Mike Smith and George Batty with umpires Chris Palmer and Steve Phillips after the toss at Mundford
18th August 2014
Norfolk Over 70’s vrs Worcestershire- Played at Mundford on Monday 18th August 2014.
Norfolks final league fixture of the season took place at Mundford on Monday 18th August on a day when rain was forecast for late in the day. Worcestershire players arrived in dribs and drabs as a result of traffic problems on the A11 and the match start was delayed. After consultation with the two umpires it was agreed that there was still time to fit in the allotted overs and the toss took place. With the forecast of rain and a green wicket, both sides wanted to field first and once again (7 out of 8) Mike Smith lost the toss and Norfolk were inserted by the Worcestershire Captain, George Batty.
Missing opener Mike Delf through injury, Mike Smith promoted Nobby Cobb to number 1 providing a left/right hand combination to negate the usual miserly octarian Tony Neal. From the start this appeared to work as Neal’s first three delivery’s were down the leg side and Nobby cashed in scoring 6 off these delivery’s. 6-0 became 6-1 when Mike Smith was comprehensibly bowled second ball by M.Mudway.
Mike Martin next in at three however he was unable to replicate his run scoring of last week and departed with the score on 24, bowled by M.Mudway for just 3 with the score at 24.
Nobby Cobb appeared to be very comfortable at the crease with a particular liking for Neal, scoring three boundaries off him with the sweep shot. Dereck Dewson had replaced Martin and concentrated on seeing off the opening bowlers, taking 18 balls to get off the mark.
It was at this point that Nobby Cobb ‘had a senior moment’ and was run out in a bizarre manner. Brookes had just come on and his first two deliveries went down the leg side. From the second, Nobby inexplicably set off for a run, not immediatelly realizing that wicket keeper Price had the ball in his hands. Although he tried to regain his ground he was left stranded as a very surprised wicket keeper removed the bails. Nobby (16) said he thought his partner had called for a run as he heard a shout however this was not the case.26-3 and 12 overs gone suddenly became 25-4 when Gerald Cooke was adjudged lbw and he departed for a duck. A partnership was desperately needed if any sort of challenge could be posed but after batting for just another 15 balls, Mike Barnham was caught by Batty for just 3.Dewson was batting with restraint and sensibly taking no risks even though the run rate was under 3 an over. The partnership that was so desperately needed came when Stan Fowle joined Dewson and 68 valuable runs were added before Fowle became another lbw victim for a fine 25 from 54 balls received. David James survived three ducks in a row when he was dropped first ball by the bowler and went on to 7 from just 8 balls before giving the bowler a simple return catch. Dewson was still there and reached hi second half century in successive games and received excellent support from Carl Yallop (15 from 19)as they added 18 runs with the overs running out. Yallop departed with the score on 137-8 and it was left to Graham Harrop(3*) to see the innings out with Dewson (58*) as the innings ended on 147-8 after 45 overs. Dereck Dewson has got better with every game and has ended the season with a batting average of 75.5 and has top scored with 299 total runs from just 7 games played.
At least there was an outside chance to win the game. The bowling had to be tight and the fielding needed to be much better than the first 20 overs of the last game. David Gale and Graham Harrop opened the bowling and were’ on the money’ from the start. Gale was bowling the best he has bowled all season and received his reward in his third over when he bowled the dangerous Ebbage with a ball that cut back and took his off stump. 13-1 became 25-1 after 12 overs and at this point Worcestershire were behind the rate. Harrup bowled 7 overs for a miserly 16 runs and was replaced by D.Dewson and Gale by Carl Yallop. The fielding was tight and when Dewson bowled Brookes there were just 42 runs on the board with 18 overs gone. Middleton at number three looked the part and hit the ball hard and was well supported by D.Smith who actually didn’t look as though he would survive too long however he hit the loose ball hard and had accumulated 31 runs when the rain came. Middleton had moved to 38 from 63 deliveries and the score stood at 108-2 after 30 overs. The umpires started the 31st over however it was both extremely dark and the rain increased and with just two balls bowled, the umpires took the teams off. At this point it was immediately obvious that there would be no play and the game was decided on run rate, the umpires awarding Worcestershire a 10 run win.
Once again we were well looked after by Mundford Cricket Club and our thanks go to Robin and his team. Thanks guys.
Norfolk finished the season in 4th place in this 5 team division. Whilst expecting to struggle against both Suffolk and Worcestershire, Victories were expected against both Hertfordshire and Warwickshire. Injuries inevitably played their part and whilst batsmen could be replaced, losing a bowler proved catastrophic. The introduction of Carl Yallop towards the end of the season reduced the load on the attack but with due respect to the ‘fringe bowlers’ we were always one bowler short. In the main, the batting was ok with three of the top four scoring in excess of 250 runs averaging over 30 and mike Delf would have been up there had it not been for injury. However the surprise package of the season was Dereck Dawson who only started to play half way through the season ad proved to be an extremely competent batsmen and more than useful change bowler. He was awarded the Man of the Season accolade after the Worcestershire game and went home with a vintage bottle of red wine (£2.99 from ALDI)
Nobby Cobb
Norfolk Over 70’s vrs Hertfordshire Over 70’s- Played at Mundford on Tuesday 5th August 2014.
A hot and humid day at Munford where Norfolk Over70’s entertained Hertfordshire on Tuesday August 5th and were hoping for revenge after losing to the same opposition two weeks ago. A dry and flat well prepared batting strip and a fast outfield promised a run feast and both captains were determined to bat on winning the toss. Mike Smith lost again and Norfolk were in the field again.
Dave Gale returned from injury and with Carl Yarrup and Graham Harrup the front line bowling attack looked the strongest it has all season and it was hoped that an early breakthrough could be made. Having started cautiously, adding just 13 from the first six overs, both Mitchell and Wilson, helped by some very poor fielding scored at will, taking the score to 70-0 at the 15 over drinks break. M.Smith was ringing the changes with his bowlers with little success and the opening batsmen soon brought up their individual half centuries as the score raced past the 100 mark. It was difficult to see where a wicket was going to come from as both batsmen appeared in total control however in the 26th over, with the score on 150, Carl Yallop achieved the breakthrough, trapping Wilson (60) in front of his stumps. With the fall of this wicket there was a marked improvement in the fielding and only 10 more runs were added before Mitchell departed bowled Dewson for 78. Morris and Dexter at the crease, 160 on the board and 16 overs to go. It looked as though a big score was likely, possibly 270+ however tight bowling and improved fielding restricted both batsmen, especially Dexter, who struggled against Harrup. Eventually after 33 balls Dexter went for just 15 bowled Harrup and one end opened up. Bassill, Holt and Rasheed departed quickly scoring just 2 between them and although Morris remained not out on 39 along with skipper Scott on 5, the resultant score of just 224 was a little disappointing for the visitors.
