THE FORTY CLUB RESULTS: 2008 SEASON

These results have been sent in by District representatives and are (usually) reproduced verbatim. Latest results come first.
(District and opposition shown in heavy type: Results are shown in RED : century makers and great bowling are shown in BLUE)

Note: apologies, but any best performances not listed here are due to the relevant information not being submitted by the respective match managers for inclusion on the website

RESULTS

21st September 2008
vs Cupar CC - won
Despite monsoon's around the country, the Forty Club Scotland completed a fine win in their final match. Cupar batted first and a tight opening spell from Bates and Cameron restricted them to 16-2 after 10. Mike Nash in his first match and Jim Inglis both took wickets in their first overs to leave the Fife side in a predicament. A fine innings of 70 from Stonebridge put some respectability on the score before Ian Downie with 4 wickets from 12 runs blew away the tail. A fine opening stand from Bowers and Andrew Bett again in his first match laid the platform and Steven Bates delivered the coup de grace with a hard hit 41. A fine 5 wicket win to close the season in style

6th September 2008
vs Crathie Village CC - won
A great result at Crathie where the Forty Club Scotland won by 30 runs. Paul Coffey took the opportunity to score his first 5o for the club with a fine 63. A third wicket partnership of 84 and a ninth wicket partnership of 37 set up a great total of 169. As well as Coffey, good contributions with the bat from Lloyd 29, Els 22, Neill 17 and a little cameo from Ian Downie with 15 from number ten. A great team performance. The club welcomed three young guests from down under Jackson Ristveski, Rhys Lloyd and Steve Foster. All three had great games and contributed to a good match. A couple of quick wickets including a great run out had Crathie in trouble, but 64 for the third wicket was followed by three quick wickets to put the Forty Club in control. All the bowlers bowled well, with Ian Redmond 2-14 the pick. The other wickets were shared among Richard Young 2-24, Rhys Lloyd 2-24, John Cameron 1-9 and Colin Neill 1-28. Mike Sweeney made a triumphant return behind the stumps with two catches and a stumping while the ground fielding was certainly improved with our two Kiwis and the Aussie! A great end to the season for many members and thanks to John Hitchen and Crathie for a good game but especially outstanding hospitality

2nd September 2008
vs Leicester Gents - draw
Leicester Gents won the toss on a cloudy day and elected to bat first against the East Midlands. A good opening stand was broken by Mick Aplin. Alan Cook 15-0-45-0 bowled unchanged until lunch without luck in an excellent spell against good quality batsmen. Graham Wild 16-1-73-4 then bowled an excellent spell with the Gents eventually declaring on 290-6. Tim Moult 23 and Nigel Birkett making his debut put on 90 for the opening stand. Other batsmen kept the scoreboard ticking over. XL looked like chasing the total down as the Gents fielders retreated to the boundary. They very sportingly stayed out when most sides would have come off. Nigel Birkett was eventually out for a superb 124. As the wicket and outfield became wet boundaries became harder to get. Tony Pridmore batted very well for 47 not out and XL finished 12 runs short on 278-8 to draw the game. Another fantastic game against The Gents who hosted the game very well at the beautiful East Langton ground.

27th August 2008
Inter District Final - East Midlands beat Eastern Counties by 9wkts
Eastern Counties won the toss and elected to bat on a good pitch – overcast conditions suited East Midlands opening pair Cliff Adwick and Byron Aplin who both bowled well, getting movement both in the air and off the pitch with the new ball – Adwick finishing with 3-15 from his ten overs. For EC Smith and Patel then took the attack back to EM with some good batting but Patel was brilliantly caught at slip by Micky Aplin off the ever reliable Russell Spires. When Smith was unfortunately run out the EC innings lost momentum and Mark Langford took 2 wkts in 3 balls to wrap things up. EM then began their reply cautiously with some fine bowling by Gates and Keys – Gates bowling Cheshire with a beauty. However Skipper Blatherwick (supported by Tony Pridmore) took control and hit some super shots in his unbeaten 77 – Em won by 9 wkts with 22 overs to spare. Blatherwick (also named Man of the Match) lifted the trophy for the second successive year to confirm EM as undisputed Forty Club Champions.
Scorecard
Photos

27th August 2008
vs Derby Frairs - won
Derby Friars won the toss and elected to bat on a hard, flat track at Queens Park, Chesterfield. They declared at 3:15 on 261-6. By then East Midlands had bowled 55 overs and did well to restrict the Friars to this total in excellent batting conditions. Pick of the bowlers were medium pacer Roger Bolstridge who took 2-62 from 13 overs and leggie Martin Blincow who claimed 2-43 from 11 accurate overs. The declaration gave the visitors 45 minutes before tea and they negotiated the new ball to reach tea with the score on 51-1. After tea, with only 40 minutes plus 20 overs to play, the East Midlands batsmen Steve Masic and Tim Moult needed to take the attack to the Friars and this they did to good effect. The ball disappeared to all parts of the ground as they compiled an unbroken partnership of 230 to romp home by 9 wickets with 8 overs of the last 20 remaining. Masic finished with a personal best of 148* and Moult with 86* as victory was achieved in 39 overs

26th August 2008
vs Kennington CC - won
The final Kent & East Sussex district match for 2008 resulted in ‘a convincing win’ at Kennington. The home side got off to a good start, with Hutton (49) and J Isles (48) passing 100 before a wicket fell but thereafter the XL Club had regular success. Quantrill (3-27) and Brown (2-44) were the pick of the bowlers before Kennington declared on 201 for 7 from 42 overs. The XL innings followed a similar pattern with Quantrill (82) and Helyar (32) putting on over 100 for the first wicket, and with Riley looking assured for 36* we cruised home in the 40th over with only 3 wkts down.

21st August 2008
vs Frinton CC - lost
Eastern Counties were invited to bat first at this picturesque ground. Despite a good batting wicket our progress was slow until the excellent real ale and plenty of wine at lunch freed us of our inhibitions. Andrew Morgan hit two sixes in his enterprising 57 not out, supported at the other end by Robert Smith. Unfortunately captain Rob Nelson was not informed that star bowler Ian Starling had rolled a sight screen over his own foot and was thus unable to bowl, so our master tactician declared with hindsight about 15 minutes too early. Our bowlers, hindered by the usual cumbersome fielding, were unable to exert any pressure, despite two tidy spells from Guy Robins. Frinton won comfortably by 7 wickets with time to spare. We then enjoyed more hospitality in Frinton’s picturesque bar, built in 1904, which serves two draught real ales, draught cider and much more. The Forty Club would like to thank Pat Patel, Ian Johnson and Frinton Cricket Club for a most enjoyable day – miraculously a dry and relatively pleasant one (weather-wise).

19th August 2008
Inter-District Knockout Trophy 2008 - semi-final
Wales vs East Midlands - East Midlands won on the toss of a coin
A man of the match performance by Colin 'Percy' Hurst at Penarth CC has secured a place for the East Midlands in the final to be held at Collingham CC on the 28th August. Colin called heads and heads it was!!

15th August 2008
vs The Cricket Society - lost
Losing the toss proved crucial. Inserted on a damp track, going was tough for Surrey & West Sussex especially after the early loss of Spackman for a duck. A long period of rebuilding from Gale (30) and Munday (25) took the score to 48. Progress continued at a similar pace against seam but the introduction of spin was more to XL liking as Ellis (21), Newman (34) and Nanovich (38*) picked up the pace to a declaration at 180-8 off 52 overs. Facing the old ball, the Society (with several XL members on show) also found going hard against the accuracy of Wickens and Hawkins but once Humphreys (102*) survived a couple of half chances, there was only really one result. Munday (3-36) was the most penetrating of the bowlers and Nanovich posed a few problems as the ball swung but the Society eventually eased home with 10 balls to spare. Thanks to Sunbury CC for hosting the fixture and allowing play when it could easily have been called off.

13th August 2008
vs MCC - won
The Forty Club won the toss and elected to field first and did well to get the MCC all out for 159. Neil Sparham and Ken Stewart bowled very well to contain and then Nick Newman destroyed MCC batting with figures 9.1-6-12-5. A solid start saw Tim Moult top scoring with 40 and Neil Sparham’s 28 off 11 balls helped The Forty Club to a 4 wicket victory with 20 overs to spare. The match was very well hosted by Papplewick & Linby CC and a big thank you to them for doing so.

10th August 2008
vs Sissinghurst CC - lost
Although a most enjoyable game, Kent & East Sussex lost to Sissinghurst by 5 wkts as the home side chased down a generous declaration. For the visitors, Matt Quantrill’s 92 took his total tally for the season to over 700 for the District. But Sissinghurst’s Steve Brown (an XL member) with 45 and prospective member Trevor Wright with 52 helped steer their team towards a good victory. For Kent & East Sussex, Robert Leachman was playing on his 917th cricket ground - an achievement which he is trying to get the Guinness Book Of Records to acknowledge.

8th August 2008
vs Bluemantles - lost
The HERBERT HUNTER TROPHY remains with The Bluemantles for another year after a somewhat one-sided match against Kent & East Sussex. Batting first the Bluemantles started slow against some good bowling by David Fuller and Barry Adams with Alan Luff taking 3 quick wickets. It wasn’t until 15 year old Chris Williams (already playing for Tunbridge Wells 1st XI in the Kent Premier Cricket League) arrived that the game plan changed big time and in next to no time the young man had scored a sensational 102 * supported by Souck 30* setting a formidable target of 278. The Forty Club reply stumbled from start to finish with skipper Ron Hart batting at 8 the only member with 49 (including nine 4’s) to put up any challenge.

6th August 2008
vs Sibton Park - draw
Sibton Park got the better of the drawn match with Kent & East Sussex as they totalled 250 for 9 before declaring. Pick of the visiting bowlers was Ian Wilson with 3 for 50 off 14 overs. In reply, Kent & East Sussex closed on 164 for 8 with Geoff ‘Porno’ Pine top scoring with 37 not out who had been backed up with a quick-fire 32 from Wilson.
vs Netherfield CC - abandoned
The North West batted first under grey skies in Kendal with a constant light drizzle falling. A good 50 by guest Baldwin and 20 by Simon Foster were the highlights of the innings and a late flurry from prospective member Craig Atkinson (29) helped the club to 166 all out in 34 overs. Netherfield lost 4 wickets for 42, all falling victim to Bautik Shukla, before the conditions got too bad to continue and the match was abandoned.

