Waterbeach v Coton, 23 August 2008 - Fun in the sunshine - at last!

On what was probably the nicest afternoon for cricket so far this season, Coton ventured to Waterbeach. With the spectre of relegation hanging over our heads we knew that a win was vital to stay in Division 3. Waterbeach were still in with an outside shout of promotion. The team was strengthened by the return from injury of Chris Cooke, albeit as a specialist batsman, Paul Bradbury behind the stumps and Dave Hale.

Due a communication breakdown we took the field with just 10 men as Paul Norton was absent presumed having a good time. Waterbeach fielded two very small players (probably children but possibly hobbits), something that was to have a surreal effect on the game. Richard Allison won the toss and put Waterbeach in.

We started with the tactic that had worked against Cambourne in the previous game opening with George Speller and Rob Kaye. This is designed to lull the opposition into a false sense of security by eventually replacing Rob’s medium-slow wobblers (that’s the ball, not his beer gut) and unleashing the pace of Neil Sparnon.

Rob trundled in and removed both openers with the assistance of catches by Richard at point. There was plenty of movement in the air for the bowlers but it was a pretty true and bouncy wicket. After 10 overs the score was 28-2. It could have been better but with Dave Scotcher striving for the wickets that would get him to magic “25” for the season he decided to put down a chance at slip which was followed in the same over by Paul shelling one behind the stumps, both off Rob. Rob breathed a sigh of relief that the chance of him buying a jug 2 games running was receding. It was time for a double bowling change. Dave Scotcher opened with three wides and then tricked their number three with a straight one that cleaned him up: 19 and counting. In contrast Neil also surprised them by starting with a straight ball that was edged to the keeper. 30-4 and looking good but there was then the first of two largish partnerships. There was some keen fielding by the likes of George, Dave Hale and Al “The Sweeper” Carroll that kept the runs in check and eventually Dave made a double breakthrough courtesy of two smart catches by George.

From 68-6 another significant stand built up. George replaced Neil after a frustrating spell which resulted in many false strokes and several runs edged through the 3rd man area. Dave had been economical and accurate until he was tricked by Richard into expecting a full 10 overs. He then proceeded to get hit for 20 or more runs in his eighth and ninth overs. Rob came back on to replace Dave – now on 21 wickets - and combined with Paul to break what had become a worrying partnership. It was then that one of the most surreal passages of cricket took place.

The first of Waterbeach’s two juniors came in. I swear it was possible to see the stumps above his head. The umpire asked the bowlers to reduce their pace so Rob went from just faster than slow to very slow with the result that he was unable to bowl a straight ball. 5 successive wides became increasingly frustrating, but the over eventually finished. George removed the full sized batsman with a swirling catch to Andy East and we were down to the last pair (it being determined that the 2nd junior wouldn’t bat). More wides followed and a catch behind that wasn’t given added more frustration - which was eventually relieved by a run out. Waterbeach 119 all out: This was possibly 20 more runs than they should have made - had we got 11 men on the field from the start. Special thank to Julias (George's mate for putting the whites on after 25 overs). But nevertheless a good team effort on a good batting track.

Just how good became clear after tea. Chris and Neil opened and after a couple of overs judging the pace of the wicket the runs started to flow. Despite his assertion that he “only timed a couple of shots”, Chris was stroking the ball to all points on the compass. He was particularly adept at picking out the two juniors and repeatedly hitting full blooded drives in their direction (to their credit they coped very well). Neil was steady and decided to get his own back on all the edges that came off his bowling by playing some of his own (and telling anyone that would listen that he was still in credit). The opening partnership was worth 70 when Richard decided it was time that someone else got a bat. Neil missed a straight one and the big stride wasn’t enough to persuade the skipper there was an element of doubt that the ball would miss and up went the finger. George strode out to the wicket and was off the mark with a fine four off his first delivery. Chris continued to flay the bowling and the run rate grew. George was also playing some fine shots and we cruised past 100 with 1 wicket down.

George got himself out in bizarre circumstances. In attempting to cut a slow ball, he clipped (and broke) the bail with his bat and was out “hit wicket”. Dave Hale strode out and played a fine cameo of nought not out whilst Chris hammered the final 15 runs to take us to our target with 17 overs to spare. Chris finished on 81 not out and never looked in trouble: he was only denied a century by Coton reaching the target in quick time. So a very comprehensive win and a fine all round performance by the team.

Guys we are not safe yet but the table is looking alot better. It’s still possible for us to get relegated if we lose to Jesters next week and get less than 5 losing bonus points. On the other hand a win, or a cancelled game, or 5 bonus points will keep us up. Indeed a win, combined with a poor performance by Cottenham at Longstowe could see us as high as 4th. It’s been a funny old summer!!!!!

Highlights

• Chris’s 81 not out. Excellent batting in a 70 run partnership for the first wicket with Neil. Supported well by George for the 2nd wicket partnership.
• Good all round bowling: Rob and Dave 3 wickets each, George and Neil 1 but deserved more.
• Fielding: both on the ground (special mention for Allan Carrol in the deep) and 7 catches by the team.
• Bradders - 2 caught behind the stumps.
• Friendly opposition with both teams and supporters in the Sun Pub afterwards.

Lowlights

• Communication problems for Paul Norton. (Answer the emails, text messages, voicemail!). First time we had ten men all season.
• Rob bowling 9 wides: half the runs that were scored off his bowling. This could actually be a highlight if you consider the comedy factor!
• The Dave Scotcher Mayonnaise incident in the shower block.........where is that 1001 Carpet Cleaner???

Coton v Cambourne, 16 August 2008

The rain subsided and Coton finally got to play cricket at home (our last home game was 5th July!). We welcomed runaway league leaders Cambourne to Coton Recreation ground. Skipper Richard Allison won the toss and put Cambourne into bat.

From the very first ball it was clear that Cambourne had attacking intent. As Speller swung the ball Alan Carroll was performing heroics behind the stumps. "Rapier" Rob Kaye back in the team after a summer break was deadly accurate removing the Cambourne skipper in his second over. This bought Paul Cooke to the crease. You could have been forgiven for thinking that Sangakarra had been drafted into the Cambourne batting line up as Cooke racked up four 4's and a 6 in his 23. He fell to a straight one from Kaye. The very next ball Kaye took another wicket. The hatrick was on. Alas Cambourne's next bat had other ideas and decided to stick around. A double wicket maiden was not to be sniffed at. Coton were in the ascendancy. However Cambourne have a long batting line up and the job was only a third done.

