...quite badly, as it happens. On a hot afternoon in Stow-cum-Quy we took on Cherry Hinton II. Earlier in the season we had beaten them by 10 wickets at The Rec: could we repeat the feat? Cherry Hinton were confident before the match, cheerfully telling us about all their recent big scores so obviously they didn't think so. The wicket was set at the extreme edge of the square meaning that the boundary at one side was about 200 yards away while at the other the umpire had to peer around the trees at square leg to see the crease. There was a mad scramble by the bowlers to bowl at the end where the leg side boundary was the longest: George won.
The pace twins of Neil Sparnon and George Speller opened the bowling. So alike in looks and action the scorers didn't notice that George had changed ends after each of them had bowled three overs. The result was that Neil ended up bowling 8 overs and George 12 although both were credited with 10 in the book. Neil was slightly miffed by being short changed on the actual bowling and the fact George conceded around 30 runs on the two overs that ended up on Neil's analysis. George was less worried but somewhat more knackered.
Neil made the initial break through with a bouncer that was edged behind and Paul "tell Alastair we have a keeper" Bradbury dived forward to take a smart chance. That was the only breakthrough for a long while and the short boundary came into play. We spent several hour trampling the turnips searching for balls. Players returned to the field inches taller after the seaches due to the mud on their boots. It must cost Cherry Hinton a fortune in lost balls.
Dave Scotcher was most put out when standing at slip. The batsman turned to him and asked whether there was anyone standing behind him: definitely a sizest comment.
Rob Kaye replaced George who replaced Neil and then was himself replaced by Dave Scotcher. Dave was confused by the changes and tried to bowl when it was George who was being brought in: if we couldn't figure out who was who what chance did the scorers have? Cherry Hinton were moving along at 7 runs per over until their serene progress was interrupted by the combination of Rob and Andy East. The remaining opener prodded forward and after a brief search in Andy's midriff the ball was recovered and the catch given. I know: pot, kettle, black. A couple of overs later Rob struck again and at the stage the game was quite finely balanced.
It was then that Mr Ankur took over. By the time we got rid of him about 16 overs later he had hit 120 causing several more long searches and some fine steeplechasing by Neil. Eyes firmly fixed on a him straight shot he went back towards the hedge only noticing it presence as the ball disappeared for another 6. Into and over the hedge he went in slow motion. If anyone had had the foresight to bring a video camera we would have been quids in for "You've Been Framed".
Neil has since entered for the Cheltenham Gold Cup where he will be ridden by Gemelle Gracey-Davison (ooo err).
George changed ends again and amidst the carnage picked up two wickets. The first of these was a spectacular caught and bowled: the second time he has performed that particular feat this season. By this time the ball was flying everywhere. Billy Haynes had a brief spell and perfectly good balls dissapeared for 4 and 6. Captain Allison was watching the bowling in disbelief and decided to show us how it was done. His two overs went for 30. Rob came back for a 2nd try and took two wickets in two balls both caught at cover by Dave Hale who has stopped chuntering about the quality of the bowling long enough to pouch the catches.
But the last word went to Paul Norton. In his last game before heading back to New Zealand he was tossed the ball to end the innings. In his second over the Cherries skipper played all around a straight one and much to everyone's joy Paul got an LBW verdict. A wicket on his farewell performance. Another memory to take back to the Southern Hemisphere.
Cherry Hinton had amassed 321-8 in their 40 overs. Rob had 4 expensive wickets, George 2, Paul and Neil 1 apiece. Did I mention the whistling after every 4 or 6? No? Bloody annoying it was.
After tea, featuring cheese sandwiches with spicy potato, we started the reply in a very positive fashion. George and Dave rattled up 70 runs at about 9 an over. George in particular was sending the ball to all corners. We tried whistling but failed to make an impression so we resorted to animal noises much to the confusion of the Cherry Hinton team. At first it was coyotes but then a succession of barnyard animals came into play: boundaries were greated with sheep baa'ing, horses neighing and ducks quacking.
It all came to an end with the bowling changes. George was dismissed for a rapid - and elegant - 43 and out strode Mr Norton for his final bat.
Earlier on, with the Cherries one player short we had agreed to loan them our 12th man, Pete Brooks. Earlier on he had done a fine job in the turnip field he has done a fine job spotting balls flying and whilst at the same time scaring the crows. It was now that he had the presence of mid to not catch Norts before he had scored. They scampered a single and Paul now scored a run in his final game. In the next over he was unlucky to pick out a fielder on the short side for a catch: a yard either side would have been four.
