posted by John Winn
'My bags are packed and I'm ready to go' but not on a jet plane, just by car to Headingley as I sit at home waiting for news of any possible play. It has been raining not heavily but steadily since before seven this morning in the Lower Ure valley and the latest tweet from Lisa Gallagher says the rain will die out this afternoon with a bit of brightness later. I was rather hoping for something a little more optimistic than that.
In an earlier blog ( May 7th) I mentioned the impact of the weather on the National KO Cup but assisted by a number of conceded games and at least one decided by toss of a coin, groups 1 and 2 which include teams representing the north east and Yorkshire have just about got back on track and there are three juicy matches scheduled for Sunday.
In Group 1 York entertain South Northumberland with the winners going through to face either Blaydon or Harrogate. In Group 2 Cuckney from Nottinghamshire, conquerors of Doncaster, await the winners of Hanging Heaton and Whitley Hall. So if you fancy seeing how Yorkshire teams fare against clubs from outside the area then Clifton Park or Bennett Lane offer a choice on Sunday at 1:00pm.
Thursday 31 May 2012
A LASTING LEGACY
By Brian Sanderson,
Yesterday I left Headingley at tea-time to go to The Galpharm Stadium to hear the launch of the Lottery funded project.It will celebrate and record the history and heritage of professional and amateur rugby league in Huddersfield.The 150th anniversary of the birth of the Huddersfield club in 2014 ,and the century of the club,s Team of all Talents,one of only three teams to win all four avaliable trophies in the same season -1914-15.The project will also mark the anniversary of the start of World War 1 and the impact on the people of Huddersfield.
The launch was headed by David Thorpe who is one of the.PC.W.It is a excellent project and it would be nice if Yorkshire cricket could do a similar project for their 150 th anniversary next year.
Yesterday I left Headingley at tea-time to go to The Galpharm Stadium to hear the launch of the Lottery funded project.It will celebrate and record the history and heritage of professional and amateur rugby league in Huddersfield.The 150th anniversary of the birth of the Huddersfield club in 2014 ,and the century of the club,s Team of all Talents,one of only three teams to win all four avaliable trophies in the same season -1914-15.The project will also mark the anniversary of the start of World War 1 and the impact on the people of Huddersfield.
The launch was headed by David Thorpe who is one of the.PC.W.It is a excellent project and it would be nice if Yorkshire cricket could do a similar project for their 150 th anniversary next year.
Wednesday 30 May 2012
Plan B pays off (for once)
Plan A this week was Riverside today, Headingley tomorrow, but looking at the forecasts for Yorkshire and Country Durham I decided that a reversal of that (aka Plan B) was the better option and so it was that I was at Headingley in good time this morning to learn that Northants had won the toss and would bat. Patterson , who six weeks ago was not considered worth his place was presented with his cap before the match and claimed two early victims to leave the visitors at 20 for 2 and in fairly short time this became 45 for 5 with a wicket for Sidebottom and two for Starc, who quickly put the nightmare of the Hove slope behind him. Gradually Northants recovered with stands of 76, 42 and 69 following, all of which had the common denominator of skipper Andrew Hall at the crease and when he was eighth out for 79 the total stood at 232.
There is always a danger that things can go haywire for the fielding side in these situation with the tail giving it the long handle and then the openers being dismissed before stumps. Quite the reverse however, David Willey, son of Peter, went for 39 at the same score his skipper and although the last pair added 21 most of the faithful, and there was good turn out today, would have settled for 252 all out. But perhaps not at 45 for 5.
Lyth and Root stood firm to the close and off five overs added 27 without being separated, leaving Yorkshire in a decent position. Alas the forecast does suggest that our run of ten or so days of high temperatures will come to an end tomorrow with rain forecast. Had I stuck to Plan A then I would have seen Durham's batting fail to get remotely near a batting point and then take 8 Lancashire wickets before the close, but a period of time was lost to rain in the afternoon while Headingley escaped except for ten miutes immediately after lunch when a certain hesitancy on the part of the umpires whether to resume gave opportunity for some to express their disapproval.
The forecast for Chester le Street suggests some thing close to a washout tomorrow and if I see any cricket it is likely to be at Headingley. Even here interruptions look more than likely. More depressing than tomorrow's weather however is how few championship cricket days will be left after the conclusion of this match. If you want further evidence of how quickly time flies Friday marks the tenth anniversary of the death of Hansie Cronje. No, I couldn't believe it either.
There is always a danger that things can go haywire for the fielding side in these situation with the tail giving it the long handle and then the openers being dismissed before stumps. Quite the reverse however, David Willey, son of Peter, went for 39 at the same score his skipper and although the last pair added 21 most of the faithful, and there was good turn out today, would have settled for 252 all out. But perhaps not at 45 for 5.
Lyth and Root stood firm to the close and off five overs added 27 without being separated, leaving Yorkshire in a decent position. Alas the forecast does suggest that our run of ten or so days of high temperatures will come to an end tomorrow with rain forecast. Had I stuck to Plan A then I would have seen Durham's batting fail to get remotely near a batting point and then take 8 Lancashire wickets before the close, but a period of time was lost to rain in the afternoon while Headingley escaped except for ten miutes immediately after lunch when a certain hesitancy on the part of the umpires whether to resume gave opportunity for some to express their disapproval.
The forecast for Chester le Street suggests some thing close to a washout tomorrow and if I see any cricket it is likely to be at Headingley. Even here interruptions look more than likely. More depressing than tomorrow's weather however is how few championship cricket days will be left after the conclusion of this match. If you want further evidence of how quickly time flies Friday marks the tenth anniversary of the death of Hansie Cronje. No, I couldn't believe it either.
Tuesday 29 May 2012
NEW EVENING LEAGUE
By Brian Sanderson,
After spending the morning watching the 20/20 at Bingley,I went with Ron Deaton to watch the Pickering Evening League.The League is not on the web and Ron found it when visiting Gillamore last Monday.
The first match we went to was Wombleton against Kirkbymoorside.The ground is a large area and flat.The home changing room is a pavilion that was built in 1935 whilst the opposition changed in a old caravan.
Wombleton fielded first and the Wicket-keeper and a fielder entered the field smoking.The fielder stopped the the first ball whilst still having the cigarette in his mouth.The wicket-keeper managed to still smoke until the second over.Kirkbymoorside seemed to have nine men.We left after ten over gone with three wickets down and the score 50.
Moving on to Harome who were playing Gillamore.The ground had a new pavilion with a bowls club next door.The field is small straight put wide at the side,The home side batted first and scored over 160 with the ball going into the wheatfield on numerous occasions.One batsman scored 81 not out.We left at 8,20 with still about twelve overs to bowl.
Arrived home twelve hours after leaving home and watching good rural cricket.It was worth it.
After spending the morning watching the 20/20 at Bingley,I went with Ron Deaton to watch the Pickering Evening League.The League is not on the web and Ron found it when visiting Gillamore last Monday.
The first match we went to was Wombleton against Kirkbymoorside.The ground is a large area and flat.The home changing room is a pavilion that was built in 1935 whilst the opposition changed in a old caravan.
Wombleton fielded first and the Wicket-keeper and a fielder entered the field smoking.The fielder stopped the the first ball whilst still having the cigarette in his mouth.The wicket-keeper managed to still smoke until the second over.Kirkbymoorside seemed to have nine men.We left after ten over gone with three wickets down and the score 50.
Moving on to Harome who were playing Gillamore.The ground had a new pavilion with a bowls club next door.The field is small straight put wide at the side,The home side batted first and scored over 160 with the ball going into the wheatfield on numerous occasions.One batsman scored 81 not out.We left at 8,20 with still about twelve overs to bowl.
Arrived home twelve hours after leaving home and watching good rural cricket.It was worth it.
Two defeats in a day.
posted by John Winn
To Bingley by train for a double header of 20/20 matches between Yorkshire II and England U19 in a competition that will see two more matches at Wagon Lane on Thursday when Derbyshire II will visit. In slightly cooler weather than has been the case for the last few days but still very pleasant for cricket watching, a decent crowd had assembled for the 11:30 start including some who had sworn never to go near this form of the game.They may have worn dark glasses but we know who they are, At least they were spared music, dancing girls, fireworks and Ravi Shastri.
Yorkshire batted first in the opening game but really never got to grips with the approach needed in this type of cricket and managed only 103 for 8 off their 20 overs. Top scorer was Lilley with 31 not out. Led by skipper Alex Davies from Lancashire who made 38 not out the Under 19s won at ease with 6 overs to spare, a situation that raised the question of how long we might have to wait for game two. Despite being told by the umpires that the interval would be 45 minutes an extra half hour was added and so play did not resume until 3:00pm.
Yorkshire batted first again but this time fared better. Rashid, who has been left out of Yorkshire's squad for tomorrow's championship match at Headingley, led the way and only a brilliant catch by Tom Rowe of Nottinghamshire intercepted the six that would have given Adil his 50. The innings closed on 141 for 8 and this time England were extended to the last ball of the nineteenth before Hutton hit the winning runs.
During the lunch interval the Yorkshire coach was seen offering some consolation to Rashid but one wonders if it can have come too much of a surprise to him that Rafiq has been preferred for in this last week the leg spinner has played for the second eleven in the SET and fielded sub at Hove in the televised game last Thursday when fortunately the second innings came after the watershed. To add to his success with the bat today he also picked up wickets which may be some, but probably not complete, consolation.
It is an intriguing fixture at HQ tomorrow, not least for the return of the very much in form James Middlebrook. Northants have made a decent start and are just six points behind Yorkshire having played a game more. With Derbyshire, assisted by another former Yorkshire spin bowler, setting a fast pace Yorkshire need a good points tally from this game.
To Bingley by train for a double header of 20/20 matches between Yorkshire II and England U19 in a competition that will see two more matches at Wagon Lane on Thursday when Derbyshire II will visit. In slightly cooler weather than has been the case for the last few days but still very pleasant for cricket watching, a decent crowd had assembled for the 11:30 start including some who had sworn never to go near this form of the game.They may have worn dark glasses but we know who they are, At least they were spared music, dancing girls, fireworks and Ravi Shastri.
Yorkshire batted first in the opening game but really never got to grips with the approach needed in this type of cricket and managed only 103 for 8 off their 20 overs. Top scorer was Lilley with 31 not out. Led by skipper Alex Davies from Lancashire who made 38 not out the Under 19s won at ease with 6 overs to spare, a situation that raised the question of how long we might have to wait for game two. Despite being told by the umpires that the interval would be 45 minutes an extra half hour was added and so play did not resume until 3:00pm.
Yorkshire batted first again but this time fared better. Rashid, who has been left out of Yorkshire's squad for tomorrow's championship match at Headingley, led the way and only a brilliant catch by Tom Rowe of Nottinghamshire intercepted the six that would have given Adil his 50. The innings closed on 141 for 8 and this time England were extended to the last ball of the nineteenth before Hutton hit the winning runs.
During the lunch interval the Yorkshire coach was seen offering some consolation to Rashid but one wonders if it can have come too much of a surprise to him that Rafiq has been preferred for in this last week the leg spinner has played for the second eleven in the SET and fielded sub at Hove in the televised game last Thursday when fortunately the second innings came after the watershed. To add to his success with the bat today he also picked up wickets which may be some, but probably not complete, consolation.
It is an intriguing fixture at HQ tomorrow, not least for the return of the very much in form James Middlebrook. Northants have made a decent start and are just six points behind Yorkshire having played a game more. With Derbyshire, assisted by another former Yorkshire spin bowler, setting a fast pace Yorkshire need a good points tally from this game.
Saturday 19 May
Denby Dale, Skelmanthorpe, Shelley, Kirkburton, Shepley
With the Professor!
A very good afternoon in the company of Professor Brendan Evans, our friend from the university.
He and my Dad get on very well - and we set off on a tour of Huddersfield grounds, ones Brendan didn't know.
It had been a rainy time so we weren't convinced there'd be play. This was the case at Denby Dale.
So we moved on to Skelmanthorpe, where play was just due to start after we arrived. I said hello to chairman Margaret Dollive and we had a cup of tea and a sit-down in front of the pavilion.
Next stop Shelley. A quick sit-down and play just seemed to be starting.
Then Kirkburton, where there was little doing, but a tea lady did offer to serve us with food.
Finally, Shepley where we had an excellent tea - hot food and three very willing tea ladies. Top stuff. Ian Watkinson - SCC secretary - was there and it was a good atmosphere in general.
Brendan certainly enjoyed his day.
Denby Dale, Skelmanthorpe, Shelley, Kirkburton, Shepley
With the Professor!
A very good afternoon in the company of Professor Brendan Evans, our friend from the university.
He and my Dad get on very well - and we set off on a tour of Huddersfield grounds, ones Brendan didn't know.
It had been a rainy time so we weren't convinced there'd be play. This was the case at Denby Dale.
So we moved on to Skelmanthorpe, where play was just due to start after we arrived. I said hello to chairman Margaret Dollive and we had a cup of tea and a sit-down in front of the pavilion.
Next stop Shelley. A quick sit-down and play just seemed to be starting.
Then Kirkburton, where there was little doing, but a tea lady did offer to serve us with food.
Finally, Shepley where we had an excellent tea - hot food and three very willing tea ladies. Top stuff. Ian Watkinson - SCC secretary - was there and it was a good atmosphere in general.
Brendan certainly enjoyed his day.
Thursday 17 May
Day 2, Headingley
Bumping into Folk
I had a very good night in the hotel and then a nice morning, reading and sorting out my room.
The staff in the hotel are very nice and they're always very helpful with queries.
But I had to get back to Huddersfield for early afternoon so I had to leave early, much to my disappointment.
Still time to bump into a few people, including book-dealer William Roberts and Calderdale friend Andrew Pearson.
I also saw Peter Dibb, veteran Huddersfield League cricketer, who I'm ghosting a book for.
It was a very pleasant morning - I was just gutted I had to get back home so early.
Had a few bags so got a taxi into the city centre and then a train home.
Day 2, Headingley
Bumping into Folk
I had a very good night in the hotel and then a nice morning, reading and sorting out my room.
The staff in the hotel are very nice and they're always very helpful with queries.
But I had to get back to Huddersfield for early afternoon so I had to leave early, much to my disappointment.
Still time to bump into a few people, including book-dealer William Roberts and Calderdale friend Andrew Pearson.
I also saw Peter Dibb, veteran Huddersfield League cricketer, who I'm ghosting a book for.
It was a very pleasant morning - I was just gutted I had to get back home so early.
Had a few bags so got a taxi into the city centre and then a train home.
Monday 28 May 2012
The only way is Essex
Towards teatime on Sunday I slipped over to Harrogate where Yorkshire Ladies were taking on their Essex counterparts. Somewhat to my shame I must admit this was the first time I have seen women's cricket other than on TV but with Harrogate now the HQ of Yorkshire women's cricket there is no excuse for not including it in my future cricket watching. This coming Sunday for example they entertain Somerset and on Monday Sussex come to town.
When I arrived Yorkshire were making good progress towards overhauling the Essex score of 230 with 130 for 3 on the board and Jessica Watson and Danielle Hazel in a fourth wicket stand that eventually took the score to 184 before Hazel was dismissed for 35 at which point panic set in and what had appeared to be comfortable victory was thrown away in a fusillade of rash strokes, skied catches, run outs, stumpings, three ducks and general disbelief amongst the Yorkshire supporters. 189 for 4 became 202 for 9 with Watson out for 91.
At the fall of the ninth wicket those who had been present during the Essex innings were inclined to think the game was over for Yorkshire's wicketkeeper Lauren Winfield had earlier sustained an injury to her arm which had necessitated a visit to Harrogate District and General and she was not expected to bat. Fear not, for in the manner of Colin Cowdrey Lauren strode to the crease and with the use of one hand, and amidst mounting excitement struck a boundary and a partnership with Laura Spragg brought the home side within 16 runs of their target before wicketkeeper Onojaife hung onto a skier to close an exciting game.
Today I have been close to cricket heaven for I have spent six hours at one of the most beautiful cricket locations, Ampleforth College, on a perfect English summer's day in the company of many similarly minded cricket loving friends including Tony and Diana Hutton, Brian Sanderson and David Thorpe.The focus of attention was the match between the Yorkshire and Northumberland Under 15 elevens. It would perhaps be uncharitable to say that the cricket did not quite match the setting but Yorkshire proved much too storng for their opponents whose batsmen could not cope with either the pace or spin of the home attack, but in the end, when shortly after half past five the last Northumbrian was dismissed and I drove home through an area which is truly of 'outstanding natural beauty' I was not worried about slow over rates, noisy fielders or any of the other irritants of contemporary cricket that the younger generation have adopted. I was just happy that I had spent a day in such surroundings and in temperatures so much in contrast with last Monday at Marske.
When I arrived Yorkshire were making good progress towards overhauling the Essex score of 230 with 130 for 3 on the board and Jessica Watson and Danielle Hazel in a fourth wicket stand that eventually took the score to 184 before Hazel was dismissed for 35 at which point panic set in and what had appeared to be comfortable victory was thrown away in a fusillade of rash strokes, skied catches, run outs, stumpings, three ducks and general disbelief amongst the Yorkshire supporters. 189 for 4 became 202 for 9 with Watson out for 91.
At the fall of the ninth wicket those who had been present during the Essex innings were inclined to think the game was over for Yorkshire's wicketkeeper Lauren Winfield had earlier sustained an injury to her arm which had necessitated a visit to Harrogate District and General and she was not expected to bat. Fear not, for in the manner of Colin Cowdrey Lauren strode to the crease and with the use of one hand, and amidst mounting excitement struck a boundary and a partnership with Laura Spragg brought the home side within 16 runs of their target before wicketkeeper Onojaife hung onto a skier to close an exciting game.
Today I have been close to cricket heaven for I have spent six hours at one of the most beautiful cricket locations, Ampleforth College, on a perfect English summer's day in the company of many similarly minded cricket loving friends including Tony and Diana Hutton, Brian Sanderson and David Thorpe.The focus of attention was the match between the Yorkshire and Northumberland Under 15 elevens. It would perhaps be uncharitable to say that the cricket did not quite match the setting but Yorkshire proved much too storng for their opponents whose batsmen could not cope with either the pace or spin of the home attack, but in the end, when shortly after half past five the last Northumbrian was dismissed and I drove home through an area which is truly of 'outstanding natural beauty' I was not worried about slow over rates, noisy fielders or any of the other irritants of contemporary cricket that the younger generation have adopted. I was just happy that I had spent a day in such surroundings and in temperatures so much in contrast with last Monday at Marske.