5th August 2008
vs Netherfield CC- abandoned
The North West batted first under grey skies in Kendal with a constant light drizzle falling. A good 50 by guest Baldwin and 20 by Simon Foster were the highlights of the innings and a late flurry from prospective member Craig Atkinson (29) helped the club to 166 all out in 34 overs. Netherfield lost 4 wickets for 42, all falling victim to Bautik Shukla, before the conditions got too bad to continue and the match was abandoned.

1st August 2008
vs Kenyan Kongonis CC - draw
With the Kenyan Kongonis side proving to be 90+% UNDER the age of 40 and Surrey & West Sussex’s side being 45%+ over the age of 60 and then 90%+ overall over the age of 50 one sensed the Club might be in for a testing day - and so it proved! Losing the toss and being invited to field first was probably a good thing - in retrospect! - as only John Hawkins and Bill Munday caused the youthful Kongonis batting any trouble from time to time. Only opener Andy Graham (43) enjoyed any real degree of success either against an attack that had, once again, a youthful spring in its step! In the end though, The Forty Club’s doggedness not to lose overcame youthful pursuit of the win and the match ended in a draw.

30th July 2008
vs Lancashire League U17's - won
Perhaps not the strongest side the Lancashire League could put out but a fine win for the North West on James Anderson’s home ground of Burnley CC. At 22 for 2 XL started with a wobble, Jack Sudworth bowling both Welbourne and Hackett with excellent leg cutters. Richard Hope (37) and Eddie McLoughlin (51) then added 80 for the third wicket taking full advantage of any lose deliveries. Later order bursts from Terry Lord (45) and Mike Carpendale (26*) helped XL to a final total of 192 for 5 off their 45 overs. In reply the Lancashire League found runs hard to get as Terry Lord and Brett Storey tied them up. There then followed a Keith Roscoe master class as yet again for the third time this season he picked up a 5 wicket haul, 5 for 13 in just over 10 overs. Chris Hackett made up for his earlier second ball duck as his offspin earned figures of 2 for 38. A convincing win for XL our fourth on the trot.
vs Tenterden CC - draw
It was a very hot day and one where the Kent & East Sussex bowlers toiled well, sharing the wickets between them. The pick of which was Peter Hartland who bowled 22 overs very tidily to take 2 for 90. If catches had been held then Tenterden’s score of 319 would have been very different. Glynn Gunning was our mainstay in the batting stakes scoring 92, although the scoreboard showed 102!!! He was backed up by Willie Boone (52) and the Match Manager, Barry Adams(46) allowing us to close on 277 for 8 and earn an honourable draw.

28th July 2008
vs Maori Oxshot CC - draw
Losing the toss and having to field first on such a warm afternoon was not part of the Surrey & West Sussex plan but with the benefit of hindsight it probably served them well. On a batsman-friendly pitch with generously set boundaries Davies, Knight and Benzies tucked into the Forty Club bowling until Davies retired out with an aggressively struck century to his name. Some degree of normality was then restored via the bowling of Graham Neale, John Hawkins and Maori Oxshott’s batting before their innings closed on captain Steve Saker’s dismissal. The Forty Club’s reply was steady until Bill Munday and Graham Neale picked up the pace with a terrific third wicket partnership of 140. This put the Club in with a chance of overhauling the opposition’s challenging total. Wickets fell too regular though following their dismissal/s resigning The Forty Club to look to securing the draw in the closing overs despite Maori Oxshott’s generosity with number of overs (50) bowled. Super afternoon all round. Terrific Maori Oxshott hospitality throughout. Nice people; good company. Forty Club pretty competitive - eventually!

29th July 2008
vs Bath Buccaneers CC - lost
A strange game in that it started, was rain-interrupted, and started again as a 25/25 after the break. Due to the West’s bad start (51 for 6 in few overs) and poor weather, we reorganised the match to gain maximum benefit for all participants and to circumvent possible further weather problems. The Buccaneers (Bath CC midweek team, not their veteran side) started their innings at great pace, putting on a hundred in ten overs before both openers ‘were retired’. The gentler pace of Laurie Wells (2-38 off 5) and Mick Gorman (3-16 off 5) applied the brakes, but Bath still managed 182 for 7 wickets lost in their 25 overs. The XL innings started badly ‘again’, with four of the first six gathering ten runs between them in spite of improving weather. Steve Cornish (20) and Gorman (23) staged a minor recovery, before a 50 ninth-wicket stand between skipper Stuart Spalding (35 no) and Adrian Jeffrey (18 no) restored some honour, but not a win by the end of our allocation of overs (122 for 9 in 25). The result aside, an enjoyable game and day out; thanks to Bath CC for their reception and the effort made to stage the game at all. Look forward to challenging you better next year!

27th July 2008
vs Bronwydd Colts - draw
A highlight of the Wales XL season is the visit to the picturesque Bronwydd ground set in beautiful rural Carmarthenshire .The game was played on a beautiful, sunny day with the rolling hills as a backdrop and the Gwili Valley Steam Railway chugging away in the background. The XL won the toss and skipper Keith James decided to bat first. Openers Byron Jones and Phil Haines(32) set about the Colts attack putting on 114 for the first wicket. Jones received able support form his Bronwydd club mate Alun Harries (50*) before he was forced to retire hurt on 127.The innings was closed at 238 for 2. In reply the Colts mounted a brave challenge but against some accurate bowling from District Chairman Peter Owens and Bronwydd star Colin Tucker the innings fell behind the required rate. Slower bowlers John Morris and John James picked up vital wickets before Alun Harries chipped in. The XL were unable to claim the final wickets despite some buffet bowling from skipper James (in disguise) and closed at 195 for 8 to claim a creditable draw.

24th July 2008
vs West Midlands Police Veterans - draw
West Midlands won the toss and elected to bat on a dry flat pitch, with openers John Waters and Ali Babar. Progress was slow, due in part, to some good bowling. However, Babar eventually perished on 20, and Colin Jones joined the party. John Waters, having reached his 50, started to play more extravagant shots to push the score along, and was out for a solid 61. Nick Briggs came and went for 21, and Jones and debutant, David Banks finished on 49 and 14 respectively to leave the XL Club on 189 for 3 declared at tea. Quigley, Savage and Sadler picked up one wicket each for WMPV. In reply, WMPV came out guns blazing in the guise of Roy Tinkler and Mike Chapman. Both batsmen punished the bad balls in the early stages, and had it not been for the ever youthful Mike Perkins, the game could have been over quite quickly. Mike came on to bowl at a difficult time, but soon bamboozled both batsmen, and had them both stumped by Nigel Foxall for 41 and 34 respectively. Once the openers had departed the floodgates opened and wickets started to fall at very regular intervals. Mike Perkins eventually picked up 5 for 24 off 10 overs, and was ably supported by Ali Babar, who also returned figures of 3 for 7 off 6 overs. Good catching in the outfield by XL, and good wicket keeping kept XL’s hope alive, but, Unfortunately, the 10th wicket proved elusive once again, and the game ended in a draw. Our thanks go to WMPV for another close game, and for their excellent hospitality.

23rd July 2008
vs Bill Owen XI - lost
A late-starting afternoon match was fixed as 40-overs per team, with XL West playing two candidates and a young guest (M Hill) who the previous week had taken a half-century off our attack. Hill (74), and the toast of Wales, Phil Haines (52), provided an excellent start in excess of a hundred runs by the halfway stage; but the introduction of left-arm wrist-spinner E Harper changed the game irrevocably. He took five of the first six wickets to fall, and only Richard Gatton (29) and skipper Adrian Jeffrey (14) offered any further runs of note. By 40 overs we had subsided to 186 for 9, only to reduce the opposition to 2 for 2 and then 131 for 5. Yet wicketkeeper N Sara (73) took advantage of the change bowling, after candidate Wayne Griffiths had nabbed four wickets in 11 overs, well supported by two other middle-order batters. The Owen X1 got home in 36.3 overs by exploiting our generosity with the ball and by a determination to win a game they frequently looked like losing. Well done to them; we must be more ruthless!

20th July 2008
vs Comrie CC - lost
Comrie Cricket Club are, this year, celebrating 100 years as a club playing at Laggan Park at what can be descibed as one of the most scenically beautiful cricket grounds in Perthshire if not in Britain. On a warm day, the XL Scotland were inserted to bat on a wicket that was slow and low. Ruan Nel, guesting for the XL Club, scored a fine 67 and laid the foundation for a reasonable total of 160. He was ably supported by Bruce Girvan and Eric Young but it was the cameo knock by the diminuitive Ian Redmond that impressed the spectators who came down to watch. Tea was taken with the XL Club feeling confident but the sumptious feast and drinks provided during the day would take their toll in the second innings. After tea, Eric Young, captain for the day for the XL Club, presented the Comrie captain for the day, Chris Sangster, with a commemorative XL Club plaque and recounted how he and John Cameron first played at Comrie in 1971 when, as 14 year olds, they played against Sir Robert Dundas's XI when Sir Robert opened the batting for Comrie in his 90th year. Eric and Cammy have, perhaps, the distinction of being the only XL Club players of today to have played against an individual who played senior cricket in the 19th century! Eric went on to say that the XL Club fixture against Comrie has its roots in that 1971 fixture as the Centurions continued the fixture for a number of years to be succeeded by WDF Dow's XI (Bill Dow played for Essex and Scotland) against Comrie which, in turn, has been succeeded by the present annual fixture by the XL Club against Comrie. With tea taken and the presentation completed play resumed and Comrie were quickly behind the clock with very economical bowling by the openers, John Cameron and Bruce Dixon. With a wicket apiece, Cammy and Bruce finished their spells leaving Comrie to score 131 in 24 overs. Unfortunately, tea and drinks had obviously taken their toll of the other bowlers as the ball was despatched (and lost) to various parts of the ground with Comrie running out winners with an over to spare having only lost 4 wickets. Jamie Sangster, ably supported by his dad, Chris, was unbeaten at the end having scored a fine 67. Special mention should be made of David Reynolds, the XL Club umpire, and Alan Baxter (aka Scribe), the XL Club scorer. David had officiated at previous matches at Comrie and Alan was adding Laggan Park to his list of 150 odd grounds he has now scored at in Scotland. Afterwards the teams and officials retired to the Comrie Hotel for an evening of reminiscing and banter.