The Cherries change bowlers worked through the batting and from 70-0 wicket we subsided to 111 all out. The farmyard chorus was silenced. Dave edged one behind and Neil dragged a wide onto his stumps (he did well to reach it). Richard launched one six across the Newmarket road before departing. Bradders hung around 14 overs for 2 runs (he did get the ball of the square once which brought a loud cheer from the square leg umpire).
Ankur, not content with his 120, then took a hat-trick. Gabriel Fox was first, LBW ("can you cheat next time and not give me out") then Andy East was Feng Shui'ed first ball. That was the end of the over but on the first ball of his next over Dave chased a wide ball and provided another catch behind. Billy avoided the 4 in 4 and batted calmly until the end of the innings. Paul was eventually removed and Rob had a quick swing to end the match before being bowled of his pads from one going well down leg side.
So that was that: well and truly beaten by 210 runs. But still, itwas a nice day, friendly opposition and we had some good laughs. In other results Fen Ditton beat March and Granta beat Waterbeach leaving us 6th. Next week it's March at home. A must win game? Maybe not but certainly a winnable one.
And finally, goodbye, Mr Norton, it's been a pleasure playing with you. Your contributions on and off the field will be missed. I hope you have some good memories of Coton to take back to New Zealand.
Coton vs NCI IVs - 18/07/2009
Well, what can you say about that? I missed the first game against NCI: I was told that it was the nadir of the season. I think we managed to get worse the 2nd time around though.
Richard won the toss and put NCI in. That may have been the highlight of the match for us. NCI started slowly against some typical parsimonious opening spell from Chris Cooke. Billy Haynes continued his recent form from the other end and runs wer far and few between. The first breakthrough looked to have come when Billy rapped the NCI opener on the pads and Adam Wright raised the finger of death only to reconsider and give the right - not out - decision. Billy removed the batsman a few balls later with a deserved LBW.
Things started to happen after the change bowlers came on. Dave Scotcher soon broke through courtesy of a smart catch behind by Alastair. That was the first of three victims behind the stumps, three that should have been four when the most obvious catch was turned down because the umpire "wasn't sure". I have been told that drivers on the M11 heard the snick. I certainly did at long off.
The score meandered along and Rob Kaye removed two NCIers in the space of three balls. The first was plumb LBW (even though I say so myself). This lead to the NCI batsmen asking to replace Adam as umpire. Adam: thanks for coming along when not in the team, and thanks for standing as umpire and putting up with the complaints. You rescinded the bad decision and got the others right (which is more than can be said for their umpires and - possibly - me).
Anyway, the other NCI bat was still fuming when he got to the other end, took a wild swing and was bowled.
In the meantime, Chris's sore back had forced him off the field and Adam stepped back on as a fielding substitute. I am surprised that NCI didn't complain. The game now meandered a little and so did some of the fielders. A couple of chances went down, several more went in the air and without ever looking like they were scoring too many runs they made it to 142-8 in the 40 overs. This included 2 run outs in the last over, a stumping off Scotcher and a wicket to Richard Allison courtesy of another Breward catch. The NCI score included a fine knock by one of the three femaile members of the team, this one a 14 year old. Billy managed to bowl 4 wides in the space of an over to her: I'm not sure if this was a case of misguided chivalry. She certainly didn't need it.
We weren't helped by Chris being unable to bowl a second spell.
After a fine tea (by the Bradburies) we took the field.
First up were last week's unbeaten batsmen Dave Hale and Dave Simmons. The latter took first ball ... on the full, on the pads and in front of the stumps. A horrible ball first up and a definite LBW. Alastair was looking confident and stroked his first ball for 4. A couple of overs later he was hit amidships going back and much to his amazement, given out.
[I'm not going to comment on whether it was right or wrong, just to say that whoever thought it was a delibarate ploy on my part to never have to umpire again is just being cynical. Although it is a good idea in hindsight.]
