Rain greeted the 2’s home fixture versus Rettendon this weekend, but despite Taite declaring there was absolutely no chance of play, just an hour was lost as the game was shortened to 35 per side.
Things started well for the oak trees, debutant Matt McDonald claiming a debut wicket in with his fourth ball in oak tree white. Rettendon’s skipper Abrehart struck some big early blows, but was dropped early doors by the stiff looking Taite at point, which did nothing to stem the early flow of runs. Jonny Hewer brought a wicket through a good catch on the mid wicket boundary and the trundler, bowling in tandem with Shell head (Ollie Kendall), managed to regain some form of control for the next 12 overs. A partnership began to grow between Abrehart and Locke until they risked a quick single to Rob Hewer who threw down the stumps in a moment of pure genius/luck. Rettendon failed to kick on and when Abrehart was bowled by McDonald for a very well made 95, their innings ended on 195-4. Competitive, but gettable.
Totham’s innings started well with John Chadwick peppering the square leg boundary before being caught for a swift 29. Dicko continued finding the middle of the bat with some good drives until he too succumbed in the same way, caught at cover for 33, He would have had 70 if he ran singles. Stu joined Snail and steadied the ship, before yet another start was not converted and Snail was stumped off the bowling of Shah. Stu followed last weeks snorefest with some signs of form as he battled his way to a well played 40 and Joe came to the crease and upped the tempo immediately as the rain began to fall, pushing singles and punishing the bad ball to ease Totham nearer the winning total. Joe and Stu both departed, leaving Nob and Taite to finish the game with more than 3 overs to spare, Taite nearly dislocating both shoulders attempting to hit a 6 for the win for what would have secured us another batting point.
Great to get a win on board and even more pleasing to get a game in despite the weather.
Star Man:
Matt McDonald