18th July 2008
vs Sussex Martlets - draw
A magnificent opening stand of 240 from centurions Willie Boone (104) and Denham Earl (108) on a flat Lancing College wicket brightening proceedings in the windy & overcast conditions. Quite literally the Martlets bowling was of little threat to Surrey & West Sussex and the only decision was the timing of the declaration to prise out the Martlet in the remaining time. To come so close was a tribute to their batsmen (who chased the runs) and the XL bowling which resulted in a very enjoyable game of cricket.

17th July 2008
Inter-District Knockout Trophy 2008
East Midlands vs West Midlands - East Midlands won
East Midlands openers Mick Blatherwick (80) and Martin Cheshire (105) put on 185 for first wicket in reduced overs of 43. Tidy bowling from Peter Hoare and Roger Wickson kept the score to 262 for 7. In reply Terry Brown (64) batted very well but lost the support of two key batsmen early on in the run chase. Neil Sparham and Colin ‘Percy’ Hurst bowled exceptionally well conceding very little runs which made the chase very difficult. West Midlands fell 109 runs short. Kibworth CC were great hosts with a fantastic facility and once again the match was played in great spirit.
vs Bexley CC - lost
In a 40 over match, Kent & East Sussex chased 188 but just fell short by 3 runs. The match was played in a very good spirit and saw a solid innings of 92 from Matt Quantrill who was backed up well by Nigel Keess (30) and Geoff ‘Porno’ Pine with 23. It has been suggested that the match was lost when Bill Faulks ran out the Match Manager but that cannot be confirmed. The Bexley innings had Sealey (39) and Gueniguact (50) to thank as it was these two who really helped post a fair total after losing some early wickets to a solid spell of bowling from John Hawkins (5 for 23). Without that partnership the result could have been oh so different!

16th July 2008
vs Neston CC - won
On a day where every wicket fell to spin bowling the North West won the toss and batted first with Danny Welbourne (35) and Eddie Mcloughlin (24) putting on 73 for the first wicket. With the introduction of Fennah and Burke, Neston’s fine young spin attack slowed the scoring and made inroads with Fennah picking up 2 wickets in as many overs. Burke bowled a tight line and also picked up a couple of wickets but towards the end of the innings Andy Riley and Simon Foster batted sensibly and aggressively to post a competitive total of 172 after 45 overs. In reply Neston’s openers Hackett and McPherson batted in a very positive manner including several maximums as they posted 57 for the first wicket in just 10 overs. Once Hackett had gone to a good catch on the boundary by McLaughlin normal service was resumed. Keith Roscoe and Bautik Shukla tied them down with a good display of left arm round spin, the famous Roscoe arm ball accounting for Yardley and Thompson both LBW. Roscoe bowled superbly taking 6 for 70 in a 21 over spell. Brian Bowling came on and immediately took 2 wickets before Roscoe accounted for the last two as Neston were all out 33 runs short of their target.
vs Carmarthen Wanderers Colts - draw
The Forty Club Wales paid their first visit to Trinity Fields, Carmarthen, since the passing of our dear friend Glyn Jones and took part in a hard fought and thrilling game which paid tribute to the memory of the great man. Batting first the Colts moved comfortably onto 85 for 1 before the introduction of skipper Simon Rogers who along with Mark Williams tore through the early and middle order to reduce the Colts to124 for 7.The Colts then put in a late innings flurry to finish in 165 all out. Rogers finishing with 4 for 18 and Williams with 2 for 34. The XL innings suffered the early loss of John Morris against a difficult opening attack, before John James and Phil Haines but the XL back in contention. They both fell in quick succession for 23 apiece. The innings then stuttered before a late burst by Rogers and Colin Tucker put the XL back in contention only for the innings to close on 147 for 9 and the match drawn.
vs Bishop Vesey Grammar School - lost
West Midlands won the toss and elected to bat on what looked like a great batting track. Alan Neal and John Waters toiled away to some fine opening bowling from Griffith and Robson before Waters fell victim to Griffith for 16. Colin Jones then set out his intentions by punishing the bad balls and resolved to stay until lunch. Unfortunately, when Neal was out, he was quickly followed by Zabair, and only a solid innings from Briggs stopped the rot up to lunch. However, he too went soon after lunch and Cooper played the innings of the day with a glorious 53. Roger Wickson hit a very rapid 22 before being run out to a direct hit, and XL were eventually all out for 193. Findlay was the pick of the bowling for Bishop Vesey with 4 for 27 off 10.5 overs. In reply, J. Hendry and S. Truelove opened for the school, and soon realised that XL were very lethargic in the field, and began to build an opening partnership of 128. Hendry was eventually bowled by R. Wickson for 57, and seconds later, R. Wickson ran out Truelove, with a throw from the boundary, for 71. Unfortunately, by now the damage had been done and despite Heron being bowled by J. Waters for 10, the school soon rattled off the winning runs to win by 7 wickets. As an inaugural fixture, the school were keen to renew the fixture again in 2009.
vs Christ's College, Finchley - lost
Eastern Counties decided to bat (and with hindsight foolishly), on a challenging pitch. Wickets were regularly lost, usually to careless strokes, and EC were disappointingly all out for 103, whereas 160 would have been a competitive total. Despite tight bowling by Ian Johnson and John Elliott, an amazing catch by Bob Collins and a couple of run-outs, the school reached their target comfortably to win by 6 wkts.
vs Harvey GS - lost
Ex-Zimbabwean ‘A’ player Paul Bourdillon scored 111 for Kent & East Sussex but Harvey GS matched that as Payne scored 114 to help the school win by 9 wkts

15th July 2008
vs Castle School - won
An afternoon match of only 61 overs and finishing early against a mixed staff and young school team at the pleasant ground of Taunton Deane CC. The West's captain, Simon Hopkinson, opted to bowl on a dry pitch, which evidently suited Martin King’s swingers as he took 5 for 40 supported by four other wicket takers. An excellent innings of 51 from school cricket coach/teacher Barry Jones gave his team a fighting chance, whilst our overseas ‘pro’, Stuart Spalding, bowled just one ball to finish the Castle innings before returning to the fray at number 5; but jetlag induced a rash shot replicated by three other early batters, and only Phil Haines (30) and Hopkinson (28) did themselves justice. At 88 for 5 we seemed to be ‘staring down the barrel’, but elderly bowlers Birkett (11 no) and Gorman (17 no) managed to almost ‘snatch a draw’ for XL before loose bowling (41 extras) and a scrambled two off the last ball of the match ensured victory by four wickets (1 run). An enjoyable afternoon’s cricket and a welcome win after recent travails against stronger sides.
vs Clumber Park School - draw
A great day for Colin ‘Percy’ Hurst, 5 for 40 !! East Midlands won the toss and after some thought, decided to bat. By tea enough runs had been scored to enable a declaration, knowing that they had a good bowling attack. Once David Beard was out, the wickets fell steadily, but Clumber stayed up with the run rate. It was an exciting game, with all three results possible at the start of the last over. The first words from the Clumber Park Chairman as we left the field were “what a great game, same day next year?” So we have retained the fixture, thanks to a great day out for both sides. Overall a super day, lovely weather and a game played in good spirit.

8th July 2008
vs Wellsway School - lost
Wellsway, one of three state schools the West play in a season, put out a good side largely based at Keynsham CC, who play in the premier division of the West and who lend their ground for school matches. The overnight rain had left the pitch spongy at first, so the school’s decision to insert XL was wise. In difficult pitch conditions, not improved by a strong wind, XL struggled to raise more than two an over for at least the first twenty; nevertheless, openers Rick Hutchinson (10) and Richard Gatton (35) survived the first four seamers and began to punish leg-spinner Bancroft before he finally took both. Thereafter, runs were at a real premium: only Peter Searle (18) and Phil Corbett (19) managed double figures against very keen fielding and varied bowling. We declared on 133 for 9 in just under 50 overs of attritional cricket. Tea was welcome, as was the weaker wind, but cloud cover and resolute school batting, from M Hill (48 no) in particular, gave little room for hope we might steal a win, or even a draw, as captain Cains came in to punch the bowling and accelerate until he was well caught by captain Ken Lunn rolling back the years in the deep field. The school finally reached the target in just under thirty overs, best bowling coming from Phil Corbett with 2 for 48 from 10. Although beaten by 6 wickets, XL again provided a challenge, but should have taken four or five catches which might have turned things at critical points.
vs Langley School - won
On a wicket made bouncy and unpredictable by recent rain Eastern Counties declared on 195-4 thanks to an excellent innings by John Waters, ably supported by Mike Smith and Ian Starling. In reply, Lambert then launched a furious attack on the XL’s bowling, fearless because he had to leave early for an evening match. Milgate continued his good work taking the boys to 149-3 before being given out LBW. At this point Eastern Counties woke up in the field and thanks to tight bowling by Brett Gates (6 for 32) and John Waters exerted considerable pressure on the school’s tailenders, who eventually succumbed in the penultimate over. Another exciting game – the first of many we hope against Langley School. Headmaster Dominic Findlay, formerly at Wymondham, entertained us royally to a luncheon banquet, beer, wine, Pimms and much more.

