Hampshire League 1st XI
Captained by Alex Nippard
Managed by Keith Clarke
Parley's 1st team plays in the Hampshire County 1 League.
Upcoming Fixture: |
24 August (H) Shrewton 1.00 start All support welcome
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Every Monday from 15th April 2019 from 6pm onwards
At Parley Sports and Social Club, 275 Christchurch Road, West Parley, Ferndown BH22 8SQ. NEW PLAYERS ALWAYS WELCOME Contact KEITH CLARKE for more details (see under Committee ) |
11 May (H) Hook & Newnham II - Lost by 4 wickets
18 May (A) Burridge II - Won by 197 runs 25 May (H) Ryde - Won by 94 runs 1 June (A) Bedhampton - Lost by 3 wickets 8 June (H) Longparish - Won by 8 wickets 15 June (A) Ropley - Cancelled 22 June (A) Easton & Martyr Worthy - Won by 6 wickets 29 June (H) Gosport Borough - Won by 6 wickets 6 July (A) Old Basing - Won by 150 runs 13 July (A) Sway - Won by 116 runs 20 July (H) Hursley Park - Won by 8 wickets 27 July (A) Havant II - Cancelled 3 August (H) Andover II - Lost by 13 runs 10 August (A) Old T's & Romsey - Won by 94 runs 17 August (H) Alton II - Cancelled 
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2019 Match Reports
17 August - match cancelled due to waterlogged ground
10 August - On a very blustery and grey afternoon the visit to Old Tauntonians and Romsey II’s was a test following the disappointing performance last week. Neill and Fowler-Watt stepped up for the unavailable Collins and Ayres. Toss lost and Parley asked to bat so saving the skipper from a choice which was split between those players offering their opinions.
Each of the top five batsmen managed 25 runs or more with Luke Neill scoring an excellent 59 and Roshan Embalagama stroking 45. All came at a decent rate with 102 for 1 reached in over 19. By the 35th it was 202 for 3. The innings closed on 287 for 9.
In reply the home side lost a wicket to Ollie Green’s first ball and by over 11 were 43 for the loss of 4 wickets. A 102 run partnership followed but wickets fell steadily when that was broken. The final total was 193 all out in 43.3 overs. Bowling honours went to Alex Nippard (8-1-25-4) and credit to Green, Rowett and Fowler-Watt with two wickets each.
Back on track with a full 24 points haul and a win by 94 runs. Test passed. Team spirit high and a sense of purpose and ambition restored. Three games remaining.
3 August - Collins and Nicholls returned early from broken fingers at the expense of youngsters Neill and Pryce. Also Ayres was back for the unavailable Williams. With a warm and cloudy day and a grassy and green surface Parley won the toss and inserted visitors Andover II’s.
This decision appeared justified at 32 for 5 in over 16. Opening bowlers Ollie Green (10-5-8-3) and Jack Rowett (10-1-33-2) in tandem were unchanged and the score was 43 at the end of their combined and destructive spells. Perhaps thinking the remaining wickets would just happen the intensity dropped and with 38 extras and a decent rearguard they did not materialise. Complacency, laissez-faire and a lack of determination was all too evident. Dave Elrick picked up 3 for 38 from 7.4 overs but Andover finished on 203 all out in 48.4 overs.
In reply Parley ended on 190 all out from 45.3 overs to lose the game by 13 runs. Sam Collins top scored with 48. However from 95 for 1 the next nine wickets fell for just another 95 runs. Too many had starts but provided catching practice (there were 9) to the opposition. Even at 162 for 5 with 17 overs remaining the required 42 runs should have been achievable. A prime example of thinking others will do it if I don’t – but they didn’t. Anyone for self-examination?
With four games to go an immediate reverse of fortune is required next week. We are better than this result and need to show that is the case. That responsibility rests with both the team and the individual!
27 July - match cancelled due to rain
20 July - A head of the table clash at Parley headquarters against Hursley Park. The unavailable Ayres and Savage replaced by Williams and Hicks. Overhead conditions warm with scattered clouds.’Heads’ called and Parley win the toss and choose to head into the field. First nut from Ollie Green bounces awkwardly at pace and hits first slip Jamie Hicks squarely on the forehead to create headlines. Hicko heads off to hospital – a no brainer. What a headache. Ahead of any possible return KC heads out as 12th man.
Hursley Park head for a good score and end up on 242 for 8 wickets with head boy Nippard (10-0-40-4) using his noggin and heading the wicket takers. There were good spells from Willow and Ollie and catches for the trio of youngsters Cooke, Pryce and Neill. Jamie Hicks, plus added glue, returned to bowl four overs at the death, with everyone pleased to see the injury was not as bad as initially feared. No headstone ordered. Heal quickly Jamie.
The pursuit saw Shane Green, proud father of new baby Rory, depart with the headcount at 38. Skipper Nips joined Jack Rowett and added 112 before the partnership was broken at 150 in over 32 when JR had scored 74. With 18 overs remaining those with a head for figures could calculate 93 needed and ahead of the rate. Roshan ‘Dickwella’ Embalagama was in the mood with a win on the brow and scored 56 not out from 47 balls in an unbroken association with Nips (75 not out) to see Parley head past the winning post in 44.1 overs. A good result keeping the team at the head of the league. The crown in sight with six games to play. Possible headlines for the future. One game at a time.
Thanks to head honcho Mark Barber and DP Head Groundsman Simon Pearce for their top work in preparing the wicket and protecting the surface from the overnight weather. In celebrating the victory maybe some will not have a clear head when it hits the pillow!
13 July - Unfortunately both Sam Collins and Jack Nicholls have suffered broken fingers in the last week or so. This coupled with other availability challenges saw four changes to the side from last week. The returning Dave Elrick was joined by Luke Neill and Spencer Savage stepping up from the Dorset side. Also 16 year old Freddie Pryce was selected for his First Team debut. Andy Cooke appointed as his mentor for the day. This meant there were four Under 17’s in the team. Playing away at Sway this top of the table clash was given the build up on our opponents Twitter feed as ‘promises to be an absolute humdinger’.
Toss won and Parley elected to bat. Openers Shane Green and Jack Rowett survived testing spells from the opening attack until the 14th over when at 32 the first wicket fell and JR was joined by the skipper Alex Nippard. Wrestilng back the initiative the pair added 156 when Nips holed out for a lively and well made 79 from 75 balls. Jack followed in a similar manner on 203 having scored 96 in 120 balls in a constructive and entertaining knock. Roshan Embalagama added a quick 37 and Freddie Pryce scored 18 not out from just 8 deliveries at the end. From 86 for 1 after over 21 the remaining 29 overs produced another 200 runs. Final total 286 for 7 wickets.
Ollie Green (10-4-17-5) ensured the Sway reply started badly as Roshan took two catches behind the stumps without a run scored. Then Sam Ayres pouched a one handed worldy to make it 12 for 3 from 8 overs. A couple of middle order partnerships followed before the last five wickets fell for the addition of forty runs in ten overs. Decent fielding, good catching and the skipper’s 3 for 36 from 8 overs saw the innings close on 170 at the end of over 41. In clean bowling the last three victims Ollie only conceded five scoring shots in his overall set of 62 deliveries.
A really good performance all round with concentration levels unsurpassed in the season so far. It can be done! It actually looked impressive. The 24 point haul earned the side a rise to the summit of County One. Seven weeks remaining – a repeat each week would be welcome. Thank you to all parental attendees for your combined support.
6 July - Another hot and sunny day – who’s complaining? With Elrick and Williams on holiday and Cridland working there were spots for Ollie Green and Stutter with a season debut for Jamie Hicks. Our visitors Old Basing lost the toss which meant a stint in the sun.
Sam Collins (92 in 125 balls) and Shane Green (54 in 85 balls) opened up and compiled a perfect platform with a 135 run partnership in 27 overs. Alex Nippard (64 in 51 balls) picked up the pace and a further 58 in 11 overs was added when the crustacean shelled one to the deep and it was clawed. Next up was Roshan Embalagama (46 in 34 balls) and 63 runs in 5 overs saw 256 arrive when the skipper was out. Enter Ollie Green (57 not out in 29 balls). 48 balls later another 94 runs had been added. A final total of 355 for 4 wickets was a great combined effort and clearly dispelled early dressing room thoughts of a lower total.
Old Basing were 26 for 5 in the eighth over in reply. However it was another 31.4 overs before the 10th and last wicket fell. Bowling honours went to Ollie Green (10-1-31-4) with 2 for 34 by Jamie Hicks and mirrored by Sam Ayres. Focus on getting a result waned after the eighth over but does not detract from an excellent unbeaten 124 by Nick Willcock. Old Basing closed on 205 all out in 39.4 overs.
Another 24 points secured in a comprehensive win but a game played in a very good spirit throughout. On behalf of the team a thank you must go to all supporters who turned up to watch. It is appreciated.
29 June - The day began with a breakfast at Chez Shane Green and many thanks to the chef for a full English – not everyone could face the black pudding but all liked a bit of sausage! Very hot and sunny day and the tactic talk produced the suggestion the game was called off due to the heat. Visitors were Gosport Borough, who fell from Southern League grace last season. Ollie Green, Fowler–Watt and Stutter not available so returns for Nicholls, Williams and Cridland. Also a return to umpiring for John Barber. It appears the perceived holday last week was actually a night in Birmingham at a Westlife gig! Call it a birthday treat.