During the course of the Hertfordshire innings, Mike Delf damaged his Achilles and did not feel as though he could run and it was decided that he should drop down the order. D.Dewson was physically struggling having bowled his 9 overs at the end of the innings so Nobby Cobb was promoted to open the innings with skipper Smith. The target was quite simple, 5 an over would win it but a good start was essential. 35 from 7, right on target however Cobb feathered one to the keeper and went for 16 off his 17 balls. Mike Martin came in at three and the score progressed to 65 by the 16th over before Smith (25 from 43 balls) was dismissed when Raseed hung on to a stunning catch at mid off. D.Dewson partially recovered came in at 4 and together with Martin added 106 for the next wicket from just 20 overs. Martin reached his half century from 93 balls and was promptly bowled next ball. Dewson looked completely drained and the running between wickets suffered as a result. However he took on all the bowlers wherever possible and the result was in the balance and more likely to end up with a Norfolk win whilst he remained at the crease. With two overs to go 17 runs were required and 9 came from the first 4 balls of surprise choice of bowler, M Dexter, however he took the prize wicket of the now dog tired Dewson (95 from just 89 balls), bowling him as he attempted a big hit. M.Delf was sent in in the hope that his big hitting might get the 8 runs required but in the event he only faced two of the next 7 balls and the innings ended just 5 runs short of victory.
Once again Norfolk lost a game that they should have won. The first 22 overs of the day left much to be desired on the fielding front and the bowlers needed to exercise more control of line and length. The second half was much much better and the game had been pulled back as a result. The loss of M.Delf as an opening bat was also a contribritary factor in the run chase however both M.Martin and D Dewson put Norfolk in with a great chance of victory sadly to no avail.
This loss virtually ensures Norfolk in 4th position in a 5 team league
Hertfordshire 224-6 (45 overs). Norfolk 219-4 (45 overs)
A hot and humid day at Munford where Norfolk Over70’s entertained Hertfordshire on Tuesday August 5th and were hoping for revenge after losing to the same opposition two weeks ago. A dry and flat well prepared batting strip and a fast outfield promised a run feast and both captains were determined to bat on winning the toss. Mike Smith lost again and Norfolk were in the field again.
Dave Gale returned from injury and with Carl Yarrup and Graham Harrup the front line bowling attack looked the strongest it has all season and it was hoped that an early breakthrough could be made. Having started cautiously, adding just 13 from the first six overs, both Mitchell and Wilson, helped by some very poor fielding scored at will, taking the score to 70-0 at the 15 over drinks break. M.Smith was ringing the changes with his bowlers with little success and the opening batsmen soon brought up their individual half centuries as the score raced past the 100 mark. It was difficult to see where a wicket was going to come from as both batsmen appeared in total control however in the 26th over, with the score on 150, Carl Yallop achieved the breakthrough, trapping Wilson (60) in front of his stumps. With the fall of this wicket there was a marked improvement in the fielding and only 10 more runs were added before Mitchell departed bowled Dewson for 78. Morris and Dexter at the crease, 160 on the board and 16 overs to go. It looked as though a big score was likely, possibly 270+ however tight bowling and improved fielding restricted both batsmen, especially Dexter, who struggled against Harrup. Eventually after 33 balls Dexter went for just 15 bowled Harrup and one end opened up. Bassill, Holt and Rasheed departed quickly scoring just 2 between them and although Morris remained not out on 39 along with skipper Scott on 5, the resultant score of just 224 was a little disappointing for the visitors.
During the course of the Hertfordshire innings, Mike Delf damaged his Achilles and did not feel as though he could run and it was decided that he should drop down the order. D.Dewson was physically struggling having bowled his 9 overs at the end of the innings so Nobby Cobb was promoted to open the innings with skipper Smith. The target was quite simple, 5 an over would win it but a good start was essential. 35 from 7, right on target however Cobb feathered one to the keeper and went for 16 off his 17 balls. Mike Martin came in at three and the score progressed to 65 by the 16th over before Smith (25 from 43 balls) was dismissed when Raseed hung on to a stunning catch at mid off. D.Dewson partially recovered came in at 4 and together with Martin added 106 for the next wicket from just 20 overs. Martin reached his half century from 93 balls and was promptly bowled next ball. Dewson looked completely drained and the running between wickets suffered as a result. However he took on all the bowlers wherever possible and the result was in the balance and more likely to end up with a Norfolk win whilst he remained at the crease. With two overs to go 17 runs were required and 9 came from the first 4 balls of surprise choice of bowler, M Dexter, however he took the prize wicket of the now dog tired Dewson (95 from just 89 balls), bowling him as he attempted a big hit. M.Delf was sent in in the hope that his big hitting might get the 8 runs required but in the event he only faced two of the next 7 balls and the innings ended just 5 runs short of victory.
Once again Norfolk lost a game that they should have won. The first 22 overs of the day left much to be desired on the fielding front and the bowlers needed to exercise more control of line and length. The second half was much much better and the game had been pulled back as a result. The loss of M.Delf as an opening bat was also a contribritary factor in the run chase however both M.Martin and D Dewson put Norfolk in with a great chance of victory sadly to no avail.
This loss virtually ensures Norfolk in 4th position in a 5 team league
Hertfordshire 224-6 (45 overs). Norfolk 219-4 (45 overs)
Hertfordshire Over 70’s vrs Norfolk Over 70’s- Played at Preston on Thursday 23rd July 2014.
A beautiful warm and slightly humid summer’s day started with the majority of the Norfolk Over 70’s eating a very nice lunch at the George IV pub in Baldock. Arriving at the lovely picturesque ground at Preston the wicket looked well prepared with a slightly green tinge to it. Bearing in mind the game the previous day at Halstead, the hot and sticky conditions and the fact that a least one member of the Norfolk contingent wanted to get home in time to watch Big Brother, Mick Smith managed to convince the Hertfordshire Skipper that it was in everyone’s interest to reduce the game to 40 overs. Having agreed to this, Mick promptly lost the toss and Norfolk were put into bat.
