Michael Chetwode reports on a cricket week where in terms of results it was a disappointment but some good cricket was played in the four games
The week was not back-to-back matches as Eton were unable to raise a side on the first Sunday, we had a similar problem on the Friday, and the Frogs game on the second Sunday was called off as it clashed with our Cricketer Cup quarter final. All games were won by the chasing side which is not overly surprising bearing in mind the excellent wickets and dry, fast outfields.
The best game of the week was against Old Hurst Johnians which was won by six wickets by the visitors off the last ball. OCs had been reduced to 126 for 7 but a rearguard action led by Luca La Costa (62*) led us to a respectable 225 for 9 off 40 overs. An opening partnership of 92 from 14 overs gave Hurst a good start but Will Hamblin (3-42), still in the XI at school, and Tom Selby (1-45) brought a measure of control but Tunley Lowe (69*) saw the visitors home.
Abinger came on Tuesday and a declaration game ensued. We batted first making 172 with captain Rob Merry (33) top scoring. Abinger eased to a seven-wicket win with seven balls remaining of the last 20 overs. Opener Rumble remained not out on 84.
The visit of Lancing Roversgave us our only win of the week. A good opening partnership led to a competitive 259 for Lancing which was chased down by a strong OC side for the loss of six wickets. Archie Freeth (67), Brad Scriven (94) and brother Jack (50) saw us home with five overs to spare.
The final game of the week saw a strong Wimbledon side overpower a young OC XI. James Fortescue, fresh out of school, won the toss and batted and felt a score of 274 was an excellent total with La Costa (67) and Burke (64) being the main contributors. James’s confidence turned out to be misplaced as Wimbledon took 40 off the first two overs and ran out easy winners by five wickets with three overs to spare. Billy Sewell scoring 130 off only 97 balls.
Despite the results, an enjoyable week. Our thanks go to Sami for her catering, to Chris McDermott for his scoring and as always, the ground staff for their excellent pitch preparation. Final thanks to the match managers for all their diligence in getting eleven Cranleighans on a pitch at the same time.