Toss lost and the skipper returned to the home dressing room with tail between legs as asked to field. Regrettably the writer did not see too many wickets fall as a supply of drinks/water was required frequently. But from 42 for 3 there was a fourth wicket stand of 82 in 20 overs. Then the remaining six wickets added 59 to achieve a final total of 183 all out in 47.4 overs. Jack Rowett took 3 for 33 from 9 overs, there were to apiece for Chris Williams and Dave Elrick with one wicket each for Cooke, Nippard and Nicholls. A decent effort in the heat with two good catches from Alex Cridland.
In reply Shane Green fell in the third over, followed by Nippard and Embalagama to be 25 for 3 in the ninth over. A fine rescue partnership of 78 runs between opener Collins and Rowett followed before a disasterous change of gloves saw JR out next ball for 38. A serene and unbeaten partnership of 81 saw victory secured after 38.4 overs. Sam Collins showed patience and guile to be 72 not out at the end and was ably supported by some well placed drives by Sam Ayres who was unbeaten on 37.
A good result as Gosport had only tasted defeat once before during the season. The result lifts Parley to 4th in the County 1 league table. Maximum 24 points secured. We go again next week.
Thank you to Chairman Mark Barber for hosting a BBQ for all teams at his home after all games had finished.
22 June - A pleasant sunny day at Easton & Martyr Worthy saw the return of Fowler-Watt and Ayres for the unavailable Hicks and Nicholls. Good to see ten out of the starting eleven able to focus ahead and at the beginning of the game.
Toss lost and Parley asked to field first. Ollie Green led the way with 4 for 28 from 8.1 overs and was ably supported by AFW with 2 for 24, Dave Elrick (8-1-34-2) and Jack Rowett with 1 for 26 from an unchanged six overs – clearly an achievement in itself! The final total was 121 all out in 28.1 overs.
An excellent tea was followed by the early loss of Sam Collins without troubling the scorers. Solid and watchful partnerships followed with Alex Nippard 38 and Ollie Green 44 not out top scoring. Nice to see Andy Cooke with his pads on and at the crease when the target was passed at 125 for 4 wickets in 27.4 overs.
Victory achieved and the steady climb up the table continued. Thank you to Martyn Levitt for stepping in to undertake the umpiring duties. Was that really water in Jack Rowett’s glass when the celebratory drinks were being consumed? Focus restored?
15 June - Match cancelled due to rain
8 June - First and importantly a thank you to all of those people who contributed to allow this game to proceed after some adverse weather. Visitors Longparish arrived to be faced with a team who had disappointed themselves and others with their performance at Bedhampton a week earlier.
Captain Nippard won the toss and chose to field on a dry deck but damp outfield. By bowling the opposition skipper with the third ball of the day Ollie Green vindicated that decision. That became 8 for 2 in the eighth over. Regrettably some catches went begging and the bowling was perhaps fuller than required leading to a recovery. In over 37 the fifth wicket fell with the score on 150. Earlier a heavy rain shower had caused the loss of 20 minutes play. The covers protected the wicket but the ground staff got soaked. Alex Nippard remembered he has the ability to bowl. His nine overs went for 37 runs but accounted for 3 wickets – perhaps we may see him bowl again this season? After a late rally and receiving 22 wides Longparish settled on 212 for 7 with a full 50 over allocation. The target adjustment for the time lost meant the chase was to get 203 in 45 overs.
A dogged and determined response against the new ball pair saw just 32 runs from the first 15 overs. Maybe some people saw this as slow but no wickets had been lost. Now both openers began to blossom and runs began to flow. A partnership of 155 was eventually broken with Shane Green assessed LBW in over 32. His 64 runs showed a return to form and the regaining of confidence in his body and ability. The win was achieved by 8 wickets with four overs to spare. Sam Collins remained undefeated on 81 and is clearly enjoying the home decks this year. Looking assured he managed 23 runs from his initial 58 deliveries and then scored 58 from the next 77, including a couple of sixes.
Although not taking a direct part in games individuals are playing for the team and the Club. This is vital and there will be times when they will be required to contribute to either the team or the Club.
Cricket at this level and aiming beyond this level is not all about scoring 250+ with ease and/or taking 10 wickets quickly and with ease. Cricket needs to be worked at. Aiming to win is essential but achieving a win brings many factors into consideration. The majority of cricket winners use their heads, their own and others experience and their ability – in that order. Wins and winners bring rewards. Rewards satisfy aims.
1 June - No match report available
25 May - The annual challenge was here again – Sevens weekend compounded by Hampshire’s participation in the One Day Cup Final at Lords and England v Australia in a World Cup warm up match at the Ageas. However a fantastic effort from the captains meant all four teams were ready to play for Parley on the day, although none of the appointed captains were scheduled to play for their own XI.
Visitors Ryde arrived on a warm and sunny day with Sam Collins taking the captain’s armband as the usual skipper was not there. No guesses required as to his chosen destination for the weekend!
Clearly responsibility sits well on Sam’s shoulders and shaking off the decapod crustacean image he won the toss, elected to bat and scored 116 in 137 deliveries as he opened with Shane Green, who was making a welcome return after injury. At 56 for 3 Sam was joined by Ollie Green, who scored 122 in a run a ball knock. The excellent 221 run partnership was good to watch and paved the way to a final total of 322 for 5. Both batted very well and went ‘big’ . The standard is now set for the season!
The Ryde reply began steadily and their run rate increased but at 228 for 9 after a full allocation there was no winning ticket as they fell short by 94 runs. Ollie Green followed his ton with 9-2-14-2. Season debuts were completed by Adam Fowler-Watt and James Miller and in the latter part of the innings Spencer Savage tempted the opposition and secured 3 wickets for 63 runs.
The deck played well as the accumulated 550 runs indicate. The game was played in a good spirit. Perfection would have been a full 24 points – something to strive for, but a win is a win!
18 May - What a difference a week makes! Luke Neill, Andy Cooke and Chris Williams replaced the unavailable Rowett, Roffey and Subbhian. The visit to Burridge II on a dry but cloudy day was important. Ahead of the game there was a more intense warm up and an attitude of being keen to make amends for last week. Toss won and we elected to bat first.
Some early movement saw a cautious start and at 65 for 4 in the 15th over partnerships were required. Step up Roshan Embalagama. Showing maturity and shot selection an excellent 92 runs in 104 balls was key. He added 87 with Ollie Green (32) and a further 87 with debutant Andy Cooke (28). All out for 259 from a full 50 overs the 47 extras conceded boosted the total.
Ollie Green (6-2-10-3), still aggrieved at his earlier LBW dismissal, opened with decent pace and was very ably supported by all of the bowlers and some top grabs. Dave Elrick (7-2-16-3) and Jack Nicholls (6-5-2-2) and one wicket each for Spencer Savage and Chris Williams, who also took a hat-trick of slip catches, saw the home side routed in 29.5 overs for just 62 runs.
Hopefully the team will reflect on their own feelings when comparing the results of the first two weeks. Winning is enjoyable and that showed on faces when the celebratory beers arrived. With increased confidence for the next game there is no reason to see standards reduced.
11 May - So the 2019 season starts. No sooner does the football season end and within 10 minutes cricket commences.
Visitors Hook & Newnham Basics II won the toss and chose to bowl on a greenish damp deck which appeared to flatten out as the game progressed.
Wickets fell steadily with Sam Collins 39 and Jack Rowett 30 showing patience was rewarded. All out for 165 in 47.2 overs. Ollie Green (10-3-23-3 ) trimmed the response with two early wickets and 18 runs on the board. But with too many overs containing a loose ball boundary the opposition won by 4 wickets in 43.5 overs (Jack Nichols 2 for 23 and Jack Roffey claiming a 1st team debut wicket).
Leagues are not lost or won in the opening match of the season. There are a further 17 games to follow which will influence the final league positions. Watch this space.
Finally a lament for 'piggy' who got the chop, had a slow roasting, smelt hamazing and still hogged the limelight!
2018 Match Reports
25 August - A pleasant sunny day greeted the last match day of the season. Shane Green and Jack Rowett returned for Hicks and Subbhian. On a Bank Holiday weekend we had been paired with an away trip to the Isle of Wight against Ryde. With minibus and Southampton ferry pre-booked the 8am meet at Parley proved challenging for some and we rolled out 30 minutes late to be met at Red Funnel by a ghost-like Sam Ayres ‘fresh’ from a 24 hour session at the Reading Festival. Despite a circular route hiccup to revisit parts of Ryde we arrived full of lambretta fumes and traffic weary ready for this important fixture. Earning 13 points i.e. a win, would guarantee a top two league position and leave us in the promotion places. Toss lost and Parley asked to bat first.
At 49 for 3 after 18 overs it had not been a promising start. However Alex Nippard (112 not out) and Roshan Embalagama (55) led an excellent recovery with a 106 run partnership. Nips showed his mettle and remained undefeated with his second ton in recent weeks. This indefatigable knock will make the skipper top run scorer in HCL County 1 for the season with 758 at 54.14 from 15 matches. Final score 260 for 7 wickets.
The opposition reply mirrored the game pattern from last week. A decent start but with 87 for 3 descending to 131 for 8 in a spell of 15 overs. The last two wickets added 72 runs to keep it interesting but 203 all out from 43.4 overs meant victory by 57 runs. Bowling figures were Wilson (7.4-1-35=3), Elrick (10-2-28-2), Beardsley (10-1-34-2), Rowett (7-1-54-2) and Blackley (9-0-45-1).
Mission accomplished. There were a few beers consumed between the game ending at 7.30pm and rocking into Parley with DJ Mark Wilson just after midnight.
