3rd XI Season 2017
Saturday 22nd April 2017, Catford Wanderers
ODCuaco 3's 183/7 (40 overs) lost to Catford Wanderers 2's 184/7 (37.2) by 3 wickets
The first weekend of the season and incredible availability for ODCuaco meaning an extra friendly was hastily arranged with Catford Wanderers CC. A brief discussion between skippers and it was agreed that ODC would bat first.
New opening bat Shehryah Gul opened up with Pete White and both found boundaries easy to come by with the score rattling along nicely. Gul (14) lost his wicket with a loose shot but Luke Hunter came in to shore things up and put on almost 50 with White before the tiniest of edges saw him depart. A flurry of wickets followed with R East (0), G Smedley (9), B Rouse (1) and Russell Newell (4) coming and going. In the middle of all that White reached his fifty before being run out - a score of 71 a nice way to start the season. ODC needed a decent finish to be competitive and Will East and debutant Imran Gill provided just that - putting on 68 in the last few overs with Gill being particularly brutal in his 46 not out. East finished on 18 not out and both of these players could be a snip in fantasy league this season - watch this space! The only disappointment for the huge crowd of Homebase shoppers was that Hider and Hall were left stranded by the pavilion all padded up with nowhere to go.
So a competitive total of 183 posted and it was game on. The Catford number 1 was slightly unorthodox but mightily effective with anything that wasn't hitting middle stump being smashed across to the leg side. After a tight opening spell from Hall, Rouse came in and took the first wicket of the day, clean bowling the number 2. The first wicket was down but the Wanderers were right up with the run rate with anything loose being punished. Hider bowled increasingly well and economically for 8 overs wherupon Gill then came on and took his first wicket for the club, clean bowling the number 3 before Will East took out the Wanderers dangerman with the aid of a juggling Hunter. With runs coming all too easily ODC had to take wickets and Gill carried on from his superb batting performance by ripping out the middle order, three more clean bowled with Gul helping out by showing Hunter how to truly juggle. All this time though the number 4 was looking class and leading his team towards the target. A sharp chance off the bowling of Rouse was put down by the skipper and really that was that. Wanderers were home by two wickets but a great way to start the season with a really competitive game full of encouraging performances. This season could be a cracker!
ODCuaco 3's 183/7 (40 overs) lost to Catford Wanderers 2's 184/7 (37.2) by 3 wickets
The first weekend of the season and incredible availability for ODCuaco meaning an extra friendly was hastily arranged with Catford Wanderers CC. A brief discussion between skippers and it was agreed that ODC would bat first.
New opening bat Shehryah Gul opened up with Pete White and both found boundaries easy to come by with the score rattling along nicely. Gul (14) lost his wicket with a loose shot but Luke Hunter came in to shore things up and put on almost 50 with White before the tiniest of edges saw him depart. A flurry of wickets followed with R East (0), G Smedley (9), B Rouse (1) and Russell Newell (4) coming and going. In the middle of all that White reached his fifty before being run out - a score of 71 a nice way to start the season. ODC needed a decent finish to be competitive and Will East and debutant Imran Gill provided just that - putting on 68 in the last few overs with Gill being particularly brutal in his 46 not out. East finished on 18 not out and both of these players could be a snip in fantasy league this season - watch this space! The only disappointment for the huge crowd of Homebase shoppers was that Hider and Hall were left stranded by the pavilion all padded up with nowhere to go.
So a competitive total of 183 posted and it was game on. The Catford number 1 was slightly unorthodox but mightily effective with anything that wasn't hitting middle stump being smashed across to the leg side. After a tight opening spell from Hall, Rouse came in and took the first wicket of the day, clean bowling the number 2. The first wicket was down but the Wanderers were right up with the run rate with anything loose being punished. Hider bowled increasingly well and economically for 8 overs wherupon Gill then came on and took his first wicket for the club, clean bowling the number 3 before Will East took out the Wanderers dangerman with the aid of a juggling Hunter. With runs coming all too easily ODC had to take wickets and Gill carried on from his superb batting performance by ripping out the middle order, three more clean bowled with Gul helping out by showing Hunter how to truly juggle. All this time though the number 4 was looking class and leading his team towards the target. A sharp chance off the bowling of Rouse was put down by the skipper and really that was that. Wanderers were home by two wickets but a great way to start the season with a really competitive game full of encouraging performances. This season could be a cracker!
Saturday 29th April 2017, Catford & Cyphers Home
ODCuaco 3rd XI 304/3 (40 overs) beat Catford & Cyphers 4th XI 118 all out (33 overs)
New bat Shehryah Gul opened up with Sam Devaux and they progressed serenely to 44 for no wicket after 10 overs. I can’t really find words to describe the next 30 overs but I guess total and complete devastation would just about cover it. Gul made the most of being dropped twice by then proceeding to smash anything short to the boundary and beyond and rapidly advanced to 50 to the delight of his watching Minions, some of whom had travelled all the way from Birmingham just to see him bat. He then rapidly advanced to a hundred – the first ever for the 3’s in Play Cricket history – what a start to his ODC career!
Devaux then got in on the act and scored his first ever senior 50 for ODCuaco with a chance less innings in front of the Devaux clan – what a proud moment for all concerned and no doubt the first of many Sam. They both then finally realised it was a friendly and surrendered their wickets in order to (finally) let the rest of the team have a bat.
If the opposition were glad to see the back of these two after a stand of 159 it was short lived. Liam Osborne batted as steadily as ever while another new find – Elliot Peters – decided he was Ian Botham reborn and opened up, moving to his first ever 50 off of about three balls. This innings included one hit over the trees and stream that ended up by our nets next to the pavilion – insane.
Elliot then saw sense and missed a straight one bringing Henry Hamilton to the crease and he and Liam decided to further up the total by continuing to wallop the ball all over the place. After 40 overs the score was an incredible (and mildly embarrassing 304) with the skipper having to explain to his batsmen that in a friendly you should kindly give your wicket away and let everyone have a bat.
The tea, prepared by new signing Joan was excellent. I particularly enjoyed the ‘take a break’ bars as I thought they were not longer in production – what a lovely surprise and well worth the tea money. Joan – if you can find any Curly Wurly’s for this week that would be great. I also quite miss ‘secret’ bars.
I’ll keep the bowling report short and sweet. Steve Sawko and Imran Gill opened up and bowled very tidy though wicketless opening spells. Hamilton then came on with Idnan Dean (Imran’s mate) and between them they began to make inroads. Dean took two wickets and bowled at a pace not seen on the Warren for some years – apparently it was quicker than the skipper so I’m guessing around 85mph at least. Hamilton was the star though taking three wickets in his four overs before replacing Newell as keeper at drinks. Worth noting that Steve Smith fielded superbly, with some very impressive tekkers stopping a certain boundary.
Peters and Devaux were next up with Peters being unlucky with a dropped catch denying him a wicket. Gul and Hall then came on and took two wickets each with Gul also showing off his Maria Sharapova impression to confuse the batsmen. Hall’s second wicket brought another classic moment as Hamilton took (possibly) the greatest catch seen behind the stumps at the Warren off the bowling of the impressively fast Hall. It was time for the death bowler to finish things and Sawko performed to instruction by returning to take the 10th and final wicket. Job done. Joan was Man of the Match.
ODCuaco 3rd XI 304/3 (40 overs) beat Catford & Cyphers 4th XI 118 all out (33 overs)
New bat Shehryah Gul opened up with Sam Devaux and they progressed serenely to 44 for no wicket after 10 overs. I can’t really find words to describe the next 30 overs but I guess total and complete devastation would just about cover it. Gul made the most of being dropped twice by then proceeding to smash anything short to the boundary and beyond and rapidly advanced to 50 to the delight of his watching Minions, some of whom had travelled all the way from Birmingham just to see him bat. He then rapidly advanced to a hundred – the first ever for the 3’s in Play Cricket history – what a start to his ODC career!