Mike Smith and Mike Delf opened the batting and found runs hard to come by against Siggy Cragwell and G.Bassill. Delf was proving to be the most aggressive of the pair however only 32 runs had been scored of the first 10 overs when Delf was bowled, the ball dropping of his thigh pad and body onto his stumps. Debutant Joe Perry (no relation to his 60’s two’s namesake) came and scored 8 from 21 before a slow motion stumping ended his innings in the 20th over with the score on 55-2. Half the innings over but well below the run rate required to pose a competitive score. N Cobb joined his skipper and the tempo of the innings increased straight away especially the running between the wickets. 35 from the next 6 overs before Smith (28 from 73 balls) was well caught by I Holt off the bowling of T.Foster. D.Dawson next in, two left handers at the crease, and just 14 overs left. A couple of sighters then Dawson took on the bowlers 29 runs coming of just that many balls in a 49 run partnership. Cobb was doing his bit, keeping the scoreboard ticking over and managed to get Dave Etheridge running(often against his better judgment) before he to perished in the chase of runs. He holed out at deep cover of skipper Scott. However the score had moved on to 150-4 with two overs remaining. Cooke got off the mark and at the start of the final over the score had moved on to 155. Cobb hit 2 of both the 1st and 2nd balls of the over but was bowled next ball heaving across the line for 49 from just 58 balls. James got 2 balls at the wicket before being bowled for his second consecutive ‘Duck’ and remains in possession of ‘Daffy’ until the next game. Mike Barnhan had just the one ball which he got away for a couple and the innings closed on 162-7 after 40 overs.
A respectful if slightly below par score on what turned out to be a very good batting strip. Although perhaps 20 runs short it did at least offer the bowlers something providing they could bowl well and that the fielders backed them up.
Selected from the Over 70’s Academy side (60’s two’s) Carl Yallop was making his first league appearance and opened the bowling with G.Harrup. B.Mitchell and I Holt opened the batting and unlike the Norfolk openers got off to a reasonable start before Harrop settled into a miserly spell that brought him figures of 8-2-1-13. Holt went with the score on 16, caught by Smith of Harrup and at the 10 over mark; Herts were 33-1, having just 1 more run than Norfolk had at this point. D.James was brought into the attack and although he took a wicket in his three over spell, he was struggling with both line and length. By this time, the ever dangerous Dexter had arrived to partner Michell and without doing anything spectacular had took the score to 70 at the halfway point. Smith was using all his bowlers in an attempt to get the desperately needed wicket however that didn’t arrive until 118 runs had been scored as Delf bowled Mitchell (45 of 85balls) with 9 overs to go. 45 runs needed at 5 an over, surely Norfolk could defend this. Dexter was now showing what a good consistent run scorer he is as he effectively took the game away from Norfolk when he savaged James, taking 17 from one over. The end came in the 37th over leaving Dexter 52 not out and C Croucher 17 not out with Hertfordshire 163-4. The irony of this is that Skipper M.Smith had bowled just 1 over taking a wicket for 3 runs and decided to give James the over that went for 17 instead of bowling it himself.
This was a game that Norfolk most definitely should and could have won. They put themselves into a realistic position after a slow start. Unfortunately the fielding was a bit below par and some of the bowling left a lot to be desired. Now Norfolk must beat Hertfordshire at home or settle for finishing second from bottom of the five team league.
Nobby Cobb
A beautiful warm and slightly humid summer’s day started with the majority of the Norfolk Over 70’s eating a very nice lunch at the George IV pub in Baldock. Arriving at the lovely picturesque ground at Preston the wicket looked well prepared with a slightly green tinge to it. Bearing in mind the game the previous day at Halstead, the hot and sticky conditions and the fact that a least one member of the Norfolk contingent wanted to get home in time to watch Big Brother, Mick Smith managed to convince the Hertfordshire Skipper that it was in everyone’s interest to reduce the game to 40 overs. Having agreed to this, Mick promptly lost the toss and Norfolk were put into bat.
Mike Smith and Mike Delf opened the batting and found runs hard to come by against Siggy Cragwell and G.Bassill. Delf was proving to be the most aggressive of the pair however only 32 runs had been scored of the first 10 overs when Delf was bowled, the ball dropping of his thigh pad and body onto his stumps. Debutant Joe Perry (no relation to his 60’s two’s namesake) came and scored 8 from 21 before a slow motion stumping ended his innings in the 20th over with the score on 55-2. Half the innings over but well below the run rate required to pose a competitive score. N Cobb joined his skipper and the tempo of the innings increased straight away especially the running between the wickets. 35 from the next 6 overs before Smith (28 from 73 balls) was well caught by I Holt off the bowling of T.Foster. D.Dawson next in, two left handers at the crease, and just 14 overs left. A couple of sighters then Dawson took on the bowlers 29 runs coming of just that many balls in a 49 run partnership. Cobb was doing his bit, keeping the scoreboard ticking over and managed to get Dave Etheridge running(often against his better judgment) before he to perished in the chase of runs. He holed out at deep cover of skipper Scott. However the score had moved on to 150-4 with two overs remaining. Cooke got off the mark and at the start of the final over the score had moved on to 155. Cobb hit 2 of both the 1st and 2nd balls of the over but was bowled next ball heaving across the line for 49 from just 58 balls. James got 2 balls at the wicket before being bowled for his second consecutive ‘Duck’ and remains in possession of ‘Daffy’ until the next game. Mike Barnhan had just the one ball which he got away for a couple and the innings closed on 162-7 after 40 overs.
A respectful if slightly below par score on what turned out to be a very good batting strip. Although perhaps 20 runs short it did at least offer the bowlers something providing they could bowl well and that the fielders backed them up.
Selected from the Over 70’s Academy side (60’s two’s) Carl Yallop was making his first league appearance and opened the bowling with G.Harrup. B.Mitchell and I Holt opened the batting and unlike the Norfolk openers got off to a reasonable start before Harrop settled into a miserly spell that brought him figures of 8-2-1-13. Holt went with the score on 16, caught by Smith of Harrup and at the 10 over mark; Herts were 33-1, having just 1 more run than Norfolk had at this point. D.James was brought into the attack and although he took a wicket in his three over spell, he was struggling with both line and length. By this time, the ever dangerous Dexter had arrived to partner Michell and without doing anything spectacular had took the score to 70 at the halfway point. Smith was using all his bowlers in an attempt to get the desperately needed wicket however that didn’t arrive until 118 runs had been scored as Delf bowled Mitchell (45 of 85balls) with 9 overs to go. 45 runs needed at 5 an over, surely Norfolk could defend this. Dexter was now showing what a good consistent run scorer he is as he effectively took the game away from Norfolk when he savaged James, taking 17 from one over. The end came in the 37th over leaving Dexter 52 not out and C Croucher 17 not out with Hertfordshire 163-4. The irony of this is that Skipper M.Smith had bowled just 1 over taking a wicket for 3 runs and decided to give James the over that went for 17 instead of bowling it himself.