Sunday 27 May 2012
Wednesday 16 May
Headingley
Yorkshire v Hampshire
My second Headingley Lodge visit of the summer - I do LOVE the hotel.
I arrived in Leeds early and the hotel manageress allowed me to go to my room early, which was very good of her.
I had two film courses to attend that night - well, either Manchester or Sheffield - but I decided that discretion was the better part of valour and I stayed in my room.
This match was billed as the battle of the promotion hopefuls. Great weather but I'm not sure that either side will run away with the Second Division title.
Katich played really well for Hampshire and they reached 350-odd by the end of the day.
Headingley was looking a picture - just not enough people in attendance.
Saw William Roberts at his pavilion bookstall - and also Gerald from Gomersal (again - I see him almost every day I'm at cricket!).
Headingley
Yorkshire v Hampshire
My second Headingley Lodge visit of the summer - I do LOVE the hotel.
I arrived in Leeds early and the hotel manageress allowed me to go to my room early, which was very good of her.
I had two film courses to attend that night - well, either Manchester or Sheffield - but I decided that discretion was the better part of valour and I stayed in my room.
This match was billed as the battle of the promotion hopefuls. Great weather but I'm not sure that either side will run away with the Second Division title.
Katich played really well for Hampshire and they reached 350-odd by the end of the day.
Headingley was looking a picture - just not enough people in attendance.
Saw William Roberts at his pavilion bookstall - and also Gerald from Gomersal (again - I see him almost every day I'm at cricket!).
Sunday 13 May
Durham School
A blank cricketing day, or so I thought...
I went to church with Shaun - twice - and then had a magnificent meal produced by his wife Jane. In between, Shaun suggested we check out a cricket ground we had spotted the day before, out on one of the roads leading into Durham.
It turned out to be Durham School's cricket ground and the game going on was an intra-school match, between two houses.
All very nice and there was even a Costa cafe open for business and a refreshments stall.
A very nice spectacle and plenty of spectators - mums, dads etc - in attendance.
The playing area was surrounded by greenery and a main road.
Shaun seemed to get lost early on, after he had dropped me on his way to parking, but eventually emerged onto the boundary's edge.
This could be my first public school cricket visit - and I'm now determined to do more.
Durham School
A blank cricketing day, or so I thought...
I went to church with Shaun - twice - and then had a magnificent meal produced by his wife Jane. In between, Shaun suggested we check out a cricket ground we had spotted the day before, out on one of the roads leading into Durham.
It turned out to be Durham School's cricket ground and the game going on was an intra-school match, between two houses.
All very nice and there was even a Costa cafe open for business and a refreshments stall.
A very nice spectacle and plenty of spectators - mums, dads etc - in attendance.
The playing area was surrounded by greenery and a main road.
Shaun seemed to get lost early on, after he had dropped me on his way to parking, but eventually emerged onto the boundary's edge.
This could be my first public school cricket visit - and I'm now determined to do more.
FIRST DAY FOR THE ELECTRIC SCOREBOARD
By Brian Sanderson,
On another beautiful day I set off with Bob Procter to Heslingden who were playing Lowerhouse in the Fosters Lancashire League.The ground is situated near Accrington on the junction of the A56 and B6527. However the minor road is not marked but I remember it from the first time I visited about three years ago with Peter Mann.
As I parked the car in the ground the new scoreboard was on the left. It seems it was the first match it had been used as there has been no electricity in the score box until recently.It is a large ground but short boundaries stright..There is a nice cricket cafe serving pies but we had just a cup of tea.Heslington batted first against the Lowerhouse pro Francois Haasbroek who is a South African medium bowler.Lower house had won the League for the first time last season. I saw their final match at Todmorden when they won the match with the help of a injured Haasbroek..
Heslingden soon lost their first wicket and the Heslingden pro came in at three. This was Harry Kenneth Perrott Boam who was born in Birmingham but plays his cricket for Wellington. Last year he played for Settle and he is twenty years old.However he was brillant caught and bowled for not many runs.It was up to Mohsin Imtiaz to bring the score up to181 .
After tea Boam started a fouteen over spell which put Lowerhouse behind the run rate and lost four wickets.However Haasbroek came in at five and at the end of Boam spell and started to score runs.As we left they required about 80 runs in 20 overs with the pro batting well.Looking at the excellent Lancashire League web -site Lowerhouse won by three wickets.
On the way back there had been a crash on the M62 which was causing choas because of the Rugby traffic.You never now what you may meet when driving.Tea was late and the blog.
On another beautiful day I set off with Bob Procter to Heslingden who were playing Lowerhouse in the Fosters Lancashire League.The ground is situated near Accrington on the junction of the A56 and B6527. However the minor road is not marked but I remember it from the first time I visited about three years ago with Peter Mann.
As I parked the car in the ground the new scoreboard was on the left. It seems it was the first match it had been used as there has been no electricity in the score box until recently.It is a large ground but short boundaries stright..There is a nice cricket cafe serving pies but we had just a cup of tea.Heslington batted first against the Lowerhouse pro Francois Haasbroek who is a South African medium bowler.Lower house had won the League for the first time last season. I saw their final match at Todmorden when they won the match with the help of a injured Haasbroek..
Heslingden soon lost their first wicket and the Heslingden pro came in at three. This was Harry Kenneth Perrott Boam who was born in Birmingham but plays his cricket for Wellington. Last year he played for Settle and he is twenty years old.However he was brillant caught and bowled for not many runs.It was up to Mohsin Imtiaz to bring the score up to181 .
After tea Boam started a fouteen over spell which put Lowerhouse behind the run rate and lost four wickets.However Haasbroek came in at five and at the end of Boam spell and started to score runs.As we left they required about 80 runs in 20 overs with the pro batting well.Looking at the excellent Lancashire League web -site Lowerhouse won by three wickets.
On the way back there had been a crash on the M62 which was causing choas because of the Rugby traffic.You never now what you may meet when driving.Tea was late and the blog.
Scaling the heights of HD8 (and 9)
For the first time this season I planned a Saturday of league cricket ground visits and with the fine weather continuing for the I fulfilled a promise I made to myself when considering the season's journeys, namely an excursion to see some Huddersfield Cricket League games, a first for me.
A fifty minute drive from the flatlands of the Vale of York brought me to post code HD8 9PP, the home of Clayton West, promoted to the Premiership this season and still seeking their first win. At an altitude of 322 feet the Back Lane ground is amongst the lowest in the league and is tucked away surrounded by houses and an equestrian centre. Their opponents were Marsden also without a victory in the 2012 campaign and the visitors took first knock on what I was told by a home supporter was a batsman's paradise. The ground is small, with short boundaries, particularly behind the wicket, and helped by a number of edges Marsden got off to a flying start and were 42 for 1 off 6 overs. These runs were recorded on a traditional scoreboard where the scorers operated 'the tins' by leaning out of the box to alter the total, wickets and overs.I made enquiries before play started as to the possibility of acquiring a league handbook but my spirits fell when I was told there were some 'behind the bar', that Bermuda Triangle of handbooks, and so it proved, there were none.
Remaining within HD8 I next climbed some 300 feet to the Lidgett Lane ground of Skelmanthorpe, where I did acquire a handbook (they are in a cupboard in the kitchen)and even if you do not require a handbook, the kitchen is a must and immediately made me regret that I had had a filling lunch. Pork pies, rhubarb crumble and chocolate cake knocked my tuna sandwich into a cocked hat but I contented myself with a cup of tea.
On walking round the ground I got chatting to a most remarkable man, retired miner Denis Kaye, remarkable in that from his home in Barnsley he has walked to all the grounds in the Huddersfield League, a distance of over 1900 miles.He completed the feat a few years ago when he walked the 28 miles from his home In Kexborough to Micklehurst which has an Oldham postcode and who left the league last year.If I felt in anyway sceptical about the truth of his claims these were quickly dispelled by a press cutting which he pulled from his wallet. An essentially modest (and slim) man 77 year old Denis pointed out that he lived on the Huddersfield side of Barnsley and that he always got a lift home. Cheating really.
The Skelmanthorpe ground is splendidly appointed and on such a lovely day a good sized crowd had gathered to watch Delph and Dobcross ( one of Denis' longer walks) batting and I was impressed by the home team's keen fielding and athleticism, must be the rhubarb crumble. 90 for 4 when I left D and D rallied to 249 for 9 but lost by five wickets. From here I crossed the postcode boundary into HD9 and Riley Lane, the home of Kirkburton who were entertaining near neighbours Shelley. My arrival here precipitated a collapse of the visitors' lower order and in a short time they went from 117 for 6 to 139 all out. One Shelley player took it upon himself to give one of the umpires some advice ( the nature of which I could only assume related to some LBW decisions): the umpire's riposte was to suggest that he(the complainant) might like to try standing himself.
I had hoped to bump into club stalwart Andy Crookes who I had met at The Pennine Conference in March but although the excellent match programme showed that Andrew and Karen Crookes were the match ball sponsors I did not see him.If you are still a follower of the blog Andy, sorry I missed you. Kirkburton won the match by 3 wickets and with Golcar losing Kirkburton go top of the premiership
For my fourth and last venue of the afternoon I made another short jouirney, this time to Lepton where the Highlanders, a cricket team not a regiment, were playing in yet another local derby against Emley Clarence, a cricket team not a Hollywood matinee idol. Here an entertaining last wicket stand for the home team was being warmly encouraged by some Huddersfield Town supporters who were on short term leave from the club house while their blue and white favourites were taking respite from the heat of Wembley and sucking a lemon or whatever footballers do at half time these days.
I found this stand entertaining, the Terriers' fans found it hilarious. It proved to be crucial fot it carried Lepton to 219 and Emley fell just 11 short of this total.
Four new grounds behind me I returned home just in time to see the penalty shootout at Wembley. When the unfortunate Blades' keeper missed the crucial kick I swear I could hear the Highlanders celebrating
A fifty minute drive from the flatlands of the Vale of York brought me to post code HD8 9PP, the home of Clayton West, promoted to the Premiership this season and still seeking their first win. At an altitude of 322 feet the Back Lane ground is amongst the lowest in the league and is tucked away surrounded by houses and an equestrian centre. Their opponents were Marsden also without a victory in the 2012 campaign and the visitors took first knock on what I was told by a home supporter was a batsman's paradise. The ground is small, with short boundaries, particularly behind the wicket, and helped by a number of edges Marsden got off to a flying start and were 42 for 1 off 6 overs. These runs were recorded on a traditional scoreboard where the scorers operated 'the tins' by leaning out of the box to alter the total, wickets and overs.I made enquiries before play started as to the possibility of acquiring a league handbook but my spirits fell when I was told there were some 'behind the bar', that Bermuda Triangle of handbooks, and so it proved, there were none.
Remaining within HD8 I next climbed some 300 feet to the Lidgett Lane ground of Skelmanthorpe, where I did acquire a handbook (they are in a cupboard in the kitchen)and even if you do not require a handbook, the kitchen is a must and immediately made me regret that I had had a filling lunch. Pork pies, rhubarb crumble and chocolate cake knocked my tuna sandwich into a cocked hat but I contented myself with a cup of tea.
On walking round the ground I got chatting to a most remarkable man, retired miner Denis Kaye, remarkable in that from his home in Barnsley he has walked to all the grounds in the Huddersfield League, a distance of over 1900 miles.He completed the feat a few years ago when he walked the 28 miles from his home In Kexborough to Micklehurst which has an Oldham postcode and who left the league last year.If I felt in anyway sceptical about the truth of his claims these were quickly dispelled by a press cutting which he pulled from his wallet. An essentially modest (and slim) man 77 year old Denis pointed out that he lived on the Huddersfield side of Barnsley and that he always got a lift home. Cheating really.
The Skelmanthorpe ground is splendidly appointed and on such a lovely day a good sized crowd had gathered to watch Delph and Dobcross ( one of Denis' longer walks) batting and I was impressed by the home team's keen fielding and athleticism, must be the rhubarb crumble. 90 for 4 when I left D and D rallied to 249 for 9 but lost by five wickets. From here I crossed the postcode boundary into HD9 and Riley Lane, the home of Kirkburton who were entertaining near neighbours Shelley. My arrival here precipitated a collapse of the visitors' lower order and in a short time they went from 117 for 6 to 139 all out. One Shelley player took it upon himself to give one of the umpires some advice ( the nature of which I could only assume related to some LBW decisions): the umpire's riposte was to suggest that he(the complainant) might like to try standing himself.
I had hoped to bump into club stalwart Andy Crookes who I had met at The Pennine Conference in March but although the excellent match programme showed that Andrew and Karen Crookes were the match ball sponsors I did not see him.If you are still a follower of the blog Andy, sorry I missed you. Kirkburton won the match by 3 wickets and with Golcar losing Kirkburton go top of the premiership
For my fourth and last venue of the afternoon I made another short jouirney, this time to Lepton where the Highlanders, a cricket team not a regiment, were playing in yet another local derby against Emley Clarence, a cricket team not a Hollywood matinee idol. Here an entertaining last wicket stand for the home team was being warmly encouraged by some Huddersfield Town supporters who were on short term leave from the club house while their blue and white favourites were taking respite from the heat of Wembley and sucking a lemon or whatever footballers do at half time these days.
I found this stand entertaining, the Terriers' fans found it hilarious. It proved to be crucial fot it carried Lepton to 219 and Emley fell just 11 short of this total.
Four new grounds behind me I returned home just in time to see the penalty shootout at Wembley. When the unfortunate Blades' keeper missed the crucial kick I swear I could hear the Highlanders celebrating
BECAUSE THEIR YOUNG
By Brian Sanderson,
Orginally I was going to the Eskdale League with Ron Deaton and Nigal Pullen but I had to decline.
I n the afternoon I called up Pudsey St. Lawrence Ground to see them play Hanging Heaton in the Bradford League.
I first played cricket on this ground nearly forty years ago.The pitch has not changed but there is now a new electric scoreboard and the pavilion has been improved.The sun was shining so I went to the shade watching Pudsey bat.Mark Robertshaw .the Pudsey captain ,and Adam Waite open the innings.Waite was soon out caught by Ismail Darwood who started his cricketeing career at the Yorkshire Academy and moved on to a few Counties.One of the opening bowlers was David Stiff who also played for the Academy before moving on.His father and wife was watching him play.Another bowler was Nick Bresnan who is the brother of Yorkshire and England Tim.
However the bowling could not stop Pudsey scoring quickly on ground which had two small boundarys.Robertson reached 100 in 139 balls and James Smith smashed 84.James also played for the Academy and now also now plays for Cumberland.At tea-time they had reached 312 for 4 and should be a winning score.
Looking at the excellent Bradford Cricket League web-site Hanging Heaton had scored 296 for9 in the 50 overs.Bresnan had scored 71 not out and had put on 93 in nine overs.James Smith breaking the partnership.
In the evening I went to York to see Duane Eddy play his guitar.Excellent concert.The first record I bought at Lewis,s in Leeds was Because their Young by Duane over fifty years ago. Memories.
Orginally I was going to the Eskdale League with Ron Deaton and Nigal Pullen but I had to decline.
I n the afternoon I called up Pudsey St. Lawrence Ground to see them play Hanging Heaton in the Bradford League.
I first played cricket on this ground nearly forty years ago.The pitch has not changed but there is now a new electric scoreboard and the pavilion has been improved.The sun was shining so I went to the shade watching Pudsey bat.Mark Robertshaw .the Pudsey captain ,and Adam Waite open the innings.Waite was soon out caught by Ismail Darwood who started his cricketeing career at the Yorkshire Academy and moved on to a few Counties.One of the opening bowlers was David Stiff who also played for the Academy before moving on.His father and wife was watching him play.Another bowler was Nick Bresnan who is the brother of Yorkshire and England Tim.
However the bowling could not stop Pudsey scoring quickly on ground which had two small boundarys.Robertson reached 100 in 139 balls and James Smith smashed 84.James also played for the Academy and now also now plays for Cumberland.At tea-time they had reached 312 for 4 and should be a winning score.
Looking at the excellent Bradford Cricket League web-site Hanging Heaton had scored 296 for9 in the 50 overs.Bresnan had scored 71 not out and had put on 93 in nine overs.James Smith breaking the partnership.
In the evening I went to York to see Duane Eddy play his guitar.Excellent concert.The first record I bought at Lewis,s in Leeds was Because their Young by Duane over fifty years ago. Memories.
Thursday 24 May 2012
FIRST SEASON MEETING OF THE P.C.W
By Brian Sanderson,
After shopping I popped up to Weetwood to see Leeds and Bradford University against the Yorkshire Academy in a fifty over match.As I arrived Leeds were batting and were 160 for 1 with about twenty over to go.The sun was very hot so I moved to the shade watching from a distance but cooler.
After my lunch Tony Hutton arrived back from his lunch and John Winn and Brian Senior were already watching.The Leeds side was their second team which included Charlie Roebuck.He is a Huddersfield bioy who was released by Yorkshire Academy. He went up to Durham and now at the University.
Leeds scored 260 however there were no scorecards so I could not be certain of the players.Yorkshire included Barnie Gibson , William Rhodes and a fouteen year old leg-spinner.
After a pint in the Stables to celebrate Tony,s birthday we meet Mick Bourne for the first time this season.It turn out he had not been well so it was nice for everybody in theP.C.W to meet and talk.Mick was in good form and entertained us royally.Good to have Mick back.
Beenwhile the only Yorshire batsman to get runs was William Rhodes from Hull who scored 70 out of 160. Another Yorshire defeat.Another person who joined us was Dave Hodgson who is the Kirkstall Educational President. I would recommand reading his web-site which is in Kirstall Eductional web-site.Hope the weather stays fine and we can have more meetings of the club during the season.
After shopping I popped up to Weetwood to see Leeds and Bradford University against the Yorkshire Academy in a fifty over match.As I arrived Leeds were batting and were 160 for 1 with about twenty over to go.The sun was very hot so I moved to the shade watching from a distance but cooler.
After my lunch Tony Hutton arrived back from his lunch and John Winn and Brian Senior were already watching.The Leeds side was their second team which included Charlie Roebuck.He is a Huddersfield bioy who was released by Yorkshire Academy. He went up to Durham and now at the University.
