8 May , 2004
All games rained off :-(

SATURDAY 15 AND SUNDAY16 MAY , 2004

1stXI - BEDHAMPTON, AWAY
RESULT: BWCC WON
Enfield Turns Back the Clock

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Bishop's Waltham's first ever match in Hants County Division 3 saw them defeat Bedhampton Mariners in a closely fought encounter at Bidbury Mead with Steve Enfield proving to be Waltham's match-winner.

Having won the toss, the Mariners elected to take the new ball and invited Waltham to bat on a drying green track. Openers Bailey and Barrett started pensively and after ten overs skipper, Bailey fell caught and bowled to Layman with only 21 on the board. Dave Oddie (22) and Mike Barrett then put on 75 runs for the second wicket, which proved to be the back-bone of Waltham's 155 all out (44.4 overs). Barrett was in glorious form punishing a succession of short-pitched balls from the Mariners' bowlers, until he stepped back once too often and trod on the stumps much to the amazement of bowler, Aussie John McCoy. Barrett scored 54 in a most entertaining innings, cutting, pulling and stright-driving. Waltham's middle order provided a useful 50 runs, young Ben Simpson contributing 16 and debutee Paul Beaton scored 13 until he was caught one-handed at the boundary. However, the innings was marred by some indifferent running between the wickets and excellent fielding by the Mariners and the final total of 155 would require Waltham to bowl and field well on an ever-improving track in addition to an outfield that was getting progressively quicker as the game progressed.

With quickie Springbok Sean van Duiker chosing not to return to Waltham for another season, skipper Rob Bailey turned to James Logan (J-Lo to his team mates) and the evergreen, Steve Enfield to open the bowling. Logan (12-1-41-2) had early success removing Clark caught at point by Kevin Bowen. Mariners' other opener Chris Grayston looked very solid in defence and was driving the ball with confidence and he and McCoy put on 40 for the second wicket. The introduction of Jonathan Dunlea proved decisive as he removed McCoy for 13, M. Hovey and D. Clark in his spell of 7-1-26-3. But it was the re-introduction of Enfield that proved to be the turning point of the match. His first spell of seven overs had cost 11 wicketless runs. His second spell lasted 3.2 overs and he picked up five wickets without conceding a single run in an excellent display of tight and accurate bowling. His dismissal of Grayston caught behind the wicket by Dave Oddie for 45 spelled the end of the Mariners' fightback and he finished with match-winning figures of 10.2-5-11-5 and Waltham had won the day.

Bedhampton Mariners 7 points
Bishop's Waltham 21 points

2ndXI - WICKHAM, HOME
RESULT: BWCC LOST
FRAIL BATTING IN WALTHAM'S DERBY DOWNFALL

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Creditable displays with the ball and in the field were undone as Waltham II's ended 20 runs short of their neighbours' modest 134 for 8 at Albany.

Burt's match winning 61 containing just one boundary rescued his side from 58 for 5, while left armer Phil Dalton (3 for 43) cursed his ill fortune as the Wickham number 3 was missed twice off his bowling.

Only two other batsmen made double figures as Alistair Gage (2 for 31) and Ray Mitchell (1-24) put in tight 12 over spells.

The pacy James Mitchell clean bowled Burt in the penultimate over, but the home side were left to rue sending down 20 wides.

Judge (3 for 12) strangled the Waltham reply, removing skipper Simon Jones (26) in his final over, while Haywood (3 for 33) ripped through a fragile middle order.

Gage (16*) and James Mitchell (18*) earned Waltham an extra batting point but they closed well adrift on 114 for 9.

SUNDAY XI - BEDHAMPTON MARINERS, HOME
RESULT: BWCC LOST
It was without doubt a magnificent game of cricket. I would be grateful for the forbearance of you hardy souls who have plumbed the depths of this beloved website, as I do not have the scorebook, and being the morning after I had the honour to lead such a gallant team, my celebrations were long into the night.

To start with the Mariners came with many of their first team that had been humbled the day before, by Enners and the other keen youths of our club. They included 2 chaps from the colonies! Using the old double headed favourite, I won the toss, and on an absolute belter (well done Livvy), elected to bat.

But my goodness they could bowl. The trusty Wymbs senior looked in terrific form, fending off top class medium pacers, ably assisted by Funky. This was stern stuff and the openers bore the brunt, took off the shine, they did well. It was not easy to score. On the fall of the openers Adam Wymbs and then Ian Campbell kept up the good work. Then the bowling change, and just as we issued a collective sigh of relief, up strode a strange blonde cove, a left hander (need I say more?), who I fancy I may have viewed through the bottom of a glass once before. His name was Dalton. He bowled fast and accurately. We could do with his like in our club. A demon delivery swung and seamed, to have Ian sharply caught at first slip.

Enter Stuart Hogg, a chap never having touched a bat for 18 months, and so a hastily arranged net before the game. Now beloved reader, I suggest to you that the elusive Hoggy spent much of his misspent youth inflicting a great deal of pain on the bowling fraternity, before attending Her Majesties Pleasure (no, I mean he was in the Navy you suspicious lot). His chanceless 50, (yes 50, first time in 18months!), combined a faultless defence and gracious timing, topped by a casual 6 over long off that has left Wymbs minor thinking he is going to lose another bet. He was rather good. Only fatigue and the demonic calling of myself led to his rainout. After a flurry from Bosty, the bowling changed to absolute tosh, and your author managed a few agricultural hoiks, for us to post a handy 166. In the field we were splendid.

