeted Crossbats as the arrived at the very picturesque
Bank of England Sports Centre.
A very popular fixture due to the location, the wicket and the tea, captain Dunbar had some tough decisions to make to choose only 11 from an available 14.
With the side selected, Crossbats were in the mood to avenge last year’s very disappointing defeat. The captains tossed and BOE sent the visitors into bat.
Wright, who was due to open the innings with Collier, had come down with the increasingly on the rise illness ‘another pint of pride thanks’ (Scientific name not yet available) and was swiftly bumped to number 6. Nicholls, ready and willing as ever, stepped into Wrights position at the top of the order and this prompted a double change, dropping Collier to 3 and bringing Brentford’s hometown hero, Spiro, into to number 1 to face the first ball.
The pair got off to a cautious start – some buffs and some swipes, but before to long found a little rhythm and bat began to connect with ball.
Nicholls was the first to collect some decent runs with a couple of well timed boundaries behind square – The running between wickets was also impressive, with Spiro, Crossbats only genuine sprinter between the wickets, pushing Nicholls hard for the
Quick single.
However, Nicholls was first to perish, after a gallant 12.
Collier arrived at the crease with intent and it wasn’t long before the boundary fielders
Were running out of puff. Colliers first 5 scoring shots were boundaries and from that solid base he set about building himself an innings.
Spiro at the other end was seemingly confident, having spent the majority of the first ten overs at the crease, but was undone by a lovely straight delivery for 8.
Winch joined Collier and the pair looked to consolidate against some nigly slow bowling.
Both Winch and Collier managed to find the boundary on regular occasion, frustrating the opposition who were staring down the barrel of a very healthy total.
At drinks, Crossbats were 92/2 – with roughly an hour to 1hr 20min to bat, Dunbar set a task of reaching 200 with approx 15 mins to play. Try as they might after drinks, the BOE hunkered down, put as many chaps on the boundary as possible and dried up the runs.
Collier, hitting some very sweet shots, just couldn’t get past the boundary fielders and was reduced to numerous singles – however, these singles took him past 50 in what was a very controlled innings.
Winch tried to up the anti, smashing a lovely six down the ground, to only try the same thing again two balls later and give up his wicket for a well earned 48.
Carter arrived at the crease and his stay was brief, being trapped absolutely plum LBW off just two deliveries for 0.
Wright, having nicked some lucozade, was ready for the challenge ahead. He played tentatively early on but slowly settled in at the crease.
Collier meanwhile, continued to work the ball into the gaps before frustration got the better of him and he holed out for an impressive 61.
Fraser joined Wright at the crease for his first innings of the year after injuring his nick.
He too looked solid, playing confident defensive strokes and working the ball into the gaps on occasion.
Wright was next to go, continuing a run of catches for 11.
Dunbar arrived at the crease, but was only there for a matter of five balls, losing his head and heaving at a ball that should not be heaved at, joining Carter in the duck club.
With Crossbats struggling to post a competitive total, Van Vuuren arrived to help save face. Fraser looked good before holing out for 11 which bought Lawrence to the crease for the final push.
Van Vuuren and Lawrence played cautiously but took there chances when they came and on 180/8, Dunbar decided enough was enough and called the pair in, Van Vuuren compiling a valuable 16 not out, assisted by Lawrence with 8.
Crossbats sat down to enjoy another lavish BOE tea – nobody gets sick of the scones and cream!!
With tea taken care of, Crossbats huddled in the middle, determined to put right the wrongs of last year.
Dunbar and Van vuuren opened the attack, both bowling sharply and accurately.
Dunbar claimed the first wicket when Andrew’s fished at one outside off and edged it through to an outstretched Collier, who took a brilliant catch. And it wasn’t long before Dunbar struck again, claiming the wicket of old foe Hilton, to another brilliant collier catch, this time gloved down the leg side. BOE were in trouble at 24/2.
There was no let up on the horizon as Dunbar claimed a third, this time relieving Collier of any duties, slipping one under the bat and sending the bails flying.
Van Vuuren had toiled at the other end and was unlucky not to have claimed a wicket, proving just a little too quick for the top order batsmen.
The pace was slowed by a change that bought Winch to the crease. It had immediate results as Winch tossed one up and the batsmen mis-timed, holing out to Van Vuuren, leaving BOE 29/4. Winch struck again moments later, tricking the batsmen with the quicker one and trapping him plum in front – 42/5 and crossbats could smell victory.
A double change was made, with Gumbley replacing Dunbar and Lawrence taking the ball from Winch. Gumbley, as always, didn’t take long at all to produce a wicket ball, lulling the batsmen into a false stroke, straight into the safe hands of Nicholls.
Gumbley chipped in again, when the batsmen again mistimed, scooping the ball up high
To a running Van Vuuren, who took a wonderful catch.
Lawrence wasn’t going to miss out on the action, and with a customary grunt, forced the ball past the batsmen, taking off stump to leave Bank 62/8 and only a slim chance of holding out for the draw.
All but the slimmest chances were dashed when Gumbley picked up his third, bamboozling the batsmen and bowling him middle stump.
With one wicket left, the job was left to Lawrence, and after a few overs of resistance and some momentary nerves, Lawrence produced another corker to wrap up the innings and Crossbats 4th victory from four matches.
It was a wonderful performance by all involved, in batting, bowling and fielding – The man of the match must go to Collier for his excellent contribution with the bat and his wonderful effort behind the stumps.
Crossbats relaxed in the evening sun on the balcony at the beautiful Bank of England Sports complex, beer in hand, looking forward to the next chance we have to come back here….unfortunately not until next season and we can only hope it is as successful as today’s performance.
Next week Morden, always an interesting fixture and a good contest!
Stay tuned!
Scorecard
Tuesday, 12 May 2009
Friday, 8 May 2009
Match report Crossbats V The Blues 2nd May
After a fortnight laziness, I am pleased to publish the first match report for
Crossbats 2009.
A quick recap of the season so far sees Crossbats taking two victory’s from two outings, both with relative ease. The surprise package thus far is the form of opening batsmen, Clive Nicholls.
With all the averages and aggregate talks being around Winch and Collier, Nicholls has
Put himself in contention with two fine displays of batting, giving him an early season
Average of 72 and the undisputed lead in the race for the batting trophy.
The bowlers meanwhile have also had a chance to get out of the blocks early, taking all 20 scalps on offer from the two fixtures – It’s nick and nick in the bowling trophy stakes, with only a run or a wicket in it.
Crossbats 3rd assignment for the season was to dispatch of The Blues.
The venue was changed once, changed twice and finally settled as Hampton Wick.
The weather was good and the team was ready to go. Toss won, Dunbar elected to bowl – Upsetting various members of the side.
However, decision made, Dunbar and Van Vuuren took the new ball. Wickets didn’t take long to fall and both bowlers were rewarded for there efforts, with perhaps Van Vuuren being unlucky not to claim two or three more.
Van Vuuren bowled through and finished with impressive figures of 1/19 from 7 overs.
Gumbley replaced Dunbar and Tillson came on from the other end – Both bowlers found there mark and collected 3 wickets between them.
Ross struggled after last weeks performance, but still managed to claim 1 wicket.
Dunbar came back to tidy up the tail, assisted by a wonderful catch behind the stumps to Collier.
The Blues capitulated for 93 and although that left Crossbats in a strong position, nothing is a certainty when we get together!
After a filling tea, it was back to the track to get the job done. Nicholls started with a flourish, playing a selection of beautiful shots. Collier was cautious but fluent in his strokeplay.
