Bledlow Ridge 2nd XI beat Chearsley 2nd XI by 55 runs

Challenging cricketing conditions for our first pre-season friendly, with single figure temperatures and a stiff breeze, but enthusiasm undiminished in a very youthful side sporting four under 15s.

The match was recorded and streamed live on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9O76cuxpppk

Bledlow Ridge batted first following an agreed toss, and despite early breakthroughs, posted a target of 210. V. Connolly was the pick of the bowlers, showing renewed enthusiasm for the art, opening the bowling and picking up 4-22 off 8 overs, and unlucky not to pick up a five-for. P. Cherry made an encouraging debut behind the stumps with the gloves and F. Witcher showed promise in an 8 over spell. All the U15 bowlers gave a good account of themselves, particularly Joe Storey, making his senior debut, bowling a tidy spell of 6 overs for 24 runs.

In reply, our regular openers V. Connolly and P. Cherry started well, both looking in good nick before getting out when set, scoring 24 and 30 respectively. All the U15s had a bat and despite a few cameos, we fell short of the target, all out for 157. Few will forget D. Biggs impudent ramp against one of the Cherwell League's bowling stalwarts. Plenty of promise for the season ahead, for both the second and third teams.

[TM]