On behalf of the players thanks go to the Chairman and committee for their backing. Also a big thank you to the loyal band of supporters who have driven many miles to follow and be there for the team. You know who you are and the support is very much appreciated. Grateful thanks to Brian Nippard and Cat Bland for scoring so proficiently during the season. We cannot play without you being there. Thank you to John Barber for his umpiring duties. He stood for every game so we were never 'one short'. Lastly thanks to Crispo, Cohen and Jimmy for all on pitch preparation.
On behalf of Parley Cricket Club a thank you to each and every one of the 25 players who represented the Hants 1 team in the 17 completed fixtures during the season. Everyone can look back and know they have contributed to the success. Special mention to Alex Nippard and Sam Collins as leaders of the gang. There have been many notable performances on the field so please take a little time to savour the season. Off the field most games enjoyed suitable alcoholic enjoyment! Be proud of your achievement. You have made history which you can now enjoy and look forward to 2019.
From a personal viewpoint it has been my absolute pleasure to have been with you on each step throughout the season. In a similar manner to 2017 thank you for your company and commitment in 2018. In years to come you may not remember scores or the opposition but you will remember Parley and your team colleagues. KC
18 August - Shane Green, Jack Rowett and Jack Nicholls out with Mark Stutter, Arun Subbhian and Sam Ayres returning. Cloudy and dull but warm conditions prevailed throughout. Toss lost and visitors Hook & Newnham Basics II deciding to bowl first.
Batting appeared to be challenging and at half-time drinks the score was 70 for3 (25 overs). However Stutter (30) fell to the first ball after the interval. This brought together George Wilson (37) and Sam Ayres (27) who produced a good 56 run partnership to lift the scoring rate. Jamie Hicks was undefeated on 22 at the close of the innings which totalled 179 for 8 wickets after the 50 overs.
Bowling straighter and fielding smarter than last week Parley set about taking early Hook wickets. These were not forthcoming and after 23 overs the reply stood at 72 for 1. Some scoreboard pressure began to hinder the opposition although the score had increased to 137 for 4 from 38.1 overs Hook needed 43 runs from 71 balls with 6 wickets in hand. Then four wickets fell in the space of 17 deliveries for the addition of just one run. At 159 the last wicket fell in 47.5 overs. All five bowlers took a wicket with George Wilson the pick with an excellent controlled spell (10-1-25-4).
This victory was achieved with determination and actually looking like the team wanted to win. The final league match of the season next week will need the same qualities to be displayed. If successful second place in HCL County 1 is the ultimate reward.
11 August - Sam Ayres not available so a welcome return for Tom Blackley after missing 11 weeks with a broken bone in his hand. Weather conditions poor with long periods of drizzle. Toss lost and hosts Easton & Martyr Worthy chose to bat.
One of our worst fielding performances of the season with vital and timely dropped catches and 45 extras combined to boost the opposition score to 204 for 8 after 50 overs. Jack Rowett took 2 for 24.
During our reply eleven overs were lost due to heavier rain and a revised target of 160 from 39 overs was set. Alex Nippard scored 55 being exactly half of all the teams runs off the bat. He showed what was possible with a resolve to focus and achieve. A final total of 126 all out in 37.1 overs.
There was disappointment throughout the side but we came second because much of the damage was self-inflicted. Regardless of results elsewhere we go again next week and need to restore the undoubted qualities displayed in the hitherto long unbeaten run. The next performance is in our own hands.
4 August - By way of selection Hicks and Rowett return for the unlucky Subbhian and Savage. George Wilson has been recruited for the final four games to cover for the Australia bound Ollie Green and there was awelcome return for Sam Collins who has missed the last 8 games with a badly broken finger. With the sun shining and hot playing conditions the visitors Alton II won the toss and elected to bat. Not a popular choice for the home team.
At 65 for 7 in the 20th over that decision may have been questioned. However the last three wickets proved harder to get and the score doubled to 127 all out in 30.2 overs. Only 85 runs came off the bat with a further 42 runs conceded in extras. Jack Rowett championed the bowlers with a ‘Michelle’ (8-0-32-5). Exclude his wides and those figures were 5 wickets for 13 runs!
With a steady start 122 runs were scored for the loss of four wickets with Sam Collins scoring 34 and Roshan Embalagama 27. So 6 runs required to win with 6 wickets and 24 overs in hand. Who can explain or comprehend why exactly 24 balls later the scoreboard showed 127 for the loss of 9 wickets and compelled last batter Dave Elrick to enter the fray with a run still required for a win!! The tension was high as the first ball was successfully blocked. Second ball and his flashing blade attempted to thrash a half volley through the covers for winning run but the ball ended up in the wicketkeepers gloves. Fortunately a leg side tickle for four next ball brought victory and much relief. Total 131 for 9 from 31 overs.
A win is a win but a few more bonus points would have been welcome. Break out the beers- thank you to John Barber for his generous alcoholic donation.
On Sunday morning after a session of generous alcoholic consumption three of the victorious team were woken by our Under 8 team entering the home dressing room ready for their game – Sleeping Beauty, Rip Van Winkle and Sleepy the dwarf? No names mentioned – can you guess who?
28 July - Jack Nicholls returned for the unavailable Hicks as the only change for the visit to St Cross and Symondians III. A team breakfast in Ringwood was enjoyed and Shane Green still had time to check out the Saturday market stalls. No purchase made – was he looking for another HCL County One victory or maybe to buy a wicket for later? Nips won the toss and decided to bat.
After only 4.4 overs Mark Stutter and Shane were back in the shed at 18 for 2 and thoughts of the wrong decision were posed. However the perfect riposte came in the form of an excellent partnership of 195 between Alex Nippard (113) and Roshan Embalagama (77) in a further 30 overs. The skipper went big. Who can go even bigger in the last month of the season? Arun Subbhian (29 in 17 balls) and 44 extras boosted the innings total to 316 all out in 49.2 overs. Despite his many protestations Harry Beardsley’s six was not the biggest or the best – but it did cross the rope!
During the innings Arun attempted to throw the ball back to the opposition after a four had crossed the boundary. This resulted in a reverse propeller and the ball was lost among deep and head high nettles and brambles. Only found several overs later was this a tactical masterstroke? Or simply an interlude of enormous comical value? Ask Arun the stinging question!
In reply the hosts lost wickets at regular intervals and finally succumbed at 125 after 34.4 overs. All five bowlers recorded tidy figures with Ollie Green the most successful ( 9.4–3–32–5 ). After the game Andy Burgess, their umpire and Chairman of the St Cross & Symondians club took Nips and myself to one side and exuded praise on our sportsmanship , fielding performance and Nips captaincy. Nice to hear from a top Southern League organisation. Well done chaps – fully deserved.
Back home the inaugural Green Games arrived with a fanfare but ended before it had really started – a damp squib and less than impressive! Quite contrary to the day’s cricketing performance.
21 July - Another warm and sultry day. Stutter back for the holidaying Rowett and Hicks replacing Nicholls. Chief tosser Nippard successful again and Parley decided to bat first and ask the visitors Burridge II to field.
A good start achieved with 48 runs accumulated after 7 overs without loss. This moved on to 92 for 3 in over 20. That was followed by the excellent match winning partnership of 141 between Ollie Green (85 in 68 balls) and Alex Nippard (77 in 120 deliveries) and added in 21 overs. After the full allocation the runs column totalled 280 with 7 wickets lost.
In response no opposition batter scored more than 30 and there were four ducks. Team fielding was very good on a lightening outfield. In support of this there were two grabs of note – Shane Green performed a left handed belly flop (to take Spenny by surprise after last week) and skipper Nips held on to a low down effort to end the game. There were wickets shared between all five bowlers with economy the name of the game. Top exponents were Dave Elrick (9-1-20-3) and Ollie Green (8-1-28-3). Total 121 all out in 33 overs. Parley win by 159 runs.
The appearance of two blow- up childrens paddling pools during the first innings created much excitement. When filled with water the attention levels peaked. It was as if the Green/Nippard partnership had become a secondary thing of beauty and importance? The paddling pools did however come into their own later when housing and cooling the after match beers. The importance of that was primary – just like cricket!
The deck was very good – big thank you to Crispian Stewart for his preparation contribution.
14 July - Just as hot and just as sunny. Two changes for the side journeying to Old Tauntonians & Romsey II with Sam Ayres back for the unavailable Stutter and a First team debut for 14 year old Spencer Savage replacing the still retired 63 year old KC. Toss won and elected to bat.
Opinions suggested the hosts attack was one of the best faced this season so to reach 234 all out in 49.5 overs was decent. It could have been better – plenty got in yet failed to go on and the last five wickets fell for 12 runs in 17 balls. Top scorers were Nippard 44, Ayres 44, Ollie Green 37 and Shane Green 31. But still decent.
In reply a wicketless opening nine overs had 41 runs on the board. Then Elrick (10-0-38-3) and Beardsley (10-2-21-2) bowled good spells in tandem to see the chase at 101 for 5 after 29 overs. Target remaining 134 runs in 21 overs. Enter the debutant. Spenny showed his worth and impressed with figures of 7.3-0-42-3 at a vital time when the opposition needed to add impetus to their run scoring. Two clean bowled and their opening bat stumped on 78 after batting for 152 minutes. The innings closed on 168 after 44.3 overs. Victory by 66 runs. There was no need to ask Spenny if he had enjoyed his debut – the ear to ear grin said it all!