Nicholls fell for 17, playing on to a ball just outside off.
Birthday boy Wright joined Collier at the crease, eager to get his average above 1 and begin staking a claim for the batting trophy.
He was far more controlled and played some elegant shots, whilst Collier began to play his natural game, and found many gaps in the opposition field.
With the game all but won, Wright holed out to mid on for 13 to bring Carter to the crease to get the job done – And sure enough he got the job done, compiling 6 and denying Collier his 50 by 1 solitary run – Brilliant!
With victory secure and beer in hand….thoughts turned to next week…..The Bank of England…..
With the captain criticised (some would say unfairly) last year for his declaration, he is looking to make amends this year and has a perfect plan in place to take Crossbats to the giddying heights of 4 wins from 4 matches….
Watch this space!
Score Card
Crossbats 2009.
A quick recap of the season so far sees Crossbats taking two victory’s from two outings, both with relative ease. The surprise package thus far is the form of opening batsmen, Clive Nicholls.
With all the averages and aggregate talks being around Winch and Collier, Nicholls has
Put himself in contention with two fine displays of batting, giving him an early season
Average of 72 and the undisputed lead in the race for the batting trophy.
The bowlers meanwhile have also had a chance to get out of the blocks early, taking all 20 scalps on offer from the two fixtures – It’s nick and nick in the bowling trophy stakes, with only a run or a wicket in it.
Crossbats 3rd assignment for the season was to dispatch of The Blues.
The venue was changed once, changed twice and finally settled as Hampton Wick.
The weather was good and the team was ready to go. Toss won, Dunbar elected to bowl – Upsetting various members of the side.
However, decision made, Dunbar and Van Vuuren took the new ball. Wickets didn’t take long to fall and both bowlers were rewarded for there efforts, with perhaps Van Vuuren being unlucky not to claim two or three more.
Van Vuuren bowled through and finished with impressive figures of 1/19 from 7 overs.
Gumbley replaced Dunbar and Tillson came on from the other end – Both bowlers found there mark and collected 3 wickets between them.
Ross struggled after last weeks performance, but still managed to claim 1 wicket.
Dunbar came back to tidy up the tail, assisted by a wonderful catch behind the stumps to Collier.
The Blues capitulated for 93 and although that left Crossbats in a strong position, nothing is a certainty when we get together!
After a filling tea, it was back to the track to get the job done. Nicholls started with a flourish, playing a selection of beautiful shots. Collier was cautious but fluent in his strokeplay.
Nicholls fell for 17, playing on to a ball just outside off.
Birthday boy Wright joined Collier at the crease, eager to get his average above 1 and begin staking a claim for the batting trophy.
He was far more controlled and played some elegant shots, whilst Collier began to play his natural game, and found many gaps in the opposition field.
With the game all but won, Wright holed out to mid on for 13 to bring Carter to the crease to get the job done – And sure enough he got the job done, compiling 6 and denying Collier his 50 by 1 solitary run – Brilliant!
With victory secure and beer in hand….thoughts turned to next week…..The Bank of England…..
With the captain criticised (some would say unfairly) last year for his declaration, he is looking to make amends this year and has a perfect plan in place to take Crossbats to the giddying heights of 4 wins from 4 matches….
Watch this space!
Score Card
Monday, 20 October 2008
Fixture: Crossbats CC 2nd XI v. Pacific CC
And so it came, at last, the end of a 6 month season in which Crossbats have hit the occasional highs and the less occasional lows. Today’s opponents were the impressive looking Pacific, complete with the popular Billy Bunter, flown in from Australia for the occasion, and in many ways the match proved to be a microcosm of the season for the galant Crossbats.
Captain Dunbar successfully lost the toss again and Pacific chose to have a bat first on the wearing Moormead astroturf/bare concrete. On an implausibly hot and sunny October day, the Crossbats emerged from the dressing room with the familiar aroma of deep heat, sunscreen and diptheria resonating from the clubhouse.
Dunbar and van Vuuren opened the bowling at a lively pace, VV getting early reward for a good line with the wicket of Holman for 0. Pacific were not to be intimidated though and set about carving shots to all corners of the ground, this despite the presence of a 12th fielder at gully (in the shape of goalposts). While Spiro was mysteriously reported to be in Birmingham today, it was clear that he was still here in spirit, sat on a bench on the square leg boundary in the form of an octogenarian. It’s fair to say that the goalpost’s main contribution to the day was to help take some of the strain off of Wright’s ageing spine. Contrastingly, Spiro’s Spirit showed far more enthusiasm for the fight. His first contribution was to let the ball roll between his legs before falling backwards on his arse, narrowly avoiding a fractured hip. Not content with this humiliation, the old fella stayed true to the Law of Spiro by coming back for more. Again the ball came to him, again he lept from his bench and this time fielded the ball tidily. Alas, as he threw the ball back in, the poor old boy again lost his footing and again went arse over tit. Surprisingly, he again arose without the need of an ambulance, but the lesson had been learnt and soon after he softly disappeared, never to return.
Showing admirable concentration in the midst of the circus act on the boundary, the Pacific batsman continued to score at a healthy rate with the dangerous looking Tempany not afraid to take the aerial route. It was at this point that Dunbar made his last inspired decision of the season and brought on leg-spinner Winch from the Pavilion End. The tall Tempany’s eyes clearly lit up at the prospect and swung wildly at the first delivery. The ball went up and up, and up a bit more, as Smith circled underneath it. This was just the sort of catch that Crossbats drop at will, but today something changed and Smith clung on to take a superb catch.
Next in was Webley, and before he had a run on the board Winch bamboozled him with a flipper/googly which by all reports hit him on the ankle in line with middle stump. A concerted appeal from all Crossbats failed to shake the umpire’s resolve however, and the verdict was not out. From square leg, it looked out and your correspondent would certainly have raised the Finger. Given a reprieve, Webley set about the bowling with aggressive intent, making good use of the short boundaries to hit several maximums.
At the other end Bastin was labouring, eventually guiding Dunbar to the waiting Lawrence who took a smart catch at gully, using his full frame to good effect.
While Webley continued to score well, Atkin at the other end did not last long, well caught by Tilson at short midwicket off the bowling of Lawrence
This brought Billy Bunter to the crease, much the delight of old hands Lawrence and Carter. After a few scratchy shots, Bunter eventually found his ark, hoiking two sixes over the square leg boundary. However, it was the spin of Winch that proved the undoing of the chunky lefthander. Beaten in the flight, Bunter cracked a full-blooded drive straight to Nicholls at short mid-wicket, and surprisingly another catch was taken.
At 160/5, it’s fair to say that this was Crossbats’ opportunity to finish off an impressive looking side and have a target of less than 200 to chase. Unfortunately, in a season of what-might-have-beens, this proved to be beyond them and Webley along with Smith proceeded to add 90ish for the sixth wicket. A highlight of this period of play was when Wright was brought into the attack, only to be deposited first ball by Webley into the side door of a BMW parked on the boundary. Clearly sensing the danger of further carnage, at least 3 astute Pacific players took swift action and assumed fielding positions in the middle of the road for the rest of the over.
With Wright withdrawn promptly, Ross was given his first opportunity to show the Captain what he could do with the ball. 2 overs of steady medium pace followed, but still no breakthrough. Dunbar, in the true spirit of bowling captains, saw that the only man that could get a wicket now was of course himself. He thus came back for a brief, tortuous spell in which the flailing Collier could do nothing to stop 12 byes/wides from disappearing down the leg side in 3 successive deliveries. By this stage, Pacific were rampant, Webley had scored an impressive (though slightly controversial) century and although van Vuuren got late reward by bowling Smith, it was all too little to late and Pacific posted a daunting target of 262 for Crossbats to finish the season on a high.
