Essex O70's vrs Norfolk O70's at Belhus on Thursday 20th August 2015
Heavy rain in Norfolk as we set out for Belhus Cricket Club in Essex. The forecast was for the rain to dry up the further south we travelled but there was a possible risk of thunderstorms later in the day. On arrival at Belhus the weather was fine but overcast however for whatever reason the Belhus ground staff were only informed that morning that they were to host the game. Consequently the wicket had not been covered overnight and it was extremely damp. Mike Smith won the toss and decided to insert the opposition on the strength of the weather forecast.
John Stuck (the Essex run machine) and F.Watts opened the batting for the home side against D.Gale and G.Saunders and it soon became apparent that there was nothing in the wicket for the bowlers and that anything short on this slow pitch was likely to be punished. Stuck (bowled by G.Saunders for 0 in the previous encounter between the two sides) was in fine form, dispatching anything on his legs to the fence and 50 runs were on the board with just 11 overs gone. G.Harrup and C.Yallop replaced the two opening bowlers and it was Harrop who got the breakthrough, having Watts (22) caught by R.Carman with the score on 55 in the 13th over. Yallop was bowling extremely well however Stuck was scoring at will and soon reached his half century. 96 -2 in the 21st over when Harrop took his second wicket, this time bowling M.Bottomley for 19. R.Carman was introduced into the attack but the runs kept on flowing. Stuck was in no trouble against any bowler and his score crept towards another 100. D.Gale and G.Saunders back into the attack and this led to the third and final wicket for the visitors, skipper M,Smith taking the catch to dismiss D Osbourne for 16 in the 33rd over with the score on 143. J.Lodge joined J.Stuck and the run rate immediately increased, specifically through the aggressive running of Lodge. J Stuck reached his 191st century of his career as this unbeaten partnership reached 84 from the last 12 overs. Stuck finished on 125 not out and J Lodge remained not out on 37. Essex on 227-3 from 45 overs, Carl Yallop the pick of the visitors bowlers although wicket less. He bowled a tight line and finished with 9-0-0-34. G.Harrop with 2-41 from his 9 also bowled extremely well. The fielding left a lot to be desired and one could almost surmise that with nothing to play for, Norfolk were just completing the fixture.
If Norfolk were to have any chance of victory, both a good start and a long innings from Martin Pearse would be needed. A change to the batting order as D.Dewson replaced N.Cobb as M.Pearse’s partner with D.Dewson taking first strike. What happened next was unbelievable as M.Pearse was dismissed off the very first ball without actually facing a delivery, a mix up over a run, yes no, sorry saw Martin short of his ground at the non strikers end. N.Cobb in at three and this pair moved the score to 23 before D.Dewson (22) was caught and bowled by D.Cobill in 7th over .D.Lodge was bowling a tight line and was proving difficult to score off. Cobb (10) was bowled by Lodge and M.Smith (11) followed with the score on 56, also a victim of Lodge. 17 overs gone G.Saunders and G.Cooke managed to push the score along to 64 before Cooke departed for just 1 in the 22nd over. G.Saunders was starting to attack the bowling and as M.Barnham (7) and R.Carman (8) departed quickly pushed his score up to a well earned half century. G.Saunders innings ended with his score on 50 but the score had reached 121-8 with just 3 overs remaining. D.Gale continued his rise through, the averages
recording his 5th not out in as many innings, this time 8 not out. C.Yallop also remained 8 not out as the innings ended on 134 -8.
After the game, the unlucky Martin Pearse was presented with ‘Daffy Duck’, this time by Ray Carmen. This was an unusual event because Martin was actually out for what is known as a ‘Platinum Duck’ so called because he was out without facing a ball
A terrible finish to the season that had at one time promised so much, two games lost against Suffolk which could have been won. A loss against Essex at Mundford which even now is hard to understand. However, it was an improvement on last year as Norfolk finished above local rivals Suffolk in third place. Ten games played. 5 wins, 5 losses
N.Cobb
Norfolk O70’s vrs Suffolk O70’s at Halvergate Thursday 13th August 2015
Still smarting from their unexplicable defeat against Essex last week, Norfolk knew that only a win against close rivals Surrey, would give them a chance of reaching the play-off’s. The weather forecast was not good with the possibilities of thunderstorms later in the day although at the toss it was overcast and a little muggy. Norfolk captain Mike Smith won the toss and with the possibility of a curtailed game, asked Surrey to bat first.
Staying with the same two opening bowlers, G.Saunders and D.Gale who had been so effective against the Essex top order, it was hoped that Surrey’s prolific opener, J.Greenwood-Home would be dismissed as cheaply as J.Stuck had been last week. Unfortunately the chance he gave was not taken as G.Saunders could not hang onto the fierce drive which would have been a fine caught and bowled wicket. The 6th over should also have brought a wicket. D.Gale managed to get A.Reid to get the faintest of edges which was taken by N.Cobb behind the wicket, however there was no appeal and Reid survived. At the end of the over Reid was quite happy to rub it in that we had missed a trick. 8 overs gone with the score on 25, Greenwood-Howe survived again when a missed attempted hook shot fell just short of G.Cooke at square leg. A double bowling change, G.Harrup on for Gale and R.Carman replaced Saunders. Just 1 run added before Reid edged one to keeper Cobb who took a fine catch low down of the bowling of R.Carman (Nobby was quick to wish Reid a safe trip back to the pavilion). Greenwood –Howe survived another caught and bowled chance as R.Carman failed to hold onto another return catch and was punishing the home side for failing to take their chances against him. Norfolk’s had to wait until the 25th over for their next wicket.This time, Plumridge skied one from G.Harrop and Mike Smith took a fine catch at deep mid on as the score moved on to 100-2. R.Carman was replaced by S.Fowle who had skipper R.Maynard caught at mid-on by R.Carman with just 1 run added in the 27th over.Unbelievably, Greenwood –Howe was dropped again on 61 and 68, first by Cobb and then yet another caught and bowled chance to Fowle. D.Dewson was brought into the attack and this produced a bizarre wicket for the home side. A rank long hop down the leg side produced a wild swing from H.Symes, he actually made contact with the back of his bat. The ball then ballooning up off his body to be caught by Cobb whilst lying on the floor having fallen over trying to reach the wide ball. It was starting to look better for the home side as the score was 120-5 with 32 overs gone. Springer came in and there were almost two run outs as he searched for quick runs, however his stay was short lived when he holed out to G.cooke at deep square leg off the bowling of Fowle. Surprisingly the fielder did not have to move, the ball travelling straight to him. Armitage joined Greenwood-Hone and the score moved along to 142-6 in the 37th over ,when Saunders clean bowled Greenwood-Hone for 77.Fifth time lucky. Norfolk had actually pulled the game back quite well, at one time a score in excess of 200 looked on and when Armitage was caught behind off the bowling of Gale the visitors had only reached 172-7. The last two overs of the innings added 12 more runs as the visitors ended on 184-7 from 45 overs. All the bowlers performed well and took a wicket with S.Fowle picking up 2 wickets from his spell of 7-2-2-19 .
A challenging total but one within reach, however with a run rate of 4 an over a good start at a good run rate would be essential.
N.Cobb and M.Pearse opened for the home side against H.De Mel and B.Early and with the field set for run saving, struggled to find the boundary. 10 overs resulted in just 19 runs and the pressure was on to up the rate. Cobb (20 from 47) was the first to go, bowled by Early with the score on 44 however 16 overs had gone and the rate was below 3 an over, painfully not enough. D.Dewson (1 from 4) in at three, however his stay was much shorter than usual as he was adjudged lbw to H.De Mel with the score on 45. Skipper M.Smith joined M.Pearse however only 1 boundary had been scored by the drinks break when Smith was (7 of 17) was caught by Plumridge off the bowling of H.Symes. 60-4 became 60-5 when Pearse(29 from 62) nicked one to the keeper off the first ball of Maynards first over. 125 runs required from 22 overs, a tall task for the lower order. G.Saunders was taking the fight to the opposition however he was struggling to find support from his colleagues. M.Barnham 91 from 8) bowled by Gray, quickly followed by G.Cooke (5 from 12) as the score moved along to 79-7 after 30 overs.R.Carman hung around for 34 balls adding just 8 runs before being caught by Brewster off the bowling of Maynard.The game as a contest was over however a spirited stand between Saunders and Gale enabled Norfolk to register a batting point as they took the score to 134-8 when Saunders (29 from 58) was dismissed when caught by Maynard off the bowling of Brewster with just 2 balls to go. D.Gale with 17 from 22 balls (If only he could have done the same last week) showed some defiance but the innings and play off hopes ended with the score on 134-8 from 45 overs.
For the visitors H.Symes 8-1-2-14 and R.Maynard 6-2-2-19 were the pick of the visitors bowlers who were deserved winners on the day.
However, yet again the batsmen could not perform to the same standards as their bowlers. With a trip to Essex left, its hoped that both batsmen and bowlers can go out on a high note and recover the form that left the possibility of a play off place in the balance up to the penultimate game.
Surrey 184-7 (45 overs), Norfolk 134-8 (45 overs); Surrey win by 50 runs
Nobby Cobb
Heavy rain in Norfolk as we set out for Belhus Cricket Club in Essex. The forecast was for the rain to dry up the further south we travelled but there was a possible risk of thunderstorms later in the day. On arrival at Belhus the weather was fine but overcast however for whatever reason the Belhus ground staff were only informed that morning that they were to host the game. Consequently the wicket had not been covered overnight and it was extremely damp. Mike Smith won the toss and decided to insert the opposition on the strength of the weather forecast.
John Stuck (the Essex run machine) and F.Watts opened the batting for the home side against D.Gale and G.Saunders and it soon became apparent that there was nothing in the wicket for the bowlers and that anything short on this slow pitch was likely to be punished. Stuck (bowled by G.Saunders for 0 in the previous encounter between the two sides) was in fine form, dispatching anything on his legs to the fence and 50 runs were on the board with just 11 overs gone. G.Harrup and C.Yallop replaced the two opening bowlers and it was Harrop who got the breakthrough, having Watts (22) caught by R.Carman with the score on 55 in the 13th over. Yallop was bowling extremely well however Stuck was scoring at will and soon reached his half century. 96 -2 in the 21st over when Harrop took his second wicket, this time bowling M.Bottomley for 19. R.Carman was introduced into the attack but the runs kept on flowing. Stuck was in no trouble against any bowler and his score crept towards another 100. D.Gale and G.Saunders back into the attack and this led to the third and final wicket for the visitors, skipper M,Smith taking the catch to dismiss D Osbourne for 16 in the 33rd over with the score on 143. J.Lodge joined J.Stuck and the run rate immediately increased, specifically through the aggressive running of Lodge. J Stuck reached his 191st century of his career as this unbeaten partnership reached 84 from the last 12 overs. Stuck finished on 125 not out and J Lodge remained not out on 37. Essex on 227-3 from 45 overs, Carl Yallop the pick of the visitors bowlers although wicket less. He bowled a tight line and finished with 9-0-0-34. G.Harrop with 2-41 from his 9 also bowled extremely well. The fielding left a lot to be desired and one could almost surmise that with nothing to play for, Norfolk were just completing the fixture.
If Norfolk were to have any chance of victory, both a good start and a long innings from Martin Pearse would be needed. A change to the batting order as D.Dewson replaced N.Cobb as M.Pearse’s partner with D.Dewson taking first strike. What happened next was unbelievable as M.Pearse was dismissed off the very first ball without actually facing a delivery, a mix up over a run, yes no, sorry saw Martin short of his ground at the non strikers end. N.Cobb in at three and this pair moved the score to 23 before D.Dewson (22) was caught and bowled by D.Cobill in 7th over .D.Lodge was bowling a tight line and was proving difficult to score off. Cobb (10) was bowled by Lodge and M.Smith (11) followed with the score on 56, also a victim of Lodge. 17 overs gone G.Saunders and G.Cooke managed to push the score along to 64 before Cooke departed for just 1 in the 22nd over. G.Saunders was starting to attack the bowling and as M.Barnham (7) and R.Carman (8) departed quickly pushed his score up to a well earned half century. G.Saunders innings ended with his score on 50 but the score had reached 121-8 with just 3 overs remaining. D.Gale continued his rise through, the averages
recording his 5th not out in as many innings, this time 8 not out. C.Yallop also remained 8 not out as the innings ended on 134 -8.
