Over 70's Reports 2016
lApril 21st 2016 was the date of the annual warm up game between Suffolk and Norfolk at Worlingworth in Suffolk. The groundsman had done his very best to provide a wicket however, the ground had been under water just 4 days before. Both teams accepted the fact that the wicket would have been unfit for a competative match but decided to go ahead with a warm up. For the record. Norfolk won the toss and inserted Suffolk. 45 overs later Suffolk had reached 98 for the loss of 10 wickets (both sides playing 12 men). Norfolk rotated their batsmen to ensure everyone had a knock and finished on 84 all out in the 43rd over. It was a good chance to look at new players with the result non important however the wisdom of playing competative cricket in April should be challenged.
Thursday 28th April Essex Over 70's vrs Norfolk Over 70's
The scheduled Seevent Championship fixture between Essex and Norfolk scheduled for Thursday 28th April became a victim of the inclement weather with the game being called off by Essex some 28 hours prior to the scheduled start as the ground was waterlogged
The scheduled Seevent Championship fixture between Essex and Norfolk scheduled for Thursday 28th April became a victim of the inclement weather with the game being called off by Essex some 28 hours prior to the scheduled start as the ground was waterlogged
Thurday 5th May Kent Over 70's vrs Norfolk Over 70's at 4 Elms Cricket Club
Into the merry month of May and a change in the weather for the better. With the sun shining, the long trip to 4 Elms Cricket Club in Kent did not seem so daunting.
A lovely wicket ,tinged with a little green was a sight to see however, the outfield was a tad on the long side.
Nobby Cobb in his first game as Norfolk Over 70 captain called correctly and decided to have first use of the strip.
Prior to the game Martin Pearse presented the frst of the special caps to be awarded to players who have represented the county on a minimum of fifty games, Today's recipients were Mike Smith, Geoff Saunders and Nobby Cobb, David James acted as official photographer and after taking 6 pictures of his thumb and forefinger managed to get two decent pictures of Geoff and Mike Smith. Unfortunately Geoff (currently known as Marigold) then took over and finished up in video mode mixing up head and shoulder shots with great shots of the unmoving grass. Anyway off to the game.
Openers Martin Pearse and Gerald Cooke got the visitors of to a solid start against a very good Kent attack scoring 43 from the first 13 overs. Cooke then perished as he miscued a drive and was caught at mid on for 18 off 37 balls. Nobby then joined Martin and after two near run outs took the score to 63 before Nobby dragged a ball back onto his stumps and departed for 15 from 28 deliveries. The third wicket was a long time coming as Derek Dewson and M.Pearse took the score along to 167 in the 40th over before Dereck was bowled by Millen for 34 from 60 balls faced. The running between the wickets by this pair was like Saturday nights Come Dancing-Slow.Slow quick quick slow, however it was effective adding 104 priceless runs.Martin had added yet another half century to his long career and was upping the tempo and this led to his demise when adjudged lbw to Millen. A fine knock of 87 from 117 balls. With the score on 176 and just 4 overs remaing, Nobby altered the batting order in the hope that some of the big hitters could lift the score beyond the 200 mark (a score thought to be just above par). Although both Mike Smith and Geoff Saunders threw the bat at everything, tight bowling restricted this pair to just 14 runs from the final 24 deliveries, leaving Norfolk on 190-4 at the close. Millen with 3-44 was the leading wicket taker, however Rod Warboys with 1-28 showed everyone why he has been selected for the England Over 70 squad for the remaider of the season.
Kent's reply was spectacular to start with as both Birmingham and Kelly set about Dave Gale and Geoff Saunders right from the first ball. 36 runs were conceeded in the first 8 overs and niether batsman appeared to be in any trouble. David Powell replaced Gale and his second ball was hit for six by Birmingham who appeared to be a man on a mission.Unfortunately for him he only lasted another over before he edged the second ball of Powell's next over and Nobby Cobb took a smart catch standing up behind the stumps. 47-1 and 11 overs bowled. Saunders had now found both line and length and was proving difficult to score off and as a result the skipper kept him on past the normal five over stint. The same could be said about Powell as his left arm bowling was miserly. Scoreboard pressure got to Kelly and he had a swish at Saunders and was comprehensively bowled with the score still on 47 and Norfolk had regained the initative. Derek Dewson replaced Saunders after he had bowled 7 of his nine overs and he also proved difficult to get away by Walker and Cutler.The overs were ticking by and shortly after the drinks break, Dewson struck twice in one over. First he took a stunning return catch from Walker 13 from 44 and then two balls later had Cutler caught behind by Cobb also 13 from 44. Powell bowled his allotted 9 overs and finished with 9-2-1-24 and was replaced by Stan Fowle who unfortunately recieved the treatment from both Perryman and Millen as they tried to up the run rate.This pair added 55 runs for the 5th wicket and succesfully hit Fowle out of the attack after just three overs.
David James was next to join the attack and you never really know which David is going to turn up. Today we got the real deal as he bowled 6 overs at the death. taking 2-26 in the process whilst first Gale 5 overs and then Saunders 2 overs secured the other end. In spite of a ( tactical ?) retirement through injury of a batsman who had scored 10 off 30 balls, Norfolk eased home with 12 runs to spare.
Norfolk 190-4 945 overs) defeated Kent 178-8. (45 overs) by 12 runs
G.M.Cobb
Into the merry month of May and a change in the weather for the better. With the sun shining, the long trip to 4 Elms Cricket Club in Kent did not seem so daunting.
A lovely wicket ,tinged with a little green was a sight to see however, the outfield was a tad on the long side.
Nobby Cobb in his first game as Norfolk Over 70 captain called correctly and decided to have first use of the strip.
Prior to the game Martin Pearse presented the frst of the special caps to be awarded to players who have represented the county on a minimum of fifty games, Today's recipients were Mike Smith, Geoff Saunders and Nobby Cobb, David James acted as official photographer and after taking 6 pictures of his thumb and forefinger managed to get two decent pictures of Geoff and Mike Smith. Unfortunately Geoff (currently known as Marigold) then took over and finished up in video mode mixing up head and shoulder shots with great shots of the unmoving grass. Anyway off to the game.
Openers Martin Pearse and Gerald Cooke got the visitors of to a solid start against a very good Kent attack scoring 43 from the first 13 overs. Cooke then perished as he miscued a drive and was caught at mid on for 18 off 37 balls. Nobby then joined Martin and after two near run outs took the score to 63 before Nobby dragged a ball back onto his stumps and departed for 15 from 28 deliveries. The third wicket was a long time coming as Derek Dewson and M.Pearse took the score along to 167 in the 40th over before Dereck was bowled by Millen for 34 from 60 balls faced. The running between the wickets by this pair was like Saturday nights Come Dancing-Slow.Slow quick quick slow, however it was effective adding 104 priceless runs.Martin had added yet another half century to his long career and was upping the tempo and this led to his demise when adjudged lbw to Millen. A fine knock of 87 from 117 balls. With the score on 176 and just 4 overs remaing, Nobby altered the batting order in the hope that some of the big hitters could lift the score beyond the 200 mark (a score thought to be just above par). Although both Mike Smith and Geoff Saunders threw the bat at everything, tight bowling restricted this pair to just 14 runs from the final 24 deliveries, leaving Norfolk on 190-4 at the close. Millen with 3-44 was the leading wicket taker, however Rod Warboys with 1-28 showed everyone why he has been selected for the England Over 70 squad for the remaider of the season.
Kent's reply was spectacular to start with as both Birmingham and Kelly set about Dave Gale and Geoff Saunders right from the first ball. 36 runs were conceeded in the first 8 overs and niether batsman appeared to be in any trouble. David Powell replaced Gale and his second ball was hit for six by Birmingham who appeared to be a man on a mission.Unfortunately for him he only lasted another over before he edged the second ball of Powell's next over and Nobby Cobb took a smart catch standing up behind the stumps. 47-1 and 11 overs bowled. Saunders had now found both line and length and was proving difficult to score off and as a result the skipper kept him on past the normal five over stint. The same could be said about Powell as his left arm bowling was miserly. Scoreboard pressure got to Kelly and he had a swish at Saunders and was comprehensively bowled with the score still on 47 and Norfolk had regained the initative. Derek Dewson replaced Saunders after he had bowled 7 of his nine overs and he also proved difficult to get away by Walker and Cutler.The overs were ticking by and shortly after the drinks break, Dewson struck twice in one over. First he took a stunning return catch from Walker 13 from 44 and then two balls later had Cutler caught behind by Cobb also 13 from 44. Powell bowled his allotted 9 overs and finished with 9-2-1-24 and was replaced by Stan Fowle who unfortunately recieved the treatment from both Perryman and Millen as they tried to up the run rate.This pair added 55 runs for the 5th wicket and succesfully hit Fowle out of the attack after just three overs.
David James was next to join the attack and you never really know which David is going to turn up. Today we got the real deal as he bowled 6 overs at the death. taking 2-26 in the process whilst first Gale 5 overs and then Saunders 2 overs secured the other end. In spite of a ( tactical ?) retirement through injury of a batsman who had scored 10 off 30 balls, Norfolk eased home with 12 runs to spare.
Norfolk 190-4 945 overs) defeated Kent 178-8. (45 overs) by 12 runs
G.M.Cobb
Thursday 12th May 2016 Norfolk v Surrey at Mundford
Norfolk Over 70’s entertained Surrey at Mundford on Thursday 12th May on a lovely sunny day. Surrey won the toss and asked Norfolk to bat first.
