Match Report
Crusaders paid their first visit to Oakwood Hill, returning victorious after a good bowling and fielding display, had enabled them to defend a slightly scrappy target of 156. Spud won the toss and elected to bat on a grassy track. It soon became apparent that the pitch was a little temperamental and most definitely bowler friendly.
Shakil, promoted to opener, having edged one through the slips, perished soon after when a repeat shot was well taken at gully and Wajih followed soon after, mis-timing a lofted drive. With arguably two of our most talented batsmen back in the pavilion, a period of re-building was necessary.
Chand joined Jagdesh in the middle and together they smoothed troubled waters, with a stand of 55. Without doubt the highlight of the innings was Herman Singh running his Dad out on 49 after Johnny G had called him for a risky single. Useful contributions from John, Damon - including a six to get off the mark - and Daljit enabled us to post 156 as a target.
Oakwood Hill went about the task in positive fashion, happy to play aggresively at just about every delivery, but although runs came quickly it was at a cost. Shakil made the early breakthrough, removing the quirky opener who had caused some amusement by taking guard with his feet, let alone his bat way outside off-stump. However it was Sam who did the damage, taking three quick wickets, including a 'whodat' appeal for LBW.
Spud joined the wicket-takers with three of his own, aided by a couple of fine catches from Harry at mid on and after that Oakwood Hill's chase fell away. Perhaps a weekend that had seen both their two elevens win respective leagues had taken it's toll. A catch from Wajih off the erratic bowling of Jason - who had regaled us with news of his career best figures of 6-11 the previous day - was the final nail in Oakwood Hill's coffin, as they were bowled out for 93.