After the game, the unlucky Martin Pearse was presented with ‘Daffy Duck’, this time by Ray Carmen. This was an unusual event because Martin was actually out for what is known as a ‘Platinum Duck’ so called because he was out without facing a ball
A terrible finish to the season that had at one time promised so much, two games lost against Suffolk which could have been won. A loss against Essex at Mundford which even now is hard to understand. However, it was an improvement on last year as Norfolk finished above local rivals Suffolk in third place. Ten games played. 5 wins, 5 losses
N.Cobb
Norfolk O70’s vrs Suffolk O70’s at Halvergate Thursday 13th August 2015
Still smarting from their unexplicable defeat against Essex last week, Norfolk knew that only a win against close rivals Surrey, would give them a chance of reaching the play-off’s. The weather forecast was not good with the possibilities of thunderstorms later in the day although at the toss it was overcast and a little muggy. Norfolk captain Mike Smith won the toss and with the possibility of a curtailed game, asked Surrey to bat first.
Staying with the same two opening bowlers, G.Saunders and D.Gale who had been so effective against the Essex top order, it was hoped that Surrey’s prolific opener, J.Greenwood-Home would be dismissed as cheaply as J.Stuck had been last week. Unfortunately the chance he gave was not taken as G.Saunders could not hang onto the fierce drive which would have been a fine caught and bowled wicket. The 6th over should also have brought a wicket. D.Gale managed to get A.Reid to get the faintest of edges which was taken by N.Cobb behind the wicket, however there was no appeal and Reid survived. At the end of the over Reid was quite happy to rub it in that we had missed a trick. 8 overs gone with the score on 25, Greenwood-Howe survived again when a missed attempted hook shot fell just short of G.Cooke at square leg. A double bowling change, G.Harrup on for Gale and R.Carman replaced Saunders. Just 1 run added before Reid edged one to keeper Cobb who took a fine catch low down of the bowling of R.Carman (Nobby was quick to wish Reid a safe trip back to the pavilion). Greenwood –Howe survived another caught and bowled chance as R.Carman failed to hold onto another return catch and was punishing the home side for failing to take their chances against him. Norfolk’s had to wait until the 25th over for their next wicket.This time, Plumridge skied one from G.Harrop and Mike Smith took a fine catch at deep mid on as the score moved on to 100-2. R.Carman was replaced by S.Fowle who had skipper R.Maynard caught at mid-on by R.Carman with just 1 run added in the 27th over.Unbelievably, Greenwood –Howe was dropped again on 61 and 68, first by Cobb and then yet another caught and bowled chance to Fowle. D.Dewson was brought into the attack and this produced a bizarre wicket for the home side. A rank long hop down the leg side produced a wild swing from H.Symes, he actually made contact with the back of his bat. The ball then ballooning up off his body to be caught by Cobb whilst lying on the floor having fallen over trying to reach the wide ball. It was starting to look better for the home side as the score was 120-5 with 32 overs gone. Springer came in and there were almost two run outs as he searched for quick runs, however his stay was short lived when he holed out to G.cooke at deep square leg off the bowling of Fowle. Surprisingly the fielder did not have to move, the ball travelling straight to him. Armitage joined Greenwood-Hone and the score moved along to 142-6 in the 37th over ,when Saunders clean bowled Greenwood-Hone for 77.Fifth time lucky. Norfolk had actually pulled the game back quite well, at one time a score in excess of 200 looked on and when Armitage was caught behind off the bowling of Gale the visitors had only reached 172-7. The last two overs of the innings added 12 more runs as the visitors ended on 184-7 from 45 overs. All the bowlers performed well and took a wicket with S.Fowle picking up 2 wickets from his spell of 7-2-2-19 .
A challenging total but one within reach, however with a run rate of 4 an over a good start at a good run rate would be essential.
N.Cobb and M.Pearse opened for the home side against H.De Mel and B.Early and with the field set for run saving, struggled to find the boundary. 10 overs resulted in just 19 runs and the pressure was on to up the rate. Cobb (20 from 47) was the first to go, bowled by Early with the score on 44 however 16 overs had gone and the rate was below 3 an over, painfully not enough. D.Dewson (1 from 4) in at three, however his stay was much shorter than usual as he was adjudged lbw to H.De Mel with the score on 45. Skipper M.Smith joined M.Pearse however only 1 boundary had been scored by the drinks break when Smith was (7 of 17) was caught by Plumridge off the bowling of H.Symes. 60-4 became 60-5 when Pearse(29 from 62) nicked one to the keeper off the first ball of Maynards first over. 125 runs required from 22 overs, a tall task for the lower order. G.Saunders was taking the fight to the opposition however he was struggling to find support from his colleagues. M.Barnham 91 from 8) bowled by Gray, quickly followed by G.Cooke (5 from 12) as the score moved along to 79-7 after 30 overs.R.Carman hung around for 34 balls adding just 8 runs before being caught by Brewster off the bowling of Maynard.The game as a contest was over however a spirited stand between Saunders and Gale enabled Norfolk to register a batting point as they took the score to 134-8 when Saunders (29 from 58) was dismissed when caught by Maynard off the bowling of Brewster with just 2 balls to go. D.Gale with 17 from 22 balls (If only he could have done the same last week) showed some defiance but the innings and play off hopes ended with the score on 134-8 from 45 overs.
For the visitors H.Symes 8-1-2-14 and R.Maynard 6-2-2-19 were the pick of the visitors bowlers who were deserved winners on the day.
However, yet again the batsmen could not perform to the same standards as their bowlers. With a trip to Essex left, its hoped that both batsmen and bowlers can go out on a high note and recover the form that left the possibility of a play off place in the balance up to the penultimate game.
Surrey 184-7 (45 overs), Norfolk 134-8 (45 overs); Surrey win by 50 runs
Nobby Cobb
Norfolk O70’s vrs Essex at Mundford on Thursday 7th July 2015
As I made my way from Bacton to Mundford it seemed that every time I stopped at a set of traffic lights, the Australians lost a wicket. Fantastic for England and totally unexpected and little did I know that the game between Norfolk and Essex would end in a similar vein.
Another muggy day with overhead conditions likely to help the bowlers and another important toss to win. Mike Smith tossed and the Essex skipper called correctly only for the umpires to overrule the call because the coin had not spun. Toss again, Essex called incorrectly and they were put into bat.
The run scoring machine from Essex, J.Stuck opened with partner F.Watts against the changed opening attack of G, Saunders and D.Gale. 3 balls in and Stuck is comprehensively bowled without scoring by Geoff Saunders. What a start for the home side. Bottomly replaced Stuck however the fourth over brought another wicket when F.Watts was stumped by Nobby Cobb off Dave Gale’s bowling. 8-2 with just 3.4 overs gone. Worse was to come as D.Osbourne failed to make his ground as Martin Pearse swooped on the ball in the deep and his throw was arrow straight to the keeper who removed the bails with the batsman well short. 10-3 with just 4 overs gone. G.Saunders and D.Gale were bowling beautifully and the Essex number 5, B.Ball was the 4th man to go when trapped in front by G.Saunders with the score still on 10. G.Saunders came out of the attack after 5 overs to be replaced by Graham Harrop who immediately dropped onto a length that restricted the batsmen’s scoring opportunities. For once D.Gale was bowled straight through by the skipper with figures of 6-1-1-16 and he finished with 3 maidens and a wicket to reduce the visitors to 31-5. Harrop was also bowled out to finish with 9-1-0-15. Carl Yallop replaced Gale and started with a wicket maiden getting the left handed Marshall lbw for 5 from 43 balls, the score 38-6 after 20 overs. Everything was going exceptionally well for the home side, six top order batsmen gone and a nothing score on the board. As the say ‘Cometh the hour, Cometh the man (or in this case the men). Skipper K.Pratt and A. Jenner then proceeded to show how easy it was to build an innings on what was a predominately flat track that held no gremlins for the batsmen. This pair stayed together until the 43rd over before K.Pratt hit a ball off Ray Carmen to ‘Cow Corner’ where Mike Banham took a splendid catch. Pratt had scored 41 from 74 balls but more importantly he and his partner had added 85 priceless runs together.A.Jenner finished on 41 not out and his new partner ended on 10 not out as the innings closed on 134-7.
This had been a wonderful performance by the bowlers, restricting the title favorites to just 134. The fielders backed up the bowlers and the Norfolk players went to tea in a very happy mood indeed.
Mike Smith reverted to his usual opening pair of himself and Martin Pearse and the innings got off to a flyer with 24 runs coming from the first 6 overs. M.Pearse in particular was looking solid striking the ball well before being dismissed for 34, once again lbw, this time to K.Pratt. 47-1 from 12 overs. Nobby Cobb came in at 3 and with M.Smith they added another 28 runs to the score before M.Smith made a fatal decision to take a second run and failed to make his ground. M.Smith 20 (51) departed at the drinks break but no need to panic just another 56 required off 22 overs. Derek Dewson replaced Smith however Cobb (16) just couldn’t get bat on ball and after a couple of maidens threw caution to the wind and top edged 5th bowler R. Jennings who completed the simple catch. Without wishing to be unkind, Kevin Peterson would have described Jennings as just a pie chucker who was just waiting to be hit.75-2 became 83-3 when Jennings struck again, this time Dewson(7) advanced down the wicket and left Stuck with the easiest of stumpings. Suddenly a feeling of apprehension descended on the home side; surely we couldn’t lose from here. Because of the normally strong top four, the lower order have not been called upon to bat much this season so this was going to prove a challenge to them. Gerald Cooke took a wild swipe at a ball down the leg side which he nicked to the keeper having just scored the one run. Had he left it the umpire would have called it a wide, however it was now 90-5. The body language of the visitors was now much improved but with both Mike Barnham and Geoff Saunders at the crease the required amount of runs required was decreasing. Opening bowler Andy Jenner back into the attack, his first four overs having gone for just 10 runs, and a wicket straight away when Banham diverted the ball straight into the hands of (guess who) R Jennings at backward point. 114-5, just 21 required. Still no problem, incoming batsmen Ray Carmen being no mug with the bat. A ball from Jenner down the leg side, fumbled by the keeper, Carmen thinks of a run. Steps outside his crease and somehow Stuck manages to gather the ball and run Carman out for 0.The score had moved on to 122 as a result of two well struck boundary’s by G.Saunders off the bowling of Jennings. Jennings was spraying the ball around both sides of the wicket like a lawn sprinkler however from one of these, G.Saunders made contact but it was only sufficient to pop the ball up into the air for Bottomley to take the catch. Deep trouble for the home side 122-8, 5 overs to go and 11 runs needed. The bowlers were now being asked to do what their illustrious batsmen had failed to do, score runs of Jenner. A couple of singles, a boundary from Carl then the ‘pie chucker ‘got his 5th wicket having Carl lbw for just 4.The last pair at the crease,2 overs to go and 5 needed. A bye off the first ball but that was it. A.Jenner closed out the innings with his last spell of 5-5 1-0, a superb piece of bowling. D.Gale had faced 25 deliveries for his 2 not out whilst G.Harrop failed to score from his two.
So what should have been a glorious victory became an ignominious defeat. The bowlers did everything required of them in restricting the usually high scoring Essex to just 134. For once the batting was poor, specifically the top order. Martin Pearse batted well and can be excused the criticism that the others deserved. Smith and Cobb and Dewson all making poor decisions, especially when there was no ‘Scoreboard ‘pressure to push for runs. The middle order tried to steady the ship and no blame can be attached to the lower order for not reaching the target. For a fifth bowler to take five wickets beggars belief and there can be no excuses for losing this game. Essex were virtually dead and buried at tea. It just goes to prove what a strange game cricket is.