Speller not to be outdone took a wicket at the other end. Cambourne fought back with the partnership of the match. Ever eager to get a bowl Dave Scotcher thought he would force the issue. As he took position, rearranged the field and the team called out change of bowler, Speller walked in from the boundary and took the ball to bowl. Allison told Scotcher to wash his ears out and sent him off to the covers. Both teams realised the comedy value of the bowling spell that never was. A change in bowling was required and both Scotcher and Sparnon got their chance. Cambourne skied several chances which fell agonisingly close to Coton fielders. Sparnon again had trouble with contact lenses. Fortunately Caroll was getting used to valiant dives behind the stumps!

It took something very special to remove "Honey" from the crease and a Scotcher full toss allowed Speller to run in from the boundary, sway a little and take a catch that had "snow" on it. Champagne moment. Perhaps it was the guest appearance by Coton legend Jim Schwabe in the drinks interval (Coton needed the X Factor). From this point forwards Coton began to cut through the Cambourne batting. Kaye and Scotcher were again in the wickets. Joseph rode his luck but finished on 24 not out as Kaye took the final wicket. Cambourne 173 all out in 39.4 Overs.

After a splendid tea from Pete Brooks (Sam), Coton went out to bat. Speller and Sparnon were swiftly removed by Cooke. Norton managed to survive for several overs. It was runs that Coton needed as it quickly became apparent that 173 runs was too many runs for Coton to chase. Skipper Allison was determined to gain a valuable batting bonus point. He was running out of partners as Kaye and East followed in quick succession. Caroll bruised from his keeping exploits proved a valuable ally. He dug in as the pair put on 32 runs. When Caroll fell, Allison went soon after. Cambourne sliced through the brittle tail of Coton to take victory. Coton 66 all out in 24 Overs.

Highs:

• Personal best club bowling figures for Rob Kaye - 9.4 Overs, 2 maidens, 5 wickets for 36 runs.
• Champagne Moment Nominee for George Spellers "Snowy" Catch.
• Elegant batting from Coton's Skipper Allison - top scoring with 25 runs.
• Champagne Moment Nominee for Dave Scotcher - the bowling spell that never was........

Lows:

• Batting, Batting, Batting. Aside Skipper Allison and Carroll no other batsmen made double figures - need I say any more?
• Letting Cambourne get 30 runs more than they should have.
• Lack of a wicket keeper hurt us. Valiant efforts from Caroll and East.
• Dropping into the relegation zone - as Comberton won!

Cambridge Jesters v Coton, 27 July 2008

A hot, humid and sticky afternoon on Papworth Village green saw Cambridge Jesters take on Coton. Richard Allison returned from an exotic twitching holiday in the Far East to skipper the Coton team. Immediate Success as he won the toss. After one look at the hard wicket, Coton's opening bowlers Neil Sparnon and George Speller both had ear to ear smiles. The rapid pace of Sparnon put the fear of god into Jesters opening batsmen. They weren't laughing as Speller weaved a swinging ball past the edge of Kennedy, gratefully received by Breward's gloves. It didn't take long for Sparnon to get in on the act as he banged in another fast short ball to A Shone who hopped out of the way but left his bat out there. Matt Harris returning from a knee operation dived low to his right and caught a spectacular catch in the gully. Coton were on top and made scoring difficult for the Jesters. Whilst J Turney rode his luck G Tomkinson was convinced that Sparnon was a "ringer" from the Tucker Premiership!!! Little did he know that whilst a diet of Pasta and sunshine can recharge the batteries, it does not prevent an errant contact lens affecting the radar. Sparnon had to leave the field in order to find some new lenses and adjust the sights.

Coton's newest spin maestro, Dave Scotcher was still nursing the effects of an injury. However he took a stunning caught and bowled, demonstrating a new "barrel" catching technique.........mine's a lager top! A jet lagged but determined Da Costa came to the crease. This is where he stayed throughout the Jesters innings as fellow batsmen came and went. Not before Speller, Harris and Scotcher pulled up lame with "tweaked hamstrings". Further catches were taken by Norton, Allison, East and Coton's newest young talent Oscar ("Haynes") Boatfield.

Jesters all out for 153 in 36.1 Overs

Following a pleasant tea and a game of darts, Coton's openers of Bradbury and Breward took the 'ockey (I mean field!) Whilst the father and son bowling partnership of A Shone and G Shone made run scoring tough for Coton it wasn't until the 11th over when Kennedy made the breakthrough. Bradbury missed a straight ball and Coton were 25 for 1. This bought George Speller to the crease. George was initially dealing in boundaries as his "hammy" was causing excruciating pain. Singles and byes were being spurned, so Speller called for a runner and Bradders stepped back into the breach. Normally when a runner is used, chaos and mayhem ensue. However Breward and Bradbury ran effortlessly between the wickets allowing Speller to wield his blade and runs came freely. Not to be outdone, Breward upped the ante and fours were flowing from both ends. Just before drinks Speller missed a slower ball from Kennedy and his furniture was rearranged. 97 for 2. This soon became 97 for 3 as Norton got a snorter first ball up and trudged back to the pavillion. Quack, quack, quack.

Skipper Allison realised that whilst Coton were well ahead of the run rate, only 57 required with 21 overs remaining, the middle order has "crumbled before". Both Breward and Allison stroked the ball past the infield as Jesters could not stop the boundaries. Fittingly Breward hit the winning runs with a four.

Coton made 156 for 3 wickets in 28 overs. Coton victory by 7 wickets.

Highs:

• Superb fielding from Oscar on his league debut. Another investment in the new youth policy.
• Rapid bowling from Neil Sparnon - (10 overs, 1 maiden, 3 for 32) - Coton's Premiership "ringer" :))))
• Alastair Breward scoring a career best 65 not out.
• Catches, Catches Catches - 7 in total. Must be some kind of a club record. Champagne Catch from Matt Harris. Comedy Catch from Dave Scotcher.

Lows:

• Hamstring injuries to 3 bowlers - are they contagious?
• Letting Jesters get 40 more runs than they deserved
• I can't think of any more - WE WON!

