So our much anticipated first league game got underway at a sunny, but deceptively chilly Nomansland yesterday evening. But after last year’s constant monsoons it was lovely to get back into the swing of things with the sweet sound of leather and willow, complimented for some of us with a sneaky pint and a fine burger.
Welwyn batted first against our legendary pace attack of Matthew and Callum. Bowling was tight with excellent line and length keeping runs to a premium. Callum was rewarded for his persistence with a sharp catch from Arthur behind the stumps as excellent fielding kept the run rate down. Max was rewarded with two wickets with a smart catch from Callum and a magnificent take deep in the covers by Tom – moment of the match for me. Well done Tom! James M then opened his account for the season with a great yorker first ball wicket as Welwyn finished on 52 for 5 from their 20 overs.
James and Harry M opened in reply against an impressive opening pairing from Welwyn who duly struck early in the second over bringing Max to the crease. James looked comfortable knocking some lovely little singles down to third man. However, he was undone by a smart caught and bowled bringing Arthur to the crease and sparking the first hint of nerves amongst the WCC faithful with the score showing 13 for 2 off 5 overs. However, our anxiety was misplaced as Arthur and Max steadily worked their way out of trouble and towards an admirable victory. In the end the win was secured in the 12th over after a magnificent partnership of 39 between Max and Arthur.
So, a fine opening win in our first ever competitive 20/20 match, leaving Eamonn and myself sporting Nigel Faragesque cheesy grins for the rest of the evening (and this morning if truth be told). What really stood out for me was the fantastic fielding performance from everyone that restricted the target to just 53. The basics were all there, coupled with a great determination, team spirit, and a demonstration that there is no greater truth than “catches win matches”! Well done to everyone.
Key statistics as follows
Max: 3 overs, 2 wickets for 3
Callum: 3 overs 1 for 7
Harry S: 2 overs 1 for 2
James M: 2 overs 1 for 7
Catches – Arthur, Callum, Tom, James M
Arthur 13 not out
Max 10 not out
Thanks to Andy Mason for impeccable scoring, to Adam for manning up the bar, and to Mitch for a master BBQ.