Two wins from the remaining two fixtures against Surrey and Essex are needed for Norfolk to advance to the play-offs
Nobby Cobb
Hertfordshire Over 70’s vrs Norfolk Over 70’s played at Preston on Thursday 30th July 2015
With heavy rain and storm clouds in Norfolk, the prospects of an uninterrupted game of cricket further south did not seem promising. However on reaching the delightful hamlet of Preston the skies were clear and the outfield was dry. A little water had seeped below the covers but not in any areas likely to trouble batsman or bowler. A muggy day with the sun popping out from behind the clouds that at times promised to bring rain. So with the prospect of the game being affected by the weather, the toss once again became important and our skipper didn’t let us down; once again he called incorrectly and we were inserted by the opposition.
Martin Pearse and Nobby Cobb opened for Norfolk and they added 42 runs from the first 12 overs. Martin survived a stumping chance of the bowling of Tony Foster but then Nobby nicked one to the keeper of the bowling of Colin Croucher and departed for just 16. Nobby surprisingly was replaced by Derek Dewson (a fellow lefty) and what an inspired move this proved to be by skipper Mike Smith. Martin dropped and nothing was going right for the Hertfordshire skipper. A half century for Martin and the runs kept on coming with a mixture of boundaries and good running between the wickets. 84-1 at the drinks break and the visitors were in a very handy position. Derek reached his half century and it was just a matter of time before Martin recorded his first ‘ton’ as a 70’s player. Still the runs kept flowing but Derek was definitely feeling the effects of all the running he had done. With the overs running out it was obvious that we would not have two centurions on the day and so it proved when Derek played a tired shot to Mike Newlands in the final over and departed for 86 of exactly the same amount of deliveries. Gerald Cooke came in, faced one ball, scored one run and gave the final three balls to Martin. Seven more to the total which reached 244-2 after 45 overs. Martin remained not out with 127 (151) and Gerald not out 1 (1)
A very happy bunch of Norfolk players went into tea, surely only the weather was likely to deny them a deserved victory.
David Gale and Carl Yallop once again opened the bowling with the first ten overs producing just 21 runs for the loss of two wickets. Opener J.Skitt fell to a brilliant pick up and throw by Mike Barnham, the direct hit being the difference between safety and being run out. David Gale then clean bowled his replacement and Herts were struggling. Dave Gale’s spell at this point 5-1-1-5 as he was withdrawn from the attack and replaced by Ray Carman. 19 overs gone and Carl completed his 9 overs wicket less but had only conceded 30 from his spell. David James into the attack, a ten ball over that had 4 wides and a wicket in it, that of number two bat K Rosewell, 22 from 60 balls with the score on 54-3. Ray Carman was bowling well and was unlucky not to take a wicket in his spell but he was most miserly, finishing with 9-1-0-19. M.Dexter was as usual putting up some resistance and never looked to be in any trouble but a quick single ended in disaster as another direct hit, this time from Geoff Saunders left him well short of the crease and he departed for 38 from 72 balls faced. ‘Grumpy’ Peter Morris was clean bowled by Geoff Saunders before we had the third run out of the innings. Martin Pearse fielding in the deep threw the ball to the bowlers end, a mix up between the batsmen saw them both stuck at the bowlers end as Geoff Saunders gathered the ball and rolled it to the keeper who did the rest. 127-6 after 38 became 128-7 when Geoff Saunders bowled C.Wilson to collect his second wicket. Skipper J.Scott and Colin Croucher batted out the remaining overs to take the score to 151-7 and clinch a second batting point.
A potential banana skin for Norfolk, the threat of rain around the 20 over point during Hertfordshire’s innings the only real cause for concern after Martin Pearse and Derek Dewson had virtually batted Hertfordshire out of the game. All the bowlers performed well and the fielding was much improved on the last game.
Three more games against the sides above them, two of which need to be won if the play-offs are to be reached. It’s definitely within Norfolk’s hands now
Norfolk Over 70’s 244-2 (45 overs); Hertfordshire Over 70’s 151-7 (45 overs) Norfolk win by 93 runs
Nobby Cobb
Two Counties vrs Norfolk Over 70's at Halstead on 22nd July 2015
On Wednesday 22nd.July the over 70s with the help of two over 60s 2s rejects took on 2 Counties Seniors at Halstead C.C. ( Should have been 3 but they recalled their 12th man to stand in for a player arriving late should they field first. They didn't and Kingsley went without a game ! )
Unusually , the two Counties skipper, after a team vote, agreed to play an overs match rather than their usual timed game. They won the toss ( surprise ) and elected to bat first.
David James opened the bowling with a maiden , Stan Fowle conceded only 1 in his first over then the Colonel struck trapping McLeod LBW . He struck again dismissing Badger Ball when the score was 12 following a brilliant catch by Richard Norman. Only 1 run later Stan trapped Willie Muggleston LBW, who scored 100 against us 2 years ago. 13 for 3 in the 8th over ! This great start allowed skipper Mick Smith to give a bowl to players that wouldn't normally get the chance. Although there was a period of consolidation the batsmen never got on top. The introduction of Geoff Saunders 2 for 25 off 9, Derek Dewson and the reintroduction of Stan Fowle 5 for 44 off 11 finished the innings in the 45th over. 2 Counties 178 all out.
Needing just about 4 an over Norfolk openers Dave Etheridge and Joe Perry ( Jnr ) started steadily putting on 22 before Dave was stumped for 7. Four overs and 25 runs later Mick Smith ( 10 ) was adjudged LBW. Richard Norman joined Joe and the 2 youngsters enjoyed a 55 run partnership off only 56 balls before Richard was well caught for 29. Geoff Saunders getting a rare bat for the 70s continued the impetus sharing a 31 run partnership in only 27 balls before Joe was caught and bowled with a well earned 57. Derek, the run machine Dewson joined Geoff and the Fakenham Two took the score to within 1 run of the 2 Counties total before Derek was bowled for 12. Mike Barnham didn't have time to get off the mark before Geoff hit the winning run finishing on 41 not out in the 38th over.
A 5 wicket win for Norfolk and although there have been plenty off draws we need to check the records to see if this is our first win for this fixture.
Stan Fowle was deservedly made man of the match for his 5 for 44.
Combined Hunts & Cambs/Norfolk Over 70’s vrs Australian Victoria State Over 70 Tourists
Mick Smith was the captain of the combined home side which had seven players from Norfolk and five from Cambs &Hunts. The game was played at Cambridge on the Clare College ground on Monday 20th July 2015. Unfortunately this reporter is somewhat hampered due to not having the scorebook to refer to however, most of the salient points are available.
Victoria won the toss (surprise surprise) and decided to bat first with an agreement that batsmen would retire on reaching 40. Twelve players would partake but only 11 fielders would field at any time and only 11 would bat. A 45 over game with each bowler restricted to just 9 overs.
Strangely both of the home sides opening bowlers had the same surname, Gale. Richard from Hunts and David from Norfolk and they both experienced the same problems against the Australian left handed opening pair. Both batsmen frustrated the bowlers by frequently playing the ball from off stump, backward of square. 52 runs on the board without loss when Wilson became the first batsman to reach the compulsory retirement point. Had Wilson not been hampered with an injury that virtually prevented him from running, he would have reached this point much earlier in his innings. David Gale came off after bowling 4 overs and was replaced by Hunts player Norman Gray. Strangely Norman is eligible to play for Hunts as he lives in Peterborough yet he is a regular member of the Surrey over 70 team as a result of Hunts not fielding an over 70 side in the Seevent competition. His introduction led to the first wicket when he took a fine caught and bowled catch at the second attempt. This was the first of three catches as he later took two more at square leg off the bowling of D.Dewson. D.Dewson also took three wickets and indeed should have had four, dropping the easiest of return catches off his own bowling. A run out and a fine full length diving catch by D.Gale off his own bowling completed the wicket taking and the Australian innings ended on 176-6 with two retirements.
Mike Smith opened the batting with two of his regular middle order batsmen who have struggled to get a knock in the Championship games due to the performance of the usual top four. Gerald Cooke looked as though he wanted to finish the game in a hurry, two flashing boundaries in his innings of 19 before getting bowled. M.Barnham a little less flamboyant with the bat however his running between the wickets with Hunts partner M.Hudson was later to earn him the man of the match award from the Victorians. Both these batsmen reached the compulsory retirement figure without giving a chance and the game was effectively over as a contest at this point. The inform Norfolk batsmen D.Dewson replaced M.Barnham whilst M.Hudson handed over to a colleague from Hunts. With D.Dewson into the thirty’s and just 9 needed for victory, he was lured down the track by a leg spinner and was stumped easily by the Victorian keeper. M.Smith replaced him however, three balls later he returned 0 not out without facing a ball as his partner quickly scored the nine runs required to give the home side a comprehensive victory by 8 wickets with 11 overs to spare.
The visitors were up against it having set a well below par score. Their demanding tour schedule (8th Game in 11 days) obviously had a detrimental effect on their performance and the home side took full advantage.
After the game ,M.Smith thanked everybody for their contribution on the day and presented the Victorian captain with a Norfolk cap as the Australian Man of the Match. The Australian made a reply, echoing most of what M.Smith had said. He also stated that it had been his intention to acquire a Norfolk cap because he had traced his ancestry to Norfolk. A place called ‘Bungy’. Following a gasp from the Norfolk contingent, a quick check of his hands revealed four fingers and a thumb on each, and it was surmised that he must have originated on the Norfolk side of Bungy. He then presented Mike Barnham with a cap as Man of the Match, primarily for his 40 runs but particularly for his ‘rabbit style’ running between the wickets. (It was mentioned that he resembled the same animal when in the bedroom). Another cap was also presented to M.Hudson for his unbeaten 40. Finally the tour manager gave a little speech including referring to the marquee as a tent and a run down on Aussie Rules Football (what a misnomer-it doesn’t have any rules) and how he is a long standing supporter of Melbourne Bulldogs. What this had to do with the cricket was not at this point apparent until he produced two Bulldog caps. He presented one to Sue our scorer (perhaps it should have been a Rottweiler as opposed to a Bulldog) and the other to the lady who did the teas and provided both the overcooked and over priced beef burgers after the game.
It was a great day, enjoyed by all in which the cricket was just part of the ingredients
Australian Victoria State Over70 tourists 176-6 (45 overs) Cambs & Hunts/Norfolk Over 70’s 177-2 (33.3 overs) Cambs & Hunts/Norfolk won by 8 wickets
Nobby Cobb
As I made my way from Bacton to Mundford it seemed that every time I stopped at a set of traffic lights, the Australians lost a wicket. Fantastic for England and totally unexpected and little did I know that the game between Norfolk and Essex would end in a similar vein.
Another muggy day with overhead conditions likely to help the bowlers and another important toss to win. Mike Smith tossed and the Essex skipper called correctly only for the umpires to overrule the call because the coin had not spun. Toss again, Essex called incorrectly and they were put into bat.
The run scoring machine from Essex, J.Stuck opened with partner F.Watts against the changed opening attack of G, Saunders and D.Gale. 3 balls in and Stuck is comprehensively bowled without scoring by Geoff Saunders. What a start for the home side. Bottomly replaced Stuck however the fourth over brought another wicket when F.Watts was stumped by Nobby Cobb off Dave Gale’s bowling. 8-2 with just 3.4 overs gone. Worse was to come as D.Osbourne failed to make his ground as Martin Pearse swooped on the ball in the deep and his throw was arrow straight to the keeper who removed the bails with the batsman well short. 10-3 with just 4 overs gone. G.Saunders and D.Gale were bowling beautifully and the Essex number 5, B.Ball was the 4th man to go when trapped in front by G.Saunders with the score still on 10. G.Saunders came out of the attack after 5 overs to be replaced by Graham Harrop who immediately dropped onto a length that restricted the batsmen’s scoring opportunities. For once D.Gale was bowled straight through by the skipper with figures of 6-1-1-16 and he finished with 3 maidens and a wicket to reduce the visitors to 31-5. Harrop was also bowled out to finish with 9-1-0-15. Carl Yallop replaced Gale and started with a wicket maiden getting the left handed Marshall lbw for 5 from 43 balls, the score 38-6 after 20 overs. Everything was going exceptionally well for the home side, six top order batsmen gone and a nothing score on the board. As the say ‘Cometh the hour, Cometh the man (or in this case the men). Skipper K.Pratt and A. Jenner then proceeded to show how easy it was to build an innings on what was a predominately flat track that held no gremlins for the batsmen. This pair stayed together until the 43rd over before K.Pratt hit a ball off Ray Carmen to ‘Cow Corner’ where Mike Banham took a splendid catch. Pratt had scored 41 from 74 balls but more importantly he and his partner had added 85 priceless runs together.A.Jenner finished on 41 not out and his new partner ended on 10 not out as the innings closed on 134-7.