Devaux then got in on the act and scored his first ever senior 50 for ODCuaco with a chance less innings in front of the Devaux clan – what a proud moment for all concerned and no doubt the first of many Sam. They both then finally realised it was a friendly and surrendered their wickets in order to (finally) let the rest of the team have a bat.
If the opposition were glad to see the back of these two after a stand of 159 it was short lived. Liam Osborne batted as steadily as ever while another new find – Elliot Peters – decided he was Ian Botham reborn and opened up, moving to his first ever 50 off of about three balls. This innings included one hit over the trees and stream that ended up by our nets next to the pavilion – insane.
Elliot then saw sense and missed a straight one bringing Henry Hamilton to the crease and he and Liam decided to further up the total by continuing to wallop the ball all over the place. After 40 overs the score was an incredible (and mildly embarrassing 304) with the skipper having to explain to his batsmen that in a friendly you should kindly give your wicket away and let everyone have a bat.
The tea, prepared by new signing Joan was excellent. I particularly enjoyed the ‘take a break’ bars as I thought they were not longer in production – what a lovely surprise and well worth the tea money. Joan – if you can find any Curly Wurly’s for this week that would be great. I also quite miss ‘secret’ bars.
I’ll keep the bowling report short and sweet. Steve Sawko and Imran Gill opened up and bowled very tidy though wicketless opening spells. Hamilton then came on with Idnan Dean (Imran’s mate) and between them they began to make inroads. Dean took two wickets and bowled at a pace not seen on the Warren for some years – apparently it was quicker than the skipper so I’m guessing around 85mph at least. Hamilton was the star though taking three wickets in his four overs before replacing Newell as keeper at drinks. Worth noting that Steve Smith fielded superbly, with some very impressive tekkers stopping a certain boundary.
Peters and Devaux were next up with Peters being unlucky with a dropped catch denying him a wicket. Gul and Hall then came on and took two wickets each with Gul also showing off his Maria Sharapova impression to confuse the batsmen. Hall’s second wicket brought another classic moment as Hamilton took (possibly) the greatest catch seen behind the stumps at the Warren off the bowling of the impressively fast Hall. It was time for the death bowler to finish things and Sawko performed to instruction by returning to take the 10th and final wicket. Job done. Joan was Man of the Match.
Saturday 6th May 2017, Chislehurst & West Kent Away
ODCuaco 3rd XI 187/5(39.3 overs) beat Chislehurst & West Kent 3rd XI 186/7 (40) by 5 wickets
So the league season begins and a game against a fellow promoted side from last season so a great chance to get off to a winning start. In truth this was a much changed side from last season with a nervous kind of silence before the game of a team that didn’t really know each other!
However it wasn’t going to stay quiet for long and having won the toss the skipper gave some early cheer by enticing the opposition captain into a loose drive into the waiting hand of Mark Coles at first slip. A few overs later the skipper totally lost the ball and a straightforward chance was put down but Harry Deans saved the skippers blushes by destroying the stumps next ball! Two tidy spells came to an end with Bill Long and Steve Sawko taking over bowling duties. Long took out the oppo’s opener with a C&B and the new man did not last long, Coles with another catch at slip. Two became three after an economical spell from the ever reliable Sawko with Ben Smith catching the edge and Coles the ball. ODCuaco were on top. Dan Evans though had other ideas and he began brutally smashing everything bowled at him and though Deans came back take a third wicket the runs could not be stopped. A late wicket from Deans was taken with an excellent and well judged stumping from Newell (well, a ricochet off his legs anyway) but Chislehurst had set a whopping 187 to win.
At this point it’s worth noting that the chocolate brownie served at tea was simply superb.
In this league you don’t chase that kind of total down and with Elliot Peters (4) and Mark Coles (5) departing early ODC were in trouble. Ben Stuart and new colt Dan Murrell were at the crease and what a partnership – 65 runs in all steadying the ship and almost making it to drinks before Stuart was caught. Mark Whittle came in and continued the steady yet unspectacular run scoring with the increasingly confident Murrell. With ten overs left it was high time to attack and the order went out for Whittle to do just that. He spanked some rapid runs before departing bowled for 23 ( a super innings Mark) bringing Long to the crease. Murrell reached his 50 in front of his proud parents and team mates and with Long finding his range the chase was on. Murrell then was bowled bringing the skipper to the crease with 30 required and not much time to get them. Hall did his job though, getting off strike and leaving the big hitting Long to power the visitors into the match. The fielding side were looking nervous and rightly so with suddenly only three runs required from the final over. A third ball boundary finished it for ODC with Long 41 not out and Hall the best 5 not out of his career.
A backs to the wall victory and ODC are up and running with some exciting new players. Streatham next up at the fortress that is the Warren – our average score at home so far this season is 304 so watch out!
ODCuaco 3rd XI 187/5(39.3 overs) beat Chislehurst & West Kent 3rd XI 186/7 (40) by 5 wickets
So the league season begins and a game against a fellow promoted side from last season so a great chance to get off to a winning start. In truth this was a much changed side from last season with a nervous kind of silence before the game of a team that didn’t really know each other!
However it wasn’t going to stay quiet for long and having won the toss the skipper gave some early cheer by enticing the opposition captain into a loose drive into the waiting hand of Mark Coles at first slip. A few overs later the skipper totally lost the ball and a straightforward chance was put down but Harry Deans saved the skippers blushes by destroying the stumps next ball! Two tidy spells came to an end with Bill Long and Steve Sawko taking over bowling duties. Long took out the oppo’s opener with a C&B and the new man did not last long, Coles with another catch at slip. Two became three after an economical spell from the ever reliable Sawko with Ben Smith catching the edge and Coles the ball. ODCuaco were on top. Dan Evans though had other ideas and he began brutally smashing everything bowled at him and though Deans came back take a third wicket the runs could not be stopped. A late wicket from Deans was taken with an excellent and well judged stumping from Newell (well, a ricochet off his legs anyway) but Chislehurst had set a whopping 187 to win.
At this point it’s worth noting that the chocolate brownie served at tea was simply superb.
In this league you don’t chase that kind of total down and with Elliot Peters (4) and Mark Coles (5) departing early ODC were in trouble. Ben Stuart and new colt Dan Murrell were at the crease and what a partnership – 65 runs in all steadying the ship and almost making it to drinks before Stuart was caught. Mark Whittle came in and continued the steady yet unspectacular run scoring with the increasingly confident Murrell. With ten overs left it was high time to attack and the order went out for Whittle to do just that. He spanked some rapid runs before departing bowled for 23 ( a super innings Mark) bringing Long to the crease. Murrell reached his 50 in front of his proud parents and team mates and with Long finding his range the chase was on. Murrell then was bowled bringing the skipper to the crease with 30 required and not much time to get them. Hall did his job though, getting off strike and leaving the big hitting Long to power the visitors into the match. The fielding side were looking nervous and rightly so with suddenly only three runs required from the final over. A third ball boundary finished it for ODC with Long 41 not out and Hall the best 5 not out of his career.
A backs to the wall victory and ODC are up and running with some exciting new players. Streatham next up at the fortress that is the Warren – our average score at home so far this season is 304 so watch out!