Norfolk opened with Cooke and Pearse and this pair added 22 for the first wicket before Cooke was bowled by De Mer for 13 off 29 balls with the score on 21. Cobb replaced Cooke and was dropped first ball by the Surrey keeper Reid and together with Pearse took the score along to 60 when he perished. Caught at point by Brewster for 27 from 35 balls received. Dewson joined Pearse and the score moved along at a steady pace as this pair added 48 runs to the total before Pearse skied a delivery and was caught by Kingan off the bowling of Wells for 36 from 66 balls faced. 25 overs gone and just 108 runs scored. Dewson looked in good form although he was struggling with a groin injury which restricted his ability to run. Powell played a cameo role adding 13 from 26 balls before being stumped by Reid off Gray. 141-4 soon became 148-5 when Saunders lost his wicket in an attempt to up the run rate. A change to the batting order saw James pushed up the order and the score moved on to 192-6 before Dewson took one risk too many and was bowled by Early for a very good 70 runs which included 8 boundaries. James finished on 16 not out and Barnham 1 from his only delivery as the innings closed on 193-6. This score was just a little below par as most people thought 200 to 220 would be hard to beat.
Surreys reply did not start well, Grenwood-Howe snapped up by Dewson in the slips of Saunders for 2, and then fellow opener went exactly the same way for 3 with the score on 15-2. England player Maynard dropped by Cobb second ball perished on his next delivery for 0 and Saunders now had 3 wickets with the score on 18-3.Saunders was bowling extremely well and added another wicket to his total when Kingan top edged one to fly slip and Gale took the catch. At this point Surrey were in deep trouble with the score on 27-4. Symes and Wells the new batsmen and Saunders out of the attack. A steady approach by the batsmen although Wells frequently showed his intent whenever the ball was in his arc. Powel out if the attack after 5 overs and it was down to Carman and James to try to break the partnership. James struck and Symes departed for 27 from 45 balls but the score had moved on to 89-5 with his dismissal. Wells was proving difficult to control and was scoring at will. Branch replaced Symes and was dropped by Saunders but this, like the earlier dropped chance did not prove expensive as he fell just three balls later without scoring, caught by Cooke off the bowling of James. 97-6 and just under a 100 to win. Brewster and Wells then set about the bowling, Wells in particular punishing anything that was short or wide. Eventually though he gave a chance but to Norfolk’s dismay , Pearse at long on misjudged the catch and the chance went begging. Brewster departed for 22 from 40 balls with the score on 146-7 and Cobb was forced to bring on his opening bowlers in a last chance to break up the partnership between Wells and De Mel. Sadly the gamble failed and with these two bowled out Surrey were left with needing just 5 runs off the last two overs. Powell back into the attack and just 3 balls later Surrey passed Norfolk’s score to win the game.
How did Surrey manage to win this game, the dropped catch was significant but there were some indifferent moments in the field. Perhaps the field placing could and should have been better and too many heads dropped towards the end. Stephen Wells won this match for Surrey and his 81not out from just 82 balls was superb. Saunders bowled well for Norfolk to finish with 4-36 and once again David James stepped up to the plate with 2-32. Derek Dewsons 70 was instrumental in Norfolks total however there needs to be bigger and quicker contributions from the top order batsmen if scores in excess of 200 are to be reached.
Norfolk 193-6 (45 overs) lost to Surrey 194-7 (43.3) by 3 wickets
G.M.Cobb
Norfolk Over 70’s entertained Surrey at Mundford on Thursday 12th May on a lovely sunny day. Surrey won the toss and asked Norfolk to bat first.
Norfolk opened with Cooke and Pearse and this pair added 22 for the first wicket before Cooke was bowled by De Mer for 13 off 29 balls with the score on 21. Cobb replaced Cooke and was dropped first ball by the Surrey keeper Reid and together with Pearse took the score along to 60 when he perished. Caught at point by Brewster for 27 from 35 balls received. Dewson joined Pearse and the score moved along at a steady pace as this pair added 48 runs to the total before Pearse skied a delivery and was caught by Kingan off the bowling of Wells for 36 from 66 balls faced. 25 overs gone and just 108 runs scored. Dewson looked in good form although he was struggling with a groin injury which restricted his ability to run. Powell played a cameo role adding 13 from 26 balls before being stumped by Reid off Gray. 141-4 soon became 148-5 when Saunders lost his wicket in an attempt to up the run rate. A change to the batting order saw James pushed up the order and the score moved on to 192-6 before Dewson took one risk too many and was bowled by Early for a very good 70 runs which included 8 boundaries. James finished on 16 not out and Barnham 1 from his only delivery as the innings closed on 193-6. This score was just a little below par as most people thought 200 to 220 would be hard to beat.
Surreys reply did not start well, Grenwood-Howe snapped up by Dewson in the slips of Saunders for 2, and then fellow opener went exactly the same way for 3 with the score on 15-2. England player Maynard dropped by Cobb second ball perished on his next delivery for 0 and Saunders now had 3 wickets with the score on 18-3.Saunders was bowling extremely well and added another wicket to his total when Kingan top edged one to fly slip and Gale took the catch. At this point Surrey were in deep trouble with the score on 27-4. Symes and Wells the new batsmen and Saunders out of the attack. A steady approach by the batsmen although Wells frequently showed his intent whenever the ball was in his arc. Powel out if the attack after 5 overs and it was down to Carman and James to try to break the partnership. James struck and Symes departed for 27 from 45 balls but the score had moved on to 89-5 with his dismissal. Wells was proving difficult to control and was scoring at will. Branch replaced Symes and was dropped by Saunders but this, like the earlier dropped chance did not prove expensive as he fell just three balls later without scoring, caught by Cooke off the bowling of James. 97-6 and just under a 100 to win. Brewster and Wells then set about the bowling, Wells in particular punishing anything that was short or wide. Eventually though he gave a chance but to Norfolk’s dismay , Pearse at long on misjudged the catch and the chance went begging. Brewster departed for 22 from 40 balls with the score on 146-7 and Cobb was forced to bring on his opening bowlers in a last chance to break up the partnership between Wells and De Mel. Sadly the gamble failed and with these two bowled out Surrey were left with needing just 5 runs off the last two overs. Powell back into the attack and just 3 balls later Surrey passed Norfolk’s score to win the game.
How did Surrey manage to win this game, the dropped catch was significant but there were some indifferent moments in the field. Perhaps the field placing could and should have been better and too many heads dropped towards the end. Stephen Wells won this match for Surrey and his 81not out from just 82 balls was superb. Saunders bowled well for Norfolk to finish with 4-36 and once again David James stepped up to the plate with 2-32. Derek Dewsons 70 was instrumental in Norfolks total however there needs to be bigger and quicker contributions from the top order batsmen if scores in excess of 200 are to be reached.
Norfolk 193-6 (45 overs) lost to Surrey 194-7 (43.3) by 3 wickets
G.M.Cobb
Thursday 2nd June 2016 Norfolk Over 70's vrs Suffolk Over 70's at Old Buckenham
A week of bad weather had put this game in doubt however Mike Banham prepared a wicket the day before and the covers did their job preventing the overnight rain from doing any damage. It was bitter cold with an icy wind blowing across the ground and the sky was overcast. All of these facts were taken onboard by N.Cobb when he won the toss and asked Suffolk to bat first.
Andrews and Penny opened the battind against both Gale and Saunders and whilst both bowlers started with a maiden, this was not a sign of things to come. Both Gale and Saunders were out of the attack after eight overs and Suffolk had only managed to score 23 runs. Things were about to change. D.James into the attack and after two overs he had been hit out of it ,conceeding 20 runs, 19 of these in his second over against Penny. Carman and Powel. Carman and Powel managed to apply some control and Norfolk received a boost when Penny retired hurt on 30 with a hamstring injury. Messent joined Andrews and the score had reached 131 with 31 overs gone before Messant was LBW to Yallop for 38. Skipper Watson joined Andrews and the score had moved on to 150 before Andrews was bowled by Dewson for a fine 58. Spall in at number 5 added 7 to his score before becoming the second Suffolk player to retire hurt again with a hamstring problem. Things got no better as Dewson dragged Watson down the wicket leaving N.Cobbwith the easiest of stumpings. 167-3 after 40 overs. Perrett didnt last long, getting a particularly nasty delivery from Saunders that took middle stump with the score on 174-4 with three overs remaining.D.Howe and R.Wilson held out finishing with 11 and 2 respectively as the innings closed on 189-4.
Dewson 9-0-2-43, Saunders 9-1-1-26 and Yallop 3-0-1-13.
This score was about par and no doubt would have been a lot higher had Penny not retired. It just needed Norfolk to get off to a similar start to Suffolk if they were going to win.
