OSSC 183 for 1
Rayleigh 66 for 4
Rayleigh lost by 117 runs.
Team: Ben E. (Capt), George C., Ben L., James H., Ben C, Nathan B., Cameron G., Sam and Aaron.
OSSC U13s batted first and their first three players retired undefeated. Their opening bats were a bit older than our bowling and they played the sweep shot to good effect. We also gave away quite a few extras.
Our fielding was improved on last week (although at times it was unclear who was setting the positions). With the U13Bs nearly everyone wants to input (which is good) – all I need to do is allow them to create some order. Ben E was captain for the second time (so will probably be stood down next match). We did have new wicketkeepers – Cameron did the first 10 and Aaron the second part.
OSSCs scored 183 for 1 (with 3 retired) from 20 overs which was a big target. The sun had also gone in making my decision to wear shorts look hasty and ill-judged.
During our batting we were a lot more disciplined than last week. The ball kept low, there was some rain and quite a breeze so caution was important. A couple of wickets fell reasonably quickly then Nathan and Ben L had a stable parnership which, whilst not high scoring, was very impressive. We may need to work on scoring, but most importantly they both stayed and batted for a decent period. Possible Test batsman of the future?
When Nathan was out towards the end George took his place and played solidly being beaten by a straight delivery that bounced three times before it hit the wicket … but only twice before the popping crease which means it was a legal delivery. Ben E then saw the innings out with Ben L.
Overall an improvement on last week, most people seemed to enjoy themselves, the weather must get better soon and maybe next week we will have 11 players.