The first UWMCC Friendlies XI game of the season was a 40 over game against ITS LIB. UWMCC bowled first by agreement rather than a toss, and we eventually got underway despite Reynard not grasping the concept of turning up before the start time. Generally we fielded tidily with Jack in particular stopping anything and everything. Jayaram and Akash Mittal opened up, Jay in particular bowling very well and keeping things tight (6-0-17-1), keen to be known for his bowling rather than his bowels. Henry was brought on, determined to justify his inclusion in Rooty’s fantasy team and started with a double-wicket maiden, as part of an extraordinary spell of 6-2-40-4, combining some excellent bowling with some dross (36 of those runs coming from 3 overs). Kynners and Ed both bowled very nicely, with both going at under four an over and unlucky to be wicket-less. Akash kept things tight toward the end and got a run-out, while Kynners took a very good catch on the boundary off Aneesh, with ITS LIB finishing on a very respectable 212-7 from their 40 (with individual scores 48, 40, 34 and a 54 retired).
It was always going to be a tough chase, but Reynard tried to make it harder by running out Jack without facing. Fortunately ITS LIB admitted the keeper had dropped the ball and their honesty was much appreciated. Essentially lots of players got starts while Reynard (37), Aneesh (50 retired), and Jayaram (23) all entertaining with their stroke play. Apart from that, the chase was pretty non-eventful, and eventually we were bowled out for 172 with one ball remaining. All in all a good game played in the right spirit and we’re very grateful to ITS LIB for this. Now bring on the 4s!