The nearest they came to this goal was the fine tea enjoyed by all. Opening the innings were Nicholls and Tilson. In a last act of desperation, Nicholls had ditched his bat and borrowed the bat of Dunbar, and despite the ball hitting the middle of the bat on several occasions, he was soon on his way back to the pavilion after missing a straight one. Next over, Tilson decided to do the same and Crossbats were in trouble at 7 for 2.
This brought together Collier and Wright, 2 of the lynchpins of Crossbats’ batting line-up this season, and they set about rebuilding the innings with great application. Wright’s stand and deliver style looked to be in good working order, while Collier was quick to punish anything short on either side of the wicket. With optimism growing on the boundary that these two could get Crossbats back into the game, Winch was seen to be getting visibly more nervous with every run scored by Collier. Next man in, he was all too aware of the close race to win the season’s batting trophy between himself and the little Sphincter. Meanwhile, Wright had got into a bit of a rut against the useful bowling of Roberts and was subsequently bowled for a gutsy 23, having put on 101 with Collier. In strode Winch, knowing that he needed runs not only for himself, but for his team.
At the other end, Collier was making hay while the sun still shone (probably aware that it would not be shining for much after 5pm). However, having hit 6 fours in a row, he finally missed one and was out for an attractive 66. Winch was joined by Ross, but the glorious end to the season was not to be. Winch was soon bowled, a rare dismissal indeed for this usually sound technician.
This opened up the stage for Crossbats’ dangerous late order hitters, Dunbar and van Vuuren. On their day they can bring fear and destruction to bowlers and BMW’s alike. In the event, the private battle between the pair to avoid the Duck Cup proved of more relevance. Dunbar lustily scored 4, before being bowled, before van Vuuren lustily scored 0 and hence secured himself the well deserved trophy.
Ross soon followed the trend by also being bowled, which left Carter to show that there’s still life in the old dog yet by cracking a quick 36. At the other end, in a final act of hilarity, Smith pulled a groin and summoned to the boundary for a runner. The boundary’s response was lukewarm, leaving the stricken Smith to hobble on regardless. Having realised that it wasn’t in fact Old Man Carter that was injured, Skipper Dunbar hastily reversed his decision and sent in no. 11 Lawrence to run for Smith. Several confusing singles later, Carter was dismissed, only to replace Lawrence as runner. Several more confusing singles later, sprinkled with a couple of nice boundaries by both batsman, Smith was finally dismissed and Crossbats had literally limped to 193 all out.
A fitting end to a topsy-turvy season, the true Crossbat spirit was displayed by all at the Turks Head post match. Beer flowed, Winch won the batsman’s trophy by a run, Lawrence walked away with the bowler’s trophy and the winner of the chili growing competition, organised by Lips, was won by Lips.
Scorecard
Captain Dunbar successfully lost the toss again and Pacific chose to have a bat first on the wearing Moormead astroturf/bare concrete. On an implausibly hot and sunny October day, the Crossbats emerged from the dressing room with the familiar aroma of deep heat, sunscreen and diptheria resonating from the clubhouse.
Dunbar and van Vuuren opened the bowling at a lively pace, VV getting early reward for a good line with the wicket of Holman for 0. Pacific were not to be intimidated though and set about carving shots to all corners of the ground, this despite the presence of a 12th fielder at gully (in the shape of goalposts). While Spiro was mysteriously reported to be in Birmingham today, it was clear that he was still here in spirit, sat on a bench on the square leg boundary in the form of an octogenarian. It’s fair to say that the goalpost’s main contribution to the day was to help take some of the strain off of Wright’s ageing spine. Contrastingly, Spiro’s Spirit showed far more enthusiasm for the fight. His first contribution was to let the ball roll between his legs before falling backwards on his arse, narrowly avoiding a fractured hip. Not content with this humiliation, the old fella stayed true to the Law of Spiro by coming back for more. Again the ball came to him, again he lept from his bench and this time fielded the ball tidily. Alas, as he threw the ball back in, the poor old boy again lost his footing and again went arse over tit. Surprisingly, he again arose without the need of an ambulance, but the lesson had been learnt and soon after he softly disappeared, never to return.
Showing admirable concentration in the midst of the circus act on the boundary, the Pacific batsman continued to score at a healthy rate with the dangerous looking Tempany not afraid to take the aerial route. It was at this point that Dunbar made his last inspired decision of the season and brought on leg-spinner Winch from the Pavilion End. The tall Tempany’s eyes clearly lit up at the prospect and swung wildly at the first delivery. The ball went up and up, and up a bit more, as Smith circled underneath it. This was just the sort of catch that Crossbats drop at will, but today something changed and Smith clung on to take a superb catch.
Next in was Webley, and before he had a run on the board Winch bamboozled him with a flipper/googly which by all reports hit him on the ankle in line with middle stump. A concerted appeal from all Crossbats failed to shake the umpire’s resolve however, and the verdict was not out. From square leg, it looked out and your correspondent would certainly have raised the Finger. Given a reprieve, Webley set about the bowling with aggressive intent, making good use of the short boundaries to hit several maximums.
At the other end Bastin was labouring, eventually guiding Dunbar to the waiting Lawrence who took a smart catch at gully, using his full frame to good effect.
While Webley continued to score well, Atkin at the other end did not last long, well caught by Tilson at short midwicket off the bowling of Lawrence
This brought Billy Bunter to the crease, much the delight of old hands Lawrence and Carter. After a few scratchy shots, Bunter eventually found his ark, hoiking two sixes over the square leg boundary. However, it was the spin of Winch that proved the undoing of the chunky lefthander. Beaten in the flight, Bunter cracked a full-blooded drive straight to Nicholls at short mid-wicket, and surprisingly another catch was taken.
At 160/5, it’s fair to say that this was Crossbats’ opportunity to finish off an impressive looking side and have a target of less than 200 to chase. Unfortunately, in a season of what-might-have-beens, this proved to be beyond them and Webley along with Smith proceeded to add 90ish for the sixth wicket. A highlight of this period of play was when Wright was brought into the attack, only to be deposited first ball by Webley into the side door of a BMW parked on the boundary. Clearly sensing the danger of further carnage, at least 3 astute Pacific players took swift action and assumed fielding positions in the middle of the road for the rest of the over.
With Wright withdrawn promptly, Ross was given his first opportunity to show the Captain what he could do with the ball. 2 overs of steady medium pace followed, but still no breakthrough. Dunbar, in the true spirit of bowling captains, saw that the only man that could get a wicket now was of course himself. He thus came back for a brief, tortuous spell in which the flailing Collier could do nothing to stop 12 byes/wides from disappearing down the leg side in 3 successive deliveries. By this stage, Pacific were rampant, Webley had scored an impressive (though slightly controversial) century and although van Vuuren got late reward by bowling Smith, it was all too little to late and Pacific posted a daunting target of 262 for Crossbats to finish the season on a high.
The nearest they came to this goal was the fine tea enjoyed by all. Opening the innings were Nicholls and Tilson. In a last act of desperation, Nicholls had ditched his bat and borrowed the bat of Dunbar, and despite the ball hitting the middle of the bat on several occasions, he was soon on his way back to the pavilion after missing a straight one. Next over, Tilson decided to do the same and Crossbats were in trouble at 7 for 2.