7th/8th July 2008
The Northern Festival (Reuban Trophy) - won by the Northeast District
Unfortunately two days of rain spoiled the Northern Festival which was due to be played on Monday 7th and Tuesday 8th July at Netherfield CC, Kendal. Consequently no play was possible - the first time this has happened in the 8 years since its inception. Lets face it, the Lake District would not be called the Lake District if it did not rain occasionally, but the weather chose the wrong time to be topping up the Meres and Tarns. However, Northwest as hosts did their best to keep their players and those who had travelled from Scotland and Northeast Districts entertained. Some took to the Golf Course, others adjourned to the Watermill Inn in Ings Village on Monday afternoon where the camaraderie of this festival was renewed between old friends and some new faces on all three teams. In the evening we all returned to Netherfield for a Roast Beef dinner where we were entertained a Tony Sheppard monologue and the reminiscences of past festivals from Alec Steele. We awoke on Tuesday to more leaden skies. The only option to find a winner to go on into Inter District Semi Finals was a bowl out. Northwest contested Scotland and only Brett Storey for NW managed a hit to win 1-0. The Northeast then went on to win the match against the NW with yet another 1-0 victory. It just goes to show how accurate bowling can be. The Northeast therefore were the winners of the Reubans Trophy for the first time. Not an ideal way to conclude, we would much rather have had some cricket but the weather was the real winner.

4th July 2008
vs The Oratory School - lost
The XL South won the toss and elected to bat and proceeded to build a reasonable opening partnership between Alan Neal and Tony Deakin. Deakin eventually perished to the bowling of Brock for a hard fought 28. Tony Pridmore joined Neal at the crease and took command immediately; however, after getting “in”, he too was caught on 42. Wickson, Jelley and Hartley came and went in quick succession, and it was left to Waters and Bainton with 39 & 36 respectively, to give XL a declaration total of 228 for 6 off 63 overs. The pick of the bowling for school was B Mitchell, with very respectable figures of 4 for 28 off 10 overs. XL were led into a false sense of security with the opening trio of Mitchell, Arnold and Johnston, as they all fell victim to the wily guile of Chris Page. Hawkins fared no better when he was caught off the bowling of Terry Brown. “Cometh the hour and cometh the men” in the form of T McGeer and E Brock, who between them turned the game on its head, and in calculated fashion, took advantage of the tired legs of the XL fielders and amassed 75 and 88 respectively. McGeer was stumped on 75 off the bowling of Wickson, but the game had been won by then. The school eventually ended up with 229 for 5, to win by 5 wickets.

3rd July 2008
vs Bancrofts School - abandoned
Eastern Counties lost wickets regularly on a dry, bouncy wicket, with several batsmen getting starts but failing to capitalise. 179 all out was 40 - 50 runs short of our target. A Patel batted beautifully for the school, caressing almost every ball slightly off line and length effortlessly to the boundary in contrast to the other school batsmen who struggled. As he reached 99 off only 23 overs the heavens opened making continuation of the match impossible. We returned to the field to allow Patel to complete a well-deserved century, his third this season, but further play was impossible.
vs Langley Park School - lost
Kent & East Sussex batted first but lost early wickets against some accurate bowling and tigerish fielding from the School. At 34 for 4 the XL Club looked in some trouble but substantial partnerships for the fifth and sixth wickets brought the score to 157 for 6. Matthew Quantrill was the mainstay of the batting with 69 with Barry Adams (23) providing good support and Cliff Hayward (46 not out in quick time) giving the innings impetus at the end. The XL Club declared at 202 for 8 and the School set about chasing this total down with some purpose, playing aggressive strokes whenever possible. The XL Club bowling was steady rather than penetrative and could not prevent the School getting off to a quick start with 56 runs on the board before the first wicket fell. The School continued to put bat to ball and, although five wickets fell, eventually overhauled the XL Club total with five wickets and four overs to spare. The pick of the School’s batting was A Stanley with 50 and C Le Bosquet with 61 not out. Overall a very enjoyable game, notable for the excellence of the School’s fielding and all round sportsmanship. A number of XL Club members also commented how much improved the School were in the three years the fixture had been played.

2nd July 2008
vs Ormskirk School - won
The school won the toss and elected to bat against the North West on another excellent pitch at Ormskirk Cricket Club. Illingworth and Abraham started brightly enough putting on 26 for the first wicket but once they had succumbed to guest James Kilner and the pace of Steve Dearden - the rest of the batting did not fair quite as well. Both of these bowlers took 2 wickets each to leave the school on 40 for 4. Slow left-armers Keith Roscoe and Bautik Shukla were introduced and found the pitch very responsive and the school continued to struggle. By lunch they had reached 68 for 8 and soon after the resumption they were all out. Before everyone sat down to lunch there was a minute’s silence to remember Nick Glayzer, an XL member, former head master and member of Ormskirk CC who sadly died last winter. In reply XL made short work of reaching the target. Eddie Mcloughlin hit 40 and Christian Slinger 36 as the North West cruised to a 10 wicket win.
vs Kings Shool, Worcester - lost
West Midlands elected to bat, with rain forecast, and started very promisingly, albeit 40 minutes late due to the rain. John Waters and Chris Simmonds were coping with the hostile bowling quite well until Waters pulled one straight to mid-wicket to perish on 7. Anthony Gillygrass looked set for a big innings, when he too was caught by a brilliant catch for 14. Ian Jones was the only other innings of any note with a worthy 21. A special mention for Simmonds, 40 and C Jones, who just fell one short of 50, for the best XL batsman award. Unfortunately, XL had three run outs, and it was hard at one point to see who the “Cricketers” were supposed to be ! The innings was declared at 5.00 pm on 155 for 7, leaving the school ½ an hour and 20 overs from 6.00 pm to get the runs. Right from the off, Liam Gwynne and Jack Ellis looked in command of the bowling. However, the “Champagne Moment” came when Gwynne launched a huge shot towards the “Long On” boundary, only for Andrew Peacock to calmly leap 10 feet into the air, and not only stop a certain 6, but caught the ball one handed to dismiss Gwynne for 50. James Yelland came and went for 18 as did Tom Gwynne for 4. However, Tom Bryant, 44, and Jack Ellis, 22, steered the school home in the last over of the game to win by 6 wickets. Our thanks go once again to Peter Iddon for arranging the game, and for his comment of welcoming the chance to pay a timed game.
vs Chislehurst & Sidcup Grammar School - lost
In a 40 overs a side match, Kent & East Sussex got off to a steady start with a fine opening partnership between Willie Boone (53) and Peter Robinson (23) who rolled back the years and treated us all to some classical cover driving. Then Russell Shipton (38) and Geoff Pine ((38*) increased the pace to post a total of 203. In reply, the School took advantage of some dropped catches and reached their target in the 38th over with some fine stroke play from Barclay (68*) and Tim Dawes who added 62 runs to his 4 for 30 in the XL innings. A much improved performance from the School this year in a thoroughly enjoyable match.
vs Prior Park School - draw
On a day of mixed weather Prior Park punted on batting and their early batsmen put the West fielders to work as they piled up 150 plus before the introduction of captain Searle’s gentle leg spin induced errors, three wickets and a more balanced outcome to the proceedings. The total of 250 for 6 looked good, but the early XL batsmen all contributed to a steady reply as Matt Turner, guesting from local club Hampset to cover for late cry-offs, worked on a well-deserved century. Ken Lunn, returning to XL duty, provide some lusty blows to assist the cause, but sadly, the middle order could not hold up after Turner’s demise and we ended fifty short of victory. In the circumstances a draw was fair given our reliance on a young guest; after several games in a week our club resources were rather stretched, but we gave the school a good match to enhance their cricket week.

1st July 2008
vs Christ College, Brecon - lost
On an overcast day with rain forecast the XL Wales played a reduced 35 over game with the College deciding to bat first after winning the Toss. The College got away to a steady start with openers Gough and K Marmion putting on 95 for the first wicket. The innings stalled following a fine spell of bowling by Chris Hudson and Gwyn Price who held a grip on the batsmen. The innings drew to a close after a tight closing spell by debutant Andrew Price who finished with 2 for 40. In reply the XL innings was contained by some fine bowling and fielding and just as some momentum was gained opener Gareth Owen was unfortunately run out. The innings spluttered before some late hitting by John James and Andrew Price saw the innings close 48 runs short just before the rain fell.
vs King Eward's School, Bathampton - lost
A fine day and good pitch encouraged KES to bat first, and four solid scores testify to the wisdom of the decision. The West’s opening bowlers, John Lodge (3-50) and Scott Costello, guesting against his old school, bowled well, but the follow-up bowling could not contain batsmen who struck anything loose and who risked hitting in the air, particularly against leg-spinner Berry, who both suffered and profited accordingly. A total of 258 for 7 in 48 overs was a big ask, but the loss of our first five batsmen for a combined total of 29 did not encourage thoughts of victory. Hodges and McComish began the process of rehabilitation, whilst Berry (10 not out in 61balls) and Gorman (43 in 62) staged a late revival and even hopes of a draw with three overs left. The loss of two quick wickets and one batsman absent injured put paid to such optimism, with the result that the school deservedly won an enjoyable game well-contested in some phases. Batting second is a good gambit IF a good start to the innings can be guaranteed…….
vs Bedford School - lost
On a good wicket, Eastern Counties’ Steve Hinson and Dave Pimlett added 191 for the second wicket enabling XL to declare on 271 for 7 off 57 overs. Steve nobly got himself out on exactly 100 after a controlled, chanceless innings, with Dave just missing out on an aggressive century. We set the school a tough target of 272 off what we estimated correctly to be 45 overs. Kettleborough and especially Davis batted beautifully, driving on the up with impeccable timing. XL lacked a spinner able to exert control from one end so despite a tidy spell from Ian Starling the school were always up with the run rate. An impressive display of orthodox strokeplay which met with coach Derek Randall’s approval. The Bedford School production line of future first class batsmen is alive and well. Although XL competed well in this game we are still a long way from finding a bowling attack able really to test these accomplished school batsmen.
Jingles Trophy: East of Scotland vs West of Scotland - East won
The East had a fine last ball win against the West in the annual Jingles trophy match. Batting first the West never got to grips with the East's bowling in an innings that also had three run outs. Paul Hubbard and Peter Robertson top scored with 23 each, but 117 was a poor return. The Westies top four bowlers bowled excellently with Cameron and Young the pick of the crop. A couple of missed chances meant that going into the last over 7 runs were required, Sandy Baird (the man of the match) and Joe Barry saw the east home with a scampered single off the last ball. A good day was rounded off in the Stenhousemuir clubhouse

