Chalke Valley 13/08/17

The hosts elected to bat on a good looking wicket at Bowerchalke.  Will and Mark opened the attack well and generated some pressure which brought about several chances to catch the free-scoring opening batsman.  It was Mark who managed the breakthrough, getting one to cut back having bowled full away swingers.  A double change brought David (1-49) and Tommy (1-43) on to change the pace of the attack.  Both were unable to maintain any pressure with occasional short deliveries providing boundary opportunities.  It was Will who took the spectacular catch out in the deep to eventually get rid of the opener off Tommy.  Luke was unable to reproduce the accuracy of the previous week but Tom W found a great line and length with some turn and bounce and was by far the pick of the bowlers.  With each delivery the ever growing slip ring was waiting with anticipation and 3-21 on a free scoring pitch was very creditable.  Pete came on and took a wicket with his first ball to bring in a class bat at 10 who hit Pete for 4 and 6 before relinquishing the strike!  Both Will (1-30) and Mark (1-17) came back for spells to try to bowl out the hosts but they managed the full 35 overs scoring 195-9.

Mike M (17) and Tommy set the innings off well with a 35 run stand in the opening 7 overs.  Mike was C&B bringing Simon to the crease.  Some intense running between the batsmen including a 4 ensured runs were flowing until Simon (11) edged an away swinger to a sharp catch behind.  Tom was looking comfortable until he was in 2 or 3 minds to a loopy spinner – eventually playing on for 8.  With Will keeping Tommy company there was always a chance – especially as the running between the wickets was crucial with such a long boundary and lush grass.  The partnership was worth 41 when Will (12) was caught.  Luke fell LBW for no score which mean’t the pressure of keeping Tommy company fell to Mark.  The run rate was not a problem but Tommy top edged a hook which the keeper took at full length.  His 80 was the stand-out performance of the day and kept the innings interesting.  Mark (11) was bowled by the quicky and Bob walked when he edged to the keeper.  Mike H (9) and David (14) provided some lusty hits in the final overs and even managed a sight screen alteration on the 34th over!  A valiant effort but 179-8 was not as close as it seems.

MOM: Tommy

Catch of the day: Will