A change to the usual batting line up saw M.Smith and G.Cooke open the innings agains Perrett and Abbott and it soon became apparent that runs were going to be difficult to get against the miserly Perrett and reliable Abbot. Just eight runs from the first 7 overs incresed the pressure on the openers and Smith trying to force the pace was bowled by Abbot in the 8th over having scored just 2 runs. Worse was to come as Cobb went the same way as Smith with just 5 against his name. In the 13th over, Cooke misjudged a short delivery from Wilson and Messant took an easy catch at square leg. Cooke gone for 11 and Norfolk in deep trouble at 31-3. Dewson and Saunders steadied the ship and put together a very useful partnership, taking the score to 88 in the 30th over before Saunders holed out to Spall of the bowling of Howe for 19. A terrible mix up between Dewson and Barnham resulted in Barnham being run out for 2, the score having just moved on to 92. Powel replaced Barnham at the crease but wickets continued to fall. Dewson departed for 47 when bowled by Perret followed by James wh was caught behind by Spall off the bowling of Howe with the score on 114-7 after 35 overs. Carman fell victim to the impressive Perrett when bowled for 2 and Powel provided Howe with his third wicket as he was stumped by Spall for 12. Yallop remained 0 not out The innings closed in the 40th over with Norfolk 121 all out (D.Gale unable to bat-injured)
Howe 5.5-1-3-18, Abbott 9-2-2-11 and Perrett 6-1-2-13
Suffolks win was no more than they deserved. Their batsmen batted better and their bowlers out bowled the Norfolk bowling unit .Enough said!
Suffolk 189-4(45 overs) defeated Norfolk 121 all out (39.5 overs) by 68 runs
Monday 4th July Norfolk Over 70's vrs Sussex Over 70's at Dereham Cricket Club
At long last the weather changed and for the first time since early June, The Over 70’s contested a Seevent League match. The weather on Monday 4th July whilst muggy stayed dry and the outfield had dried out from the previous days rain. Not surprisingly the wicket, although well protected by covers looked a trifle suspect.
Nobby, unlike his predecessor, won the toss for the second time in a row, and put Sussex in and was rewarded after just 4 balls Simmons was clean bowled by Gale. Simmons, just one of the current Sussex side doubling up (Over 60’s first XI and 70’s) departing for 0 following his ton in his previous game for the 60’s. Meads was batting steadily but his portly figure restricted his ’ running?’ between the wickets to singles. The boundary seemed a long, long way from the middle and were well patrolled by the sweepers. P.Crees at number 3 was a hard hitting batsman who caused all the bowlers problems as he proved to be the rock of the Sussex innings. Meads went for 24, caught behind by Cobb off the bowling of Dewson after a belated appeal with the score on 77 in the 19th over. Both Gale and Saunders were out of the attack being replaced by Dewson and Carmen. The latter being withdrawn after just two overs that cost 22 runs.Crees and Johnson added 40 runs before Johnson was well caught by Yallop off the bowling of the re called Saunders, replacing Dewson who was bowled out with figures of 1-32. 117-3 from 29,with Sussex in a strong position suddenly suffered a mini collapse. Scolley brilliantly caught one handed by the bowler Yallop went for 4 and Sticklells his replacement followed shortly when bowled by Gale for 3.Sussex were now at 156-6 with 35 overs gone and Norfolk appeared to be getting on top. Just one fly in the ointment Crees; He had reached his half century and had never looked in any trouble throught his innings. With partners running out, Crees treated the spectators to some very aggressive batting as he began to find the boundary on a regular basis,Barker went for 3 bowled Saunders. Elsey bowled Gale for 1, then Crees reached his ton with a boundary off Saunders with 3 overs to go. Saunders however had his revenge in the last over when Carman took the catch that saw Crees depart for 113 of just 118 balls with the score on 202-9. Just one more run was added before McNeile was run out of the final ball of the innings.
This was an extremely good display by the home side to restrict the Championship favourites to 203. All the bowlers performed well against two or three batsmen currently plying their trade with their Over 60’s first XI. Special praise should be given to both David Gale 4-31 and Geoff Saunders 3-33 who took the bulk of the wickets however it was a good solid performance by the bowling unit.
If Norfolk were going to win this game, the batsmen were going to have to emulate their bowlers .A solid start was essential and a run rate of around 4 an over would need to be achieved from the start. Once again the opening pair were changed. A left/right handed pair to try to put the bowlers off their line. Pearse and Cobb the openers and both of the objectives were achived, with the running between the wickets causing the fielding side problems. 30 on the board from 8 overs became 60 fom 16. Neither batsman being in any trouble.With the drinks break approaching, a loose shot from Cobb saw the ball balloon to Legg at point and the first wicket went down on 77, Cobb for 33 off 52. Dewson, still suffering the effects of a virus did not look at all comfortable at the crease and with only 1 to his name was bowled by Johnson with a ball that kept a bit low. 90-2 became 96-3 when Smith suffered the same fate as Dewson bowled by Johnson with a ball that kept even lower . Saunders became the new keeper of ‘Daffy Duck’ when Johnson managed to get another ball to skid through a little on the low side and the enevitable lbw decision was given. Norfolk in deep trouble at 96-4. Cooke caught Milner bowled Crees for 6, Powell bowled Crees for 9 and James suffering the same for 0 and the score had meandered on to 128-7. Pearse had reached his half century and was continuing to accrue runs whilst all around him was chaos and dismay. A short sharp cameo from Carl Yallop brought him 13 runs (only the third player to reach double figures) and his support enabled Pearse to reach three figures. Yallop out, one ball to go and 1 more run needed for another batting point. Carmen the batsman, Elsey the bowler and Toombs the umpire who raised the digit to give the batsman out lbw and deny Norfolk the extra point.
Martin Pearse carried his bat, finishing on 107 from 141 balls which unfortunately was only good enough for him to finish on the losing side. Once again Norfolk’s bowlers had done the County proud only for the batsmen to fail to rise to the challenge, six batsmen scoring just 28 runs between them.
However there were some positives to be gained. All the bowlers did their part, bowling out Sussex for the first time this season and the fielding was good in so much as no catches went down. The opening pair did give the innings momentum with 77 at a good rate and against possibly the best overall bowling attack within the Championship.
Sussex 203-10 (45 overs) defeated Norfolk 174-9 (45 overs) by 29 runs
G.M.Cobb
Surrey Over 70s vrs Norfolk Over 70’s Puttenham 7th 2016
The long journey to Puttenham in Suurey was made in bright sunshine and for once there was no threat of rain. The cricket ground is set in the middle of a golf course with excellent views of the surounding countryside.. A lovely pavilion, changing rooms and showers plus tea and biscuits on arrival;what more could you ask for.
One look at the well prepared wicket and the batsmen purred. Flat. Hard and not a touch of green, defiately a toss to win. A quick health and safety brief!!. Whilst fielding down at the bottom of the slope, beware of flying golf balls. Should a golf ball find its way onto the cricket area, would the nearest fielder pick it up and place it outside the boundary whereupon the golfer would get a free drop without penalty.
On to the game. Toss won for the second game in a row by Nobby who gleefully announced that Norfolk would bat. Pearse and Cobb opened against the bowling of Mel and Early. A slow start from the first 5 overs brought just eight runs however the next five added 22. Both batsmen were looking set until Cobb played around a delivery from Mel and was bowled for 20 off 38 balls. 48-1 with 12 gone. A reasonable start however Dewson found himself short of his ground as a result of a direct hit from the Surrey skipper and departed for 4 with the score at 51-2. Smith joined Pearse and this pair moved the score along to 66 before a dreadful mix up between the two batsmen resulted in the second run out of the innings and Pearse out for 39 from 55 balls. Things were no longer looking so good for the visitors as the runs dried up and when Smith was adjudged lbw to Symes in the 24th over (once again a wicket following a drinks break)the score had just moved on to 74-4, Smith having scored 9 from 20 balls faced. Saunders was joined by Barnham but neither batsmen were able to score freely as Maynard and Gray joined the attack. Barnham caught in two minds lobbed an easy return catch to Gray having scored 2 from 16. 83-5 and 30 overs gone on a flat wicket. Cooke next in but he to found the going hard. 6 from 20 against the slow looping deliveries from Gray. Yet another lbw decision resulted in Cooke’s departure with the score at 95-6. A brief flourish with the Bat from James brought him 13 runs from just 17 balls however with the score on 110. Saunders departed, lbw to Maynard with 14 from 58 deliveries. James bowled Wickens,Yallop caught off the bowling of Gray and Carmen bowled by Wickens for a duck saw the innings end on 116 in the 42nd over.
Once again only two batsmen passed 20 and only two more recorded double figures. Two batsmen scoring half the runs is just not good enough on a wicket that gave the bowlers no help at all. Gray with 3-18 and Wickens 2-22 the main wicket takers for Surrey.
Not a very happy Norfolk dressing room at the tea interval and some pretty glum faces on some of the fielding side as they took the field after the break.