Leeds scored 260 however there were no scorecards so I could not be certain of the players.Yorkshire included Barnie Gibson , William Rhodes and a fouteen year old leg-spinner.
After a pint in the Stables to celebrate Tony,s birthday we meet Mick Bourne for the first time this season.It turn out he had not been well so it was nice for everybody in theP.C.W to meet and talk.Mick was in good form and entertained us royally.Good to have Mick back.
Beenwhile the only Yorshire batsman to get runs was William Rhodes from Hull who scored 70 out of 160. Another Yorshire defeat.Another person who joined us was Dave Hodgson who is the Kirkstall Educational President. I would recommand reading his web-site which is in Kirstall Eductional web-site.Hope the weather stays fine and we can have more meetings of the club during the season.
IN THE PRESENCE OF GENIUS
By Brian Sanderson,
Yesterday I returned to York to the second day of the Seconds match.While I was drinking my morning coffee I was joined by Tony Hutton and John Rix.I sat in the shade of the score-box and had a excellent view of the wickets falling.At the start of the day Yorkshire were two wicket down. Nearly thirty overs later they were all out.Only Eddy Wilson, who was watched by his Grandfather Ray Wilson, and Dan Hodgson shown any idea how to bat. While the innnigs was collapsing I was able to talk to Brian Cobb the poor state of cricket at Bowling Old Lane.
Yorkshire were all out just before 1.00 and the discussion in the scoreboard was wether there soon be another over before lunch and the umpires decided yes.After lunch more wickets started to fall and I left at 3.30 when Yorkshire were 5 for 63 and prospects of lossing by innings. This would be a disappoint for the spectator and the York club who would lose out off another days takings.
In the evening Ron Deaton kindly took me down to Sheffield to hear Sir Gary Sobers talk about his career.At 21 against Pakistan he broke Len Hutton,s Test match record with 365 not out.To me he is one of my favorite cricketers and was a genius on the cricket field.Brillant evening contrasting to Yorkshire losing in two days to Durham.
Yesterday I returned to York to the second day of the Seconds match.While I was drinking my morning coffee I was joined by Tony Hutton and John Rix.I sat in the shade of the score-box and had a excellent view of the wickets falling.At the start of the day Yorkshire were two wicket down. Nearly thirty overs later they were all out.Only Eddy Wilson, who was watched by his Grandfather Ray Wilson, and Dan Hodgson shown any idea how to bat. While the innnigs was collapsing I was able to talk to Brian Cobb the poor state of cricket at Bowling Old Lane.
Yorkshire were all out just before 1.00 and the discussion in the scoreboard was wether there soon be another over before lunch and the umpires decided yes.After lunch more wickets started to fall and I left at 3.30 when Yorkshire were 5 for 63 and prospects of lossing by innings. This would be a disappoint for the spectator and the York club who would lose out off another days takings.
In the evening Ron Deaton kindly took me down to Sheffield to hear Sir Gary Sobers talk about his career.At 21 against Pakistan he broke Len Hutton,s Test match record with 365 not out.To me he is one of my favorite cricketers and was a genius on the cricket field.Brillant evening contrasting to Yorkshire losing in two days to Durham.
Prince takes the crown.
Another Wednesday, another 'listed match' and another train journey, but this time in the sure and certain knowledge that a lovely day was in prospect; the 8:40 from York bore me to Liverpool and when I walked into the ground shortly after Lancashire had won the toss and decided to bat a very reasonable crowd was already gathered. Despite the increased opportunities afforded by the developments at Old Trafford this was my first visit to Aigbuth for two years. Lancashire are playing four championship matches here this season and the current encounter with Middlesex is the third of these. I spent the day in the company of several locals who have joined Liverpool CC for the season at a fee of £50 and although some time in the first two games was lost to weather with a concessionary charge of £12 for a day's play they will almost certainly be in profit, especially as the beer in the members' pavilion is 50p a pint cheaper than at the public bar. Yesterday's sunshine seemed to inspire one gentleman in particular to make inroads into any outstanding deficit.
Horton and Moore opened for Lancashire and made slow but generally unruffled progress against Murtagh and Collymore but a foolish run out separated the pair on 36, Brown followed second ball and when Moore was unlucky to be caught at long leg by Eoin Morgan, unlucky in the sense that Morgan (who believes there is too much county cricket) was playing only his second championship game since 2009. Now at 55 for 3 a bit more of the gloss of Lancashire's 2011 championship had been worn away and some supporters were predicting a repetition of the batting form that has seen them pass two hundred only once at Aigbuth this season.
By mid afternoon Prince and Croft had done much to dispel this feeling of gloom, for although progress,not helped by a slowish outfield, stubbornly remained below three an over there was a solidarity about the batting and before tea the pair brought up their century partnership. The lunch and tea intervals gave me the chance to walk round the ground and I recognised pcws from both sides of the Pennines, including some 'Jim the Dog' luncheon club devotees.
The partnership was finally broken when Croft was caught behind from Murtagh's first delivery with the second new ball but Procter assisted Prince through to the close at 276 off the daily ration of 96 overs, still a little below three an over.Prince will resume on 121 this morning and with more good weather forecast Lancashire will be hopeful of more batting points. But there again my prediction that Yorkshire II would enjoy a profitable day's batting at York yesterday were far off the mark and instead they lost 18 wickets in the day to leave my plans to return to Clifton Park today in disarray.
I left just after 5:30 to catch the 6:22 back to York but during an enjoyable day I learned a useful wrinkle for those traveliing by train to Liverpool to watch cricket: that is to book to Liverpool Parkway South rather than Lime Street and catch the 82 bus which runs frequently and stops at the ground. Had I done this yesterday I think I would have been in the ground for the start of play and been able to stay a little longer and yet been home at the same time.
In terms of my 'listed matches' seeing Lancashire play Middlesex for the first time in the championship leaves the score at 130 down, 23 to go. The early season rush is over and my next opportunity does not arise until August when Leicestershire entertain Hampshire.
Horton and Moore opened for Lancashire and made slow but generally unruffled progress against Murtagh and Collymore but a foolish run out separated the pair on 36, Brown followed second ball and when Moore was unlucky to be caught at long leg by Eoin Morgan, unlucky in the sense that Morgan (who believes there is too much county cricket) was playing only his second championship game since 2009. Now at 55 for 3 a bit more of the gloss of Lancashire's 2011 championship had been worn away and some supporters were predicting a repetition of the batting form that has seen them pass two hundred only once at Aigbuth this season.
By mid afternoon Prince and Croft had done much to dispel this feeling of gloom, for although progress,not helped by a slowish outfield, stubbornly remained below three an over there was a solidarity about the batting and before tea the pair brought up their century partnership. The lunch and tea intervals gave me the chance to walk round the ground and I recognised pcws from both sides of the Pennines, including some 'Jim the Dog' luncheon club devotees.
The partnership was finally broken when Croft was caught behind from Murtagh's first delivery with the second new ball but Procter assisted Prince through to the close at 276 off the daily ration of 96 overs, still a little below three an over.Prince will resume on 121 this morning and with more good weather forecast Lancashire will be hopeful of more batting points. But there again my prediction that Yorkshire II would enjoy a profitable day's batting at York yesterday were far off the mark and instead they lost 18 wickets in the day to leave my plans to return to Clifton Park today in disarray.
I left just after 5:30 to catch the 6:22 back to York but during an enjoyable day I learned a useful wrinkle for those traveliing by train to Liverpool to watch cricket: that is to book to Liverpool Parkway South rather than Lime Street and catch the 82 bus which runs frequently and stops at the ground. Had I done this yesterday I think I would have been in the ground for the start of play and been able to stay a little longer and yet been home at the same time.
In terms of my 'listed matches' seeing Lancashire play Middlesex for the first time in the championship leaves the score at 130 down, 23 to go. The early season rush is over and my next opportunity does not arise until August when Leicestershire entertain Hampshire.
Tuesday 22 May 2012
Weather sunny : pitch hard
posted by John Winn
The title of this posting is taken directly from the scorers' description of the conditions for the Second Eleven Championship match which began at Clifton Park, York today. What a contrast with the cold of Marske yesterday and the sodden pitches that caused many local league games to be abandoned as recently as Saturday.
Both sides showed changes from yesterday; no Claydon for Durham no Rashid or Ashraf for Yorkshire.
Durham batted first and soon lost Raine but that was the last wicket to fall during a very good morning session for the visitors in which Jennings and Muchall took the score to 161 at close to five an over. Yorkshire gradually regained some measure of control in the afternoon mainly due to an excellent spell by Randhawa who took the next three wickets to fall. They did not include Jennings however who when Durham declared at 424 for 6 had an undefeated 207 to his name. He was assisted in an unbroken seventh wicket partnership by Wood whose 73 not out was scored off 70 balls and included nine fours and one six. In terms of economy Pyrah was the pick of the Yorkshire bowlers, in terms of wickets, Randhawa.
After a day's 'leather hunting', not helped by some poor ground fielding at times, Yorkshire were left to negotiate a tricky thirteen overs and lost Lees for 0 and Leaning for 7 by the close and are still 385 in deficit.With another good day forecast for tomorrow there is an opportunity for the Yorkshire side to make up for the many days lost to rain and on a good true wicket and with a fast outfield they need not feel too daunted by Durham's total.
This is Durham's first visit to Clifton Park in SEC cricket and on such a lovely day it was not surprising that there was a good crowd , very much in shirt sleeve order. An added attraction for the several pcws present was a match on the adjacent and very attractive Clifton Alliance ground where Northumberland and Durham over 60s were taking on their Yorkshire counterparts. As Brian Sanderson remarked 'not many threes would be run'.
The title of this posting is taken directly from the scorers' description of the conditions for the Second Eleven Championship match which began at Clifton Park, York today. What a contrast with the cold of Marske yesterday and the sodden pitches that caused many local league games to be abandoned as recently as Saturday.
Both sides showed changes from yesterday; no Claydon for Durham no Rashid or Ashraf for Yorkshire.
Durham batted first and soon lost Raine but that was the last wicket to fall during a very good morning session for the visitors in which Jennings and Muchall took the score to 161 at close to five an over. Yorkshire gradually regained some measure of control in the afternoon mainly due to an excellent spell by Randhawa who took the next three wickets to fall. They did not include Jennings however who when Durham declared at 424 for 6 had an undefeated 207 to his name. He was assisted in an unbroken seventh wicket partnership by Wood whose 73 not out was scored off 70 balls and included nine fours and one six. In terms of economy Pyrah was the pick of the Yorkshire bowlers, in terms of wickets, Randhawa.
After a day's 'leather hunting', not helped by some poor ground fielding at times, Yorkshire were left to negotiate a tricky thirteen overs and lost Lees for 0 and Leaning for 7 by the close and are still 385 in deficit.With another good day forecast for tomorrow there is an opportunity for the Yorkshire side to make up for the many days lost to rain and on a good true wicket and with a fast outfield they need not feel too daunted by Durham's total.
This is Durham's first visit to Clifton Park in SEC cricket and on such a lovely day it was not surprising that there was a good crowd , very much in shirt sleeve order. An added attraction for the several pcws present was a match on the adjacent and very attractive Clifton Alliance ground where Northumberland and Durham over 60s were taking on their Yorkshire counterparts. As Brian Sanderson remarked 'not many threes would be run'.
ON THE SEVENTH DAY
By Brian Sanderson,
As forecasted the sun was shinning as I set off with Ron Stansfield and Audrey Woodhouse to York. The match was the first day of the Yorkshire Seconds against Durham.The first person I meet was Ian from Lancaster who had been at Workington yesterday watching Cumberland one day match which they won. There next match is Cornwall away.Some trip for a one day match.Also at that match was Tony Hutton who was taking two day holiday in The Lake District.
Durham won the toss and decided to bat.The openers being Benjamin Alexander Raine from Sunderland and Keaton Kent Jennings from Johanannesberg.Raine was first out l.b.w to Pyrah who is proving his fitness after his broken hand.Then was joined by Paul Muchill who was the Durham captain.Walking round the ground I met John Winn who had been to Maske yesterday which had been cloudy contrasting with to-day.There is building work been done at the present time to build a new member section.At the moment it is a month behind but should be a excellent addition to the York ground.Further round I met David Thorpe who had been watching Golcar during the weekend.
At lunch the batsmen had put on a stand of over 120.At the Clifton Alliance ground ,next door to the York ground,the Yorkshire over 60.s were playing Durham and Northumberland over 60.s..I like the Clifton ground because of the old pavilion and the neat condition of the ground.
After lunch we were joined by Bob Procter to watch Jennings get a double century. York is always a good batting ground and he made the most of it against some poor bowling. I thought Hannon-Dalby was unlucy as a number of catches were dropped of his bowling.
At tea -time the Durham over 60,s had scored 145 in forty-five overs,In the main match Randhawa took three of the six wickets fallen but for 116 runs. Durham declared at 424 for 6 at about 5,30.We left at six and Lees was out l,b,w to Runel Marlon Ricardo Brathwaite born in Barbados.
To -day was the first day of summer and may it long last.
As forecasted the sun was shinning as I set off with Ron Stansfield and Audrey Woodhouse to York. The match was the first day of the Yorkshire Seconds against Durham.The first person I meet was Ian from Lancaster who had been at Workington yesterday watching Cumberland one day match which they won. There next match is Cornwall away.Some trip for a one day match.Also at that match was Tony Hutton who was taking two day holiday in The Lake District.
Durham won the toss and decided to bat.The openers being Benjamin Alexander Raine from Sunderland and Keaton Kent Jennings from Johanannesberg.Raine was first out l.b.w to Pyrah who is proving his fitness after his broken hand.Then was joined by Paul Muchill who was the Durham captain.Walking round the ground I met John Winn who had been to Maske yesterday which had been cloudy contrasting with to-day.There is building work been done at the present time to build a new member section.At the moment it is a month behind but should be a excellent addition to the York ground.Further round I met David Thorpe who had been watching Golcar during the weekend.
At lunch the batsmen had put on a stand of over 120.At the Clifton Alliance ground ,next door to the York ground,the Yorkshire over 60.s were playing Durham and Northumberland over 60.s..I like the Clifton ground because of the old pavilion and the neat condition of the ground.
After lunch we were joined by Bob Procter to watch Jennings get a double century. York is always a good batting ground and he made the most of it against some poor bowling. I thought Hannon-Dalby was unlucy as a number of catches were dropped of his bowling.
At tea -time the Durham over 60,s had scored 145 in forty-five overs,In the main match Randhawa took three of the six wickets fallen but for 116 runs. Durham declared at 424 for 6 at about 5,30.We left at six and Lees was out l,b,w to Runel Marlon Ricardo Brathwaite born in Barbados.
To -day was the first day of summer and may it long last.
Monday 21 May 2012
Better luck this year
Last year Yorkshire's second team game at Marske was abandoned after eight overs when the umpires deemed the pitch was too dangerous. Having checked before I left that play was in progress, by the time I reached this north eastern corner of North Yorkshire the field was empty and the bar full. All of which made me more determined that I would make the trip again today to see Yorkshire entertain Durham in a Second Eleven Championship game but before setting off I made two phone calls and checked the website the results of which enabled me to drive up the A19 feeling reasonably confident that I would see some cricket.
When I was a child Redcar was a place one went too on day excursions like the Sunday school outing, and if one fancied slightly more rarefied air Saltburn's Edwardian charms further down the line were the answer. Marske was a station between the two resorts where people rarely got on or off, certainly not if they were carrying buckets and spades. Driving through it today en route for Windy Hill Lane it is obvious that there has ben a lot of fairly recent development and the cricket club seems very much part of this growing community
The concession admission was 50p and a souvenir programme and scorecard were available at £2 and a good read this was, detailing all Yorkshire's previous visits.The game was only four overs old when I arrived but Durham had already lost one wicket and barely had I taken my seat than skipper Muchall was out caught and bowled by Ashraf. Muchall, along with Claydon had been in the Durham eleven at The Oval yesterday and presumably neither will be appearing at Taunton tomorrow in the Championship game.
Muchall's dismissal brought in Richardson and with opener Jennings he added 149 for the third wicket.When Jennings was out Pringle joined Richardson and they took the score to 252 for 3 after the allotted forty overs with some spectacular hitting especially by Pringle who helped himself to 43 off just 18 balls including three sixes. The three wickets were shared evenly between Hannon-Dalby, Ashraf and Pyrah, with Hannon-Dalby the meanest of the three.
Despite a cold, overcast day a goodly crowd had assembled and very reasonably priced refreshments were available throughout the day. I recognised a few of the spectators, several of whom had made the journey from West and South Yorkshire. When Yorkshire began their reply Durham opened the bowling with Claydon and Brathwaite, both whom were in Durham's championship side at The Riverside two weeks ago.
Yorkshire were never quite up with the run rate and despite the top six all getting a start they were all out in the fortieth over still 21 short of the target. The teams move down to York tomorrow and as I drove home the sun appeared somewhere between Northallerton and Thirsk and I think those planning a day at Clifton Park for the first day of the three day game can confidently expect summer weather at last.
When I was a child Redcar was a place one went too on day excursions like the Sunday school outing, and if one fancied slightly more rarefied air Saltburn's Edwardian charms further down the line were the answer. Marske was a station between the two resorts where people rarely got on or off, certainly not if they were carrying buckets and spades. Driving through it today en route for Windy Hill Lane it is obvious that there has ben a lot of fairly recent development and the cricket club seems very much part of this growing community
The concession admission was 50p and a souvenir programme and scorecard were available at £2 and a good read this was, detailing all Yorkshire's previous visits.The game was only four overs old when I arrived but Durham had already lost one wicket and barely had I taken my seat than skipper Muchall was out caught and bowled by Ashraf. Muchall, along with Claydon had been in the Durham eleven at The Oval yesterday and presumably neither will be appearing at Taunton tomorrow in the Championship game.
Muchall's dismissal brought in Richardson and with opener Jennings he added 149 for the third wicket.When Jennings was out Pringle joined Richardson and they took the score to 252 for 3 after the allotted forty overs with some spectacular hitting especially by Pringle who helped himself to 43 off just 18 balls including three sixes. The three wickets were shared evenly between Hannon-Dalby, Ashraf and Pyrah, with Hannon-Dalby the meanest of the three.