This brought together Collier and Wright, 2 of the lynchpins of Crossbats’ batting line-up this season, and they set about rebuilding the innings with great application. Wright’s stand and deliver style looked to be in good working order, while Collier was quick to punish anything short on either side of the wicket. With optimism growing on the boundary that these two could get Crossbats back into the game, Winch was seen to be getting visibly more nervous with every run scored by Collier. Next man in, he was all too aware of the close race to win the season’s batting trophy between himself and the little Sphincter. Meanwhile, Wright had got into a bit of a rut against the useful bowling of Roberts and was subsequently bowled for a gutsy 23, having put on 101 with Collier. In strode Winch, knowing that he needed runs not only for himself, but for his team.
At the other end, Collier was making hay while the sun still shone (probably aware that it would not be shining for much after 5pm). However, having hit 6 fours in a row, he finally missed one and was out for an attractive 66. Winch was joined by Ross, but the glorious end to the season was not to be. Winch was soon bowled, a rare dismissal indeed for this usually sound technician.
This opened up the stage for Crossbats’ dangerous late order hitters, Dunbar and van Vuuren. On their day they can bring fear and destruction to bowlers and BMW’s alike. In the event, the private battle between the pair to avoid the Duck Cup proved of more relevance. Dunbar lustily scored 4, before being bowled, before van Vuuren lustily scored 0 and hence secured himself the well deserved trophy.
Ross soon followed the trend by also being bowled, which left Carter to show that there’s still life in the old dog yet by cracking a quick 36. At the other end, in a final act of hilarity, Smith pulled a groin and summoned to the boundary for a runner. The boundary’s response was lukewarm, leaving the stricken Smith to hobble on regardless. Having realised that it wasn’t in fact Old Man Carter that was injured, Skipper Dunbar hastily reversed his decision and sent in no. 11 Lawrence to run for Smith. Several confusing singles later, Carter was dismissed, only to replace Lawrence as runner. Several more confusing singles later, sprinkled with a couple of nice boundaries by both batsman, Smith was finally dismissed and Crossbats had literally limped to 193 all out.
A fitting end to a topsy-turvy season, the true Crossbat spirit was displayed by all at the Turks Head post match. Beer flowed, Winch won the batsman’s trophy by a run, Lawrence walked away with the bowler’s trophy and the winner of the chili growing competition, organised by Lips, was won by Lips.
Scorecard
Tuesday, 2 September 2008
Yarl v. Crossbats 2nd XI – The View from the Boundary
Yarl v. Crossbats 2nd XI – The View from the Boundary
Venue: West Harrow Rec
A beautiful sunny day in Harrow greeted the eager Crossbats as they arrived at the home Yarl. Short sleeves and sunglasses were de rigeur, in direct contrast to the early season home fixture when balaclavas, mittens and Spiro’s luminous headgear were more appropriate.
The Crossbats had already been in the field for 10 minutes before their opponents arrived. Captain Shandy Pants decided to continue with his recent tactic of losing the toss and with a threadbare Yarl electing to bat first, Crossbats set about the task with gusto.
Opening the bowling were the fiery pairing of Tilson and Pants. After a couple of looseners, the bails began to fly. Tilson removed Beski, while at the other end Pants was on fire and had decided he might try bowling at the stumps this week. 3 quick wickets followed and at 28 for 4 Yarl were looking shaky.
Number 4 Tharma looked dangerous, and strangely reminiscent of a right handed Chanderpaul, clipping a couple of boundaries wristily through the on side. However, a moment of madness ensued when the youngster decided he would try to run a bye following a rare error my keeper Sphing. Misjudging the deceptive speed of Winch, the little batsman could only watch as Winch swooped, spun and hurled down the stumps with Tharma well short of his ground.
With bowling changes aplenty, Fraser trundled in off his short run up and took a bit of punishment (not helped by a boundary the length of a tennis court on one side). At the other end, perhaps distracted by having the combined skills of Arse and Mupes protecting the short boundary, Fitch was bowling with plenty of variety. From one of his cleverly pitched long-hops, Fitch struck. Ratna’s eyes had lit up, and expecting easy runs he carved it through the covers. However, the trap had been set and Jonty Arse plucked it out of the air with great aplomb.
Fitch soon showed himself again to be the thinking-man’s cricketer by opting to go around the wicket to the free-scoring Yogan. This tucked the batsman up on several occasions, and soon enough he had succumbed and was bowled.
At this point Shandy gave the call to his premier medium-slow bowler, Spiro. It was the end of August, his first bowl of the season and with barely an over to prepare, Spiro set about his task with enthusiasm. The Yarl batsman played some risky airborne shots, including one leading edge to Stroppules at long leg. Deceived by the spin (it’s not something he’s familiar with), Stroppy ran one way while the ball went the other. Four runs and now Spiro was really mad. Charging in, he got one to swing, seam and bounce off a length, Tilson taking a neat catch off of Yogan.
All that was left was for Stroppy to clean up the last 2 wickets and Yarl were all out for 103 and an early tea was taken.
In reply, Shandy decided to open the innings with the experienced Winch and the nervous Fingers. In a controversial move, Fraser enthusiastically volunteered to umpire from both ends to help out the fast fading Mupes. Winch set about the bowling well, carving some wristy boundaries across the fast outfield. At the other end, Fingers was showing a rare determination to stop the ball from hitting his pads by whatever means he could. While Yarl were strangely quiet, the square leg umpire was on several occasions heard to appeal on their behalf, but to no avail.
After a couple of scares, the opening pair had taken the score on to 39 before Fingers could resist no longer. The dreaded straight ball, he played, he missed, it hit his pad but sadly for Fraser it then hit the stumps before he was able to raise his finger.
Next in was Arse, striding purposefully to the wicket sensing runs were to be had. A couple of authoritative strokes were followed by a few quick singles, and several slower ones kept the scoreboard ticking along nicely. At the other Winch continued at a good rate and both players seemed to be playing with half an eye on the averages, much to the displeasure of the impatient Sphing on the boundary. Surprisingly, Winch misjudged one, playing back to a straight one from the left-armer and was bowled for a mostly fluent 42. Score 77 for 2.
Thus it was left to Sphing and a rejuvenated Arse to finish the match with a few lusty blows and Crossbats steamed home with 16 overs to spare.
A good all round performance from Crossbats against an admittedly below-par Yarl, it was their first victory since 5th July and sets them up for a strong finish to the season.
Venue: West Harrow Rec
A beautiful sunny day in Harrow greeted the eager Crossbats as they arrived at the home Yarl. Short sleeves and sunglasses were de rigeur, in direct contrast to the early season home fixture when balaclavas, mittens and Spiro’s luminous headgear were more appropriate.
The Crossbats had already been in the field for 10 minutes before their opponents arrived. Captain Shandy Pants decided to continue with his recent tactic of losing the toss and with a threadbare Yarl electing to bat first, Crossbats set about the task with gusto.
Opening the bowling were the fiery pairing of Tilson and Pants. After a couple of looseners, the bails began to fly. Tilson removed Beski, while at the other end Pants was on fire and had decided he might try bowling at the stumps this week. 3 quick wickets followed and at 28 for 4 Yarl were looking shaky.
Number 4 Tharma looked dangerous, and strangely reminiscent of a right handed Chanderpaul, clipping a couple of boundaries wristily through the on side. However, a moment of madness ensued when the youngster decided he would try to run a bye following a rare error my keeper Sphing. Misjudging the deceptive speed of Winch, the little batsman could only watch as Winch swooped, spun and hurled down the stumps with Tharma well short of his ground.
