Mayfield 3XI V Bells Yew Green 2XI

The stage was set, top of the table clash at the home of our cricket (Five Ashes). We weren’t going to die wondering. The fact is: who ever won, gained promotion. On a rain affected wicket, MCC skipper announced, “All Together “, Henry took a while to understand! BYG were batting. Adam Howard blew the opener away first ball with a short throat ball duly accepted by Henry Underwood at
point. What an amazing start! With the crowd building, the atmosphere was electric. The second wicket fell in the fifth over off Sam Williams, a fantastic low catch by William Nicklin. As usual in cricket, came a response from BYG. With a few missed chances, we went to drinks with the opposition 89-2, Roughley and Allum setting the stage for a big score.
The next ten overs were crucial to our ultimate victory, calling for harsh words from the skipper to inspire our bowlers to lay the pressure on the opposition. Whilst the fielding was good, we could all do better. Sam Williams (3-40) on his third spell duly obliged, with the wicket of Roughley (51). The introduction of Parker changed the game, with three wickets in four overs, finishing with figures of 3-40. BYG were left toiling at 165-8 as it was time for Madhav to blow away the remaining two wickets. BYG were all out 165.

GLORIOUS TEAS were then served for all to enjoy, especially the partisan crowd.

Instructions were given: WE bat the overs; the WIN was ours. Obviously, Henry was not listening. Like a bull in a China shop, he was out in the first over. MCC struggling 3-51, top order back in the hutch, only Charlie hanging on. The dismissal of Alaxander brought in Madhav (39) which brought the impetus we so desperately needed. His three fours and a six began the fightback, the game was on! Charlie Phelan (52) was our rock and his dismissal gave Adam Howard freedom to play his natural game. Adam’s 11 ball 50 consisted of seven sixes and two fours. We reached our target in the 30th over. Victory was ours- promotion! Celebrations (and lots of Budweiser’s) were to follow.
There have been many noteworthy magical moments throughout the season, however our success ultimately came down to a team effort. All for one, and one is for all.

A big thank you to Bryan for producing result wickets and Sue Wright and her team for phenomenal teas.

Rajesh Sharma