30th June 2008
vs Kingswood School - lost
The West won the toss and decided to bowl in view of a soft and perhaps difficult pitch for batting. The school batted sensibly in the conditions and only good catching from steady bowling brought wickets. Sound scores from five batsmen guaranteed 200 in 50plus overs, leaving ample time for XL. Main bowling honours went to Mick Gorman (3-33) and Phil Corbett (3-34), both in 10 overs. From the start of our innings it was evident that runs would not be easy as left-arm round T. Ireland had three LBWs in his five-wicket haul. The batting subsided, with only Newport and Field (the father of the school captain) making double figures. A weak response from us after a promising performance with the ball.
vs Kimbolton School - draw
From 101-2 at lunch Eastern Counties’ innings subsided to 192 all out on a slow wicket of unpredictable bounce. The school batsmen also struggled, managing only 83 off their first 28 overs as the last hour started, against tight bowling especially by Ian Starling, Pat Ellerbeck and Jim Keys. After 11 overs of the last hour the school had progressed only to 110 for 7, so to prevent the match expiring into a tame draw Patrick Dewing was introduced to dangle the carrot. Opener Biddle, ably supported by Eaton, then attacked the target of 83 required off the last 9 overs, eventually falling just 4 short of a win. Biddle scored a disciplined 117 not out, putting on 85 for the 8th wicket with Eaton. A competitive and close fought draw.
vs Bolton School - won
On a bright sunny day in Bolton, the Northwest were invited to bat first on a damp, green seamers’ paradise. Subsequently progress was slow as both openers fell early to some accurate bowling by the School attack that utilised the bowler friendly conditions. The XL middle order dug in and steadied the ship with 2 good but steady partnerships providing a solid base. The school played their trump card by providing a fabulous buffet lunch which slowed down the now much heavier middle order. The tail wagged a little and the resulting total of 130 was maybe 20 or 30 below parr on a wicket that was now drying out and calming down. The school reply was just as slow due to an extremely accurate and menacing XL attack. The visitors now played their trump card by unleashing the very experienced (very diplomatic) off spin of Arnie Dalal who removed the school middle order before the slightly younger pairing (30 years younger) of Terry Lord and Billy Slinger removed the rest of the school team with some tight and intelligent bowling. The XL total had proved to be both competitive and 10 runs too many for the opposition. An excellent victory against excellent hosts on an excellent day.

27th June 2008
vs St Dunstan's School - won
This was a thoroughly competent XL performance with both bat and ball, as well as in the field. Kent & East Sussex posted a sound total with good contributions from each of David Steele, Glyn Gunning and Willie Boone in an innings interrupted by rain (as it always seems to be at St.Dunstan’s) either side of lunch against some decent bowling from the School’s opening attack, in particular. The target was, perhaps, a little on the stretching side but if only the School’s other batsmen had taken a leaf out of Murray’s book and waited for the poorer balls they would have got considerably closer to it than they did – perhaps too many had the evening’s 6th Form Ball in their sights! Richard Clark, as ever, bowled well for his 4 wicket haul, ably supported by John Hawkins, Jaap Vogelaar and the slower bowlers, as Captain Ron looked to keep the batsmen interested. An enjoyable day with the calm on one side of the Pavilion contrasting markedly with the School’s Summer Festival and live music to the rear of it. Thanks to all for playing and especially to the Peters, Blackler and Wiseman, for umpiring and scoring, respectively.

26th June 2008
vs Royal Hospital School - won
A beautiful ground with fantastic views coupled with an exceptional host in Don Topley. Don arranged two umpires in advance, one being an XL member who is Chairman of governors at RHS. Eastern Counties were invited to bat first and. XL debutant Mike Taylor scored 66 supported by Andy Squire 31, Ian Moody 24 & Pat Patel 11. This should have been a platform for a big score and were set fair at 151-2. Fortunately for the visitors all the main run scorers were dropped at least once during their innings. Had RHS held these catches the game could have changed dramatically. But The Forty Club then proceeded to collapse to 181-9, before a last wicket stand between former RHS pupil Andrew Poulson and Ian Johnson took the score to a respectable 212-9 before the declaration came. The bowling of RHS was excellent (the best seen by some of the XL members to date) with Cawkwell the pick in a fiery spell of 6 overs for 7 bringing 4 wickets. XL’s attack was reduced with Poulson aggravating a hamstring. RHS kindly supplied rotating fielders throughout their innings. RHS lost wickets at crucial times and consequently were always slightly behind where they needed to be. Pat Dewing (3-67) and Andy Squire (4-29) in particular bowled well as XL tried to entice the RHS into going for victory. It was finally achieved with a stunning two-handed catch by Andrew Morgan at short mid-wicket with 8 balls remaining. Hospitality throughout the day was exceptional, the boys follow Don’s example on and off the pitch, it was great to see the headmaster, et al, at the end of the game. Don’s round in the Gardeners Arms also warmly received.
vs Wells Cathedral School - lost
Against a team not encountered for three years because of bad weather, the West had a strong side ‘on paper’. On being inserted on a good pitch and in fine surroundings, XL put on 81 for the first wicket (Andy Ashfold 71, Steve Cornish 24) before losing the latter. Captain Rich Gatton and Ashfold then took the score to 131 when Gatton was run out for 23. The West could not maintain the momentum against a good spin attack and excellent fielding; only another sixty runs were added by 4pm and 58 overs, at which point the declaration came, some fifty short of our aim. By tea, half an hour later, the school were fifty for no wicket, opener Keevil having put our seamers to the sword in 22 balls before retiring to go for a County trial ! Thereafter the school could proceed at normal rate against the seamers and, briefly, our two spinners. They batted very well, especially J Corp (81 not out), and made the target in just 33 overs, to leave XL a little shell-shocked and a lot wiser about how to chase a target.
vs City of London Freemans School - lost
Having been 126 for 1 wkt just prior to lunch Surrey & West Sussex expected to post 250+ : not so after the traditional excellent lunch wickets fell quickly (seven to caught and bowled) with only debutant Steve Hook 41 making any reasonable contribution. Ian Rippingal 44, Clive Grierson 38 & Tim Walter 36 all made a start but never went onto make the necessary big score. A target of 200 was never enough against a very strong school batting line up although there was an early break through with Peter Wickins’ 4th ball, opener Burns with a magnificent 120 * and skipper Culhane 81* saw the school home without further loss. A school record partnership for the 1st wicket – no doubt we can expect to see the name of R Burns in the future playing for Surrey. An all-round outstanding performance by the School.

25th June 2008
vs Wisbech Grammar School - draw
On a bouncy wicket six Eastern Counties batsmen made good starts to their innings but failed to get beyond 30 - several wickets falling to ‘soft dismissals’. Sewell was the most accurate and thus the most successful of the school bowlers. Set 189 to win in what turned out to be 44 overs, the school struggled against accurate seam bowling by Ian Starling and Rob Nelson, struggling to 29 – 4 off 19 overs. Tom Coates however stood firm under sustained pressure from our opening bowlers in a mature and disciplined innings which almost won the match for the school. Ian Starling declared himself too tired to continue bowling after only 14 overs on the trot, thereby releasing the pressure on the schoolboys, who began to accelerate against our slower bowlers.
As the chase and the tension intensified, more wickets fell, culminating in 10 being required to win off Trevor Linahan’s last over with 2 wickets in hand; then 4 being required off the last ball. Tom Coates swung across the line too early and was bowled by Trevor, completing an honourable draw for both sides. This was a competitive and exciting cricket match – we made the boys fight all the way. Many thanks to Phil Webb and his colleagues for their usual hospitality. [Ian Starling is looking for a personal fitness trainer, all applications to him please].
vs Dover College - won
After being invited to bat first, Kent & East Sussex batted steadily on a slow wicket but a number of players dragged the ball on. The total of 160 was competitive but that could have been so very different if all of the catches offered had been held. The school’s batsmen struggled against the away swing bowling of Barry Adams and the guileful off-spin of overseas member Jaap Vogelaar (5 for 7 off 6.1 overs) and Ron Hart (3 for 16 off 5 overs) and were all out about 10 minutes before the last 20 overs were scheduled to start. The result on this occasion was a reversal of 2007’s match when the school beat the visitors by 9 wkts
vs King Henry VIII School - lost
With rain forecast, West Midlands decided to bat first on a good track. The opening pair of Corby and Jones coped well with the erratic bowling until Jones was run out for 21. Murphy soon perished for 8 and Wickson took up the challenge. Corby continued to dominate until he too fell victim for 65 just before lunch. Once Wickson had gone for 34, the only other notable innings was from Gilbert with 36. West Midlands were eventually all out for 198. The pick of the bowling for King Henry’s was S Sykes, with a creditable 5 for 48 from 17.8 overs. In reply, King Henry’s opening pair of Ballinger and Fisher dominated the bowling, and soon rattled up the score. Ballinger was eventually caught for 47 and Fisher for 33. J Edwards then carried on where the others had left off and scored a well crafted 49 before too being caught. The rest of King Henry’s chipped away until they finally got the winning runs off the penultimate over. Bowling honours were evenly spread amongst the XL team, and credit must go to the boys for a hard fought victory.
vs Reeds School - lost
Surrey & West Sussex decided to bat on a cloudy but warm dry day. It was a case of batsmen getting but not taking their score on into higher figures with Denham Earl reaching 49 and after 57 over’s the Club declared on 184-9. The school soon found themselves in early trouble after Andrew Barton claimed 2 wickets with the score on 13. At 38-3 the school seemed to be facing an uphill task but an excellent partnership of 119 between P Oldreive 48 & S Brandon 84 not out saw the school home to a 6 wicket victory.