To celebrate and extend the days enjoyment a boat trip down the River Stour was meticulously planned. Setting out from Wimborne the chosen destination was Branksome. With virtually all players press ganged as crew under Captain Harry B there were a couple of hinderences. Firstly the Stour and Branksome do not have a joint meeting place. Secondly has anyone got a boat they can borrow? Oh rowlocks!! Maybe no stourboard? No port oar rum but after a few stern beers (not Spenny) the flowing suggestions regarding how these challenges could be overcome were good value and pure entertainment.
Very much like Spenny’s debut. He had a leading hand and an excellent rating - take a bow!
7th July - Very hot and very sunny continues. With England v Sweden kicking off at 3pm in the World Cup quarter final the match began at 11.30am by agreement with visitors Andover II. Three changes to the side with the returning Rowett and Ollie Green and due to mass unavailability Keith Clarke unretired himself for this single game. Toss won and the opposition inserted.
This plan was working well as Andover reached 70 for 7 in the 24th over. However a rearguard action saw that doubled to 142 all out after 41.1 overs. Leading wicket taker was Harry Beardsley (10-3-22-3) with tight economic spells from Elrick, Nicholls and Nippard conceding just a combined 30 runs in 17 overs. Top scorer was Extras with 33 given away.
In reply we were 34 for 1 after 8 overs when the elongated break saw a 2-0 victory for England. Thanks to Dave Elrick for masterminding the TV coverage. Wickets fell at regular intervals after the restart. With Alex Nippard top scoring with 38 an unbeaten partnership of 40 between Jack Rowett and Arun Subbhian saw the team home at 145 for 5 after 31 overs. Victory by 5 wickets.
To celebrate both wins here are a few Parley and World Cup player comparisons:
Alex Nippard v Harry Kane - The skipper. Luke Neill v Luka Modrich - The treasurer’s son.
Arun Subbhian v Deli Alli – No – our Mumbai ally! Willow v Willian – Spelling mistake.
Jack Rowett v Idrissa Gueye – Questions have been asked? Sam Ayres v Neymar – Lovely barnet.
Jack Nicholls v Kim Young-gwon – Baby of the side. Bert v Fred – Northern!
Dave Elrick v Saudi Arabian team – All very el-rich. Shane Green v Nemanja Matic – Runs autoMatic
Harry Beardsley v Christian Ramos – Our devout shagger! Ollie Green v Oliver Giroud – OG top striker 9 for 15
Adam Fowler Watt v Ruben Loftus-Cheek - Clearly barrels x 2.
Football's coming home!!!!!! and Cricket's coming home!!!!!! Enjoy!!!!!!
30th June - Another hot and sunny day with a 130 mile round trip to Rowledge just over the Surrey border. Four more changes to last week, mainly due to the absence of the takers of all ten wickets, Ollie Green and Jamie Hicks. Toss lost and the hosts elected to bat at the Southern League ground. There were some sad Parley faces!
Rowledge II’s started steadily reaching 89 for 2 in the 20th over. Runs had flowed through a vacant third man area without being directed to slip or gully. However during the next nine overs Harry Beardsley (10-4-18-3) and Dave Elrick (10-1-27-2) bowled very well in tandem and created a stranglehold to see the score move on to 113 for7. In the remaining 21 overs the home side added 90 runs for the loss of 2 wickets to total 203 for 9. The final partnership produced 30 unbroken runs, although two chances went to ground in the last two overs. In view of the heat, quick outfield and full 50 over allocation this was a good team effort to restrict the opposition.
Progressively the firm track had been losing any available bounce and with the first ball of the reply Mark Stutter found out how much, being trapped LBW to a non-riser. Alex Nippard (45) and Roshan Embalagama (37) combined to take the score to 90 for 2 in the 24th over. A mini wobble saw both fall caught behind to wayward deliveries and at 113 for 5 from 29 overs there was still work to be done. Up to the plate stepped Sam Ayres with an excellent 67 not out (8 x 4’s and 4 x 6’s), being his maiden first team half century. A good partnership with Arun Subbhian, who offered strong support and remained unbeaten on 22, of 96 runs followed to secure the win at 209 for 5 in 48.1 overs.
This was a team victory and special thanks to Cat Bland for scoring, especially with no opposition scorer, Linsey and Andy Neill and Claire Coombes for their support and John for umpiring. All part of the team for the day. Returning to Parley at 9.45pm it had been a full 12 hours since the original meeting and departure time.
23rd June - On a hot and sunny day our visitors were unbeaten Fareham and Crofton. Due to injury and holiday commitments four changes were necessary to the Parley line up from last week. With the heat a Parley victory at the toss and an invitation to the opposition to have a bowl was greeted with rapturous applause and approval from the home dressing room. A firm track and quick outfield was on offer but could a challenging target be set?
Batting the full 50 overs the team answered in the affirmative compiling 310 runs for the loss of 9 wickets and also completing 50 overs umpiring duty at square leg. Significant contributions came from Alex Nippard 75 and Shane Green 53, who shared a 99 run 2nd wicket partnership. This was broken at 159 in the 29th over. For those good at maths the last 20 overs produced a healthy 150 runs. Included in that was the 58 in 48 balls from Ollie Green who scored with freedom. This was a good team performance. When will someone decide to go big?
After tea F&C commenced the chase at 5.12pm. Little did we know what was about to happen! At 6.13pm F&C were all out for 40. A 270 run defeat stated by renowned journalist Mike Vimpany to be the heaviest defeat ever by F&C? Jamie Hicks bowled well ( 7-1-23-1 ) and the fielding was good. But it was Ollie Green who put in the performance of a lifetime ( 7.2–0–15-9 ). His last 5 wickets came in 12 balls without conceding a run. MV has indicated this achievement is the best ever recorded in a Hampshire League County One match. Records are made to be broken. Only five scoring shots in 44 deliveries, four bowled, four caught and an LBW – virtually unplayable. There were 3 catches for Chris Williams. Six ducks, nine extras and a joint top score of 11 with only four opposition batsmen troubling the scorers.
Cue the celebrations – more than a few tins were consumed! The competition this week was to drink your own height. The empty tins being taped together like a wand or staff and hats made from the cardboard wrapping – what a wizard idea! Later a town centre visit for some was clearly evident – my return to the ground on Sunday morning to clear up the celebrations found a number of our vehicles still in the car park. I half expected the dressing room to be full of sleeping beauties. No doubt recovery followed relatively quickly to allow viewing of the World Cup game England versus Panama.
Nice try Panama but no cigar for you – that had already gone to Ollie Green. He and those who were there will remember that performance for years to come. Whether OG can recall much of the record breaking celebrations is a different matter for discussion on another day. Well bowled young man!
16th June - “Greens hit gold to give Bishops Waltham the blues”. You read it here first!
Skipper Alex Nippard’s blueprint for success was to give BW the green light to bat first on a green looking track with grey skies overhead. This was away at BW and a blue ribbon performance was requested. The red carpet was laid out for the return of Sam Ayres to the first team.
In their 50 overs the home side scored 206 for 8 wickets – a good restricting effort by us. Brownie points to bowlers Harry Beardsley 10-2-23-1, Shane Green 9-0-41-2 and Ollie Green 10-2-31-1. Shane Green also had two direct hit run outs. Sadly it was a black day for Alex Cridland who needed hospital red cross treatment for a dislocated and broken left thumb whilst completing a great catch. Evergreen and renowned sage Keith Clarke completed ten overs of 12th man duties out of the blue.
The reply began well and being 101 for 1 at halfway we were tickled pink. Then Stutter was LBW. In fact plumb. BW did not wave a white flag and a purple patch brought a couple of wickets. After 31 overs 122 runs scored. Shane Green, no shrinking violet and tiring from blowing out numerous candles earlier in the week and Ollie Green, our resident green fingered expert, came together and left BW green with envy of their 88 run winning partnership. Ollie Green creamed a six to win which left him not out on 49 after a lovely knock. Shane Green produced a silver spoon innings batting throughout to finish unbeaten on 91 from 128 cherries. Total 210 for 3 in 45 overs. Victory by 7 wickets.
No grey areas here. A blue chip performance. Thanks to Andy Neill who volunteered to make the ‘blue light’ drive to hospital – no blackmail required. The headline says it all in black and white. Who said cricket was not a colourful game!
9th June - Sam Collins broke a finger against Longparish last week and faces a minimum six week absence. Alex Nippard returned as the Club tosser. He was successful and Parley had first use of the Fry/Crispo produced track against a previously winless United Services Portsmouth. Jamie Hicks stepped in to play his season opener.
Stutter (36) and Shane Green (30) eased the score to 70 in the 17th over. Later Embalagama (54 in 58 balls) added some impetus before four wickets fell in 6 overs for the addition of just 13 runs. From 178 for 8 a lively ninth wicket partnership of 47 between Arun Subbhian (47 from 27 deliveries) and Jamie Hicks (20) took the final total to 243 all out in 49.5 overs.
Wow! – after 7 overs the visitors were in trouble after scoring 16 runs for the loss of 6 wickets. The innings closed on 89 after 18.1 overs with wickets for all bowlers – Ollie Green 6-3-7-4, Jamie Hicks 6-1-28-2, Jack Nicholls 3.1-0-20-2 and Chris Williams 3-0-29-2. The last 8.1 overs produced 62 runs as the tail wagged. A comprehensive result and a 6pm finish. Good to get back to winning ways and KC rewarded the team with beverages.
During the beers the competitive element of half the side remained unsatisfied and ‘back to school’ challenges were issued and undertaken. With sprints, a round the boundary run and throwing the cricket ball competitions there was strong evidence of the kindergarten culture which is regularly exhibited. Still a good time was had by all! Teacher’s marks for today 10/10.
