10/01/2017
Sunday 8th January 2017: a day to forget. Hoping to bit upon a well-fought victory over Langa Towship the previous day, the team arrived in good spirits, hoping that captain Caspar could win his first toss of tour. Unfortunately, that was not to be the case and once again, a 50 over stint in the field ensued. With key seamer Cameron Russell unavailable due to illness, the onus was placed on Lord Seshton-Bell and Jacques Sharam to deliver the goods. Tough conditions and fatigue took their toll from ball one, and by drinks in the 17th over, the opposition had amassed an impressive vingt-et-un for 1. Following a tough start, Matt Watson and Henry Portman came on to bowl and bowled rather impressively, keeping it tight and reducing the run-rate somewhat. Particular plaudits are necessary for Mr Portman, who caught the eye of the visually impaired umpire. He was quoted stating that he could “go places if he gets rid of that dreadful haircut” and that he could be “absolutely quality.” Portman’s 3-fer changed the outlook of the game after a difficult start and the field backed him up ably.
Once Portman had bowled out, the runs began to flow once again from one end. Credit must be given to Tom Hales, picking up 4 wickets amongst the impending massacre. The batsmen were able but sloppiness cost the Seagullians overall, with the innings coming to a close with the hosts at (enter large number here). Dropped catches, “injured” fielders and poor line and lengths went a long way in explicating the sub-par performance.
The interval brought some welcome respite from the pummelling of the dross. The food was good and spirits were slightly raised before the 320 run chase began. The newly promoted Sachak and Badge opened up and looked steady for a couple of overs. Unfortunately, Badge got a snorter and this sparked the onslaught of St Andrean wickets. Jacques Sharam did offer some hope by lamping out some l***y blows (including a first ball 6).
The tourists finished on 90 – some would say they were comprehensively beaten. Things could only get better from here. Sempre Seagullium.