24th June 2008
vs Colfe's School - lost
Kent & East Sussex batted first and could make little headway against some accurate Colfe’s School bowling. At lunch the Forty Club only had 51 runs on the board for the loss of 4 wickets and never recovered from their slow start, losing wickets regularly during the early afternoon. A last wicket partnership of 36 gave some respectability to the score but the total was always going to be 30 or 40 runs short of being competitive. And so it proved with the School racing to 91 for 2 in quick time. A flurry of 3 wickets in quick succession gave the Forty Club some hope but the School’s middle order continued to bat aggressively and closed the game out with plenty of time to spare, winning by the comfortable margin of 5 wickets.
vs Bromsgrove School - lost
On winning the toss, the West Midlands chose to bat first as they thought they had a reasonable batting line up, and on a good pitch felt like batting against a school attack was known would be keen. The bowling was unquestionably hostile, but no sooner did one batsman get “in” than others perished mainly playing big shots which were not needed in the circumstances. Only three batsmen – Wickson, Malone and Smith got past 20, and the five remaining wickets at lunch soon fell quickly afterwards to make the total 139 all out. Cedric Miller had three successes but WM dropped some vital catches which might have put the school on the back foot. They were strongly positioned at tea and afterwards, WM sped to defeat in rather depressing fashion giving the school victory by 7 wickets. Once again, the facilities at Bromsgrove were in first class order and we were entertained to a pleasant lunch and tea. The school coaches made an impressive job of motivating the boys, and they were keen, sportsmanlike, and above all good cricketers.
vs Sherborne School - lost
On a dry and well-prepared, if lifeless, pitch, the School invited the West to bat first. A slow start was repaired by McBride and Jenkins (new members from Clevedon CC) who put on 70 runs before the former was caught for 48; his partner went on to 56 with the overall score on 135. However, the urgency to then continue to score runs fast was too much for our middle order, all of whom were run out in the process, largely, it must be acknowledged, due to some very sharp fielding from our opponents. A brief flourish from veterans Loader and Lindley took us to 154 in 42 overs, at which point the captain felt obliged to declare. The school made short work (26 overs) of the total, with only Terry Robinson (4-56) enhancing his reputation or his bowling statistics as the school batsmen correctly exploited the pitch, the fielding and their own athleticism to complete the victory by five wickets.

23rd June 2008
vs Leighton Park School - lost
On paper the South’s team should have performed better than they did but struggled in the early stages of their innings against the school’s opening bowlers and then a rather pedestrian performance eventually raised a total of 145 from 57 overs. In reply the school set about the run chase with great gusto and reached their target in 22overs for the loss of 6 wkts.
vs Parmiter's School - lost
Eastern Counties batted first on a bouncy wicket after weathering a fast opening spell from Watson and unluckily losing John Waters. Robert Smith and Ash Patel put on 91 for the second wicket, XL declaring on 182 for 3 and leaving the boys 38 overs to get the runs. 4 runs were needed off the last over by John Elliott, who captured two LBWs leaving one run required off the last ball, which Vinnicombe swiped at and missed. The ball apparently safely lodging in your chairman’s wicket keeping gloves standing up to the wicket. It was at this point that XL were ambushed by the street-wise boys. As wicket-keeper and bowler prepared to shake hands with the umpires and to celebrate an exciting draw the non-striker arrived at the striker’s end and the striker set off to the bowler’s end, easily beating Robert Smith’s belated throw to the equally bemused John Elliott. Thus the EC chairman was outwitted. Headmaster Brian Coulshed treated us to excellent hospitality at the school and in the pub, where John Elliott further outwitted your chairman by initially denying he had taken 5 wickets until so much had been drunk that there was no longer any point in him buying a jug !
vs Forfarshire U19s - won
Another beautiful day in Angus, with an excellent Forthill wicket. Positive batting from the Forfarshire U21s enabled the youngsters to reach 192. Tight bowling restricted Scotland to 16-2 after 10 overs. However a superb innings from guest Tom Cooper of 132 not out including 8 sixes and 15 fours allowed the XL club to win with one over left in the game. An excellent but tense fixture

20th June 2008
vs Ardingly College - won
On a pitch of uneven bounce the Surrey & West Sussex occasional openers Barton (37) and Hartland (50) put on 77 in even time which underpinned a lunchtime score of 129-1. Grierson 43 added to the score but the XL collapse of 5 wickets for 19 runs because of some good bowling particularly from Rayner pegged the flow of runs. XL recovered to post a score of 220. The College were soon in trouble with the opening spell from ‘Storming Norman’ Jones and Boxall resulting in the College being 4 for 7 after the seventh over. The introduction of Peter Hartland made matters worse and the College were dismissed for 73. Hartland had a good day: 50 with the bat and 5 for 11 with the ball.

19th June 2008
vs Beechen Cliff School - draw
On a beautiful day and a handsome ground at Lansdown, graced in the 1970s by Sir Vivian Richards, XL West enjoyed a very close encounter with the main boys’ state school in Bath. Having won the toss and opted to bowl,skipper Fawkner-Corbett was obliged to take the new ball himself and share the opening overs with another swing bowler, Laurie Wells. Neither bowled badly, but the openers Addey and Hilton progressed serenely to 147 before the former was trapped LBW after three bowling changes. The morning had been interrupted by the arrival of the local air ambulance at the adjacent hospital; this and an early lunch may have helped break the concentration of the opposition: several wickets falling quite cheaply to Martin Woodward’s off-spin. Most honourably, Beechen Cliff declared at 195 for 4, thereby virtually guaranteeing XL the same number of overs to succeed or fail in the attempt. The loss of an early wicket to a good slip catch did not deter Phil Haines and candidate Andy Nash from blunting the attack before Richard Hodges joined the latter at the crease. A punchy thirty four from Nash, the new chairman of Somerset CCC and looking like our Somerset hero Justin Langer, put us on target before he was replaced by Giles Clarke, current chairman of ECB. A brief ceremony at lunchtime to celebrate 'Chance to Shine' at the school was led by Giles Clarke. He kept the batting momentum going until Rick Hutchinson shared a partnership of eighty with Hodges, who had begun to flog the school attack freely. To their credit, the school maintained a slow bowler for many overs to encourage attacking play, and they were rewarded as J Addey took three good wickets. Kulwant Mann, deputy head at the school and a guest on the day, added a quick fifteen before the denouement left us with 15 to score off the last three overs. Hodges took us to 195 and two balls to go; but the loss of two wickets in the last two balls denied us glory and left a most honourable draw; the school’s declaration had ensured a thrilling and just finish. To re-quote a cliché: cricket was the winner.
vs Billericay Veterans - draw
After losing an early wicket, Eastern Counties’ Martin Pether and Ash Patel put on 130 runs for the 2nd wicket.
Martin finished on 47 while Ash got to 81 before being stumped. There were fine contributions from Lyndon Price and Mickey Bear before we declared on 236 for 4. Billericay also lost an early wicket before a solid 2nd wicket stand took them towards 3 figures. Both Carlton Joseph and Tony Macdonald-Barker bowled well without any luck. Once Carr had retired with a strained arm and Colin Anderson had bowled Astles the wickets started to fall quite quickly. Anderson finished with 3 for 16 as did Micky Bear, but EC ran out of overs before a win could be secured. It was an enjoyable afternoon, The weather was good, there was a nice tea and the bar was open after the match - what more could you ask?
vs Eltham College - won
A very good game of cricket played in the right spirit. The school won the toss and batted first. They had a steady start but then Kent & East Sussex applied some good fielding and managed to get 2 run outs to remove the opening pair. Some good bowling from Hankin and Hayward made sure that the school were always having to take risks. Barry Smith was very successful behind the stumps taking 4 victims. Some late runs pushed the schools score to 233 after 61 overs. The XL Club started well with Wilks (42) and Boone (65) having a very good start. When these two were out Quantrill and Gould kept the momentum going forward. Eventually the Forty Club reached its target of 243 after 50 overs with the loss of 4 wickets.

18th June 2008
vs City of London School - won
On a windy day in SE12, patient batting on a slow track with little bounce from Russell Shipton(48) and David Spackman (41) ensured that Kent & East Sussex posted a reasonable total against the school for whom A Dabhi took 3 for 9 and A Anjum (1 for 71) from 16 overs of off-spin. In reply, tight bowling from Geoff Burton (2 for 30) and David Hankin (3 for 29) together with three suicidal run outs ensured that the XL Club were always iin control comfortably winning by 62 runs.
vs Glasgow High School - lost
A great game that was lost with only two balls to stumps. Batting first Scotland's innings was built around an 80 run partnership for the second wicket, broken when Charlie Dunlop was stumped trying to reach fifty with a maximum. Another good innings for Girvan taking his season total to 300 runs for the season. A declaration at tea and a sharp shower meant that their would be approximately 30 overs till stumps. A solid opening partnership built the foundation and despite the spin twins of Smith and Stewart taking six wickets between them the school completed a fine win. Five runs were required from the final over and on this occasion the High School rector was not available to close out the innings. The school 8th wicket put on 17 runs from the last three overs from a combination of good running and lusty blows!
vs Reigate Grammar School - lost
Played as a 40 over game because of the late arrival of the school team because of course work. Surrey & West Sussex fell just short in fading light to reach the total by 11 runs despite a splendid 81 by Clive Grierson.

17th June 2008
vs Bloxham School - draw
West Midlands won the toss and elected to field. This proved to be an ill judged decision when after only 10 overs; the two openers for Bloxham had amassed 73! However, Paul Richardson turned the tide by having both openers caught in the same over. Once they had been removed from the attack, things started to return to normal, and wickets fell at regular intervals. Unfortunately, after taking three wickets, Paul Richardson had to go off injured taking a great caught and bowled. The school eventually declared on 185 for 8 at tea. The pick of the batsmen were D Hoodan with 54 and J Cooper 32 not out. In reply, XL started steadily, with the opening pair of Mark Howard and Nick Briggs. However, after Howard went for 8 and Bainton for 2, it was left to John Waters to steady the ship. Nick Briggs completed his second game for XL with another well-crafted 67 and John Waters 40. The pick of the bowlers for Bloxham was T Stephenson with 3 for 36 off 9 overs. The game ended in a creditable draw
vs Hurstpierpoint College - lost
Having been in a commanding position on 90 for 2 wkts just before lunch, Kent & East Sussex then had the most almighty collapse in the last over immediately before lunch losing 4 wickets for just 2 runs and were eventually all out for 113. This was a target that should have been relatively easy to get but it wasn’t quite that way, for although the boys took only 22 overs to reach the target they lost 5 wickets in doing so. If only Kent & East Sussex had made 150 it could so easily have been a close encounter.