2nd June - Next up was away at Longparish. A damp track. Toss won and insertion completed.
With the first ball Ollie Green bowled their opener and at 12 for 3 with all clean bowled by OG the decision seemed justified. It was and half way through the allocation they were 85 for 4. But for 51 extras, including 39 wides, the game would have been won. After 50 overs the opposition totalled 208 for 7 wickets. Harry Beardsley bowled a miserly unchanged spell of 10-3-18-2. He was quick to find some turn and clearly benefitted from his even quicker 100 mph journey up the M27.
A steady reply began and at 130 for 3 with 18 overs remaining the pursuit was well on track. However Embalagama (40) and Stutter (62), who had batted well together, both fell within four overs of each other. Thereafter nobody was able to stick around long enough and wickets fell at regular intervals. The innings ended ten runs short on 198 from 48.5 overs.
Availability and injury issues have continued to deplete the team. Notwithstanding this lessons need to be learned about bowling straighter and catching with confidence. The tide will change and when United Services Portsmouth visit next week hopefully we can ride high on the crest of a wave.
26th May - Annual challenge regarding player availability. Enormous thanks to all captains for getting sides out and to those who played for Parley in the four matches. No thanks to those who chose to attend the alternative entertainment.
First team defeated by Hythe & Dibden who won the toss and batted to score 256 for 4 wickets. Chasing we achieved 214 for 9 with an excellent knock of 88 by Shane Green.
Regrettably the writer did not see enough of the game, due to other duties, to comment further. Thank you to Brian Nippard for stepping in as scorer on the day, relieving the writer of that task and allowing all of those other duties to be undertaken and a game of cricket to be completed.
19th May - An away day at Hursley Park on a glorious sunny day after breakfast in Ringwood. The Quarters, home of HP, looking resplendent to match. However the result of our cricket performance was second out of two. This game said much about County 1 cricket.
Toss won and choosing to bat first a score of 186 all out in 46.3 overs was disappointing. With Embalagama (55 runs from 50 balls) and Shane Green (33 from 60 deliveries) as main contributors we need to bat longer and be selective. Although there was early movement from the HP attack poor shots and a run out accounted for most of our dismissals.
After tea our ground fielding was good but not supported by vital spilled opportunities. Similarly with 37 wides our bowling lacked direction. Harry Beardsley (10-2-33-3) being the exception. For the loss of four wickets the winning runs were struck after 41.4 overs, thereby reflecting the extra deliveries. In summary were we outclassed? No. Are we capable of better? Yes.
Later we received the news that Tom Blackley had broken a bone in his hand whilst attempting to field from his own bowling and would miss the next 6 weeks of the season.
Big thanks to Brian Nippard for providing his scoring prowess. Also thank you to Mark Barber, Chairman for hosting a Club BBQ back home for members and supporters after the game. Much appreciated gentlemen.
12th May - What a difference a week makes! Same team, same game but a very different performance!! Top of the table Shrewton were the visitors. With the toss won and a decision to bat made the innings total of 246 for 7 in 50 overs reflected the long outfield. It could have been a score of 350 plus. Captain Alex Nippard led from the front with a positive and fluent 77 in 102 balls. He was ably supported by 66 from Shane Green in a partnership of 144 and later 25 not out from Roshan Embalagama. The writer, ever the perfectionist, would have wished for an additional 4 runs to achieve maximum batting bonus points.
After tea Ollie Green set the tone with a wicket in the first over of the Shrewton reply. The tone intensified and at 20 for 6 after 9 overs Ollie had taken five wickets, including an impressive hat-trick. After 24.4 overs the visitors were 60 all out with Ollie Green (8.4-0-21-6), backed up by Tom Blackley 2 for 17 and Harry Beardsley 2 for 15.
Club members, you know who you are, have worked tirelessly through the winter months and more specifically on the ground over the last week before the game, to ensure cricket continued at Parley. All players owe a huge vote of thanks and a sincere debt of gratitude to those people. Achieving a result like this makes it satisfying and unconditionally worthwhile to those same members.
Standards have been set and the team has something to build on. However after the game Jack Rowett, performing in his own music video in the showers, showed there is always room for improvement. I wonder if that You Tube recording will ever become public? We go again in another week.
5th May - Following promotion last year the entry to HCL County 1 was much anticipated. However as in 2017 the opening fixture away to Ropley saw us defeated.
16 year old Luke Neill made his First team debut and claimed two victims behind the stumps and conceded just a single bye as Ropley were all out for 202 in 47.5 overs. Wickets were shared about with Tom Blackley taking 3 for 36, Shane Green 2 for 35 and Jack Rowett 2 for 54. There were two run outs, including a smart field and direct hit by Sam Collins. The other fielding highlight was a ‘left handed over my shoulder behind my back grab’ by Harry Beardsley to dismiss Shaun Udal, ex-Hampshire and England, off Blackers bowling. A top score of 77 from their overseas being vital to the overall score.
So four runs an over required within the allocated 50 overs. With the exception of skipper Alex Nippard (50 in 92 deliveries) and Shane Green 27 the batting could have been better. Some may look back and have chosen an improved shot selection given the chance again. Application and ‘batting with our heads’ must feature in the future. All out for 177 in 45 overs shows there was scope to have won with better innings management. 9 bonus points achieved.
This narrow loss was against a team who finished 5th in the last campaign. We can do better with stronger belief in our individual and team capabilities.
2017 Match Reports
26th August - A glorious sunny day greeted the last match day of the season. Ahead of the trip to Redlynch & Hale the maths were simple - 3 points needed for promotion and 21 points needed to become the champions of the County 2 League. An early morning (well 10.30 am) team breakfast was well attended and all the talk was about........the warm up football match!
On arrival 90 minutes before start time the deck was found in good nick but very dry. With the football, stretching exercises, fielding drills and separate batting and bowling practices it proved to be one of the best pre-match warm up sessions of the summer. Our tosser Sam Collins won the coin battle and elected to bat. Basically the next 6 hours went as close to plan as could be expected. After our 45 overs we had scored 332 runs for the loss of 7 wickets and R&H were bowled out for 183 runs.
The runs were scored by Sam Collins (38), Shane Green (60), Alex Nippard (15), Ollie Green (87 in 47 balls), Alex Cridland (36), Roshan Embalagama (24), Jack Rowett (32 n.o.), Chris Jennings (22) and Tom Blackley (1 n.o.). Jamie Hicks and Harry Beardsley were not required to bat. R&H innings lasted 32.2 overs and Extras with 41 was top scorer. Bowling figures were Tom Blackley (7-0-22-2), Ollie Green (3-0-20-0), Harry Beardsley (10-0-76-2), Alex Nippard (3-0-12-1), Jack Rowett (3-0-16-1) and Jamie Hicks (6.2-1-11-4). Whilst all individual statistics have been listed this was a team performance for the badge. Victory completed and 24 points achieved equals County 2 League winners. Yes!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Come on!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
After a celebratory bottle of beer at the ground the 'shit shirts' returned to Parley for further alcohol consumption and mutual patting of backs. After all the 2017 campaign has not been at all shabby!
On behalf of the players thanks go to the Chairman and committee for their backing. Also a big thank you to the loyal band of supporters who have driven many miles to follow and be there for the team. You know who you are and the support is very much appreciated. Thanks a bunch to Chris 'Willow' Williams, Brian Nippard and Alan Graham for scoring so proficiently during the season - we all look forward to Willow returning to the players balcony next year. Just remember as scorers 'we cannot play without you being there'. Thank you to John Barber for his umpiring duties. He stood for every game so we were never 'one short'. Lastly thanks to Mick, Jimmy, Jim and the Parley Club team for all on pitch preparation, teas and off pitch support.
On behalf of Parley Cricket Club a thank you to each and every one of the 23 players who represented the Hants 1 team in the 13 completed fixtures during the season. Everyone can look back and know they have contributed to the success. Special mention to Sam Collins as leader of the gang, in a year when his Dorset Minor Counties credentials came to the fore. There have been many notable performances on the field so please take a little time to savour the winning. Off the field most games enjoyed 'jugfest' proportions and real spirit! Be proud of your achievement. You have made history which you can now enjoy and look forward to 2018.
From a personal viewpoint it has been my absolute pleasure to have been with you on each step throughout the season. Thank you for your company and commitment in 2017. In years to come you may not remember scores or the opposition but you will remember Parley and your team colleagues. KC
On arrival 90 minutes before start time the deck was found in good nick but very dry. With the football, stretching exercises, fielding drills and separate batting and bowling practices it proved to be one of the best pre-match warm up sessions of the summer. Our tosser Sam Collins won the coin battle and elected to bat. Basically the next 6 hours went as close to plan as could be expected. After our 45 overs we had scored 332 runs for the loss of 7 wickets and R&H were bowled out for 183 runs.
The runs were scored by Sam Collins (38), Shane Green (60), Alex Nippard (15), Ollie Green (87 in 47 balls), Alex Cridland (36), Roshan Embalagama (24), Jack Rowett (32 n.o.), Chris Jennings (22) and Tom Blackley (1 n.o.). Jamie Hicks and Harry Beardsley were not required to bat. R&H innings lasted 32.2 overs and Extras with 41 was top scorer. Bowling figures were Tom Blackley (7-0-22-2), Ollie Green (3-0-20-0), Harry Beardsley (10-0-76-2), Alex Nippard (3-0-12-1), Jack Rowett (3-0-16-1) and Jamie Hicks (6.2-1-11-4). Whilst all individual statistics have been listed this was a team performance for the badge. Victory completed and 24 points achieved equals County 2 League winners. Yes!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Come on!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
After a celebratory bottle of beer at the ground the 'shit shirts' returned to Parley for further alcohol consumption and mutual patting of backs. After all the 2017 campaign has not been at all shabby!
