Soggy Aussies

Keyworth 1st XI made their first appearance of the season at the Field of Dreams against Gedling & Sherwood (based in West Bridgford – why is that?).
Captain Rendu continued his fine time-keeping form from last week with a 12.30pm arrival for 1.30pm start – is this really a new dawn for our skipper? Jobs were taken up with gusto by the lads, particularly the moving of the new bottom-end sightscreen. However, catastrophe struck the bumbling first teamers, as a stray supporting pole slipped from its bolt, and tore a hole in the sail of HMS Collison. Captain Dale was away holding hands with his wife in the Lake District, but was called to be informed of the setback. However, repairs were made and the game commenced ten minutes early as both sides feared the impending weather.

With Chairman of Selectors Graham off in London touting his talents to Middlesex and Surrey, Aussie Grant Parker was promoted to open up with Ladd. The lanky opener was soon back in the hutch after a leaden-footed swish was snaffled in the gully. Bigfoot Tony Spence came and went soon afterwards. After smashing an imperious drive to mid off, Spence ran on the shot and was run out by a direct hit. Tindsley and Parker saw us home to the first rain interval, but with tea looking resplendent in the pavilion, Geoff threw his wicket to allow himself to focus fully Jean’s sarnies, cakes and onion bhajis.

With Tindsley’s dismissal, Keyworth enjoyed its first all Aussie partnership (Barry Baker to check this stat) as Dougie made his debut at No.5. The Convicts were setting an electrifying pace, and at 130-3 with 15 overs to go, the Millers were well set until the rain set in. Parker had been the anchor, hitting a magnificent 90*, inspired by the pre-match pep talk from his chauffeur Ladd, who compared his swordsmanship to Ricky Ponting. Despite pleas from the Aussies, the Club Statistician should be scrubbing their scores from the history books. Graham therefore leads the 6s competition having hit the only maximum of the season, and Dougie will be facing a KCC career first baller next week!

The players retired to Buzz where the stark reality of the demise of English cricket was emphasised. In the KCC 130-3, the English contingent were 25-3, and the Aussies were 105-0! Baker departed to his Masterchef performance of steak & chips, the Youth Policy and Parker put on their gladrags for a night in Wetherspoons in town, whilst Strong & Ladd chose West Bridgford. Imagine their surprise when Bar Divorcee was deserted - the W.B. High Street resembling a Wild West ghost town. Their “Film Set Night” continued when they walked in to the Star Wars Freaks Bar, formerly known as Fire & Ice. All sorts of weird and wonderful creatures were loitering at the bar, but the arrival of two celebrity look-a-likes was the highlight - Eddie Jordan arm in arm with Madge Bishop from Neighbours!

MOM : Jean’s Tea
TFC : Laddy

MOM Total : Ian Graham 1