Report from Adam Triner
After playing at Oakley Park the previous week, the 3s had the pleasure of playing at Colden Common on their main ground.
Toss and Colden Common’s 9-Man Team
Although the conditions initially suggested it was a good day to bat first, Dan was unsure due to the grassy wicket, long boundary on one side, and a relatively short boundary with a slope on the other. In the end, Colden Common won the toss and elected to bat. This decision turned out to be the best option, especially since Dan learned shortly after that Colden Common only had 9 players available. Nevertheless, they were keen to ensure the match went ahead.
Bowling and Fielding
Oakley opened the bowling with the ever-reliable Dave and the young talent, Joby. The pair bowled excellently, and the pressure resulted in a tight single attempt to Harrison at square leg, leading to a run-out of Colden Common’s number 2 batsman for just 3 runs, thanks to Rutty’s quick reflexes behind the stumps.
This brought Colden Common’s skipper to the crease earlier than he would have liked. Joby had a strong opening spell before being rested, giving Harrison an opportunity to bowl his 4-over spell. Dave completed his 8 overs without taking a wicket, though he was deserving of one. He finished with figures of 0/20, including 2 maidens, ensuring that George Bird got a chance to bowl a few overs as well.
At this point, Colden Common had only lost one wicket, with their skipper playing solidly. Confident Jeff came on to bowl and eventually found the opener’s weakness, bowling him out for 16, which included a single boundary.
Dan ensured that both Alex and James had the chance to contribute with their leg spinners, with James picking up the only wicket between them. Joby and Harrison returned to bowl the final overs, with Joby finishing on 0/23 from 8 overs, including a maiden, and Harrison on 0/52 from 8 overs with 2 maidens.
Colden Common’s Skipper Keeps His Team in the Game
Despite being a man down, Colden Common’s skipper played a heroic innings, scoring an unbeaten 105*, which included 12 boundaries. His efforts helped his team post a competitive total of 192/3 from their 40 overs.
The Oaks Batting Chase
Chasing 192/3 seemed like a daunting task, but the 3s knew they had a chance if they could put together a solid performance. Dan and Jeff opened the batting and got off to a decent start before Jeff was caught at point with the score at 76/1 just before drinks. This brought Rutty to the crease. Although he looked promising with an early boundary, he was bowled for just 6 by a change bowler.
At 83/2, Dave joined Dan at the crease. Dan, well-set by now, provided stability while Dave took his time to settle in. As Dave grew more comfortable, Dan continued to show his form, reaching his 50. The partnership between Dan and Dave relieved the pressure, with both players demonstrating their experience in managing the chase. As a result, Dan inched closer to his second century of the season for the 3s.
Form is Temporary, Class is Permanent
Dan and Dave effectively reduced the required runs, with Dan reaching his second century of the season. Dave, who played a crucial supporting role, neared his half-century, which he deserved for his efforts. This strong partnership led Oakley 3s to victory by 8 wickets, with 6.1 overs remaining.
A Perfect Ending
In the end, cricket was the true winner, as both skippers scored impressive centuries that they can be proud of. The game was played in a great spirit, with many positives to take away for both teams.