The heat is on

Surely it would happen this week? Winning the toss that is! But no, for a fifth successive week the toss was lost, by Bobby again, as IG was away watching Babar play rugby.

This allowed the visitors, Loughborough Carillion, to take full advantage of a featherbed at a scorching Field of Dreams.

The home side's chances of a first win were not helped from the off as yet again only 10 men were in the field after army recruit Fraser Stretton, given a chance to show his worth having been called up from the 2's, went AWOL (again) and failed to show. Also not available were Rocket Rendu and Dougie Bayford.

Keyworth's opening bowler Andy Wilcox, who is so laid back he makes Chris Gayle look athletic, had a torrid 2 over spell down the hill, seeing 26 come off them before he was replaced by the improving Dave Hiller, who is gaining in confidence with every match. At the other end, his brother Andy should have got an LBW first over as a low full toss hit the big No2 on the toe plumb in front. The umpire thought he had hit it at he tried to dig it out, but the batsman admitted the following over that he hadn't, leading to the umpire apologising to the incandescent bowler. The Loughborough opening pair went on to make 130 in 20 overs, giving only a couple of half-chances prior to the first breakthrough which was made by Dave Strong (2-58).

Young Ben Elliott put in another solid performance behind the stumps, taking one great catch by running around to gulley and diving full-length. His very own Father Ted had the UN checking their equipment for another underground nuclear test by North Korea following one diving stop that must have measured 4.1 on the Richter scale.

The visitors' top four made the Keyworth bowlers toil, each getting 50's (56, 68, 61, 73). Only Bobby Baker seemed to have their measure as he returned 4-86 from his 16 overs. Bobby would have got a deserved 'five-for' in his last over had non-cap wearer Andy Hiller not been bedazzled by the sun on the deep square leg boundary, pulling out at the last minute to protect his good looks. The runs continued to be piled on as the lack of an 11th man told, and a massive 326-8 was reached at tea.

At least the ex-youth policy of the Hiller sisters (helped by non playing vice captain Tinno) delivered on the food front, with curried chicken open sandwiches and fruit kebabs the highlights.

So it was up to the Millers to bat the overs, but unfortunately the top order, barring Marc Bailey (39) weren't up to the task and the writing was on the wall as Ted (1), Lee Potts (6) Dale (2) and Rob Baker (6 and out!) quickly came and went. It was only top all-rounder Dave Strong (42) and the stylish Ben Elliott (39), who shared a 64 run partneship, that looked like salvaging a draw for the hosts. But the ninth and final wicket fell in the 35th over with 140 on the board, leaving the firsts still winless so far this season.

Lost and Found

A deadly serious matter. Did anyone pick up Ernie's library book on Saturday?

Butch Chops Down Rudd

On the 25th anniversary of Forest's first European Cup win, the Stiffs went in search of their own overseas glory to, err..... Ruddington.

As usual Leggy had been up at 4 am nervously fretting about the big game, however for a change he was coming back in from a night on the tiles. Duncan Disorderly was in love somewhere so we were fortunate to rescue Chris Soar from the scorer's chair to make up the eleven.

This would be a good test as only a few seasons ago we were playing Rudd 2nd's, but now up against their 1sts. Standards had been raised since our last visit to Elm Park and put skipper Cowlard in a pre-match quandry........

Under a scorching sun Cowlard played a blinder at the toss, joking with the opposition captain that whoever won would obviously bat, only to insert the opposition for the 101st consecutive time.

The Millers' pitch experts had read the deck as a moss infested minefield with a surface less well bound than an apple crumble. It played like a road.

As seems to be the rule in Division K, the Rudd openers set off at 20/20 pace. The score rattled along at literally a six an over, as Leggy then Kitch disappeared for maximums into the playground and bowling green. At 48-0 off 10 overs it was not just the sun that was getting skipper Cowlard hot under the collar.

Finally Kitcho bowled full and straight to knock over the dangerous pinch hitter for a quick fire 34. Ernie had been trying to get JB into the bowling attack since May 2003 and finally got his wish. The Adonis had played at Rudd for nearly 40 years before his big money move to Keyworth and knew the surface like the back of his hand. He didn't disappoint with a wily spell of slow spin that had the Rudd batters groping.

Our catching throughout was fantastic, apart from one howler. A leading edge from the number 3 appeared to be going straight to either mid wicket, extra cover, or gently back over the bowler's head, depending on the excuse given by Drury, Dearden or Legge, the fielders more static than Easter Island statues, and bowler Legge reprising his The Price is Right hand flapping routine all too late as the ball almost landed on the stumps. The pressure built and the other opener finally ran out of patience and Mr Dearden took a smart overhead catch off The Boss.

Into his 10th over JB finally got a deserved wicket nipping one back round the no.4's legs. Drurs then made up for his earlier horlicks by taking a fine catch in the deep to see The Adonis finish with splendid figures of 2-27 off his 12. Phil then secured his second fielding point with an excellent run out.

The lower order had no answer to Kitcho's second spell as Cowlard took 2 catches and Ernie a blinder. Some late slogging took the score to 169-9 at the break, a fine effort. Kitch took 4-48, Cowlard 1-47 and Boss Hogg 1-41.

Tea was at best dreadful with sandwiches the thickness of tissue paper. Not a single highlight to report.

In reply this was the best bowling attack we'd faced for a couple of years, but Ernie found the short backward point boundary to his liking in a brief cameo before departing for 13 in the 3rd over.

There was a running commentary all afternoon from the Rudd fielders, more hyperactive than the studio audience for Britain's Got Talent. The next 10 overs were constantly described as "Test Match Cricket" as Drurs and Beakey did their best to see off the opening attack. Drurs was happy to leave anything wide from the left arm quickie, driving him to distraction. "Why don't you try to hit one?" asked the quick, "Bowl a half volley on off stump and I will" replied Drurs. The bowler obliged and the scoreboard began to tick over.

The 50 came up in the 15th over and the opening bowlers seen off. The sweet spot on Matt Prior's reject bat was growing by the over to the size of a rugby ball as Beakey smashed a series of straight drives. The fielders were watching another game though feeling Butch's shots were "wishy washy".

At 84-1 off 23 overs we were well on top. The 24th over effectively ended the contest. The Rudd first change had bowled ok but was put off by Drurs hitting one off the square, and suddenly got the yips. His next over was a marathon. After 17 balls with 10 wides and 2 no balls Dimps was in danger of taking off with all the hand signals. The bowler couldn't go on and his mate had to send down the final ball of the over from hell.

It was then plain sailing as we cracked the ball to all parts. Drurs brought up his 50 with his 8th boundary despite not having played a single good shot according to the fielding side. By now the silence was deafening and Beakey quickly followed suit. Both batters ended on 54 not out, with extras unbeaten on 52! A partnership of 154 that saw us home in the 33rd over.