It was crucial that IF Norfolk were to stand any chance of winning this game then they needed to take wickets and they needed them early. A single off Gales first over and the same result off Saunders however there was a bonus. Reid clean bowled by a ball that cut back sharply and took the off stump. 6 overs gone,9 runs scored and Surrey finding runs hard to get. Over 7 and Gale strikes, this time hiding his slower ball that clean bowled the dangerous Green-Wood Hone. Kingan in, Kingan out next over as Saunders produced another beauty to clean bowl him and leave Surrey at 15-3 from eight. Shades of the previous fixture at Mundford where the visitors were 24-4 but went on to win however Norfolk were in the ascendancy. For a short while Maynard and Symes steadied the ship and whilst not scoring heavily, they saw off the threat of both Gale and Saunders. Gale 7-1-17, Saunders 6-3 2 -5 outstanding bowling by any stretch. Could the replacement bowlers continue the good work, Yallop and Dewson on, both bowling conservatively . Maynard was batting sensibly, picking up the singles of the good balls and punishing the very very odd bad ball. Dewson changed to around the wicket, Maynard gets a leading edge and Cooke takes the catch. 37-4 with 19 gone. It’s now anybodies game, Who will hold their nerve. At drinks its 50-4. Nobby receives loads of advice from the other nine captains on the pitch, ignores it and then does what he wants. A double bowling change. Carman for Yallop and James for Dewson. Carman bowls just as tightly as his predecesors however James only gets the one over before being replaced by Gale. Two more overs from the opener and just 1 run conceded, 9 -1-1-19. Dewson back as the game swings back slightly in Surrey’s favour 70-4 from 32. Armitage, who came in at the fall of Maynards wicket was a danger whilst Symes was prepared to just hang around. Armitage survived a pretty good lbw shout and then appeared to pull a hamstring. This prompted the Surrey skipper to enter the field only to be informed that it was an umpires decision as to whether or not a runner could be used. Some of the more cynical players may have thought that the skipper had come on to the field with instructions for the players. This may have been the case because there was a complete change in Symes. Twice he nearly got run out before Dewson dragged him down the pitch to give Cobb the easiest of stumpings. 70-5. Brewster in and twenty more runs added to the total before he was run out taking a second run and the direct hit from Carman left him well short of safety. Mel was the next batsman in. a bundle of energy as well as capable of hitting big on the leg side. 12 more runs added before yet another run out, Pearse with a spot on throw from the deep and Carman completed the deed. Armitage departed 24 from 78 and the score on 102-7 from 41. 4 Overs left, Saunders to bowl overs 42 and 44 whils Yallop drew the short straw, being called up up to bowl 43 and if required 45.Saunders duly obliged by trapping Early in front, Yallop went for 5. Four more from Saunders last over and the score 115-8 as Yallop prepared to bowl the final over to Wickens. A swing and a miss, next ball strikes Wickens on the pad, next ball passes down leg side just missing the stumps. Another swing and a miss then Bingo, a straight ball that takes middle stump. One ball left, last man in and two to win. A swing of the bat, ball squeesed out towards point and they scamper a single. Match tied.
The Norfolk Bowlers were superb to a man, Saunders 3-20, Dewson 2-16, Gale 1-18,Yallop 1-19 with Carman and James wicketless. Armitage 24.Maynard 20 and Symes 19 were Surry’s main run getters.
Its hard to understand why runs had been so hard to come by. The outfield was fast yet only 11 balls went to the boundary. There were no gremlins in the wicket, only the odd ball keeping low towards the end of the Surrey innings. Four run outs no doubt had a detrimental effect on the scoring of both sides.A great game to play in, a result that left Norfolk the happier of the two sides who would definitely have taken the tie at tea time
Norfolk 116-10 (42.2) Tied with Surrey 116-9 (45 )
G.M.Cobb
Norfolk Over 70's vrs Australia Over 70's at Cromer C.C.on Friday 15th July 2016
Friday 15th July 2016 Norfolk Over 70's vrs The touring Australian Over 70's at Cromer Cricket Club
A glorious summer’s day at Cromer Cricket Club on Friday 15th July 2016 saw Norfolk Over 70’s take on the Australian Over 70’s. Only two days earlier the tourists had suffered an 8 wicket defeat at the hands of England’s Over 70’s side in the first of three One Day Internationals.
The wicket was an absolute belter and the outfield cut short promised a run feast. Pleasantries exchanged and the Aussies went out for a serious warm up whilst Norfolk warmed up in the traditional way on the pre match nibbles and tea.
Nobby lost the toss and not surprisingly the Aussies chose to bat. A 45 over game with twelve players to bat but only 11 to field. Australia decided that they would retire their players at around the 40 run mark with the proviso that they could return later in the innings if enough wickets had fallen. With Martin Pearse playing for Norfolk there was absolutely no chance that the Norfolk batsmen would do the same. Both captains happy with the arrangements and the game started promptly at 1.00pm. Gale and Saunders opened the bowling for Norfolk and completed 4 overs each, in which time Ives and Tobin added 30 runs. Ives had given a hard chance to Smith at cover point off the third ball he received but it went down and both Ives and Tobin went on to score 42 runs each before retiring. Powell and Carman had replaced Gale and Saunders and these two also ended their 5 over spell wicket less as the score reached 76-0 after 18 overs. Another double bowling change saw both Dewson and James enter the attack only for both Stumbles and Cambell to savage them with 47 runs from six overs. Drinks at 24 overs and the Aussies on 124-0 and Stumbles the third Australian to retire after scoring 40 from 36 balls. The track was so flat that it looked as though all the Australians would reach their self imposed retirement total. Campbell duly retired having scored 38 from 36, both James and Dewson out of the attack and at long last the first wicket for the fielding side.Carman back into the attack and two wickets in two balls with the score on 196, Wundersitze clean bowled for 5 then Ziehlike caught by Dewson at square leg for a duck. Off the first ball of the next over Dewson took a stunning catch to dismiss Fryer off the bowling of Powell. 34 overs had been bowled and the Australians now stood at 196-3 with three wickets falling in three balls. Aussie captain Ross Chapman added 11 runs (10) before being stumped by Cobb off the bowling of Gale and the same bowler took his second wicket when Kasputtis top edged the ball and the keeper managed to make ground and get under the ball to take the catch. 196-0 was now 247-5 and a good recovery by Norfolk. No further wickets fell and the innings closed on 264-5 after 45 overs.
A splendid tea provided by the tea ladies of Cromer cricket club for the whole of the touring party and their ladies as well as the sponsors and the Norfolk side.
Pears and Cobb opened for Norfolk and looked at ease on this excellent batting surface. Runs were being scored at just below the 5 runs per over required and the target looked to be within reach especially as the Norfolk batsmen were not going to retire. However, in cricket nothing is certain and when Pearse was lbw to Fryer for 32 (36) with 64 on the board the warning signs were there. Just 1 run later Cobb was unfortunately run out by the incoming batsman Smith for 20 (33).Dewson joined Smith and this pair took the score along to 121 before Smith was caught by Campbell off the bowling of Pooley for 31 in the 28th over. Dewson had hardly had time to pass on any information to incoming batsman D.Gale Who managed just 3 balls before departing for a duck after being clean bowled by Webster. Gerald Cooke put bat to ball and assisted Dewson who reached his half century and they added 65 runs before Cooke was bowled by Campbell for 20 of just 25 deliveries. 187-5 in the 39th over. 6 overs left to score 78 runs, an unrealistic challenge. Saunders came and went scoring just a single and M.Barnham added 11 in 12 balls to finish not out along with Dewson who was on 81 when the overs were completed.
Norfolk finishing 36 runs short of the Australian total. Chapman with 2-20 was the pick of the Aussie attack whilst D.Dewson was the undisputed top Norfolk batsman.
After the game, everyone dined on fish and chips from the local chip shop. The guy was superb as he turned customers away whilst he produced the massive order of 60 fish and chip suppers. A short drive back to the ground and 60 people were extremely pleased with the meal. The Aussies also took most of the raffle prizes on the night to make it a very good day for them all round.
Nobby thanked Cromer C.C and Chairman Alan Warnes for their hospitality and expressed his thanks to the tea ladies, barman and last but not least groundsman Darren Payne for the magnificent playing surface. He also said a special thanks to both Hatch Brenner and Castaways Chalet Park for their sponsorship on the day
He also presented tour manager Joel McGlynn with a Norfolk Seniors cap and Ken Campbell with a Norfolk Seniors Shirt for being the umpire’s choice of Australian Man of the Match.
Ross Chapman replied for the Australians however his first act was to present David Gale with Norfolk’s own ‘Daffy Duck’ after his scoreless innings today, The Australians awarded the Norfolk Man of the Match award to Dereck Dewson and presented him with an Australian Seniors tie. He also presented Nobby with a tie along with some gifts for the tea ladies and a plaque to Cromer Chairman Alan Warnes for their excellent hospitality.
The evening concluded with D.Gale producing a cake that he had made especially for the occasion which was duly shared out to all those still present.
Finally, our two Barmy Army representatives Willy and Paul were presented with a cartoon drawn by D.Gale in appreciation of their continued support for the Over 70’s.
As our guests boarded the coach to return to their hotel, many hands were shook and we were left to reflect on what a super advert for senior cricket this fixture had been
Australia 264-5 (45 overs) defeated Norfolk 228-6 (45 overs) by 36 runs
G.M.Cobb
A glorious summer’s day at Cromer Cricket Club on Friday 15th July 2016 saw Norfolk Over 70’s take on the Australian Over 70’s. Only two days earlier the tourists had suffered an 8 wicket defeat at the hands of England’s Over 70’s side in the first of three One Day Internationals.
The wicket was an absolute belter and the outfield cut short promised a run feast. Pleasantries exchanged and the Aussies went out for a serious warm up whilst Norfolk warmed up in the traditional way on the pre match nibbles and tea.