This had been a wonderful performance by the bowlers, restricting the title favorites to just 134. The fielders backed up the bowlers and the Norfolk players went to tea in a very happy mood indeed.
Mike Smith reverted to his usual opening pair of himself and Martin Pearse and the innings got off to a flyer with 24 runs coming from the first 6 overs. M.Pearse in particular was looking solid striking the ball well before being dismissed for 34, once again lbw, this time to K.Pratt. 47-1 from 12 overs. Nobby Cobb came in at 3 and with M.Smith they added another 28 runs to the score before M.Smith made a fatal decision to take a second run and failed to make his ground. M.Smith 20 (51) departed at the drinks break but no need to panic just another 56 required off 22 overs. Derek Dewson replaced Smith however Cobb (16) just couldn’t get bat on ball and after a couple of maidens threw caution to the wind and top edged 5th bowler R. Jennings who completed the simple catch. Without wishing to be unkind, Kevin Peterson would have described Jennings as just a pie chucker who was just waiting to be hit.75-2 became 83-3 when Jennings struck again, this time Dewson(7) advanced down the wicket and left Stuck with the easiest of stumpings. Suddenly a feeling of apprehension descended on the home side; surely we couldn’t lose from here. Because of the normally strong top four, the lower order have not been called upon to bat much this season so this was going to prove a challenge to them. Gerald Cooke took a wild swipe at a ball down the leg side which he nicked to the keeper having just scored the one run. Had he left it the umpire would have called it a wide, however it was now 90-5. The body language of the visitors was now much improved but with both Mike Barnham and Geoff Saunders at the crease the required amount of runs required was decreasing. Opening bowler Andy Jenner back into the attack, his first four overs having gone for just 10 runs, and a wicket straight away when Banham diverted the ball straight into the hands of (guess who) R Jennings at backward point. 114-5, just 21 required. Still no problem, incoming batsmen Ray Carmen being no mug with the bat. A ball from Jenner down the leg side, fumbled by the keeper, Carmen thinks of a run. Steps outside his crease and somehow Stuck manages to gather the ball and run Carman out for 0.The score had moved on to 122 as a result of two well struck boundary’s by G.Saunders off the bowling of Jennings. Jennings was spraying the ball around both sides of the wicket like a lawn sprinkler however from one of these, G.Saunders made contact but it was only sufficient to pop the ball up into the air for Bottomley to take the catch. Deep trouble for the home side 122-8, 5 overs to go and 11 runs needed. The bowlers were now being asked to do what their illustrious batsmen had failed to do, score runs of Jenner. A couple of singles, a boundary from Carl then the ‘pie chucker ‘got his 5th wicket having Carl lbw for just 4.The last pair at the crease,2 overs to go and 5 needed. A bye off the first ball but that was it. A.Jenner closed out the innings with his last spell of 5-5 1-0, a superb piece of bowling. D.Gale had faced 25 deliveries for his 2 not out whilst G.Harrop failed to score from his two.
So what should have been a glorious victory became an ignominious defeat. The bowlers did everything required of them in restricting the usually high scoring Essex to just 134. For once the batting was poor, specifically the top order. Martin Pearse batted well and can be excused the criticism that the others deserved. Smith and Cobb and Dewson all making poor decisions, especially when there was no ‘Scoreboard ‘pressure to push for runs. The middle order tried to steady the ship and no blame can be attached to the lower order for not reaching the target. For a fifth bowler to take five wickets beggars belief and there can be no excuses for losing this game. Essex were virtually dead and buried at tea. It just goes to prove what a strange game cricket is.
Two wins from the remaining two fixtures against Surrey and Essex are needed for Norfolk to advance to the play-offs
Nobby Cobb
Hertfordshire Over 70’s vrs Norfolk Over 70’s played at Preston on Thursday 30th July 2015
With heavy rain and storm clouds in Norfolk, the prospects of an uninterrupted game of cricket further south did not seem promising. However on reaching the delightful hamlet of Preston the skies were clear and the outfield was dry. A little water had seeped below the covers but not in any areas likely to trouble batsman or bowler. A muggy day with the sun popping out from behind the clouds that at times promised to bring rain. So with the prospect of the game being affected by the weather, the toss once again became important and our skipper didn’t let us down; once again he called incorrectly and we were inserted by the opposition.
Martin Pearse and Nobby Cobb opened for Norfolk and they added 42 runs from the first 12 overs. Martin survived a stumping chance of the bowling of Tony Foster but then Nobby nicked one to the keeper of the bowling of Colin Croucher and departed for just 16. Nobby surprisingly was replaced by Derek Dewson (a fellow lefty) and what an inspired move this proved to be by skipper Mike Smith. Martin dropped and nothing was going right for the Hertfordshire skipper. A half century for Martin and the runs kept on coming with a mixture of boundaries and good running between the wickets. 84-1 at the drinks break and the visitors were in a very handy position. Derek reached his half century and it was just a matter of time before Martin recorded his first ‘ton’ as a 70’s player. Still the runs kept flowing but Derek was definitely feeling the effects of all the running he had done. With the overs running out it was obvious that we would not have two centurions on the day and so it proved when Derek played a tired shot to Mike Newlands in the final over and departed for 86 of exactly the same amount of deliveries. Gerald Cooke came in, faced one ball, scored one run and gave the final three balls to Martin. Seven more to the total which reached 244-2 after 45 overs. Martin remained not out with 127 (151) and Gerald not out 1 (1)
A very happy bunch of Norfolk players went into tea, surely only the weather was likely to deny them a deserved victory.
David Gale and Carl Yallop once again opened the bowling with the first ten overs producing just 21 runs for the loss of two wickets. Opener J.Skitt fell to a brilliant pick up and throw by Mike Barnham, the direct hit being the difference between safety and being run out. David Gale then clean bowled his replacement and Herts were struggling. Dave Gale’s spell at this point 5-1-1-5 as he was withdrawn from the attack and replaced by Ray Carman. 19 overs gone and Carl completed his 9 overs wicket less but had only conceded 30 from his spell. David James into the attack, a ten ball over that had 4 wides and a wicket in it, that of number two bat K Rosewell, 22 from 60 balls with the score on 54-3. Ray Carman was bowling well and was unlucky not to take a wicket in his spell but he was most miserly, finishing with 9-1-0-19. M.Dexter was as usual putting up some resistance and never looked to be in any trouble but a quick single ended in disaster as another direct hit, this time from Geoff Saunders left him well short of the crease and he departed for 38 from 72 balls faced. ‘Grumpy’ Peter Morris was clean bowled by Geoff Saunders before we had the third run out of the innings. Martin Pearse fielding in the deep threw the ball to the bowlers end, a mix up between the batsmen saw them both stuck at the bowlers end as Geoff Saunders gathered the ball and rolled it to the keeper who did the rest. 127-6 after 38 became 128-7 when Geoff Saunders bowled C.Wilson to collect his second wicket. Skipper J.Scott and Colin Croucher batted out the remaining overs to take the score to 151-7 and clinch a second batting point.
A potential banana skin for Norfolk, the threat of rain around the 20 over point during Hertfordshire’s innings the only real cause for concern after Martin Pearse and Derek Dewson had virtually batted Hertfordshire out of the game. All the bowlers performed well and the fielding was much improved on the last game.
Three more games against the sides above them, two of which need to be won if the play-offs are to be reached. It’s definitely within Norfolk’s hands now
Norfolk Over 70’s 244-2 (45 overs); Hertfordshire Over 70’s 151-7 (45 overs) Norfolk win by 93 runs
Nobby Cobb
Two Counties vrs Norfolk Over 70's at Halstead on 22nd July 2015
On Wednesday 22nd.July the over 70s with the help of two over 60s 2s rejects took on 2 Counties Seniors at Halstead C.C. ( Should have been 3 but they recalled their 12th man to stand in for a player arriving late should they field first. They didn't and Kingsley went without a game ! )
Unusually , the two Counties skipper, after a team vote, agreed to play an overs match rather than their usual timed game. They won the toss ( surprise ) and elected to bat first.
David James opened the bowling with a maiden , Stan Fowle conceded only 1 in his first over then the Colonel struck trapping McLeod LBW . He struck again dismissing Badger Ball when the score was 12 following a brilliant catch by Richard Norman. Only 1 run later Stan trapped Willie Muggleston LBW, who scored 100 against us 2 years ago. 13 for 3 in the 8th over ! This great start allowed skipper Mick Smith to give a bowl to players that wouldn't normally get the chance. Although there was a period of consolidation the batsmen never got on top. The introduction of Geoff Saunders 2 for 25 off 9, Derek Dewson and the reintroduction of Stan Fowle 5 for 44 off 11 finished the innings in the 45th over. 2 Counties 178 all out.
Needing just about 4 an over Norfolk openers Dave Etheridge and Joe Perry ( Jnr ) started steadily putting on 22 before Dave was stumped for 7. Four overs and 25 runs later Mick Smith ( 10 ) was adjudged LBW. Richard Norman joined Joe and the 2 youngsters enjoyed a 55 run partnership off only 56 balls before Richard was well caught for 29. Geoff Saunders getting a rare bat for the 70s continued the impetus sharing a 31 run partnership in only 27 balls before Joe was caught and bowled with a well earned 57. Derek, the run machine Dewson joined Geoff and the Fakenham Two took the score to within 1 run of the 2 Counties total before Derek was bowled for 12. Mike Barnham didn't have time to get off the mark before Geoff hit the winning run finishing on 41 not out in the 38th over.
A 5 wicket win for Norfolk and although there have been plenty off draws we need to check the records to see if this is our first win for this fixture.
Stan Fowle was deservedly made man of the match for his 5 for 44.
Combined Hunts & Cambs/Norfolk Over 70’s vrs Australian Victoria State Over 70 Tourists
Mick Smith was the captain of the combined home side which had seven players from Norfolk and five from Cambs &Hunts. The game was played at Cambridge on the Clare College ground on Monday 20th July 2015. Unfortunately this reporter is somewhat hampered due to not having the scorebook to refer to however, most of the salient points are available.
Victoria won the toss (surprise surprise) and decided to bat first with an agreement that batsmen would retire on reaching 40. Twelve players would partake but only 11 fielders would field at any time and only 11 would bat. A 45 over game with each bowler restricted to just 9 overs.
Strangely both of the home sides opening bowlers had the same surname, Gale. Richard from Hunts and David from Norfolk and they both experienced the same problems against the Australian left handed opening pair. Both batsmen frustrated the bowlers by frequently playing the ball from off stump, backward of square. 52 runs on the board without loss when Wilson became the first batsman to reach the compulsory retirement point. Had Wilson not been hampered with an injury that virtually prevented him from running, he would have reached this point much earlier in his innings. David Gale came off after bowling 4 overs and was replaced by Hunts player Norman Gray. Strangely Norman is eligible to play for Hunts as he lives in Peterborough yet he is a regular member of the Surrey over 70 team as a result of Hunts not fielding an over 70 side in the Seevent competition. His introduction led to the first wicket when he took a fine caught and bowled catch at the second attempt. This was the first of three catches as he later took two more at square leg off the bowling of D.Dewson. D.Dewson also took three wickets and indeed should have had four, dropping the easiest of return catches off his own bowling. A run out and a fine full length diving catch by D.Gale off his own bowling completed the wicket taking and the Australian innings ended on 176-6 with two retirements.
