Friday Five-for Thriller

Timperley U13 76- all out (14.5) U13 Buffaloes 78-2 (12.3)

As cricket parents we all look forward to Friday night cricket, the balmy summer evenings, the open bar, the challenging score board… but this evening at Timperley challenged on all counts.
As the May wind howled and the crowd and umpires searched for layers… Didsbury lost the toss and started the game in the field. But there was brightness to follow as Basil took the first wicket from the 3rd ball of the game, and just 2 balls later deliver a ball which the batsman edged straight into Adam's gloves – a sublime opening over!
Rishi took the ball and bowled another tight 2 overs – giving away just 6 runs off his 2 overs. He was supported by strong fielding from Joe and Sam on the boundary. In the absence of a score board – apparently locked away beyond the juniors reach – the scorers agreed on 14 for 2 from 4
Oliver took the ball, and had 2 challenging overs as their early batsmen punished short balls. Aiden, on his first appearance of the season, bowled a good tight over giving away just 2 runs. 27 for 2 off 7.
After another strong performance in the field George took the ball taking his first wicket with a catch from Rahul and his second with a clean ball onto the middle stump. 54 for 4 from 10.
As the parents were discussing the merits of the Londis for a second drink – bar closed due to private function(!) – Joe took the ball, sensing a lot to prove after a challenging game the previous evening, Joe was undeterred. His first wicket was a clean ball to take the scorer’s son for a duck… (note to self be careful with the celebration volume and enthusiasm!!) Luuk was superb in the field – his enthusiasm and passion for the game clear. He positive chat keeping Joe tuned in to the game… as Joe takes the ball for his second over and with his first ball takes his 2nd wicket…. Wickets 3 and 4 soon followed for Joe. It was now 74 for 8 from 13.
Rahul took the ball and took the 9th wicket - clean on middle stump – before handing the ball back to Joe….
And he delivered taking his 5th wicket with bails flying again… will we see another five-fer this season? Take the match ball Joe!
Timperley all out for 76 from 14.5 overs.
Didsbury stepped up to bat in fading light and falling rain…. Adam and George opening facing a difficult bowling attack George was soon caught, and Basil came in. Expectations weighed heavy on Basil but he was not to disappoint hitting a 6 with his first ball. Adam, was again soon caught for just 3 and Rishi came in, DCC were now 32 for 2 off 7.
The crowd were then treated to another splendid batting display from Basil – who soon retired with another 6 – on 34. (strike rate of 178)
Didsbury were now 49 for 2 off 9… it was going well!
Rahul came in and him and his brother continued to put in a solid, scoring performance. The rain came and the coaches pushed for speedy turn-arounds Rishi and Rahul delivered the required runs. DCC closed on 78 for 2 off 12.6 overs.
A brilliant effort from the Buffalos – a real team effort in the field and some superb batting but stand out performance was Joe's 5 wicket haul.