Nobby lost the toss and not surprisingly the Aussies chose to bat. A 45 over game with twelve players to bat but only 11 to field. Australia decided that they would retire their players at around the 40 run mark with the proviso that they could return later in the innings if enough wickets had fallen. With Martin Pearse playing for Norfolk there was absolutely no chance that the Norfolk batsmen would do the same. Both captains happy with the arrangements and the game started promptly at 1.00pm. Gale and Saunders opened the bowling for Norfolk and completed 4 overs each, in which time Ives and Tobin added 30 runs. Ives had given a hard chance to Smith at cover point off the third ball he received but it went down and both Ives and Tobin went on to score 42 runs each before retiring. Powell and Carman had replaced Gale and Saunders and these two also ended their 5 over spell wicket less as the score reached 76-0 after 18 overs. Another double bowling change saw both Dewson and James enter the attack only for both Stumbles and Cambell to savage them with 47 runs from six overs. Drinks at 24 overs and the Aussies on 124-0 and Stumbles the third Australian to retire after scoring 40 from 36 balls. The track was so flat that it looked as though all the Australians would reach their self imposed retirement total. Campbell duly retired having scored 38 from 36, both James and Dewson out of the attack and at long last the first wicket for the fielding side.Carman back into the attack and two wickets in two balls with the score on 196, Wundersitze clean bowled for 5 then Ziehlike caught by Dewson at square leg for a duck. Off the first ball of the next over Dewson took a stunning catch to dismiss Fryer off the bowling of Powell. 34 overs had been bowled and the Australians now stood at 196-3 with three wickets falling in three balls. Aussie captain Ross Chapman added 11 runs (10) before being stumped by Cobb off the bowling of Gale and the same bowler took his second wicket when Kasputtis top edged the ball and the keeper managed to make ground and get under the ball to take the catch. 196-0 was now 247-5 and a good recovery by Norfolk. No further wickets fell and the innings closed on 264-5 after 45 overs.
A splendid tea provided by the tea ladies of Cromer cricket club for the whole of the touring party and their ladies as well as the sponsors and the Norfolk side.
Pears and Cobb opened for Norfolk and looked at ease on this excellent batting surface. Runs were being scored at just below the 5 runs per over required and the target looked to be within reach especially as the Norfolk batsmen were not going to retire. However, in cricket nothing is certain and when Pearse was lbw to Fryer for 32 (36) with 64 on the board the warning signs were there. Just 1 run later Cobb was unfortunately run out by the incoming batsman Smith for 20 (33).Dewson joined Smith and this pair took the score along to 121 before Smith was caught by Campbell off the bowling of Pooley for 31 in the 28th over. Dewson had hardly had time to pass on any information to incoming batsman D.Gale Who managed just 3 balls before departing for a duck after being clean bowled by Webster. Gerald Cooke put bat to ball and assisted Dewson who reached his half century and they added 65 runs before Cooke was bowled by Campbell for 20 of just 25 deliveries. 187-5 in the 39th over. 6 overs left to score 78 runs, an unrealistic challenge. Saunders came and went scoring just a single and M.Barnham added 11 in 12 balls to finish not out along with Dewson who was on 81 when the overs were completed.
Norfolk finishing 36 runs short of the Australian total. Chapman with 2-20 was the pick of the Aussie attack whilst D.Dewson was the undisputed top Norfolk batsman.
After the game, everyone dined on fish and chips from the local chip shop. The guy was superb as he turned customers away whilst he produced the massive order of 60 fish and chip suppers. A short drive back to the ground and 60 people were extremely pleased with the meal. The Aussies also took most of the raffle prizes on the night to make it a very good day for them all round.
Nobby thanked Cromer C.C and Chairman Alan Warnes for their hospitality and expressed his thanks to the tea ladies, barman and last but not least groundsman Darren Payne for the magnificent playing surface. He also said a special thanks to both Hatch Brenner and Castaways Chalet Park for their sponsorship on the day
He also presented tour manager Joel McGlynn with a Norfolk Seniors cap and Ken Campbell with a Norfolk Seniors Shirt for being the umpire’s choice of Australian Man of the Match.
Ross Chapman replied for the Australians however his first act was to present David Gale with Norfolk’s own ‘Daffy Duck’ after his scoreless innings today, The Australians awarded the Norfolk Man of the Match award to Dereck Dewson and presented him with an Australian Seniors tie. He also presented Nobby with a tie along with some gifts for the tea ladies and a plaque to Cromer Chairman Alan Warnes for their excellent hospitality.
The evening concluded with D.Gale producing a cake that he had made especially for the occasion which was duly shared out to all those still present.
Finally, our two Barmy Army representatives Willy and Paul were presented with a cartoon drawn by D.Gale in appreciation of their continued support for the Over 70’s.
As our guests boarded the coach to return to their hotel, many hands were shook and we were left to reflect on what a super advert for senior cricket this fixture had been
Australia 264-5 (45 overs) defeated Norfolk 228-6 (45 overs) by 36 runs
G.M.Cobb
Monday 18th July: Norfolk Over 70's vrs Kent Over 70's at Oversterand
Overstrand became the venue for the Over 70’s league match against Kent on Monday 18th July 2016. A beautiful, hot and slightly humid day, just perfect for cricket. The wicket looked good however the outfield was a tad on the long side and the boundary rope had been brought in with due consideration to the ages of the competing teams. The Kent players had had a long trip up from Kent so it was no surprise that Nobby, on winning the toss, asked them to spend another couple of hours out in the hot sun whilst the Norfolk lads could rest up in the shade.
Once again M.Pearse and N.Cobb opened the batting and both of them struggled to get the pace of the pitch against some very well disciplined bowling from both P.Humphrey and N.Underdown. M.P took 17 deliveries to get off the mar and the first 8 overs brought just 13 runs. Neither batsman looked in any real trouble however timing the ball was difficult with the wicket playing much slower than had been originally thought. Kent suffered an early set back when Peeryman appeared to pull a hamstring, who then left the field for treatment before returning shortly prior to the drinks break. However after 15 overs and by the first drinks break the score had moved on to a more respectable 45 with M.P hitting M.Back for a towering 6. N.Cobb was going along nicely and by the 23 rd over the score had progressed along to 88. Cobb was bowled by Hill (41 from 67) as he drove a ball onto his boot and it cannoned back onto his stumps. D.Dewson came in at number 3 and along with M.Pearse they took the sore to 139 by the second drinks break at the thirty over point. Pearse duly reached hi half century and looked certain to reach three figures until he top edged Back and the catch was taken by Packman. Pearse out for 75 from 103 and the score on 155-2 in the 24th over. James in at 4, promoted up the order with instructions to ‘throw the bat’. Dewson bowled in the 36th over with a ball that kept extremely low for 34 from 67 whilst James was enjoying his freedom to score 32 not out from just 30 balls. Cooke unlucky to get a straight delivery from Underdown and departed for just 4 from 6 and the score on 180-4 with 8 overs remaining. Smith joined James but struggled to put bat on ball as both batsmen tried to get the team up to 225 ( a par score according to the locals) and the innings came to end in the 45th over with the score on a respectable 216-4.
Kent pushed up their star batsmen F.Packmam, fresh from the Over 60’s (yet another 69 year old to grace the ranks of the Over 70 Competition) up from 3 to open the innings with D.Kelly. Ian Botham has often said that you shouldn’t judge a wicket until both sides had batted on it and this proved his statement. The Kent batsmen struggled with the lack of pace and the tight bowling of both Gale and Saunders, scoring just 19 from their first 8 overs. Both opening bowlers out of the attack to be replaced by D.Dewson and D.James. James struck with the first ball of his first over, totally confusing. Packman in the flight and the ball somehow reached A.Broughton behind the stumps who managed to dive forward to complete the stumping. 22-1with 10 overs gone and Packman left to walk off shaking his head with just 12 runs from 33 balls received. Captain D.Birmingham, a prolific run scores against Norfolk in the past became the second batsman to be bamboozled both by the wicket and the bowling of James, casually presenting Dewson with a dolly at point. 4 to his name from 16 balls. 31-3 and 13 gone. Just before the drinks break, Dewson had Kelly caught by Saunders for just 7 from his 31 deliveries faced. Drinks at 15 and no change in the bowling as both James and Dewson were restricting the visitors to just 2/3 runs an over. 33 runs were added by Plowman and Underdown as they steadied the ship, with Underdown looking particularly dangerous. Plowman 6 from 27 was dragged down the wicket by Dewson and Broughton picked up his second victim, stumping Plowman from a leg side wide. Underdown had got to grips with the pace of the wicket and set about the bowling, hitting powerful straight drives past both the fielders on the fence at both long on and long off. Together with D.Rees, this pair added 63 precious runs before D.Powell trapped Rees in front for a plumb lbw decision. However he had scored 35 from his 73 balls faced and the partnership was just starting to give the home side captain a little cause for concern. 132-5 with 34 gone and a run rate of 7+ required now made Norfolk favorites. The unfortunate Perryman was next in along with his runner and as always this caused a wee bit of confusion for the fielding side. Another mini partnership with Underdown, who reached his half century, added 39 more runs to take the score to 171-6 but 41 overs had now been bowled. Perryman hampered by his hamstring injury just couldn’t turn and regain his ground from a Gale delivery and A.Broughton completed his third stumping of the afternoon and departed for 19 off just 29 balls. With the overs running out, Underdown had no choice but to go for big hits and this led to his downfall as he missed yet another slow low delivery from James and was stumped by Broughton for an excellent 63 from 58 balls. Gale bowled Hills for a couple off the 4th ball of the final over and Kent ended their innings 28 runs short of Norfolk.
