Dominant performance sees Village break away

The 1st team got back to winning ways following last week’s outrageous cancellation by Hexton CC. Visitors North Enfield won the toss, decided to bat and got off to a bright and breezy start. At 40 for 0 in the 7th over, it looked the Village might finally have a game on their hands but alas not. It turned out to be an entirely forgettable game. In fact at times it was a struggle to stay focused in the field. Once the openers were removed, only a couple of the other batsmen arrived with any attacking intent. Most of the others prodded and poked around and the innings frequently stumbled along at about 1 run per over. It took the visitors 45 overs to amass their finishing total of 125. Wickets were shared around on this occasion, with Naz Asif (3-6) and Richard Downes (2-6) probably the pick of the bowlers. Majid Asif (2-22) and Andrew Potter (2-13) also produced successful spells. For once, the usually dependable opening pair were a little below par. Dave Overton (0-41) and Saahil Mehra (1-29) were not quite at the races but thankfully the Village have plenty of depth in their bowling attack to call upon.

It took just over 20 overs to chase down the meagre total but a disappointing 4 wickets were lost along the way. Naz Asif with a typically rapid 33 and Marcus Cara with a thumping 40 not out were the batsmen who carried most of the load. The pitch did not play well and it deteriorated throughout the day. 18 byes in the 2nd innings were testament to this. Which makes the performance of our own ever reliable wicket keeper even more impressive. Steve Pullen’s faultless display was the 5th occasion this season on which he has managed to remain free from any Byes in the innings. A remarkable feat.

Other results also went well for the Village and we now have a significant 47 point lead at the top. It is 1st vs 2nd next week as we visit Old Haberdashers in the last of the traditional split overs format matches.