Wheathampstead Cricket Club

It was hard to believe that just 3 weeks ago snow was falling on Nomansland but on the opening Saturday of the season, it was sun and soaring temperatures that hit Hertfordshire. Hoping to continue from last season, the 1st and 2nd XI faced Old Albanians in two competitive friendlies.

In a 100 over game split 47/43, the 1st XI won the toss and chose to bat at Nomansland, posting 224 of 46.5 overs. Nick Martin (pictured) scored a superb 72 and along with Mark Winchester (50) shared a 85 run opening partnership. Runs for Adam Robbins (24) and Pete Griffiths (15) saw Wheato post an above average score and set OA's 225 to win off 43. A brilliant opening spell from overseas Mitchell Futcher and Chris Strivens (2 for 19) took out the top order and the spin of Adam Winchester (3 for 30) and Dave Dabare (1 for 22) took the game away from OA's. Adam Robbins(2 for 5) and MOTM Nick Martin (2 for 16) picked up the rest as Wheato ran home winners by 67 runs.

The 2nd XI travelled to OA's and 52 from Sam Ledger and 36 from Ian Porter helped to post a competitive 197 for 7 off their 45 overs. Fantasy league winner Rich Evans took 3 for 8 and Steve Smith 2 for 19 as Wheato worked hard to pick up OA's wickets who fell short, finally being bowled out for 121 off 41.5 overs. MOTM Sam Ledger picked up an injury that could see him miss the start of the season by captain Jimmy McEwen was extremely pleased with his teams start to the season, which ended as a 76 run victory.