A slow but steady start from Norfolk’s opening pair of Pearse and Cobb set the tone of the Norfolk innings which was capitalized on by Dewson and James. This gave the bowlers enough leeway and once again the unit put in an excellent performance. David James, so often so unpredictable, produced one of his better performances to finish with 3-40 whilst Dewson and Gale both took 2 wickets each. A special mention for Andy Broughton who had 4 stumpings on his debut for the Over 70’s side
Norfolk 216-4 (45 overs) defeated Kent 188-8 (45 overs) by 28 runs
G.M.Cobb
Overstrand became the venue for the Over 70’s league match against Kent on Monday 18th July 2016. A beautiful, hot and slightly humid day, just perfect for cricket. The wicket looked good however the outfield was a tad on the long side and the boundary rope had been brought in with due consideration to the ages of the competing teams. The Kent players had had a long trip up from Kent so it was no surprise that Nobby, on winning the toss, asked them to spend another couple of hours out in the hot sun whilst the Norfolk lads could rest up in the shade.
Once again M.Pearse and N.Cobb opened the batting and both of them struggled to get the pace of the pitch against some very well disciplined bowling from both P.Humphrey and N.Underdown. M.P took 17 deliveries to get off the mar and the first 8 overs brought just 13 runs. Neither batsman looked in any real trouble however timing the ball was difficult with the wicket playing much slower than had been originally thought. Kent suffered an early set back when Peeryman appeared to pull a hamstring, who then left the field for treatment before returning shortly prior to the drinks break. However after 15 overs and by the first drinks break the score had moved on to a more respectable 45 with M.P hitting M.Back for a towering 6. N.Cobb was going along nicely and by the 23 rd over the score had progressed along to 88. Cobb was bowled by Hill (41 from 67) as he drove a ball onto his boot and it cannoned back onto his stumps. D.Dewson came in at number 3 and along with M.Pearse they took the sore to 139 by the second drinks break at the thirty over point. Pearse duly reached hi half century and looked certain to reach three figures until he top edged Back and the catch was taken by Packman. Pearse out for 75 from 103 and the score on 155-2 in the 24th over. James in at 4, promoted up the order with instructions to ‘throw the bat’. Dewson bowled in the 36th over with a ball that kept extremely low for 34 from 67 whilst James was enjoying his freedom to score 32 not out from just 30 balls. Cooke unlucky to get a straight delivery from Underdown and departed for just 4 from 6 and the score on 180-4 with 8 overs remaining. Smith joined James but struggled to put bat on ball as both batsmen tried to get the team up to 225 ( a par score according to the locals) and the innings came to end in the 45th over with the score on a respectable 216-4.
Kent pushed up their star batsmen F.Packmam, fresh from the Over 60’s (yet another 69 year old to grace the ranks of the Over 70 Competition) up from 3 to open the innings with D.Kelly. Ian Botham has often said that you shouldn’t judge a wicket until both sides had batted on it and this proved his statement. The Kent batsmen struggled with the lack of pace and the tight bowling of both Gale and Saunders, scoring just 19 from their first 8 overs. Both opening bowlers out of the attack to be replaced by D.Dewson and D.James. James struck with the first ball of his first over, totally confusing. Packman in the flight and the ball somehow reached A.Broughton behind the stumps who managed to dive forward to complete the stumping. 22-1with 10 overs gone and Packman left to walk off shaking his head with just 12 runs from 33 balls received. Captain D.Birmingham, a prolific run scores against Norfolk in the past became the second batsman to be bamboozled both by the wicket and the bowling of James, casually presenting Dewson with a dolly at point. 4 to his name from 16 balls. 31-3 and 13 gone. Just before the drinks break, Dewson had Kelly caught by Saunders for just 7 from his 31 deliveries faced. Drinks at 15 and no change in the bowling as both James and Dewson were restricting the visitors to just 2/3 runs an over. 33 runs were added by Plowman and Underdown as they steadied the ship, with Underdown looking particularly dangerous. Plowman 6 from 27 was dragged down the wicket by Dewson and Broughton picked up his second victim, stumping Plowman from a leg side wide. Underdown had got to grips with the pace of the wicket and set about the bowling, hitting powerful straight drives past both the fielders on the fence at both long on and long off. Together with D.Rees, this pair added 63 precious runs before D.Powell trapped Rees in front for a plumb lbw decision. However he had scored 35 from his 73 balls faced and the partnership was just starting to give the home side captain a little cause for concern. 132-5 with 34 gone and a run rate of 7+ required now made Norfolk favorites. The unfortunate Perryman was next in along with his runner and as always this caused a wee bit of confusion for the fielding side. Another mini partnership with Underdown, who reached his half century, added 39 more runs to take the score to 171-6 but 41 overs had now been bowled. Perryman hampered by his hamstring injury just couldn’t turn and regain his ground from a Gale delivery and A.Broughton completed his third stumping of the afternoon and departed for 19 off just 29 balls. With the overs running out, Underdown had no choice but to go for big hits and this led to his downfall as he missed yet another slow low delivery from James and was stumped by Broughton for an excellent 63 from 58 balls. Gale bowled Hills for a couple off the 4th ball of the final over and Kent ended their innings 28 runs short of Norfolk.
A slow but steady start from Norfolk’s opening pair of Pearse and Cobb set the tone of the Norfolk innings which was capitalized on by Dewson and James. This gave the bowlers enough leeway and once again the unit put in an excellent performance. David James, so often so unpredictable, produced one of his better performances to finish with 3-40 whilst Dewson and Gale both took 2 wickets each. A special mention for Andy Broughton who had 4 stumpings on his debut for the Over 70’s side
Norfolk 216-4 (45 overs) defeated Kent 188-8 (45 overs) by 28 runs
G.M.Cobb
Thursday 21st July: Essex Over 70’s vrs Norfolk Over 70’s at Loughton
Another scorching July day saw the Over 70’s make the trip down the A11 and M25 to the Essex village of Loughton. Loughton Cricket Club have a lovely ground and both the outfield and wicket promised to provide a good day’s cricket. Nobby called incorrectly and Essex decided to bat first.
John Stuck, fresh from the previous days England game at Radlett opened the innings with partner Dave Carter against the now, standard opening bowlers of Dave Gale and Geoff Saunders. Stuck as usual looked to score predominately on the leg side and the field was set accordingly. Unfortunately for once, Norfolk’s fielding was not up to its usual standard and with D.Gale struggling to get his line right both batsmen scored at will. The first 10 overs brought 41 runs and with the scoreboard playing up, the game kept being disrupted as both umpires made frequent trips to the scorers to sort out the score. With it being so hot, drinks were taken at the 15 over mark and Essex had reached 70 without loss. Neither batsman looked in any trouble. Stuck reached 50 then settled down again to punish the bowlers. Nobby used all of his five bowlers in an attempt to get the break through, bowling them in short spells as well as switching ends, all to no avail as Stuck cruised to yet another ton. More trips to the scorers by the umpires to sort out the scoreboard however by the second drinks break at 30 overs Essex had moved on to 141 without loss. Carman finished his spell, having been allowed to bowl 10 overs due to an error by both umpires and following the confusion, Norfolk took their first wicket in the 31st over when Gale bowled Carter for 43 with the score on 146. Stuck was still adding to his run collection however he lost his partner F.Watts just 17 runs later at 163 bowled by James and his replacement C.Botsey to the same bowler with the score on 169-3. M.Bottomley joined Stuck and this pair added 48 runs for the 4th wicket before Stuck holed out to M.Barnham for 130 off the bowling of Saunders with the score on 217-4 with 42 overs gone. Webster joined Bottomley only for the latter to be run out with one ball to go for 34 and the Essex total on 234-5. James 2-52, Gale 1-41 and Saunders 1-40 the wicket takers.
Normally so good, Norfolk’s bowling unit looked a tad weary, possibly after Mondays game, the long drive down and the hot and humid conditions that had to endure for 3 hours in the field. The problems with the scorers and the scoreboard resulting in the umpires having to leave the field at frequent intervals didn’t help the over rate. Some real sloppy fielding allowed Essex to reach a total that looked daunting at the break and there were some downcast Norfolk players who trudged off the field at tea time.
Martin Pearse and Nobby Cobb opened the innings for Norfolk and found both the wicket and the bowling to their liking. The first ten overs bringing 66 runs with both batsmen in their thirties. 87 for no wicket at the drinks break but the scoreboard not in sinq with the umpires and yet another lengthy discussion. Pearse reached fifty and shortly afterwards Cobb did the same. The 22nd over brought Essex their first wicket as Cobb (53) got a leading edge which provided the bowler Pratt with a simple return catch with Norfolk now on 124-1. Peter Cutmore (on debut) looked good and he and Pearse continued to score at will. Another scoreboard malfunction resulted in Pearse getting agitated as he had reached his 100 but the board only credited him with 93. With his mind now on the scoreboard, and his own individual score, he lost concentration and was bowled by Jenner. Dewson came in at 4 and he and Cutmore edged the score ever nearer to the target before Dewson dropped his bat whilst taking a run then inexplicably called Cutmore for a suicidal second. Cutmore out for 22. James in, James swings, James out, caught behind for a single. Suddenly from a position of cruising to victory the run rate had increased from 3 an over to almost 6. Dewson perished when bowled by Jenner for 18 and it was left to Mike Barnam and Gerald Cooke to steady the ship and with a few lusty blows as they reached the target with eight balls to spare. Barnham not out on 23 whilst Cooke was also undefeated on 6. A.Jenner 2-33 for Essex
In the end this was a very good win for Norfolk, chasing down 234 runs to win. Undoubtedly a good start was essential and the top order needed to step up to the plate. This they did. It’s possible that without the scoreboard problems Pearse could have carried his bat however the time to sort these problems out is after the game, not during it.