Saturday 13th May 2017, Streatham & Marlborough Home
ODCuaco 3rd XI 147/7 (38.1 overs) bt Streatham & Marlborough 5's 146/9 (40 overs) by 3 wickets
Well it was all set up for a glorious days weather and a fearsome 3rd XI performance with the team looking strong. A super looking batting line up had the skipper tempted to bat first but having won the toss elected to bowl on an overcast and mildly damp wicket. Early inroads were made with Hall taking an early wicket with a catch from Luke Hunter which was then backed up by Deans castling the number 3 - S&M were 16/2. A brief recovery was ended when Eric Clemming took his first league wicket for OD's and though the wickets weren't coming thick and fast Bill Long and Clemming were keeping the run rate fairly tight. However with the visitors approaching the hundred mark with wickets in hand anything could happen and the skipper threw the ball to Shehryah Gul for a bit of spin. A lively first over followed and first ball of the next the wicket came, Hall taking a sharp catch at midwicket. The S&M top scorer was then bowled by Gul and with the skipper coming back on he shifted Gul to the bottom end - inspired. An incredible four more wickets fell to Gul aided with catches by Osborne and Newell and though Streatham had added some valuable runs a score of 146 never looked enough. Gul finished with 6-30 from 8 overs.
A relaxed ODC enjoyed their tea with a straight forward victory ahead of them and though no curly wurly's or secret bars had been found more take a break bars ensured the skipper was kept happy.
ODC needed someone to dig in but as previously said batting on the Warren is not easy. Having serenely progressed to 39 without loss De Vaux (13) was well caught low in the the slips with Coles (17) following a couple of balls later mistiming a hit square of the wicket. ODC now 39 for 2. Osborne (5) and Murrell (22) recovered but then followed the opening pair in losing their wickets together. Gul came in and began to play sensibly and straight while Hunter and Clemming didn't trouble the scorers and ODC were now in deep something at 76/6. Long (12) added some useful runs with Gul but was then caught and the oppo were now seriously interested with ODC needing 50 odd to win.
The first mistake though was assuming that our number 9 couldn't bat. After Russ Newell punched two fours through the ring the oppo's skipper moved the field out again. Gul and Newell nurdled run after run and the target became smaller. By now the crowd at the Warren was sensational with (to quote Andy De Vaux) more spectators than attend county cricket games. The ODC family were roaring the super 3's to victory and with 11 balls to spare Newell (31 not out) pierced the in field and finished it off, Gul left on 25 not out with Deans and Hall no doubt happy to have watched from the boundary with pads on! Special thanks for Steve Sawko for umpiring.
This team know how to dig in and win games, more of this to come please chaps. Everyone contributes during these tight games, every run scored or saved is massive. Two games, two wins. Next up NatWest who are 3rd to our 2nd - top of the table clash - bring it on.
ODCuaco 3rd XI 147/7 (38.1 overs) bt Streatham & Marlborough 5's 146/9 (40 overs) by 3 wickets
Well it was all set up for a glorious days weather and a fearsome 3rd XI performance with the team looking strong. A super looking batting line up had the skipper tempted to bat first but having won the toss elected to bowl on an overcast and mildly damp wicket. Early inroads were made with Hall taking an early wicket with a catch from Luke Hunter which was then backed up by Deans castling the number 3 - S&M were 16/2. A brief recovery was ended when Eric Clemming took his first league wicket for OD's and though the wickets weren't coming thick and fast Bill Long and Clemming were keeping the run rate fairly tight. However with the visitors approaching the hundred mark with wickets in hand anything could happen and the skipper threw the ball to Shehryah Gul for a bit of spin. A lively first over followed and first ball of the next the wicket came, Hall taking a sharp catch at midwicket. The S&M top scorer was then bowled by Gul and with the skipper coming back on he shifted Gul to the bottom end - inspired. An incredible four more wickets fell to Gul aided with catches by Osborne and Newell and though Streatham had added some valuable runs a score of 146 never looked enough. Gul finished with 6-30 from 8 overs.
A relaxed ODC enjoyed their tea with a straight forward victory ahead of them and though no curly wurly's or secret bars had been found more take a break bars ensured the skipper was kept happy.
ODC needed someone to dig in but as previously said batting on the Warren is not easy. Having serenely progressed to 39 without loss De Vaux (13) was well caught low in the the slips with Coles (17) following a couple of balls later mistiming a hit square of the wicket. ODC now 39 for 2. Osborne (5) and Murrell (22) recovered but then followed the opening pair in losing their wickets together. Gul came in and began to play sensibly and straight while Hunter and Clemming didn't trouble the scorers and ODC were now in deep something at 76/6. Long (12) added some useful runs with Gul but was then caught and the oppo were now seriously interested with ODC needing 50 odd to win.
The first mistake though was assuming that our number 9 couldn't bat. After Russ Newell punched two fours through the ring the oppo's skipper moved the field out again. Gul and Newell nurdled run after run and the target became smaller. By now the crowd at the Warren was sensational with (to quote Andy De Vaux) more spectators than attend county cricket games. The ODC family were roaring the super 3's to victory and with 11 balls to spare Newell (31 not out) pierced the in field and finished it off, Gul left on 25 not out with Deans and Hall no doubt happy to have watched from the boundary with pads on! Special thanks for Steve Sawko for umpiring.
This team know how to dig in and win games, more of this to come please chaps. Everyone contributes during these tight games, every run scored or saved is massive. Two games, two wins. Next up NatWest who are 3rd to our 2nd - top of the table clash - bring it on.
Saturday 20th May 2017, Natwest Away
ODCuaco 3rd XI 49/1 (14.1 overs) beat Natwest 1st XI 47 all out (26.2 overs) by 9 wickets
So, on paper you could argue this was one of the strongest line ups the ODCuaco 3rd XI had ever fielded, with great availability throughout the club seeing Simon Henley, Joe East, John McLaughlin and Dan Baylis all coming down from above and Henry Hamilton and Sam Parke returning. With the weather threatening and a brief shower before the start the ideal was win the toss and bowl and the ODC skipper called correctly. Baylis and Hall bowled the first 11 overs between them and though many just missed the outside edge or the stumps Natwest reached this stage without loss but with barely a run to show for it. Joe East took over at the top end and an ill disciplined charge down the track saw the first wicket fall - bowled - and ODC were away. East's next over saw another wicket fall - snaffled by Mark Coles' safe hands at slip. The third pair for Natwest put on a recovery of sort but still the run rate was low with Simon Henley impressively economical. The score had moved on to 43 for two when the next wicket fell and this is when the carnage began.
Henley bowled the oppo's 4 & 5 and then the moment of the match. A full ball was smashed back towards Henley who flicked his leg out to stop it and succeeded only in diverting it into the covers where John McLaughlin, no doubt inspired by the arrival of his lady, took a full length dive to catch the ball. The batsman was not happy with his misfortune. A further diving catch from McLaughlin saw East take his 3rd wicket before Henley took his 4th aided by a catch from Sam Parke. Baylis returned and took the 8th wicket with Henley producing a smart catch before Henley made it 5-fer by bowing the last man. The final 7 (10 men only) wickets had fallen for just 4 runs. The ODC fielding was exemplary with Murrell and De Vaux particularly impressive.
Tea wasn't ready so ODC went out determined to put the game to bed. The first over saw De Vaux falling to a corker of a ball with Coles joining McLaughlin at the crease. The pair effortlessly guided ODC to victory with McLaughlin 21 n/o and Coles 24 n/o. Apologies to those who didn't get much of a game.
So a clinical victory and maximum points for ODC who now head the league table following three wins from three, coupled with LESSA's loss to Old Wilsonians. Next up at home are Old Wilsonians - a big game against our local rivals.