Mike Smith opened the batting with two of his regular middle order batsmen who have struggled to get a knock in the Championship games due to the performance of the usual top four. Gerald Cooke looked as though he wanted to finish the game in a hurry, two flashing boundaries in his innings of 19 before getting bowled. M.Barnham a little less flamboyant with the bat however his running between the wickets with Hunts partner M.Hudson was later to earn him the man of the match award from the Victorians. Both these batsmen reached the compulsory retirement figure without giving a chance and the game was effectively over as a contest at this point. The inform Norfolk batsmen D.Dewson replaced M.Barnham whilst M.Hudson handed over to a colleague from Hunts. With D.Dewson into the thirty’s and just 9 needed for victory, he was lured down the track by a leg spinner and was stumped easily by the Victorian keeper. M.Smith replaced him however, three balls later he returned 0 not out without facing a ball as his partner quickly scored the nine runs required to give the home side a comprehensive victory by 8 wickets with 11 overs to spare.
The visitors were up against it having set a well below par score. Their demanding tour schedule (8th Game in 11 days) obviously had a detrimental effect on their performance and the home side took full advantage.
After the game ,M.Smith thanked everybody for their contribution on the day and presented the Victorian captain with a Norfolk cap as the Australian Man of the Match. The Australian made a reply, echoing most of what M.Smith had said. He also stated that it had been his intention to acquire a Norfolk cap because he had traced his ancestry to Norfolk. A place called ‘Bungy’. Following a gasp from the Norfolk contingent, a quick check of his hands revealed four fingers and a thumb on each, and it was surmised that he must have originated on the Norfolk side of Bungy. He then presented Mike Barnham with a cap as Man of the Match, primarily for his 40 runs but particularly for his ‘rabbit style’ running between the wickets. (It was mentioned that he resembled the same animal when in the bedroom). Another cap was also presented to M.Hudson for his unbeaten 40. Finally the tour manager gave a little speech including referring to the marquee as a tent and a run down on Aussie Rules Football (what a misnomer-it doesn’t have any rules) and how he is a long standing supporter of Melbourne Bulldogs. What this had to do with the cricket was not at this point apparent until he produced two Bulldog caps. He presented one to Sue our scorer (perhaps it should have been a Rottweiler as opposed to a Bulldog) and the other to the lady who did the teas and provided both the overcooked and over priced beef burgers after the game.
It was a great day, enjoyed by all in which the cricket was just part of the ingredients
Australian Victoria State Over70 tourists 176-6 (45 overs) Cambs & Hunts/Norfolk Over 70’s 177-2 (33.3 overs) Cambs & Hunts/Norfolk won by 8 wickets
Nobby Cobb
N.Cobb and D.Dewson share a joke on their way to an unbeaten partnership of 109 against Kent
Norfolk O70’s vrd Kent at Mundford on Thursday 16th July 2015
Yet another warm and muggy day on which Norfolk entertained Kent at the excellent Munford Cricket Club. After sampling the pre match hospitality (along with the usual banter directed at poor Martin Pearse), Mike Smith returned from the toss grinning from ear to ear. To the complete surprise of all his team mates he reported that not only had he won the toss but had inserted the opposition. The last meeting between these two sides earlier this season had produced a run fest and there was nothing to say that this game would be any different. Kent however were missing D.Birmingham due to injury and as he had scored 100+ in the last game, this was considered to be a bonus for the home side.
D.Gale and C.Yallop opened the bowling whilst D.Kelly and N.McCaul opened the batting. Both of the bowlers were right on the money and only 11 runs were scored from the first eight overs. D.Gale came out of the attack after bowling five overs have conceded just 12 runs C.Yallop bowled through with G.Saunders operating from the other end. Two chances came off the bowling of C.Yallop, both falling just short of the fielder at point. By the first drinks break at 15 overs, the score stood at 40 -0 with both openers looking set however the home side were not disappointed as the score was at least 25 runs short of par. C.Yallop completed his spell wicketless but had only conceded 27 runs and R.Carman took over from him.Almost immediately skipper M.Smith decided to introduce his fifth bowler, and G.Saunders made way for D.James. With the score on 62, Norfolk were gifted a wicket, a pull from Kelly into the deep, a pick up and throw from M.Pearse to the bowlers end and N.McCaul failed to make his ground. Kelly was looking dangerous however with just another 5 runs added to the total, he failed to connect with a full toss from D.James and was trapped right in front of his stumps. Suddenly the Kent batting line up looked a bit frail, Cutler went in the very next over after just three balls at the wicket, caught by D.Dewson to give R,Carman his first wicket of the innings. 68-3 after 24 overs became 78-4 when Rees got himself into a terrible tangle, hitting the ball on to his body, which then hit his stumps via the top of his pad. James now had two wickets with his mixture of good and in some cases poor deliveries. Kent then set about re building their innings with.G.Fernand and the hard hitting N.Underwood punishing anything short. James out of the attack after 4 overs, Carman bowled out allowed skipper Smith to try a couple of overs of spin. Not a great success so D.Dewson was introduced into the attack. Two wides to start, a dot ball then a peach of a delivery that cut back from outside the off stump to bowl the dangerous Underdown for 25 from just 23 deliveries. 114-5 with 33 gone. Norfolk were now on top and it was at this point that the concentration seemed to drop. The batsmen were starting to get the singles that had not been there at the start of the innings, a couple of catches were not taken because the fielders were slow to move into a catching position. G.Saunders and D.Gale were brought back to bowl the remaining overs and G.Saunders picked up the wicket of Fernand whose 12 runs had taken 38 balls. 129-6 after 38 was still a fine achievement for the home side however the visitors took their score to 156- 6 by the close of the innings, helped by one or two bits of really poor fielding.
At tea the home side were feeling pretty confident especially as the pre match talk was all about chasing a possible 200+ score. Skipper M.Smith decided to alter his batting line up, dropping himself down the order and promoting N.Cobb to number two. A left right hand combination with the inform M.Pearse against Sevent select bowler R.Warboys. With a target of less than 4 an over, the batsmen had no reason to take any risks and this became the case. Humphries was bowling a tight line and length whilst Warboys was giving absolutely nothing away. 18 runs from the first 10 overs was possibly giving cause for concern to the watching players however with Humphries off and Hills into the attack the scoring rate improved. 29 runs were plundered from the next 5 overs with M.Pearse looking to punish anything off line. N.Underdown struck in his second over having M.Pearse lbw with the score on 48 in the 16th over. D.Dewson, the other left hander joined N.Cobb and they proceeded to accumulate runs with a mixture of short singles from N.Cobb and the power hitting of D,Dewson. Neither of the batsmen offered a chance, N.Cobb reaching his half century from 74 balls was closely followed by D.Dewson who only required 50 balls to do so. The game was won in in 33rd over when D.Dewson moved onto 64 not out and N.Cobb remained 57 not out.
This was a good win for Norfolk that was set up by the bowlers who maintained their discipline for most of the game. Once again there were 17 wides and there was a definite drop in the fielding levels over the last 10 overs. The lowish total allowed the batsmen to bat without any undue pressure and it was an emphatic win in the end.
Kent 156-6 (45 overs), Norfolk 157-1 (33.3 overs). Norfolk winning by 9 wickets
Nobby Cobb
Suffolk O70’s vrs Norfolk O70’s at Melton on Thursday 9th July 2015
A strange day in Suffolk (mind you isn’t that always the case) with the weather threatening to change at any time. On arrival it was sunny and dry but very muggy and it was clear to all that these conditions would favour the bowlers. The wicket had suffered from overnight rain which had not been forecast and as a result had been left uncovered. On top of that, the birds had been on the wicket leaving the holes where they had dug out there prey. A definite toss to win. Once again the Norfolk skipper lost the toss and were inserted by Suffolk. (Norfolk are now advertising for a proper tosser for future games).
The wicket proved just as difficult as was thought. Variable bounce, the odd ball just popping off a length and no speed of any magnitude off the wicket. The usual Watson run saving field made scoring difficult and both openers struggled. R.Abbott could have had a wicket in the first over but the chance went down. The same thing happening again in both his second and third overs. Cole was equally difficult to get away especially as he was getting the ball to swing late. The first 10 overs generated just 21 runs and when M.Smith tried to force the pace he was caught at point by P.Knight off the bowling of Cole for 10 (32 balls). M.Pearse was equally unhappy, finding runs hard to come by and the situation did not significantly improve when N.Cobb replaced M.Smith. Scoreboard pressure appeared to get to both batsmen who almost succeeded in creating four possible run outs between them. M.Pearse found the boundary with successive deliveries and the third was destined for the same until R.Waters attempted to gather the ball, only to get a bad bounce that allowed the ball to strike him in the face just below his right eye. Within seconds he was sporting a black eye and had developed a large swelling to the right hand side of his face. He was to take no further part in the game. Twenty overs gone and the score had moved on to 52 when N.Cobb was caught at square leg by D.Howe for 10(33 balls). This brought the inform D.Dewson to the crease however he too struggled initially to get the ball away however M.Pearse was getting into his stride and he added four more boundary’s in quick succession as the score moved on to 74 before he was run out for 43 (68 balls).This brought a mini collapse for the very next ball, new batsman G.Cooke was also run out, unfortunately without facing a ball. The score remained on 74 when G.Saunders, coming in at the fall of Cooke became the new recipient of ‘Daffy Duck’ when trapped lbw off the bowling of Clarke. M.Barnham joined D,Dewson and they started a mini revival adding 39 valuable runs to take the score to 113 after 34 overs. Remarkably M.Barnham only scored just 2 of these runs by the time he was dismissed by Cole after facing 25 balls. The next wicket added 35 more runs with new batsmen R.Carman giving D.Dewson the support he needed as he reached a well earned half century. R.Carman fell to the bowling of P.Knight for 14 (26 balls) with the score on 148-7 in the 40th. S.Fowle went for 3 (12) having added 16 more runs with partner C.Yallop. 164-9 with one over to go, the scoreboard moving on to 169-9 at the close with C.Yallop 11(18) and D.Gale 2 (3) the not out batsmen. A below par score however a creditable score taking into account the loss of 3 wickets so quickly during the middle of the innings. R.Abbott 1-15 and B.Cole 2-18 plus 2-28 from debutant J.Clarke were the pick of the Suffolk bowling attack that was well supported by the fielders.
With so few runs to play with, Norfolk needed an early breakthrough and with just 6 overs gone, C.Yallop had D.Andrews 16 (20 balls) caught by.D.Dewson off the bowling of C.Yallop with the score on 29. This wicket brought in G.Penny to partner R.Ratford who Norfolk considered the two most dangerous Suffolk batsmen. This partnership was just 10 runs old when D.Gale trapped Ratford 15 (38 balls) lbw in the 11th over. G.Penny didn’t look his fluid self and he and skipper C.Watson were finding runs just as hard to come by as the Norfolk batsman had done. D.Gale was giving nothing away and was bowled one more over than usual in his opening spell and was rewarded with a second wicket as G.Cooke took a fine tumbling catch at square leg to remove C.Watson 1(6 balls). Even better was to come when G.Saunders (an early replacement for C.Yallop) bowled G.Penny 6 (24) with a ball that kept really low. Things were looking good for Norfolk, 57-4 with 16 overs gone. B.Cole had come in for Watson and D.Howe for Penny and 54 runs were added by the 31st over before D.Howe 16 (41) was well caught by M.Smith off the bowling of R.Carman R.Carman was bowled out, D.Gale and G.Saunders had two left, and C.Yallop was, unusually for him struggling with both line and length. Without a dedicated fifth bowler, 9 overs needed to be bowled by D.Dewson. B.Cole was completely at home but survived a difficult chance when dropped by N.Cobb behind the wicket and he went on to complete a very good half century. R.Kemp came in to replace the departed D.Howe and he proved to be the perfect foil for the aggressive Cole. A partnership of 45 between this pair took the score to within 13 runs of the total required before Cole 62 (76) played one extravagant shot too many and was bowled by G.Saunders in the 41st over. With all the top bowlers having completed their allotted quota, M.Smith decided to bring himself into the attack against R.Kemp and P.Knights. Four off his first over leaving just 9 from the last three. S,Fowle into the attack with his off spin, a four, then a wide before P.Knights 7 (9 balls) was caught by M.Barnham. 166-8, 43 overs gone and four more runs to get. M.Smith back into the attack bowling to R.Kemp. R.Kemp hits a three and the scores are level. J.Clarke 0 (3) on strike and is bowled by M.Smith. Eight balls remaining, R.Abbott on strike and the injured R.Waters padded up just in case. Dot ball then a lusty swing of the willow dispatches the ball to the fence to give Suffolk a two wicket win. R.Kemp played a superb innings and whilst B.Cole notched up the big score, his contribution to the winning total should not be underestimated.