Another clinical run chase, a fine all round team performance, played in a fine spirit with plenty of enjoyable banter! The only downside was a widespread outbreak of pad rash, no surprise given that we are 760 for 13 over the last month! Heady days.

Most were in need of a 2nd tea back at The Sal, with Boss Hogg now on week 5 of his Samit Patel crash diet.

Size Matters

A Bank Holiday friendly at Holme Pierrepont saw a great turn out swayed by a bar and barbeque. With half the squad on holiday a trio of Plums and hopefully KCC stars of the future, Palmer, Kingsley and Devenney faced a Gedling and Sherwood side looking for experience.

A pairs format ensured everyone would get some action, with a bonus 4 overs for the 2 batters with good application.

Normington and Devenney opened up amidst a flurry of early wickets. Devenney found the boundary twice and good running saw the pair depart after their 4 overs at 27 for 3.

The Plumtree connection of Palmer and Kingsley showed high technique. Kingsley’s late cut the pick of his 3 boundaries. Palmer was bowled by a straight one but proved resolute. 23 for 1

Coulthard and Stolworthy meant business and were exquisite between the wickets, pressurising the fielders and running sharply at every opportunity. Coulthard was dismissed once but continues to impress picking his shots. 20 for 1

Neece and Cairns looked to keep up the pressure on the quick singles, but Neece was caught out with a direct hit. Cairns whipped a delightful one off his toes for the pick of his 3 boundaries before being undone by one that nipped back. 21 for 3.

Mills and Brown found themselves back at the scene of their last ball triumph a month previous and faced the pick of the bowlers, with 3 wickets tumbling. Mills capitalized on the bowling machine practice with some excellent off side shots. 14 for 3.

Stolworthy and Coulthard were elected to pad back up and both hit a pair of boundaries but unfortunately both were bowled twice, but good practice nonetheless. 28-4.

An impressive 133 runs in the 24 overs but once again 15 wickets at -5 runs a piece really proving costly. 58 the total.

A couple of physically stronger under 13’s effectively ended proceedings after the second pairing, with the ball being dispatched frequently, expertly and competently to all parts, which was then continued, with morale low.

Taking an over each and rotating, Brown, Mills and Palmer all felt the wrath before Neece slowed events by pitching the ball up. 36 – 0

Kingsley showed what could be done when the ball was pitched up and removed middle stump. While the wicket machine, Stolworthy, produced a wicket maiden with Coulthard taking a smart catch in the covers. Cairns was proving an excellent cover behind the stumps as Devenney and Coulthard experienced some big hitting. 30 -2

The boundaries kept accumulating and although it was quiet heads never dropped. Palmer lifting spirits with a clean bowled as the third pair finished with 37 for 1.

Kingsley pouched a smart catch off the bowling of Neece which was followed in the next over with a caught and bowled from none other than Stolworthy. 38 for 2

Coulthard bowled a tidy second over, only a wide preventing a maiden as Normington got in the wickets. Brown, Palmer, Kingsley, Neece, Stolworthy and Normington all got the nod from Leggy for a 3rd over.

A maiden from Palmer was followed with a wicket for Normington with Stolworthy taking the catch. Kingsley finished impressively with a wicket maiden after a clean bowled. Leaving Stolworthy as the pick of the bowlers. A second wicket maiden finishing with figures of 3-2-2-3

360 runs for the loss of only 9 wickets meant a comprehensive victory for Gedling and Sherwood as Palmer and Kingsley shot off for the Durham innings at Trent Bridge.

A good practice with the emphasis on pitching the ball up and keeping the wickets down.

Monday 1st June – Wollaton (a)
Tuesday 2nd June – Radcliffe (h)

KCC Golf Day

The 2009 KCC Golf Day will take place on Friday 4th September at Stanton-on-the-Wolds Golf Club.

Usual format: teams of four, longest drives, nearest the pin, etc.

Cost will be about £40 which includes a meal afterwards.

For more details and to enter your team, Rob Baker is your man.

Legge's Eleven

Salad days on Sunday over at Colston Bassett as even a comprehensive defeat couldn't spoil a beautiful Summer day for Legge's Eleven.

Back LtoR: Adonis, Harrison.P, Sheriff, Dimps, Dearden, Soar
Front LtoR: Drury, Harrison.B, Hogg, Elliott.L, Disorderly.D

Our batting lacked a bit of experience as both young and old ran out of patience as we slumped to 25-6. Drurs made 39, and with a bit of help from old friend Extras, and fellow veterans Baldrey, Hallam and Beeton, we posted 78 all out, just in time for tea.

Tea time was boosted by news that Newcastle were one down.


To use the common football vernacular, there were plenty of 'positives' to take out of our bowling reply. Leggy bowled tightly and Mr Dearden took two wickets, steadily finding his radar. Billy bowled a promising spell of left arm seam and JB sent down his usual mix of flight and guile without luck.

The highlight though was the return of the Sheriff after over a year out through injury. Cowlard's decision to offer Dave a two year contract had been looking as wise as Mike Ashley's investment in the Geordies, but the Sheriff slotted straight back into an immaculate five over spell. Hopefully Dave isn't feeling too stiff this morning!!

We didn't get any more wickets, but a fun day out for all.

Where the Ellerslie's our first win?

With new skipper IG away, and vice captain Geoff Tindsley still crocked for at least another 4 weeks, it fell upon Bobby Baker to take up the reins on Saturday with Keyworth looking for their first win of the season.

The pre-match ritual was just like old times for Bobby, a shambles, with only 7 players at the ground at kick off time. Paul Lay was a late call off and Rocket Rendu was at the wrong end of the M1 having picked up a new motor from a dodgy dealer in Southampton, and then was stuck for over an hour on the M25 following an accident. Added to this, all rounder Dave Strong was under a threat of baby sitting duty from 3pm should Michelle be called into work...

The Ellerslie wicket was looking very green & mossy and was a bit damp on top... a good toss to win... but for the 4th time this season Keyworth batted first, so it's not just Iggy who can't call correctly. Opening bat Marc Bailey and Andy Wilcox turned up as Emma Dale and Strongy were striding out to the middle, just in time to see DC (5) fall in the third over after his first ball flew over his head from just short of a length.

Strongy was then out for a duck as a bit of "yes, no, wait...bugger" on a misfield saw him run out on a close call. Bailey (6) soon followed as the opening pace attack fully exploited the swinging conditions and lively track leaving KCC in all sorts of bother. Pub Landlord Stuart Meek loves the beautiful British game and fancied having a bat this week, so opted for the 1st team after sitting with his pads on all innings for the 2's match at Kimberley! He batted with housewives and scorers favourite Doug Bayford, and soon another suicidal run should have seen Meeky back in the pavilion. But there was a moment of controversy and poor sportsmanship as Ellerslie claimed a run out after the bails were taken off by the keeper without the ball in his hand. Fortunately the umpire saw the moment clearly without the need for the replay, and called him back.

