Match Report

First XI vs Birkenhead St Mary

First of all, a big thanks to those who were able and willing to make the trip to Birkenhead for the first round of the Cheshire Cup. The team had 5 players who were 16 or under so I am particularly grateful that they put up their hands to turn out for the club.

Secondly, to Birkenhead St Mary's for their hospitality which was second to none - great chilli guys.

Clearly, the above comments indicate that there was not much to write home about on the pitch! Unfortunately, I was unable to win the toss which led to us having to bat first on an uncovered, and rather wet, pitch.

However, at the point Khawar Iqbal blazed the first ball of the match straight back past the bowler along the ground for 4, there were no real signs what lay ahead. Indeed, HBCC were 55-1 before capitulating to just 85 all out against, with respect, what was not a premier league attack.

However, the positives came after the tea break. A fantastic 6 over spell from Ben Hicks (1-9) really cheered up a glum skipper. A series of testing deliveries were finally rewarded when Joe Fretwell-Walsh took a doozy of a catch at point to dismiss arguably their best batsman. In truth, he could have had a sack full.

Alex Robinson toiled away causing confusion in the hosts ranks but with little luck. His one wicket was probably a little too late. Joe Fretwell Walsh replaced Hicks and again bowled well testing out the unusual - but highly effective! - technique of Davenport but didn't get the reward.

HBCC Highlights:

Khawar Iqbal 40

Ben Hicks 1-9

Alex Robinson 1-26