ODCuaco 3rd XI 49/1 (14.1 overs) beat Natwest 1st XI 47 all out (26.2 overs) by 9 wickets
So, on paper you could argue this was one of the strongest line ups the ODCuaco 3rd XI had ever fielded, with great availability throughout the club seeing Simon Henley, Joe East, John McLaughlin and Dan Baylis all coming down from above and Henry Hamilton and Sam Parke returning. With the weather threatening and a brief shower before the start the ideal was win the toss and bowl and the ODC skipper called correctly. Baylis and Hall bowled the first 11 overs between them and though many just missed the outside edge or the stumps Natwest reached this stage without loss but with barely a run to show for it. Joe East took over at the top end and an ill disciplined charge down the track saw the first wicket fall - bowled - and ODC were away. East's next over saw another wicket fall - snaffled by Mark Coles' safe hands at slip. The third pair for Natwest put on a recovery of sort but still the run rate was low with Simon Henley impressively economical. The score had moved on to 43 for two when the next wicket fell and this is when the carnage began.
Henley bowled the oppo's 4 & 5 and then the moment of the match. A full ball was smashed back towards Henley who flicked his leg out to stop it and succeeded only in diverting it into the covers where John McLaughlin, no doubt inspired by the arrival of his lady, took a full length dive to catch the ball. The batsman was not happy with his misfortune. A further diving catch from McLaughlin saw East take his 3rd wicket before Henley took his 4th aided by a catch from Sam Parke. Baylis returned and took the 8th wicket with Henley producing a smart catch before Henley made it 5-fer by bowing the last man. The final 7 (10 men only) wickets had fallen for just 4 runs. The ODC fielding was exemplary with Murrell and De Vaux particularly impressive.
Tea wasn't ready so ODC went out determined to put the game to bed. The first over saw De Vaux falling to a corker of a ball with Coles joining McLaughlin at the crease. The pair effortlessly guided ODC to victory with McLaughlin 21 n/o and Coles 24 n/o. Apologies to those who didn't get much of a game.
So a clinical victory and maximum points for ODC who now head the league table following three wins from three, coupled with LESSA's loss to Old Wilsonians. Next up at home are Old Wilsonians - a big game against our local rivals.
Saturday 27th May 2017, Old Wilsonians Home
ODCuaco 3rd XI 225/3 (38.2overs) beat Old Wilsonians 4th XI 223/8 (40 overs) by 7 wickets
Wow. Incredible. Ridiculous. What a match.
So the skipper lost the toss and OW’s put themselves into bat. Deans took a wicket with his first ball and that was followed up by a sharp run out from Murrell/Hamilton and OW’s were looking in early trouble. A recovery of sorts was had but with the score moving slowly nothing for ODC to worry about. Henley, having replaced Deans, bowled the dangerous looking leftie and Hall finally took a wicket in his final over and bowled his 10 overs for 20 runs so at drinks ODC were feeling confident. Old Wilsonians though had other ideas and counter attacked, finding the boundaries freely and the score rapidly increased. Stuart extracted some decent turn but the batsmen were brutal and Gul came on to receive the same treatment. A huge stand of 126 was finally ended with Gul and Osborne combining for both batsmen and Gul took two further wickets to at least give ODC some bonus points – Hamilton took a good stumping. Old Wilsonians had set a mammoth 223.
You don’t chase down scores like that in 40 over cricket….do you? The ODC skipper was confident and opposition teams should have learnt by now not to write this team off. Gul and De Vaux opened up and what a start with De Vaux crashing early boundaries off of the seamers. Once Gul had played himself in he joined the party and the score had reached 104 before Gul was caught behind – a great partnership and the second 100+ stand in a row from this pair. De Vaux reached his 50 after a couple of big blows including a huge six to the square leg boundary before being caught out but spirits were now up and the OW’s fielding was becoming ragged. Liam Osborne was out first ball trying to move the score on bringing Luke Hunter to the crease. He and Dan Murrell played themselves in well but the run rate was increasing and OW’s were again in the ascendancy. With the crowd increasing with all other games being completed this pair were roared on by their ODC brothers and sisters for one last ditch attack. 50 runs were required from the last six overs and Murrell passed 50 in the 36th with 21 being added to the total in that same over – game changer. Every run was being met with glee from the watching crowd and with 9 balls to go Murrell smashed the ball back to where it came for four and the game was won. Incredibly the margin of victory was a huge seven wickets. The skipper was exhausted.
Murrell finished on 62 not out with Hunter on 33 and the partnership 98. This is the sort of victory you never forget and again shows how important every run saved or scored is in these tight games. Early estimates suggest that there was a three figure crowd by the end of it – in years to come this number will no doubt increase! Thanks in particular to Martin Couch for umpiring.
ODCuaco 3rd XI 225/3 (38.2overs) beat Old Wilsonians 4th XI 223/8 (40 overs) by 7 wickets
Wow. Incredible. Ridiculous. What a match.
So the skipper lost the toss and OW’s put themselves into bat. Deans took a wicket with his first ball and that was followed up by a sharp run out from Murrell/Hamilton and OW’s were looking in early trouble. A recovery of sorts was had but with the score moving slowly nothing for ODC to worry about. Henley, having replaced Deans, bowled the dangerous looking leftie and Hall finally took a wicket in his final over and bowled his 10 overs for 20 runs so at drinks ODC were feeling confident. Old Wilsonians though had other ideas and counter attacked, finding the boundaries freely and the score rapidly increased. Stuart extracted some decent turn but the batsmen were brutal and Gul came on to receive the same treatment. A huge stand of 126 was finally ended with Gul and Osborne combining for both batsmen and Gul took two further wickets to at least give ODC some bonus points – Hamilton took a good stumping. Old Wilsonians had set a mammoth 223.
You don’t chase down scores like that in 40 over cricket….do you? The ODC skipper was confident and opposition teams should have learnt by now not to write this team off. Gul and De Vaux opened up and what a start with De Vaux crashing early boundaries off of the seamers. Once Gul had played himself in he joined the party and the score had reached 104 before Gul was caught behind – a great partnership and the second 100+ stand in a row from this pair. De Vaux reached his 50 after a couple of big blows including a huge six to the square leg boundary before being caught out but spirits were now up and the OW’s fielding was becoming ragged. Liam Osborne was out first ball trying to move the score on bringing Luke Hunter to the crease. He and Dan Murrell played themselves in well but the run rate was increasing and OW’s were again in the ascendancy. With the crowd increasing with all other games being completed this pair were roared on by their ODC brothers and sisters for one last ditch attack. 50 runs were required from the last six overs and Murrell passed 50 in the 36th with 21 being added to the total in that same over – game changer. Every run was being met with glee from the watching crowd and with 9 balls to go Murrell smashed the ball back to where it came for four and the game was won. Incredibly the margin of victory was a huge seven wickets. The skipper was exhausted.
Murrell finished on 62 not out with Hunter on 33 and the partnership 98. This is the sort of victory you never forget and again shows how important every run saved or scored is in these tight games. Early estimates suggest that there was a three figure crowd by the end of it – in years to come this number will no doubt increase! Thanks in particular to Martin Couch for umpiring.
Saturday 10th June 2017, Blackheath Away
ODCuaco 3rd XI 108/10 (37.4 overs) bt Blackheath 7th XI 91/10 (29.2)
After some fearsome batting displays in recent weeks the ODC line up was without any of the De Vaux/Coles/Murrell/Gul quartet and needed one or two to step forward and get some runs. Unfortunately, on a difficult pitch and having lost the toss, we weren't able to build any momentum with regular wickets falling and the run rate slow. We should mention Kevan Harding and Luke Hunter for hanging around and building the score up and also Mike Parr for his 3 ball cameo that ultimately proved decisive - 6, 4, and Out. Russell Newell (29) was the only batsman that looked comfortable and special mention to the skipper for a brainless shot to finish off the innings. I think we'll leave our innings at that.