Richard was next to go, edging to keeper and sportingly walking before the finger was raised to remove the onus of another tricky decision. Neither Bradders or Billy lasted long and less than 10 overs in we were 19-5. Dave Hale had watched carnage in stunned disbelief from the non striker's end. He then decided it wasn't worth hanging around and launched himself into a shot, which, ten minutes later dropped into the hands of mid-off. Chris now joined Rob at the wicket and we made a partial recovery until he chipped one back to the bowler. Andy East soon departed, and Rob (who had now batted about 10 overs longer than he normally manages, i.e., about 10 overs) top edged one to a fine leg. Paul Norton (for whom kudos must go for (a) the fine pitch prep and (b) not getting out of the way of several fierce shots) departed without scoring leaving us on 58 and thus short of a bonus point. Mr Scotcher carried his bat out undefeated. I'm sure he is trying to keep its unused appearance.
So, a defeat by 84 runs. Not too many positives to take away from the game. Next week we play Granta IV who are currently top of the table with just one defeat. Still, we all remember Cambourne last year.
Rob.
p.s. And I got through the entire report without mentioning bowling maiden overs or being bowled over by maidens.
Doh!
p.p.s. The sun had set several hours before anyone managed to get a pint.
Richard won the toss and put NCI in. That may have been the highlight of the match for us. NCI started slowly against some typical parsimonious opening spell from Chris Cooke. Billy Haynes continued his recent form from the other end and runs wer far and few between. The first breakthrough looked to have come when Billy rapped the NCI opener on the pads and Adam Wright raised the finger of death only to reconsider and give the right - not out - decision. Billy removed the batsman a few balls later with a deserved LBW.
Things started to happen after the change bowlers came on. Dave Scotcher soon broke through courtesy of a smart catch behind by Alastair. That was the first of three victims behind the stumps, three that should have been four when the most obvious catch was turned down because the umpire "wasn't sure". I have been told that drivers on the M11 heard the snick. I certainly did at long off.
The score meandered along and Rob Kaye removed two NCIers in the space of three balls. The first was plumb LBW (even though I say so myself). This lead to the NCI batsmen asking to replace Adam as umpire. Adam: thanks for coming along when not in the team, and thanks for standing as umpire and putting up with the complaints. You rescinded the bad decision and got the others right (which is more than can be said for their umpires and - possibly - me).
Anyway, the other NCI bat was still fuming when he got to the other end, took a wild swing and was bowled.
In the meantime, Chris's sore back had forced him off the field and Adam stepped back on as a fielding substitute. I am surprised that NCI didn't complain. The game now meandered a little and so did some of the fielders. A couple of chances went down, several more went in the air and without ever looking like they were scoring too many runs they made it to 142-8 in the 40 overs. This included 2 run outs in the last over, a stumping off Scotcher and a wicket to Richard Allison courtesy of another Breward catch. The NCI score included a fine knock by one of the three femaile members of the team, this one a 14 year old. Billy managed to bowl 4 wides in the space of an over to her: I'm not sure if this was a case of misguided chivalry. She certainly didn't need it.
We weren't helped by Chris being unable to bowl a second spell.
After a fine tea (by the Bradburies) we took the field.
First up were last week's unbeaten batsmen Dave Hale and Dave Simmons. The latter took first ball ... on the full, on the pads and in front of the stumps. A horrible ball first up and a definite LBW. Alastair was looking confident and stroked his first ball for 4. A couple of overs later he was hit amidships going back and much to his amazement, given out.
[I'm not going to comment on whether it was right or wrong, just to say that whoever thought it was a delibarate ploy on my part to never have to umpire again is just being cynical. Although it is a good idea in hindsight.]
Richard was next to go, edging to keeper and sportingly walking before the finger was raised to remove the onus of another tricky decision. Neither Bradders or Billy lasted long and less than 10 overs in we were 19-5. Dave Hale had watched carnage in stunned disbelief from the non striker's end. He then decided it wasn't worth hanging around and launched himself into a shot, which, ten minutes later dropped into the hands of mid-off. Chris now joined Rob at the wicket and we made a partial recovery until he chipped one back to the bowler. Andy East soon departed, and Rob (who had now batted about 10 overs longer than he normally manages, i.e., about 10 overs) top edged one to a fine leg. Paul Norton (for whom kudos must go for (a) the fine pitch prep and (b) not getting out of the way of several fierce shots) departed without scoring leaving us on 58 and thus short of a bonus point. Mr Scotcher carried his bat out undefeated. I'm sure he is trying to keep its unused appearance.
So, a defeat by 84 runs. Not too many positives to take away from the game. Next week we play Granta IV who are currently top of the table with just one defeat. Still, we all remember Cambourne last year.