With bowling changes aplenty, Fraser trundled in off his short run up and took a bit of punishment (not helped by a boundary the length of a tennis court on one side). At the other end, perhaps distracted by having the combined skills of Arse and Mupes protecting the short boundary, Fitch was bowling with plenty of variety. From one of his cleverly pitched long-hops, Fitch struck. Ratna’s eyes had lit up, and expecting easy runs he carved it through the covers. However, the trap had been set and Jonty Arse plucked it out of the air with great aplomb.
Fitch soon showed himself again to be the thinking-man’s cricketer by opting to go around the wicket to the free-scoring Yogan. This tucked the batsman up on several occasions, and soon enough he had succumbed and was bowled.
At this point Shandy gave the call to his premier medium-slow bowler, Spiro. It was the end of August, his first bowl of the season and with barely an over to prepare, Spiro set about his task with enthusiasm. The Yarl batsman played some risky airborne shots, including one leading edge to Stroppules at long leg. Deceived by the spin (it’s not something he’s familiar with), Stroppy ran one way while the ball went the other. Four runs and now Spiro was really mad. Charging in, he got one to swing, seam and bounce off a length, Tilson taking a neat catch off of Yogan.
All that was left was for Stroppy to clean up the last 2 wickets and Yarl were all out for 103 and an early tea was taken.
In reply, Shandy decided to open the innings with the experienced Winch and the nervous Fingers. In a controversial move, Fraser enthusiastically volunteered to umpire from both ends to help out the fast fading Mupes. Winch set about the bowling well, carving some wristy boundaries across the fast outfield. At the other end, Fingers was showing a rare determination to stop the ball from hitting his pads by whatever means he could. While Yarl were strangely quiet, the square leg umpire was on several occasions heard to appeal on their behalf, but to no avail.
After a couple of scares, the opening pair had taken the score on to 39 before Fingers could resist no longer. The dreaded straight ball, he played, he missed, it hit his pad but sadly for Fraser it then hit the stumps before he was able to raise his finger.
Next in was Arse, striding purposefully to the wicket sensing runs were to be had. A couple of authoritative strokes were followed by a few quick singles, and several slower ones kept the scoreboard ticking along nicely. At the other Winch continued at a good rate and both players seemed to be playing with half an eye on the averages, much to the displeasure of the impatient Sphing on the boundary. Surprisingly, Winch misjudged one, playing back to a straight one from the left-armer and was bowled for a mostly fluent 42. Score 77 for 2.
Thus it was left to Sphing and a rejuvenated Arse to finish the match with a few lusty blows and Crossbats steamed home with 16 overs to spare.
A good all round performance from Crossbats against an admittedly below-par Yarl, it was their first victory since 5th July and sets them up for a strong finish to the season.
(Author: Fingers aka Clive Nicholls )
Wednesday, 9 July 2008
Elthorne match report
On a blustery day in Chiswick, Crossbats assembled for their match against Elthorne.
Elthorne had proved to be tough competitors in the past and today would be no different.
Elthorne won the toss and elected to field and the exciting crossbats opening pair of
Winch and Spiro took guard.
Little did the other Crossbats know that Spiro was in the mood to break a record or two. His first record came after facing only 28 balls................ 0 Not Out, what a master, what an effort. Winch chipped in with Spiro for the second record of the day...24 runs compiled after 10 overs - The scene was set for a blistering day of high intensity cricket.
The message was politely relayed to 'GET ON WITH IT'......and the message was taken on board as this pair began to dominate. At the half way stage, Spiro and Winch had managed to get the run rate up to near 4 and had set a good platform for the big hitters lower down the order.
The next record to tumble was one in a slightly more positive vein........the opening partnership. After almost 30 overs at the crease, Spiro and Winch had compiled an impressive 136 for the 1st wicket, before Spiro was run out for 32 trying to up the intensity.
Winch Followed shortly after for an excellent 86, when he was bowled by the part time spinner.
All the while, Captain Dunbar's mother, fresh off the boat from Australia and looking a little worse for wear, had been waiting patiently for her favourite son to make an appearance. She had toiled through the slow start and rejoiced at the increasing run rate and had also been privy to rumours that her young Shandy could hit a ball.
Now came his turn and he wanted to make an impression.
And he did just that with a first ball duck - thanks for coming mum.
Wright And Van Vuuren needed to get going but unfortunately neither of them succeeded to any great level, adding 9 and 6 respectively.
Fitch was in next and started putting bat to ball. Tillson at the other end also new what was required and began hitting out ferociously!
Fitch added a valuable 15 before being dismissed and Gourlay joined Tillson for the final onslaught. And what a quality onslaught it was with Tillson freeing the arms and hitting some wonderful boundaries and an excellent pull shot for six.
Gourlay chimed in with a boundary and a six of his own before falling. Barnes joined Tillson for the final over and a bit. Not known for his big hitting, Barnes surprised and impressed all with a first ball straight driven four, followed up by a quick single and affording Tillson the last few balls, of which he made the most of, bludgeoning boundaries and finishing on an unbeaten 34* and guiding crossbats through to 223 on the back of a very solid platform.
Tea was taken quickly as time was running short.
Previous thoughts that captain Dunbar entertained about wicket keeping were pushed aside as, in a last ditch attempt to impressive the old dear, he took the new ball, along with Van Vuuren.
And he had immediate success, sending the opener back to the hut on the last ball of the first over with a clever slower ball. Van vuuren toiled at the other end, keeping the pressure
on. Dunbar struck again in the second over with a well directed delivery that rocked middle stump backwards........and Van Vuuren continued to toil from the other end.
Dunbar's 3rd over saw yet another wicket off another slower ball, caught behind the wicket by the athletic Winch. Van Vuuren came close but just couldn't cash in.
And a fourth wicket was Dunbars when again the use of the slower ball bamboozled the batsmen......Unfortunately for Dunbar, his mother was fast asleep in his car and missed the
entire show!
The pair continued to pile on the pressure and at the end of their spells, Dunbar had claimed 4/21 and the unlucky Van vuuren no wicket for 24.
Tillson and Reeve continued and made immediate inroads. Reeve struck first with a beautiful bowled, reminiscent of his early season form.
The key wicket of Elthornes vice captain came via Tillson - Last year, this chap single handedly won Elthorne the match, but there was to be no repeat today when he holed out to James Gumbley for a dogged 28.
The rest was academic as Tillson continued his great day, claiming a further 3 scalps with some impressive bowling, finishing as Man of the Match with figures of 6 Overs, 1 Maiden, 4/14, to add to impressive showing with the bat.
Almost as if it were written in the script, Fitch came on to clean up the tail and he did so in spectacular fashion. He came steaming into the crease and delivered the ball with a very Fitch like accuracy. As Fitch's arms propelled him forward, the batsmen too came forward to meet the delivery, only to be surprised by it as it popped up off the track. He tried to defend it, but all he could do was spoon it in the direction of the flailing Fitch, who, on his way down to the ground managed to clasp onto the ball and claim a fantastic caught and bowled.
A fitting finish to an exciting days cricket.
It's Willesden next up and Crossbats will be looking to make it 3 on the bounce.
Scorecard
Elthorne had proved to be tough competitors in the past and today would be no different.
Elthorne won the toss and elected to field and the exciting crossbats opening pair of
Winch and Spiro took guard.
Little did the other Crossbats know that Spiro was in the mood to break a record or two. His first record came after facing only 28 balls................ 0 Not Out, what a master, what an effort. Winch chipped in with Spiro for the second record of the day...24 runs compiled after 10 overs - The scene was set for a blistering day of high intensity cricket.