Romsey Town v Coton, 18 July 2008

On a windswept but sunny afternoon on Fitzwilliam College ground Coton fielded a youthfull team - Away to Romsey Town. With the opening bowling of Speller and Scotcher, Coton kept it tight. Speller quickly took the edge and Breward dived low to his right for a classic bowlers wicket. Speller and Scotcher worked in tandem as the Romsey team found the opening overs tough to score from. Romsey's number three batsmen was determined not to give his wicket away and the running between the wickets put pressure on the Coton fielders. The partnership between Dennis and Owen put on 60 runs. Billy Haynes took 2 wickets and proved a handful for Romsey. Ross Chandler bowled 10 very accurate overs on the bounce. Speller came back on and took 2 further wickets as did Scotcher. Coton fielding was athletic and helped restrict Romsey to 159 for 9 in 40 overs.

This surely was a gettable target on a lush Fitzwilliam outfield. Paul Bradbury and Ross Chandler opened up to some very frugal bowling from Gopal and Jordan. The first 3 overs were maidens. Bradbury got on the board with a 4 as did Chandler but the going was still tough. The scoreboard started to tick along nicely until Chandler was stumped by some lightning work from the Romsey Skipper/Keeper. The game seemed to change quickly as Bradders followed quickly into the hutch after missing a straight one. Breward didn't trouble the scorers(not the only player to get a duck on the day). Coton's spirits were lifted as Speller and Hale began to score freely. On the last ball before drinks Speller wafted at a wide one and the Romsey keeper gratefully accepted. East got a goldie and Coton's innings was on the slide. Hale also went with the score still on 68. Paul Norton and Dave "all-rounder" Scotcher decided to show the top order how it should be done. The pair put on 28 valuable runs and earned Coton a much needed batting bonus point. When Scotcher was caught in the slips, Norton was left to shepherd the tail. I think talk of paying a "fiver" for a "six" proved too tempting for Coton's younger players as both Adam and Billy struck out for a coconut. Norts was left stranded (nice Red Inker though!) as Pete also went for a goldie. Coton all out for 98 in 36.2 overs.

Highs:

• Coton's new youth policy - good to see Billy and Adam lively in the field and taking wickets
• 3 wickets and 19 runs for Dave Scotcher - Coton's new "All-Rounder" in more ways than one. :))))
• A crucial run partnership from Paul Norton and Dave Scotcher - No and Go sound very similar Norts

Lows:

• Runs, runs, runs - let's get our team "mojo" back and score some.....
• 5 Ducks - Let's bat ugly and tough out some runs.
• Waiting 10 seasons to play a league game on a College ground - only to fluff it.

Coton Crusaders v Cambourne v Abington, 5/6 July 2008

Well, we had two matches last weekend.

On Saturday we took a young team (almost all 9 or under) to Cambourne and played a 13-a-side kwik cricket match against a team which boasted mainly 10, 11 and 12 year olds! In the Circumstances Crusaders put up a good and enthusiastic show, but were thoroughly beaten! Looking on the bright side, everyone seemed to enjoy the game and the U9s are learning lots about how matches work.

On Sunday Ross and I took an older team over to Abington. Abington you may remember provided our first opposition (all of 1 month ago) and soundly beat us. Anyway, a 14-a-side incrediball match started at 10.15 and Coton took to the field. I have to say that all of our team bowled well and fielded well - the team was unrecognisable from that first match and we resticted Abington to 258.

The Coton response started badly, with a number of wickets falling in the first two overs, albeit mainly to blond-haired Ollie - a county player! But Coton had strength and depth in our batting (which is more than can be said for the adult team!). Gradually we pulled ourselves back into the match. With the final pair (William & Hugh) walking to the wicket we needed about ten or so to win. What ensued was a mixture of sublime strokes, quick scampering and absolutely bonkers running between the wickets - in about equal measure. The scoreboard couldn't keep pace with the frenetic activity. By the time of the final delivery we thought we were ahead, but then a catch was spooned back to the bowler. Abington went potty - they thought they'd won - but then slowly the mechanical scoreboard started to move. A Hush decended, and eventually the scoreboard stopped, on

259

It took a while for the combined intellect of Coton kids and parents to work out the implications of this, and then all hell broke loose - Coton Crusaders win by ONE RUN!

An absolutely fantastic match with contributions from every player. Also, I have to say, thanks to all the parents (and grandparents) that turned out on both days.

A coaching session this coming weekend will be good, since there is plenty to work on for all age groups, but Chris, George, Ross and I all agree that all the kids are improving as the year unfolds.

See you on Saturday

Coton v Longstowe II, 5 July 2008

If a week in politics is a long time, a week at Coton Cricket Club is an aeon. On a distinctly "green" home wicket on the Recreation Ground, Dave Hale Coton's skipper lost the toss. The Coton innings spiralled downwards from that point on. Chris Cooke gave an edge in the first over. Ross Chandler and Dave Hale went to snorters in quick succession. Paul Bradbury decided it was time to weigh anchor and dug in for several overs but fell on 11. East and Kaye came and went as Breward continued to notch up a score. In Ed Darling he found a partner who was prepared to run for everything and the pair made the highest partnership (30 runs) of either team in the match. When Darling was given out LBW, Breward quickly followed suit. Coton's momentum slowed drastically. Coton struggled to 84 all out.

After Paul Norton's Tea's (I thought they were great fella - Chris wasn't so sure), Coton took to the field with some gusto and immediately put pressure on Longstowe II's. Cooke's rapid pace and accuracy unnerved the opposition. Rewards came quickly as Reynolds was dismissed. It took a dynamic piece of on the run fielding from Billy Haynes to dismiss John Murden. Longstowe wickets began to fall in quick succession as Cooke had his Dander up. Ross Chandler who was very unlucky with several appeals finally got a ball to "roll" under the bat to dislodge the wickets - despite appealing for an LBW. Rob Kay and Dave Scotcher also got amongst the wickets as the game sat on a knife edge. Christopher Burling, Longstowe's fine opening bowler weathered the storm and a dropped catch to stay unbeaten on 12 runs. He received able support from Fox and Gooch as Coton could not take the final wicket. Longstowe II's finished on 89 for 9 in 38.4 overs. Coton lost by 1 wicket.

Highs:

• Billy Haynes superb run out.
• 4 wickets for 13 runs from Chris Cooke - despite some "Egg Roll" Salmanella belly.
• A crucial 30 run partnership from Alastair Breward and Ed Darling
• Alastair Breward top scored with 33 runs (Bradders added a stoical 11 runs)

Lows:

• Runs, runs, runs - let's get our team "mojo" back and score some.....
• 24 Extras - Longstowe's top scorer was Extras with 19 wides, 1 no ball and 4 leg byes. mmmm on a low scoring day!!!!!
• 3 dropped catches - 2 of them could have taken the final wicket and snatched a victory from the jaws of defeat.
• Losing a tight game that we could and should have won. The Beer doesn't taste as good afterwards.