Not a lot to choose between both sides on the day. The toss was crucial as batting was easier second time around. Suffolk were better in the field, the two run outs were perhaps the turning point. Another 20 runs could have changed the final result. A great game of cricket and Norfolk still await their first Championship win over their ‘Old Enemy’
Nobby Cobb
Surrey O70’s vrs Norfolk O70’s at Kempton on Thursday 25th June 2015
A gorgeous summer’s day dawned as I left ‘The People’s Republic of Bacton’ at 8 o-clock on my way to Kempton for our fixture against Surrey. 1 hour and 20 minutes later I arrived at Thickthorn Services where I left my car and joined up with Gerald. Just like a’ local ‘railway train we then stopped at the Stag at Attleborough to collect Stan, the final member of our travelling team. A fairly uneventful journey until the outskirts of Staines where we encountered heavy traffic congestion. There were warning signs that in half a mile the outside line was closed and two lanes became one. Like all good drivers we took up our position in the left hand lane and crawled towards the merging point, however, traffic was still bombing down the outside lane and demanded to be let into our lane. We discussed this rude behavior and came to the conclusion that these ‘Road Hog’s’ were self centered, selfish individuals who had no consideration for other road users. At this point another ‘Hog’ drew up alongside of us and a broad Norfolk voice said good morning lads. Pearse Saunders and Dewson had duly arrived.
Kempton Cricket Club has its ground almost alongside the famous racecourse. Unfortunately none of the grandeur of the racecourse was reflected within the cricket club. The dressing rooms were archaic, dingy and dark and the communal showers were not unlike those I once saw at Bergen-Belsen. (A quick check revealed no chimneys above the shower room and no warnings relating to Cyclone B were to be found). The playing area was huge. The stumps appeared to me to be like the bottom line that you are asked to read whilst wearing glasses at your opticians, they were so far away. After a short discussion the boundary was reduced however it still left a large area to be covered by ageing cricketers. We could have been forgiven at this point for thinking that there were no more shocks in store, alas that was not so. The wicket looked awful on a square that had numerous weeds growing. More importantly the wicket appeared to have been scarified in some way with small ridges equally spaced across the batting track. It’s a pity C.Palmer had not had a word with the tractor driver for driving on the wicket. Well it was going to be the same for both sides so on with the toss. Mike Smith called and called correctly. He did the decent thing and let the home team have use of the potential minefield.
Five balls in Gale struck. Last week’s Surrey centurion smacked a short ball straight into Mike Smiths hands at extra cover and Surrey were 2-1,Yallop at the other end was right on the money from ball one and the first ten overs only produced 26 runs. To be fair, the wicket was playing ok without any ‘gremlins’ however although nothing kept low, the bounce was unpredictable at times. It wasn’t vicious bounce but more like a tennis ball bounce and had a tendency to hold up. The lack of scoring inevitably induced false strokes, Reid playing across the line to Yallop and departed for 24 with the score on 40-2 with 16 gone. The fielding, much improved on last week and along with the tight bowling was keeping the score at around three an over. Symes called for a quick run and was run out by skipper Smith with the score on 50 whilst Stringer decided to attack the bowling to try to free the shackles. Yallop 9-0-1-27 finished an excellent spell, Gale replaced after 5 with 1-12 had been replaced by Saunders( on debut) and Dewson. Saunders made way for Carmen after 5 overs and a miserly 12 runs and the home side were in dire straights. Springer went with the score on 76 bowled Carmen (27 gone) and then we were treated to a fantastic piece of cricket by Dewson. He bowled to Brewster, Brewster hit it straight back to him. He fielded it low down, turned and threw down the wicket at the bowlers end with the non striker still out of his crease. 87 -5 with 16 overs to go. 17 more runs added and Brewster starting to look as though he was the man to trouble Norfolk. A top edge off the bowling of Dewson and Stan Fowle gratefully took the catch at fly slip. Everything was going well for the visitors. Dewson finished with 1-34 and Carmen with 1-33, both having bowled their 9 overs. Saunders and Gale to bowl the remaining 8 overs with the score on 118-6 . The score progressed to130 before Gale bowled B.Early after a partnership with De-Mell had put on 28 for the seventh wicket. Another tight over from Saunders. Then Gale back to take his 3rd wicket of the innings when he had De-Mel caught behind by wicketkeeper Cobb. The runs had really dried up by now and it was hoped that Gale could get a ‘fifer’ as he started the final over. 2 balls in he had four as Carmen hung on to a fine catch however Wickens and Brown hung on and the innings closed on 141-9 from 45 overs.
This was a wonderful performance in the field by Norfolk. The fielders backed their bowlers, all catches were held and there were only 4 wides bowled. All the bowlers performed well and deserved the credit they got from their colleagues at the tea interval.
A steady start to Norfolk’s innings was needed as the run rate required was just above 3 an over. Smith and Pearse opened the batting and put 17 on the board in the first 4 overs and it looked as though the target would be reached well within the allotted overs.. Surrey then managed to put the brakes on and the runs dried up with only 17 being scored from the next 11 overs. Pearse was driving most deliveries off the front foot but without any real conviction and Smith was forced to try to up the pace. The inevitable happened and he perished when caught by Greenwood off the bowling of De-Mel for 13 (34 balls). 34-1 from 15 and the bowlers on top. N.Cobb in at three and the left/right hand combination unsettled the bowlers to some extent. A partnership of 45 runs in 12 overs boosted the run rate before Cobb was adjudged lbw to Brewster for 22 (35 balls)..D.Dewson, another lefty , joined M.Pearse and this pair took the score to 110 before Pearse was dismissed lbw to Symes for 47 from 111 balls. 11 overs to go and just 32 runs to score. Remarkably M.Barnham (who had replaced M.Pearse) added just 1 run from 10 balls as Dewson rattled up the required number with 43 from just 49 balls. Both batsmen being not out as the total was reached with 3 overs to spare.
This was a fine win which was underpinned by the excellent bowling and fielding which restricted the home team to a score which was perhaps 30 runs short of par. For once the top order did not look totally at home on a pitch that in actual fact played much better than it looked, however the steady start with wickets in hand resulted in a comfortable victory for Norfolk in the end.
Surrey 141-9 (45 overs); Norfolk 142-3 (42 overs): Norfolk o70's win by 7 wickets
Nobby Cobb
Norfolk O70 s vrs Suffolk O70’s at Mundford on Thursday 18th June 2015
A muggy day at Mundford saw Norfolk Over 70’s take on their ‘Old Enemy’ Suffolk O 70’s at Mundford. Once again Skipper Mike Smith tossed the coin and Chris Watson called incorrectly. The track looked perfect for batting however Mike Smith decided to insert the opposition purely on the strength of Chris Watson preference for chasing a target. The weather was never going to change so there did not seem to be any advantage one way or the other.
Andrews and Cornell opened the batting for the visitors and provided a left hand/right hand combination for Gale and Yallop. A cautious start by both batsmen with just 20 coming from the first five overs. The worry for Norfolk was that Yallop was struggling to find his line against the left hander conceding 6 wides from his first two overs. There was absolutely nothing in the wicket and negligible swing and both batsmen were in complete control. Yallop made way for Harris after bowling three overs and initially received some stick going for 2 from his first four as the score moved to 74 without loss in the 14th Over. Gale had given way to Yallop after bowling five overs for 23 and it was immediately apparent that Yallop had been bowling from the wrong end. Three over’s into his second spell he bowled Cornel for 35 (43) and a breakthrough had been achieved in the 15th over with the score on78. Harris then trapped Andrews lbw in the very next over for 27 (49) without another run being scored. Suffolk’s main run scorer G.Penny had come in at number 3 and was now joined by his skipper C.Watson. This proved to be a very successful period for the visitors as they added 109 runs together before James dismissed Watson for 36 (59) with the score on 187 in the 35th over. Penny was in total control. He reached his half century and continued to send the ball to the fence on frequent occasions. Cole joined Penny for the final 10 overs and the 71 partnership was unbroken after 45 overs. Penny duly reached his ‘Ton’ with an over to spare in an innings of 13 fours and one 6 and was not out on 106 (88). His partner Cole also unbeaten on 27 (31). Not a particularly good performance by the bowling attack however most of the bowlers would have had better figures if they had been backed up by their colleagues in the field. Some really shoddy fielding from the 35th over onwards gifting the visitors at least 20 runs. Once again the extras total was excessive, 27, of which 24 were wides and no balls.
Tea was taken and Norfolk’s task of chasing down 259 to win looked daunting but not impossible. Mike Smith changed his batting order to emulate his counterpart. M.Pearse the right hander and N.Cobb the lefty. For once we were treated to a bit of genuine pace as B.Cole opened the bowling for Suffolk. Norfolk started well with both Pearse and Cobb searching for runs. C.Watson normally sets a run saving field and this was again the case, the short boundary well protected and the long one patrolled by an outrider. With boundaries hard to come by, runs were accrued by smart running between the wickets, However with the score on 60, Cobb 18 (41) fell to a fine caught and bowled by Abbott The left handed Dewson replaced his fellow lefty and the score progressed to 74 with 17 overs completed before Pearse 39 (49) was given out lbw to Abbott. A set back in the run chase which got even worse as skipper Smith was caught at the second attempt at point off the bowling of Perrott for just 5 (6).81 for 3 became 84-4 when G.Cooke became the new holder of ‘The Daffy Duck Trophy’ being clean bowled by Perrott.. If Suffolk thought that the game was as good as over they were in for a rude awakening. Dewson was striking the ball well and with partner M.Barnham batting for the first time this season in a championship game and the score moved on to 164-5 with 11 overs remaining. Banham 34 (44) was stumped off the bowling of Knight but the killer blow came just 2 overs later when Dewson 51 (63) was lbw also to Knight. As so often happens with Suffolk, when, Watson wants wickets he has the luxury to go to his ‘Golden Arm bowler D.Howe. Howe is the 5th and often 6th choice bowler but he does have this knack of getting people out with his variable deliverys. Carmen 6 (11), Yallop 4 (4) were his first two victims, Carmen a top edge that the keeper caught at point!. Yallop another lbw victim and the score on 186-7 after 38. Meanwhile Harris was bludgeoning the ball around the park, he just needed a little support. James came, smacked a boundary and departed for 5 but the score had crept to 197-9 with 5 over’s to go. The win was now unlikely but full batting points were still possible. Harris and Gale duly obliged taking the final score to 226 before Harris thumped a rank half tracker off the Howe straight into the hands of Watson at mid on. Harris out for 34 from 30 balls and Gale not out on 7. Howe finished with 3-22 (how (no pun intended) does he do it) and Abbott 2-28 the best bowlers.
A valiant effort in the end to lose by just 32 runs however the better side won on the day. There are lessons to be learned if Norfolk are to progress in the competition. Everyone is aware of the issues and it is hoped that the same mistakes will not be repeated against Surrey next week.
Suffolk O70’s 258-3 (45 overs); Norfolk o70’s 226 all out (45 overs)
Nobby Cobb
Norfolk O70 s vrs Hertfordshire O70’s at Dereham on Thursday 11th June 2015
With the sun blazing down Mike Smith, and Mike Dexter accompanied by the two umpires inspected the wicket and conducted the toss. Mike Smith at long last managed to win one (mainly because Mike Dexter guessed wrong) and decided to let the visitors have first use of what looked a pretty flat track. His team mates were overjoyed at the prospect of 45 overs out in the 23 degree temperatures.