But with Doug (4) and Stuart (17) soon departing, the writing seemed to be on the wall at 41-5 in 18 overs. Fortunately the innings was saved by a captain's knock with Rob batting for 90 mins for his 37. The tail wagged and he was ably supported by Rob Beake (28*) and, batting out of character, Dave Hiller (13*), who smashed an astonishing straight six that he thought he'd hit for a single!

The long haired buffoon eventually arrived at high speed, surprisingly in his whites, just in time to see the 8th wicket fall in the 40th over. The batting order had Barry looking through his notes to see if Rocket was the best No.11 the club has ever had. But despite his rush to get there, Steve didn't get a bat as the innings closed on 153-8, helped by 33 extras.

Strongy got the dreaded call to babysit over tea time, but fortunately Tuckers and Chris Soar were on hand to sub field. However, with the rules dictating that Rocket was unable to bowl until nearly 8pm, the visitors were effectively two bowlers down. So, as is the long term plan this season, it was up to the younger generation to step up to the plate. Andy Hiller (14-5-37-4) duly obliged with the very first ball, as the opener walked past one that seamed back. Emma Dale then snaffled the No3 at 3rd slip off Andy Wilcox after the skipper moved him in from gulley the ball before, leaving the home side shocked at 1-2 in the 4th over.

Patience was the key on a wicket that was drying in the baking conditions but still had enough in it to force an error. Specialist fielder Rendu took three great catches as the Millers slowly chipped away at the Ellerslie top order, leaving them at 82-6 in the 26th over.

Champagne moment of the day was a Harlem Globetrotters style slip catch off Baker by Emma Dale. The sharp chance fell to his left hand and bounced up to his wrist as he hit the floor, the ball rolled up his thigh and onto his belly and eventually nestling in his groin... not that he knew much about it!

Dong Bayford then took a great catch as the home side wobbled in their 3 an over run chase as Dave Hiller and Stuart Meek both took a victim. With Andy Hiller coming back on and the time nearing 8pm, Millers looked to have a slight advantage at 99-7, but Ellerslie's young No9 showed great composure and took the side within 20 runs of victory with a couple of big sixes and some clean hitting. Yet another two quick wickets saw the score go to 138-9 and Keyworth sniffed a victory that was so unlikely when they were 41-5.

But the No11 chanced his arm, with Rendu unlucky not to get the breakthrough with the 2 overs he bowled, and the winning runs came with a six with 3 overs remaining to the delight of the home side.

What was noticeable in the Keyworth side was the camaraderie and team spirit that typifies the club.

So it appears that the paying public are getting their monies worth out of Keyworth this season, and surely the first win is around the corner to get their season rolling.

Kitch Sinks Stapleford

Another well timed run chase gained the Stiffs an emphatic 19 point win over new opponents Stapleford.

The selection merry-go-round would have taxed the combined talents of Billy Smart and Gerry Cottle with personnel changes all the way through the morning. Ted kept his faith in youth replacing the injured Scooby with the young Adonis.

Cowlard took over the captaincy and found the toss was a complete mis-match, looking up at the 7 foot goliath leading the visitors. Happily we won the toss, and unhappily AC chose to bowl for the 100th consecutive occasion.

Dimps was all of a fluster having forgotten his umpire’s shirt, wristwatch, and sense of balance: still smarting from the blow to his knee the week before, and struggling to live down the fact that it was Drurs who had hit the ball!

The Stapleford innings was a stop-go affair, starting like the Timeless Test, followed by a 2020 slog. The first 10 overs went for only 18 runs, Cowlard and Leggy bowling tight lines, the skipper getting the first breakthrough caught behind, while Leggy was clearly benefiting from an extra hour’s kip after his pre-dawn pitch inspection.

Duncan had brought along the future Mrs Disorderly for her first experience of village cricket. Sadly Dunc spent the afternoon dreaming about his intended, managing to misfield the ball twice in one delivery: first allowing the ball between his legs, then somehow turning a drama into a crisis by tripping over his feet and kicking the ball over the boundary.

Stapleford’s man mountain came in at 3 and clearly dealt only in boundaries; mixing gentle defensives with vicious slogs, all of which rattled to the rope as Kitch and Leggy went for 5 quick 4’s.

Mr Dearden came on first change up the hill and helped us to turn the match. The Stapleford giant whacked a straight drive that was homing in on Phil’s crown jewels like a tomahawk missile. Somehow the ball lodged between Phil’s thighs and he joyfully clasped the catch, happy to have kept us in the game and his wedding tackle intact.

The middle order carried on with a shot a ball as if this was a 36 over match. Despite plenty of boundaries we kept chipping in with wickets. Kitcho followed a clean bowled with a carbon copy to bring up his 300th career wicket. And then revealed himself as the heir apparent to Barry’s archive, noting that the 2 wides in his spell were only the 4th and 5th in his 15 year career!

Fraser bowled a sharp spell taking 1-23 in 6 overs, and Leggy came back to get the first, and probably only, LBW decision from Dimps this season, finishing with a fine 2-27 from 11 overs. Kitcho returned to mop up the tail, arriving on a hat trick ball for the second week running, only to narrowly fail. Kitch ended with 4-33 and AC 2-52 as the visitors were all out for 165 in only the 40th over.

JB earned the fielding point with a series of diving stops at slip showing the benefit of a lifetime’s rucking and mauling.

Tea by Cowlard was a joy to behold. A high fruit content was in keeping with the hot weather, though jumbo pickled onions and chocolate marshmallows were the retro highlights.

In reply the track had dried out to a road and Evergreen Ern and Drurs were untroubled reaching 45 in 15 overs. Then the introduction of slow stuff had us in a spin. Ern ran out of concentration on 18 and, as so often, one brought three. First Private Stretton played down the wrong line to be caught behind for a duck, then Cowlard played a rash upper cut to fall in the same way for 9. At 66-3 we were wobbling.

Drurs though was harder to shift than a limpet, bothered only by the sight of Duncan canoodling in his favourite extra cover slot. Butch, celebrating our new sponsorship from Bob Green the village butcher, started streakily, but was soon cutting and chopping finely to the boundary.

With the confidence of last week’s epic run chase, it was just a case of keeping wickets in hand with only 4 an over required. The pair were largely untroubled, creating Barry more work, with an unbeaten 100 partnership. Drurs ended on 62 and Butch a fluent 53.

Dimps was clearly thirsty uprooting the stumps as the double figure crowd cheered Beakey’s milestone, only to find the scores were still level. This drew an even bigger cheer, but the victory was secured next ball for a 7 wicket win in the 43rd over.

Retreating to The Saluatation, Leggy once again showed the importance to athletes of refuelling properly. All great fun, played in a fine spirit, and we look forward to the return fixture.

You've Got To Be Kidding

A return away fixture with Wollaton was on the cards, in the pairs league, on Thursday. With what turned out to be the best afternoon and evening of the month, the match was postponed with the pitch unplayable after a 30 minute deluge in the Wollaton area mid afternoon...