Over II V Coton, 29 June 2008, Debut's, Donut's, Yogic Run Out's, 5 For's.......Over and certainly Not Out!!!!

Picture a sunny afternoon on an idyllic village green surrounded by a swathe of wispy trees and you could almost have been at Over on Saturday. Skipper Richard Allison won the toss and put the home team into bat on a decidedly green pitch. The Coton 11 buoyed by their pre-match meal of mini Jam Donuts courtesy of Dave Hale (you need to keep your energy levels up!), immediately began to exert pressure on Over. Both Cooke and Speller kept it tight in the first 6 overs with four maidens as Over battled to 16 for none. In the 7th Cooke got a well deserved breakthrough with an LBW that even Dickie Bird would have given. Skipper Allison decided it was time to "blood" Coton debutante Billy Haynes. As the wind got up it was clear that Haynes had been given the wrong end (or perhaps he had not eaten a donut), as Over scored 14 runs from his first 2 overs. Credit to the skipper and vice captain Dave Hale as they realised this and switched ends for Haynes. This bought quick results as Haynes showed good pace and immediately took an edge. Unfortunately it was not taken but the next over Haynes took his first league wicket as Bradders gratefully received a top edge. At the other end Cooke feasted on a double wicket maiden.

Over's M Ford proved dogmatic with his deft leg glances and quick running. He found a willing partner in S Friend as Over pushed on to 119 for 6. In Speller's second spell a fine pick up and throw finally managed to dislodge Ford. In his very next over the double act of Speller and Bradbury used a Rugby pass and a mid air yogic swipe to break the bails and claim another run out. Momentum was with Coton. Cooke got angry as a plumb lbw was not given so promptly finished off the tail with some rapid pace and accuracy. Over all out for 149 runs in 37.4 overs.

After another fine tea - no donuts required the Coton innings began with Cooke and Bradbury in earnest. When Stuart Faben opened up with some indifferent bounce it seemed the in-form Cooke would make hay. Alas the next over Cooke skied a simple catch to Willis. Bradbury dug in at one end whilst Speller picked off Faben at every opportunity. George was certainly in the mood to hit big with four 4's and 2 sixes before being caught by friend at long on for 38 runs. Bradbury's eye was in as he grew in confidence and hit his first ever on drive for four runs. The elation got the better of him as he wafted at a straight one only to see the furniture rearranged. Dave Hale and Skipper Allison started to move the scoring rate along before Hale top edged a ball from Wilkinson as Smith from Over started what proved to be a catching spree.

Allison in need of some runs this season, showed he has not lost his guile and timing as he effortlessly flicked 4's off his legs. At the other end East decided to stick around and christen the new bat. The partnership put on a valuable 22 runs before East took on a suicidal single (was Neil Sparnon playing?) and ran himself out. Coton were on 117 runs with 5 wickets remaining and 18 overs to get them in. Previous games have seen Coton's middle order and tail crumble under the pressure. Not today. Scotcher strode out with a target of 4 runs an over. The skipper who was in fine touch holed out to Smith the very next over. Whilst Scotcher stuck to the plan of 4 an over, Norton had not heard the instructions and promptly went for a duck. Billy Haynes showed promise with Scotcher running in a strained manner and called for a runner. Firstly Ed Darling (yet to bat) walked out with permission from the Over team. Chis Cooke saw that leadership was required and padded up. As Haynes was bowled Ed Darling switched positions and Cooke grasped the running mantra. Any nick or nurdle by Scotcher or Darling heard the scream of run from Cooke. The Over opposition were as bemused as Coton's 2 umpires Hale and East - as the Coton trio worked on the shout loudest running policy of "hit it and scarper". When Scotcher (with a "tweaked" hamstring) who contributed a valuable 7 runs, fell on 139 for 9 wickets, to another Smith catch, Pete Brooks was determined not to let the side down. 11 runs required for victory. Ed Darling scampered through for run after run. 7 runs were required from the last 6 balls. When Darling hit 4 runs from the first ball, the Coton bench erupted. Only 3 runs required with 5 balls remaining. 1 run from the next ball followed by Darling and following 2 dot balls another 1 valuable run from Brookes. The score was level with the last ball remaining. Drake tossed up a "moonbeam" of a ball. Darling could not quite get his driver (I mean bat) to the pitch of the ball, but scraped it to backward point and scarpered. Alas the Over fielder Cookson had a dead arm and the stumps were Feng Shui'd. The game was tied.

Matches like this are what makes you realise that summers days are meant to be savoured. Forget the shopping, the Cafe latte's and the activity breaks. Play cricket it's great !!!!

Highs:

• Billy Haynes taking his first league wicket on debut.
• 5 wickets for 15 runs for Chris Cooke.
• Ed Darling making his highest Coton score of 13.
• The Coton Tail finally wagged - long overdue and long may it continue.
• George Speller with 2 run outs in 2 overs - including a Yogic mid air catch and crash from Bradders.
• A friendly drink with the Over team in the pub afterwards.

Lows:

• We didn't win......but that would be nit picking

Coton v Waterbeach, 21 June 2008, Midsummer Madness on Coton Rec.......

It’s a tradition for which origins are lost in the mist of time. They say that in the olden days men erected two sets of three wooden poles in the ground to cast the shadows of the midsummer sun and then donned strange white garb to perform arcane rituals around the poles. They appealed to the god known as Umpire with strange cries of "Howzat" and greeted each other with shouts of "run" and "wait" whilst wearing strange accoutrements that many historians believe to be vestiges of former armour. Meanwhile loyal servants prepared banquets in the fabled pavilions so that the hungry revellers could feast and gain strength.

Well, maybe. Anyone looking for shadows at Coton Recreation this Midsummer would have been hard pressed to spot any as the current acolytes of cricket took the field against Waterbeach. Grey clouds covered the sky and the ritual proceeded under the continual threat of rain, although there were no more than a few drops during the game. There were several enforced changes in the team from last week’s victory at Cambourne: most notably in the bowling attack where three key purveyors were missing. As a result the bowling was opened by Ross Chandler and Rob Kaye: hardly the fastest attack in the world but fast was not to be the order of the day. The morning drizzle had made the pitch treacherous which Rob soon discovered as he fell over delivering his first ball (the surprised batsman was unable to score off it). Ross and Rob delivered tight opening spells, Rob bowling both openers before handing the ball to Dave Scotcher who proceeded to take the third Waterbeach wicket with his second delivery. Ross bowled unchanged through to drinks at which point Waterbeach were 55-4.