This was a game that Norfolk most definitely should and could have won. They put themselves into a realistic position after a slow start. Unfortunately the fielding was a bit below par and some of the bowling left a lot to be desired. Now Norfolk must beat Hertfordshire at home or settle for finishing second from bottom of the five team league.
Nobby Cobb
Wednesday 23 July - M H Two Counties O 70s v Norfolk O 70s at Halstead CC (Timed Game)
M H Two Counties 231 for 5 dec G Penny 119no, R Kemp 48, J Stuck 34. M Martin 3-39, P Ranger 2-66
Norfolk 190 for 3 R Norman 90no, J Hansell 29. C Simmons 1-35, B Turley 1-30, R Powell 1-25
Match Drawn.
On yet another scorching day at the beautiful Halstead ground, batsmen once again held sway whilst conditions were in their favour. Batting first the M H Two Counties got off to a solid start with both John Stuck and Badger Ball putting on a good start. When these two were dismissed it was left to Graham Penny to dominate proceedings. After a slow start Graham struck the ball to all corners with some elegant shots in his undefeated 119. Skipper Richard Kemp aided and abetted with a well struck 49 thus enabling the Two Counties to declare on 231. Norfolk's bowlers never gave in and both M Martin (3-39) and P Ranger (2-66) put in good shifts.
Norfolk were always behind the asking rate and never looked likely to overhaul the Two Counties total, bowlers Russ Abbott, Brian Turley and Chris Simmons always looked likely to put the lid on things but coudn't break through some determined Norfolk resistance. R Norman struck a measured unbeaten 90 backed up well by J Hansell 29 in Norfolk's total of 190. An interesting drawn game played in the usual spirit by these two old rivals at the welcoming Halstead Club.
John Hansell
Norfolk Over 70's vrs Suffolk 17th July 2014
Suffolk Over 70’s vrs Norfolk Over 70’s at Ingham on 17th July 2014.
League leaders Suffolk arrived at Ingham intent on continuing their winning ways against the ‘old enemy’ Norfolk. Just one win away from a play off place, they had a strong line up reinforced by eligible players currently playing regular for their over 60 team.
Winning the toss, skipper Mike Smith decided to bat on what looked like a perfect batting strip and hoped to keep Suffolk out in the sun and heat for the full 45 overs. Smith and Delf opened the batting against the usual Suffolk attack of Perrett and Abbott and 31 came off the first 6 overs. Both batsmen looked in control with Delf punishing both bowlers if they strayed off line and a good total of around 200 seemed possible. However, Smith was adjudged lbw to Perrett in the 9th over and could consider himself a tad unlucky as the ball struck him high on the pad. 34-1 became 39-2 when Perrett showed great disregard for his age as he dived full length to his left to take a stunning low catch of his own bowling to dismiss Delf. The ball was struck with plenty of venom and was never more than 12 inches off the ground and once again the batsman could consider himself to be dismissed in this fashion. Once again, two new batsmen at the crease with 11 overs gone. Chris Watson, the Suffolk skipper surprisingly took Perrett out of the attack, a master stroke in hindsight as it allowed C.Wright to bowl his slow looping deliveries. His first 4 overs were maidens, two of which were wicket maidens. Norfolk were in a rut, totally bogged down scoring just 10 runs from as many overs. Martin went for 1 playing across the line in a desperate attempt to get the scoreboard moving and Dewson only managed a single against the nagging Wright. 40-3 became 44-4 and Cobb was hanging around like a limpet. A partnership of 24 for the 5th wicket saw a flurry of runs including two boundaries from Cobb before he to was adjudged lbw to Knight for 16 off 53. Another 15 run partnership with Etheridge and Cooke before Cooke was stumped by Morgan off the bowling of R.Powell. Etheridge went for 13 with the score on 85-7 and the very next ball it was 85-8, James going 1st ball, another lbw victim. A little tail wagging from Barnham and Harrup enabled the home side to creep past the 100 mark before Harrup was bowled by Howe for 8. Two balls later the innings closed when Barnham became Perretts 3 rd victim. A really disappointing total of 105 all out considering the start.Undoubtably the catch by Perrett turned the game; however it was in general a dismal batting display by the home side, with most looking like rabbits caught in the headlights. Suffolk bowled and fielded well with excellent performances from Perret 3-24,Knight 3-22 and Wright 2-4 from 8 overs. Abbott provided good support, bowling his allotted overs right through and although he finished wicketless he only conceded 24 runs.
If Norfolk were to get anything from this game they needed to bowl and field well. They didn’t. The line was wrong, the length was wrong and there were too many mistakes in the field. Morgan and Penny were batting as if they were expecting a thunderstorm at any moment, scoring at 6+ an over. Skipper Smith rang the bowling changes but none of his six bowlers really troubled the two batsmen. At 82 in the 16th over Dawson found the edge of Morgan’s (36) bat and he was caught behind, the ball lodging in the keepers pad. Penny went on to get his half century and Radford (13*) had the honour of hitting the winning runs with just 18.1 overs gone.
Suffolk are a very strong side and have virtually confirmed their place in the play off’s. Norfolk have three games left and will need to win at least two of them to finish in third spot
Norfolk 105-10 (44-2) Suffolk 109-1 (18.2 overs)
Suffolk win by 9 wickets
Nobby Cobb
Over 70’s Cricket Report
Warwickshire Over 70’s vrs Norfolk Over 70’s –Stratford upon Avon-10th July 2014
At 0630 Dave Gale and Nobby Cobb departed from the People’s Republic of Bacton on the long journey to Stratford upon Avon to play Warwickshire. Collecting Mick Martin from Stalham, they continued to meet up with the rest of the guys at Thickthorn Services. Terry Blundell duly arrived on time with the 12 seater and we set off on time at 0730. Of course it rained however when we arrived at Barton Mills (to pick up Dave Etheridge) it had dropped from torrential down to heavy. The further we went west the brighter it became and by the time we stopped for a comfort stop at Coventry the sun was shining. We had made good time and arrived at the picturesque ground at 1130.
