Shingler XI v. Leach XI
After an enforced delay to the start of the Season due to the current Covid Health crisis and lockdown, the season finally commenced on Saturday 11th. July.
It had been decided to hold a 40 overs a side inter-Club match, so that 22 Club players had the opportunity to don their whites and play a competitive match, with a neutral umpire.
The match was between the Shingler XI and Leach XI, both Captains of the 1st. XI and 2nd. XI sides this season with the sides mixed equally.
Prior to the start of the game, all players lined up either side of the wicket and held a Minute’s Silence for those that had died during the ongoing health crisis as a mark of Respect to them.
The Leach XI batted first and made 148-7 in their 40 overs. Adie Sellar hit 32 before he fell but had the honour of hitting the first 6 of the season at the Ground (and into the Housing Development!), whilst Matt Casey made 18. However, the side’s top scorer was Adam Huxford who made an unbeaten 36 when the innings closed. He hit only one boundary, running all the others. Jono Sparks took 2-18 and Tom Skinner 2-23 whilst there was a wicket a piece for Connor Shingler, Matt Dadswell and Danny Boneham.
Chasing, the Shingler XI started at a fair pace as Player of the Day, Chris Prophet, found early season form and made the first half century at the Club of the season before he retired on 66 after hitting 8 boundaries. Newbie, Stuart Cope, made 23 before Jono Sparks took the side over the winning line with some 6 overs to spare as he made 29 not out (4 x 4, 1 x 6) as the side reached 152-3, hitting the winning runs. The wickets were shared between Steve Rhodes, Joe Atkinson and Dan Barrie – each picking up one a piece.
A Minute’s Round of Applause took place mid way through the game, when the match stopped and all – players and spectators – joined in it in memory of Don Hitchcock, Dennis Slater and Life Member, Peter Plummer, who had all sadly passed away this year and who had devoted so much of their time and commitment to the Club over many decades.
It was a most enjoyable day for all involved with many spectators attending – probably the highest number watching and socializing, since the Clubhouse re-opening 14 years ago after the fire, getting use to the new Regulations, one way system for the bar and Clubhouse but while maintaining social distancing. A very good day was had. WELL DONE all – those that organized the day, those took part in the match (players and officials) and to those who came down and showed your support. THANK YOU.