With Tuckwell, Legge and the tremendously helpful Chris Soar not required back until tea time and 10 eager junior cricketers donned in full whites, a 3 hour practice session in glorious sunshine played out.



The bowling machine was cranked up to practise some offside hitting with Cow(lard) corner strictly off limits.


To me, to you... left a bit right a bit.

With two stumps to aim at and the practise catching net as the only deterent to fetch your own, some finer bowling points were run through as well as a catching champion.



No rest for the wicked. A return friendly against Gedling and Sherwood, at Holme Pierrepont on Bank Holiday Monday, 1pm start.

10 matches follow in June plus the 2nd KCC Schools Festival on the 30th of June.

So Close Yet So Far at the Second Attempt.

Tuesday Night. Wollaton Under 11's in the cup. Customary rain clouds gathering as clear blue skies surrounded the Field of Dreams. Normington won the toss and it was KCC padding up for an innings on the grass wicket.

Normington fell 3rd ball for a regulation caught and bowled, before dad arrived. Neece followed in the next over playing on cruelly via the foot. A quick single left Shepherd stranded and at 15 for 3 off 5 it looked like an early night was on the cards. Healey chipped away supported ably by Coulthard before the latter fell leaving us staring down the barrel at 20 for 4 off 7.

So often the last resort of rescuing a test for the England XI, the heavens duly opened with all its glory leaving Tuckers' Tuck Shop queing 5 deep and a roaring trade.



30 minutes passed before the clear skies appeared, unfortunately the wicket a foot underwater. Legge set off for the best sweep of the season to ensure a 12 over slog... match...could ensue, on the artificial.



Mixed emotion for the home team as the same batting line up gave those already in the hutch a second bite of the cherry and tail baying for wickets to tumble. Dismissals were cheered as wholesomely as boundaries. 'Hit your wickets Brooker' could be heard faintly from days gone by...



Double boundaries from Normington raced the score on to 15-0 off 3 before being run out pushing for a quick single. Neece was determined to prove his worth and meant business. Healey surpassed his first innings double figure score with some hard running before being the first wicket to be dismissed in the 9th over with the score on a pleasing 42.

Shepherd paced to the crease but unfortunately spotted a shiny metallic feathery water creature and was quickly followed by Steiner after both batsmen found themselves at the same end. 43-4 off 9. Vocal calypso team support cheered on every lusty blow from the willow of Neece.

Stolworthy came and went leaving Coulthard as support. 1 run off the final 2 overs slowed the rate to leave a searching 55-6 off 12. Neece the pick of the batters with an excellent 20 and the highest score to date. 56 the victory total.

The ever dependable Newell (3-0) opened up the hill ably supported, in the absence of Brown, by Healey (4-1), who removed the off stump with his penultimate delivery.
9-1 off 4.

The change bowlers would be key and didn't disappoint; Steiner (6-0) caused confusion and Normington destroyed the stumps at midwicket with a direct hit. Shepherd (10-0) bowled well, as the arm was being chanced. 25-2 off 8. Normington consolidated up the slope leaving Wollaton with 26 required off 3 overs.

A dream start for Stolworthy saw a rank rank full toss slammed high and hard over deep midwicket. Unfortunately for the opposition, a man you'd put your mortgage on, Newell, slid in taking a spectacular catch and was promptly mobbed by his team mates.

However this was to be the last highlight of the evening as some aggressive long handle and wide deliveries saw the total polished off with an over to spare.

Disappointment, but plenty of positives and hopefully lessons to be learned and valuable experience gained. Well done.

What a shower!

The weather returned to form with a howling gale and heavy showers being the low-light of the days play. The pitch was sodden after the rain of the previous few days, so it was a good toss to win, but it appears that tossing up is not one of the skipper's strengths and he quickly needs to invest in a double-headed coin.

Having lost the toss, Keyworth were unsurprisingly inserted by the visiting Newstead Abbey in a reduced 42-over match. The home side put out their strongest side to date this season, with Andy Wilcox making his return debut as an 11th hour call up to replace love-struck Lee Potts. Marc Bailey (16) and Dougie Bayford opened up but Doug was soon back in the hutch LBW for 1 . He was followed by Emma Dale, caught in the covers for 7 as the heavens opened and the rain came down sideways. The ever-changing conditions meant that the ball was doing all sorts and not coming on and the wet outfield meant boundaries turned into 2's.

However a 69 run partnership from current and ex skippers Graham (71) and Rendu (27) put Keyworth back on the front foot. The pair seemed to be observing radio silence with their run calling, so opted for the safer option of hitting boundaries. Ben Elliott (8) came in to support IG as he teed off in their 43 run partnership.

A few of the under-12's were watching and Bobby talked himself up as he told the youngsters to keep an eye on IG as he was the 2nd best batsman in the club...

The lower order did a great job of setting a testing total in the final overs with Bobby Baker walking the walk by smacking 11 in 5 balls. Dave Strong (15*) emulated his hero Michael Bevan again with a red-inker, but his two consecutive 6's in the last over were a joy to watch. At the break the Millers were reasonably happy with 181 for 7, which could have been 230+ on a drier day.

The Baker tea was a food lovers delight with Paula ticking all the boxes; coronation chicken & egg mayo wraps, mini spring rolls with hoi sin dip, fruit kebabs, profiteroles, and jam & cream scones garnished with a fresh strawberry being the highlights.

The weather improved after tea with the pitch and outfield soon drying. The returning Andy Hiller was unlucky as he blew out the cobwebs of the previous days end-of-exam all-dayer down the hill with Strongy toiling away at the other end for a really tight spell of (6-3-9-0) that deserved a wicket or two.

More bad weather came in for half an hour and the squall nearly did for HMS Collison as the sightscreen blew over onto the hedge.

A double bowling change of Wilcox and Dave 'HR-H' Hiller only had the effect of accelerating the run rate as their combined 6 overs added 43 to the Newstead score, with Dave being devilishly hit for 3 sixes.

The breakthrough didn't come though until the 20th over with Graham (2-48) taking 2 wickets in his second over. Newstead were making steady progress 68-2 off the first 22. The opening bat only seemed to have 3 shots; a block for good balls, a straight drive for the half-volley and an across the line moo for everything else. But his policy reaped rewards as he hit 11 4's and 4 6's on his way to a match winning 99.

The spin twins of Baker and Graham could not find the edge of the bat on a turning wicket as the run rate was maintained and chances refused to come.

Only the late introduction of Rocket Rendu for 3 overs of controlled fast bowling (2-13) gave the glimmer of hope of a draw for the home side as 3 and over was required off the final overs. But with 6 balls left it was all over as Newstead won with 5 wickets down, leaving the Millers still without a win.

Last Gasp Lays

Another last over thriller as the Stiffs finally beat old friends Caythorpe in a dramatic run chase.