Rob.
p.s. And I got through the entire report without mentioning bowling maiden overs or being bowled over by maidens.
Doh!
p.p.s. The sun had set several hours before anyone managed to get a pint.
Ball tampering incident overshadows comprehensive win
OK. You've made me feel guilty about the lack of match reports, so here goes...
July 11th, Coton Rec. The return fixture against a Girton II side that had been swept away by 10 wickets earlier in the season. With several team members missing (presumed on vacation) the return of Dave Hale to the ranks was very timely.
A short sharp shower just after 1pm blew over and we were able to start on time. I lost the toss, again, and was pleasently surprised when Girton elected to bat as we would have put them in anyway.
Dave Scotcher attempted to fill in for the missing Rads by arriving late but failed and we took to the field with a full compliment of players.
We opened up with Chris Cooke and Billy Haynes. Both would need to be removed from the attack after short spells: Billy because of the league rules to protect junior players, Chris because he had a sick note. It didn't look too promising when Chris's 2nd ball was dispatched straight for 4 but we soon struck back. Chris lead the way striking timber twice during a two wicket maiden. Billy was soon into the action as well. He completely flumoxed their opening bat by getting the ball to bounce twice before reaching the bat. Just before it bounced a third time (and thus becoming a no ball) the batsman obiligingly slapped it back to Billy who took a good return catch. Chris hit timber again so by the time the enforced bowling changes came they were 4 down for not very many.
It was at this point that Mr Scotcher retired to the trees at the Footpath End announcing that he hadn't had time to go before the match. It was from this incident that the allegations of ball tampering emerged, not to mention the use of dubious substances on the ball.
Whatever, shortly thereafter the heavens opened and we had to retire for a short break. There was some conjecture about the shower and whether it was a case of "anything you can do, I can do better" following Dave's off pitch activities.
Dave and Rob then took on the bowling duties and worked through the middle order and tail. The ball was swinging prodigously after the shower and Rob's spell consisted of either play-and-miss or swishes for 4. Dave was the first to strike and then Rob took wickets in three successive overs, two with aid of catches by Paul Norton at mid-off the third an LBW. Dave took a second wicket, spearing the ball in on leg stump having been hit for 4 and 6 on the two proceeding balls.
Billy returned to the attack to replace Rob and soon removed the final wicket with a fine ball that again rattled the timbers. [Note: removing myself from the attack with at this point does NOT constitute jug avoidance as there was only one wicket left.] So 3 wickets for Chris and Rob, 2 apiece for Dave and Billy and Girton were gone for 66 in just over 25 overs. It was a good all round performance from the bowlers and the fielders with good ground fielding and Paul's safe hands.
After a fine tea, courtesy of Billy's Mum (thank you!) we took the field. Could lightning strike twice? Surely we could chase down 66. With this in mind I tried to arrange the order to bring the guys who didn't get a bowl into the game. So, we didn't have the familiar sight of Chris taking strike to the first ball. The two Daves (Simmons and Hale) headed the order and the rest became something of a moot point.
There were some early scares, including two chances going down in the slips. But Dave H was soon into his stride, smiting the ball to all points of the field. He was putting the ball where the fielders weren't and boundaries came square of the wicket on both sides as well as straight. Dave S picked off some singles and the target was reached in the 14th over with no wickets down.
Another 10 wicket win: our 3rd this season, and our 2nd against Girton who haven't managed to take a wicket against us this year. It broke a streak of 4 league losses and moved us into mid-table ahead of next week's opposition (NCI).
We were in the Plough nice and early and treated to some fine jugs (of beer) by Mr Hale who had passed 50 in the run chase. He finished 52 not out with Dave Simmons on 8 not out.
Some jug avoidance did take place at this point as the tables were cleared of glasses.
Cheers,
Rob.
July 11th, Coton Rec. The return fixture against a Girton II side that had been swept away by 10 wickets earlier in the season. With several team members missing (presumed on vacation) the return of Dave Hale to the ranks was very timely.
A short sharp shower just after 1pm blew over and we were able to start on time. I lost the toss, again, and was pleasently surprised when Girton elected to bat as we would have put them in anyway.
Dave Scotcher attempted to fill in for the missing Rads by arriving late but failed and we took to the field with a full compliment of players.