Essex 234-5 (45 overs)lost to Norfolk 235-5 (43-4 overs) by 5 wickets
Another scorching July day saw the Over 70’s make the trip down the A11 and M25 to the Essex village of Loughton. Loughton Cricket Club have a lovely ground and both the outfield and wicket promised to provide a good day’s cricket. Nobby called incorrectly and Essex decided to bat first.
John Stuck, fresh from the previous days England game at Radlett opened the innings with partner Dave Carter against the now, standard opening bowlers of Dave Gale and Geoff Saunders. Stuck as usual looked to score predominately on the leg side and the field was set accordingly. Unfortunately for once, Norfolk’s fielding was not up to its usual standard and with D.Gale struggling to get his line right both batsmen scored at will. The first 10 overs brought 41 runs and with the scoreboard playing up, the game kept being disrupted as both umpires made frequent trips to the scorers to sort out the score. With it being so hot, drinks were taken at the 15 over mark and Essex had reached 70 without loss. Neither batsman looked in any trouble. Stuck reached 50 then settled down again to punish the bowlers. Nobby used all of his five bowlers in an attempt to get the break through, bowling them in short spells as well as switching ends, all to no avail as Stuck cruised to yet another ton. More trips to the scorers by the umpires to sort out the scoreboard however by the second drinks break at 30 overs Essex had moved on to 141 without loss. Carman finished his spell, having been allowed to bowl 10 overs due to an error by both umpires and following the confusion, Norfolk took their first wicket in the 31st over when Gale bowled Carter for 43 with the score on 146. Stuck was still adding to his run collection however he lost his partner F.Watts just 17 runs later at 163 bowled by James and his replacement C.Botsey to the same bowler with the score on 169-3. M.Bottomley joined Stuck and this pair added 48 runs for the 4th wicket before Stuck holed out to M.Barnham for 130 off the bowling of Saunders with the score on 217-4 with 42 overs gone. Webster joined Bottomley only for the latter to be run out with one ball to go for 34 and the Essex total on 234-5. James 2-52, Gale 1-41 and Saunders 1-40 the wicket takers.
Normally so good, Norfolk’s bowling unit looked a tad weary, possibly after Mondays game, the long drive down and the hot and humid conditions that had to endure for 3 hours in the field. The problems with the scorers and the scoreboard resulting in the umpires having to leave the field at frequent intervals didn’t help the over rate. Some real sloppy fielding allowed Essex to reach a total that looked daunting at the break and there were some downcast Norfolk players who trudged off the field at tea time.
Martin Pearse and Nobby Cobb opened the innings for Norfolk and found both the wicket and the bowling to their liking. The first ten overs bringing 66 runs with both batsmen in their thirties. 87 for no wicket at the drinks break but the scoreboard not in sinq with the umpires and yet another lengthy discussion. Pearse reached fifty and shortly afterwards Cobb did the same. The 22nd over brought Essex their first wicket as Cobb (53) got a leading edge which provided the bowler Pratt with a simple return catch with Norfolk now on 124-1. Peter Cutmore (on debut) looked good and he and Pearse continued to score at will. Another scoreboard malfunction resulted in Pearse getting agitated as he had reached his 100 but the board only credited him with 93. With his mind now on the scoreboard, and his own individual score, he lost concentration and was bowled by Jenner. Dewson came in at 4 and he and Cutmore edged the score ever nearer to the target before Dewson dropped his bat whilst taking a run then inexplicably called Cutmore for a suicidal second. Cutmore out for 22. James in, James swings, James out, caught behind for a single. Suddenly from a position of cruising to victory the run rate had increased from 3 an over to almost 6. Dewson perished when bowled by Jenner for 18 and it was left to Mike Barnam and Gerald Cooke to steady the ship and with a few lusty blows as they reached the target with eight balls to spare. Barnham not out on 23 whilst Cooke was also undefeated on 6. A.Jenner 2-33 for Essex
In the end this was a very good win for Norfolk, chasing down 234 runs to win. Undoubtedly a good start was essential and the top order needed to step up to the plate. This they did. It’s possible that without the scoreboard problems Pearse could have carried his bat however the time to sort these problems out is after the game, not during it.
Essex 234-5 (45 overs)lost to Norfolk 235-5 (43-4 overs) by 5 wickets
Monday 25th July: Norfolk Over 70’s vrs Essex Over 70’s at Sprowston
A warm and humid day saw Norfolk host the return fixture against Essex at Sprowston just four days after their victorious trip to Essex. David Gale was playing his 50th game for Norfolk and as well as being presented with his special 50’s cap by skipper Nobby Cobb, he was made captain for the day. No decision to make after the toss as Essex won and decided to bat on a good looking strip.
Eseex run machine John Stuck opened the batting with his skipper P. Marshal against the Norfolk attack of Gale and Saunders. Both bowlers were particularly miserly and restricted the visitors to just 22 runs from the first ten overs. Although neither batsman were particularly fluent, it was safe to say that they did not seem to be in anyway troubled by the bowling. A double change saw both Powel and Carman replace the openers and this saw an increase in the scoring rate. Powell bowled his nine overs straight through and finished with 0-40 whilst Carmans five overs cost 19 runs. With twenty overs gone, things were looking good for the home side as Essex had only 63 runs on the board. Carman came off and his replacement Dewson was dispatched to all parts of the ground, conceding 43 runs in just five overs. Stuck brought up his half century and was scoring at will whilst his partner was content to push the ball around for singles to give Stuck the strike. During the course of Powels final over, wicketkeeper Cobb standing up to the wicket was hit in the throat as Stuck deflected the ball up with his glove. After a short break the game continued but Cobb was looking the worse for the knock. As the score increased and with both batsmen set, Gale brought on Smith for an over of spin along with James. This experiment proved costly as 43 runs were added in just four overs including Marshall reaching a well earned half century. 34 overs gone and Essex were cruising at 170 without loss and Stuck closing in on his second century against Norfolk in a week. Carman back into the attack along with Gale and at last a break through when Carman induced Marshall to play across the line and he was clean bowled for 66. This was to be Norfolks only success. Stuck went on to an unbeaten 134 and his partner D.Carter helped himself to 37 of just 34 balls received. A rather dejected Norfolk side left the field with Essex completing their 45 overs on 259-1
A tall order for the home side, however with a good start on a wicket that held no demons, Norfolk were confident that the task was not beyond them. Alas for Norfolk,N.Cobb looked out of sorts following his blow to the throat and departed for just 3, clean bowled by K.Pratt with the score on 15. M.P. Was batting in his usual confident manner and when joined by D.Dewson the score moved on quickly and after 20 overs were ahead of the Essex rate at this stage. In fact both batsmen were batting so well that the score had reached 149 in the 29th over, and each had a half century to his name. Surprisingly Essex had held there premier bowler back but in his second over he had Dewson stumped for 58 and Norfolk were now 149-2. G.Cooke was sent in at number 4 however with just one more run being added he holed out to square leg for a duck and the nerves started to jangle. Pearse was in fine form, he to approaching his second ton in a week and was receiving good support from M.Smith. this pair took the score past 200 before Smith was caught of the bowling of Jenner for 24. Four wickets down in the 41st over with the score on 219 and now 41 needed for victory from four and a bit overs. James joined Pearse however with just ten more runs added, Pearse perished trying to force the rate and was bowled by Pratt for 133 of just 125 balls. With Pearse’s departure, the odds on a Norfolk win were lengthened and whilst James and Barnham tried their best, Essex won the match by the narrow margin of 14 runs.
Essex 234-5 (45 Overs) defeated Norfolk 220-5 (45 Overs) by 14 runs
Monday 25th July: Norfolk Over 70’s vrs Essex Over 70’s at Sprowston
A warm and humid day saw Norfolk host the return fixture against Essex at Sprowston just four days after their victorious trip to Essex. David Gale was playing his 50th game for Norfolk and as well as being presented with his special 50’s cap by skipper Nobby Cobb, he was made captain for the day. No decision to make after the toss as Essex won and decided to bat on a good looking strip.