Big Ted had an embarrassment of pre-match riches as we were in danger of turning up with 13 players, 3 umpires and 2 scorers. After an unsuccessful dalliance last season, Duncan Disorderly was looking forward to hooking up once again with the home side's young scorer. Ted nipped love's young dream in the bud turning our romeo back at Saxondale roundabout.

Pre-match preparations were varied: Mr Dearden caught up on year 9 German exams, while Kingy completed his Lucky 15 selections at Sandown Park.

A passing shower meant the toss took place in the safety of the pavilion and Ted gleefully chose to bowl in a match reduced to 36 overs.

It was like old times as Scooby paced out his run still pished from the night before, to bowl at Kingy, half cut from 3 pints of pre-match amber nectar. Barney had invested in a new bat during the close season hewn from the major oak and as usual started bludgeoning our attack to all parts. Cowlard almost got the breakthrough as an edge went through Ted's hands and unfortunately hit his shoulder rather than his soft belly and dropped to the floor. Kingy raced to 33 before AC got revenge with a clean bowled.

Then controversy. Caythorpe's young no.3 got a blatant nick behind off Scooby and refused to walk, a decision more unjustifiable than an MP's expense claim, and totally out of keeping with the fantastic spirit normally present between the two sides. This ultimately cost us 60 runs as we struggled to get a breakthrough as the board ticked over at an all to quick 6 an over.

Leggy struggled to run into the strong wind and played Jonesey back into form. Our fielding was not a patch on previous weeks, Drurs leading the parade of cart horses, while Leggy, One Gets Two and Butch spilled catches.

Meanwhile Kitch, happily recovered from a career threatening chipped fingernail, was more on target and broke the partnership. A few overs later Barry was getting twitchy in the archives as Kitch found himself with the chance of a second career hat trick, Phil taking a great catch at deep square leg, then Drurs one more straightforward at mid on. Freddie Truman kept out the hat trick ball.

Cowlard returned for a fine second spell taking 3 wickets and Caythorpe finally reached 205-7 off their 36 overs, a big score that could have been much worse. AC took 4-43 and Kitcho 3-56.

Tea was the usual fine feast: the highlights being cheese and beetroot sandwiches, coffee and walnut sponge, and Newcastle losing to Fulham.

Scooby and Drurs got us off to a rattling start racing to 40 in 8 overs. Sadly Tony went for 17 to another weak chip to mid wicket. Drurs was timing his on-drives perfectly getting Kingy gasping for breath chasing the ball all the way to the boundary. Then Dimps was literally hopping mad, misjudging the line of a pull of the legs, to cop a blow on his kneecap. The introduction of spin did for Drurs, leg before middling a ball onto his pads for 34. Private Stretton fell soon after for 10. After 22 overs we were 100-3.

Then a wonderful partnership from Boom Boom and Cowlard. Ted regularly flicked to mid wicket off his legs while Cowlard continued to play gun barrel straight. Ted was fully in the zone, falling out with the young wicketkeeper, demanding to know if he was standing up or back, the reply "I'm floating" resulted in some industrial language from the skipper. A storm was brewing off the field as well with the giant sightscreen blwoing over. Both bats moved into their 40's and we were down to needing 28 off 4. Then a flurry of wickets, all bowled, as AC 49, Ted 45 and Kitch 3 all tried to settle matters with extravagant blows.

We were fortunate to have depth in our batting and father and son Ernie and Paul had nerves of steel. Paul steered a couple of beautiful late cuts and a then few overthrows cut the target to 11 off 2 overs. Kingy set 4 mid wickets and 3 backward points to look to starve Evergreen Ern's run supply, only to see a majestic cover drive rattle to the boundary. The next over Paul edged the winning runs to cap a fantastic run chase and spark scenes of jubliation. We celebrated our 2nd win in 2 weeks, Ted his 2nd win in 2 years!!!!

Rain Doesn't Stop Play

There was more chance of Caythorpe turning up the week previous than Thursdays game against Kimberley happening. A monsoon like rain cloud hovering across the whole of the Midlands on Breakfast TV had Tuckwell bracing himself for a night of Corro.

With no rain by 4, and told to pull himself together by Legge, it was game on in overcast conditions. Cairns, Newell and Stolworthy came in for Tudor, Coulthard and Mills. The latter bringing up a freshly baked batch of team blueberry muffins, inspired!

Sharon Cairns cranked up the urn and bagged up the penny chews in the Tuckers shop, ably assisted by George and Billy, and opened for business with a queue of cash laiden kids and cold adults.

Healey and Shepherd opened as a well drilled Kimberley outfit took the field. With a tight line being bowled both openers looked to go aerial, but unfortunately unable to clear the inner ring offering 3 chances that were professionally gathered. 195 off 4

Neece got an absolute pearler second ball, a faint outside edge looked to be rocketing to the boundary but the keeper took a magnificent diving catch. Normington set about the attack with a captains performance and some excellent running saw the pair put on 22 runs for their 4 overs. 211 off 8

The keeper took a faint edge off Newell and squared Stolworthy up for a hat trick delivery that was fended off. Runs were hard to come by but the pair kept the ball down. 199 off 12.

Everyones favourite lefty, Steiner, accelerated the wides count, joined by Cairns. Accurate bowling and some loose lofted shots presented 3 gladly pouched catches. Steiner warmed the huddled support with back to back boundaries and 14 off an over. 200 off 16.

Hennessy and Brown faced the returning opening bowlers who teased the pair into playing some shots with the ball rarely deviating off middle. 191 off 20. (269 for 13)

As the clouds darkened and the brollies went up Newell took the opening bar of soap. A mix up between the batsmen ,on the first ball of the over, saw Healey firing dart like to Hennessy behind the stumps, who whipped off the bails for a dream start and leading to the customary mass celebrations! Brown bowled in tandem, very tidily down the hill. 213 off 4.

Steiner (11-0) and Stolworthy (5-0) bowled very well as the rain began to strengthen. The Kimberley duo gave the Keyworth boys a batting lesson in valuing their wicket and accepting the wide deliveries to increase the total to 229 off 8.

Neece (12-1) raised the spirits in his first over, Umpire Legge, raising his finger as one wrapped the pads before reprimanding Hennessy and Normington for discussing the relative merits of You-tube.

At a gross 243 off 10 overs Tuckwell jinxed the Kimberley innings discussing to his counter part that 300 could be attainable, a feat achieved in Kimberleys previous matches.

Shepherd was having none of it and bowled his best spell to date and warranted an extra 3rd over. A slower run up increased the accuracy and proved unplayable, but was unable to find the edge. A huge LBW shout disorientated the batsman who took off for a quick single but Neece fired into Hennessy for the second run out of the day.

Cairns removed middle stump with his first delivery and some excellent fielding gave him the pick of the bowling figures, 2-0-4-1. 236 off 15.

Normington and Healey finished off as the rain eased and the gloom darkened. The Kimberley duo once again treating the straight ball with respect and offering a chance less final knock amidst good line and length. 254 off 20. 278 for 4.