Bowling became steadily more difficult as the ball absorbed more and more moisture. Dave bowled through his ten overs without anymore wickets. Richard took over from Ross and bowled tidily taking the 5th wicket but an ominous 6th wicket stand developed and this was to ultimately put the game beyond Coton’s reach. The umpires declined a number of LBW and stumping appeals: since when has "I wasn’t paying attention" been a legitimate reason for turning down one of the more blatant stumpings? The fielding degenerated somewhat and it took the introduction of Ed Darling to break the partnership. Ed proceeded to take 2 wickets in his short spell, Richard taking the only catch of the innings. Rob returned to close out the innings. In his early spell the ball had been swinging extensively but the sodden ball offered no such incentive now and no further wickets were taken. Waterbeach finished on 162-7, the exact same total that Cambourne had gained the previous week. Could Coton do it again?

After a fine tea provided by Janet Scotcher, Ross and Richard opened the reply. Ross continued his form from where he had left off the previous week striking the ball around the ground. The opening partnership had reached 35 before Richard was bowled: his contribution to that stand was being just 3. Dave Hale came and went quickly and then Alastair joined Ross for a steadying stand. While Ross was there victory looked distinctly possible but he was unfortunate to drag a wide ball onto his stumps and departed for 42. The scoring rate slowed and the target crept up to 5 and then 6 runs per over needed. Acceleration was the order of the day in the last dozen overs but attempting to do this precipitated a mini-collapse with Mike Bullard and Al Carroll departing to successive deliveries. Alastair was still providing stability at one end: could the tail wag for once and hit the 80 or so runs now needed?

For once the Care Bear family got some runs. Firstly Rob hit a couple of cracking boundaries before departing to an expansive shot of Waterbeach’s best bowler. Alistair eventually went for a hard-fought 19 followed by Rads and Dave both making useful contributions. The innings was brought to a close by Paul Norton being run out off the final ball: "not-out Norts" finally being
out. In the end we came up 25 runs short in an even match that was just shaded by Waterbeach.

The Coton team and many of the Waterbeach team retired down to the pub for the final phase of the Midsummer celebrations. In recognition of the changing sensibilities in these modern times we decided to skip the part involving the sacrifice of naked virgins*.
Next week its off to Over all being well. See you there.

(*Because we couldn’t find any).

Highs:
- Ross Chandler making 42 runs on a tough day to score runs
- Ed Darling taking 2 for 15 in 3 overs - removing the top 2 scorers for Waterbeach.
- Alastair Breward made a sustained batting effort and helped the the tail to Wag.......check out the scorecard!!!
Lows:
- Unable to "restrict" Waterbeach to a reasonable total.......perhaps a day to implement the sweeper earlier.......
- A "misly" day that needed some Coton sunshine to pour on the runs......next week, next week.
- A dropped catch from Coton's Silver Fox - aka Mike Bullard.....bump ball or not!

Next week its off to Over all being well. See you there.

Coton Crusaders v Ashwell, 14 June 2008, Coton Crusaders v NCI

More milestones passed for Coton Crusaders over the weekend and yesterday. On Saturday we had an absolutely thriving Recreation Ground since Ashwell brought along U11 and U9 teams. The Under11s played their first 'proper' cricket match - hard ball, pads etc..., coached and supported by Chris and Ross. Coton lost a competitive match by just 14 runs, and it might have been different but we retired a few batsmen along the way. Anyway, a great experience to get the U11s playing the 'senior' form of the game.

Mike & George looked after the U9s and Crusaders were able to field two teams for the Kwik cricket. The first match was lost by a mere two runs, the second match by a bigger margin but still great experience for everyone.

I reckon we had about 65 children on the Rec last Saturday, and every single one got to play in a matchagainst the visitors if they wanted it!

On Monday night Chris, Ross and I took a group over to Churchill College to play NCI on an absolutely fantastic wicket. The teams batted for 22 overs each using an 'incrediball' - a hybrid between a real cricket ball and a kwik cricket ball. Coton, captained expertly by Hollie, fielded first and conceded about 20 runs in their first over! But as the innings progressed the team exerted more and more control on the batsmen, with at least two outstanding catches in the deep and a run out. NCI scored 280 in their 22 overs. Coton's response was typified by some excellent scoring shots interspersed with absolutely kamakaze running and calling between the wickets! The final few overs became very challenging with NCI crowding the batsgirls, but Hollie, Lara and Beth held out. The final score was 306 - Coton win by 26 runs!!

For this coming Saturday we revert to a more sedate coaching session starting at 10.00 on the Rec. However, I will be taking a team to Cambourne to play a match. Many of those who didn't get a chance to play last night will have an opportunity and I'll be in touch with parents individually about that later.

That's all for now... Mike and Chris

Reciprocity or Catches, Big Daddy Splashes and Smashing Batting at Camberwick Green (nae Cambourne!), Cambourne v Coton, 14 June 2008

Coton CC paid a visit to the hitherto unbeaten league leaders Cambourne last weekend. It was obvious that some thought had been put into the ground and an attempt had been made to make it look like a village green. It was surrounded by an array of houses of various styles (was it really deliberate that the ones behind the bowlers arms were painted in light colours to act as sight screens?) and who knows, in 100 years time when the saplings have become trees it might even be a pleasant place to play. In the meantime the environs still have a sense of desolation and you can imagine tumbleweeds blowing across the pitch on windy days. And, can someone explain why the changing rooms are across the street?

It was a strong Coton side that took the field with Chris taking a break from new parenting duties and Ross coming back into the team. There were certainly plenty of bowling options for the Richard to call on but – unsurprisingly – we opened with Chris & George. There was plenty of life in the track and a fast outfield. An initial wayward over from George soon gave way to accurate spells by both openers. There was plenty going on to keep them and the fielders interested but it took the first of several outstanding catches to break the opening partnership. Mike Bullard leaped to his right like a silver salmon taking on a waterfall to haul in a sharp chance off George.

A double switch to spin precipitated the next breakthrough, Ross coming on from one end and Dave Scotcher from the other. While Ross wheeled away through his 10 overs from one end taking two wickets (good catches from Richard and Neil) it proved not to be Dave’s day. The pitch wasn’t suited to his particular talents and although the ball was frequently in the air it contrived to avoid the field on all occasions. After three overs a visibly exasperated Dave got the hook to make way for Neil Sparnon to bowl at the non-descript end that wasn’t quite the same as the other non-descript end.