Despite a cold, overcast day a goodly crowd had assembled and very reasonably priced refreshments were available throughout the day. I recognised a few of the spectators, several of whom had made the journey from West and South Yorkshire. When Yorkshire began their reply Durham opened the bowling with Claydon and Brathwaite, both whom were in Durham's championship side at The Riverside two weeks ago.
Yorkshire were never quite up with the run rate and despite the top six all getting a start they were all out in the fortieth over still 21 short of the target. The teams move down to York tomorrow and as I drove home the sun appeared somewhere between Northallerton and Thirsk and I think those planning a day at Clifton Park for the first day of the three day game can confidently expect summer weather at last.
UNEXPECTED MATCH
By Brian Sanderson,
On Sunday I had decided not to go to Maske to see Yorkshire secords due to the rain and cold breeze.As I was leaving Headingley on Sunday night Malcom from Colton mentioned that there was a match at Weetwood on Monday.
As I arrived at Weetwood about 12.30 I found Lancashire seconds were playing a Leeds and Bradford University side. There was no scorecard but I recogniseed Andrea Peter Agathangelou batting and I found later his partner was Andrew Luke Davies. All the records were in the Second Team Annual.
The firstperson to meet me was John Taplin who wanted to now were I had been on Saturday. Malcolm arrived, then Brian Senior and last by Jerry.Lancashire started quickly. The Leeds captain was Luis Reece who had played for the Unicorns yesterday.The weather was cloundy and the aircrafts landing at the airport just came out of the clounds over the ground.One of the bowler was Andrew Craig Williamson who bowled left-arm spin.He also plays for Derbyshire seconds and took some wickets today.
We were kept informed about the Test Match from Malcolm,s radio .Cook must have been upset being out with two runs wanting to win the match.Pity Johny Bairstow did not get the winning runs.
We moved to watch the match on the pavilion veranda away from the wind.Everybody thought it was a forty over match but were wrong as it turned into a 50 over match.The Lancashire coaches shouted out in 45 over that there should have been the final powerplay. They were an over wrong.The match started at 12.00 and the final over was bowled at 3.45. Avery slow over rate and the mach would not finish until about 7.30. I left at the interval with Lancashire scoring 261.My next mach would be Rugby League to-night behind the cricket ground.
On Sunday I had decided not to go to Maske to see Yorkshire secords due to the rain and cold breeze.As I was leaving Headingley on Sunday night Malcom from Colton mentioned that there was a match at Weetwood on Monday.
As I arrived at Weetwood about 12.30 I found Lancashire seconds were playing a Leeds and Bradford University side. There was no scorecard but I recogniseed Andrea Peter Agathangelou batting and I found later his partner was Andrew Luke Davies. All the records were in the Second Team Annual.
The firstperson to meet me was John Taplin who wanted to now were I had been on Saturday. Malcolm arrived, then Brian Senior and last by Jerry.Lancashire started quickly. The Leeds captain was Luis Reece who had played for the Unicorns yesterday.The weather was cloundy and the aircrafts landing at the airport just came out of the clounds over the ground.One of the bowler was Andrew Craig Williamson who bowled left-arm spin.He also plays for Derbyshire seconds and took some wickets today.
We were kept informed about the Test Match from Malcolm,s radio .Cook must have been upset being out with two runs wanting to win the match.Pity Johny Bairstow did not get the winning runs.
We moved to watch the match on the pavilion veranda away from the wind.Everybody thought it was a forty over match but were wrong as it turned into a 50 over match.The Lancashire coaches shouted out in 45 over that there should have been the final powerplay. They were an over wrong.The match started at 12.00 and the final over was bowled at 3.45. Avery slow over rate and the mach would not finish until about 7.30. I left at the interval with Lancashire scoring 261.My next mach would be Rugby League to-night behind the cricket ground.
Sunday 20 May 2012
Saturday 12 May
Chester-le-Street
Sunshine at Last!
A fine sunny day - quite a departure!
Shaun kindly gave me a lift into the ground and I found a perch in front of the pavilion. Had a drink and settled down to some sunshine - at last.
Somerset finished their innings off - then Durham set about some damage-limitation.
It was a lovely Saturday and I enjoyed sitting, thinking and relaxing.
Had an omelette for lunch in the very nice bar, then took a trip to the book sale taking place in the club offices. Needless to say, spent lots of money!
Then back to my perch in front of the pavilion, with Durham - batting - trying to get back into the game.
A lovely day - very relaxing.
Noticed yesterday that Chester-le-Street CC play very close to the Riverside so I got a taxi there for the back end of the afternoon. But the rain over the previous few days had done its damage and the game was off.
Gutted! But I took some photos and had a drink.
Then back to Shaun and Jane's and a meal out at a lovely local pub.
Chester-le-Street
Sunshine at Last!
A fine sunny day - quite a departure!
Shaun kindly gave me a lift into the ground and I found a perch in front of the pavilion. Had a drink and settled down to some sunshine - at last.
Somerset finished their innings off - then Durham set about some damage-limitation.
It was a lovely Saturday and I enjoyed sitting, thinking and relaxing.
Had an omelette for lunch in the very nice bar, then took a trip to the book sale taking place in the club offices. Needless to say, spent lots of money!
Then back to my perch in front of the pavilion, with Durham - batting - trying to get back into the game.
A lovely day - very relaxing.
Noticed yesterday that Chester-le-Street CC play very close to the Riverside so I got a taxi there for the back end of the afternoon. But the rain over the previous few days had done its damage and the game was off.
Gutted! But I took some photos and had a drink.
Then back to Shaun and Jane's and a meal out at a lovely local pub.
Friday 11 May
Chester-le-Street
More Rain!
A trip up north to visit my good friends Shaun and Jane Swithenbank. Shaun is a Methodist minister in Durham and they have a lovely house close to Durham town centre.
So I used it as a very good excuse to watch some cricket at the Riverside - one of my favourite grounds.
Had to delay my train trip up north because a workman was visiting, but thereafter everything ran smoothly. Arrived in Chester-le-Street in mid-afternoon but Durham was still feeling the after-effects of the rain and there had been no play when I arrived.
So I had a cup of tea in the attractive cafe/bar and a read of my books. Then popped into the club shop. Picked up a 2012 DCCC yearbook but was very disappointed to discover that they 'didn't sell' books - just wall-to-wall sports clothing.
Had another sit-down and then got a taxi back to the train station.
Met up with Shaun and Jane - so good to see them.
They had to go out so I had a good rest and prepared myself for Day 2 of the Somerset match.
Chester-le-Street
More Rain!
A trip up north to visit my good friends Shaun and Jane Swithenbank. Shaun is a Methodist minister in Durham and they have a lovely house close to Durham town centre.
So I used it as a very good excuse to watch some cricket at the Riverside - one of my favourite grounds.
Had to delay my train trip up north because a workman was visiting, but thereafter everything ran smoothly. Arrived in Chester-le-Street in mid-afternoon but Durham was still feeling the after-effects of the rain and there had been no play when I arrived.
So I had a cup of tea in the attractive cafe/bar and a read of my books. Then popped into the club shop. Picked up a 2012 DCCC yearbook but was very disappointed to discover that they 'didn't sell' books - just wall-to-wall sports clothing.
Had another sit-down and then got a taxi back to the train station.
Met up with Shaun and Jane - so good to see them.
They had to go out so I had a good rest and prepared myself for Day 2 of the Somerset match.
BALLANCE BRILLIANCE
By Brian Sanderson,
On a cloudy morning I walked up to Headingley to watch Yorkshire play Derbyshire in a 40 overs match.It would be the first match for Mitchell Aaron Stac , the Australian left arm fast bowler who had been turn back at British Emigatrion so missing two matches. His number is 56 which in the bus number which passes Headingley ground.
Yorkshire won the toss and fielded.I watched the match from the Long Room with Ron Deaton and Bob Procter.The opening pair for Derbyshire were Martin Guptill and Chesney Hughes.Guptill is a New Zealander who has played 19 Test Matches and 60 one day matches so was very experenced.His partner was born in Anguilla and I first saw at Darlington in the second team. They put on a opening partnership of 137 until Ashraf bowled Hughes and this was in the 25 th over. At this stage it looked lie they would score 240 but as soon as Guptill was out they only managed to get 219 for 8.Stac being the best bowler with 3 for 28.The feeling at half-time that Yorkshire did well to restrict Derbyshire and should get the total.
Lyth and Gale opened the batting and kept up with the run-rate until both were out. Gale been bowled running down the wicket.There was a time when they needed to score at about 7 an over. Jaques got himself out for 47 and at this time David Wainwright bowled very tidily.It was left to Ballance to win the match which he did with a excellent innings hitting a number of balls over the boundary.He finished up on 77 not out.The Derbyshire bowling was ordinary with peoplev like Park and Redfern bowling who are part time bowlers.
A good victory with people before the match wandering why Sidebottom and Patterson were rested.
On a cloudy morning I walked up to Headingley to watch Yorkshire play Derbyshire in a 40 overs match.It would be the first match for Mitchell Aaron Stac , the Australian left arm fast bowler who had been turn back at British Emigatrion so missing two matches. His number is 56 which in the bus number which passes Headingley ground.
Yorkshire won the toss and fielded.I watched the match from the Long Room with Ron Deaton and Bob Procter.The opening pair for Derbyshire were Martin Guptill and Chesney Hughes.Guptill is a New Zealander who has played 19 Test Matches and 60 one day matches so was very experenced.His partner was born in Anguilla and I first saw at Darlington in the second team. They put on a opening partnership of 137 until Ashraf bowled Hughes and this was in the 25 th over. At this stage it looked lie they would score 240 but as soon as Guptill was out they only managed to get 219 for 8.Stac being the best bowler with 3 for 28.The feeling at half-time that Yorkshire did well to restrict Derbyshire and should get the total.
Lyth and Gale opened the batting and kept up with the run-rate until both were out. Gale been bowled running down the wicket.There was a time when they needed to score at about 7 an over. Jaques got himself out for 47 and at this time David Wainwright bowled very tidily.It was left to Ballance to win the match which he did with a excellent innings hitting a number of balls over the boundary.He finished up on 77 not out.The Derbyshire bowling was ordinary with peoplev like Park and Redfern bowling who are part time bowlers.
A good victory with people before the match wandering why Sidebottom and Patterson were rested.
Staying close to home
posted by John Winn
Another day of cloudy skies, drizzle and single figure temperatures, Celsius that is but it might just have well as been Farenheit, persuaded me that even my plan to seesome Wetherby League cricket (the same plan as I had had on the first Saturday of the league season), might be foolhardy so I paid my first visit of the season to my local club, Ouseburn CC for their local derby match with their opponents from 'over the water' (the River Ure), Alne CC.
I arrived to see captains, umpires and groundsman all pondering the wicket in the way that suggested some were keener than others that play should commence. After a while they returned to the pavilion to announce they would wait an hour and look again. With not a glimmer of sunshine and little in the way of a drying wind it seemed unlikely that the delay would make much difference but when the cabal reconvened after more deliberation it was decided that a thirty over game could be played with a three thirty start.
Despite the early loss of Sam Dale, Ouseburn's second wicket pair of Pete Townsend and Sam Parker soon had the score rattling along and on several occasions the ball had to be retrieved from the nearby field of rape.The partnership was worth 117 when Townsend was out for 55 but Parker continued the fast scoring until he fell for 91. He was followed by his brother Tom who went to the other extreme and was bowled first ball.
Nevertheless a score of 177 for 4 at the conclusion of the 30 overs looked more than useful and so it proved with Alne falling 38 short and losing six wickets. Three of these went to Sam Dale offering consolation for his low score with the bat. So a first win and 5 points for Ouseburn: next week they travel to Blubberhouses, who had a convincing win over Goldsborough yesterday, a win that will keep them near the top of the table, possibly even top depending on other results yesterday.
Another day of cloudy skies, drizzle and single figure temperatures, Celsius that is but it might just have well as been Farenheit, persuaded me that even my plan to seesome Wetherby League cricket (the same plan as I had had on the first Saturday of the league season), might be foolhardy so I paid my first visit of the season to my local club, Ouseburn CC for their local derby match with their opponents from 'over the water' (the River Ure), Alne CC.
I arrived to see captains, umpires and groundsman all pondering the wicket in the way that suggested some were keener than others that play should commence. After a while they returned to the pavilion to announce they would wait an hour and look again. With not a glimmer of sunshine and little in the way of a drying wind it seemed unlikely that the delay would make much difference but when the cabal reconvened after more deliberation it was decided that a thirty over game could be played with a three thirty start.
Despite the early loss of Sam Dale, Ouseburn's second wicket pair of Pete Townsend and Sam Parker soon had the score rattling along and on several occasions the ball had to be retrieved from the nearby field of rape.The partnership was worth 117 when Townsend was out for 55 but Parker continued the fast scoring until he fell for 91. He was followed by his brother Tom who went to the other extreme and was bowled first ball.
Nevertheless a score of 177 for 4 at the conclusion of the 30 overs looked more than useful and so it proved with Alne falling 38 short and losing six wickets. Three of these went to Sam Dale offering consolation for his low score with the bat. So a first win and 5 points for Ouseburn: next week they travel to Blubberhouses, who had a convincing win over Goldsborough yesterday, a win that will keep them near the top of the table, possibly even top depending on other results yesterday.
Saturday 19 May 2012
TRIP ROUND YORK
By Brian Sanderson,
Woke up to drizzle and decisions had to be made were myself and Ron Deaton would watch cricket.
After a number of telephone conversations we decded on York area.We did visit a number of clubs in the York and District League last year.
The first match was Askham Bryan and Selby which is in division two of the York Vale League.
The pich is in the middle of a Agricultureal College on the outskirt of York.The changing room were at the back of The Conference centre.There were grey clouds and a cold Easterly breeze blowing.There was four spectators watching the match ourslves and a couple from Selby who decided to watch the match outside.They could not find any spots away from the wind.I would have to watch it from the car.
Second match was Copmanthorpe against Bishopthorpe which was in the First Division.The ground is in the middle of a housing estate next to the main railway line from York to London.There must have been six trains going pass as we walked round the ground.There is a Communty Hall for the changing rooms and it had coloured lights round the windows.It looked like Christmas.
Next match was Dringhouses against Whitkirk in the York and District League.The League is celebrating their centenary and have a cabinet of cricket memorbila in the Long Room at Headingley.Again the ground was next to the main railway line.The pavilion was opened by Vic Wilson ex Yorkshire captain in the 1960,s..The pitch was dry and the groundsman said it was a batting track.
Fourth match was Ovington 11 against Goole Town in the fourth division.the pitch is on the Knavesmere in the York race course.Again the pitch was dry after the night rain and there was a nice pavilion but a distance from the pitch.
Moving on to Fulfordgate against Thorp Willoughby in the second division.The pitch is near to Andy,s house who would be watching Yorkshire.The pitch was used by York City football team in the 1920,s.It is a community pitch with the dressing rooms in the Hall. We obtained a nice cup of tea.
We went passed the University of York staff ground but nobody was playing as they had dropped out of the League.Also Huntington are struggling to rise a team.
The last club we watched in the York Vale League was Stockton and Hopgrove against North Cave.
On entering the ground we were met by Hall with small windows and a long distance from the pitch.
It is a large flat ground with no features and electric pylons crossing the ground.We moved on quickly.
The last match was Kirk Deighton against Old Modernians in the Wetherby League.A excellent ground to visit with plenty of seats and nice pavilion.Contrast to Stockton.
Excellent day when in the morning we wondered if we would see any cricket. A lot a Nidderdale League matches were off due to the rain.To-morrow I am going to watch Derbyshire at Headingley and specially David Wainwright.
Woke up to drizzle and decisions had to be made were myself and Ron Deaton would watch cricket.
After a number of telephone conversations we decded on York area.We did visit a number of clubs in the York and District League last year.
The first match was Askham Bryan and Selby which is in division two of the York Vale League.
The pich is in the middle of a Agricultureal College on the outskirt of York.The changing room were at the back of The Conference centre.There were grey clouds and a cold Easterly breeze blowing.There was four spectators watching the match ourslves and a couple from Selby who decided to watch the match outside.They could not find any spots away from the wind.I would have to watch it from the car.
Second match was Copmanthorpe against Bishopthorpe which was in the First Division.The ground is in the middle of a housing estate next to the main railway line from York to London.There must have been six trains going pass as we walked round the ground.There is a Communty Hall for the changing rooms and it had coloured lights round the windows.It looked like Christmas.
Next match was Dringhouses against Whitkirk in the York and District League.The League is celebrating their centenary and have a cabinet of cricket memorbila in the Long Room at Headingley.Again the ground was next to the main railway line.The pavilion was opened by Vic Wilson ex Yorkshire captain in the 1960,s..The pitch was dry and the groundsman said it was a batting track.
Fourth match was Ovington 11 against Goole Town in the fourth division.the pitch is on the Knavesmere in the York race course.Again the pitch was dry after the night rain and there was a nice pavilion but a distance from the pitch.
Moving on to Fulfordgate against Thorp Willoughby in the second division.The pitch is near to Andy,s house who would be watching Yorkshire.The pitch was used by York City football team in the 1920,s.It is a community pitch with the dressing rooms in the Hall. We obtained a nice cup of tea.
We went passed the University of York staff ground but nobody was playing as they had dropped out of the League.Also Huntington are struggling to rise a team.
The last club we watched in the York Vale League was Stockton and Hopgrove against North Cave.
On entering the ground we were met by Hall with small windows and a long distance from the pitch.
It is a large flat ground with no features and electric pylons crossing the ground.We moved on quickly.
The last match was Kirk Deighton against Old Modernians in the Wetherby League.A excellent ground to visit with plenty of seats and nice pavilion.Contrast to Stockton.
Excellent day when in the morning we wondered if we would see any cricket. A lot a Nidderdale League matches were off due to the rain.To-morrow I am going to watch Derbyshire at Headingley and specially David Wainwright.
INTERESTING AFTERNOON AT HEADINGLEY
By Brian Sanderson,
Sorry about the delay of Friday blog as my computor had to go in for a service and I picked up on Saturday.
After obtaining Phil Jaques signature on two old scorecards when he scored centuries, I setting down to watch him bat from the Long Room.There was another strong cold breeze blowing.The first objective was to beat the follow on figure of 278.Jaques and Ballance batted well until Ballance decided to get out to Ervine for 76 still 81 runs to go.Then Jaques and Brophy got out to Dawson and Rashid was bowled by Biscombe. Still 41 runs required. Mc Grath and Sidebottom saw the follow on figure beaten.