Stratford is home to the famous Bard but we had no idea that our game would be as complicated as any of his plays. The wicket looked good, the outfield extremely large and well prepared. Mick Smith spoke to the groundsman who informed us that it had played very well on its previous game but the odd ball occasionally kept low.(Note to self: always speak to the groundsman before the game). It looked a batters paradise and a par score of 225+ would be required to gain victory. A team conference concluded that on winning the toss, the skipper should bat however he lost the toss and the opposition inserted us anyway.
Curtain Up: Act 1. Mike Smith(5) and Mike Delf(1) strode confidently to the crease but with just 3 overs gone, they were back courtesy of both receiving a ball that does not appear in any coaching manual, ‘’The Grubber’. 10-2 was not the start we were looking for. Consolidation was the name of the game and Mike Martin and Nobby Cobb set about achieving this. That well known run scorer ‘Extras’ was in excellent form, outscoring the batsmen as they struggled against the bowling of R Cooper. 10 over’s gone, both batsmen reasonably set and 40 runs on the board, it looked as though the team could perhaps achieve 200. Enter the villain, ‘The Grubber’ who crept under M Martin’s (9) bat and 40-2 became 40-3.
Act 2: Derek Dewson the next batsman in. A naturally aggressive individual (in more ways than one). Once again consolidation was the name of the game and D.Dawson applied himself to the task, curbing his natural instinct to knock the cover off the ball and gradually came to terms with the wicket. Play all the on wicket balls off the front foot to deprive The Grubber and this pair was doing it with aplomb. N.Cobb (who has been asked by the NHS to provide a video of his batting for use in clinics where people have trouble in sleeping) was nudging and nurdling and 74 runs were added to bring the score to 114 with 32 overs gone.
Act 3. For perhaps the only time in his innings Cobb(40) played back and was deep in his crease when ‘The Grubber’ claimed his 4th wicket. The score now stood at 114-4 with 15 overs left. Dave Etheridge joined Dawson but the expected acceleration never came. Boundaries were hard to come by (only 9 in the whole innings) and Dave is not renowned for his ambling between wickets. It’s reported that Blair was prime minister the last time Dave ran more than a single. In the end the innings closed on 172-4, somewhat short of what was hoped for .D.Dewson needs to be singled out for his controlled performance with the bat, an excellent 48 not out and a selfless innings as he put the teams need before his own. D. Etheridge also batted well ending on 25 not out. For the home side both R.Cooper and J.Bates bowled well. ‘Extra’s chalked up a total of 44.
A 'Churchillian' speech by Mike Smith at the tea interval gave inspiration to the team; we had the runs on the board. We would need to bowl and field well and keep the extra’s down.
Act 4 An early wicket was needed to put the home side under pressure and three early close appeals were adjudged unsuccessful. The openers having survived these appeals then settled in and scored runs at a steady rate. They rarely looked in trouble as Smith rang the changes and at the drinks break Warwickshire were 78-0 exactly the same score that Norfolk had at this point but with 3 wickets down. Norfolk’s body language at this point seemed to indicate that they thought the game lost however they went out after the break with a fresh determination.
Act 5 The breakthrough came just two overs later in Dewsons second over courtesy of yet another visit from ‘The Grubber’. This time the unlucky batsman was Alan Neal (38). Jim Philips, Warwickshire’s talisman strode to the wicket looking imposing and full of confidence. Norfolk knew that if they were to stand any chance of winning this game, they needed to get Philips out pretty quickly. Just 8 balls later, Philips casually flicked a ball from Mike Martin off his legs and watched in horror as David James took the catch at square leg. The look on his face said it all as he slowly left the field. This was arguably the turning point in the game. Suddenly the whole team was inspired and the improbable victory was back on. In cricket, things change from ball to ball and this game was no different. No sooner had Philips been dismissed before opening bowler D.Gale pulled up with a back spasm and left the field never to return. No substitute fielder was provided by Warwickshire in retaliation to Norfolk over 60s not providing Warwickshire with one two days earlier at Nuneaton. Not only were Norfolk a man short they now had to find a bowler to take the 4 overs that Gale had left. SKipper Don Bates was next to go, stumped by N Cobb with the score on 109-4 with 32 overs gone. 9 runs later Mike Barnhams one handed pick up and throw direct hit saw the end of Arnold in the 34th over.
Finale With the run rate approaching 5 an over and 5 wickets down, the odds were in Norfolk’s favour however there was No D.Gale to bowl at the death, Dewson had two left but was just about exhausted, suffering from his long batting stint, 7 overs and the extra large all day breakfast that he had consumed on the comfort stop earlier in the day. Arnold and Gleeson were up for the task and runs were being accrued slowly but surely, 28 required and three overs to go. Dewson back only to be savaged ,12 runs coming from his over, closing the gap to 16 with two left. A short conference and major field placing changes; 4 in the circle and 4 on the fence. Suddenly the loss of one fielder was leaving gaps leaving the fielding side vulnerable. Delf bowled the penultimate over, 6 scored leaving 10 from the last. Same field but who to bowl. Dewson was shattered and only D.James had overs left. Should the skipper trust James to bowl the last one who had earlier been replaced as he was nursing a hamstring injury. The answer was no as the skipper made the brave decision to bowl it himself. 1 off the first. Dot ball. 2 off the next then another single. Two balls to go and just six required. A quick single turned into a nightmare as both batsmen finished up at the keepers end. the ball returned to the bowler and the 6th wicket fell to a run out. 1 ball to go and 6 to tie. A squirt to point. No run and Norfolk were home and dry with 6 runs to spare.
Curtain Down For Warwickshire this was a tragedy. For Norfolk it was a Farce which ended as a Comedy. A fitting game to be played in the shadows of The Famous Shakespeare Theatre.
This was a superb team display with everyone contributing to the success. Dewson, Cobb and Etheridge with the bat. James, Gale, Delf Fowle, Dewson Martin and Smith with the ball. Barnhan with the first run out and of course D.James with the catch that turned the match.
A couple of pints, celebration Fish & Chips at Terry’s old chippy, a detour around Northampton and a return to the Peoples Republic at 0130. What a day!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Norfolk 172-4, Warwickshire 167-6 Norfolk win by 5 runs
Nobby Cobb
Over 70’s Cricket Report
Worcester Over 70’s vrs Norfolk Over 70’s –Attwood Bank-26th June 2014
After a 4.5 hour drive from Norfolk to Astwood Bank, the Norfolk contingent could have been forgiven for showing their disappointed at the state of the wicket. It had been used on at least two previous occasions, had deep holes in the crease where the batsmen placed their bats to take guard, had the kind of rough outside the left hander’s off stump that would have had Shane Warne rubbing his hands with glee. On top of that the whole pitch had cracks which were disconcerting.