Prior to the game, Dave had been trying to get people to bet on whether Neil would start with his traditional wide. This seemed to inspire the latter to do something unexpected and open up with a straight ball that almost took the batsman by surprise. Had they been doing some scouting? It was the precursor to a spell of aggressive bowling that was punctuated by another fine catch from Rob Kaye lumbering in off the cow corner boundary, almost misjudging the distance and ending with a dive to make up for the slow reactions.

Cambourne arrived at the 30 over mark with just 4 wickets down and an ominous looking total on the board. The remaining overs didn’t yield as many runs as they wanted due to good spells of controlled hostility from the returning openers, Chris and George. Both hit the stumps and each contrived a more interesting dismissal. Alistair “Teflon Gloves” Breward was alert to one of their batsman taking guard outside the crease and not bothering to get back in after a play-and-miss. Alistair threw down the stumps and followed with more of an apology than an appeal: but the batsman reluctantly had to depart. There was some debate as to whether this was a stumping or a run-out. It went in the book as the former – possibly the first ever off George – and a subsequent post-mortem proved it to be the correct decision. The final wicket was a catch at short cover by Andrew East. Well, more of a “nurse” than a “catch” as the sharply hit ball lodged between chest and arm. After a short search the ball was recovered and the wicket was given. Cambourne finished on 162-8 which was considerably less than they had looked like getting. Tight bowling and good fielding kept the total to something reachable on a quick scoring track. But given our recent batting frailties would it be too much?

To mitigate against our precipitous collapses, Richard tried a new tactic dropping Neil down the order to act as a shepherd to the tail should we require a scramble for runs at the end. We will never know if the tactic would have worked as Chris and Ross proceeded to knock off the runs unbeaten with 7 overs to spare. They hit half centuries (Chris - 78 and Ross - 55) of contrasting styles and never really looked in trouble (to their knowledgeable colleagues) against some decent but unpenetrative bowling.

On the sidelines the remaining putative batsmen debated whether a wide that goes to the boundary counted 5 or 4 to while away the time between some classy stroke play. As the appeals got more desperate and the fielding more despondent our openers saw us home with a flurry of boundaries to a 10 wicket win against league leaders that were no longer undefeated.

And so to the Monkfield Arms where 10 Coton players were joined by several members of Cambourne team, and after an hour or so by Alistair who had decided to go and do his shopping at the adjacent Morrisons before getting a beer (note: get your priorities sorted). It is the mark of a pub that has connections to cricket that it will have jugs available for 50s or 5 wicket halls. That the Monkfield didn’t have jugs, it tells us that the pub – like Cambourne in general – still has a few years to go to reach maturity. The Marstons Pedigree was quite nice though.

As we reflected on a fine all round effort and the contrast from the debacle at Comberton thoughts turned to impending visit of Waterbeach to the Rec.

See you next week. Rob.

Highs:

• Superb Team Fielding - 5 Top Drawer Catches - Bullard, Allison, Sparnon, Kaye and East
• Another Stumping from Alastair Breward - taking glovemanship to new levels....must have been drinking Carlsberg.....probably!
• A Club Record Opening Partnership - of 166 (Chris Cooke 78 not out and Ross Chandler 55 not out)

Lows:

• No Rosy Lea at Tea
• Andy's 'Big Daddy Splash' on a reclining Neil. 'You don't want to see that lot coming at you at pace...' You can still see the dent.
• I can't think of anything else - what a belter of a day

First Ever Win(s) for Coton Crusaders!, 7/8 June 2008

We had a very busy weekend! On Saturday we played our first competitive match at home against Abington. Abington were keen, to say the least - arriving 40 minutes early and proceeded to perform intimidatory and complicated warm up excercises! At five to ten it looked like Coton would be represented by Patrick Butterfield against 14, but the Coton sleepyheads eventually arrived and the game kicked off. The teams were pretty much evenly matched but Abington's experience of playing matches showed and they turned out eventual winners by about 50 runs.

On to Sunday and the Kwik cricket festival. Coton fielded only one team so we realise that many kids might have missed out - we'll do our best to rectify that in the next few weeks. Anyway, 12 teams competed in this NCI festival held on Parker's Piece. Chris and I took a Coton team down, ably supported by Mums & Dads. There were three groups in the group stage and the winners of each group went onto the semi finals with the best performer from all groups making up the 4th semi final place. Coton started by playing Cokenach. after posting a criditable score Coton took to the field and in our first over took 4 wickets! (well done Adam). It looked like plain sailing. However Cokenach responded well and ran in eventual winners by just 4 runs. Hard luck Coton, and more about Cokenach later!

Next to play, as the sun came out, was St Giles. Improving bowling displays and some fine strokeplay, particularly from Hugh Bishop, allowed Coton to romp home by a margin of about 30 runs. OUR FIRST EVER VICTORY!!!

From here on the performances just got better, with everyone contributing as we despatched the T&W team by a considerable margin, thanks to an all round performance from all players including 2 excellent catches. As the matches progressed so the amount of banter on the field increased, with some hilarious advice offered from all quarters; all positive and team focused, of course.

Then, a long wait while the fate of Coton and their 2 out of 3 victories position was deliberated. In the end we didn't quite do enough to gain a semi final place but we surged on to contest the "Plate" - the runners up trophy.

We had our first semi-final against Cokenach (the team that we had lost to by a small margin earlier). Team selection was a challenge and after deft use of a 2p coin, the team took the field. Cokenach batted first and through a great display of bowling and fielding from the Coton team, were restricted to only adding 17 runs to the 200 that they started with. It was a very different situation when Coton batted, the runs flowed freely and we ended the innings having scored 74 runs in our 8 overs, which turned out to be the highest score of the day. On to the final…

We arrived at the pitch for the final to find the Hardwick team already on the pitch. They had a convincing win in their semi-final and were looking forward to putting the “new boys” in their place. Paolo Mastroeni strode out to the pitch as captain ready to toss the coin, team selection having been made more simple by Hollie Cooke agreeing to stand-down for the final. Having taken the advice of his team, when he won the toss he elected to field. It was clear form the start that this Hardwick team were a step up from any other team we had played so far – their opening batsmen quickly got into their stride and the runs started to flow. It was a great credit to the Coton team that they did not panic and after a couple of good catches the Hardwick team were pegged back a little. However, Hardwick had saved their best batsmen for last and the final two overs saw a flurry of runs to take Hardwick up to a very respectable score – this was going to be a tough target!