On behalf of the players thanks go to the Chairman and committee for their backing. Also a big thank you to the loyal band of supporters who have driven many miles to follow and be there for the team. You know who you are and the support is very much appreciated. Thanks a bunch to Chris 'Willow' Williams, Brian Nippard and Alan Graham for scoring so proficiently during the season - we all look forward to Willow returning to the players balcony next year. Just remember as scorers 'we cannot play without you being there'. Thank you to John Barber for his umpiring duties. He stood for every game so we were never 'one short'. Lastly thanks to Mick, Jimmy, Jim and the Parley Club team for all on pitch preparation, teas and off pitch support.
On behalf of Parley Cricket Club a thank you to each and every one of the 23 players who represented the Hants 1 team in the 13 completed fixtures during the season. Everyone can look back and know they have contributed to the success. Special mention to Sam Collins as leader of the gang, in a year when his Dorset Minor Counties credentials came to the fore. There have been many notable performances on the field so please take a little time to savour the winning. Off the field most games enjoyed 'jugfest' proportions and real spirit! Be proud of your achievement. You have made history which you can now enjoy and look forward to 2018.
From a personal viewpoint it has been my absolute pleasure to have been with you on each step throughout the season. Thank you for your company and commitment in 2017. In years to come you may not remember scores or the opposition but you will remember Parley and your team colleagues. KC
19th August - Match cancelled as Ellingham have forfeited the game.
12th August - Next up was a visit to Compton & Chandlers Ford. This game saw a welcome return to Parley cricket for OT (Ollie Thomas), fresh from a season at Bryanston and a three week cricket tournament in Barbados. We arrived to find the deck and ground quite damp and little activity. However 15 minutes before the game was due to start a gang mower was paraded around the outfield with a 4x4 vehicle taking the lead. Then a white line was painted to determine the boundary perimeter. The combination of these actions was hardly breached during the afternoon play but they did provide the entertainment for the day as witnessed on social media.
Toss won and shock horror C&CF inserted. It did not take long to realise just how important winning the toss had been. From ball one and difficult to visualise the ball did not bounce above ankle/shin height for the whole game. The first over from Tom Blackley brought the first LBW dismissal. There followed a further 5 successful LBW decisions, lots of unsuccessful LBW appeals and four balls hit the stumps direct at no higher than a third of stump height. 80 all out after 30.1 overs. Top marks for bowling straight to Jack Rowett (8-0-27-5) displaying his new economical run-up and Ollie Green (7.1-1-12-4) displaying enjoyment in his achievements.
The early loss of two wickets, both being LBW decisions, brought Alex Nippard (33 n.o.) and Ollie Green (23) together for a match winning partnership. The successful run chase of 81 for 3 was completed in 16.2 overs.
A ninth win on the bounce !!!
Toss won and shock horror C&CF inserted. It did not take long to realise just how important winning the toss had been. From ball one and difficult to visualise the ball did not bounce above ankle/shin height for the whole game. The first over from Tom Blackley brought the first LBW dismissal. There followed a further 5 successful LBW decisions, lots of unsuccessful LBW appeals and four balls hit the stumps direct at no higher than a third of stump height. 80 all out after 30.1 overs. Top marks for bowling straight to Jack Rowett (8-0-27-5) displaying his new economical run-up and Ollie Green (7.1-1-12-4) displaying enjoyment in his achievements.
The early loss of two wickets, both being LBW decisions, brought Alex Nippard (33 n.o.) and Ollie Green (23) together for a match winning partnership. The successful run chase of 81 for 3 was completed in 16.2 overs.
A ninth win on the bounce !!!
5th August - Petersfield arrived without a win on the road this season and no win at home either. Unseasonal rain arrived and caused several interruptions to play with covers deployed regularly in roadshow fashion.
The opposition skipper described the track as 'a road' before winning the toss and asking Parley to bat. However with an opening partnership of 174 in 27.4 overs he may reflect it was more of motorway proportions. Clearly his choice was looking like a road to disaster. Sam Collins (97 in 104 balls) and Shane Green (54 in 87 balls) both dominated and were licenced to punish any loose deliveries. On the road to the innings stopping at 323 for 6 the tempo was maintained throughout with good contributions from Ollie Green (42) and Alex Cridland (36 not out). It was good to welcome Jack Rowett back to the side after his road to recovery from serious illness.
Due to the earlier rain delays the Petersfield target was reduced to 229 from 26 overs. Starting well their second wicket fell at 104 from 15.3 overs. However the momentum declined as wickets fell to Ollie Green (5-0-30-3) and Jack Rowtt (6-0-44-3). The innings closed on 158 for 9 wickets.
After the previous two weeks washouts it was nice to play again. A shout out to the roadbuilder and all who ensured the game reached a conclusion between the rainbreaks. Effort rewarded with a positive result.A few drinks followed and of course one for the road.
The opposition skipper described the track as 'a road' before winning the toss and asking Parley to bat. However with an opening partnership of 174 in 27.4 overs he may reflect it was more of motorway proportions. Clearly his choice was looking like a road to disaster. Sam Collins (97 in 104 balls) and Shane Green (54 in 87 balls) both dominated and were licenced to punish any loose deliveries. On the road to the innings stopping at 323 for 6 the tempo was maintained throughout with good contributions from Ollie Green (42) and Alex Cridland (36 not out). It was good to welcome Jack Rowett back to the side after his road to recovery from serious illness.
Due to the earlier rain delays the Petersfield target was reduced to 229 from 26 overs. Starting well their second wicket fell at 104 from 15.3 overs. However the momentum declined as wickets fell to Ollie Green (5-0-30-3) and Jack Rowtt (6-0-44-3). The innings closed on 158 for 9 wickets.
After the previous two weeks washouts it was nice to play again. A shout out to the roadbuilder and all who ensured the game reached a conclusion between the rainbreaks. Effort rewarded with a positive result.A few drinks followed and of course one for the road.
29th July - Match cancelled due to rain.
22nd July - Match cancelled due to ground conditions/rain.
15th July - East Woodhay in Berkshire, close to Newbury, provided us with our longest away trip of the season. The day out had been planned and the KC charabang pulled out of Parley at the unearthly time of 9.45 am. This was an hour many of the team had not seen on a Saturday morning for many weeks (unless they were returning home from a good Friday night out). Despite a maximum bus speed of 62 mph we were on our way. A pit stop for a full English was the order of the day and the excited 'kindergarten kids' were set up to play.
On what looked like a belting deck the toss was won and East Woodhay invited to have first use? Clearly shocked only 16 runs came from the opening 8 overs. The tempo did increase and at 84 in over 20 the first wicket fell. The remaining 25 overs produced a further 145 runs to close on 229 for 6. Probably under par. Good spells from Jamie Hicks (10-2-34-3) and Harry Beardsley (10-0-51-2) captured the majority of the wickets. Our fielding could have been better (blame the tantalising and succulent breakfast gravy!)
Collins and Cridland began the reply with positive intent and found the deck to their liking. In the twelfth over Alex perished having looked good for 56 runs from 38 balls and with 81 on the board. Alex Nippard entered the fray and a 100 run partnership ensued. Broken at 181 in the 28th over Sam fell for a lovely 64 (thanks to Jenna for adding width to the Collins weapon). The winning line was crossed in over 36 with Roshan Embalagama not out on 28 and Nips remaining undefeated with an excellent 68. Final score 230 for 3 wickets.
A pleasing victory and smiling faces all round. A slight detour to the Whitchurch Tesco Express alcohol counter was successfully completed. As the smiles on faces widened there were arbitrary fines announced but penalties of additional alcohol easily accepted. Suffice to say the return journey literally 'rocked the bus'. Thanks to DJ Willow for his entertaining selection of musical masterpieces! A pre-planned curry back at Parley awaited the victors (thanks to chef Jim) and a supply of jugs were happily consumed. For some a visit to town also featured.
A great day out and compelling evidence of what club cricket is all about.
On what looked like a belting deck the toss was won and East Woodhay invited to have first use? Clearly shocked only 16 runs came from the opening 8 overs. The tempo did increase and at 84 in over 20 the first wicket fell. The remaining 25 overs produced a further 145 runs to close on 229 for 6. Probably under par. Good spells from Jamie Hicks (10-2-34-3) and Harry Beardsley (10-0-51-2) captured the majority of the wickets. Our fielding could have been better (blame the tantalising and succulent breakfast gravy!)
Collins and Cridland began the reply with positive intent and found the deck to their liking. In the twelfth over Alex perished having looked good for 56 runs from 38 balls and with 81 on the board. Alex Nippard entered the fray and a 100 run partnership ensued. Broken at 181 in the 28th over Sam fell for a lovely 64 (thanks to Jenna for adding width to the Collins weapon). The winning line was crossed in over 36 with Roshan Embalagama not out on 28 and Nips remaining undefeated with an excellent 68. Final score 230 for 3 wickets.
A pleasing victory and smiling faces all round. A slight detour to the Whitchurch Tesco Express alcohol counter was successfully completed. As the smiles on faces widened there were arbitrary fines announced but penalties of additional alcohol easily accepted. Suffice to say the return journey literally 'rocked the bus'. Thanks to DJ Willow for his entertaining selection of musical masterpieces! A pre-planned curry back at Parley awaited the victors (thanks to chef Jim) and a supply of jugs were happily consumed. For some a visit to town also featured.