For once, Mike Smith won the toss and decided to bat on the premise that the wicket would not improve. Having lost his opening batting partner just 23 minutes prior to departure (His mother-in –law having just fallen down stairs), he promoted Gerald Cooke to number 1.hoping his aggressive style would put the impressive 80 year old, Tony Neel of his length. A cautious start by both batsmen as from the very start the wicket provided uneven bounce with the odd ball keeping extremely low. A couple of lusty blows from Cooke found the boundary however with just 14 runs on the board,he played across the line, the ball stayed low and he was trapped right in front of his stumps having scored just 10. Mike Barnham joined Smith and the next five overs resulted in another 12 runs being added before Barnham played a shot that doesn’t feature in any cricket coaching manual and was bowled by Neel for 6. 26-2 with 9 overs gone and runs hard to come by. N.Cobb joined his skipper and the left/right combination seemed to upset the rhythm of the bowlers and the recovery process continued up to the drinks break. 72-2 seemed a reasonable score after the poor start, however the run rate was below the 4.0 runs per over that was thought to be needed to set a challenging total. 20 runs came off the next 5 overs along with the a partnership of 66 before Cobb (25) became another victim of the pitch and low bounce, being bowled by Ebbage as he tried to pull a short ball to mid wicket. D.Dewson took the attack to the Worcestershire bowlers giving his skipper support and was unlucky to be given out lbw after scoring 29 from his 43 delivery’s. 146-4 with 5 overs left, Smith well set and new Batsmen D.Etheridge capable of scoring boundaries the feeling in the dressing room was optimistic that 175+ was on and although that would be short of the hoped for 190, it could be defended. Disaster at the start of the next over saw Smith (60) caught behind with just 3 more runs added and although both Etheridge (9*) and D.James (7*)attempted to force the pace, accurate bowling and fine ground fielding ensured that only another 14 runs were added and the innings closed on 163-5. For the second match in a row, skipper Mike Smith scored a half century and received good support from both Cobb and Dewson.
Following an excellent tea, Norfolk took the field with a substitute fielder provider by Worcestershire skipper G.Batty. Once again showing that in the Over 70 competition, it’s not always winning at all costs. The ever dangerous Bristcoe and dependable Ebbage opened the batting for Worcester and started as though they wanted to be home early. D.Gale and G.Harrup opened the bowling for Norfolk and conceded 15 runs from the first 4 overs. By this time the ‘new ball’ resembled a tattered tennis ball. No shine and the seam starting to split. Gale who relies on the ball retaining its shine managed to get through an initial 7 over stint, picking up the wicket of Briscoe (6), who dragged (another low ) ball onto his stumps.16-1 became 27-2 when Harrup had his lbw appeal upheld against Rose (2) with 8 overs completed. It was looking good for the visitors, however with the introduction of the second string bowlers the game turned in favour of the home side. Martin went for 15 off 2, and was replaced Dewson whilst James failed to get both line and length right and went for 36 of his 5 overs. Ebbage was solid, taking no chances whilst the stocky Middleton played a mixture of class strokes and village cricket heaves. A difficult chance from Ebbage off Dewson was dropped by Cobb and shortly afterwards the same batsman survived a run out as keeper Cooke failed to gather the ball cleanly. Two shouts by Dewson against Middleton (28) for lbw were finally rewarded however the partnership of 97 had taken the score to 124-3 from 33 overs. With no one else to call on, Smith had had to join the bowling attack whilst Gale was recalled to replace Dewson as he completed his allotted overs. Smith had Ebbage (69) caught by Cobb with just 3 more runs added to the total, but this only brought the left handed J,Brookes to the crease. He took his score to 6 and gave a chance to Martin of the bowling of Smith but the catch went down. Fortunately the drop was not costly because off the first ball of the next over he was bowled by Gale. 148-6 with 38 overs gone leaving just 16 required from 6 overs however, Gale, Harrup and Dewson all bowled out. James back into the attack, Lawrence and new batsman Thorne at the crease.Thorne took full advantage of the loose balls that were on offer at this crucial stage, scoring 9 of James and the winning runs were scored off the first ball of the 42nd over which was bowled by skipper Mike Smith.
A fine effort which had D.James managed to replicate the form of last week might have led to a different result. Gale 2-27, Harrup 1-18, Dewson 1-18 and Smith 1-30 bowled really well however 63 runs were conceded by the change bowlers in 8 overs. However the batsmen need to take a share of the responsibility for they were 20 odd runs short of setting a competitive total.
Norfolk 163-5 (45 overs) lost to Worcestershire 164-5 (41.1 overs)
Nobby Cobb
Norfolk Over 70's vrs Warwickshire Over 70's played at Mundford on Thursday 19th June 201
With rain falling throughout the county, travelling players could have been forgiven for being pessimistic as to whether there would be a game at Mundford when they arrived. However on arrival the rain had stopped and the covers had done their job. The track looked superb but with a twinge of green and both captains were anxious to win the toss. Warwickshire called correctly and had no hesitation in asking Norfolk to bat first.
Mindful of their last performance when batting first on a rain affected wicket, openers Smith and Delf took no liberties against the Warwickshire attack. Good balls were defended stoutly but the bad ones were dispatched with vigour , particularly by Delf. 50 runs on the board after 14 overs, and it was obvious that in spite of the early green tinge, this was a batsman’s wicket. The score had moved on to 71 when, for no explicable reason Delf ‘danced’ down the wicket and was bowled by Longhouse having amassed 44 runs from just 50 deliveries. As so often in cricket, one wicket brings another and the luckless victim was the new batsman Barnham , who was bowled by Bates for just a single with the score on 72. Cobb joined his skipper and brought about a left/right combination and they settled in, increasing both the tempo and run rate with quick singles and a few three’s (not often seen at this level). Smith reached his half century and was soon joined by his left handed companion as the score reached the hundred run partnership with 35 overs gone. Even with 176 on the board, there was a feeling that another 50 runs would be needed to provide a competitive total and this led to the demise of Cobb for a fine 55 off 61 deliveries. Debutant D.Dewson strode to the crease, full of intent and over the remaining 9 overs he consistently clubbed the ball to all parts of the ground and along with skipper Smith took the score to 252-3 at the end of the 45th over. Mike Smith carried his bat and finished on 89 not out from 120 deliveries whilst Dewson finished on 38 not out off just 33 balls. Warwickshire used seven bowlers, none of whom managed to cause any real problem on a very well prepared flat track.