We opened up with Chris Cooke and Billy Haynes. Both would need to be removed from the attack after short spells: Billy because of the league rules to protect junior players, Chris because he had a sick note. It didn't look too promising when Chris's 2nd ball was dispatched straight for 4 but we soon struck back. Chris lead the way striking timber twice during a two wicket maiden. Billy was soon into the action as well. He completely flumoxed their opening bat by getting the ball to bounce twice before reaching the bat. Just before it bounced a third time (and thus becoming a no ball) the batsman obiligingly slapped it back to Billy who took a good return catch. Chris hit timber again so by the time the enforced bowling changes came they were 4 down for not very many.
It was at this point that Mr Scotcher retired to the trees at the Footpath End announcing that he hadn't had time to go before the match. It was from this incident that the allegations of ball tampering emerged, not to mention the use of dubious substances on the ball.
Whatever, shortly thereafter the heavens opened and we had to retire for a short break. There was some conjecture about the shower and whether it was a case of "anything you can do, I can do better" following Dave's off pitch activities.
Dave and Rob then took on the bowling duties and worked through the middle order and tail. The ball was swinging prodigously after the shower and Rob's spell consisted of either play-and-miss or swishes for 4. Dave was the first to strike and then Rob took wickets in three successive overs, two with aid of catches by Paul Norton at mid-off the third an LBW. Dave took a second wicket, spearing the ball in on leg stump having been hit for 4 and 6 on the two proceeding balls.
Billy returned to the attack to replace Rob and soon removed the final wicket with a fine ball that again rattled the timbers. [Note: removing myself from the attack with at this point does NOT constitute jug avoidance as there was only one wicket left.] So 3 wickets for Chris and Rob, 2 apiece for Dave and Billy and Girton were gone for 66 in just over 25 overs. It was a good all round performance from the bowlers and the fielders with good ground fielding and Paul's safe hands.
After a fine tea, courtesy of Billy's Mum (thank you!) we took the field. Could lightning strike twice? Surely we could chase down 66. With this in mind I tried to arrange the order to bring the guys who didn't get a bowl into the game. So, we didn't have the familiar sight of Chris taking strike to the first ball. The two Daves (Simmons and Hale) headed the order and the rest became something of a moot point.
There were some early scares, including two chances going down in the slips. But Dave H was soon into his stride, smiting the ball to all points of the field. He was putting the ball where the fielders weren't and boundaries came square of the wicket on both sides as well as straight. Dave S picked off some singles and the target was reached in the 14th over with no wickets down.
Another 10 wicket win: our 3rd this season, and our 2nd against Girton who haven't managed to take a wicket against us this year. It broke a streak of 4 league losses and moved us into mid-table ahead of next week's opposition (NCI).
We were in the Plough nice and early and treated to some fine jugs (of beer) by Mr Hale who had passed 50 in the run chase. He finished 52 not out with Dave Simmons on 8 not out.
Some jug avoidance did take place at this point as the tables were cleared of glasses.
Cheers,
Rob.
Coton V Cherry Hinton II - Coton win inaugural game in IPL!
Well it certainly seemed that way when Cherry Hinton 2nds came to The Rec last weekend. Replete with a WAG entourage we saw what was possibly the biggest crowd for a Coton game (easily in double figures). We then proceeded to win a game that lasted about as long as a 20/20. Combined with the new early start time of 1:30 this meant that we hit The Plough before the final whistle went in the day’s Premiership games. (Dave H, nice try on telling me that Hull were losing. It was a safe bet but 48 hours too soon).
This is my 3rd season with Coton and each of these has seen us set off the campaign with a thumping win. This year it was by 10 wickets having bowled out the 10 men of Cherry Hinton for 56.
On a warm, dry, spring day Chris Cooke took the new ball and delivered an accurate opening spell. It wasn’t until his fourth over that he conceded a run whilst removing one of the Cherry Hinton openers. It soon became apparent that the heavy roller that had been hired during the close season had yielded benefits. The pitch – while still low – was very consistent and the ball looked to be coming through faster then previous seasons. George opened from The Footpath End and took 3 wickets in a fine opening spell. He was only denied the need to buy a jug through good spells from each of the three change bowlers employed(*).
During the morning during the kids coaching session George and Chris had been building up their excuses of bad backs in readiness for what might happen in the afternoon. I was surprised when they didn’t turn up with notes excusing them from hard exercise in the afternoon. To his credit, both remembered to limp and run stiffly when the other fielders were watching. Alistair also spent some time cultivating an excuse connected to the new keeping gloves. In the end, he didn’t need to use his either.