Tea was ridiculous. Bacon rolls, strawberries and cream, lovely sandwiches....all-in-all delightful. Best tea of the season? Probably.
So, could ODC rally and fightback? Blackheath had plenty of chat and plenty of overs to score just 109 to win. Early wickets were needed to make a game of it and Baylis struck in the 6th over inducing a fine edge caught well by Newell. His next over saw middle stump knocked clean out of the ground and when Hall got in on the act with a plumb LBW Blackheath were wobbling at 10 for 3 wickets. A recovery of sorts saw the score up to 30 and Baylis and Hall were replaced by Bill Long and Will East. East struck 3rd ball with a plumb LBW and one run later his Dad Robin took a catch for Will's 2nd wicket - Blackheath now 31 for 5!
Drinks came and went with Dan Brown leading the final team talk and almost straightaway East struck again - clean bowled. With 50 required Blackheath had to keep their cool but failed to do so in testing out Baylis' arm and failing - a run out for the 7th wicket. Morrison now came in and what a pleasure it was to get him out - a wild slog high into the air held by the bowler East with a controlled Baylis resisting the opportunity of giving a send off - class! Tobin hung around but with the score up to 87 slogged across the line and East had his 5th wicket and second caught & bowled - a dream if he was in your fantasy team! 22 runs to go, loads of overs but only one wicket - could ODC get home? Of course they could, Long being rewarded for a great spell of bowling with Baylis taking the catch. This was a fantastic fielding effort from all concerned, every run fought for with ODC winning by 17 runs.
Will East bowled like a superstar and finished with 5-25. Wow.
So amazingly ODC had won - again showing a total inability to know when they are beaten. Six wins out of six and top of the table. No game next week so next up in a fortnight a home game against Roan and Lambethians.
ODCuaco 3rd XI 108/10 (37.4 overs) bt Blackheath 7th XI 91/10 (29.2)
After some fearsome batting displays in recent weeks the ODC line up was without any of the De Vaux/Coles/Murrell/Gul quartet and needed one or two to step forward and get some runs. Unfortunately, on a difficult pitch and having lost the toss, we weren't able to build any momentum with regular wickets falling and the run rate slow. We should mention Kevan Harding and Luke Hunter for hanging around and building the score up and also Mike Parr for his 3 ball cameo that ultimately proved decisive - 6, 4, and Out. Russell Newell (29) was the only batsman that looked comfortable and special mention to the skipper for a brainless shot to finish off the innings. I think we'll leave our innings at that.
Tea was ridiculous. Bacon rolls, strawberries and cream, lovely sandwiches....all-in-all delightful. Best tea of the season? Probably.
So, could ODC rally and fightback? Blackheath had plenty of chat and plenty of overs to score just 109 to win. Early wickets were needed to make a game of it and Baylis struck in the 6th over inducing a fine edge caught well by Newell. His next over saw middle stump knocked clean out of the ground and when Hall got in on the act with a plumb LBW Blackheath were wobbling at 10 for 3 wickets. A recovery of sorts saw the score up to 30 and Baylis and Hall were replaced by Bill Long and Will East. East struck 3rd ball with a plumb LBW and one run later his Dad Robin took a catch for Will's 2nd wicket - Blackheath now 31 for 5!
Drinks came and went with Dan Brown leading the final team talk and almost straightaway East struck again - clean bowled. With 50 required Blackheath had to keep their cool but failed to do so in testing out Baylis' arm and failing - a run out for the 7th wicket. Morrison now came in and what a pleasure it was to get him out - a wild slog high into the air held by the bowler East with a controlled Baylis resisting the opportunity of giving a send off - class! Tobin hung around but with the score up to 87 slogged across the line and East had his 5th wicket and second caught & bowled - a dream if he was in your fantasy team! 22 runs to go, loads of overs but only one wicket - could ODC get home? Of course they could, Long being rewarded for a great spell of bowling with Baylis taking the catch. This was a fantastic fielding effort from all concerned, every run fought for with ODC winning by 17 runs.
Will East bowled like a superstar and finished with 5-25. Wow.
So amazingly ODC had won - again showing a total inability to know when they are beaten. Six wins out of six and top of the table. No game next week so next up in a fortnight a home game against Roan and Lambethians.
Saturday 24th June 2017, Roan & Lambethans Home
ODCuaco 3rd XI 163/5 (40 overs) lost to Roan & Lambethians 164/9 (39.3) by one wicket
Could the unbeaten league run go on from the mighty 3's? The skipper started off poorly again, losing the 4th toss in a row and ODC were put into bat.
Things got worse when the bowling started and the ball was jumping around off a length. McLaughlin, Coles and De Vaux all went cheaply (1 each) and after 10 overs ODC had about 5 runs on the board for 3 wickets down. Disaster loomed. Luke Hunter (20) and Michael Parr (18) though led a recovery of sorts but by the time both had departed ODC were still only 49 runs to the good with not many overs left. Could the 3's recover? Of course they could, Bill Long (64 n/o) and Russell Newell (54 n/o) managed to add 114 runs at a quick rate to the score and at tea ODC were feeling pretty happy with life with 163 on the board.
The reply started well with Andy Hall striking in the first over, caught behind by Newell. The 5th over saw wicket number two via the same combo and with the score approaching 50 an identical wicket. The opposition skipper though was looking to score at every opportunity though his kamikaze running was causing his partners concern! Wickets 4 and 5 came off the bowling of Hall - both caught Brown and the skipper had a 5-fer for the first time at ODC.
Dan Brown had been replaced by De Vaux at the other end and the run rate slowed with De Vaux being very unlucky not to take a wicket. William East and Long then came into the attack and another wicket fell - Franklin the unfortunate man being run out after a full blooded drive was diverted by Will East onto the stumps at the non-strikers end and at 83 for 6 Roan and Lambethians were in deep trouble, though run rate was not an issue. Anderson and the skipper though put on a hefty 53 run partnership with the ODC fielding being unusually sloppy and panicked. Long though dragged ODC back into it taking two quick wickets including the dangerman Bashir who had bashed his way to an impressive 68.
Nerve shredding stuff, just 24 to win with two wickets in hand. With 18 runs to go Robin East ran out the number 9 and we had another super finish on our hands. East and Long finished their spells leaving De Vaux to bowl the final over, 7 runs needed. The balls were spot on the stumps but the impressive looking 11 scored runs off the first three to clinch the game - ODC finally ending up on the losing side of a close game but by losing so closely still gained a decent 13 points to Roan's 17.
So, although a disappointing loss ODC remain the team to beat. The next game away to LESSA marks the half way point of the season, so lets make sure there's no let up and we take maximum points home with us.
ODCuaco 3rd XI 163/5 (40 overs) lost to Roan & Lambethians 164/9 (39.3) by one wicket
Could the unbeaten league run go on from the mighty 3's? The skipper started off poorly again, losing the 4th toss in a row and ODC were put into bat.
Things got worse when the bowling started and the ball was jumping around off a length. McLaughlin, Coles and De Vaux all went cheaply (1 each) and after 10 overs ODC had about 5 runs on the board for 3 wickets down. Disaster loomed. Luke Hunter (20) and Michael Parr (18) though led a recovery of sorts but by the time both had departed ODC were still only 49 runs to the good with not many overs left. Could the 3's recover? Of course they could, Bill Long (64 n/o) and Russell Newell (54 n/o) managed to add 114 runs at a quick rate to the score and at tea ODC were feeling pretty happy with life with 163 on the board.
The reply started well with Andy Hall striking in the first over, caught behind by Newell. The 5th over saw wicket number two via the same combo and with the score approaching 50 an identical wicket. The opposition skipper though was looking to score at every opportunity though his kamikaze running was causing his partners concern! Wickets 4 and 5 came off the bowling of Hall - both caught Brown and the skipper had a 5-fer for the first time at ODC.
