With a reputation of defending totals, batting first appeared the wisest decision, on a wicket seeming to offer the seamers very little assistance, or so it would seem.

This proved the case as Henry Wright and Jeremy Duncan put on an opening stand of 64, and Jacob Vanner kept the good work rolling from three. Hamish Wright and Matt Hudson kept the score ticking in the middle whilst Tim Harrison steeled the lower order. With the College coach, Warren Lidstone, suffering the ignominy of having to retire hurt, a couple of lusty blows from Richard McGuire saw us through to a total of 235/7. All going to plan thus far.

Ed Wright, opening for College, succumbed to the ball of the day from Adam Hastilow and Clarke was soon to follow. From there James Southby and Harry Chamberlain completely lost ight of the script, scoring 65 and 55 respectively. Blue Hamel then chimed in, and at 165/3 their task appeared an easy one. From that point on, needing less than five an over, there were a few explosions of the mind which created pressure on their lower order. The explosions were assisted by a return to the crease of Hastilow, and some very tight lines by Richard McGuire and Riley Wilson. Man of the match Henry Wright bowled with control and guile, taking 3/41. At the other end Adam Hastilow finished with 4/41; his pace proving a bit much at crucial moments.

I was impressed by the opposition’s demeanour during the match and they were well led by Harry Chamberlain.