MATCH REPORT - SAT 3RD XI (23RD MAY)

Another good win for the 3’s on Saturday away to Finch.
Lost the toss on yet another covered and pleasant looking wicket as the hosts chose to bat.
With Andy Passfield ruled out due to knee damage after training on Wednesday, Mark S and the fully fit (as fit as he can be) Mighty White opened the bowling. Both tied up the opposition well.

Ryan Blake on his first game this season replaced Mike W and bowled a great line and length to keep the pressure on. Then it was the turn of the youngsters, Adam Hendries who took an over to settle in, but then bowled really well for his 6 overs, and Harrison Button who got the prize wicket of their top scorer with Adam Hendries taking an excellent catch at long leg. James kept the pressure on and Santosh showed what he could do as well (thank goodness after the previous week!!). Mr Chuckles was the pick of the bunch as he was brought back to finish Finch off for 126 with figures of 3-27, a wicket each for Blake, Button, Mandal, Balcombe and Hendries.

Now the batting report. With Brad and Josh Brown elevated to the 2’s, the Mighty White and Mr “Average” Balcombe opened up. I don’t think there was much to report, with Charles Buxton the only man to make double figures other than our main Van Driver Mr Balcombe, who once again showed a masterclass to bring us home with a sublime 88 not out and plenty of overs to spare. I have heard of DPD, but we have the JBE (James Balcombe Express). He always delivers on time and does a thoroughly professional job! He used his Sprinter Van on Saturday. For the selection committee. “He was lucky, he got dropped numerous times, poor attitude, not sure he could play at a higher level, think he should stay with me for the foreseeable future to see if he improves.” Well supported at times from debut man Adam Carey (a long nought), and helped to the final target by Ryan Funnell who held up one end to support James and calm the fidgeting skipper.

MOM: The professional van driver, Mr Balcombe.
Other Notable Moments: Adam Carey ‘trying’ and successfully catching the ball with his chest. Mike White surviving the game without injury. Youngsters Adam Hendries and Harrison both getting a wicket each and bowling well.
Things to Improve: My batting (going to seek further guidance from Mr B).
My Thanks: to all the team, and Mark Sutherland for scoring whilst under pressure from interfering nervous skipper.

Team Position: 1st (on alphabetical order in that Balcombe, sorry I mean Bagshot is before Bracknell).