16th June 2008
vs Lomond School - won
Another glorious day in what is becoming a very pleasant summer. With the toss won, Scotland went about putting together a strong total. Bruce Girvan led the way ably supported by Ian Shiels but it was David Lotz who upped the anti with a very explosive 69. peter Robertson and Alan Slater got us past 200 and a declaration at tea left Lomond two hour circa 40 overs to win or salvage a draw. Some good solid early batting looked like steering Lomond to the safe haven of a draw but Tom Addyman on debut had other ideas. His first couple of overs did not reflect what was to come as he struck with the last ball of his third. Wickets off ball one, three and four of his fourth meant that he had been on a hat trick twice but had to be happy with four wickets in five balls. The excitement wasn't complete however and a defiant last stand was broken with one ball to stumps and an impressive 5 wicket haul for Addyman! A fine win in a match played with great spirit
vs Woodbridge School - won
Eastern Counties were in serious trouble at 60 – 5. Andrew Morgan and Robert Smith then added 70 for the 6th wicket before Andrew Morgan and Pat Ellerbeck accelerated with a stand of 62. Andrew Morgan completed his first century for 32 years, frequently piercing the school’s defensive field with well timed cover drives. To score a century batting at No. 7 is an amazing achievement – we wonder if anyone batting so low in the order has ever scored a century for the XL Club before? The boys batted cautiously, scoring only 31 off the first 15 overs, and soon started to lose wickets against generally accurate bowling. Jaspal Singh then lured the boys out of their shells, capturing 3 wickets, to set up a tense finish, in which the boys gamely tried to bat out the last 20 overs for a draw. With only two balls to go Cousins’ concentration finally lapsed and Micky Bear took a sharp return catch to secure a convincing victory for The Forty Club.

15th June 2008
vs Sedbergh School - draw
On a beautiful day in a beautiful setting beneath the Howgill Fells the North West faced the unbeaten Sedbergh School whose decision to bat looked not the best on a lifting wicket at 7-1. The school soon took advantage with T Foster (83) & J Oughtred (103*) placing the ball at will which made XL chasing the ball to all quarters of the field. Eventually the school made a generous declaration at 255 – 6. The XL club made steady progress in the chase until R Hope (68) was dismissed off a sharp rising ball at 157-4. Despite valiant efforts the XL club entered the last 20 overs on needing 5 an over to win. Wickets continued to fall and it was left for Cricket Chairman Neil Brindle to see the last over out for a draw. Both teams enjoyed conversation about the game over a drink on the pavilion veranda as the sun set on the Howgills.
vs North Pembrokeshire CC U17s - draw
Having suffered from adverse weather conditions for the last 4 years it was a pleasure to be able to enjoy an excellent game of cricket in glorious sunshine. Wales suffered a major scare in the morning with Brian Jones suffering a traumatic injury involving a pothole, a Tesco trolley and an 80 yr old lady. Showing great fortitude Brian played and although he was unable to keep, he fielded intelligently. Fortunately, we had an able deputy behind the sticks with Staddon stepping into the breach. Whilst he may not have been as nimble as Brian he was, nevertheless, a safe pair of hands. The club got off to a good start with some early wickets and an excellent opening spell by Colin Tucker. An impressive stand between Salter and Banner put the U 17’s on the front foot. The partnership was broken following an impressive catch by Lodge off the bowling of Lewis. Salter went on to make an impressive 100 to give the U17’s a formidable total of 202. The Club’s time in the field was marked by 6 superb catches, the best of which were taken by Morris, Turner & Lodge. As the Club’s innings started L Harris expressed some concern that he would not be able to pad up because B Jones had borrowed his pads. At the time B Jones was in fact in the changing rooms – victim of an unplayable (according to B Jones) first ball. A brilliant 103 from Staddon ably supported by Morris & Griffiths took the Club to the brink of victory.
vs Winscombe CC - lost
A torrential downpour an hour before the start meant that no play was possible until 4pm. A 30-over per side game was agreed and the West opted to bat in the circumstances. A steady partnership of 45 between Mike Plumridge and Rick Hutchinson was then consolidated by Piers McBride’s hard-hitting 54 no on an unhelpful pitch. Our score of 130 for 4 in 30 overs looked defendable despite the Winscombe openers themselves making a fifty stand. The loss of both openers and the fall of the second wicket signalled a sea-change of prospects as Sewa Sibaya, their overseas player from SA, laid about the XL slow bowling and from the 20th over his approach won the game in 25. An enjoyable game eked from unpromising conditions, but the inevitable restrictions and one powerful batsman on the host side meant a defeat by six wickets or 1 run or 5 overs depending upon definitions!

12th June 2008
Inter-District Knockout Trophy 2008
Kent & East Sussex vs Eastern Counties - Eastern Counties won by 80 runs
EC started slowly on a wet wicket against accurate swing bowling from Foulkes and Stevens at this picturesque and quirky ground. Nigel Gadsby paced his innings of 97 well before being well caught by skipper Ron Hart at extra cover. Highlight of Nigel’s innings was a straight six into a car windscreen on the A26. Lowlight of Ron Hart’s day was trying to placate the bemused driver’s irate son. Surprisingly Southborough’s players could not remember the last time a car was hit by a six over the pavilion. Patrick Dewing, Brett Gates and Ilija Krunic accelerated well as the pitch dried, with 59 runs coming off the last 5 overs, taking EC to a formidable score of 245 for 4 off 45 overs. Kent fielded well; Ron Hart set enterprising fields but mysteriously eschewed the opportunity to bowl himself, a mistake which he will tell us cost Kent the game. Glynn Gunning started the Kent innings efficiently but was well caught by John Elliott in the gulley off a full-blooded cut just as Kent needed to accelerate. Ilija Krunic gave us all a lesson in how to catch the ball nonchalantly, plucking one catch one-handed from a height of 10 feet, then brushing his hair and rolling up his sleeves before he caught another. Against generally accurate bowling Kent lost regular wickets and eventually fell 80 runs short. Many thanks to Ron Hart for organising the match with his usual efficiency and good humour and to the Tea Ladies for a splendid spread. A very enjoyable day, well worth the trip to the heart of Kent.

11th June 2008
vs Nailsea CC - won
The West district’s Andy Stephens and John Lindley did their usual opening act of taking wickets and keeping runs under control as only Simon Hopkinson (a Forty Club member!) withstood their consistency on a firm but green pitch. The middle order supported Hopkinson well until Wells and Gorman were introduced with their gentle pace to seduce the rest into giving catches which were impressively taken by several fielders. Nailsea ended with a run out on 179 after 43 overs, leaving XL approximately forty to make 180. This was achieved in 37.5 largely due to John Thackray’s 57* in his first knock of the season, ably assisted by Richard Newport, Richard Gatton and Captain Cornish, who all scored in the twenties. A well-contested match played in the right spirit by two teams of veterans.
vs Kelvinside Academy - draw
A beautiful day, god pitch, fast outfield and at last some runs. Charlie Dunlop (103 no) completed his first ton for Scotland in an innings that lasted 110 balls and contained 12 fours and a six. He and Bob Stickland (64 no) had an unbroken partnership of 167. This allowed the Forty club to declare on 239 - 3. The school made a game of it and had reached 144 -3 before Angus Montgomery (2-24) and Ian Redmond (3-29) put paid to any hopes of the win. On a good pitch however Kelvinside managed a creditable draw in a most enjoyable match
vs Simon Langton GS - draw
Kent & East Sussex batting first had a fine opening stand of 143 between Willie Boone 50 & Robert Warne 76.
Debutant Russell Shipton scored a brisk 31 and held a very good catch. Set 204 to win the school struggled against some excellent Forty Club bowling and equally good fielding and hung on for a well-deserved draw.

10th June 2008
2007 Inter-District Knockout Trophy Final
East Midlands vs Wales - East Midlands won by 7 wkts
The final was played at Stratford on Avon CC. The weather was very good, the track was a batsman’s dream, and lots of locals and tourists turned out to watch. Wales were not at their best and despite putting 37 on the board in 5 overs they then lost 3 wickets in as many more and then were unable to survive their 50 overs, being bowled out for 130 in the 41st over. Bowlers Neil Sparham and Russell Spiers did the damage by removing the right people at the right time and containing the other batsmen – none of whom scored more than 29. The East Midlands reply was quite clinical, lead by M Blatherwick who returned an unbeaten 68 and his skipper Sparham an unbeaten 48. East Midlands won by 7 comfortable wickets. The man of the match award was presented to Russell Spiers for his 4 for 11 from 7 overs. There was lots of good and athletic fielding and some very good keeping on both sides. Obviously the Wales lads were disappointed but everyone enjoyed their day and were in good spirits. Scorecard
vs St Edmund's College - won
Due to exams the school had a young and weak side. They only achieved respectability thanks to a ninth wicket stand by two local cricket coaches. For Eastern Counties, Nigel Gadsby scored a brilliant and aggressive century (113), ably supported by Martin Pether, Micky Bear and Jim Keys.

9th June 2008
vs Dollar Academy - lost
A poor day at the office for Scotland. Despite a good day and a fine pitch the Forty Club batting just didn't get going. 97 all out was a poor performance and was never likely to trouble a very talented Dollar Academy team. Lockhart, Neill and Shiels all got starts but couldn't go on. The school finished us off in 22 overs! At tea the Headmaster was presented with a Forty Club shield to recognise Dollar's achievement as Scottish Team of the Year

5th June 2008
vs Kent Over 50's - draw
Any game that goes to the very last ball can only be described as an excellent game irrespective of the result. Inserted by Kent & East Sussex skipper Ron Hart, Kent Over 50’s found runs hard against an excellent opening spell by John Burnage & Barry Adams with just 9 runs on the board after 10 overs. It was left to two XL Club members Nigel Keess & Gordon Watts on loan to the opposition to take the score to 207: a target that the XL Club felt comfortable with. Openers Glynn Gunning & Matt Quantrill (94) made brisk progress until the loss of Gunning with the score on 46. Further stands resulted in the XL Club needing 80 off the last 15 overs with 7 wickets in hand .The loss of Quantrill 6 short of a well deserved century and the loss of Hart, left the XL Club needing 12 runs to win off the last 3 balls but it was not to be and the match ended in a draw
vs Canford School - won
The XL South innings was dominated by Mark Smith with his 66, ably supported by Dave Streather (31) & D Griffiths (26). A surprisingly youthful XL Club Team impressed in the field and always had the upper hand. Ray Havard got the early breakthrough and the medium pace support bowlers took the game away from Canford. Smith and, in particular, Aylesbury bowled tight and accurate spin bowling and Canford fell 51 runs short of the target.