Dan Brown had been replaced by De Vaux at the other end and the run rate slowed with De Vaux being very unlucky not to take a wicket. William East and Long then came into the attack and another wicket fell - Franklin the unfortunate man being run out after a full blooded drive was diverted by Will East onto the stumps at the non-strikers end and at 83 for 6 Roan and Lambethians were in deep trouble, though run rate was not an issue. Anderson and the skipper though put on a hefty 53 run partnership with the ODC fielding being unusually sloppy and panicked. Long though dragged ODC back into it taking two quick wickets including the dangerman Bashir who had bashed his way to an impressive 68.
Nerve shredding stuff, just 24 to win with two wickets in hand. With 18 runs to go Robin East ran out the number 9 and we had another super finish on our hands. East and Long finished their spells leaving De Vaux to bowl the final over, 7 runs needed. The balls were spot on the stumps but the impressive looking 11 scored runs off the first three to clinch the game - ODC finally ending up on the losing side of a close game but by losing so closely still gained a decent 13 points to Roan's 17.
So, although a disappointing loss ODC remain the team to beat. The next game away to LESSA marks the half way point of the season, so lets make sure there's no let up and we take maximum points home with us.
Saturday 1st July 2017, LESSA Christ Church Away
ODCuaco 3rd XI 124/6 (38.3 overs) beat LESSA Christchurch by 4 wickets
Finally the skipper won the toss and LESSA were into bat. The idea was early wickets and wallop - 6th ball of the 1st over Murrell snaffled one up in the gully off Hall and ODC ere underway. Hall and Baylis bowled economically without further luck and Clemming and East were on. Both struck early - Clemming with a caught and bowled and East aided by Clemming at square leg. LESSA were struggling to get any runs on the board but at drinks hadn't lost further wickets - Clemming with impressive figures of 62-10-1. The returning Rohan Patel now came into the attack with Bill Long and they set about breaking the 4th wicket partnership. This was done with a Patel caught and bowled before the dangerous Lawrence was removed, caught by Baylis. Liam Osborne and Long combined to run out the next victim then Patel bowled castled the next. Dan Murrell bowled a couple of overs before Patel returned and took the last three wickets - all stumped by Newell. Patel and Long bowled almost 16 overs between them for just 27 runs - impressive - and Patel had taken 6 wickets in his first appearance of the season.
So, ODC were set a straightforward 124 to win. Sam De Vaux and Mark Coles put on 29 before De Vaux (10) was caught and Murrell then joined Coles and they pushed the score beyond the half way mark before Coles was caught out for a decent 39 runs. The run rate though was climbing and East sprung into action, looking to score off every ball forcing singles before being caught for a brisk 7. Osborne continued to force things and push ODC to victory and he and Murrell put on a quick 15 before Osborne was bowled. Clemming shelled out early doors before Long hit a quick 9 off just 5 balls. ODC were nearly there and Newell(9 n/o) and Murrell (30 n/o) got them there with an over and a half to go. In truth, a bit too close to comfort but nevertheless 20 points gained.
So, the halfway stage reached with ODC 18 points clear at the top of the league. A big game coming up at The Warren against third placed Chislehurst!
ODCuaco 3rd XI 124/6 (38.3 overs) beat LESSA Christchurch by 4 wickets
Finally the skipper won the toss and LESSA were into bat. The idea was early wickets and wallop - 6th ball of the 1st over Murrell snaffled one up in the gully off Hall and ODC ere underway. Hall and Baylis bowled economically without further luck and Clemming and East were on. Both struck early - Clemming with a caught and bowled and East aided by Clemming at square leg. LESSA were struggling to get any runs on the board but at drinks hadn't lost further wickets - Clemming with impressive figures of 62-10-1. The returning Rohan Patel now came into the attack with Bill Long and they set about breaking the 4th wicket partnership. This was done with a Patel caught and bowled before the dangerous Lawrence was removed, caught by Baylis. Liam Osborne and Long combined to run out the next victim then Patel bowled castled the next. Dan Murrell bowled a couple of overs before Patel returned and took the last three wickets - all stumped by Newell. Patel and Long bowled almost 16 overs between them for just 27 runs - impressive - and Patel had taken 6 wickets in his first appearance of the season.
So, ODC were set a straightforward 124 to win. Sam De Vaux and Mark Coles put on 29 before De Vaux (10) was caught and Murrell then joined Coles and they pushed the score beyond the half way mark before Coles was caught out for a decent 39 runs. The run rate though was climbing and East sprung into action, looking to score off every ball forcing singles before being caught for a brisk 7. Osborne continued to force things and push ODC to victory and he and Murrell put on a quick 15 before Osborne was bowled. Clemming shelled out early doors before Long hit a quick 9 off just 5 balls. ODC were nearly there and Newell(9 n/o) and Murrell (30 n/o) got them there with an over and a half to go. In truth, a bit too close to comfort but nevertheless 20 points gained.
So, the halfway stage reached with ODC 18 points clear at the top of the league. A big game coming up at The Warren against third placed Chislehurst!
Saturday 15th July 2017, Streatham & Marlborough Away
ODCuaco 3rd XI 108/10 (36.3 overs) Lost to Streatham & Marloborough 5th XI 183/8 (40) by 75 runs
What a great start for ODC to this one. The toss won, S&M put into bat and despite the run rate being high the batting side were reduced to 59 for 5 down! Fin Irvine took a wicket (as always) in his first over aided by a great catch from Mick Boyden with Hall adding two further quick wickets - one bowled and one caught by Mati Haidar. Mati himself then took two wickets, one caught Whittle and the other castled, spinning so much the batsman initially refused to walk!
However, it went downhill from here with a super 6th wicket partnership of almost 100 before Mark Irvine struck - caught Hall. Gul Sayad had bowled 8 quality overs without luck and unfortunately the breakdown of Osborne's car denied ODC a 11th fielder for long periods. Whittle claimed a deserved wicket - again caught Hall - before Irvine combined with Gul to take an 8th and an extra bowling point. The damage, however, had been done with that 6th wicket and ODC were set a challenging 184 to win.
The reply got off to the worst possible start, Coles out 2nd ball and though Mick Boyden batted well scoring was hard to come by. Boyden perished trying to advance the score but then the ODC countered - Haidar and Dan Murrell becoming increasingly more comfortable and the score progressed to 80 for 2. Murrell (43) then perished just short of a deserved 50 with Haidar (28) following a ball or two later. Osborne completed his bad day with a duck before Louis Boyden (2) and Sayad (0) quickly joined him. Whittle (3) and Fin Irvine (0) didn't last long and ODC had surrendered 7 wickets for just 12 runs. Hall joined Mark Irvine for a last stand and the pair managed to get a couple of batting points on the board before Irvine (14) was bowled following consecutive boundaries leaving the skipper on 6 not out.
So just 6 points gained and the ODC lead at the top of the table cut. Lets hope for some 'bouncebackability' against NatWest in our next game!
ODCuaco 3rd XI 108/10 (36.3 overs) Lost to Streatham & Marloborough 5th XI 183/8 (40) by 75 runs
What a great start for ODC to this one. The toss won, S&M put into bat and despite the run rate being high the batting side were reduced to 59 for 5 down! Fin Irvine took a wicket (as always) in his first over aided by a great catch from Mick Boyden with Hall adding two further quick wickets - one bowled and one caught by Mati Haidar. Mati himself then took two wickets, one caught Whittle and the other castled, spinning so much the batsman initially refused to walk!