The next objective was 350 to obtain another batting point.This was achieved with an over to spare and Hampshire was deprived a bowling point. Hampshire got the nineth wicket in the first ball of the 111 over.
Third objective was for McGrath to reach his 34 th century and this was acheived due to Katich dropping a catch in the slips.Well done Anthony and he helped Yorkshire to get to 399 still 28 runs behind.
The match is heading for a draw so I will be going to see League cricket on Saturday.
Sorry about the delay of Friday blog as my computor had to go in for a service and I picked up on Saturday.
After obtaining Phil Jaques signature on two old scorecards when he scored centuries, I setting down to watch him bat from the Long Room.There was another strong cold breeze blowing.The first objective was to beat the follow on figure of 278.Jaques and Ballance batted well until Ballance decided to get out to Ervine for 76 still 81 runs to go.Then Jaques and Brophy got out to Dawson and Rashid was bowled by Biscombe. Still 41 runs required. Mc Grath and Sidebottom saw the follow on figure beaten.
The next objective was 350 to obtain another batting point.This was achieved with an over to spare and Hampshire was deprived a bowling point. Hampshire got the nineth wicket in the first ball of the 111 over.
Third objective was for McGrath to reach his 34 th century and this was acheived due to Katich dropping a catch in the slips.Well done Anthony and he helped Yorkshire to get to 399 still 28 runs behind.
The match is heading for a draw so I will be going to see League cricket on Saturday.
Friday 18 May 2012
Maybe, just maybe.
A frustrating morning at Headingley yesterday when light rain and drizzle prevented any play until 2:30 and when it did start Hampshire added another 75 to their overnight score for the loss of their last five wickets. Three of these went to Rashid, but he could not be said to have bowled well. Bates got his first century in first class cricket and Katich fell just a boundary short of a double hundred as the visitors took maximum batting points. Two dropped catches denied Yorkshire the third bowling point and the Hampshire innings lasted a further nine overs before they were all out at which point tea was taken.
Lyth began Yorkshire's reply with a beautifully timed offside four but, still in the first over, he 'shouldered arms' and was lbw. Jacques joined Root but batting against the new ball and in poorish light was a much more difficult proposition than before tea and when the latter was out for 8 he had faced 44 deliveries. 32 for 2 became 32 for 3 when skipper Gale was run out and the 277 needed to avoid the follow on seemed a long way off. Good work from Jacques and Ballance, however, added 68 before the close of play.
The delay in the start of the day's play did at least afford an opportunity to chat with a number of friends, some of whom I had not seen since the last championship match at Headingley in April. The pcws amongst them all had tales to tell about days lost to the weather or where cricket had been possible, close to freezing temperatures. One topic of conversation was the new weekly 'The Cricket Paper' which had been published on Wednesday but was proving rather difficult to find on the newagents' shelves. I did, however pick up a copy in my local supermarket today and at £1:50 (£1:00 on subscription) it seems like a good read, with 8 of its 44 pages devoted to league cricket.
I also bought The Ripon Gazette to catch up on league cricket in my area with its coverage of The Nidderdale,Wetherby and York Senior Leagues. Top of the first of these sit Spofforth who transferred from The Wetherby in 2011 and whilst serving their apprenticeship were comfortable winners of the second division last season. It is not much of a surprise that they are the early pace setters in 2012 with Bishop Thornton in close contention.Last year's champions and my local team, Ouseburn CC are finding life tough at the moment and are without a victory at this early stage. The Wetherby League is headed by Barwick in Elmet and Great Preston. Clifton Alliance are the early leaders in the York League in its centenary year.
Looking ahead, this coming week sees an opportunity to see Durham II and Yorkshire II in opposing action. Firstly on Monday in the SET at Marske by the Sea and then on Tuesday the two teams move on to Clifton Park in York for a three day SEC game. The forecast suggests that by Tuesday we might finally see some warmer weather, let's hope so, for spectating at the York ground can be a very enjoyable experience when the sun shines.Maybe, just maybe.
Lyth began Yorkshire's reply with a beautifully timed offside four but, still in the first over, he 'shouldered arms' and was lbw. Jacques joined Root but batting against the new ball and in poorish light was a much more difficult proposition than before tea and when the latter was out for 8 he had faced 44 deliveries. 32 for 2 became 32 for 3 when skipper Gale was run out and the 277 needed to avoid the follow on seemed a long way off. Good work from Jacques and Ballance, however, added 68 before the close of play.
The delay in the start of the day's play did at least afford an opportunity to chat with a number of friends, some of whom I had not seen since the last championship match at Headingley in April. The pcws amongst them all had tales to tell about days lost to the weather or where cricket had been possible, close to freezing temperatures. One topic of conversation was the new weekly 'The Cricket Paper' which had been published on Wednesday but was proving rather difficult to find on the newagents' shelves. I did, however pick up a copy in my local supermarket today and at £1:50 (£1:00 on subscription) it seems like a good read, with 8 of its 44 pages devoted to league cricket.
I also bought The Ripon Gazette to catch up on league cricket in my area with its coverage of The Nidderdale,Wetherby and York Senior Leagues. Top of the first of these sit Spofforth who transferred from The Wetherby in 2011 and whilst serving their apprenticeship were comfortable winners of the second division last season. It is not much of a surprise that they are the early pace setters in 2012 with Bishop Thornton in close contention.Last year's champions and my local team, Ouseburn CC are finding life tough at the moment and are without a victory at this early stage. The Wetherby League is headed by Barwick in Elmet and Great Preston. Clifton Alliance are the early leaders in the York League in its centenary year.
Looking ahead, this coming week sees an opportunity to see Durham II and Yorkshire II in opposing action. Firstly on Monday in the SET at Marske by the Sea and then on Tuesday the two teams move on to Clifton Park in York for a three day SEC game. The forecast suggests that by Tuesday we might finally see some warmer weather, let's hope so, for spectating at the York ground can be a very enjoyable experience when the sun shines.Maybe, just maybe.
Thursday 17 May 2012
Somerset run riot at no charge
posted by John Winn
Another one of my listed matches and another early start saw me at The Oval gates shortly after play had started in the match between Surrey and Somerset yesterday. This time the sun was shining and the prospects for a full day's play were good. Already in cheerful spirits after a comfortable and hassle free journey down I began to feel it might be my day when a Surrey member gave me a complimentary ticket just as I was about to hand over my £10 note for the one price fits all admission. Expressing my thanks and retrousering the tenner I entered the ground to find that there was a beer festival already in progress: definitely my day!
Somerset had won the toss and Suppiah and Barrow were already making good progress against the hosts who had left Ramprakash out of the eleven after his pair at New Road last week. Barrow, who almost single handed had come close to giving Somerset an unlikely victory at The Riverside on Sunday, dominated the opening stand and when he was caught in the gully for 47 a gentleman behind me who appeared to have made a good start on working his way through the fifty or so ales on offer at the beer festival, broke into a chorus of Molly Malone* (answers at the foot of the page). The wicket was placed towards the gasholder side which made my usual perch in the Bedser stand less attractive so I settled for a seat a few rows in front of the singer, who was already predicting a 'run riot'.
Suppiah was joined by Compton, whose name did not appear on the card, perhaps somebody had anticipated he might be at Lord's, and they were not parted until after lunch when Suppiah was run out for an excellent 106. Last week I saw him dismissed first ball at The Riverside and before yesterday the last four times I had seen him bat he had not reached double figures. Acting captain Hildreth was quickly into his stride and the Surrey attack was made to look very ordinary as runs came throughout the afternoon at close to five an over. Meaker looked the best of the pace quartet bowling with plenty of aggression, but their figures in this morning's paper show that between them the four took 2 for 315. What restraint there was came from Batty and De Bruyn.
Compton, who I would guess has spent more time at the crease this season than anybody else, was lbw in the last over before tea and Hildreth duly completed the second hundred of the day. Progress slowed slightly after I left at 5:15 but by the close Somerset had gained maximum batting points and were 441 for 5. My operatic friend who predicted a run riot had not been far off the mark and generally around the country it had been a batsman's day, a distinct change from much of the days that have preceded it since the beginning of April.
Having been unexpectedly given free admission I felt it would be unchariatble not to patronise the beer festival and enjoyed a pint of 'Ranmore' brewed by The Surrey Hills' Brewery which at a cost of £3 is almost as good as free admission in that part of the world.
I returned by the 19:00 train from King's Cross and was home shortly after nine feeling I had seen almost a full day of very entertaining cricket. To Headingley today but the weather prospects talk of cloud and light rain and when Yorkshire's turn comes batting may not be so easy. Many there will have half an ear or eye towards Lord's where it seems almost certain Jonny Bairstow will be the next Yorkshire man to make his England test debut. Good luck, Jonny.
* Molly Malone 'wheeled her wheel barrow through streets broad and narrow', get it?
Another one of my listed matches and another early start saw me at The Oval gates shortly after play had started in the match between Surrey and Somerset yesterday. This time the sun was shining and the prospects for a full day's play were good. Already in cheerful spirits after a comfortable and hassle free journey down I began to feel it might be my day when a Surrey member gave me a complimentary ticket just as I was about to hand over my £10 note for the one price fits all admission. Expressing my thanks and retrousering the tenner I entered the ground to find that there was a beer festival already in progress: definitely my day!
Somerset had won the toss and Suppiah and Barrow were already making good progress against the hosts who had left Ramprakash out of the eleven after his pair at New Road last week. Barrow, who almost single handed had come close to giving Somerset an unlikely victory at The Riverside on Sunday, dominated the opening stand and when he was caught in the gully for 47 a gentleman behind me who appeared to have made a good start on working his way through the fifty or so ales on offer at the beer festival, broke into a chorus of Molly Malone* (answers at the foot of the page). The wicket was placed towards the gasholder side which made my usual perch in the Bedser stand less attractive so I settled for a seat a few rows in front of the singer, who was already predicting a 'run riot'.
Suppiah was joined by Compton, whose name did not appear on the card, perhaps somebody had anticipated he might be at Lord's, and they were not parted until after lunch when Suppiah was run out for an excellent 106. Last week I saw him dismissed first ball at The Riverside and before yesterday the last four times I had seen him bat he had not reached double figures. Acting captain Hildreth was quickly into his stride and the Surrey attack was made to look very ordinary as runs came throughout the afternoon at close to five an over. Meaker looked the best of the pace quartet bowling with plenty of aggression, but their figures in this morning's paper show that between them the four took 2 for 315. What restraint there was came from Batty and De Bruyn.
Compton, who I would guess has spent more time at the crease this season than anybody else, was lbw in the last over before tea and Hildreth duly completed the second hundred of the day. Progress slowed slightly after I left at 5:15 but by the close Somerset had gained maximum batting points and were 441 for 5. My operatic friend who predicted a run riot had not been far off the mark and generally around the country it had been a batsman's day, a distinct change from much of the days that have preceded it since the beginning of April.
Having been unexpectedly given free admission I felt it would be unchariatble not to patronise the beer festival and enjoyed a pint of 'Ranmore' brewed by The Surrey Hills' Brewery which at a cost of £3 is almost as good as free admission in that part of the world.
I returned by the 19:00 train from King's Cross and was home shortly after nine feeling I had seen almost a full day of very entertaining cricket. To Headingley today but the weather prospects talk of cloud and light rain and when Yorkshire's turn comes batting may not be so easy. Many there will have half an ear or eye towards Lord's where it seems almost certain Jonny Bairstow will be the next Yorkshire man to make his England test debut. Good luck, Jonny.
* Molly Malone 'wheeled her wheel barrow through streets broad and narrow', get it?
Wednesday 16 May 2012
KATICH,S DAY
By Brian Sanderson,
On a sunny morning I walked up to Headingley Stadium to watch Yorkshire against Hampshire.Yorkshire side will be on a high after their victory at Bristol.Hampshire won the toss and batted however they soon lost early wickets.
As I was walking round the ground I saw Michael Missett who I went to school with in the 1960,s. He now lives in Derbyshire and mainly watchs Nottinghamshire. We sat in the sunshine watching Yorkshire collect four wickets before lunch.Not far away Brian Workman was sitting and joined us. Brian has recently retired and just started to watch Yorkshire cricket. I have known him through Wombwell.
Simon Katich who has played for Yorkshire and Lancashire started to score runs easily.He reached his century in 99 balls which is a excellent rate. We saw him been dropped by Jaques and Sidebottom.It was Root who got the next wicket as a part=time off-spinner.Brian had to go home to take his son to a cricket match.
After tea Katich and Michael Bates who is a under 19 England wicket-keeper put a century stand together.
At the end of the day Katich was 180 not out and Bates 88 not out which is his highest first class score.
The wicket looks very flat which could produce more runs for Hampshire to-morrow.
On a sunny morning I walked up to Headingley Stadium to watch Yorkshire against Hampshire.Yorkshire side will be on a high after their victory at Bristol.Hampshire won the toss and batted however they soon lost early wickets.
As I was walking round the ground I saw Michael Missett who I went to school with in the 1960,s. He now lives in Derbyshire and mainly watchs Nottinghamshire. We sat in the sunshine watching Yorkshire collect four wickets before lunch.Not far away Brian Workman was sitting and joined us. Brian has recently retired and just started to watch Yorkshire cricket. I have known him through Wombwell.
Simon Katich who has played for Yorkshire and Lancashire started to score runs easily.He reached his century in 99 balls which is a excellent rate. We saw him been dropped by Jaques and Sidebottom.It was Root who got the next wicket as a part=time off-spinner.Brian had to go home to take his son to a cricket match.
After tea Katich and Michael Bates who is a under 19 England wicket-keeper put a century stand together.
At the end of the day Katich was 180 not out and Bates 88 not out which is his highest first class score.
The wicket looks very flat which could produce more runs for Hampshire to-morrow.
Sunday 13 May 2012
WINDY LANCASHIRE
By Brian Sanderson,
Myself and Bob Procter decided to go to watch Enfield against Church .I know a number of Church supporter who are very friendly and enjoy watching cricket.We sent off from Headingley but were stuck in a traffic jam because of a half marathon at the Leeds Ring Road which was closed.However after losing 30 minutes because of traffic we managed to leave Leeds. On arriving at Keighley we were meet my another traffic jam due to road works.Next delay was caused by a train crossing as we had to wait for the train to pass.When we arrived at the ground the match had started with Church batting.
I visited the Enfield ground two years ago with Peter Mann and since then the tea-room had been burnt down .A new one is in the process of being built and the teas were served in the bar area overlooking the field.There was a cold wind blowing down the valley which made us qutie cold by the end of Church innnings. They had scored 131 which we thought was a low score. One of the supporters was David Lloyd of Sky T.V. who arrived on his motor cycle.
We decided to move on to Riston which was about 10 minutes away by car.They were playing Accrington who had scored 218 for 5 which looked a winning score. We sat behind the bowlers arm away from the wind but in the sunshine.It was very pleasent watching in a very neat ground.The only problem was a number of children playing near by.The football scorers kept been shouted out and a number of people were watching the television rather than the cricket.The cricket was poor as Riston struggled to get near the Accrington score.
So we decided to move on to Lowerhouse ground.
This ground I had not visited before and they were playing Nelson.As we arrived the ninth Nelson wicket had fallen and they were 70 chasing 232.Another non-match however it did not seem to matter to the home supporters who were happly drinking outside.The ground looked well kept and you could watch the match from the car.As we were leaving Nelson were bowled out for 76.
Nice to see the old friends from Church who will be going to Colywn Bay in June so Iook forward to seeing them . Church had bowled Enfield out for 124 so winning the match after looking at the Lancashire web-site after having my tea.Well done Church on Sunday.
Myself and Bob Procter decided to go to watch Enfield against Church .I know a number of Church supporter who are very friendly and enjoy watching cricket.We sent off from Headingley but were stuck in a traffic jam because of a half marathon at the Leeds Ring Road which was closed.However after losing 30 minutes because of traffic we managed to leave Leeds. On arriving at Keighley we were meet my another traffic jam due to road works.Next delay was caused by a train crossing as we had to wait for the train to pass.When we arrived at the ground the match had started with Church batting.
I visited the Enfield ground two years ago with Peter Mann and since then the tea-room had been burnt down .A new one is in the process of being built and the teas were served in the bar area overlooking the field.There was a cold wind blowing down the valley which made us qutie cold by the end of Church innnings. They had scored 131 which we thought was a low score. One of the supporters was David Lloyd of Sky T.V. who arrived on his motor cycle.
We decided to move on to Riston which was about 10 minutes away by car.They were playing Accrington who had scored 218 for 5 which looked a winning score. We sat behind the bowlers arm away from the wind but in the sunshine.It was very pleasent watching in a very neat ground.The only problem was a number of children playing near by.The football scorers kept been shouted out and a number of people were watching the television rather than the cricket.The cricket was poor as Riston struggled to get near the Accrington score.
So we decided to move on to Lowerhouse ground.
This ground I had not visited before and they were playing Nelson.As we arrived the ninth Nelson wicket had fallen and they were 70 chasing 232.Another non-match however it did not seem to matter to the home supporters who were happly drinking outside.The ground looked well kept and you could watch the match from the car.As we were leaving Nelson were bowled out for 76.
Nice to see the old friends from Church who will be going to Colywn Bay in June so Iook forward to seeing them . Church had bowled Enfield out for 124 so winning the match after looking at the Lancashire web-site after having my tea.Well done Church on Sunday.
Pardoe defies Surrey
Having spent a day last month in London SE11 dodging between The Oval and The Tate Gallery and eventually being frustrated by heavy showers, I returned home without seeing a ball bowled in the match between Surrey and Worcestershire. The opportunity to see the reverse fixture presented itself this week but not without some awkward decisions having to be made by both the Worcestershire authorities and this blogger. To nobody's surprise New Road found itself under water last weekend and the game was switched to Kidderminster (change at Droitwich Spa) then, as the waters receded, back to Worcester (don't change at Droitwich Spa), and so it was not until Friday that I made the decision to travel to New Road for the first time since 1996. My last visit had coincided with a heatwave and I was refused admission to the pavilion when my interpretation of 'smart casual' differed from the steward's ('too far from smart and too close to casual, sir') and I remember well, with Durham having reduced Worcestershire to 11 for 4, John Morris dropping Graeme Hick,in front of the pavilion now replaced by one named after him, (Hick not Morris). Hick went onto make 150 and Durham squandered a rare opportunity for a victory. The new pavilion seems alright until you remember what it replaced.