Eseex run machine John Stuck opened the batting with his skipper P. Marshal against the Norfolk attack of Gale and Saunders. Both bowlers were particularly miserly and restricted the visitors to just 22 runs from the first ten overs. Although neither batsman were particularly fluent, it was safe to say that they did not seem to be in anyway troubled by the bowling. A double change saw both Powel and Carman replace the openers and this saw an increase in the scoring rate. Powell bowled his nine overs straight through and finished with 0-40 whilst Carmans five overs cost 19 runs. With twenty overs gone, things were looking good for the home side as Essex had only 63 runs on the board. Carman came off and his replacement Dewson was dispatched to all parts of the ground, conceding 43 runs in just five overs. Stuck brought up his half century and was scoring at will whilst his partner was content to push the ball around for singles to give Stuck the strike. During the course of Powels final over, wicketkeeper Cobb standing up to the wicket was hit in the throat as Stuck deflected the ball up with his glove. After a short break the game continued but Cobb was looking the worse for the knock. As the score increased and with both batsmen set, Gale brought on Smith for an over of spin along with James. This experiment proved costly as 43 runs were added in just four overs including Marshall reaching a well earned half century. 34 overs gone and Essex were cruising at 170 without loss and Stuck closing in on his second century against Norfolk in a week. Carman back into the attack along with Gale and at last a break through when Carman induced Marshall to play across the line and he was clean bowled for 66. This was to be Norfolks only success. Stuck went on to an unbeaten 134 and his partner D.Carter helped himself to 37 of just 34 balls received. A rather dejected Norfolk side left the field with Essex completing their 45 overs on 259-1
A tall order for the home side, however with a good start on a wicket that held no demons, Norfolk were confident that the task was not beyond them. Alas for Norfolk,N.Cobb looked out of sorts following his blow to the throat and departed for just 3, clean bowled by K.Pratt with the score on 15. M.P. Was batting in his usual confident manner and when joined by D.Dewson the score moved on quickly and after 20 overs were ahead of the Essex rate at this stage. In fact both batsmen were batting so well that the score had reached 149 in the 29th over, and each had a half century to his name. Surprisingly Essex had held there premier bowler back but in his second over he had Dewson stumped for 58 and Norfolk were now 149-2. G.Cooke was sent in at number 4 however with just one more run being added he holed out to square leg for a duck and the nerves started to jangle. Pearse was in fine form, he to approaching his second ton in a week and was receiving good support from M.Smith. this pair took the score past 200 before Smith was caught of the bowling of Jenner for 24. Four wickets down in the 41st over with the score on 219 and now 41 needed for victory from four and a bit overs. James joined Pearse however with just ten more runs added, Pearse perished trying to force the rate and was bowled by Pratt for 133 of just 125 balls. With Pearse’s departure, the odds on a Norfolk win were lengthened and whilst James and Barnham tried their best, Essex won the match by the narrow margin of 14 runs.
Essex 234-5 (45 Overs) defeated Norfolk 220-5 (45 Overs) by 14 runs
Thursday 28th July 2016 Suffolk Over 70's vrs Norfolk Over 70's at Long Melford
After all the good weather of the previous week, rain returned to cause yet another match to be re arranged.
Chris Watson won the toss and decided to bat first, a decision that Norfolk might just be in their favour should the game be reduced as a result of the poor forecast.
Surprisingly, Norfolk skipper N.Cobb opened with both Ray Carman and David James instead of his normal opening pair of D.Gale and G.Saunders. Andrews and Penny were the Suffolk opening pair and made a slow but steady start, scoring just 33 from the first eight overs. Dewson replaced James who had conceeded just 13 from his 4 overs, however both batsmen had now settled in and started to up the tempo. Penny in particular was into his stride and punished both Dewson and Powel as he raced to a half century. Powel struck in the eighteenth over when Dewson held a fine catch from Andrews and the batsmen departed with the score on 84 of which Andrews had scored 28. Messent in at number three but for a short stay as Powell struck just 11 runs later and he went for just 5. It was starting to get darker and the threat of rain was imminent however Penny was making light work of the bowling, being particularly hard on Gale. As Saunders started his first over, the 28th of the innings, the rain came and four balls later the players left the field in some haste to the soinds of thunder and heavy rain. Suffolk were on 122 -2 with Penny 75 not out and skipper C.Watson 16 not out.
Match Abandoned
Sussex 70s vs. Norfolk 70s. at Three Bridges Thursday 11th August.2016
In a tough but enjoyable game in Sussex yesterday Norfolk lost by 35 runs.
Putting Sussex into bat the Norfolk bowlers were soon to realise how good a batting side the home county had. 181 before the first wicket fell left the Norfolk lads floundering somewhat in the field but once the opening stand was broken all hopes were to keep the score down to give Norfolk a reasonable chance . Derek Dewson was eventually brought on to bowl and immediately began cutting into the home batting finishing with figures of 6-0-5-25 in the Sussex 259 7 total.
Martin Pearse once again held the Norfolk innings together with an unbeaten 115, only Ian Partkin and Geoff Saunders contributed to the final score of 224-8. On reflection a little more alertness in the field would have perhaps kept the score down to a attainable target.
Well done lads a great effort by all.
Sussex 259-7 (45 overs) beat Norfolk 224-8 (45 overs by 35 runs
D.Gale
Sussex 70s vs. Norfolk 70s. at Three Bridges Thursday 11th August.2016
In a tough but enjoyable game in Sussex yesterday Norfolk lost by 35 runs.
Putting Sussex into bat the Norfolk bowlers were soon to realise how good a batting side the home county had. 181 before the first wicket fell left the Norfolk lads floundering somewhat in the field but once the opening stand was broken all hopes were to keep the score down to give Norfolk a reasonable chance . Derek Dewson was eventually brought on to bowl and immediately began cutting into the home batting finishing with figures of 6-0-5-25 in the Sussex 259 7 total.
Martin Pearse once again held the Norfolk innings together with an unbeaten 115, only Ian Partkin and Geoff Saunders contributed to the final score of 224-8. On reflection a little more alertness in the field would have perhaps kept the score down to a attainable target.
Well done lads a great effort by all.
Sussex 259-7 (45 overs) beat Norfolk 224-8 (45 overs by 35 runs
D.Gale
Suffolk 70s vs. Norfolk 70s at Felixstowe on Thursday 25th August.2016
A lovely warm and sunny day for the final Championship game of the season. Nothing at stake for either side other than the bragging rights as Pride of Anglia. Felixstowe C.C hosted the game and provided a superb batting strip however the outfield was a little on the long side. Both captains purred at the sight of the track. It was flat and firm and had been used previously at the weekend and 700 plus runs had been scored on it. Nobby won the toss and without any hesitation decided to bat.
Martin Pearse and Nobby Cobb opened the innings for Norfolk and made a cautious start against the Suffolk opening bowlers, Tomkins and Abbott. 36 runs from the first ten overs as the bowlers received no help whatsoever from the track and there was no swing to trouble the batsmen. By the 20th over the score had progressed to 80 without loss and both batsmen were well set. Chris Watson. The Suffolk skipper rotated his bowlers but he clearly missed the wily absent Bob Perrett as his attack just lacked any penetration. 103 in the 23rd over when Pearse reached his half century and by the 27th Cobb had reached his. Both batsmen were relishing the conditions as they punished anything off line. With the score on 161, Pearse survived an appeal for lbw. This was Pearse’s worst nightmare. Hit on the pad with his Nemesis Chris Palmer the umpire. The finger stayed down, the umpire thinking the batsman had hit the ball first. A close call however Pearse put this behind him as he raced towards yet another century. 194-0 in the 37th over when he reached three figures. Cobb was content to keep giving Pearse the strike whilst he accumulated his runs and Pearse duly obliged, going into overdrive once he reached his three figures. This eventually led to his demise, just when it looked as though both batsmen would carry their bat. With the score on 226 and 41 overs gone, Pearse holed out to Watson at deep long off, who took a splendid tumbling catch. A great innings with Pearse going for 133 from just 139 balls. 226-1 instantly became 226-2 as Dewson went for a duck, giving the bowler a simple return catch from his first ball. With no individual scores being shown on the scoreboard, Cobb was unaware of how close he was to three figures, content to give the strike to the more aggressive Saunders who duly obliged with 12 off 6 balls. He departed, stumped by Spall off the bowling of Clark in the 44th over. Cobb took a single off the second ball of the last over, James then played and missed the next two before hitting a four and a single from the last two balls of the innings. Innings closed on 261-3 after 45 overs with Cobb on 98 not out and James on 5.
It was a very happy Norfolk dressing room at the tea interval however the Norfolk bowlers were not looking forward to their stint after the break.
Not surprisingly, given the excellent batting track. Norfolk’s bowlers struggled against both Penny and Andrews as they added 40 in the first ten overs against Saunders and Carman. James replaced Saunders and his first five overs went for just 17 runs, however his next went for ten and he was pulled out of the attack. 94 without loss after 20 with Penny having reached his half century and the signs looked ominous especially as both batsmen had taken a liking to Dewson, Norfolk’s 4th bowler. Five overs from this bowler cost 27. Saunders recalled and in his second over he had Penny caught by Dewson with the score on 187 in the 32nd over. Penny departed having scored 109 from 118 balls however he survived earlier when Gale failed to hang on to the fierce return catch from this batsman, bruising his hand in the process. Saunders again in the wickets as he trapped Spall in front for just 4 and at 211-3 the game seemed to be swinging back in Norfolk’s favour. Ten overs to go and 51 runs needed for victory by Suffolk. Further success for Norfolk came in the38th over with the score on 223 when Carman bowled Messant for 5, leaving Suffolk needing a further 38 runs from 42 balls. It was at this point that the game swung violently towards Suffolk. The normally ultra reliable bowler C.Yallop was introduced into the attack however he bowled a ten ball over (4 wides) and conceded 18 runs which was totally uncharacteristic for him. Watson played a skippers innings and along with the busy D.Howe they managed to reduce the deficit to 2 runs by the start of the final over. Gale had the dubious honour, however his first ball was dispatched to the fence and Suffolk had the victory with five balls to spare. Watson finished on 30 and Howe on 14, both of them not out.
Saunders and Carman had bowled well returning figures of 2-47 from their 9 overs however the rest of the bowlers had toiled hard for little reward.
In truth, Norfolk lost a game that they had within their grasp. A team at this level should have been able to defend a total of 261. A fine opening partnership of 226 provided the platform and they posted a formidable total. Three bowlers were not at their very best and on this unforgiving wicket and they suffered accordingly. All the batsman who spent time at the crease would dearly have liked to roll up this strip and carry it away with them. A credit to the Felixstowe groundsman
Norfolk 261-3 (45 overs) lost to Suffolk 264-4 (45 overs) by 6 wickets