Despite some very tight bowling from Hardwick, the Coton innings moved along just behind the required run rate. Having learned from previous matches, the team were very keen not to give away their wickets and moved the score along nicely. However, the bowler of the penultimate over produced some very tight spin bowling which tied the scoring down and left an improbable target off the last over (sorry, I didn’t count exactly what we needed - the umpire was busy trying to signal how many runs were needed and seemed to be holding up a lot of fingers – lots of times!). The final pair began to score freely and a four and a six were thrashed to the boundary to leave seven required off the last two balls (the umpire could finally manage to adequately signal the required runs using his two hands and without having to resort to semaphore). The pressure suddenly seemed to hit the Hardwick bowler: The second last ball sailed wide down the leg-side and was signalled “wide” (in this form of cricket, 2 runs and no extra ball). So we were left needing 5 runs from the last ball, with Adam Bradbury facing. No longer able to shout “Line and length!” or “Don’t get out!” to his team mates, Adam was left with the team’s fortunes on his shoulders. The parents and supporters went quiet and awaited the final ball…

The bowler ran in and bowled a “juicy” full-toss which Adam summarily dispatched over the mid-wicket boundary for 6. To their immense credit, the team managed to hold their most exuberant celebrations until after a sporting “Three Cheers” for Hardwick and having shaken hands with their opposition. There then followed much celebration, air-punching and for some obscure reason, the boys diving into what can only be described as a “big pile” (a suspicion that this has been learnt from Neil Sparnon's 'how to celebrate a goal' sessions held regularly on Coton Rec). The presentation followed with T-Shirts and medals for all and a short photo-session for their admiring public (parents). The final celebrations over, and having stretched the finish time by at least an hour, we headed off home – satisfied with a fantastic effort from the players, wonderful support from the parents, the two coaches finally able to breathe again and in the knowledge that Coton Crusaders have most definitely “arrived”.

Thanks to all the kids and parents that took part and all of the other Coton Crusaders who have contributed to a great start to Coton's competitive career.

Comberton v Coton, 7 June 2008

After a humping from Granta IV's the previous Sunday (who wants to play in the Junior I mean Senior Cup anyway!), Coton had another away day at Comberton. The wet outfield, with rather high grass should have made Coton feel at home in the field. Speller opened up with 2 maidens. Alas Neil Sparnon's first over was wayward. Comberton's Captain Hartwright and number 2 batsmen Wick took an early opportunity to fill their boots. The tone had been set for the first ten overs as Comberton were 39 for 0. Luckily for Coton the "lush" outfield (see picture) held the ball and 4's were at a premium. Coton's bowlers were being picked off at 4 runs an over by the opening bats.

It wasn't until the 19th over when Scotcher made a well needed breakthough. Speller dived gazelle like and stretched with his left hand, scooping the ball afore it landed in the green outfield. Wick was gone for 18 runs. Champagne moment nominee. This moment of brilliance lifted the Coton team and whilst Comberton had made a good start, Scotcher had found his groove. Another 3 wickets fell in his next 2 overs. 2 stumpings from Alastair Breward and a tasty catch from Pete Brookes unerved Comberton. Pressure was building at the other end as Richard Allison also found a mean streak. After a run-out and a diving catch from Sparnon, coton were into the tail. A mini revival from Selby and Collins did not last long as Kay and Speller wrapped up the tail. Comberton 136 All out.

When Coton openers Sparnon and Breward took the field, Comberton were more frugal with the bowling. Swift opened with 3 maidens followed by a wicket maiden, picking up the wicket of Sparnon who played on. Speller decided to pick up the pace and ably assisted by Breward the scorers were awoken from slumber. When Breward was run out Dave Hale decided that clubbing of bad balls was the order of the day. Coton seemed in control as the speed of scoring tested the scorers powers of arithmatic. The Comberton fielders were in the ditch, several times.

Alas the good times came to an abrupt end as Coton hit the self -destruct button. First Hale then Allison (goldie) fell in an over from Cook. George Speller lost his wicket in the next over from Swift as panic swept through the Coton ranks. The comedy value to the spectators was all to apparent as the tail were skittled faster than Lewis Hamilton in a Canadian pit lane. Coton made average bowlers look good. All out for 112 in 36.4 overs. 25 runs short of victory. If it were a school report it would read - shows signs of promise, must learn to concentrate and try a little harder!!!!

Highs:

• Superb Team Fielding - Catches, Run-Outs, Backing Up, Support in the Field.
• 3 Stumpings from Alastair Breward - Must be a club record. Must check the statisitics.
• Another 4 wicket haul from Dave Scotcher - Although a club fine should be imposed for "jug avoidance".
• "Champagne Moment" - A superb diving 1 handed catch by George Speller

Lows:

• Woefull Batting - except for George Speller (37) and Dave Hale (29).
• Lack of a middle order batting "plan" - we need to use the nets to gain some confidence
• Umpiring - Everyone needs to do a stint - if you don't know the rules - learn them!!!
• Scorebook - Guys PLEASE let's try and make the bowling and batting add up.......I have "massaged" the figures again this week as the book didn't add up

Granta IV v Coton, 1 June 2008

Sometimes cricket is just great. The sun shines, it's a good game, sometimes we even win and get to talk it over in the pub as the sun sets (see Remnants below). And then there are matches like this...

Well what can we say about yesterday's complete pummelling from Granta IV's, nae Granta 1's, 2's and 3's? Ross Chandler captained a Coton team to possibly one of the biggest defeats in our history. Not surprising when you think that most of the Granta IVth team happily play their cricket at a far higher level than Junior 3 - to put it mildly.

On a hazy and soggy Sunday afternoon, Coton lost the toss and were fielding. Initially with 10 men as Eddy was carding his lowest golf score for some time...however the ten men valiantly toiled away whilst seeing the ball carted to all corners of the lush outfield. Time seemed to stand still as 2 after 2 after 2 was hit by Granta. Eventually the bar of soap that was disguising itself as a cricket ball hit the stumps, several times and Mark Carrington took an outstanding catch in the deep. Granta 225 for 4 wickets in 40 overs.

Following a splendid tea, Coton set about the daunting total. Speller and Sparnon looked confident at the crease. When Sparnon was caught and bowled, A East strode to the crease and slumped back again after a goldie. Coton batsmen came and went offering little resistance save for Chandler with his "steamy" glasses. Granta's answer to Murali did his best to sling his way through 5 wickets. The overspin faster ball to dismiss Dave Pye was as blatant a throw as you will ever see. Coton all out for 58. Look on the bright side. I won't be hassling you to play on a Sunday - until next season!!!!!

