With the start delayed due to the normal English summer weather, rain, it was always going to depend on who called correctly that would determine the outcome of this game. As luck would have it the Squirrels captain called correctly and promptly asked us to bat on a freshly cut damp track. With an opening pair of quicks and a receptive pitch they quickly made inroads into our batting. With 10 on the board first Ahktar went swiftly followed by myself. Whilst Gav put in a couple of lusty blows it was a bit of a procession as he, Alex, Sean, the Pope and Blakey came and went swiftly. So at 30 odd for 7 thoughts were turning to a very early finish. However two of our younger players decided to take the fight to the opposition. Young Ally Hughes and Nathan Pugh launched after the Squirrels attack and played without fear. They both hit some fabulous shots as they peppered the nearby houses. They took the score to over 100 and both looked set for big scores. However Ally feathered a catch to the keeper for a hard hitting 38 and soon after Nate having reached his first senior 50 perished for 52. An excellent innings from both lads that allowed us to post a score of 135 which at least made a game of it.

So to tea and at least a little hope on a damp but drying track. However even with Zee bowling well it soon became obvious that the track had settled down and the Squirrels openers played with a freedom on what was now a near perfect batting track. A couple of sharp chances were put down by us as the Squirrels openers attacked from the start. Zee managed to get a wicket courtesy of a catch by star batsman Nathan. However the Squirrels no 3 continued in the same attacking mould and they reached our total in a rapid 20 overs.

So a comprehensive win for Haslington 3rds who to be fair played the better cricket and used the conditions to their advantage. On the plus side Ally and Nate both sparkled at the crease and hopefully they can build on this performance. Next week another home game for the fourths with hopefully not too many hangovers from the Sportsman Dinner!