On Friday afternoon I checked that the forecast for yesterday was good enough to merit the early start needed and booked my train tickets only to discover that I had neglected to follow events at New Road where Surrey had been bowled out for 113 and in their second innings were 11 for 2. The prospect that Surrey might be bowled out twice in a day would not normally cause me much distress but on this occasion I was relieved when Messrs Pieterson,Hamilton-Brown and Maynard rescued the situation so that by close of play on Friday Surrey led by 44 with six wickets in hand thus setting up an interesting fourth day.
York station was busier than usual at 7:30 on Saturday morning with York City fans heading for Wembley.My trains were on time and remembering not to change at Droitwich Spa, I was in Worcester in plenty of time for the start of play. A more friendly welcome than at Northampton last week but again no age concessions on the gate, £15 for all adults.
No heatwave this time but almost perfect May weather made ideal watching conditions for a decent sized fourth day crowd. From the outset Surrey made their intentions very clear with Maynard and Hamilton- Brown batting so aggressively that by the time the cathedral clock struck noon 90 runs had been scored. The rate slowed a little but shortly after lunch Maynard passed his highest first class score at close to a run a ball and soon Surrey declared with a lead of 259 leaving The Pears a not unreasonable target in 52 overs.
Surrey's attack made early inroads and the tea score of 49 for 3 ruled out any hope of a home victory. The Australian Klinger was out caught sub: I had hoped he might be lbw which would have given me the opportunity to mention Klinger and Hawkeye in the same sentence, not sure about Hotlips, New Road isn't that sort of place. At 100 for 7 the game looked to be Surrey's but Stourbridge born Pardoe resisted for over one hundred deliveries to be not out 38 and with help from Lucas and Jones(another Stourbridge man) the game was declared a draw with one ball of the ultimate over left with Worcestershire taking eight points to Surrey's six and those who stayed to the end yesterday would feel they had seen an excellent day's entertainment.
I had to leave at tea but on the way home twitter enabled me to follow Yorkshire's progress in their remarkable run chase at Bristol and this morning's table sees them joint top with Derbyshire, a very satisfactory state of affairs before Wednesday's Headingley date with Hampshire.Up at The Riverside Durham managed to get past 200 and salvage a draw with just one wicket in hand. The most worrying feature of their poor early season form is that not one of their top six has yet to pass fifty. Be honest, you didn't expect to learnt that today, did you?
On Friday afternoon I checked that the forecast for yesterday was good enough to merit the early start needed and booked my train tickets only to discover that I had neglected to follow events at New Road where Surrey had been bowled out for 113 and in their second innings were 11 for 2. The prospect that Surrey might be bowled out twice in a day would not normally cause me much distress but on this occasion I was relieved when Messrs Pieterson,Hamilton-Brown and Maynard rescued the situation so that by close of play on Friday Surrey led by 44 with six wickets in hand thus setting up an interesting fourth day.
York station was busier than usual at 7:30 on Saturday morning with York City fans heading for Wembley.My trains were on time and remembering not to change at Droitwich Spa, I was in Worcester in plenty of time for the start of play. A more friendly welcome than at Northampton last week but again no age concessions on the gate, £15 for all adults.
No heatwave this time but almost perfect May weather made ideal watching conditions for a decent sized fourth day crowd. From the outset Surrey made their intentions very clear with Maynard and Hamilton- Brown batting so aggressively that by the time the cathedral clock struck noon 90 runs had been scored. The rate slowed a little but shortly after lunch Maynard passed his highest first class score at close to a run a ball and soon Surrey declared with a lead of 259 leaving The Pears a not unreasonable target in 52 overs.
Surrey's attack made early inroads and the tea score of 49 for 3 ruled out any hope of a home victory. The Australian Klinger was out caught sub: I had hoped he might be lbw which would have given me the opportunity to mention Klinger and Hawkeye in the same sentence, not sure about Hotlips, New Road isn't that sort of place. At 100 for 7 the game looked to be Surrey's but Stourbridge born Pardoe resisted for over one hundred deliveries to be not out 38 and with help from Lucas and Jones(another Stourbridge man) the game was declared a draw with one ball of the ultimate over left with Worcestershire taking eight points to Surrey's six and those who stayed to the end yesterday would feel they had seen an excellent day's entertainment.
I had to leave at tea but on the way home twitter enabled me to follow Yorkshire's progress in their remarkable run chase at Bristol and this morning's table sees them joint top with Derbyshire, a very satisfactory state of affairs before Wednesday's Headingley date with Hampshire.Up at The Riverside Durham managed to get past 200 and salvage a draw with just one wicket in hand. The most worrying feature of their poor early season form is that not one of their top six has yet to pass fifty. Be honest, you didn't expect to learnt that today, did you?
Saturday 12 May 2012
YORKSHIRE CRICKET CONNECTIONS
By Brian Sanderson,
A Saturday which had sun which made a nice change for this season.I picked up Ron Stansfield and Ron Deaton to see some Nidderdale grounds .It had rained heavily during the week causing some matches to be off.
The grounds we visited with matches off were Killinghall,Burnt Yates,Darley and Scotton.
The first match we saw was Hampsthwaite 3rd against Stavely 2rd on the Birthwith second ground. The ground is next to the river but the pitch was in good condition even after the rain.They have to put up a tent for the tea-room and the scorers sit under the Oak tree.Proper country cricket scene.Both sides had eleven players which is a good acheivement by both clubs.
Second match we watched was Dacre Bank against Killinghall. We were shown a picture of the ground under water on Friday but due to the sandy soil the rain had gone and left with a match.Dacre Bank were batting as we walked round the ground.I took a picture of the ground together withthe cottage were Herbert Sutcliffe was born.Eric Horseman stopped to talk to Ron Deaton about the old grounds of the Nidderdale League.Eric also talked about his time in the Yorkshire Nets in the 1950,s.All interesting information. His son Ian played some matches for Yorkshire.While we were talking Howard Cooper came round. He played 98 times for Yorkshire but has had to stop playing due injury.
Third match we saw was Burton Leonard Seconds against Newby Hall Seconds.New by Hall was batting chasing 168. The pavilion was opened by Ronnie Burnet in 1960,s who was the Yorkshire Captain in 1958 @1959 when they won the Championship. During the afternoon we were kept informed about the Yorshire score at Bristol. We were pleased to hear they won which was good as we sat out side pavilion Ronnie had opened..
When I looked at the League web-site to-night the scores of the Burton Leonard match were on the excellent web-site.Hpe to goto Lancashire League to-morrow.
A Saturday which had sun which made a nice change for this season.I picked up Ron Stansfield and Ron Deaton to see some Nidderdale grounds .It had rained heavily during the week causing some matches to be off.
The grounds we visited with matches off were Killinghall,Burnt Yates,Darley and Scotton.
The first match we saw was Hampsthwaite 3rd against Stavely 2rd on the Birthwith second ground. The ground is next to the river but the pitch was in good condition even after the rain.They have to put up a tent for the tea-room and the scorers sit under the Oak tree.Proper country cricket scene.Both sides had eleven players which is a good acheivement by both clubs.
Second match we watched was Dacre Bank against Killinghall. We were shown a picture of the ground under water on Friday but due to the sandy soil the rain had gone and left with a match.Dacre Bank were batting as we walked round the ground.I took a picture of the ground together withthe cottage were Herbert Sutcliffe was born.Eric Horseman stopped to talk to Ron Deaton about the old grounds of the Nidderdale League.Eric also talked about his time in the Yorkshire Nets in the 1950,s.All interesting information. His son Ian played some matches for Yorkshire.While we were talking Howard Cooper came round. He played 98 times for Yorkshire but has had to stop playing due injury.
Third match we saw was Burton Leonard Seconds against Newby Hall Seconds.New by Hall was batting chasing 168. The pavilion was opened by Ronnie Burnet in 1960,s who was the Yorkshire Captain in 1958 @1959 when they won the Championship. During the afternoon we were kept informed about the Yorshire score at Bristol. We were pleased to hear they won which was good as we sat out side pavilion Ronnie had opened..
When I looked at the League web-site to-night the scores of the Burton Leonard match were on the excellent web-site.Hpe to goto Lancashire League to-morrow.
Friday 11 May 2012
Out of Town
Sunday 6 May
Ashton-under-Lyne and Rochdale
A trip out Manchester way.
My quest to get to know all the CLL grounds is now well underway.
Initially, Ashton-under-Lyne CC. I recently acquired one of their centenary brochures and this has made me very interested in the club.
It was far more 'out-of-townish' than I had imagined, but nothing wrong in that.
A nice playing area and a spacious if slightly unorthodox pavilion, with the players sitting outside.
I had a sit inside, a cup of tea, and then found a perch outside the pavilion. Then a wander round the ground and a nice sit-down halfway round.
Then to Rochdale, a very impressive club.
The ground is spacious and has a large modern pavilion, with huge potential for social dos and the like.
I had a sit down and was then gifted some food by a woman I happened to bump into. I think she was at a wedding or birthday bash in one part of the pavilion and obviously thought they had too much food.
So I helped myself to three or four savoury delicacies - and kept my packed lunch for Monday.
I had a wander round the boundary's edge. Very impressed by all the advertising boards - a very ambitious and go-ahead club.
My hero Chris Schofield also had his name in lights - I think he opened the new scorebox at the ground. He's obviously a Rochdale lad who made good.
Sunday 6 May
Ashton-under-Lyne and Rochdale
A trip out Manchester way.
My quest to get to know all the CLL grounds is now well underway.
Initially, Ashton-under-Lyne CC. I recently acquired one of their centenary brochures and this has made me very interested in the club.
It was far more 'out-of-townish' than I had imagined, but nothing wrong in that.
A nice playing area and a spacious if slightly unorthodox pavilion, with the players sitting outside.
I had a sit inside, a cup of tea, and then found a perch outside the pavilion. Then a wander round the ground and a nice sit-down halfway round.
Then to Rochdale, a very impressive club.
The ground is spacious and has a large modern pavilion, with huge potential for social dos and the like.
I had a sit down and was then gifted some food by a woman I happened to bump into. I think she was at a wedding or birthday bash in one part of the pavilion and obviously thought they had too much food.
So I helped myself to three or four savoury delicacies - and kept my packed lunch for Monday.
I had a wander round the boundary's edge. Very impressed by all the advertising boards - a very ambitious and go-ahead club.
My hero Chris Schofield also had his name in lights - I think he opened the new scorebox at the ground. He's obviously a Rochdale lad who made good.
Dental Dreams
Saturday 5 May
Birkby Nuffield and Birchencliffe
A Huddersfield tour. First up Birkby Nuffield, the club I used to play for - YMCA as was.
We caught the game at its start. We sat on the boundary edge, close to the hospital and enjoyed the view.
I popped into the pavilion and bought a couple of cups of tea.
I was struck by how many changes had been made to club property since my time at the club - a new door here, a ramp there etc.
The club has really worked hard and they have a fine ground to work on. There is a new regime in place and they are doing a great job.
On the field they also seem to be doing well - I always seem to see them at the league's awards nights.
The main man is actually my dentist - a very fine medical man and also a guy who is backing the cricket club. He's got big plans. Good on him - a very impressive effort.
Then we moved up the road - litrerally - to Birchencliffe, another progressive club with lots of plans.
They've recently concluded a ground-share agreement with another local sports club. Their ground is neat and can be seen from some of the nearby roads - almost bird's-eye style.
They used to be the big rivals when I played at the YMCA.
I bought a cool drink and then sat in the new extension at the front of the pavilion. Dad had a wander round meantime. All very pleasant.
Saturday 5 May
Birkby Nuffield and Birchencliffe
A Huddersfield tour. First up Birkby Nuffield, the club I used to play for - YMCA as was.
We caught the game at its start. We sat on the boundary edge, close to the hospital and enjoyed the view.
I popped into the pavilion and bought a couple of cups of tea.
I was struck by how many changes had been made to club property since my time at the club - a new door here, a ramp there etc.
The club has really worked hard and they have a fine ground to work on. There is a new regime in place and they are doing a great job.
On the field they also seem to be doing well - I always seem to see them at the league's awards nights.
The main man is actually my dentist - a very fine medical man and also a guy who is backing the cricket club. He's got big plans. Good on him - a very impressive effort.
Then we moved up the road - litrerally - to Birchencliffe, another progressive club with lots of plans.
They've recently concluded a ground-share agreement with another local sports club. Their ground is neat and can be seen from some of the nearby roads - almost bird's-eye style.
They used to be the big rivals when I played at the YMCA.
I bought a cool drink and then sat in the new extension at the front of the pavilion. Dad had a wander round meantime. All very pleasant.
Thursday 10 May 2012
Back to the bad old days
posted by John Winn
Like Brian I headed north to The Riverside yesterday to see bottom of the table Durham take on Somerset. In the corresponding match last year played in the same week but in much different conditions, Mustard won the toss and put Somerset in and after losing Suppiah for nought they made 610 for 6 with Compton hitting 254 not out. Compton is absent from this year's match, on Lions duty, and the Somerset side had a very youthful look. This time Somerset skipper Hildreth called correctly and one can safely assume had no hesitation in putting Durham in. By lunch they had reached 88 for 3 which in the prevailing conditions and in their current form was not a bad effort. With the sun shining hopes were expressed that the pitch would become easier and a useful score might be built. Like the visitors Durham were weakened, in their case by injuries to Stokes and Benkenstein, although had he been fit Stokes too would have been with the Lions.
The immediate post lunch took seasoned watchers back to the 1990s for in very short time Durham were bowled out for 125, losing their last five wickets for eight runs and little blame could be placed on the pitch. Somerset bowled straight, pitched it up and Durham crumbled. No worse shot was played than that by skipper Mustard whose return to the pavilion was met in silence. This was the fourth time Durham have been bowled out for under two hundred this season.
When Somerset batted it looked as though their innings might go the same way for Suppiah was out first ball and Barrow followed shortly after. When Hildreth was out it was 45 for 4 but their position was rescued by Kieswetter, Trego and Meschede and by close they had a lead of 95 with two wickets in hand. Almost a full day's play was possible in contrast to Bristol and Hove where there was no play and things were little better at the other four venues. The rain move steadily up from the south and as I travelled back to York by train the first spots were on the carriage windows at about Thirsk. Today's forecast for Chester le Street is a dismal one but if Friday and Saturday should prove to be fine then Durham may find it hard to avoid their third defeat of the season and there only comfort is likely to be three bowling points.
Like Brian I headed north to The Riverside yesterday to see bottom of the table Durham take on Somerset. In the corresponding match last year played in the same week but in much different conditions, Mustard won the toss and put Somerset in and after losing Suppiah for nought they made 610 for 6 with Compton hitting 254 not out. Compton is absent from this year's match, on Lions duty, and the Somerset side had a very youthful look. This time Somerset skipper Hildreth called correctly and one can safely assume had no hesitation in putting Durham in. By lunch they had reached 88 for 3 which in the prevailing conditions and in their current form was not a bad effort. With the sun shining hopes were expressed that the pitch would become easier and a useful score might be built. Like the visitors Durham were weakened, in their case by injuries to Stokes and Benkenstein, although had he been fit Stokes too would have been with the Lions.
The immediate post lunch took seasoned watchers back to the 1990s for in very short time Durham were bowled out for 125, losing their last five wickets for eight runs and little blame could be placed on the pitch. Somerset bowled straight, pitched it up and Durham crumbled. No worse shot was played than that by skipper Mustard whose return to the pavilion was met in silence. This was the fourth time Durham have been bowled out for under two hundred this season.
When Somerset batted it looked as though their innings might go the same way for Suppiah was out first ball and Barrow followed shortly after. When Hildreth was out it was 45 for 4 but their position was rescued by Kieswetter, Trego and Meschede and by close they had a lead of 95 with two wickets in hand. Almost a full day's play was possible in contrast to Bristol and Hove where there was no play and things were little better at the other four venues. The rain move steadily up from the south and as I travelled back to York by train the first spots were on the carriage windows at about Thirsk. Today's forecast for Chester le Street is a dismal one but if Friday and Saturday should prove to be fine then Durham may find it hard to avoid their third defeat of the season and there only comfort is likely to be three bowling points.
Wednesday 9 May 2012
FORECAST RIGHT
By Brian Sanderson,
On Tuesday night I looked at the weather forecast.They said Trent Bridge will have rain in the afternoon so we went to Chester-Le -Street were the forecast was dry.The match was Durham against Somerset in the first division. Somerset won the toss and put Durham into bat.It was a chance to see Philander bowl for the first time. He had broke quickly into into the Test scene with a number of wickets.
We sat near the dressing room looikng at Lumbley Castle. This must be the most picturesque view in County Cricket.Durham were three wickets down at lunch for eighty with Stoneman and Muchall batting well.However Durham were bowled out for 125. The best bowling figures surprisingly was by Craig Overton with four wickets and was clamped off the pitch my his team mates. Looking at the Second Team Annual, he was boirn in Barnstaple and has a twin brother James who also plays for Somerset.When Collingwood was out we heard the bat been thrown in the dressing room and shouts from him.
When Somerset batted they lost a wicket in the first ball bowled by Onions. At tea time we walked over to the Media Centre were they were selling cricket books.There was two books written by Tony Hutton and Peter Davies.By this time the Nottingham match was rain off so we made the correct decision. Theweather was dry but getting colder.We decided to leave the ground with Kieswetter and Mechede batting. both been born in Johannesburg but that is English County cricket.We drove back to Leeds in the rain.
On Tuesday night I looked at the weather forecast.They said Trent Bridge will have rain in the afternoon so we went to Chester-Le -Street were the forecast was dry.The match was Durham against Somerset in the first division. Somerset won the toss and put Durham into bat.It was a chance to see Philander bowl for the first time. He had broke quickly into into the Test scene with a number of wickets.
We sat near the dressing room looikng at Lumbley Castle. This must be the most picturesque view in County Cricket.Durham were three wickets down at lunch for eighty with Stoneman and Muchall batting well.However Durham were bowled out for 125. The best bowling figures surprisingly was by Craig Overton with four wickets and was clamped off the pitch my his team mates. Looking at the Second Team Annual, he was boirn in Barnstaple and has a twin brother James who also plays for Somerset.When Collingwood was out we heard the bat been thrown in the dressing room and shouts from him.
