A blistering day had chose to come on Sunday with temperatures soaring at 26+, the heat however never got to the heads of our Development team as they secured a rather comfortable win against Ampthill Town.
Having won the toss, Elstow decided to have a bat with Dan and Ajay opening. Unfortunately, the pair failed to lay a foundation for the team as Dan got out on a duck and Ajay out for seven. Daniel.T came out at number three and looked promising as he got bat on ball, which included a sweet square cut for four, but he then he was run out for seven. Next on the crease was the duo of Cain and Guraj, a tag-team that looked solid from beginning; with both batsmen playing sensible shots and using their time wisely. The sensible playing from both batsmen contributed to a remarkable partnership of 40+ runs (cannot remember the actual runs), but Guraj was soon bowled out on 22 runs. In came the skipper Charlie, but he got out on a duck, which then put some pressure on the team. Manz stepped up to the crease to provide Cain, who was in his 40s, some valuable support. Having whipped an effortless six over deep square leg, Cain reached his well-deserved half century, hats off to him! The brief but strong partnership between Manz and Cain helped Elstow to reach a defendable score of 146.
Defending 146, Elstow’s opening bowling attack obtained an early breakthrough with Ajay bowling out Michael.W and Cain catching out Jason.H courtesy of Guraj. Next to the crease were James.F and Max.F who were giving Elstow a hard time, this was until Daniel.T bowled out James with his effective leg spin. Dan.C made up for his duck by bowling 5 maidens and picking up 3 wickets near the end, talk about a comeback! Ajay then secured victory by bowling out Gary.T for a duck.
Overall, a par batting performance by Elstow, but not for Cain and Guraj, well done lads. Bowling on the other hand was much better with almost all bowlers picking up wickets, unlucky Mahi! In addition, well done to Cain and Luke for their catches in the field.
Man of the Match: Definitely has to go to Cain aka C.H.B. for providing a much-needed score of 54 to elevate Elstow’s chances of winning.
Anil Paul