However, it went downhill from here with a super 6th wicket partnership of almost 100 before Mark Irvine struck - caught Hall. Gul Sayad had bowled 8 quality overs without luck and unfortunately the breakdown of Osborne's car denied ODC a 11th fielder for long periods. Whittle claimed a deserved wicket - again caught Hall - before Irvine combined with Gul to take an 8th and an extra bowling point. The damage, however, had been done with that 6th wicket and ODC were set a challenging 184 to win.
The reply got off to the worst possible start, Coles out 2nd ball and though Mick Boyden batted well scoring was hard to come by. Boyden perished trying to advance the score but then the ODC countered - Haidar and Dan Murrell becoming increasingly more comfortable and the score progressed to 80 for 2. Murrell (43) then perished just short of a deserved 50 with Haidar (28) following a ball or two later. Osborne completed his bad day with a duck before Louis Boyden (2) and Sayad (0) quickly joined him. Whittle (3) and Fin Irvine (0) didn't last long and ODC had surrendered 7 wickets for just 12 runs. Hall joined Mark Irvine for a last stand and the pair managed to get a couple of batting points on the board before Irvine (14) was bowled following consecutive boundaries leaving the skipper on 6 not out.
So just 6 points gained and the ODC lead at the top of the table cut. Lets hope for some 'bouncebackability' against NatWest in our next game!
Saturday 12th August 2017, Blackheath Home
ODCuaco 3rd XI 150/5 (37.3 overs) beat Blackheath 7th XI 149/9 (40) by 5 wickets
So, with three games to go ODC were looking to keep out in front at the top of the table against a Blackheath side themselves challenging for promotion. Andy Hall was back to skipper after a two game absence and promptly won the toss and elected to bowl.
Hall and Dan Baylis opened up and ODC struck the first blow, Baylis bowling the No.1 with 27 on the board. No further wickets fell in the pairs opening salvo and Robin East and Bill Long entered the fray. Neither could produce a wicket but the scoring rate never got away from the home side. Will East carried on where his Dad had left off but still wickets would not fall and at 121/1 with 9 overs remaining Blackheath looked in a good position to attack. However the attack was snuffed out before it began, Baylis and Robin East combining to remove the opener. Hall then took out the number 3 who had scored a half century with a beauty of a pee roller. Baylis and Hall then traded wickets for the rest of the innings with McLaughlin and Coles (twice) assisting with catches. Baylis took his first ODC 5-fer and Hall got as close to a hat-trick as you can without getting one - an edge going through the slip cordon. The last 9 overs had yielded 8 wickets for just 28 runs - a great fielding effort. Super bowling from all - this was all about scoreboard pressure!
John McLaughlin opened the batting with Mark Coles who looked on deaths door (best to keep him away from the rest of us). Johnny Mc fell for 11 with Dan Murrell going shortly after. Luke Hunter steadied the ship and with Coles batting the scoring rate, though climbing was never far behind. Hunter went for 7 but had shared in a decent stand of 65 and ODC were poised to attack with wickets in hand. Newell and Coles did just that with Coles finally falling for 77 including a couple of enormous 6's (resulting in more lost balls). Newell unusually was caught out taking his average below 100 but the run rate was now down to 4 an over. Bill Long and Louis Boyden finished off in some style and ODC won with just under three overs to spare.
A top effort all round and ODC stay ahead of the chasing pack. 6 more points required for promotion but that's not the prize they are after. The title is in our hands with a monster game against second placed Roan and Lambethians coming up on the 26th. Bring it on!
ODCuaco 3rd XI 150/5 (37.3 overs) beat Blackheath 7th XI 149/9 (40) by 5 wickets
So, with three games to go ODC were looking to keep out in front at the top of the table against a Blackheath side themselves challenging for promotion. Andy Hall was back to skipper after a two game absence and promptly won the toss and elected to bowl.
Hall and Dan Baylis opened up and ODC struck the first blow, Baylis bowling the No.1 with 27 on the board. No further wickets fell in the pairs opening salvo and Robin East and Bill Long entered the fray. Neither could produce a wicket but the scoring rate never got away from the home side. Will East carried on where his Dad had left off but still wickets would not fall and at 121/1 with 9 overs remaining Blackheath looked in a good position to attack. However the attack was snuffed out before it began, Baylis and Robin East combining to remove the opener. Hall then took out the number 3 who had scored a half century with a beauty of a pee roller. Baylis and Hall then traded wickets for the rest of the innings with McLaughlin and Coles (twice) assisting with catches. Baylis took his first ODC 5-fer and Hall got as close to a hat-trick as you can without getting one - an edge going through the slip cordon. The last 9 overs had yielded 8 wickets for just 28 runs - a great fielding effort. Super bowling from all - this was all about scoreboard pressure!
John McLaughlin opened the batting with Mark Coles who looked on deaths door (best to keep him away from the rest of us). Johnny Mc fell for 11 with Dan Murrell going shortly after. Luke Hunter steadied the ship and with Coles batting the scoring rate, though climbing was never far behind. Hunter went for 7 but had shared in a decent stand of 65 and ODC were poised to attack with wickets in hand. Newell and Coles did just that with Coles finally falling for 77 including a couple of enormous 6's (resulting in more lost balls). Newell unusually was caught out taking his average below 100 but the run rate was now down to 4 an over. Bill Long and Louis Boyden finished off in some style and ODC won with just under three overs to spare.
A top effort all round and ODC stay ahead of the chasing pack. 6 more points required for promotion but that's not the prize they are after. The title is in our hands with a monster game against second placed Roan and Lambethians coming up on the 26th. Bring it on!
Saturday 3rd June 2017, Blue Star Away
LATE MATCH REPORT
ODCuaco 3rd XI 234/6 (40 overs) beat Blue Star 171/7 (40) by 63 runs
So after four successful run chases in a row ODCuaco now had to prove they could win by batting first after the skipper lost the toss. The 3's had a gun team for various reasons and featured the cream of Steve Wright's youngsters occupying 5 of the top 7 batting spots. Coles (5) was out early but Sam De Vaux was getting on with things and he and Dan Murrell swiftly took the score to 42 before Murrell (15) was out caught. Joe East and De Vaux were not worried however and put Blue Star to the sword with the run rate gradually increasing and by the time East (43) was bowled the score had moved on to 126 with 12 overs to go. Will Black finally got a bat for the 3's and this pair put on 50 runs in under 8 overs before De Vaux was finally undone looking to push the score on. His innings was his top ever score of 87 runs and frankly was a joy to watch. Bill Long now joined Black with a simple brief from the skipper - have a go mate, no holds barred. 41 runs were now plundered in 4 overs with Long out on 23 runs from about 3 balls - exceptional work. Louis Boyden now came in for the final effort and 23 further runs were added in the next 11 balls with Black (27) run out with two balls to go. Newell hit a single before the nail in the coffin - a final ball maximum from Boyden who finished 13 not out.
What a batting effort - an unheard of 234 runs with a hundred runs off of the final 10 overs.
The first task was not to let Blue Star get away to a fast start and this was duly achieved by the opening pair of Hall and Tom Gale. Gale made the breakthrough, bowling the number 1 and though the next partnership was a good one the required run rate was climbing and climbing. Hall missed a caught and bowled chance and Bill Long then replaced Gale. After East had bowled two overs De Vaux came on and he and Long bowled with control, finally forcing a wicket each in quick succession. Grimsley was finally out caught Gale off Long for 83 and any faint hopes of a run chase were gone. It was now about how many wickets ODC could get. In front of the celebrating 1st team Hall and Gale came back on to take a wicket each before Dan Murrell claimed his first senior wicket. Blue Star finished 7 down and a long way short.
So a fifth win in a row for the 3's. Next up a tricky away tie to Blackheath which marks a third of the season gone - ODC will not want to give up their unbeaten record with Chislehurst only a short distance behind the early leaders.
