This week we found ourselves back at home and facing Croydon Lions.
I lost the toss in what seems like the first time in ages and unsurprisingly we were asked to field. Last 5 games in a row we have batted first so our first mini challenge was to win a game chasing.
With Bhups still away I was left with a choice as to who would open the bowling. With Ian still creaking and needing to get warm, Prem opened up alongside the renowned opening bowler David ‘open the batting and bowling’ Stupples. With me questioning my own thinking, my decision was quickly justified when David picked up 3 quick wickets with some tight bowling. Prem toiled from the other end and bowled another great spell but found himself unlucky again and ended his spell without a wicket. David and Prem both deservedly bowled through all 9 and were replaced by Ian (finally warm ish) and Phil ‘new haircut’ Nacmanson from the other the end. Ian bowled his usual tight lines and picked up their 2 danger men. Both caught by Mr J Burns, one a particularly nice catch at cow corner. D Ransom pleased it didn’t go to deep square leg where he was fielding. Phil bowled a mixture of ‘unplayable & 4 ft down leg (one ball in particular) but all in all bowled a solid spell for the team. Not satisfied by just hiding in the batting line up, I now am enjoying bowling in the middle overs against the so called ‘weaker’ batsman. I found myself picking up 4 relatively quick wickets whilst Elliot kept the pressure on from the other end by bowling 6 tight overs. When Ian returned to clear up the tail they found themselves 138 all out. At tea we very much fancied our chances!
With a number of ‘regulars’ not around there were some opportunities for others to step up and stake a claim for a more regular spot. David ‘open the batting and bowling’ Stupples opened up alongside Burnsy. Both got us off to a solid start with David hitting some lovely shots. Burnsy looking solid until he was bowled for 11. A solid little innings that meant we were off to a good start at 40-1. Dan then came to the crease (not sure if he is more nervous than Will or not – maybe an end of season trophy for most nervous player up for grabs??) and joined David. David fell almost immediately to a superb slip catch off a big drive. At 40-2 we still had plenty to do as I came and joined Dan. We formed a good partnership with Dan seeing off their main opening bowler with ease and we both ticked the score along with solid defence and hitting the bad ball. By the time Dan fell caught at cover for 19 we were already up to 96. Will joined me at the crease and I am pleased to say I didn’t let the team down. My standard get us a close to winning and get out reared its head again when I was caught in the deep for 40 with us needing only 18 more. Els joined Will and they comfortably knocked the remaining runs off with ease with 14 overs remaining. Will finishing again not out (24) and Elliot not out for 6.
I have decided not to mention Symons’ slightly ropey keeping in this match report J as he was injured and I appreciate him still playing when clearly not even near 100%. Thanks buddy but next time at least take 1 stumping out of 10! J
It was another great win and again shows our strength in depth. Well played all!
A quick mention to the great man Lush. 2 weeks now where he has not had a bat. A big thanks Lush for being a good club man and not ‘whinging’. Your chances will come and your attendance is greatly appreciated!
Again more good catching from the team (except for one simple drop, we forgive you Prem if you keep bowling like you are).
Ian – 1 catch
Burns – 2 catches
Will – 1 catch
Stupples – 1 catch
Symo – 1 catch
FOD – Burns!
Cheers
Alex
Park Hill Cricket Club 