However first blood to the Norfolk skipper as the first wicket went down in the third over when Dave Gale managed to comprehensively bowl P Morris with a ball that sent all three stumps in different directions. Barry Mitchell (always scores well against Norfolk) along with C.Wilson then made the home side suffer, moving the score from 5-1 to the impressive 113 before Mitchell fell to debutant R.Carmen in the 25th over. As often happens in cricket, one wicket brings a second almost immediately and this was the case. The impressive Wilson having reached 67 from just 78 balls with the score on 115 was caught behind off the bowling of G.Harris, another Norfolk debutant and the score no longer looked as impressive as it had two overs previously. Worse was to come as only a further 8 runs were added before M.Newland was bowled by Harris. This appeared to be a slightly controversial dismissal (from the batsman’s point of view) however, the square leg umpire was able to confirm that the batsman had indeed been bowled. M. Dexter was batting in his normal manner. Not one to respond to scoreboard pressure ( more to improving his average) was pushing the ball into the gaps and together with hard hitting Croucher moved the score along to 158-5 before Croucher gave D.Dewson the simplest of catches at short mid wicket off the bowling of G.Harris. The Home team were very happy at this point. 9 overs to go, Dexter at one end and A.Rasheed at the other. Rasheed looked like a number 12 batsmen as he prodded at every ball and it looked just a matter of time before he would lose his wicket. Remember the old adage ‘Never judge a book by its cover, well this was the proof. Rasheed stayed the course scoring 22 and finally Dexter decided to have a go and finished on 41 not out but more importantly taking the score to 214 from the 45 overs, this pair added 56 precious runs in an unbeaten 6th wicket partnership. D.Gale suffered on his return as the unorthodox Rasheed edged runs to the fence, conceding 23 from his final three overs. D.James could not replicate the form of the previous game and came away wicketless. Both the debutants G.Harris and R.Carmen impressed, the former taking three wickets. Overall it was a fair performance by Norfolk with perhaps a need to show a little more discipline to reduce the number of wides and thus only bowl 45 overs and not 47.
An excellent tea between the innings and a presentation to our two most loyal supporters (Willy and Paul) of Norfolk Senior’s caps by Mike Smith.
M.Smith and M.Pearse once again opened the innings against J.Bassill and S.Cragwell and both batsmen appeared to be in total control. M.Smith started the brighter scoring quickly against both bowlers whilst M.Pearse accumulated his runs at a more leisurely rate. Bassill was replaced by Croucher after 12 overs by which time the score had progressed to 48 without loss. Sigwell bowled through and was replaced by T.Foster and this brought an increase to the run rate as his four overs went for 25. With both batsmen looking set, the score moved to 88 without loss with 22 overs gone however M.Smith went down with cramp and had to retire having scored 43 from 76 balls. N.Cobb replaced him and the left hand/right hand combination appeared to upset the bowlers. M.Pearse reached his half century and increased his scoring rate. He was fortunate when dropped in his 60’s and subsequently struggled against the slow delivery’s from A.Rasheed. N.Cobb was scoring steadily, content to play second fiddle to his more aggressive partner. He to survived when dropped at point by M.Dexter however this did not affect him in any way. 159 in the 35th over saw M.Pearse dismissed for 92 of 110 balls with a brilliant caught and bowled by A.Rasheed. D.Dewson arrived at the crease but his stay was short lived, 2 from 5 balls before being caught by A.Rasheed of the bowling of skipper J.Scott. Suddenly the game appeared to have turned in favour of Herts with 53 required from 8 overs. G.Cooke was sent in next with instructions to have a go and he duly obliged. Two successive boundaries and a single put N.Cobb on strike and another boundary and a single brought 13 from the over. Rasheed was bowling well having conceded just 27 from 8 overs however his next two went for 17 and Norfolk were back in the driving seat. The start of the 44th over saw J.Scott bring in all his fielders to stop the single with just 4 needed for victory. Newlands to Cobb, 4 dot balls then the 5th swept backward of square to record a fine 8 wicket victory with 7 balls to spare. N.Cobb ending up not out on 42 from 47 deliveries and G.Cooke 27 not out from just 25 balls. Herts used 7 bowlers but only Rasheed caused the batsmen any real problems and it was a bit of a surprise that Newlands only bowled 3 overs and these late in the innings.
Hertfordshire 214-5. Norfolk 215-2. Norfolk win by 8 wickets
Nobby Cobb
Norfolk O60s Two’s vrs Norfolk O70’s at Hockwold on Tuesday 4th June 2015
On a beautiful sunny day, the Over 60 2nd XI entertained their elders, the Over 70’s at the delightful home of Sir John Ruddick, Hockwold Manor.
Mike Banham (standing in for Gout victim JR) captained the home side whilst Nobby Cobb took charge of ‘Dads Army’. Preliminary’s over and Nobby chose to bat on what looked like an extension of the M1.The track was hard and flat and promised a run fest.
Mike Martin and Gerald Cooke opened the batting for the visitors in the absence of Martin Pearse (away on a photo shoot!!!!!) and Mike Smith (away on another overseas jaunt).Whilst some of the spectators were still trying to erect their deck chairs, Mike Martin was on his way back to the pavilion having faced just 3 delivery’s and failing to trouble the scorers. David James was overjoyed. As the current holder of the infamous ‘Daffy Duck’ trophy (a trophy that he has held for some considerable time) he could now rehearse his after match speech for handing over the trophy to Mike. With the deck chair erecting competition coming to a conclusion, the second wicket fell as numbe 3; Dave Etheridge became the latest recipient of Daffy Duck. No ducks for almost a year then, like busses, two come along at once. Two overs gone, 2 runs scored and 2 wickets down. A quick message to Mrs. JR. Could she bring tea forward to 2.30 as it looked as though the Over 70’s innings would be short lived.
N.Cobb joined Gerald and this pair started to repair the damage. Drinks at 15 overs and the score had progressed to 56 without further loss. Nobby was looking well set as he dispatched the first two deliveries after the break to the fence which did not impress bowler Grenville Ireland. 20 overs gone, 81 runs on the board before Gerald lost his wicket for 31 off 55 deliveries. Next in Derek Dewson, Nobby reached his half century and the score moved on to 135-3 by the second drinks break. Next over saw Nobby bowled by Wynn having scored 62 from 88 balls. Derek was unfortunate when run out by a direct hit from Mike Banham at mid off for 34 off 44 balls with the score on 146 and the home side regained control.
Mike Banham entered the attack and reaped havoc with the lower order, only Carl Yallop 12 and David James 9 offering any real resistance. The innings finally ended in the final over with Mike Banham taking 4 wickets for just 22 runs. A disappointing end with the score on 181, however after the early scare it was perhaps a much better score than had seemed possible.
Another one of Mrs. J.R.s excellent teas and then it was the turn of the home side to bat.
Richard Ellis and Richard Norman opened for the home side and never really looked in trouble against both Dave Gale and Carl Yallop. Richard Norman was dropped by Nobby off the bowling of Carl and he survived a caught and bowled chance off David James .Drinks at 15 with the score on 48-0 and both batsmen looking set. The breakthrough came in the18th over with David James bowling Ellis for 27 from 66 balls with the score on 64. Richard Norman dropped again, this time by Ray Carman and it looked as though Richard had the luck of the devil. Grenville Ireland was looking good however having scored just 13 from 14 balls, he became James’s second victim. 92-2 with 22 overs gone.
Less than a hundred required and still 23 overs left, the game very much in favour of the home side. However cricket is a funny game and it can change in an instance. 102-3 became 102-5 when Perry 3 from 6, Gislam a first ball duck and finally Richard Norman 50 from just 59 deliveries. Two more wickets for James and a direct hit run out by Geoff Harris and once again it was game on. Another wicket in the 32 over, Kingsley Elliff 11 from 21 caught behind off the bowling of Harris. David LeMoir was batting sensibly however he lost another partner just one run later when Colin Atkinson was lbw to Bert Marlow. 122-7 became 148-8, this time Bob Hunt being well caught by G.Harris off his own bowling. Le Moir survived a stumping appeal and along with Neil Wynn pushed the score along.
One particular over going for 16 due to sloppy fielding put the visitors under more pressure but with the score on 172, the 9th wicket fell in the 42 over. Ten to win as Mike Banham strode to the crease resplendent in his helmet. The 43rd over went for 6. Dave Gale bowled the penultimate over, a maiden. Four required off the last over. Single. Single. Dot ball then two runs off the fourth delivery and the home side had earned the bragging rights.
David James bowled very well picking up 4-39 and Geoff Harris picked up 2-25. David Gale deserves a special mention for his figures of 8-3-1-12, taking a wicket for just 1 run when he bowled his second spell of three overs at the death.
A great day’s cricket spent in the delightful setting of Hockwold Cricket Club. Once again we were well looked after by the Ruddick family and our thanks go out to them. Cricket was the winner on the day and the Over 70’s were so pleased to see one or two juniors from their ‘Academy’ showing such good promise. The likes of Mike Banham (the awful coloured helmet will have to go) Richard Norman (lots of luck) and David LeMoir will no doubt ensure that the future is bright (if not too long) for the over 70’s
Over 70's 181 all out (44.1 overs) Over 60 2nd XI 182-9 (44.4 Overs)
Over 60 2nd XI win by one wicket
Nobby Cobb
Kent Ove r70’s vrs Norfolk Over 70’s Thursday 21st May 2015. Bat & Ball ground in Dartford
Norfolk arrived at this famous Kent cricket Club on which W.G,Grace recorded his highest score, Godfrey Evans had his first wicket keeping victim and Colin Cowdry scored his first run, Various touring sides had graced this hallowed turf over the many years that it has been in existence. In spite of its proud history, the current facilities leave much to be desired. The changing rooms were small and cluttered up with all sorts of junk and we were informed that due to a plumbing problem, there was no water at our end of the building. Outside of the pavilion there were more discarded pipes than had been found in Sitting Bulls camp following Custer’s last stand. However, all that said, the pitch was a belter and with the boundary rope adjusted for the old timers it was clear to all that this promised to be a high scoring match. The Norfolk skipper along with his elder statesmen inspected the wicket and came to the conclusion that on winning the toss we would bat and pose a total around 250+. It was at this point that the wheels fell off. Mike Smith (the most useless tosser in the league) walked to the middle and returned with those immortal words ‘we’re in the field lads’. The deep throated groans from the bowlers at this momentous piece of news was only overshadowed by the news that England were 34-4 against New Zealand.
From the off it was apparent that it was a flat batting track, anything short or with width was put away by the openers and by the drinks break, Birmingham had reached his half century and his partner was in the mid forties. Gale had bowled 5 overs, Harrop had completed his 9 and James and Yallop were trying to get a break through. 23 overs gone with the score on 111-0. Another 11 overs passed before Yallop managed to induce a false stroke from Kelly who chopped a ball onto his stumps and departed for 62 from 98 balls with the score on 165. Birmingham was batting well and it looked as though the score would be in the region of 280 especially with 11 overs left and 9 wickets to fall. Strangely the number 3 batsmen looked out of touch and Birmingham had moved into the nineties. The bowlers were bowling tighter lines and the runs dried up. Birmingham was playing for his century and was not prepared to take any risks whilst McCaul just couldn’t put bat on ball. Birmingham duly reached three figures but instead of throwing caution to the wind he continued batting in the same steady way. McCaul eventually ran himself out going for a suicide single having scored just 11 from 34 delivery’s. Birmingham carried his bat for an unbeaten 125 from 138 as the innings closed on 215-2 from 45 overs. This score really was below par especially with Kent scoring just 48 from their last 10 overs. All Norfolk’s five bowlers bowled reasonably well on what was definitely a batters paradise and no doubt feel glad that they will not have to bowl here again this season.