The message was politely relayed to 'GET ON WITH IT'......and the message was taken on board as this pair began to dominate. At the half way stage, Spiro and Winch had managed to get the run rate up to near 4 and had set a good platform for the big hitters lower down the order.
The next record to tumble was one in a slightly more positive vein........the opening partnership. After almost 30 overs at the crease, Spiro and Winch had compiled an impressive 136 for the 1st wicket, before Spiro was run out for 32 trying to up the intensity.
Winch Followed shortly after for an excellent 86, when he was bowled by the part time spinner.
All the while, Captain Dunbar's mother, fresh off the boat from Australia and looking a little worse for wear, had been waiting patiently for her favourite son to make an appearance. She had toiled through the slow start and rejoiced at the increasing run rate and had also been privy to rumours that her young Shandy could hit a ball.
Now came his turn and he wanted to make an impression.
And he did just that with a first ball duck - thanks for coming mum.
Wright And Van Vuuren needed to get going but unfortunately neither of them succeeded to any great level, adding 9 and 6 respectively.
Fitch was in next and started putting bat to ball. Tillson at the other end also new what was required and began hitting out ferociously!
Fitch added a valuable 15 before being dismissed and Gourlay joined Tillson for the final onslaught. And what a quality onslaught it was with Tillson freeing the arms and hitting some wonderful boundaries and an excellent pull shot for six.
Gourlay chimed in with a boundary and a six of his own before falling. Barnes joined Tillson for the final over and a bit. Not known for his big hitting, Barnes surprised and impressed all with a first ball straight driven four, followed up by a quick single and affording Tillson the last few balls, of which he made the most of, bludgeoning boundaries and finishing on an unbeaten 34* and guiding crossbats through to 223 on the back of a very solid platform.
Tea was taken quickly as time was running short.
Previous thoughts that captain Dunbar entertained about wicket keeping were pushed aside as, in a last ditch attempt to impressive the old dear, he took the new ball, along with Van Vuuren.
And he had immediate success, sending the opener back to the hut on the last ball of the first over with a clever slower ball. Van vuuren toiled at the other end, keeping the pressure
on. Dunbar struck again in the second over with a well directed delivery that rocked middle stump backwards........and Van Vuuren continued to toil from the other end.
Dunbar's 3rd over saw yet another wicket off another slower ball, caught behind the wicket by the athletic Winch. Van Vuuren came close but just couldn't cash in.
And a fourth wicket was Dunbars when again the use of the slower ball bamboozled the batsmen......Unfortunately for Dunbar, his mother was fast asleep in his car and missed the
entire show!
The pair continued to pile on the pressure and at the end of their spells, Dunbar had claimed 4/21 and the unlucky Van vuuren no wicket for 24.
Tillson and Reeve continued and made immediate inroads. Reeve struck first with a beautiful bowled, reminiscent of his early season form.
The key wicket of Elthornes vice captain came via Tillson - Last year, this chap single handedly won Elthorne the match, but there was to be no repeat today when he holed out to James Gumbley for a dogged 28.
The rest was academic as Tillson continued his great day, claiming a further 3 scalps with some impressive bowling, finishing as Man of the Match with figures of 6 Overs, 1 Maiden, 4/14, to add to impressive showing with the bat.
Almost as if it were written in the script, Fitch came on to clean up the tail and he did so in spectacular fashion. He came steaming into the crease and delivered the ball with a very Fitch like accuracy. As Fitch's arms propelled him forward, the batsmen too came forward to meet the delivery, only to be surprised by it as it popped up off the track. He tried to defend it, but all he could do was spoon it in the direction of the flailing Fitch, who, on his way down to the ground managed to clasp onto the ball and claim a fantastic caught and bowled.
A fitting finish to an exciting days cricket.
It's Willesden next up and Crossbats will be looking to make it 3 on the bounce.
Scorecard
Wednesday, 2 July 2008
Crossbats v Clapham Nomads
Venue - Hampton wick
With the sun shining and the promise of a 1pm start beckoning, all 11 crossbats fronted at Hampton Wick for the match against the Clapham Nomads.Unfortunately, some of the Nomads were still adjusting to the unfathomable changes of daylight savings and turned up well over an hour late!
Without any further ado, the toss was won and Crossbats elected to bat first.Spiro was first to go, bowled by that straight one again - although, in fairness, it did stay a little low....
Tillson was next out in the very same fashion and Captain Dunbar fell shortly after to leave Crossbats wanting at 27/3.
Smith came to the crease with a focused look in his eye and set about the recovery mission. Wright deserted him after scratching around to compile a miserly 4.
Van Vuuren joined Smith at the crease and the pair began to steady the ship with some well directed dabbles through the slip cordon area and some lusty blows to the boundary.
Unfortunatley the resurection didn't last, with Smith(18) falling and shortly afterwards Van Vuuren(14), leaving the Crossbats tettering at 71/6.
A new addition spawned from the brother of our resident Australian war veteran joined the crossbats campand played with gay abandon, adding an entertaining 14.
Lawrence, Reeve, Jones and Older Gumbley all did their bit in pushing Crossbats through to a defendable totalof 112.
On the casual walk back to the pavilion for tea, the opposition vice captain, whom was of an undisclosed origin, began to amusingly poke fun at one of the larger members of his team, suggesting that if he was not so fat and slow he would be a much better bowler......thank goodness he wasn't in a position to comment on any crossbats physiques! Needless to say the rolly polly gentleman became disgruntled....
Tea was devoured and it was back to the pitch. Dunbar decided to stand in as wicket keeper due to injury of fellowplayers and the wealth of bowlers available to him.
Gumbley and Lawrence took the new ball and it wasn't long before Gumbley had the first wicket, a surprise catch to Dunbar behind the stumps. Lawrence pulled up lame after only four overs and was replaced by Van Vuuren.After one over he found his rhythm, firstly removing the increasingly confident Abdul for 21 and then, very next ball claiming the wicket of Hassan. Both wickets came by virtue of Tillsons clean pair of hands.
Wickets were beginning to tumble and Van Vuuren wanted more. He signalled the slower ball to Dunbar, who in turn crept up onto the stumps, just in time to claim a great caught behind as the batter edged into his gloves!
Another wicket shortly after left Van Vuuren with excellent figures of 4/11 off of his 7.Tillson chimed in with two of his own, first, a lovely bowled and second was another catch behind the stumps to the safe hands of Dunbar, leaving The Nomads in disseray at 62/7.
Crossbats sensed victory and as the rolly polly gentlemen came to the crease, there was just a feeling that something was going to happen...........and sure enough it did. Batting with his captain, RP was at the non strikers end. Their captain turned a ball just in front of squareand called yes to his partner..........fractionally before calling no! Unfortunately for RP, the sudden change in decision left some of his body heading to the strikers end and the other trying to coax it back to the safety of his crease.......
What resulted was RP losing his footing a crashing to the ground in a cloud of dust, hopelessly trying to propell himself back behind the white line........
A quick bit of thinking and the Crossbats had removed the bails and RP was adjudged Run Out.It was what followed that really sent us over the edge. Firstly, the throwing of the bat, followed by various amounts ofabuse to his fellow player, then some loud mutterings as he trudged from the pitch......
With one wicket remaining, Bob Jones got one to turn square, taking the bails of leg stump and leaving crossbats victors by 38 runs.
