Charlton Down 03/08/25

On another hot August Sunday, Dorset Wanderers travelled to Charlton Down. Charlton put out an eclectic team, including league players, father and son pairs and, much to Brett’s delight, two female players!

Tommy, leading in Skipper’s absence, won the toss and Dorset Wanderers went into bat. David fired a cover drive for four in the first over but then chopped on to the much slower opening bowler from the other end. Will, (18) on his return after five seasons, and Garry (21) posted a stand , but by the time Brett and Jono had fallen in the 18th over Wanderers were 78 for six and looking down the barrel of a subpar score. We were saved by debutante Matt Tyler (48) and Ben Rayner (31) who together put on a stand of 70 for the seventh wicket and ensured a respectable total.

Wanderers finished 169 for nine after their 35 overs.

After a picnic tea provided by Tommy Weld, Charlton Down took the field to try and chase Wanderers total. They made a good start and after 22 overs were 136 for five and looked to have the match in the bag. David and Benjie Rayner then came together to bowl a niggardly spell (11.1 overs, 3 maidens, 4 for 27 combined).

After a wicket maiden from David in the 34th over, Ben was left with four runs to defend, the final pair at the crease and three results possible. From the first ball of that over one of the lady batters hit him for four to win the game with five balls to spare! A tight game played in excellent spirit.

Man of the match: Ben Rayner, vital runs and an excellent spell of bowling.

Result: Charlton Down win by one wicket