Mike Smith expressed to one and all that this game was far from won at the tea interval and thus it proved to be. Neal and Day, the Warwickshire openers’ took the challenge to heart and punished anything that was short or wide. They kept up with the run rate and were just one run behind when they lost their first wicket, Day playing a rash shot to part time bowler, Delf. He departed with 40 runs to his name off 47 balls with the score on 64 with 16 overs gone. Warwickshire continued to attack and the second wicket didn’t come until the 30th over with the score on 123. This time it was Neal departing being bowled by James for 41 off just 47. Three balls later incoming batsmen Arnold departed for a duck again to the bowling of James. Budd was batting well however he was not receiving support from the opposite end and the run rate started to climb. The game was virtually over when Budd (37) was stumped down the leg side by Cooke, once again off the bowling of James. Bates and Lawrence went into defensive mode which allowed Smith to give his fringe bowlers a bowl, which enabled Warwickshire to score more runs than they really should have. Bates finished with 25 not out off 42 whilst Lawrence only compiled 14 from 43. David James bowled well enough to take 3-20 from his nine overs and was well supported by the other 5 bowlers used.
Once again we were entertained regally by Mundford Cricket Club who provided both a wonderfull cricket pitch and provided us with asuperb tea. Thank You Mundford
Norfolk 252-3, Warwickshire 176-4.
Norfolk win by 76 runs
Nobby Cobb
Suffolk Over 70's vrs Norfolk Over 70's at Felixstowe -Thursday 29th May 2014
With the rain lashing down in Norfolk it was hard to believe that the trip to Felixstowe would end in a game of cricket.However, once we were on the other side of Norwich the rain stopped and the only problem left was the traffic created by the second day of the Suffolk show.For whatever reason five players initially went to the wrong ground but eventually arrived at the proper venue. All was well then! Alas this was not the case as skipper Mike Smith received a phone call to say that two players would be unable to make it due to a breakdown.
Heavy rain over the preceding days had left the outfield damp but the wicket had been covered so the game could go ahead. The covers had mostly done their job apart from some seepage slightly short of a length at one end. It was obvious to one and all that batting second would be a great advantage and so it proved to be. Mike Smith lost the toss and Norfolk were asked to bat first. An opening bat missing, Smithy had toeadjust his batting order, promoting wicket keeper G Cooke to that position, hoping to put the miserly Perrott out of his comfort zone. As expected the wicket was slow with very little bounce which enabled both Perrott and Abbott to get the ball to skid on. Staying at the crease was not a problem but scoring runs was. Cooke was looking the more adventurous whist the skipper was struggling, mainly due to both the field placing and the excellent fielding. Cooke, having scored 6 off 18 delivery's hit one to deep mid wicket where Ratcliffe hardly had to move to take a fine catch. Martin joined his skipper and found runs equally hard to come by against Abbott and the spinners that had replaced Perrott. No pace on the ball.no pace off the wicket and variable bounce made batting extremely difficult. Martin scored 11 off 48 and Barnham 14 off 47 but they all perished trying to force the pace. Eventually skipper M Smith went the same way albeit to a fine tumbling catch to his opposite number at deep long on having scored 20 off 80 balls. The scoreboard made dismal reading as wickets fell and the innings ended in the 43rd over with the score on 69-8
Abbott with 3-10 from 7.3 was the pick of the bowlers but he received excellent support from Waters 3-18 off 9, Perrott 1-6 off 8 and Wright 1-19 from 9
Suffolk's skipper provided two substitute fielders to make up the Norfolk XI but whilst Gale initially troubled both the Suffolk openers, they took their time and ground out a ten wicket victory in the 23 rd over. Ratcliffe finishing on 48 not out.
Whilst being a far from ideal start to Norfolk's league campaign, the result should be taken in context. Losing two player (opening bat and first change bowler) just 20 mins before the start was bad enough but then having the worst of the wicket compounded the problem. Disappointment all around but not disheartened, bring on Hertfordshire next week.
Suffolk 70-0 beat Norfolk 69-8 by 10 wickets
Nobby Cobb
Two Counties Over 70’s vrs Norfolk Over 70’s 6th May 2014
Norfolk Over 70’s traveled to the lovely village cricket ground at Copford to take on the Two Counties in a friendly fixture on Tuesday 6th May. This ground is quite unusual as it has a fully grown tree on the outfield and whilst it is regarded as part of the playing area, you can be caught out should the ball rebound from the tree.
A Norfolk side missing five players from the previous game had to call on three ‘guest’ players from the host team, the bank holiday playing havoc with the availability of many of the Norfolk squad. Mike Smith won the toss and elected to bat first. The game would have no restrictions apart from the requirement for the fielding side to bowl 20 overs from 6.00 pm. Once again Norfolk experimented with the openers. Using a right hand/left hand combination Mike Barnham and Nobby Cobb getting the nod. A slow start against the tight bowling of R.Abbott and D Turley saw just 11 runs coming from the first 9 overs with Turley being particularly miserly, conceding just 5 runs in his first 5 overs. The first wicket fell when Barnham (4) played an expansive shot to mid wicket where skipper R.Kemp took a fine diving catch off the bowling of Turley. Mike Martin came in at three and he found runs equally as hard to come by but having survived when the keeper put down a chance off Abbott, he promptly dispatched the next delivery to the boundary. 17 overs had passed before the next wicket fell with the score on 39, this time it was Martin (4) who perished as he hit a ball from Abbott straight into the hands of M.Southwell at short extra cover. This signaled the end of Abbott’s first spell in which he turned in the impressive figures of 9-1-1-21. The first Norfolk ‘guest ‘ R. Black then joined Cobb however this partnership didn’t last long as Powell had Cobb (29) caught behind by the keeper with the score on 45 with 18 overs completed. Kemp decided to recall Abbott into the attack and was immediately rewarded when he bowled G.Cooke (1). 46-4 was not the start Norfolk wanted but a stand of 65 between R Black and Dave Etheridge took the score to 111 before Etheridge (15) was bowled by M.Southwell. Skipper M.Smith, (who had held himself back to get a look at his other batsmen) did not fare any better than his compatriots, being adjudged lbw to Southwell with just 5 runs to his name. R.Black was scoring with ease and reached his half century with good support from another ‘guest ‘ Cox. Finally Black was dismissed for 73 by Southwell with the score on 159-7 with 41 overs gone. Another ‘guest’, T Seaman joined P.Cox and this pair took the score to 180 before M.Smith declared on the completion of the 46th over. Southwell bowled well to finish with 9-0-3-33 and received excellent support from R.Abbott 12-2-2-24 and D Turley 13-3-1-33.