When Somerset batted they lost a wicket in the first ball bowled by Onions. At tea time we walked over to the Media Centre were they were selling cricket books.There was two books written by Tony Hutton and Peter Davies.By this time the Nottingham match was rain off so we made the correct decision. Theweather was dry but getting colder.We decided to leave the ground with Kieswetter and Mechede batting. both been born in Johannesburg but that is English County cricket.We drove back to Leeds in the rain.
Day 2
Old Trafford
A very good night in my hotel room and then an early-morning stroll for a paper when I got up.
Then a read and a top-class breakfast downstairs.
Play started promptly on time - really wonderful weather again!
Lancs were up against it. They conceded a first-innings lead and watched Notts increase their lead.
I was sitting close to the pavilion. I was quite frustrated though by the fact that I had to vacate my room by 12. I wanted to stay in there permanently!
It looked like it was going to be 3 defeats out of 4 for Lancs. Relegation anyone?!
Bumped into Gerald from Gomersal and Steve from Warrington. I'm trying to get him to start blogging - he's everywhere!
Got the train back to Huddersfield.
Old Trafford
A very good night in my hotel room and then an early-morning stroll for a paper when I got up.
Then a read and a top-class breakfast downstairs.
Play started promptly on time - really wonderful weather again!
Lancs were up against it. They conceded a first-innings lead and watched Notts increase their lead.
I was sitting close to the pavilion. I was quite frustrated though by the fact that I had to vacate my room by 12. I wanted to stay in there permanently!
It looked like it was going to be 3 defeats out of 4 for Lancs. Relegation anyone?!
Bumped into Gerald from Gomersal and Steve from Warrington. I'm trying to get him to start blogging - he's everywhere!
Got the train back to Huddersfield.
Lancashire v Notts
Wednesday 2 May
Old Trafford
Posted by Peter Davies
My spiritual home...
Arrived in Manchester city c entre very eaerly and had a pot of tea in the Midland Hotel. Then the tram to OT.
Old Trafford was looking good in the sun but I was very disappointed by the state of the ground. The pavilion was still out of order and the whole place looked a mess. There was a makeshift coffee bar, a relocated club shop and, in general, a feeling of temporariness.
Notts batted and Lancs did well, restricting them to 160-odd. Then Lancs started but lost wickets and didiok as if they were going to overhaul their smallish target.
Prince batted well for Lancs. Really like him: tough, uncompromuising, non-flashy and he always sells his wicket dearly. Lancs have him for the full summer - a very good signing.
I was staying at the Old Trafford hotel and I went in there just before 3. Very smart indeed and I enjoyed the rest on my bed.
Then sat on the balcony for the last hour - again, top-class stuff.
Wednesday 2 May
Old Trafford
Posted by Peter Davies
My spiritual home...
Arrived in Manchester city c entre very eaerly and had a pot of tea in the Midland Hotel. Then the tram to OT.
Old Trafford was looking good in the sun but I was very disappointed by the state of the ground. The pavilion was still out of order and the whole place looked a mess. There was a makeshift coffee bar, a relocated club shop and, in general, a feeling of temporariness.
Notts batted and Lancs did well, restricting them to 160-odd. Then Lancs started but lost wickets and didiok as if they were going to overhaul their smallish target.
Prince batted well for Lancs. Really like him: tough, uncompromuising, non-flashy and he always sells his wicket dearly. Lancs have him for the full summer - a very good signing.
I was staying at the Old Trafford hotel and I went in there just before 3. Very smart indeed and I enjoyed the rest on my bed.
Then sat on the balcony for the last hour - again, top-class stuff.
Monday 7 May 2012
A couple of cups
posted by John Winn
Yesterday, for the second time this season, I drove to St George's Road, the home of Harrogate cc. My previous visit had been for the first day of what the club hoped would be a four day festival of cricket with Second Eleven Trophy and Championship matches between Yorkshire II and Leicestershire II. So wet was the ground on that day that it was hard to see any cricket being played, not just on that day but for the rest of the week. This indeed proved to be the case but yesterday provided a contrasting scene with clear skies, bright sunshine and reasonable temperatures.
The match in progress was a national ko cup first round group one tie between Harrogate and Beverley Town from the York and District Senior League Premier Division. The home team were batting and making good progress with Alexis Twigg and Vic Craven at the crease. Scores of 80 and 53 respectively helped Harrogate to 247 all out, the tenth wicket falling in the last of their 45 overs with Matt Smith taking 6 for 56. An unusual feature of the innings was an all run five and off the next ball an all run four wides.
Beverley's opening bat, Faisal Abid made 76 but received little support and the East Yorkshire men were all out for 185, losers by 62 runs. In the second round Harrogate will play either Marton or Driffield whose delayed tie will now be played next Sunday. This is a strong group with teams from Northumberland, County Durham and North and East Yorkshire competing. Second round matches were originally scheduled for next Sunday but the weather has severely disrupted the schedule. Let's hope things can be sorted out so that the group finals can be played on the appointed day, Sunday 17th June.
The competition this year is being sponsored by Kingfisher Beer.Group two covers teams from South Yorks, North Derbyshire, North Notts and Lincolnshire.
On my way to Harrogate I had spotted cricket being played at Whixley and calling in on my way home I found it was another cup match, albeit a little further down the hierarchy of club cricket with Whixley A taking on Great Preston A in a first round Hare Cup match, a competition for second teams in the Wetherby League. In this relatively low lying area on the edge of The Vale of York the ground commands fine views in all directions and in yesterday's sunshine it was possible to see the towers of York Minister to the east and The Kilburn White Horse near Sutton Bank to the north. Whixley had batted first and reached 154 for 6 and the league website this morning shows that Great Preston fell short of this total by 37 runs. Another result from yesterday's games in this competition: Headingley A 208, Kirk Deighton 27,. Ouch!
Yesterday, for the second time this season, I drove to St George's Road, the home of Harrogate cc. My previous visit had been for the first day of what the club hoped would be a four day festival of cricket with Second Eleven Trophy and Championship matches between Yorkshire II and Leicestershire II. So wet was the ground on that day that it was hard to see any cricket being played, not just on that day but for the rest of the week. This indeed proved to be the case but yesterday provided a contrasting scene with clear skies, bright sunshine and reasonable temperatures.
The match in progress was a national ko cup first round group one tie between Harrogate and Beverley Town from the York and District Senior League Premier Division. The home team were batting and making good progress with Alexis Twigg and Vic Craven at the crease. Scores of 80 and 53 respectively helped Harrogate to 247 all out, the tenth wicket falling in the last of their 45 overs with Matt Smith taking 6 for 56. An unusual feature of the innings was an all run five and off the next ball an all run four wides.
Beverley's opening bat, Faisal Abid made 76 but received little support and the East Yorkshire men were all out for 185, losers by 62 runs. In the second round Harrogate will play either Marton or Driffield whose delayed tie will now be played next Sunday. This is a strong group with teams from Northumberland, County Durham and North and East Yorkshire competing. Second round matches were originally scheduled for next Sunday but the weather has severely disrupted the schedule. Let's hope things can be sorted out so that the group finals can be played on the appointed day, Sunday 17th June.
The competition this year is being sponsored by Kingfisher Beer.Group two covers teams from South Yorks, North Derbyshire, North Notts and Lincolnshire.
On my way to Harrogate I had spotted cricket being played at Whixley and calling in on my way home I found it was another cup match, albeit a little further down the hierarchy of club cricket with Whixley A taking on Great Preston A in a first round Hare Cup match, a competition for second teams in the Wetherby League. In this relatively low lying area on the edge of The Vale of York the ground commands fine views in all directions and in yesterday's sunshine it was possible to see the towers of York Minister to the east and The Kilburn White Horse near Sutton Bank to the north. Whixley had batted first and reached 154 for 6 and the league website this morning shows that Great Preston fell short of this total by 37 runs. Another result from yesterday's games in this competition: Headingley A 208, Kirk Deighton 27,. Ouch!
Sunday 6 May 2012
NO WOMAN NO CRY
By Brian Sanderson,
I wandered up to watch the first 40 overs match at Headingley were Yorkshire were playing Kent again.
Yorkshire played them in the Championship 5thApril so I knew the players.
Sun was shining and was warmer than yesterday.Looking at the Langbarugh web-site this morning only two matches were played yesterday in the league.
Yorkshire won the toss and were soon 22 for 4 with Davies and Coles bowling well again.Davies figures were 8 overs for 17 and one wicket.Yorkshire had to put a patnership together to make a match.Gale and Root did this and Yorkshire managed to get to 175.Coles took 6 wickets for 32 which was his best bowling figures inCB 40.There was a interesting incident when the bowler was running into the wicket and Stevens shouted out to stopped the bowler.There were to many fielders out of the circle which would have caused a no-ball.
There score was not enough to win the match however it was warm enough to sit outside.
There was a decent crowd to watch chase the runs.Geoff Boycott was seen in the Long Room which was good to see.Yorshire bowling attack was poor apart from Rafiq who bowled 8 overs for 22 and claimed 3 wickets.Key and Stephens batted well and Kent won at a canter and were never under any pressure.
During the match there were numerous records were played including Bob Marley,s No woman no cry.It a song which sticks in your memory. The problem with one day matches you can predict at half time who will the match. There are exceptions ,this but thiswas not one of them.
I wandered up to watch the first 40 overs match at Headingley were Yorkshire were playing Kent again.
Yorkshire played them in the Championship 5thApril so I knew the players.
Sun was shining and was warmer than yesterday.Looking at the Langbarugh web-site this morning only two matches were played yesterday in the league.
Yorkshire won the toss and were soon 22 for 4 with Davies and Coles bowling well again.Davies figures were 8 overs for 17 and one wicket.Yorkshire had to put a patnership together to make a match.Gale and Root did this and Yorkshire managed to get to 175.Coles took 6 wickets for 32 which was his best bowling figures inCB 40.There was a interesting incident when the bowler was running into the wicket and Stevens shouted out to stopped the bowler.There were to many fielders out of the circle which would have caused a no-ball.
There score was not enough to win the match however it was warm enough to sit outside.
There was a decent crowd to watch chase the runs.Geoff Boycott was seen in the Long Room which was good to see.Yorshire bowling attack was poor apart from Rafiq who bowled 8 overs for 22 and claimed 3 wickets.Key and Stephens batted well and Kent won at a canter and were never under any pressure.
During the match there were numerous records were played including Bob Marley,s No woman no cry.It a song which sticks in your memory. The problem with one day matches you can predict at half time who will the match. There are exceptions ,this but thiswas not one of them.
Cobblers spoil the show
posted by John Winn
When the ambient temperature falls to 4c a snowflake icon appears on the instrument panel of my car and sure enough when I turned the key at 7:00 am yesterday morning up popped a reminder, as if one were needed, that it was cold. The snowflake did not disappear until I crossed the River Trent on my journey to Northampton to see the 'Rose among Shires', whatever that means, take on Hampshire on the fourth day of their Div Two Championship match. I had investigated the possibility of travelling by train but when the 'Train Times' app on my phone suggested a route via Manchester and Milton Keynes I decided that driving might be the better option.
I have been to the Wantage Road ground on a number of occasions, as far back as the 1970s when Northampton Town played there and to see cricket for the first time in 1994 for Northants v Middlesex when the home side included Lamb and Ambrose and the visitors Haynes, Frazer, Gatting and Tufnell. Man of the match, however was J.D. Carr, with a century in both innings, not enough to prevent a Northants victory by six wickets.
The casual paying customer is treated with some suspicion at the County Ground, probably because they are an unusual sight, but when it was established that I was not a member they prised £16 (no concessions) out of me which rather took the gloss of the fact that I had been able to park within 50 yards of the gate all day for nowt.
At the start of play yesterday the match was interestingly poised Northants holding a lead of 235 with 5 second wickets in hand. Captain Andrew Hall seemed to declare his side's intentions when he struck two fours in the first over but thereafter they rather lost their way, losing wickets and not scoring particularly quickly. These situations are always interesting for spectators allowing them to speculate when a declaration might be forthcoming and discussion among some long serving Northants' members was given added spice by the fact that one of their number had placed a bet that all three of the town's teams would win on the day, cricket, rugby union and football.
When the declaration did come it left Hampshire with half an hour's batting before lunch which it was generally agreed was about right, 297 off 70 overs. One dissenter, for whom I suspect joy is rarely unconfined, thought it 'too generous'. With Dawson removed before lunch and Terry shortly afterwards Hants never looked likely to make a decent fist of the chase, although Carberry played some enterprising shots including two sixes. When, in the last over before tea, he was given out lbw to a ball which seemed to be going down legside any hope disappeared and local boys Willey and Brooks claimed the remaining wickets to leave Hampshire 117 runs short. The two teams now have one win each and both are on 32 points after four matches.
When I left at tea the gateman was still in his sentry box although by now he had reduced his asking price to £10, for which sum any man, woman or child could get a full day's play at The Oval. Has it occurred to the authorities at Wantage Road that there might just be a link between admission charges and attendances?
Tuning to Radio Northampton as I made my way back to the M1 I heard confirmation of Northants' victory and success for the rugby team but alas for my betting friend a last minute goal was only enough to give Northampton Town a draw at Rotherham thus dashing his hopes of a treble. Cobblers!
When the ambient temperature falls to 4c a snowflake icon appears on the instrument panel of my car and sure enough when I turned the key at 7:00 am yesterday morning up popped a reminder, as if one were needed, that it was cold. The snowflake did not disappear until I crossed the River Trent on my journey to Northampton to see the 'Rose among Shires', whatever that means, take on Hampshire on the fourth day of their Div Two Championship match. I had investigated the possibility of travelling by train but when the 'Train Times' app on my phone suggested a route via Manchester and Milton Keynes I decided that driving might be the better option.
I have been to the Wantage Road ground on a number of occasions, as far back as the 1970s when Northampton Town played there and to see cricket for the first time in 1994 for Northants v Middlesex when the home side included Lamb and Ambrose and the visitors Haynes, Frazer, Gatting and Tufnell. Man of the match, however was J.D. Carr, with a century in both innings, not enough to prevent a Northants victory by six wickets.
The casual paying customer is treated with some suspicion at the County Ground, probably because they are an unusual sight, but when it was established that I was not a member they prised £16 (no concessions) out of me which rather took the gloss of the fact that I had been able to park within 50 yards of the gate all day for nowt.
At the start of play yesterday the match was interestingly poised Northants holding a lead of 235 with 5 second wickets in hand. Captain Andrew Hall seemed to declare his side's intentions when he struck two fours in the first over but thereafter they rather lost their way, losing wickets and not scoring particularly quickly. These situations are always interesting for spectators allowing them to speculate when a declaration might be forthcoming and discussion among some long serving Northants' members was given added spice by the fact that one of their number had placed a bet that all three of the town's teams would win on the day, cricket, rugby union and football.
When the declaration did come it left Hampshire with half an hour's batting before lunch which it was generally agreed was about right, 297 off 70 overs. One dissenter, for whom I suspect joy is rarely unconfined, thought it 'too generous'. With Dawson removed before lunch and Terry shortly afterwards Hants never looked likely to make a decent fist of the chase, although Carberry played some enterprising shots including two sixes. When, in the last over before tea, he was given out lbw to a ball which seemed to be going down legside any hope disappeared and local boys Willey and Brooks claimed the remaining wickets to leave Hampshire 117 runs short. The two teams now have one win each and both are on 32 points after four matches.
When I left at tea the gateman was still in his sentry box although by now he had reduced his asking price to £10, for which sum any man, woman or child could get a full day's play at The Oval. Has it occurred to the authorities at Wantage Road that there might just be a link between admission charges and attendances?
Tuning to Radio Northampton as I made my way back to the M1 I heard confirmation of Northants' victory and success for the rugby team but alas for my betting friend a last minute goal was only enough to give Northampton Town a draw at Rotherham thus dashing his hopes of a treble. Cobblers!
Saturday 5 May 2012
UMPIRING OR WASHING UP
By Brian Sanderson,
First Saturday in the leagues and set off with a car full.Myself,Ron Stansfield , Ron Deaton and Nigal Pullen .Went first to Kirby Sigston who were due to play Hartlepool Powerstation in the Inshore Fisheries League or Langbaugh.
Kirby Sigston is near Northallerton and is a small village.The ground is along a dirt road and as we arrived we could see no men in whites.There was a pitch was cut but it must have been called off.
Next ground is the beautiful ground of Thorp Perrow which I had visited before.The match should have been Northallerton Wolves against Bolton Abbey Seconds and again nobody about so retreated back passed the sheep.
Next ground was Kirkington were Sharrow Thirds were playing Galphay and Winkersley Seconds in the Theaston Nidderdale League.Kirkington only play mid-week so Sharrow Thirds use the ground which is Situated on the outskirt of the village.The ground is surround by Yellow rape seed with good views of the hills.
It was a eight a side match which Sharrow won easily.
Fourth ground was situated in the deer park at Ripon were Studley Royal Thirds were playing Crakehall.
The ground is at the front of the Stable Block which is now a house.The pitch was damp and there was a cold northerly wind blowing.However there is good views and we were able to have some tea here.At the end of the tea I heard a comment by a Studley Royal player asking another player if he want to umpire or wash up.He decided to wash up.
Fifth ground was in Ripon Grammar School were Studley Royal Fifth were playing Wath and Melmerby.
It is a excellent pitch which was in good condition.Nigel said he had taken seven wickets in a school match on this ground fifty years ago.I asked the scorers want the scores were .He said Wath had scored 133 but could not balance the book. A young girl was bowling for Wath as were leeaving.
The last ground was Birstall were the Seconds were playing North Stainley.There is a new brick built pavilion was had been built by the villagers.It looked a excellent building.However North Stainly won the match.
I would just thank Brian Cobb for th ofe support the Blog.Hope people enjoy it.
To-morrowgoing to the stadium known as Headingley.At least Yorkshire won at Scarborough.
First Saturday in the leagues and set off with a car full.Myself,Ron Stansfield , Ron Deaton and Nigal Pullen .Went first to Kirby Sigston who were due to play Hartlepool Powerstation in the Inshore Fisheries League or Langbaugh.
Kirby Sigston is near Northallerton and is a small village.The ground is along a dirt road and as we arrived we could see no men in whites.There was a pitch was cut but it must have been called off.