In the cold light of day a 63 run defeat but many positives to be taken from the game. The first competitive league game against a very good Kimberley side that were well disciplined and far more experienced in keeping their wickets.

Kimberley managed only 8 more runs to show once again that the boys are comparable in the field and with the ball in hand. Which backs up what the boys have shown in every game so far.

The art of the pairs game is to not get out and with wides at 2 runs a piece, forming roughly half of the innings totals so far, there is plenty of chance to post a sizeable total.

Enthusiasm still sky high and fantastic to see.

Wollaton at home on Tuesday @ 6pm. Wollaton away on Thursday @ 6pm.

Firsts pipped in 497 run thriller

Keyworth welcomed Clifton Village II's to a sunny and windy FOD. The good weather has done wonders for the early season tracks and groundsman Mick White produced a real belter for the 2nd week in May.

The batting line up was bolstered by the return of Mark Bailey, Ben Elliott and newly engaged Dougie Bayford to the starting XI but were without Bill & Ben Hiller who were doing their homework. The home side lost the toss and were put into bat with Clifton appearing to think that their strong batting line up should be able to chase down any total.

Mark Bailey and Ted opened up with the latter bowled for 7 after making a steady start. Emma-Dale (21) and the patient Bailey then put on a useful 51 run partnership in 10 overs.

After a measured start, IG soon unleashed on the slow seamers sending the ball to all corners with his 41 in 36 balls coming to an end after he managed to pick out the lone fielder on the deep square leg boundary. At 150 odd for 3 in the 35th over the foundation was set for the middle order to capitalise, but the home side managed to lose 3 wickets in as many overs with Rendu (0) Drearden (1) and Bailey (41) falling in quick succession.

Fortunately the Millers batted down to 11, and fine cameos from Strongy (23 in 20 balls), the clean-hitting housewives favourite Dougie (39 from 40 balls), the league's best No.10 Bobby Baker (17* in 12 balls) and able support from Ben (12) and Beakey (5*, including the 2nd textbook on-drive in as many weeks!!) saw an impressive total of 248-9 being posted. It was like the Keyworth of old with everyone making a contribution, but if one batsman had gone on to make a big score, 275 could have been reached.

The Rendu tea was a fine platter as usual with freshly cooked pizza, bacon and chicken wraps and juicy strawberries the highlights.

In reply, the Villagers got off to a rapid start with Strong and Rendu seeing 71-0 coming off the first 10. Strongy was unlucky as IG had the first of his two drops at 1st slip in the 5th over.

The spin twins of Baker and Graham came on to take the pace off and soon reaped rewards as the visitors slowed to 98-2 after 20. However, some big hitting from No.s 4 & 5 meant runs continued at a pace and the near dark and drizzly conditions did nothing to help the fielders, with Rendu dropping a skier in the deep and Dougie almost making two half chances.

The introduction of Mark Bailey in the attack didn't have the desired impact with his first two balls going for 6 and 4, but after finding his rhythm he bagged a brace. At 230-5 after 40 the game looked up, but a mini collapse gave the Millers hope as Rendu and Graham came back into the attack and a further three wickets fell. The Rocket Man's second spell was the best he'd bowled in quite some time.

But it was not to be and the total was reached in the 45th over with 8 wickets down.

So, disappointment in the end, but an all round performance like this against one of the league's better sides gives real encouragement for the rest of the season.

The return of the Hiller sisters next week will be to the benefit of the bowling attack but unfortunately will mean we only bat down to 9 (!)

Quarter Final Appearance

Without a ball being bowled the Keyworth Under 12's now find themselves in the Quarter-Final of the League Cup, after more team problems - this time at Gotham.

Established West Bridgfordians will be the opponents in a game to be held at the Field of Dreams sometime before the 12th of July.

Dad's Army

A fine team effort rewarded Ted’s faith in experience over youth with a win for the 2nds away at Kimberley.

Cowlard was away at a wedding and Kitcho nursed a career threatening bruised finger, replaced by youngsters Beeton, Burton and Meek.

The crock of gold at the end of a rainbow would have been easier to find than the ground, with the back streets of Kimberley resembling Hampton Court maze.

Leggy took over the captain’s armband, lost the toss, and we were batting on a pitch just slightly more prepared than the adjoining football outfield.

We got off to a great start with Scooby and Ernie putting on 138 for the first wicket, enjoying a decent amount of filth. After two soft dismissals Tony was determined not to get out and hit 13 4’s and a 6 on his way to 86. Ernie frustrated the bowlers taking his usual guard half way down the track making 35.

The partnership was chanceless but Leggy was not taking any risks having four men padded up in case of another Keyworth collapse. Both openers fell in quick succession to leg spin to leave Drurs and Private Stretton to push on for maximum batting points. The pair put on 68 to take us beyond 200, but Leggy wanted more, threatening Fraser with guard duty if he didn’t score at 12 an over. Still this wasn’t a car bonnet to bat on once the bowlers had realised the importance of pitching the ball. Fraser was out off the penultimate ball for 22, to leave Top Man to take us to 215-3 at the break, Drurs was unbeaten on 49.

Tea was right up there with the worst we’ve had, thoroughly undeserving of the £30 price tag. Not even Gordon Ramsey could have turned round this kitchen nightmare.

We needed a tight start and Scooby and Meeky were bang on target conceding just 30 from the first 12 overs. Scoob picked up 2 wickets, the second the champagne moment, Ernie pouching a rocket at mid on that had to be surgically removed from his hands. Tony somehow hobbled through his spell to finish with 2-19 off 12.

Boss Hogg kept up the pressure and frustrated the young no.4 who’d scored a ton against us a fortnight ago, grabbing his valuable wicket for 36.

The rate needed was rising from 6 to 7 to 8, but so was Leggy’s blood pressure as our fielding went to pieces. Leggy had prepared a pre-match DVD of level 2 fielding skills, but unfortunately only had the West Indies first test shambles as archive footage. And we had all manner of fumbles and drops that would have seen Billy Smart drooling. Liam was falling out with himself before, during and after every delivery, bowling a good spell of 1-37 off 7.

Some decent hitting saw us get a little fretful, but with 10 an over needed from the last 10, we were always more or less in control. Meeky and Top Man saw us through as the home side ended on 199-7.

We celebrated back at Kimberley’s favourite pub, The Cricketer’s Rest, with Landlord Meeky serving up a fine platter of coronation chicken sandwiches. Leggy ran us through week 2 of Samit Patel’s new fitness regime, which left a couple of crusts between the rest of us.

Special mention to Dimps for umpiring and Chris Soar for scoring.

No Show Can’t Dampen Enthusiasm.

Excitement was high for the Under 12’s first ever league match, with Caythorpe the visitors in the pairs format. With preparation complete all that was required was the opposition. Optimism remained high from the assembled as Tuckwell searched the phone book as the time passed the scheduled 6 o clock start.

With each car that entered the car park Tuckwell took a step nearer to a return to the City Hospital, as the elation then deflation became unbearable as first the bowls team, then the Cubs appeared, proving false hope.

