Golden Oldies continued

Posted by Tony Hutton

The number of matches being played in this competition was a great temptation to ground-hoppers,like myself, to keep moving. However the best laid plans had to be amended due to the weather, as mentioned by Brian Sanderson at Pannal. I did call in their briefly in the morning and again later in the afternoon, but only saw a few balls bowled.

I started the day at Arthington who continued to receive all the press publicity due to the presence in their ranks of the redoubtable Dennis Nash, still opening the bowling regularly at the age of 74. A photographer from the Telegraph & Argos was present well before the start to take yet more pictures of Dennis in action. All this publicity not really appreciated by tea lady supreme, Mrs Nash, who did not like their ages being published in the press. Such is the price of fame !

However, Mrs Nash who is a Leeds City councillor, may also not have been too pleased with Arthington's captain for the day, former M.P. Nick Hawkings, from the opposite side of the political divide. Hevertheless all this was put aside when the coachload of New Zealanders, the Hawkes Bay Hobblers, eventually arrived for a twelve noon start.

They were given a hearty welcome by this very sociable club who play on to mid-October every year and whose evening league and friendly sides provide such a welcome haven for cricketers of all ages and all levels of ability. Enthusiasm alone is often the key.

Sadly the rain clouds were soon in evidence coming down the valley from Ilkley and eventually an early lunch was taken, with both teams and supporters boarding the vistitors' coach to take them to the nearby Wharfedale Hotel. Surprisingly the teams were eventually persuaded to leave the premises to continue a keenly contested match.

When I returned about five o'clock after a circular tour and more heavy rain at nearby Pannal, I was suprised to find it was dry in Arthington and an exciting finish building. Arthington had made a competitive total of 190 in their forty overs and the visitors were losing wickets, but sadly not to Dennis Nash who bowled his tidy eight over spell without success.

The tournament rule which insists that batsmen who pass 35 must retire came to the Kiwi's rescue, as when the tailenders were dismissed the better batsmen returned and promptly hit off the remaing runs with just two overs to spare at about 6.20 p.m.

So a long day for all concerned, but a most enjoyable occasion much appreciated by the visiting side and their supporters. What a great idea this tournament is and let us hope for fine weather for the rest of the week.