The mood in the Norfolk dressing room at the break was most upbeat. The general feeling was that Kent were 30 odd runs short of a winning total and with a sensible approach the target was well within the capabilities of the batsmen. Smith and Pearse duly opened and were somewhat cautious in their approach. Smith was the more aggressive of the two (in fact Martin Pearse faced 22 deliveries before getting off the mark) and the run rate was hovering around 4 per over. Gradually the tempo increased and when Smith missed a full toss and departed for 31 from 41 deliveries the score had reached 65 from 18 overs. Pearse was now well into his stride and with number 3 bat N.Cobb the score moved on to 113 before Cobb was adjudged lbw for 14 in the 26th over. D.Dewson joined M.Pearse and the scoring rate started to rise. Pearse in particular was forcing the pace and this led to his undoing when he was bowled by Warboys for 90 from121 balls. The score had now reached 176-2 with 39 overs gone. 6 overs to go and 40 wanted. Cooke in and 4 balls later departed for 3 chasing runs without the benefit of time to play himself in. Dewson looked set however his long standing (no pun intended) knee problems restricted his ability to run between the wickets. What could have been a couple invariably resulted in a single. Mike Martin was swinging from the hip, mostly missing but the runs required were being slowly ticked off. Dewson took a risky single however he made his ground and in the process the whole of his 16+ stone weight came down on the unfortunate bowler. Not surprisingly his next delivery was dispatched for 4. Suddenly the scores were level and from the last ball of the 44th over, Mike Martin struck the winning boundary.
A good win for Norfolk however it could be argued that really it was Kent who had lost it. Personal milestones have no place in a team game. If Birmingham had chanced his arm on reaching his ton then the remaining 8 batsmen may have been able to push the score up to 250+ which possibly would have been beyond Norfolk. Having said that, Norfolk had a disciplined approach to their innings. Partnerships were built and the game plan was executed to perfection. Martin Pearse and Derek Dewson scored the bulk of the runs but received good solid support from their colleagues in reaching the target.
Kent 215-2. Norfolk 219-4, Norfolk win by 6 wickets
Nobby Cobb
Norfolk Over 70's vrs Surrey Over 70's at Swanton Morley on Thursday May 7th
Both sides stood for a minutes silence prior to the game in memory of Norfolk Over 70 batsman Mike Delf. Norfolk players were all wearing black armbands as a mark of respect to their departed colleague. Mike's sister and his two grown up sons were in attendance however they didn't see too much cricket as the game ended after 9.4 overs with Norfolk on 19 for no loss. The heavy rain resulted in the game being abandoned
Norfolk Over 70's vrs Essex Over 70's at Little Baddow on Thursday April 30th.
Norfolk travelled to this beautiful little cricket ground deep in the heart of the Essex Countryside on a bright but cold spring day. No matter what took place on the field, events were overshadowed by the collapse of Norfolk batsman.Mike Delf. Emergency services attended and Mike was airlifted the nearby Basildon University Hospital.The match was abandoned.
Unfortunately Mike lost his fight for life and died on Sunday morning
Norfolk O70’S vrs Suffolk O70’s at Halvergate on Thursday 23rd April 2015
Norfolk Over 70’s entertained local rivals Suffolk in a pre season friendly at Halvergate on a sunny but chilly spring day.
Suffolk having suffered two late call off’s (Bob Perrett for starters) were loaned a couple of Norfolk’s squad and were offered first choice of the excellent looking batting strip.The ‘gloveless’ Ratford and Penny opened for the visitors against Gale and Harrop and immediately set about the bowling. Gale looked stiff after Tuesday’ trial game and struggled to find both line and length and was punished heavily by the opening pair. Ratford being the more aggressive soon reached his half century but on 52 he was out to Carmen as he played across the line and was given out lbw. Andrews joined Penney and inspite of Mike Smith changing his bowlers, the runs continued to flow. All the bowlers used who had played in Tuesday’s trial looked stiff and out of sorts and the Suffolk batsmen took full advantage. Penney retired having scored 42 and Andrews was bowled for 39 before the Norfolk attack managed to exert a modicom of control however Suffolk had reached 150 from the first 30 overs. Watson scored 20 before clipping Gale to Dewson at square leg and John Walker (loaned to Suffolk for this game) was bowled by Harrop for 10. Kemp and Howe finished up being the not out batsmen with 14 and 19 respectively with the score on 215-4 from 40 overs. D.Gale 2-31 G.Harrop 1-36 R.Carman 1-40 were the wicket takers
Martin Pearse making his 70’s debut opened the Norfolk innings with Mike Delf against Abbott and Wright and scored at 4 an over as they added 42 in the first 10 overs. Delf played on to Waters with the score on 42 which brought N.Cobb to the crease. 67 for the second wicket, Pearse reaching his 50 before Waters bowled Cobb with the score on 109 after 23 overs. The batsmen were finding Waters difficult to play as he was bowling with the sun directly behind him and he was tossing the ball high in to it. Smith joined Pearse who took his score to 63 before retiring. Dewson and Smith took the score to 161 in the 33 rd over before Dewson was run out for 23 and Smith retired on 18. Cooke and Gale added just 10 before Cooke was stumped off the bowling of Abbott having scored 10. Gale 8 and Fowle4 remained not out as the innings closed on 186-4, 29 runs short of victory. R.Waters 2-32, R.Abbott 1-26 the wicket takers.
A good work out however the wisdom of playing a trial and a friendly fixture within 3 days proved too much for some of the old bodies on display. No doubt the two Championship matches will be played in a more competitive manner later in the season.
We were well looked after by Halvergate where the facilities and the tea were excellent. Our thanks to all concerned at the Club for making us so welcome.
N.Cobb
Both sides stood for a minutes silence prior to the game in memory of Norfolk Over 70 batsman Mike Delf. Norfolk players were all wearing black armbands as a mark of respect to their departed colleague. Mike's sister and his two grown up sons were in attendance however they didn't see too much cricket as the game ended after 9.4 overs with Norfolk on 19 for no loss. The heavy rain resulted in the game being abandoned
Norfolk Over 70's vrs Essex Over 70's at Little Baddow on Thursday April 30th.
Norfolk travelled to this beautiful little cricket ground deep in the heart of the Essex Countryside on a bright but cold spring day. No matter what took place on the field, events were overshadowed by the collapse of Norfolk batsman.Mike Delf. Emergency services attended and Mike was airlifted the nearby Basildon University Hospital.The match was abandoned.
Unfortunately Mike lost his fight for life and died on Sunday morning
Norfolk O70’S vrs Suffolk O70’s at Halvergate on Thursday 23rd April 2015
Norfolk Over 70’s entertained local rivals Suffolk in a pre season friendly at Halvergate on a sunny but chilly spring day.
Suffolk having suffered two late call off’s (Bob Perrett for starters) were loaned a couple of Norfolk’s squad and were offered first choice of the excellent looking batting strip.The ‘gloveless’ Ratford and Penny opened for the visitors against Gale and Harrop and immediately set about the bowling. Gale looked stiff after Tuesday’ trial game and struggled to find both line and length and was punished heavily by the opening pair. Ratford being the more aggressive soon reached his half century but on 52 he was out to Carmen as he played across the line and was given out lbw. Andrews joined Penney and inspite of Mike Smith changing his bowlers, the runs continued to flow. All the bowlers used who had played in Tuesday’s trial looked stiff and out of sorts and the Suffolk batsmen took full advantage. Penney retired having scored 42 and Andrews was bowled for 39 before the Norfolk attack managed to exert a modicom of control however Suffolk had reached 150 from the first 30 overs. Watson scored 20 before clipping Gale to Dewson at square leg and John Walker (loaned to Suffolk for this game) was bowled by Harrop for 10. Kemp and Howe finished up being the not out batsmen with 14 and 19 respectively with the score on 215-4 from 40 overs. D.Gale 2-31 G.Harrop 1-36 R.Carman 1-40 were the wicket takers
Martin Pearse making his 70’s debut opened the Norfolk innings with Mike Delf against Abbott and Wright and scored at 4 an over as they added 42 in the first 10 overs. Delf played on to Waters with the score on 42 which brought N.Cobb to the crease. 67 for the second wicket, Pearse reaching his 50 before Waters bowled Cobb with the score on 109 after 23 overs. The batsmen were finding Waters difficult to play as he was bowling with the sun directly behind him and he was tossing the ball high in to it. Smith joined Pearse who took his score to 63 before retiring. Dewson and Smith took the score to 161 in the 33 rd over before Dewson was run out for 23 and Smith retired on 18. Cooke and Gale added just 10 before Cooke was stumped off the bowling of Abbott having scored 10. Gale 8 and Fowle4 remained not out as the innings closed on 186-4, 29 runs short of victory. R.Waters 2-32, R.Abbott 1-26 the wicket takers.
A good work out however the wisdom of playing a trial and a friendly fixture within 3 days proved too much for some of the old bodies on display. No doubt the two Championship matches will be played in a more competitive manner later in the season.
We were well looked after by Halvergate where the facilities and the tea were excellent. Our thanks to all concerned at the Club for making us so welcome.
N.Cobb
April
Thur 23rd Norfolk vrs Suffolk Halvergate Lost By 29 runs
Thur 30th Essex vrs Norfolk Little Baddow Match Abandoned
May
Tues 05th Two Counties vrs Norfolk & Suffolk Copford Match Cancelled
Thur 07th Norfolk vrs Surrey Swanton Morley Match Abandoned
Tues 19th Two Counties vrs Norfolk & Suffolk* Mistley Match Abandoned
Thur 21st Kent vrs Norfolk Gravesend Won by 6 wickets
June
Thur 04th Norfolk Over 60 vrs Norfolk Over 70 Hockwold Lost by 1 wicket
Thur 11th Norfolk vrs Hertfordshire Dereham Won by 8 wickets
Thur 18th Norfolk vrs Suffolk Mundford Lost by 32 runs
Thur 25th Surrey vrs Norfolk Kempton C.C Won by 7 wickets
July
Thur 09th Suffolk vrs Norfolk Melton St Audrey Lost by 2 wickets
Thur 16th Norfolk vrs Kent Mundford Won by 9 wickets
Mon 20th Norfolk/Cambs vrs Australian Tourists Cambridge Won by 8 wickets
Wed 22nd Two Counties vrs Norfolk Halstead Won by 5 wickets
Thur 30th Hertfordshire vrs Norfolk Preston Won by 94 runs
August
Thur 06th Norfolk vrs Essex Mundford Lost by 3 runs
Thur 13th Norfolk vrs Surrey Halvergate Lost By 50 runs
Thur 20th Essex vrs Norfolk Belhus Lost by 93 runs
September
Tuesday 01 Hertfordshire 3rds vrs Norfolk Harpenden Rained off
Thur 23rd Norfolk vrs Suffolk Halvergate Lost By 29 runs
Thur 30th Essex vrs Norfolk Little Baddow Match Abandoned
May
Tues 05th Two Counties vrs Norfolk & Suffolk Copford Match Cancelled
Thur 07th Norfolk vrs Surrey Swanton Morley Match Abandoned
Tues 19th Two Counties vrs Norfolk & Suffolk* Mistley Match Abandoned
Thur 21st Kent vrs Norfolk Gravesend Won by 6 wickets
June
Thur 04th Norfolk Over 60 vrs Norfolk Over 70 Hockwold Lost by 1 wicket
Thur 11th Norfolk vrs Hertfordshire Dereham Won by 8 wickets
Thur 18th Norfolk vrs Suffolk Mundford Lost by 32 runs
Thur 25th Surrey vrs Norfolk Kempton C.C Won by 7 wickets
July
Thur 09th Suffolk vrs Norfolk Melton St Audrey Lost by 2 wickets
Thur 16th Norfolk vrs Kent Mundford Won by 9 wickets
Mon 20th Norfolk/Cambs vrs Australian Tourists Cambridge Won by 8 wickets
Wed 22nd Two Counties vrs Norfolk Halstead Won by 5 wickets
Thur 30th Hertfordshire vrs Norfolk Preston Won by 94 runs
August
Thur 06th Norfolk vrs Essex Mundford Lost by 3 runs
Thur 13th Norfolk vrs Surrey Halvergate Lost By 50 runs
Thur 20th Essex vrs Norfolk Belhus Lost by 93 runs
September
Tuesday 01 Hertfordshire 3rds vrs Norfolk Harpenden Rained off
