Bedouins v Pedmore House – Wednesday, 1 August 2012

Beds lost by 36 runs

Spratters writes: The start was delayed due to a heavy storm just before six, so it was after 6.30 when the players squelched their way onto the square.

Pedmore house batted first, Spratters and Pearson opening the bowling for the Beds. Both finished with figures of 4-0-16-0 and 4-0-18-0 respectively. There was, however, a chance of a catch to Des at Mid on, but he chose to evade the ball while emitting a high pitched squealing noise.

At 8 overs P.H. were on 55 and wickets were needed. On with Lippo and secret weapon/special guest Len Oakes. Four runs each from their first two overs, six from Lippo’s second and then…..er…..oh dear…24 from the next from Oakes. The tactic of not pitching the ball didn’t work. Maybe he was just trying to save wear on the wicket. Lippo did, however take the only wicket in the innings in his 4th over, an excellent over the shoulder catch by Bywater.

With Oakes ‘taking a blow’, Bywater takes over from the pavilion end, and Tom Oakes bowling the last 2 from ‘tuther end, neither picking up a wicket leaving P.H. on 120 after 20 overs. Lippo top wicket taker with 4-0-29-1

Beds innings was opened by Lippo and Hill Snr. Unfortunately both back in the hutch after 3 overs, Lippo for a solid looking zero and Hill Snr. For a very stylish 2. Tom Oakes in at no 3 also unfortunately caught for an attacking nought.

Des and Ade in at 4 and 5, Des the pick of the batsmen staying to the close making 30 and Ade 18. Bywater made 14 and it seemed we might just have a chance, but unfortunately Hill Jr. was bowled for a spirited zilch, probably due to the light situation. (I wouldn’t say it was dark but the umpire had to send up a flare to guide the incoming batsman to the crease). Ferguson was bowled for 6 and Spratters in at 10 for 3 balls, 1 not out, the Beds finished on 94 for 9.

Then it was in the pavilion for scrumptious fish and chips. Des and Spratters had 2 portions. Des deserved his for being top scorer……