LATE MATCH REPORT
ODCuaco 3rd XI 234/6 (40 overs) beat Blue Star 171/7 (40) by 63 runs
So after four successful run chases in a row ODCuaco now had to prove they could win by batting first after the skipper lost the toss. The 3's had a gun team for various reasons and featured the cream of Steve Wright's youngsters occupying 5 of the top 7 batting spots. Coles (5) was out early but Sam De Vaux was getting on with things and he and Dan Murrell swiftly took the score to 42 before Murrell (15) was out caught. Joe East and De Vaux were not worried however and put Blue Star to the sword with the run rate gradually increasing and by the time East (43) was bowled the score had moved on to 126 with 12 overs to go. Will Black finally got a bat for the 3's and this pair put on 50 runs in under 8 overs before De Vaux was finally undone looking to push the score on. His innings was his top ever score of 87 runs and frankly was a joy to watch. Bill Long now joined Black with a simple brief from the skipper - have a go mate, no holds barred. 41 runs were now plundered in 4 overs with Long out on 23 runs from about 3 balls - exceptional work. Louis Boyden now came in for the final effort and 23 further runs were added in the next 11 balls with Black (27) run out with two balls to go. Newell hit a single before the nail in the coffin - a final ball maximum from Boyden who finished 13 not out.
What a batting effort - an unheard of 234 runs with a hundred runs off of the final 10 overs.
The first task was not to let Blue Star get away to a fast start and this was duly achieved by the opening pair of Hall and Tom Gale. Gale made the breakthrough, bowling the number 1 and though the next partnership was a good one the required run rate was climbing and climbing. Hall missed a caught and bowled chance and Bill Long then replaced Gale. After East had bowled two overs De Vaux came on and he and Long bowled with control, finally forcing a wicket each in quick succession. Grimsley was finally out caught Gale off Long for 83 and any faint hopes of a run chase were gone. It was now about how many wickets ODC could get. In front of the celebrating 1st team Hall and Gale came back on to take a wicket each before Dan Murrell claimed his first senior wicket. Blue Star finished 7 down and a long way short.
So a fifth win in a row for the 3's. Next up a tricky away tie to Blackheath which marks a third of the season gone - ODC will not want to give up their unbeaten record with Chislehurst only a short distance behind the early leaders.
Saturday 26th August 2017, Road and Lambethans Away
ODCuaco 3rd XI 128/8 (39.2 overs) beat Roan & Lambethians 2nd XI 119/10 (40) by two wickets
These are the games that we all play cricket for. The 3's were top of the league knowing that a maximum points win would guarantee them the title whereas a loss would take it to a final game. It started badly with the toss lost but soon improved with the opposition electing to bat. Andy Hall and Dan Baylis weren't put off by the fact that one of their number hadn't arrived yet and Baylis in particular was on the money straight away. It took Hall a couple of overs to find his line but this was an economical opening though the oppo's openers looked strong. Inexplicably though a sudden swipe across the line to Hall's bowling saw middle stump hit and ODC were away. 6 runs later Hall and Long combined to remove the other opening bat and in the same over Tej Patel took a further catch of Hall's bowling - R&L now 22/3. Not to be outdone Baylis - now extracting real pace - castled the number 4 and Tej then produced a piece of brilliant fielding to run out the number 5. ODC's 11th man then turned up to further boost their chances.
The Patel brothers (Rohan and Tej) now came into the attack with Tej grabbing the 6th wicket LBW. The run rate was still low but a recovery of sorts was led by Adnan Ejaz and no further wickets fell for the next few overs. A fine spell from Patel over, Baylis was now back and took a second wicket with a super catch from Ro Patel. Hall then came back following a super (but wicketless) spell of 10 overs from Rahan and took out the 9 & 10 with a caught and bowled and a further catch from Ro. Bill Long then finally ended the resistance of Ejaz by cleaning him up but he had scored a fantastic 56 runs to give Roan belief. Hall finished with 5-23.
So, a fairly straightforward target to chase down.....you've guessed it - no. Sam De Vaux, Mark Coles and John McLaughlin all departed for a total of one run between them. Shehryah Gul though was looking confident and Mike Parr gave him a partner who was determined to stay in and steady the ship. The pair added 33 untroubled runs before the worst ball of the match did for Parr. Long and Gul added a further 32 runs before a calamitous mix up saw Long sacrifice himself run out - all would be forgiven should Sherry lead us home! Newell looked dangerous but then holed out to mid-off with Baylis and Tej departing in quick succession.
So, the score now 101/8 with 19 runs needed for victory. Hall was now at the crease determined to be there at the end and with the run rate manageable he was content to simply block out and let Sherry - by now with a half century - finish things off. Closer and closer they edged and with only a few runs to go Hall finally played an attacking shot with an off drive to the boundary to send the watching OD's ballistic. Gul then finished things off carrying his bat for 69 not out. ODC had won the league!
As has been the way this season the fielding was fantastic with all catches being taken. A superb game against the 2nd best team in the league played in the right spirit - well done to both teams.
ODCuaco 3rd XI 128/8 (39.2 overs) beat Roan & Lambethians 2nd XI 119/10 (40) by two wickets
These are the games that we all play cricket for. The 3's were top of the league knowing that a maximum points win would guarantee them the title whereas a loss would take it to a final game. It started badly with the toss lost but soon improved with the opposition electing to bat. Andy Hall and Dan Baylis weren't put off by the fact that one of their number hadn't arrived yet and Baylis in particular was on the money straight away. It took Hall a couple of overs to find his line but this was an economical opening though the oppo's openers looked strong. Inexplicably though a sudden swipe across the line to Hall's bowling saw middle stump hit and ODC were away. 6 runs later Hall and Long combined to remove the other opening bat and in the same over Tej Patel took a further catch of Hall's bowling - R&L now 22/3. Not to be outdone Baylis - now extracting real pace - castled the number 4 and Tej then produced a piece of brilliant fielding to run out the number 5. ODC's 11th man then turned up to further boost their chances.
The Patel brothers (Rohan and Tej) now came into the attack with Tej grabbing the 6th wicket LBW. The run rate was still low but a recovery of sorts was led by Adnan Ejaz and no further wickets fell for the next few overs. A fine spell from Patel over, Baylis was now back and took a second wicket with a super catch from Ro Patel. Hall then came back following a super (but wicketless) spell of 10 overs from Rahan and took out the 9 & 10 with a caught and bowled and a further catch from Ro. Bill Long then finally ended the resistance of Ejaz by cleaning him up but he had scored a fantastic 56 runs to give Roan belief. Hall finished with 5-23.
So, a fairly straightforward target to chase down.....you've guessed it - no. Sam De Vaux, Mark Coles and John McLaughlin all departed for a total of one run between them. Shehryah Gul though was looking confident and Mike Parr gave him a partner who was determined to stay in and steady the ship. The pair added 33 untroubled runs before the worst ball of the match did for Parr. Long and Gul added a further 32 runs before a calamitous mix up saw Long sacrifice himself run out - all would be forgiven should Sherry lead us home! Newell looked dangerous but then holed out to mid-off with Baylis and Tej departing in quick succession.
So, the score now 101/8 with 19 runs needed for victory. Hall was now at the crease determined to be there at the end and with the run rate manageable he was content to simply block out and let Sherry - by now with a half century - finish things off. Closer and closer they edged and with only a few runs to go Hall finally played an attacking shot with an off drive to the boundary to send the watching OD's ballistic. Gul then finished things off carrying his bat for 69 not out. ODC had won the league!
As has been the way this season the fielding was fantastic with all catches being taken. A superb game against the 2nd best team in the league played in the right spirit - well done to both teams.