A great day out and compelling evidence of what club cricket is all about.
8th July - Basingstoke & North Hants 3rds late arrival due to traffic congestion meant a 2.25 pm start and a reduction in overs to 42 per side. Jack Rowett had to excuse himself late on match day with Delhi belly and was replaced by Arun Subbhian, our Delhi welly, to make his first team debut.
Toss lost and asked to bat. Wickets fell at regular intervals and tidy spells from Adam Fowler-Watt (9-0-18-1) and James Miller (10-2-26-0) restricted the opposition. The innings closed at 154 for 8 with Dave Elrick (10-3-36-3) and Shane Green (4-0-20-2 and a Mars bar) capturing the majority of the wickets. Extras were the second highest scorer with 25.
In reply an opening partnership of 69 set a base before Mark Stutter was stuttered out by a JB LBW for 29. Shane Green reached 51 before falling at 105. When the winning runs were scored in the 31st over Alex Nippard remained undefeated on 39. Final total was 157 for 3.
Six wins in a row have shown what the team is capable of and with the standard now established there is a good opportunity to achieve the promotion aspirations set a the start of the season.
Toss lost and asked to bat. Wickets fell at regular intervals and tidy spells from Adam Fowler-Watt (9-0-18-1) and James Miller (10-2-26-0) restricted the opposition. The innings closed at 154 for 8 with Dave Elrick (10-3-36-3) and Shane Green (4-0-20-2 and a Mars bar) capturing the majority of the wickets. Extras were the second highest scorer with 25.
In reply an opening partnership of 69 set a base before Mark Stutter was stuttered out by a JB LBW for 29. Shane Green reached 51 before falling at 105. When the winning runs were scored in the 31st over Alex Nippard remained undefeated on 39. Final total was 157 for 3.
Six wins in a row have shown what the team is capable of and with the standard now established there is a good opportunity to achieve the promotion aspirations set a the start of the season.
1st July-A visit to Locks Heath - they had no umpire, no scorer, no bails, no spare ball etc. Dave Elrick and James Miller (Bis to his Parley colleagues and Queen groupies) were promoted from the Dorset side to add strength to the bowling attack. Toss lost and inserted.
An opening stand of 164 may have prompted the LH captain to think he could have chosen more wisely. Shane Green with an excellent and dominant 122 (nine 4's and seven 6's in 129 balls) and Sam Collins with a fine and patient 55 provided the platform. Although wickets were lost in the chase for later runs a final total of 255 for 7 was accumulated with Ollie Green, caught at long on off the final ball of the innings, after scoring 40 from 27 deliveries.
Although the first wicket fell at 12 a partnership of 129 followed to leave a target of 114 from 14 remaining overs with 8 wickets in hand. Our ground fielding had not been the best and two catches had been put down. Despite this Locks Heath were unable to increase the tempo to the required rate. Four wickets were captured for five runs in the final two overs and the score rested on 225 for 8 with Ollie Green claiming 4 for 40 from his ten overs.
With Jack Nicholls already in Canada for 8 weeks we saw Owen Morris depart for the season today. With a three week school cricket tour to Barbados and an extended Australia trip coaching rugby he is back in June 2018. Clearly the world has shrunk since the writers schooldays. Yes planes, cars and TV have also arrived since then! The Parley boys go with our best wishes.
An opening stand of 164 may have prompted the LH captain to think he could have chosen more wisely. Shane Green with an excellent and dominant 122 (nine 4's and seven 6's in 129 balls) and Sam Collins with a fine and patient 55 provided the platform. Although wickets were lost in the chase for later runs a final total of 255 for 7 was accumulated with Ollie Green, caught at long on off the final ball of the innings, after scoring 40 from 27 deliveries.
Although the first wicket fell at 12 a partnership of 129 followed to leave a target of 114 from 14 remaining overs with 8 wickets in hand. Our ground fielding had not been the best and two catches had been put down. Despite this Locks Heath were unable to increase the tempo to the required rate. Four wickets were captured for five runs in the final two overs and the score rested on 225 for 8 with Ollie Green claiming 4 for 40 from his ten overs.
With Jack Nicholls already in Canada for 8 weeks we saw Owen Morris depart for the season today. With a three week school cricket tour to Barbados and an extended Australia trip coaching rugby he is back in June 2018. Clearly the world has shrunk since the writers schooldays. Yes planes, cars and TV have also arrived since then! The Parley boys go with our best wishes.
24th June-Close neighbours Bournemouth 2nds were todays visitors and included three ex Parley players in their ranks - George Wilson, Salman Khattak and James Hardy. Our tosser was Alex Nippard, replacing the usual tosser Sam Collins, whose arrival had been seriously delayed. Checks with local police cells and hospitals had thankfully produced negative responses.
Choosing to bat first 107 for 1 wicket was achieved at 22 over drinks. Collins (38) became the 'drinks wicket' after three more balls. A good knock from Alex Nippard produced 74 runs from 76 deliveries and ended on 173 in the 34th over. With 4 wickets falling in just four overs final score expectations were reduced. But 55 runs came from the last ten overs to end on 232 for 9 wickets.
In reply the opening partnership produced 39 runs from the first 9 overs and a further 58 from the next 8 overs. However Harry Beardsley bowled an excellent spell (10-1-21-2) and together with Nippard reduced the run flow so that 15 saw only 51 runs scored with 4 wickets lost. With 10 overs remaining, 65 runs required and 6 wickets in hand Parley were not favourites to succeed. Six overs left, 42 required and 5 wickets available. The Bournemouth supporters were looking increasingly confident. Jack Nicholls, who had bowled 2 overs for 25 runs returned and despite his stature stood tall under pressure. He took 4 wickets for 15 runs in 4 overs, all clean bowled. The final wicket fell at 221 after 44.5 overs to achieve victory by 11 runs and claim another maximum 24 points haul.
Choosing to bat first 107 for 1 wicket was achieved at 22 over drinks. Collins (38) became the 'drinks wicket' after three more balls. A good knock from Alex Nippard produced 74 runs from 76 deliveries and ended on 173 in the 34th over. With 4 wickets falling in just four overs final score expectations were reduced. But 55 runs came from the last ten overs to end on 232 for 9 wickets.
In reply the opening partnership produced 39 runs from the first 9 overs and a further 58 from the next 8 overs. However Harry Beardsley bowled an excellent spell (10-1-21-2) and together with Nippard reduced the run flow so that 15 saw only 51 runs scored with 4 wickets lost. With 10 overs remaining, 65 runs required and 6 wickets in hand Parley were not favourites to succeed. Six overs left, 42 required and 5 wickets available. The Bournemouth supporters were looking increasingly confident. Jack Nicholls, who had bowled 2 overs for 25 runs returned and despite his stature stood tall under pressure. He took 4 wickets for 15 runs in 4 overs, all clean bowled. The final wicket fell at 221 after 44.5 overs to achieve victory by 11 runs and claim another maximum 24 points haul.
17th June-Away day at Sway on a fantastic sunny day. Toss won and choosing to bat an LBW brought a loss with only the fourth ball of the game. Steady progress made therafter and Sam Collins (31) and Alex Nippard (50) took the score to 103 for 3 after 26 overs. Step forward Ollie Green, looking really good and adding impetus with 61 runs from 45 balls. Supported by Alex Cridland (27) and later an unbeaten 28 from Chris Jennings this produced an above par total of 251 for 7.
Sway began well with both openers finding the boundary against an attacking field. Jamie Hicks (10-1-24-3) made the breakthrough at 68 in over 18 thanks to a superb mid-on catch by Tom Blackley. With the introduction of Jack Nicholls (7-2-14-3) a tight ring field suppressed the runs and produced wickets. Jamie and Jack bowled with energy and enthusiasm, supported by a pumped fielding group. Sway lost six wickets for 8 runs to be 87 for 8 in over 29. In the remaining 16 overs the team were unable to secure maximum points, despite a 'heat' over from Cridland and two 'even hotter' overs from the captain. Sway ended on 193 for 8 wickets.
A good game of cricket played in the right spirit.
Sway began well with both openers finding the boundary against an attacking field. Jamie Hicks (10-1-24-3) made the breakthrough at 68 in over 18 thanks to a superb mid-on catch by Tom Blackley. With the introduction of Jack Nicholls (7-2-14-3) a tight ring field suppressed the runs and produced wickets. Jamie and Jack bowled with energy and enthusiasm, supported by a pumped fielding group. Sway lost six wickets for 8 runs to be 87 for 8 in over 29. In the remaining 16 overs the team were unable to secure maximum points, despite a 'heat' over from Cridland and two 'even hotter' overs from the captain. Sway ended on 193 for 8 wickets.
A good game of cricket played in the right spirit.
10th June-Arguably the strongest eleven of the season to date were selected for this fixture and featured Adam Fowler-Watt, returning to Parley after only 3 games in 2016 and a recent 3 month trip to Thailand, Cambodia and Vietnam. Although he did not find a new leg spinner for the Club he almost broke the world record for wearing a multitude of silly hats!