Two Counties were chasing 181 for victory with 1 hours batting plus 20 overs from 6pm. Norfolk were short of main stream bowlers and had drafted in ‘Academy’ youngster Carl Yallop ( 67 but shortly to become 68) for his first game. David James aka ‘The Colonel’ opened the bowling against openers N.Manning and L. Rayner and Norfolk were rewarded with the score on 12 when Yallop bowled Raynor (12) in the 6th over. James received his first success when his rank long hop was gratefully hit towards midwicket by ‘Badger’ Ball only for the batsman to look on in horror as Mike Barnham took a superb catch. The score had reached 21-2 and both Yallop and James were bowling well so skipper M.Smith continued to keep this spearhead on however, after 16 overs the bowlers were looking tired. Yallop was replaced by occasional bowler M.Smith however the Colonel struck again, having Mugglestone plum off the first ball of his over and then with just 1 run added dismissed Manning with his last delivery.44-4 with 15 gone however James managed a further two overs but onlythe occasional bowlers were left. Smith bowled 8 overs, conceding just 15 runs and Mike Barnham was doing his utmost to keep within the required rate. The game turned in favour of the home side when M.Barnham bowled Robinson with the score on 82-5 as this allowed the dangerous M.Southwell to enter the fray. 13 overs to go and 99 runs required so the odds were in favour of the visitors. Neither Yallop nor James had anything left in the tank so M.Martin and R.Black were added to the attack and whilst Martin took 2 wickets, none of the bowlers were able to trouble R.Southwell. He put all the bowlers he faced to the sword as he reached 85 not out, winning the match with a boundary with 2 balls remaining. James and Yallop bowled well. James finishing with 10-2-3-34 and Yallop with 8-2-1-17. However credit has to be given to the three Norfolk occasional bowlers who had to bowl at one of the most prolific batsman around at this time. M.Barnham 6-0-1-39, M.Martin 4-0-2-34 and M.Smith 8-2-0-15. For the record, M.Smith now knows that once he has his full bowling attack, he has three other bowlers he can call on should the need arise.
This was a very good game of cricket played in wonderful surroundings with a great bunch of guys. Two Counties made every effort to help get this game played when Norfolk could only raise 8 of their own players. After the game, The ‘Colonel’ was chosen as Norfolk’s man of the match and received a bottle of wine from the hosts
Norfolk 180-7 lost to Two Counties 184-7 by 3 wickets
Suffolk Over 70’s vrs Norfolk Over 70’s Pre Season Warm Up Game 30th April 2014
Worlingworth was the venue where the combined counties of Norfolk and Suffolk met for the first time since the enforced split as counties in their own right. This eagerly awaited friendly fixture saw team mates of last year up against each other for the first time. First blood went to Chris Watson and his Suffolk side and having won the toss elected to bat first, something he avoided like the plague last season.
The wicket looked good but slightly damp along with an outfield that proved to be an ‘extra’ fielder due to its length of grass. . Gale and Harrop opened the bowling against Watson and Ratford, and were unlucky not to have both of them back in the pavilion within the first 4 overs. A run out chance missed when Harrup fumbled a return with Watson short of his ground followed almost immediately with a dropped caught and bowled chance given by Ratford to Gale. These mistakes however were not too costly as the openers perished before the home side had reached 30, both falling to Harrup. Andrews arrived at the crease and showed his determination to dominate the bowling from the off, his first delivery going for 4. D. Howe looked at ease at the wicket and he and Andrews pushed the score along at a steady pace taking full advantage of the change bowlers, Ray Carmen and Bert Marlow. 25-2 became 61-3 when skipper Mike Smith decided to bowl, his first delivery leading to a fine leg side stumping by keeper G Cooke. Remarkably the umpire would have signaled a wide had the batsman elected to leave it. Andrews was batting well but his colleagues just couldn’t stay with him, only Mugglestone of the lower order reaching double figures. Smith took another wicket and both Gale and Carmen had three and two respectively as the innings closed on 169-9 after the 45 overs. Andrews batted superbly and was unbeaten at the end having scored 69.
With quite a few newcomers in the Norfolk line up, skipper Mike Smith wasted no time in getting them into the action. Mike Barnham and Mike Delf opened the batting against Russ Abbott and Peter Knight and immediately found that run scoring was going to be difficult. Indeed with the score on 1, Mike Barnham was bowled for a duck by Abbott. Mike Martin joined Delf and they settled in and built a partnership that all sides need. It was hard going and the run rate suffered as a result but by the time 20 overs had gone they had added 65 runs. By this time Mike Delf was batting superbly and looked totally at ease however on reaching 48 he was bowled by D.Howe. Martin was playing the anchor role which allowed Gerald Cooke to play his normal attacking game, punishing anything short with his trademark pull to square leg. Another good partnership which added another 51 runs to take the score to 117-3 with 12 overs left. 53 off 12 had increased the asking rate but it was still well within range. Dave Etheridge didn’t last long adding just 6 from the 15 balls received but the score had moved on to 126-4 with nine overs remaining. As so often in cricket on wicket brings another and with just another four runs added Mike Martins innings of 39 came to an end when he was bowled by Peter Knight. Nobby Cobb had not faced a ball when Mick Smith came to the crease needing 41 of the last eight overs. This pair picked up the momentum and although neither player struck a boundary, they made up for it with their running between the wickets. Ones were turned into two’s and they even managed a three. A mid wicket collision between the pair saw Mike Smith scrambling for his crease after his bat went flying and shortly afterwards just made his ground after a fine piece of fielding turned a safe single into a suicidal gallop. In the end this pair saw Norfolk home with almost two overs remaining. Nobby scoring 24 of just 23 deliveries and Mike Smith 13 off 11. Peter Knight bowled well taking 3 wickets for 30 runs but Russ Abbott was not his usual destructive self, possibly as a result of playing for the Two Counties against Norfolk the day before.
It has to be said that it looks as though both sides should be competitive within the Championship without possibly the strength to challenge the likes of Worcester or Warwickshire. Norfolk need another front line bowler but should have little problem with the batting. This was a good competitive game between guys who for the last three seasons the best of mates both on and off the field. Now comes the difficult part of becoming sworn enemies once the game starts
Suffolk 179-8 lost to Norfolk 170-5 by 5 wickets