A bemused call from Caythorpe arrived at 6.25 with the news that they had decided to pull out of the league a couple of days before, Cheers for that!

16 eager children and even keener dads were baying for cricket and a pairs match ensued. It was wickets a plenty for Brown, H. Stolworthy, J. Stolworthy, Mills, Newell, Neece, Palmer and Normington. Newell with 3 thanks to the safe hands of Mills and Normington. Mills Snr pouched a nice one at midwicket with Neece rock steady on the boundary taking a fierce pull shot.

Plenty of wickets also for Healey, Tudor, Steiner, Shepherd, Coulthard, C. Cairns and Snooks as Jack Cairns took the gloves impressively for his first ever go. Healey was unplayable removing the bails 3 times. Brown Snr took the catch of the evening: a casual over the shoulder take on the move after Steiner connected.

Leggy and Normington Snr did a sterling job as umpires amidst much merriment.

Despite the temperature dropping on the sidelines it was more great news as Sharon Cairns very kindly offered to cater for home games with a Tuck Shop being open. Thank you very much.

The next fixture is Kimberley at home on Thursday 14th. The Wollaton Cup game, in the diary for Monday the 11th, is now Tuesday the 19th at the Rec.

First Blood to the Plums

A lovely sunny evening saw neighbours Plumtree arrive in town. The nature of the fixture ensuring a bumper crowd with many familiar faces, including Sticky Palmer with son Joe in the opposition ranks.

Catching practice was in full swing with the cradle and net being put through its paces. Plumtree elected to bat with Legge and Tuckwell, behind closed doors, going through the final preparations and outlining the significance of the match.

The King of Swing, Tudor, was unplayable up the slope with wicked flight and drift for two successive maidens. Steiner was also unplayable, unfortunately the wide ball being wide, causing Legge to nearly take off with excessive arm movements but the score remained very tidy, 21-0 off 8

Shepherd built up a head of steam down the hill but couldn’t find a way through. With the opener into double figures it was Captain Normington who made the break through with a timely caught and bowled, as the score began to accelerate. Mills removed off stump with his final ball, a proud moment for watching Grandfather and ex-KCC President, Alan Copson. 46-2 off 14

A fantastic bowling partnership by Newell (2-1) and Healey (2-1) ground the Plumtree innings to a halt. Newell removed dangerman Machin, forcing a looping drive down the throat of Brown at mid wicket, to ensure bragging rights in the playground.

Healey had Legge purring with a series of in swinging deliveries, the penultimate removing Joe Palmer’s off stump. Neece pounced on another steepling catch off the bowling of Stolworthy, with dad arriving in the nick of time to witness the fine handling.

56-5 off 20 was a very pleasing fielding total which certainly turned a few heads.

A job well done in the field

Normington and Healey opened with the Plumtree strike bowlers on top but unable to beat the resolute defence. Palmer with equal unerring accuracy with a double maiden. Normington was the first to return to the hutch, bowled, with the game delicately poised at 19-1 off 8.

Healey 10* was retired leaving Shepherd to stride to the crease. Unfortunately he strode straight back as eyes lit up to a slow flighted straight one, suffering the fate of many KCC legends before and no doubt future. But with every cloud, Hennessy stepped up to the plate and rekindled thoughts of a victory with some fine leg side hitting, before retiring on 11.

5 runs in 4 overs swung the advantage back to Plumtree. Cairns fell to a peach leaving Steiner to steady the ship and requiring 11 off 18 balls. Palmer was brought back and promptly took the wicket of Steiner finishing with a superb figures of 3-2-3-1.

With a tight line and length being delivered Brown and Tudor tried to push KCC over the winning line. Tudor was caught on the penultimate delivery leaving Neece to hit a boundary off the final ball for glory. An excellent ball outside off stump meant it wasn’t to be, on another nail biting night. 53-5 off 20.

Testament to how far the boys have come and how much they have raised the bar, in that there was almost an air of disappointment not to have won – and this in only their third ever competitive game and after barely 14 weeks together. Well done. We are very proud of you.

Useless Tosser

The Stiffs just failed to snatch an improbable victory in a classic game against old rivals Wilsons.

The selection merry-go-round saw a squad of 12 at the Field of Dreams, with Dimps opting to don the umpires coat. The return of the Legends continued, first Scooby, and now Kitcho returning home after five years on the golf course.

Hopes were high with Cowlard taking on the captain's role after an unbeaten stint last season, but lost a vital toss that saw us batting first on a damp track after a wet week.

The Wilsons' medium pacers got plenty of low bounce and slow pace with the new ball and our top order were all at sea. Scooby crashed a magic back foot boundary through the covers, but then chipped a full toss to square leg. Duncan Disorderly was low on sleep and was soon back for a nap after a brief 2. Then Cowlard, fresh from a maiden century, went from hero to zero, caught behind first ball. Ernie got frustrated and was bowled on the charge for 7, and we were in a mess at 22-4. Jude arriving with the teas, was greeted by Cowlard; "you best hurry up!".

Drurs and Paul 'One Gets Two' Lay dug in for a dull but necessary partnership, like Boycott and Tavare in their prime. Not only did they need to shut out the Wilsons' seamers, but also the dreadful beat box from the local youths on the Nottingham Road benches, with an awful mix of tinny tunes, DJ skills more Simon Harris than Calvin Harris.

Inspired by a blast of 'Pass the Dutchie', Paul whacked his first boundary and things were looking up as both opening bowlers finished their allotment. Then Paul got the ball of the day, shaping to leave a wide that swung in at least two feet to clip the top of off. A partnership of 36 meant we might at least have tea ready on time.

Kitcho strode to the crease and made a mockery of the previous huffing and puffing, starting 0, 4, 4, 4. Drurs battled on before being caught and bowled for 34. Liam made just 1, but 16 year old Billy Harrison showed a lot of promise with a fine 17, including the shot of the day an effortless 6 clipped almost to the Scout Hut. Kitch smacked a beautiful 7 iron straight into Ashley Road gardens but then was clean bowled for a fine 33.

The Under 12's had arrived for a spot of practice under the expert eyes of Legends Tuckwell and Palmer. And backs were soon to the play as Leggy strode to the crease with a set of cross bat slogs that wouldn't be found in any coaching manual. The Boss hit 13 all through the mid wicket arc. The innings ended with Leggy running out Pete Harrison to see us all out for 127, well below par, but far better than feared.

Tea by Jude would have fed a small army for weeks. Highlights were coronation chicken wraps and flapjacks, while Tinno wolfed down at least half a dozen slices of chocolate biscuit cake.

In reply, the ball was old and the pitch had dried out, and while we bowled tidily, the Wilsons openers were untroubled in putting on 54 for the first wicket.