Next ground is the beautiful ground of Thorp Perrow which I had visited before.The match should have been Northallerton Wolves against Bolton Abbey Seconds and again nobody about so retreated back passed the sheep.
Next ground was Kirkington were Sharrow Thirds were playing Galphay and Winkersley Seconds in the Theaston Nidderdale League.Kirkington only play mid-week so Sharrow Thirds use the ground which is Situated on the outskirt of the village.The ground is surround by Yellow rape seed with good views of the hills.
It was a eight a side match which Sharrow won easily.
Fourth ground was situated in the deer park at Ripon were Studley Royal Thirds were playing Crakehall.
The ground is at the front of the Stable Block which is now a house.The pitch was damp and there was a cold northerly wind blowing.However there is good views and we were able to have some tea here.At the end of the tea I heard a comment by a Studley Royal player asking another player if he want to umpire or wash up.He decided to wash up.
Fifth ground was in Ripon Grammar School were Studley Royal Fifth were playing Wath and Melmerby.
It is a excellent pitch which was in good condition.Nigel said he had taken seven wickets in a school match on this ground fifty years ago.I asked the scorers want the scores were .He said Wath had scored 133 but could not balance the book. A young girl was bowling for Wath as were leeaving.
The last ground was Birstall were the Seconds were playing North Stainley.There is a new brick built pavilion was had been built by the villagers.It looked a excellent building.However North Stainly won the match.
I would just thank Brian Cobb for th ofe support the Blog.Hope people enjoy it.
To-morrowgoing to the stadium known as Headingley.At least Yorkshire won at Scarborough.
Thursday 3 May 2012
Students triumph at Weetwood
posted by John Winn
As I drove to Weetwood this morning the skies did not look promising but in the event the threatened rain did not make it so far north and the students of Leeds/Bradford University followed up their good work of yesterday and not long after tea completed a famous victory over a Sussex side containing a number of players with first team experience.
A number of pcws were present when play was called and were rather puzzled by Leeds/Bradford's cautious approach and it was not until the last pair of higginbottom and Thomas came together that progress rose above pedestrian and their unbeaten stand had reached 19 when a declaration was made leaving Sussex 8 overs to get through before lunch which they duly did. Their progress through this period was slow and suggested that they felt the target of 256 was not achievable. Openers Finch and Adkins scored at little more than two an over and it was not until the second wicket fell bringing Matthew Machen to the crease that things livened up and he was joined in a stand of 96 by South African Kirk Werners, scoring at a rate that suggested a possible victory. Machen's 76 was at more than a run a ball but when he became one of six victims for Ivan Thomas and Gondal was bowled next ball the innings declined rapidly to 176 all out, victory for the students by 79 runs.
Whilst nowhere near as cold as Scarborough had been yesterday umpire Millns was overheard to say he had on nine layers of clothing. The prospects for club cricket in Yorkshire seem a little better for this weekend and for some clubs that means three days cricket with league commitments on Saturday and Monday and cup matches on Sunday, in a number of cases postponed from last Sunday.
I have still not given up hopes of getting to see Northants v Hants and today's rain at Wantage Road increases the likelihood of there being a full day's cricket on Saturday although I may need to scrape ice off my windscreen before setting off. The merry month of May, pah.
As I drove to Weetwood this morning the skies did not look promising but in the event the threatened rain did not make it so far north and the students of Leeds/Bradford University followed up their good work of yesterday and not long after tea completed a famous victory over a Sussex side containing a number of players with first team experience.
A number of pcws were present when play was called and were rather puzzled by Leeds/Bradford's cautious approach and it was not until the last pair of higginbottom and Thomas came together that progress rose above pedestrian and their unbeaten stand had reached 19 when a declaration was made leaving Sussex 8 overs to get through before lunch which they duly did. Their progress through this period was slow and suggested that they felt the target of 256 was not achievable. Openers Finch and Adkins scored at little more than two an over and it was not until the second wicket fell bringing Matthew Machen to the crease that things livened up and he was joined in a stand of 96 by South African Kirk Werners, scoring at a rate that suggested a possible victory. Machen's 76 was at more than a run a ball but when he became one of six victims for Ivan Thomas and Gondal was bowled next ball the innings declined rapidly to 176 all out, victory for the students by 79 runs.
Whilst nowhere near as cold as Scarborough had been yesterday umpire Millns was overheard to say he had on nine layers of clothing. The prospects for club cricket in Yorkshire seem a little better for this weekend and for some clubs that means three days cricket with league commitments on Saturday and Monday and cup matches on Sunday, in a number of cases postponed from last Sunday.
I have still not given up hopes of getting to see Northants v Hants and today's rain at Wantage Road increases the likelihood of there being a full day's cricket on Saturday although I may need to scrape ice off my windscreen before setting off. The merry month of May, pah.
FREEZING SCARBOROUGH
By Brian Sanderson,
The weather forecast was dry so I set off with Bob Procter to Scarborough.Bairstow was still not out with a prospect of a big score.We sat down by the pavilion hoping to get away from the cold breeze however this did not happen.It got so cold we watch the match from the tea shop , with Bob asking for hot chocolate.
Bairstow got out with his score on 182 and Yorkshire had achieved another batting bonus point but never looked like scoring 400 by the 110 over.Mc Grath had managed 19 runs in 90 minutes.Bresnan manged to run himself out trying a third run on overthrow.Lunchtime came and we retreated to the car for wamth and sandwiches.
After lunch we went to set at the Trafalgar Square end were I spoke to Brian Cobb for the first time this season.Mr and Mrs McGrath watched their son score 90 with Yorkshire been bowled out for 447.Whilst Leicester were batting Steve Patterson passed on some hand warmers to Anthony,s parents.Yorkshire could help to reduce their debt if they started selling hand warmers to sepectators.I was then joined by Peter Mann who was spending a few days in Scarborough for the match.Overall the crowd was very poor due the cold weather.
Yorkshire started to get wickets regularly with Bresnan not getting any. He looked very fit with the England fitness regime.The wickets fell to Patterson and McGrath.After tea we again went to tea shop to watch behind glass.We decided to leave at 5 P.M. with Leicester eight wickets down.Yorkshire should win this match subject to the weather.It was hard work watching in the cold weather and look forward to some warmth.
The weather forecast was dry so I set off with Bob Procter to Scarborough.Bairstow was still not out with a prospect of a big score.We sat down by the pavilion hoping to get away from the cold breeze however this did not happen.It got so cold we watch the match from the tea shop , with Bob asking for hot chocolate.
Bairstow got out with his score on 182 and Yorkshire had achieved another batting bonus point but never looked like scoring 400 by the 110 over.Mc Grath had managed 19 runs in 90 minutes.Bresnan manged to run himself out trying a third run on overthrow.Lunchtime came and we retreated to the car for wamth and sandwiches.
After lunch we went to set at the Trafalgar Square end were I spoke to Brian Cobb for the first time this season.Mr and Mrs McGrath watched their son score 90 with Yorkshire been bowled out for 447.Whilst Leicester were batting Steve Patterson passed on some hand warmers to Anthony,s parents.Yorkshire could help to reduce their debt if they started selling hand warmers to sepectators.I was then joined by Peter Mann who was spending a few days in Scarborough for the match.Overall the crowd was very poor due the cold weather.
Yorkshire started to get wickets regularly with Bresnan not getting any. He looked very fit with the England fitness regime.The wickets fell to Patterson and McGrath.After tea we again went to tea shop to watch behind glass.We decided to leave at 5 P.M. with Leicester eight wickets down.Yorkshire should win this match subject to the weather.It was hard work watching in the cold weather and look forward to some warmth.
Foxes on the run
posted by John Winn
96 overs were bowled at Scarborough yesterday. No rain, no bad light, just a chilling wind blowing off Peasholm Park lake that kept the flags horizontal all day. Leicestershire won the toss and I was going to say, followed what has become standard practice, by putting Yorkshire into bat. Checking the scorecards in this morning's paper, however, I see that Notts and Derbyshire had elected to bat and in Derbyshire's case the move paid off.
Yorkshire started badly, losing three wickets for five runs at one point and before twelve struck were 33 for 3, more the result of poor shots rather than demons in the wicket.The crowd who neither in quantity nor mood could be described as 'festival', pulled their anoraks, fleeces and in some cases blankets, tighter round them and perhaps wondered why they had come. Enter Gale and Bairstow who brought us to 84 for 3 by lunch with a confidence that suggested a better afternoon. I had spent the morning in the company of Tony Hutton who used the interval to move his car and returned warmed by sausage and mash. Lucky man.
In the afternoon the Leicestershire bowling was made to look ordinary. Gale looked in particularly good touch and if Bairstow lived dangerously at times it at least generated warmth. One of his sixes just escaped the clutches of long leg, another nearly nailed one of the few inhabitants of the unpopular popular side, and a third threatened the retirement flats being constructed on the site of the demolished Cricketers' pub. Sea view on one side, cricket on the other, mmmm.......
The partnership was worth 160 when Gale followed a wide delivery from White and was caught behind. Ballance was caught off a top edged pull but McGrath joined Bairstow and their partnership was worth over a hundred when Yorkshire reached 329 for 5 at stumps. With Bresnan in next they find them selves with an opportunity to go past 400 this morning and establish a winning position.
Tony and I had kept abreast of the events at Weetwood described by Brian in his posting and when we left at tea thought it likely that we might well meet again at that venue today. Clare Frisby has just dampened my spirits with the promise of rain later but I'll go anyway.Looks as though I might pass Brian going the other way!
96 overs were bowled at Scarborough yesterday. No rain, no bad light, just a chilling wind blowing off Peasholm Park lake that kept the flags horizontal all day. Leicestershire won the toss and I was going to say, followed what has become standard practice, by putting Yorkshire into bat. Checking the scorecards in this morning's paper, however, I see that Notts and Derbyshire had elected to bat and in Derbyshire's case the move paid off.
Yorkshire started badly, losing three wickets for five runs at one point and before twelve struck were 33 for 3, more the result of poor shots rather than demons in the wicket.The crowd who neither in quantity nor mood could be described as 'festival', pulled their anoraks, fleeces and in some cases blankets, tighter round them and perhaps wondered why they had come. Enter Gale and Bairstow who brought us to 84 for 3 by lunch with a confidence that suggested a better afternoon. I had spent the morning in the company of Tony Hutton who used the interval to move his car and returned warmed by sausage and mash. Lucky man.
In the afternoon the Leicestershire bowling was made to look ordinary. Gale looked in particularly good touch and if Bairstow lived dangerously at times it at least generated warmth. One of his sixes just escaped the clutches of long leg, another nearly nailed one of the few inhabitants of the unpopular popular side, and a third threatened the retirement flats being constructed on the site of the demolished Cricketers' pub. Sea view on one side, cricket on the other, mmmm.......
The partnership was worth 160 when Gale followed a wide delivery from White and was caught behind. Ballance was caught off a top edged pull but McGrath joined Bairstow and their partnership was worth over a hundred when Yorkshire reached 329 for 5 at stumps. With Bresnan in next they find them selves with an opportunity to go past 400 this morning and establish a winning position.
Tony and I had kept abreast of the events at Weetwood described by Brian in his posting and when we left at tea thought it likely that we might well meet again at that venue today. Clare Frisby has just dampened my spirits with the promise of rain later but I'll go anyway.Looks as though I might pass Brian going the other way!
Wednesday 2 May 2012
WICKETS TUMBLE AT WEETWOOD
By Brian Sanderson,
This morning myself and Bob Procter sent off to Middleton Park in Leeds.The sun was shining which made a pleasent change.Recently I had purchased a photograph of Middleton Park C.C. in 1905 who were the winners of Yorkshire Central League.The club no longer play but we managed to find the pitch with a help of a 1920 map supplied by Friends of Middleton Park.It is situated next to the bowls club and next to the lake.
I will have to do some more research about the club to find out when it was established and when it finished.
More to come.
In the afternoon we went to Weetwood to see Leeds and Bradford University against Sussex.It was a friendly match although orginially was first class.Sussex were batting after the University had been bowled out for 164.
Sussex were 22 for 4 with Luke Reece taking all the wickets.After lunch Reech and Hardman bowled well getting Sussex all out for 58. At this time we were joined by Nigel Pullen who had been delayed due motoring problems.Reece took 7 for 21.In the Second Team Annual it states he plays for Lancashire Seconds and had scored 144 not out against Sussex last year.He is a excellent prospect and a pleasent person.
University started to loose wickets but had a good lead.The weather came coldier so decided to go home for tea and warmth. As I was leaving meet Tony Hutton who had been to Scarborough who said it was freezeng on the coast.I am going there to-morrow so will take hat and gloves.
This morning myself and Bob Procter sent off to Middleton Park in Leeds.The sun was shining which made a pleasent change.Recently I had purchased a photograph of Middleton Park C.C. in 1905 who were the winners of Yorkshire Central League.The club no longer play but we managed to find the pitch with a help of a 1920 map supplied by Friends of Middleton Park.It is situated next to the bowls club and next to the lake.
I will have to do some more research about the club to find out when it was established and when it finished.
More to come.
In the afternoon we went to Weetwood to see Leeds and Bradford University against Sussex.It was a friendly match although orginially was first class.Sussex were batting after the University had been bowled out for 164.
Sussex were 22 for 4 with Luke Reece taking all the wickets.After lunch Reech and Hardman bowled well getting Sussex all out for 58. At this time we were joined by Nigel Pullen who had been delayed due motoring problems.Reece took 7 for 21.In the Second Team Annual it states he plays for Lancashire Seconds and had scored 144 not out against Sussex last year.He is a excellent prospect and a pleasent person.
University started to loose wickets but had a good lead.The weather came coldier so decided to go home for tea and warmth. As I was leaving meet Tony Hutton who had been to Scarborough who said it was freezeng on the coast.I am going there to-morrow so will take hat and gloves.
Tuesday 1 May 2012
Bradford - Saturday
28 April
More Rain
A trip into Bradford with Dad.
First up Bradford Park Avenue, complete with majesterial mosque just opposite. There was cricket but the rain soon intervened and the Halifax League match - Wibsey Park Chapel v Bridgeholme - was interrupted.
Had a cup of tea and a wander and took some photos. Interesting memorabilia on the walls and great to see a famous old ground coming back to life.
My friend Keith Hudson was not out for Bridgeholme - but would he get back on?
Then to Idle, just nearby.
The game hasd been called off hours earlier but still a few punters in the clubhouse.
A nice ground with some impressive views. Well kept too.
Will the weather ever relent?
28 April
More Rain
A trip into Bradford with Dad.
First up Bradford Park Avenue, complete with majesterial mosque just opposite. There was cricket but the rain soon intervened and the Halifax League match - Wibsey Park Chapel v Bridgeholme - was interrupted.
Had a cup of tea and a wander and took some photos. Interesting memorabilia on the walls and great to see a famous old ground coming back to life.
My friend Keith Hudson was not out for Bridgeholme - but would he get back on?
Then to Idle, just nearby.
The game hasd been called off hours earlier but still a few punters in the clubhouse.
A nice ground with some impressive views. Well kept too.
Will the weather ever relent?
Friday
Taunton - Somerset v Lancashire
More Rain
A while too since I'd been to Taunton but when you're down in the West Country, why not?
Got there early and had some breakfast in the town centre, which is so close to the ground. You get the feel that the cricket ground, and cricket in general, dominates the town.
An unhelpful steward said I couldn't enter the ground till 10am - a real jobsworth!
The game started on time with Lancashire losing a lot of early wickets. But then it started to rain - surprise, surprise.
So I sat inside the pavilion, had a cup of tea and then dined in the splendid new dining area.
Visited the club shop and had a wander.
Then home up north with no resumption likely.
Taunton - Somerset v Lancashire
More Rain
A while too since I'd been to Taunton but when you're down in the West Country, why not?
Got there early and had some breakfast in the town centre, which is so close to the ground. You get the feel that the cricket ground, and cricket in general, dominates the town.
An unhelpful steward said I couldn't enter the ground till 10am - a real jobsworth!
The game started on time with Lancashire losing a lot of early wickets. But then it started to rain - surprise, surprise.
So I sat inside the pavilion, had a cup of tea and then dined in the splendid new dining area.
Visited the club shop and had a wander.
Then home up north with no resumption likely.
Thursday 26 April - Bristol
Gloucs v Glamorgan
More Rain
A trip down south. Always like Bristol because I can go for a drink with my good friend Keith Dockray - an ex-colleague from the University of Huddersfield.
So arrived at the ground mid-afternoon but rain had been in the air and there was nothing doing in the middle. So I visited the club shop and had a cup of tea in the pavilion. A while since I've been to Bristol but all very neat and tidy with some new stands around the ground.
The day's play was called off just after I arrived so I wandered back to my nearby B&B. All very pleasant. Then out to meet Keith in a pub near the cricket ground actually. He's no cricket fan but he's very entertaining!
Gloucs v Glamorgan
More Rain
A trip down south. Always like Bristol because I can go for a drink with my good friend Keith Dockray - an ex-colleague from the University of Huddersfield.
So arrived at the ground mid-afternoon but rain had been in the air and there was nothing doing in the middle. So I visited the club shop and had a cup of tea in the pavilion. A while since I've been to Bristol but all very neat and tidy with some new stands around the ground.
The day's play was called off just after I arrived so I wandered back to my nearby B&B. All very pleasant. Then out to meet Keith in a pub near the cricket ground actually. He's no cricket fan but he's very entertaining!
Harrogate
Yorkshire 2nd XI
Another - yet another - washout!
Travelled to Harrogate by train for Yoerkshire's 2nd XI game but when I arrived there was nothing doing. A couple of groundsmen working hard but no players and certainly no cricket.
All very disappointing - again - so I had a sit in the sun.
Then wandered into the bar and had a brief chat with the barman. Then a sit-down and I took a few photos of the ground. All very pleasant. Then a taxi back to the train station.
Yorkshire 2nd XI
Another - yet another - washout!
Travelled to Harrogate by train for Yoerkshire's 2nd XI game but when I arrived there was nothing doing. A couple of groundsmen working hard but no players and certainly no cricket.
All very disappointing - again - so I had a sit in the sun.
Then wandered into the bar and had a brief chat with the barman. Then a sit-down and I took a few photos of the ground. All very pleasant. Then a taxi back to the train station.
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