Highs:

• Mark Carrington's triple of dropped catch, amazing catch and batsmen running 4 to his "tired" arm. 'Sod it!';
• 9 Coton players and Sam in the Granta tent knocking back beers afterwards. 6 of the theirs players were "drinking" coke!!!;
• Old School Teas - just like your granny used to make

Lows:

• Woefull Batting - except for George Speller and Ross Chandler
• A Pie Chucking bowler for Granta taking 5 wickets for next to nothing - not that it made any difference...

Longstowe II v Coton, 24 May 2008

Coton v Romsey Town, 17 May 2008

Amazing. Warm weather all week except for Thursday night at nets when we all got soaked, and Saturday morning when the kids were rained off too. I knew I was tempting fate when I put the tent up. Idiot. And Cardiff lost the cup too. Pah.

Cottenham II v Coton, 10 May 2008: Coton Care Bears feast in Cottenham Woods... erm Rec!

On a sweltering Saturday in Cottenham Woods, well the ground was surrounded by trees, Coton put in a tour de force performance to beat Cottenham II's by 105 runs.

After winning the toss Cottenham decided to make use of any possible moisture in a pitch that looked decidedly green and put Coton into bat. However someone forgot to tell the Cottenham bowlers that to make good use of the pitch, the ball needs to land on it!!! Coton's openers Chris Cooke and Neil Sparnon seemed to have little trouble working the ball and runs came at more than 4 an over. Perhaps the runs were flowing too easily as a mix up in the calling led to Sparnon being sent back by Cooke. With a turning circle akin to the QE2, Sparnon was left high and dry as a rapier throw from Jack Upton ripped leg stump clean out of the ground. George Speller strode purposefully to the wicket buoyed by a high scoring innings vs Remnants in midweek. Cooke continued to score with nonchalant ease whilst Speller ably supported and Coton passed 50 runs after 11 overs.

Cottenham realised they needed a bowling change and Nick Davies certainly delivered. Spinning it both ways and generating more bounce than either opening bowler, Davies proved too much for Speller catching him LBW on the front foot. Cooke found himself a more than capable partner in Dave Hale. Who despite some early scares from Davies relished the opportunity to despatch the Cottenham bowlers to all corners of the ground. Cooke reached his 50 as the sun beamed down relentlessly. Asked if he needed a cloth to wipe away the sweat, Cooke replied "I need a bucket"..........Pre-season training in the Plough didn't prepare the team for this. Flagging in the "Tenko" conditions, Cooke holed out on 69, leaving Hale to pick off the bad balls. Allison gave Davies his 2nd wicket and when Hale was bowled by Richards on 40 runs, the Coton innings began to stutter. Kaye fell cheaply whilst Messrs Norton and Bradbury dug in as run scoring proved difficult. East steadied the lower order as Paul Bradbury hit his first four in 3 seasons. Alas the glory was short-lived as he holed out soon afterwards. Dave Scotcher and Ed Darling didn't trouble the scorers. Coton all out for 171 in 40 overs.

Following some good banter at Tea and Rad's Razzle audition (see picture), Coton set about bowling Cottenham out. If ever there was a game of 2 innings this was it. Maybe it was overhead cloud cover or the good length being served up to the Cottenham openers Brett and Griffiths, but neither of them lasted long. Speller swung the ball like a yo-yo and took the first 2 wickets, whilst Cooke exacted significant bounce. When Cundell was Feng Shui'd by Cooke, Cottenham were in disarray. It was left to Davies, surely Cottenham's best player, to try and put a semblance of a Cottenham innings together. When Coton Skipper Richard Allison decided to give the opening bowlers a well earned rest, Cottenham were 20-4. It did not get any easier for Cottenham as Neil Sparnon "bent his back" and had Shadrack hopping at the crease. After alot of "chuntering" from Shadrack and a Pontingesque outburst, directed at A East, the Cottenham bat was in the hutch when he popped up a "dolly" to East. Justice served.

With Sparnon relishing the extra bounce in the pitch, apart from a pee roller that dismissed Davies, it was left to Coton's new master of spin, Dave Scotcher aka the Care Bear, to clean up the tail. With 4 wickets for 12 runs, it was certainly Care Bear's best figures. Cottenham all out for 66 runs. Coton victory by 105 runs.

Highs:

• Chris Cooke's majestic 69 runs
• Dave Scotcher's career best figures of 4 -12
• 10 Coton players and our 12th man (well done Mitchell) in the Cottenham pub afterwards
• 2 "close in" catches from A East
• Swingin' all the way home
  

Lows:

• The lower middle order and tail scored only 20 runs between 7 players - NETS PRACTISE THIS WEEK GUYS...........PLEASE. :)))
• 6 dropped catches - mmmmm need I say anymore?
• A Crazy, Drunken Woman in the Plough afterwards.....we could not shake her......
  

Remnants v Coton, 7 May 2008

On a beautiful early summer evening Coton racked up their first win against Remnants for many a year. Inserted on the usual Fitzwilliam belter, new boy Ross Chandler was flummoxed for an early season egg, but the ship was quickly righted as Senthil and George got the measure of some very friendly bowling.

There was a scary moment when George (picture - pre hideous disfigurement - right) top edged a full toss straight onto his forehead. Despite lots of blood, it was not so serious as to impair his rugged good looks and he was able to keep wicket later. Clearly shaken and in charitable mood, skipper Chris promptly chipped a dolly to Coton legend Jim Schwabe before Neil joined Senthil at the wicket. Several overs of block/bash/suicide singles ensued and with the odd interval for a run out (Mitchell), slogging (Norts) and self immolation (Pete), Coton reached the giddy heights of 147 for 9 off 15, (8 ball) overs.

Chris was soon tearing in and quickly removed the two openers. With Billy and Ed keeping it steady from the other end and wickets for Senthil, Mitchell and new boy Ross, Remnants never really threatened.

An excellent win and a perfect evening culminating in a swift half as the sun set. The summer starts here.

Coton v Over II, 3 May 2008

Despite a warm sunny day, and a warm glow in the aftermath of a junior coaching session attended by no less than 28 children, the Coton pitch defeated Dave's efforts to prepare something that wouldn't be a mud heap after 4 overs. Chris, Neil, Mike and Paul still managed to see it through till closing time though. It's good to start the season in traditional style eh?