Scooby finally got a breakthrough, Leggy pouching a catch off a fine slower ball. Defending such a small total, our fielding was fantastic, with all manner of shins, ankles and beached whale dives being used to save valuable runs. Cowlard was safe hands at first slip as Scooby bowled out his 12 overs, taking 2 wickets for just 15 runs. It was like old times up the hill and Kitch deserved better as a couple of slower balls missed by inches. Cowlard took over and prised out 3 wickets, Kitch holding a blinder at extra cover.

The returning First Team had cracked open the Crucial Brew and sensed an unlikely upset was on the cards. Leggy had nerves of steel taking 4-22 as the pressure built. Cowlard took two catches, one a blinder at deep mid on, the other a stroke of luck as he collided with Pete Harrison, only for the ball to bounce up into his hands.

From nowhere, the last pair were at the crease with 8 need to win. Dimps looked more uncomfortable than Gordon Brown on You Tube, as we had at least a dozen LBW shouts: one that pitched on the astroturf looked close, while another that came off the inside edge was clearly hitting middle. But we couldn't breakthrough and the scores were tied into the last over. Kitch was roared in down the hill and almost took a miraculous caught and bowled as the winning run was struck.

Despite losing, we strangely had a winning feeling, after almost clawing back a victory from an awful start.

Post match comment centred on revelations that after losing 10 kilos in the close season, Leggy had been approached to act as Samit Patel's fitness coach.

Firsts Eclipsed at Caribs

A depleted first team under the leadership of new skipper Ian Graham failed to open their winning account in the first game of the season in Division B at a sunny Hyson Green.

Despite having a new regime, it was same old Keyworth in terms of selection headaches and mis-communication with only 10 men taking the field despite some last minute mercy calls. What was new for this season was seeing ex-captain Rocket Rendu and ex vice-skip Bobby Baker turning up at the ground a full 45 minutes before the match - they must have forgotten to change their clocks a few weeks ago...

The Caribs won the toss and put Keyworth into bat on a rock hard track. The conditions were perfect for a bit of swing and seam and new dad Emma Dale was soon back in the hutch for a miserable fourth over duck. Ted (4) and new star No3 Bobby Baker (11) soon followed as runs were hard to come by as the opening bowler sent down 8 consecutive maidens.

Some poor communication between the ex and current skipper led to IG (22) being run out when he was just getting going. New boy Phil Drearden looked good in the nets, but a rush of blood second ball saw him fall without troubling super-scorer Shelley. Next ball Rocket (7) misjudged a long-hop and was bowled meaning poor Beaky (6) had no chance for his pre-innings fag and he scrambled to get his pads on. It took a genuine all rounder to save the Millers from a sub 50 score with Dave Strong hitting two big 6's on his way to 21.

Young Chris Soar bravely came in at No10 to face the returning opening bowler, but could not stop KCC being all out for 86 in 35 overs.

Tea was not up to 1909 standard let alone 2009.

In reply the Caribs knocked off the runs in 15 overs for the loss of 2 wickets (one each for all rounders Strong and Baker), with Keyworth being about as good in the field as they were with the bat.

A below par performance, but things should improve in the coming weeks with a full squad to pick from.

Brown Seals Last Ball Maiden Victory.

A familiar sight, as the 5pm meet was surrounded by grey skies but optimism still. The spirits sank through Tollerton as the heavens opened and were marginally lifted at Holme Pierrpont with some brighter areas on the horizon. But fear not! Come 6 o clock lovely sunshine and game on, against a Gedling and Sherwood side organised by former Keyworth player, Simon 'Smudger' Smith, who has introduced an entire Junior Section from scratch at all age groups this year.

An inspiring team talk! Mackenzie (left) visualising his boundaries or auditioning for Star Wars VII

Tudor and Neece were absent as Normington returned. 20 overs pairs was the format for the evening: 4 overs per pair, -5 runs for a wicket, as Gelding elected to bat.

Brown and Steiner opened the bowling attack with the latter striking with his first delivery, removing off stump and being at the centre of a fine run out with his last delivery

214 off 4

Shepherd (6-1) and Stolworthy (6-2) turned the screw on the second pair. Stolworthy, perhaps the pick of the bowlers, had a double break through in his opening over: a clean bowled and then grateful for one of the most superb bits of fielding I have ever had the pleasure to witness. Cairns flew full stretch at a well hit lofted cover drive, managing to finger tip it over the crossbar. Steiner, alert as ever, sensing the opportunity, swooped in, making a one handed pick up off his ankles. Forgetting his impartial role as umpire, Legge was like a spring lamb gamboling around! Shepherd not to be out done scattered the stumps with his final delivery.

212 off 8

Cairns, with his palms still stinging, disrupted the bails in his first over as he faced the pick of the Gedling pairs with Coulthard.

228 off 12

Hennessy (7-1) and Mills (6-1) kept the penultimate pair in order, both striking in their second overs: Safe hands Newell taking a smart catch at point and Mills finding his way through a forward defensive.

232 off 16

An impressive finish for Keyworth saw Newell (3-0) and Normington (5-1) limit the scoring: Normington crucially finding a breakthrough in the final over.

235 off 20 overs. (80 runs less 9 wickets at -5 a piece)

With the skies darkening. Normington and Healey opened up amidst a sharp shower. A boundary a piece saw the score move along nicely before Healey presented a difficult caught and bowled opportunity that was gladly taken.

211 off 4 (214 off 4)

Shepherd, the powerhouse, was accompanied by the perfect foil in Newell: the latter technically astute and alert between the wickets. Shepherd was keen to keep Cliff and Jean warm in the pavilion, and hit a quartet of massive boundaries before playing round a straight one.

228 off 8 (212 off 8)

Coulthard saw his stumps dislodged twice but some good running and a Stolworthy boundary kept the pair in plus figures.

229 off 12. (228 off 12)

With most of the big hitters gone it was left to Steiner and Cairns to form the most important partnership of the evening. Without hitting a boundary the pair produced a chance less knock, with a masterclass in backing up and alternating the left hand / right hand strike with quick singles.

243 off 16 (232 off 16)

Jack Cairns and Dominic Steiner.

Brown and Mills set off amidst a chorus of ‘just don’t get out’ block it’, ‘hit a boundary but don’t get out.’ Ok we get it, don’t get out! A bye edged the score close to a 2 wicket advantage before Mills was caught in the first ball of the next over. A further wicket fell before Brown swatted one from round his ears which agonisingly fell short of the boundary, but vital runs edged the Millers in front. Mills saw out the remaining deliveries, leaving Brown to face the final 6 balls with a slender 2 run advantage that could have been wiped out with a wicket. A text book forward defensive showing sealed the first victory as the boys flooded onto the field and the supporters breathed a satisfying sigh of relief.

238 off 20: 68 runs less 6 wickets

A fantastic night boys, congratulations. Bring on Plumtree Tuesday night at the Rec, 6 pm start, followed by Caythorpe on Thursday, same place and time, for the first league game.

Thanks to Smudger and all those at Gedling. We wish you all the best with the excellent things you are aiming to achieve.