4th June 2008
vs Kings College, Taunton - lost
A very strong batting line-up gave Kings a huge opportunity to profit from a good pitch and one short boundary. West District’s bowlers performed satisfactorily, but could not cope with the power of four school batsmen, especially the South African Meschede and the England Under 19 player Joss Buttler (whose 50 came in 19 balls). Nobody bowled well or badly and the fielding was keen and competent. 280 looked a massive ask, and so it was when we lost two of our first three batsmen for one run. Yet Andy Ashfold (27) and Rick Hutchinson (44) made the school seamers toil for a while. The introduction of fourteen-years old C Barrett into the attack brought a collapse: his elegant and accurate leg-spin accounted for six wickets as the XL Club slid towards a total of 120 for nine at the end of 40 overs. A defeat by 160 runs, and the final irony of our number 11 being dropped off a sitter on his first ball and the last ball of the match. A fall to earth after three good wins and a reminder that powerful batting in the first innings of an afternoon game is invariably a match-winner.
vs Vale of Glamorgan Colts - won
The XL Wales district pulled off an outstanding win against the Vale of Glamorgan Colts at Penarth. After being put in and slipping to 50-4 against some hostile Colts bowling, the XLs rallied with a stand of 87 between keeper Gareth Owen (52) and opener Phil Haines (54) before Owen fell. Some lusty hitting by Rob Crimp and Colin Tucker took the XL to a good score of 181 before skipper Crimp declared. The Colts innings got off to a slow start against some fine bowling by Colin Tucker 2-25 and debutant Matt Phillips of Cardiff with 1-13. No-one was prepared for what was to follow with the introduction of Scyld Berry to the attack. With a combination of teasing guile and deception Berry proceeded to take 6-63 with his leg spin supported by some fine wicket-keeping by Gareth Owen with 4 stumpings and fine catches by Matt Phillips and Richard Alsept.Wales finally ran out winners in the last over by 34 runs.

29th May 2008
vs Cumbria U17s - won
The Cumbrians opened with two of their North of England players, Miles from Barrow and Atkinson from the host club, Penrith. They set off at a brisk pace taking toll of the North West’s Mark Eggleston who suffered most from the early onslaught as they raced to 60 off 8 overs. However, some careless shots against Welbourne (an occasional spinner) took care of the pair in quick succession with 100 on the board. Littleton & Hyland then set about rebuilding in careful fashion after Keith Roscoe replaced an injured Nigel Barrow. His artistry proved a real test for the trialists that followed as he took 5 for 43 and after those two had fallen it was left to Eddie Read to hold the innings together which he did with great aplomb showing little respect for the XL skipper as he raced to 58 not out with little support from the tail. The XL reply got off to a lively start as Eddie Read, opening the bowling for Cumbria, extracted early lift and bounce, but with little control as he sprayed it about. However, he did manage to hit our Chairman on the side which seemed to unsettle him as he fell shortly after to the other opener, G Hill. Ted Whitehead joined his club colleague Stuart Priestley and treated the small crowd to a controlled innings of deft touches and some occasional lusty blows. At 51 years of age he added two new experiences to his illustrious career – that of wearing a helmet, which he enjoyed and treading on his wicket, which he didn’t. Once Stuart departed it was left to Welbourne to help the visitors reach a respectable 150 before the innings closed with Nigel Barrow unable to bat. A splendid tea was provided by Penrith CC which made the defeat more palatable before retiring to the Robin Hood Tavern in town.

25th May 2008
vs Scotland East U16s - lost
A good forty over contest which was which was much closer than the result suggests. The East Regional Academy batted first and a good opening spell reduced them to 13-2 however a couple of missed chances contributed to a 130 run stand for the third wicket between Mullins and Smith. This was not helped by Scotland's "fifth" bowler going for 74! On a great day however 200 was achievable and a great knock by Richard Donald (97no) very nearly got us there. Unfortunately the top order didn't really contribute and it was left to the tail to try to eke out the winning runs. Richard lost the strike in the last few overs thanks to some excellent tactical bowling and he was left needed to hit the last ball for four to reach a well deserved hundred. A great shot was unfortunately well stopped on the deep cover boundary.

22nd May 2008
vs Monkton Combe School - won
On a flat, lifeless pitch the school made a good start of 40 before losing a wicket. Toby Davies, who batted patiently throughout the school innings, made a well-crafted 83 as his partner S Dewes attacked a varied but vulnerable West bowling attack in which only Peter Saunders managed to collect wickets. The school declaration after 44 overs left XL time for approximately 35 overs, but after a modest start Charlie Samler (68 no) and Richard Newport (56) dominated all the bowlers except M Paynter. Their fine partnership well exceeded a hundred as they chased down the Monkton Combe score before Paynter returned to stem the runs. Monkton Combe teacher Norman Botton overcame any conflict of loyalties by striking eighteen quick runs to win the game with just an over to spare. Well played, both teams. XL were unlikely to lose after the major stand, but Monkton Combe kept the game open by varying the attack and aiming to win rather than close for a draw too early. A good advert for Forty Club versus School cricket and XL West’s third consecutive victory in 2008.
vs Strathallan School - lost
A beautiful day in the rolling hills of Perthshire was the backdrop to a fantastic match at Strathallan School. Spider McLaren won the toss for Scotland and predicted a score of 100-2 at lunch. In fact a wicket right on lunch made the score 118-2, once again the school provided a feast for the occasion and after taking on fuel David Johnston opened up and reached a terrific hundred with 16 fours and 4 sixes. In the scramble to declare the Forty Club lost 6 wickets for 30 runs. However a declared score of 197 looked a good target. The Strathallan openers made a excellent start and at tea were 42 without loss. After tea the Forties struck early with the first of two outstanding catches from Neill. This was followed by a silly run out and another great catch removed the Strathallan danger man Freddy Coleman who is possibly the outstanding underage batsmen in Scotland. a couple of wickets followed and at 125-5 it was game on. A half century stand was broken by another unbelievable catch from Colin Neill amid much astonishment and amusement from his colleagues. The game was won on the back of a solid and stylish 62no from Chris McClelland who crashed the winning runs through the covers and bring a great day to a close.

21st May 2008
vs Bethany School - won
Following a steady start Kent & East Sussex lost both openers with 38 on the board. A stand of 114 between Matt Quantrill 59 & Peter Eames 50 recovered the situation with Quantrill in good form. Quick runs were then the order of the day and wickets fell at regular intervals until a declaration was made with the score 205 for 8. The school bowlers performed well throughout with Gibson the pick with 3 for 35. In reply the school made their intentions plain in scoring 6 an over for the opening 20 overs, however, wickets tumbled particularly to the flight and guile of skipper Ron Hart with a match winning spell of 4 for 24 in just 5 overs. They continued to chase the game but a further fine spell this time from Barry Adams 3 for 22 saw the Forty Club home by 32 runs.
vs Myerscough College - lost
On a difficult surface North West struggled against high quality bowling from the College. Sweeney was quick and soon accounted for Wellings. Dave Stubbings and Fred Brooker-Carey provided some resistance both scoring 17. The only innings of note was Tony Fare who was unluckily out caught for 49. The final total of 144 declared was not enough as the college openers battled through the initial opening spells of Nigel Barrow and Keith Roscoe then took to the change bowlers with relish. Relph was the only casualty caught by new member Simon Foster and Stone remained undefeated on 81 as Myerscough won by 9 wickets.
vs Llanelli School - won
With the Llanelli schools side requiring less than 100 to win with 10 wickets in hand and some 28 overs to go, they could have been forgiven for expecting a comfortable win. However wily XL Wales skipper Mike Staddon – back at the scene of many past glories - orchestrated a magnificent victory from the jaws of almost certain defeat. Crucially it was Mike Lloyd who made the first breakthrough removing the aggressive Rhys Lane (who scored a century in this fixture in 2007). Lloyd and Peter Betterley both bowled excellently from the short tennis court end and were ably supported by Chris Hudson who maintained pressure with his mean off-spinners . As the run rate increased wickets fell at regular intervals as the XL’s fielding altered from the ridiculous to the sublime. The Schools side remained well on course until 2 catches in the deep from debutant Glean Letheren and 2 run outs from Peter (don’t take one to me) Betterley tipped the balance firmly in the Club’s favour. Earlier in the day Wyn Lloyd and John James gave the club a bright start against some testing seam bowling which accounted for Hudson’s scalp after a mistimed hook. Thereafter it was Staddon again who held the innings together. Some good hitting by Mike Lloyd allowed Staddon to declare at exactly the right time and secure a 9 run win later in the day.
vs Glasgow Academy - draw
A much better batting display from Scotland than of late. Good weather, good pitch 90-1 at Lunch was a great platform and Ian Shiels, Charlie Dunlop and debutant Peter Robertson boosted that to 209 allowing the Forty Club to declare 40 minutes before tea. Ian Shiels posted a personal best and carried his bat through the innings. Peter Robertson making his first appearance hit 46 of 22 balls before being stumped right on the declaration. A good start from the school getting to 38 without loss was spoiled with the loss of three wickets in the two overs before tea. Again a good start after tea pushed the score to 106 -3 but any hopes of the school forcing a win was extinguished again with the loss of three quick wickets. A good game and tremendous hospitality from Glasgow Academy. The school were treated to an example of excellent catching and the Forty Club over rate of 18 an hour against the school's 13!!
vs Bearwood School - lost
Batting first XL South District were reduced to 60 – 4 despite M Plumbridge’s 28 and before A Havard (71 no) and P Quested (29 no) put on a 100 partnership. XL declared at 160 – 4 from 39 overs.