Debutant Dave Simmons took a wicket in a short spell courtesy of a fine catch by Richard at mid-wicket. That Richard then managed to stay upright – much to the disappointment of his team mates – highlighted the elegance he brings to each facet of his game. “Other” Dave was soon back on track with two wickets and is well on the way to hearing the sound of a razor being sharpened. Ross twirled away through his spell beating the bat on countless times (even though on occasion he had to resort to bowling wides to do so) and was also rewarded with two wickets. Ed pulled one of these out of the air at mid-on from a well hit drive.
They were one man short, and so with nine wickets down and in under 30 overs Cherry Hinton had come and gone for 56. None of the batsmen looked like staying long and the bowlers had done their job. All the catches that went to hand stuck and there was some steady ground fielding. We retired for an excellent tea courtesy of Mr Breward.
After tea Ross and Chris opened up and knocked off the runs without too much trouble. The bowling was steady but apart from a sharp chance in the 1st over neither batsman looked like getting out. As a last desperate measure we sent a very reluctant Dave Scotcher out to umpire but he didn’t get to make any decisions in the one over that he stood. Both batsman played some good looking shots and a comfortable victory was achieved in around 15 overs.
So, on the plus side:
This is my 3rd season with Coton and each of these has seen us set off the campaign with a thumping win. This year it was by 10 wickets having bowled out the 10 men of Cherry Hinton for 56.
On a warm, dry, spring day Chris Cooke took the new ball and delivered an accurate opening spell. It wasn’t until his fourth over that he conceded a run whilst removing one of the Cherry Hinton openers. It soon became apparent that the heavy roller that had been hired during the close season had yielded benefits. The pitch – while still low – was very consistent and the ball looked to be coming through faster then previous seasons. George opened from The Footpath End and took 3 wickets in a fine opening spell. He was only denied the need to buy a jug through good spells from each of the three change bowlers employed(*).
During the morning during the kids coaching session George and Chris had been building up their excuses of bad backs in readiness for what might happen in the afternoon. I was surprised when they didn’t turn up with notes excusing them from hard exercise in the afternoon. To his credit, both remembered to limp and run stiffly when the other fielders were watching. Alistair also spent some time cultivating an excuse connected to the new keeping gloves. In the end, he didn’t need to use his either.
Debutant Dave Simmons took a wicket in a short spell courtesy of a fine catch by Richard at mid-wicket. That Richard then managed to stay upright – much to the disappointment of his team mates – highlighted the elegance he brings to each facet of his game. “Other” Dave was soon back on track with two wickets and is well on the way to hearing the sound of a razor being sharpened. Ross twirled away through his spell beating the bat on countless times (even though on occasion he had to resort to bowling wides to do so) and was also rewarded with two wickets. Ed pulled one of these out of the air at mid-on from a well hit drive.
They were one man short, and so with nine wickets down and in under 30 overs Cherry Hinton had come and gone for 56. None of the batsmen looked like staying long and the bowlers had done their job. All the catches that went to hand stuck and there was some steady ground fielding. We retired for an excellent tea courtesy of Mr Breward.
After tea Ross and Chris opened up and knocked off the runs without too much trouble. The bowling was steady but apart from a sharp chance in the 1st over neither batsman looked like getting out. As a last desperate measure we sent a very reluctant Dave Scotcher out to umpire but he didn’t get to make any decisions in the one over that he stood. Both batsman played some good looking shots and a comfortable victory was achieved in around 15 overs.
So, on the plus side:
- We got to play after all last season’s frustrations.
- We won easily with a good all round performance.
- All the bowlers used had success and bowled economically.
- No dropped catches (and three smartly taken ones).
- Despite its appearance the pitch played well so thanks to everyone who put the work in during the winter (yes, I feel guilty).
- And on the downside:Most of the team will now have lost the benefit of attending the winter nets so don’t forget Wednesdays at 7pm.
This means we are joint top of the table at this early stage of the season and next week we are away at Waterbeach who also won their first game (against NCI). Waterbeach’s top scorer was “wides” with 31. So Ross should be right at home.
(*) This meant that your reporter didn’t get to turn his arm over. I am captain next week so this will be rectified, weather permitting.
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
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!
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