As we left the park and moved closer to the group of players it became evident the RP was yet to calm down, in fac the had seemingly become angrier and far more aggressive, threatening to knock the lights out of his captain and vowing that he would 'get him'. The captain, understandabley disturbed asked some of the Crossbats to escort him back to the changing room!
With RP safely locked in a car (with the window down just a little bit) we enjoyed a beer with the nomads and looked ahead to our next meeting.
With the sun shining and the promise of a 1pm start beckoning, all 11 crossbats fronted at Hampton Wick for the match against the Clapham Nomads.Unfortunately, some of the Nomads were still adjusting to the unfathomable changes of daylight savings and turned up well over an hour late!
Without any further ado, the toss was won and Crossbats elected to bat first.Spiro was first to go, bowled by that straight one again - although, in fairness, it did stay a little low....
Tillson was next out in the very same fashion and Captain Dunbar fell shortly after to leave Crossbats wanting at 27/3.
Smith came to the crease with a focused look in his eye and set about the recovery mission. Wright deserted him after scratching around to compile a miserly 4.
Van Vuuren joined Smith at the crease and the pair began to steady the ship with some well directed dabbles through the slip cordon area and some lusty blows to the boundary.
Unfortunatley the resurection didn't last, with Smith(18) falling and shortly afterwards Van Vuuren(14), leaving the Crossbats tettering at 71/6.
A new addition spawned from the brother of our resident Australian war veteran joined the crossbats campand played with gay abandon, adding an entertaining 14.
Lawrence, Reeve, Jones and Older Gumbley all did their bit in pushing Crossbats through to a defendable totalof 112.
On the casual walk back to the pavilion for tea, the opposition vice captain, whom was of an undisclosed origin, began to amusingly poke fun at one of the larger members of his team, suggesting that if he was not so fat and slow he would be a much better bowler......thank goodness he wasn't in a position to comment on any crossbats physiques! Needless to say the rolly polly gentleman became disgruntled....
Tea was devoured and it was back to the pitch. Dunbar decided to stand in as wicket keeper due to injury of fellowplayers and the wealth of bowlers available to him.
Gumbley and Lawrence took the new ball and it wasn't long before Gumbley had the first wicket, a surprise catch to Dunbar behind the stumps. Lawrence pulled up lame after only four overs and was replaced by Van Vuuren.After one over he found his rhythm, firstly removing the increasingly confident Abdul for 21 and then, very next ball claiming the wicket of Hassan. Both wickets came by virtue of Tillsons clean pair of hands.
Wickets were beginning to tumble and Van Vuuren wanted more. He signalled the slower ball to Dunbar, who in turn crept up onto the stumps, just in time to claim a great caught behind as the batter edged into his gloves!
Another wicket shortly after left Van Vuuren with excellent figures of 4/11 off of his 7.Tillson chimed in with two of his own, first, a lovely bowled and second was another catch behind the stumps to the safe hands of Dunbar, leaving The Nomads in disseray at 62/7.
Crossbats sensed victory and as the rolly polly gentlemen came to the crease, there was just a feeling that something was going to happen...........and sure enough it did. Batting with his captain, RP was at the non strikers end. Their captain turned a ball just in front of squareand called yes to his partner..........fractionally before calling no! Unfortunately for RP, the sudden change in decision left some of his body heading to the strikers end and the other trying to coax it back to the safety of his crease.......
What resulted was RP losing his footing a crashing to the ground in a cloud of dust, hopelessly trying to propell himself back behind the white line........
A quick bit of thinking and the Crossbats had removed the bails and RP was adjudged Run Out.It was what followed that really sent us over the edge. Firstly, the throwing of the bat, followed by various amounts ofabuse to his fellow player, then some loud mutterings as he trudged from the pitch......
With one wicket remaining, Bob Jones got one to turn square, taking the bails of leg stump and leaving crossbats victors by 38 runs.
As we left the park and moved closer to the group of players it became evident the RP was yet to calm down, in fac the had seemingly become angrier and far more aggressive, threatening to knock the lights out of his captain and vowing that he would 'get him'. The captain, understandabley disturbed asked some of the Crossbats to escort him back to the changing room!
With RP safely locked in a car (with the window down just a little bit) we enjoyed a beer with the nomads and looked ahead to our next meeting.
Monday, 9 June 2008
Crossbats v Cranbourne click here for scorecard
Set against the backdrop of another pommy castle, the Crossbats met at Windsor for the penultimate match before the tour to Italy.
The Crossbats were bouyed by the previous evening's 20/20 success and had arrived focused on another victory.
Dunbar had a firm game plan after having suffered through some dismal time game efforts and when the coin landed it all kicked into action with the Crossbats skipper electing to field first.
Back in the picture and hoping to make up some ground on 2008 bolter Reeve, was Clive Lawrence. Lawrence was trusted with the new ball and it wasn't long before he was picking up wickets. The opening pair for Cranbourne were removed without fuss and Lawrence was looking at his best. Dunbar was keeping things tight from the castle end and the pressure was bringing wickets.
At 50/3 Crossbats were in a solid position. Fitch and Gumbley relieved the opening pair and continued to build the pressure, resulting in a good wicket to Fitch. Gumbley however was in the wars again and was struck whilst attempting a caught and bowled, bringing his spell to a premature end. The skipper then looked to his strike bowler Reeve for additional wickets. Unfortunately for Reeve this wasn't his day and the Cranbourne batsmen targeted him for some much needed momentum. Fraser was also employed to take wickets with similar results to Reeve and both were dragged before serious harm was done.
Ageing spin option Winch was afforded a handful of overs and would have had an early breakthrough had it not been for the slippery fingers of the captain. However, Winch was rewarded for some wylie bowling with a wicket to add to his impressive tally from Friday night.
Dunbar returned to the crease to pick up a wicket by virtue of a sharp catch from Winch at first slip and his opening partner Lawrence was also bought back on to claim his third and fourth wickets to finish his spell with an impressive 4 for.
Collier came on to perform the last rights, removing the final two batsmen and sending Cranbourne to tea with 165 to defend.
Crossbats had toiled in the field for 48 overs and given that this was a time game, they had been left 45 minutes and 20 overs to get the runs. Crossbats had feilded arguabley one of it's strongest batting lineups and all were confident of knocking off the runs in time for an early evening beer with Her Majesty.
Pineapple, rock melon and coconut were but a few of the delights on offer at the tea break and in the warm temperatures the tropical fruits were a big hit. Strangely ironic however was that the crossbats top order was not........
Collier and Spiro were first to the crease to face an upbeat Ray 'The Razor' Spencer aka Angry Anderson. It wasn’t long before Razor claimed his first victim, beating Collier with one that stayed low and sending him back to the hut for 0. Winch was in and out in a matter of moments, falling to a very sharp catch at silly mid on. Spiro was joined by Wright, who had a cool, calm feel about his approach. Unfortunately this didn't rub off on Spiro who was bowled moments later to leave the
Crossbats reeling at 12/3. Carter was in next and was looking to steady the ship, but it wasn't long before Razor got the better of him, bowling Carter for not many . Fitch looked to be in good touch, starting with a lovely boundary. He looked settled at the crease and it was a real blow to the crossbats when he was dismissed for 9, leaving the team languishing at 19/5. With hope's of victory fading fast, Fraser joined Wright at the crease and managed only 5 before he too was sent packing.
At 27/6 and 10 minutes + 20 overs remaining, Crossbats were in dire straits. Dunbar joined Wright at the crease and the pair had a brief discussion about saving face.
