Saturday saw Division Two leaders Bedale at SecuriCorp Park in the North Yorks & South Durham Premier Cricket League, reports John Brennan.
Light showers in a brisk wind meant already difficult conditions became even more difficult, and whoever won the toss would certainly have the advantage. Indeed, it was the visitors who called correctly and Shildon’s batsmen were soon in trouble.
With the score on only 5, Shildon had lost three wickets, but picked up to progress to 32 without further loss. Then another collapse sent the home side tumbling to 35 for 6. The innings struggled on into the 25th over when the Railwaymen were eventually all out for 74 (J Dinger 23, T Wickins 21 not out).
The rain held off and Bedale’s response was typically calculated, although they did not have it all their own way, as Ryan Nangle’s three early wickets saw Shildon briefly fighting back and Bedale on 23 for 3. However, the visitors cruised to 75 for 5 in the 14th over, but despite the heavy defeat, Shildon will be pleased to see the return after injury of veteran Phil Garbutt, who snaffled two wickets.
Shildon’s 2nd team remains in second place in Division C of the Darlington District Cricket League after King James surprisingly conceded the match, gifting the Railwaymen 20 points. The previous Thursday evening saw an odd mix of first, second and third team players lose at Aldborough St John, in the semi-final of the Fenwick Cup.
Shildon put their hosts into bat and the home side made 121 for 8 in the allotted 20 overs, Dan Richardson and Nathan Lawson each taking two wickets. Shildon’s abject batting display saw the side all out in 19 overs for a paltry 78 runs.
This Saturday, the 1st team visit Northallerton and the 2nd team host Barton, in the next round of league fixtures.
Overall, performances by the 1st team have been sloppy in recent matches, partly due to a lack of cricket. Let’s hope that they can reapply themselves and come up with a strong finish and not let the season just fizzle out.
Shildon & District's local community newspaper.