Todays visitors were Andover 2nds and were welcomed by a used, damp and green tinged Parley deck. Sam won the toss and elected to bat despite being very undecided. The decision looked flawed at 58 for 4 in the 19th over. By this time the opposition had been reduced to nine men as one had still to arrive and the opening bowler required A&E with a broken thumb attempting to field from his own delivery. However a positive approach led to a match winning stand of 111 between Shane Green (88) and Roshan Embalagama (49) which was broken in over 35. The last ten overs produced 67 runs for the loss of an additional 3 wickets to leave a final total of 236 for 8.
Miserly opening figures from Tom Blackley (7-1-9-1) and Ollie Green (6-0-13-0) eventually saw the opener dismissed on 27 from 14 overs. The innings remained subdued and ultimately ended after 36.3 overs with the score on 132. Alex Nippard with 3 for 26 and Jack Rowett with 3 for 39 were the main wicket takers.
Another maximum haul of 24 points and signs of a winning confidence.
Todays visitors were Andover 2nds and were welcomed by a used, damp and green tinged Parley deck. Sam won the toss and elected to bat despite being very undecided. The decision looked flawed at 58 for 4 in the 19th over. By this time the opposition had been reduced to nine men as one had still to arrive and the opening bowler required A&E with a broken thumb attempting to field from his own delivery. However a positive approach led to a match winning stand of 111 between Shane Green (88) and Roshan Embalagama (49) which was broken in over 35. The last ten overs produced 67 runs for the loss of an additional 3 wickets to leave a final total of 236 for 8.
Miserly opening figures from Tom Blackley (7-1-9-1) and Ollie Green (6-0-13-0) eventually saw the opener dismissed on 27 from 14 overs. The innings remained subdued and ultimately ended after 36.3 overs with the score on 132. Alex Nippard with 3 for 26 and Jack Rowett with 3 for 39 were the main wicket takers.
Another maximum haul of 24 points and signs of a winning confidence.
3rd June - Next up was the destination of Dolmans Farm against an unbeaten Ferndown Wayfarers. Toss lost and asked to bat. A steady response with Mark Stutter first to fall for 35 with 82 runs on the board after 20 overs. Alex Nippard departed early before Sam Collins, playing a good patient innings of 94, avoided the double jug to leave the 40 over total at 183 for 3. Four further wickets fell in the chase for late runs, including Shane Green for 35. Two of those were lost in the final over but maximum batting points were achieved with a total of 226 for 7.
Ferndown Wayfarers began positively but had lost both openers for 40 by the tenth over. Some tight bowling and fielding then restricted the advance to another 51 runs before rain interrupted proceedings after over 27 at a score of 91 for 2. With 10 overs lost and umpires and scorers doing overtime a target score of 176 was calculated. This meant FW required 85 runs in 8 overs with 8 wickets in hand to win. First over after the resumption saw 15 runs scored. However the next 27 deliveries produced 8 wickets for the addition of only 20 runs. Ferndown Wayfarers all out for a total of 126. Ollie Green with 5 for 35 and Tom Blackley with 4 for 30 bowled well in tandem as FW tasted League defeat for the first time this season.
The game was played in a good spirit and comments from both sides afterwards reflected that. As well as a victory for Parley cricket as a sport was also the winner.
27th May - The decision of half of the regular first team to find alternative entertainment this Saturday allowed the introduction of a number of the younger generation to cricket at this level. U15 Connor Chubb notably the youngest of four aged 19 or less.
After being inserted EMWCC were 48 for 3 after 9 overs but the next partnership took them to 184. After 45 overs they closed on 257 for 6 which included 40 extras. There were 2 wickets each for Jack Nicholls, Tom Blackley and Jamie Hicks.
Captain Sam Collins opened with 43 runs, supported by Alex Cridland and Owen Morris with 24 runs each. Wickets fell at regular intervals and there was a late order response from Jack Nicholls 38 and Jamie Hicks 24. However a total of 227 all out in 44.2 overs was not good enough.
County One looks a distance away. If wanted it will only be realised with some serious cricket and commitment.
20th May - Game cancelled due to a plenitude of precipitation.
13th May - Visitors Old Basing included Shaun Udal, the ex-Hampshire and England player in their line-up. There were also HCL County 2 debuts for Shane Green and Harry Beardsley, following Mark Stutter's introduction to the Parley ranks last week. Which proved to be the inspiration to us as winning the toss and electing to bat produced a good and controlled performance? Totalling 249 for 7 in 45 overs the scoring was led by Alex Nippard with an excellent and positive innings of 125 runs in 129 deliveries, including 10 fours and 3 sixes. He was ably supported by skipper Sam Collins and Jack Rowett who both scored 35 runs.
Ollie Green set the tone with an LBW victim off the first ball of the visitors reply. The opposition recovered from 46 for 4 after 12 overs to finally achieve 198 all out in 43.5 overs. Wickets were shared about with Jack Nicholls taking 3 for 28, Ollie Green 2 for 18, Roshan Embalagama 2 for 20 and Tom Blackley 2 for 31.
The most unusual sight of the day was the umpire signalling a six following a shot by the captain. Later video analysis indicated a massive top edge to the pull by Sam Collins. This meant Sam had pulled twice within 24 hours! No video footage of the first event has yet come to light.
As well as the superb individual performance there were good signs of teamworking. Nice to get maximum points, something to build on, a happy bunch of campers and a few shots consumed in the bar after the victory.
6th May - A much anticipated first game in HCL County 2 produced a poor performance against a side who will be in the mix for top spot at the end of the season based on this game. In their warm up preparation and game performance the opposition showed what will be required to be at the forefront for promotion this year.
Overall the bowling was disappointing and 56 extras were conceded. Fielding standards will need to be dramatically improved, which is not an accusation generally linked to this side. Bedhampton scored 290 for the loss of 3 wickets in their 45 overs. This was on a good deck but a particularly uneven outfield.
The batting was marginally better although some may look back and have chosen an improved shot selection given the chance again. All out for 173 in 31.3 overs.
We were poor, we can do much better, we need to believe in our individual and team capabilities and we get the chance to demonstrate these next week. On Saturday 13 May we go again.
Ferndown Wayfarers began positively but had lost both openers for 40 by the tenth over. Some tight bowling and fielding then restricted the advance to another 51 runs before rain interrupted proceedings after over 27 at a score of 91 for 2. With 10 overs lost and umpires and scorers doing overtime a target score of 176 was calculated. This meant FW required 85 runs in 8 overs with 8 wickets in hand to win. First over after the resumption saw 15 runs scored. However the next 27 deliveries produced 8 wickets for the addition of only 20 runs. Ferndown Wayfarers all out for a total of 126. Ollie Green with 5 for 35 and Tom Blackley with 4 for 30 bowled well in tandem as FW tasted League defeat for the first time this season.
The game was played in a good spirit and comments from both sides afterwards reflected that. As well as a victory for Parley cricket as a sport was also the winner.
27th May - The decision of half of the regular first team to find alternative entertainment this Saturday allowed the introduction of a number of the younger generation to cricket at this level. U15 Connor Chubb notably the youngest of four aged 19 or less.
After being inserted EMWCC were 48 for 3 after 9 overs but the next partnership took them to 184. After 45 overs they closed on 257 for 6 which included 40 extras. There were 2 wickets each for Jack Nicholls, Tom Blackley and Jamie Hicks.
Captain Sam Collins opened with 43 runs, supported by Alex Cridland and Owen Morris with 24 runs each. Wickets fell at regular intervals and there was a late order response from Jack Nicholls 38 and Jamie Hicks 24. However a total of 227 all out in 44.2 overs was not good enough.
County One looks a distance away. If wanted it will only be realised with some serious cricket and commitment.
20th May - Game cancelled due to a plenitude of precipitation.
13th May - Visitors Old Basing included Shaun Udal, the ex-Hampshire and England player in their line-up. There were also HCL County 2 debuts for Shane Green and Harry Beardsley, following Mark Stutter's introduction to the Parley ranks last week. Which proved to be the inspiration to us as winning the toss and electing to bat produced a good and controlled performance? Totalling 249 for 7 in 45 overs the scoring was led by Alex Nippard with an excellent and positive innings of 125 runs in 129 deliveries, including 10 fours and 3 sixes. He was ably supported by skipper Sam Collins and Jack Rowett who both scored 35 runs.
Ollie Green set the tone with an LBW victim off the first ball of the visitors reply. The opposition recovered from 46 for 4 after 12 overs to finally achieve 198 all out in 43.5 overs. Wickets were shared about with Jack Nicholls taking 3 for 28, Ollie Green 2 for 18, Roshan Embalagama 2 for 20 and Tom Blackley 2 for 31.
The most unusual sight of the day was the umpire signalling a six following a shot by the captain. Later video analysis indicated a massive top edge to the pull by Sam Collins. This meant Sam had pulled twice within 24 hours! No video footage of the first event has yet come to light.
As well as the superb individual performance there were good signs of teamworking. Nice to get maximum points, something to build on, a happy bunch of campers and a few shots consumed in the bar after the victory.
6th May - A much anticipated first game in HCL County 2 produced a poor performance against a side who will be in the mix for top spot at the end of the season based on this game. In their warm up preparation and game performance the opposition showed what will be required to be at the forefront for promotion this year.
Overall the bowling was disappointing and 56 extras were conceded. Fielding standards will need to be dramatically improved, which is not an accusation generally linked to this side. Bedhampton scored 290 for the loss of 3 wickets in their 45 overs. This was on a good deck but a particularly uneven outfield.
The batting was marginally better although some may look back and have chosen an improved shot selection given the chance again. All out for 173 in 31.3 overs.
We were poor, we can do much better, we need to believe in our individual and team capabilities and we get the chance to demonstrate these next week. On Saturday 13 May we go again.