The pair managed to see off Razor Spencer, who's figures of 5/14 were more than impressive.
Wright and Dunbar negociated Crossbats to the first hurdle, 20 overs to play and 135 runs required. Spencer was replaced by some very average spin bowling and with personal enjoyment the only realistic achievement, Dunbar opened his shoulders and punished the bowling with a couple of boundaries and a six. Wright was comfortable at the other end facing the left arm seamer, picking runs off his legs at leisure and the pair took crossbats past fifty.
These two chaps were looking increasingly comfortable at the crease, turning the strike and hitting the bad ball, focused on what they could achieve personally and maybe, just maybe, hanging in there long enough to save the draw.
The longer they stayed the dimmer the Cranbourne mood became and a little in fighting began to creep in. Dunbar was looking in very good touch, driving cleanly and clearing the boundary rope on a handful of occassions. All of a sudden the scoreboard read 10 overs remaining and 60 runs required.......could this actually happen?
Composed and relaxed at the crease, the pair continued in exactely the same vein. Dunbar reached his fifty with a boundary and it all seemed to become quite possible. Wright continued to plunder runs off the left armer and was running two's hard and even getting through for 3's on a couple of occassions.
Cranbourne, realising the imminent danger and embarrassment, tried various options without success and when Dunbar found a couple of sixes and a few more runs from one over, the equation had slimmed to just 15 runs off 5 overs.............
Wright, playing the knock of his season kept the runs ticking over with yet more beautiful shots off his legs and the crossbats looked home and hosed.
Dunbar drew the scores level with 3 overs remaining - This pair had put on 138 for the 7th wicket and had done the job. Jubelation was the feeling that gripped both batsmen and with a flick of the wrists, Dunbar hit the winning....................was OUT, caught at square leg! Oh how he would've loved to hit those winning runs! No matter, he had played his part brilliantly and finished with a season high 83 and rediscovered some form.
Lawrence came to the crease to get the job done and he did just that, sealing victory for crossbats from the most unlikely of positions. Wright was overjoyed and finished with a fabulous 43*.
This was one of Crossbats finest victory’s and it was just the type of result we had been searching for.
Next Sunday, it's the North London Muslims and following that we will come to you live from the sandy beaches of Rimini.
La cane nero é caro.
The Crossbats were bouyed by the previous evening's 20/20 success and had arrived focused on another victory.
Dunbar had a firm game plan after having suffered through some dismal time game efforts and when the coin landed it all kicked into action with the Crossbats skipper electing to field first.
Back in the picture and hoping to make up some ground on 2008 bolter Reeve, was Clive Lawrence. Lawrence was trusted with the new ball and it wasn't long before he was picking up wickets. The opening pair for Cranbourne were removed without fuss and Lawrence was looking at his best. Dunbar was keeping things tight from the castle end and the pressure was bringing wickets.
At 50/3 Crossbats were in a solid position. Fitch and Gumbley relieved the opening pair and continued to build the pressure, resulting in a good wicket to Fitch. Gumbley however was in the wars again and was struck whilst attempting a caught and bowled, bringing his spell to a premature end. The skipper then looked to his strike bowler Reeve for additional wickets. Unfortunately for Reeve this wasn't his day and the Cranbourne batsmen targeted him for some much needed momentum. Fraser was also employed to take wickets with similar results to Reeve and both were dragged before serious harm was done.
Ageing spin option Winch was afforded a handful of overs and would have had an early breakthrough had it not been for the slippery fingers of the captain. However, Winch was rewarded for some wylie bowling with a wicket to add to his impressive tally from Friday night.
Dunbar returned to the crease to pick up a wicket by virtue of a sharp catch from Winch at first slip and his opening partner Lawrence was also bought back on to claim his third and fourth wickets to finish his spell with an impressive 4 for.
Collier came on to perform the last rights, removing the final two batsmen and sending Cranbourne to tea with 165 to defend.
Crossbats had toiled in the field for 48 overs and given that this was a time game, they had been left 45 minutes and 20 overs to get the runs. Crossbats had feilded arguabley one of it's strongest batting lineups and all were confident of knocking off the runs in time for an early evening beer with Her Majesty.
Pineapple, rock melon and coconut were but a few of the delights on offer at the tea break and in the warm temperatures the tropical fruits were a big hit. Strangely ironic however was that the crossbats top order was not........
Collier and Spiro were first to the crease to face an upbeat Ray 'The Razor' Spencer aka Angry Anderson. It wasn’t long before Razor claimed his first victim, beating Collier with one that stayed low and sending him back to the hut for 0. Winch was in and out in a matter of moments, falling to a very sharp catch at silly mid on. Spiro was joined by Wright, who had a cool, calm feel about his approach. Unfortunately this didn't rub off on Spiro who was bowled moments later to leave the
Crossbats reeling at 12/3. Carter was in next and was looking to steady the ship, but it wasn't long before Razor got the better of him, bowling Carter for not many . Fitch looked to be in good touch, starting with a lovely boundary. He looked settled at the crease and it was a real blow to the crossbats when he was dismissed for 9, leaving the team languishing at 19/5. With hope's of victory fading fast, Fraser joined Wright at the crease and managed only 5 before he too was sent packing.
At 27/6 and 10 minutes + 20 overs remaining, Crossbats were in dire straits. Dunbar joined Wright at the crease and the pair had a brief discussion about saving face.
The pair managed to see off Razor Spencer, who's figures of 5/14 were more than impressive.
Wright and Dunbar negociated Crossbats to the first hurdle, 20 overs to play and 135 runs required. Spencer was replaced by some very average spin bowling and with personal enjoyment the only realistic achievement, Dunbar opened his shoulders and punished the bowling with a couple of boundaries and a six. Wright was comfortable at the other end facing the left arm seamer, picking runs off his legs at leisure and the pair took crossbats past fifty.
These two chaps were looking increasingly comfortable at the crease, turning the strike and hitting the bad ball, focused on what they could achieve personally and maybe, just maybe, hanging in there long enough to save the draw.
The longer they stayed the dimmer the Cranbourne mood became and a little in fighting began to creep in. Dunbar was looking in very good touch, driving cleanly and clearing the boundary rope on a handful of occassions. All of a sudden the scoreboard read 10 overs remaining and 60 runs required.......could this actually happen?
Composed and relaxed at the crease, the pair continued in exactely the same vein. Dunbar reached his fifty with a boundary and it all seemed to become quite possible. Wright continued to plunder runs off the left armer and was running two's hard and even getting through for 3's on a couple of occassions.
Cranbourne, realising the imminent danger and embarrassment, tried various options without success and when Dunbar found a couple of sixes and a few more runs from one over, the equation had slimmed to just 15 runs off 5 overs.............
Wright, playing the knock of his season kept the runs ticking over with yet more beautiful shots off his legs and the crossbats looked home and hosed.
Dunbar drew the scores level with 3 overs remaining - This pair had put on 138 for the 7th wicket and had done the job. Jubelation was the feeling that gripped both batsmen and with a flick of the wrists, Dunbar hit the winning....................was OUT, caught at square leg! Oh how he would've loved to hit those winning runs! No matter, he had played his part brilliantly and finished with a season high 83 and rediscovered some form.
Lawrence came to the crease to get the job done and he did just that, sealing victory for crossbats from the most unlikely of positions. Wright was overjoyed and finished with a fabulous 43*.
This was one of Crossbats finest victory’s and it was just the type of result we had been searching for.
Next Sunday, it's the North London Muslims and following that we will come to you live from the sandy beaches of Rimini.
La cane nero é caro.
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