Bosty gave an eight over opening spell of pace (their first teamers said he was far sharper than anything they had faced the day before), with good bounce that gave them nothing. At the other end Zulu displayed his inducing cunning that tied them down. But we had no luck. All afternoon balls in the air evaded fielders. It was not to be our day. More accurate swing bowling from Funky and Scotty kept up the pressure, but their professional from that well known penal colony Tasmania (are they really allowed out now?), luckily managed to nudge a few, and escape his just deserts (no, I mean his dismissal, not hanging). His Royal Wilfiness attacked at pace to claim 2 wickets, and if Charlie could have a rollup for every time he beat the bat he would be a happy copper (not a common sight).

In the field rarely have I seen such a display. Charlie swooping, yes dear reader, swooping in the covers. Ian threw himself with gusto at everything behind the stumps, I can't recall a bye. Scotty and Wilf prowled and scavenged the outfield. Wymbs minor, yes Adam, ran at pace, and threw superbly. Honestly. As captain of this happy band I can only say how delighted I was with the way everyone focussed and performed to the end. They had to work for every run. With just 2 balls to spare they managed to nudge enough to pass our admirable total. What a game!

Our happy band had matched these Mariners (who it must be said were delightful and sporting chaps), armed with a strong team to try and extract revenge for the Saturday drubbing. We matched them stride for stride. We were magnificent. It was an honour to be there in one of the best Sunday games I have played in.

SATURDAY 22 AND SUNDAY 23 May , 2004

1stXI - IBM HURSLEY - HOME
RESULT: BWCC WON
Harvey Hits Halcyon Days

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Bishop's Waltham entertained fellow promotees, IBM Hursley at Albany on a day when veterans took centre stage. Etienne Rademaker and Tony Adams of IBM Hursley and Ron Harvey of Bishop's Waltham all made significant contributions with the bat on an Albany track which played better than it looked.

Rob Bailey won the toss and inserted the Microchip-Men. Etienne Rademaker and Steve Chandler started brightly at four an over until Enfield had Chandler caught in the slips fending off a short-pitched delivery. Jon Dunlea bowling with passion and control clipped number three Pollard's off stump to leave IBM 19-2 after eight overs. Incoming batsman, Tony Adams and Rademaker then compiled an excellent 87 run partnership with the latter punishing some indifferent bowling by the Waltham attack. Rademaker scored 63 valuable runs before a tired looking shot was well caught by Ben Simpson off James Logan. Tony Adams, working the ball all around the wicket frustrated the Waltham attack all afternoon and he went on to complete his half-century finishing on 66 not out. None of the Waltham bowlers performed particularly well and their poor fielding certainly added to the Microchip Men's final total of 175-5 off 45 overs.

Waltham's innings was based around two significant partnerships, both involving veteran left-hander Ron Harvey. Opener Rob Bailey lost fellow opener, Mike Barrett in the second over to an excellent catch at point off Bennett and he was then joined at the wicket by Harvey. They put on 66 runs for the second wicket, with Bailey timing the ball particularly well with pushes and flicks to compile a patient 37 runs before he mis-timed a hook shot and was easily caught off the bowling of S. Adams. Harvey and Dave Oddie then set about the IBM bowling attack, which was depleted when Rademaker pulled up injured after three balls. Oddie scored 39 in a partnership that yielded 82 runs in 15 overs before he was clean-bowled by Weaver. Stuart Bailey (16 not out) and Harvey completed the formalities with Harvey fittingly scoring the winning run to close on 59 not out, with Waltham passing the IBM total on 176-4.

IBM Hursley suffered their second defeat in a row, whilst Waltham have now won two out of two in County Division 3.

Bishop's Waltham 21 points
IBM Hursley 7 points

2ndXI - HEDGE END, AWAY
RESULT: BWCC LOST
BOWERS BASHES BISHOPS AS ROBINSON 50 IN VAIN

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A phenomenal display of clean hitting by Lee Bowers sent Waltham to their second defeat of the season at Hedge End's Norman Rodaway Sports Ground.

On a pitch offering assistance to the bowlers, Bowers who was out for a duck the previous week, drove his way to a dazzling 75 which included 12 fours and two sixes.

Ray Mitchell (4 for 28) brought his stay to an end as Phil Dalton held on to a steepling catch, while tight spells from Dalton (8 overs for 20) and Ashley Mills (2 for 17) slowed the run rate.

With only three other home batsmen in double figures, Pete Boston (3 for 45) accounted for the tail as Hedge End were bowled out for 166.

Dashwood then ripped through the visitors' top order leaving them in abject disarray at 22 for 5.

Andy Robinson (54) fought back with this maiden half-century for Bishop's Waltham, during which he was twice bowled off no-balls.

When his partnership of 70 with Ashley Mills (11) ended in a run out, Dashwood returned to end with figures of 5 for 33), while Smith and Trevor Bowers (two wickets each) ran through the lower order to secure a 49 run home win.

Hedge End 166 (40.1 overs) 22 points
Bishop's Waltham II 117 (34.4 overs) 8 points

SUNDAY XI - CURDRIDGE, AWAY
RESULT: DRAW
Another magnificent game. Gentlemen I have risen early (10am is as early as it gets Barret) to bring you the news of a new member. Last weeks star hadn't touched a bat for 18months, this one, 5 years! More later, but he had young Babs Wymbs trembling for her youngest borns' inheritance, at the thought of him losing more money in his reckless 6's bet. This chap does not run, need I say more.

Our bold captain, JD, elected to bat, on a true hard pitch, but the ball swung heartily all day. While your author prodded hopelessly at one end, our new chum Hoggie (34) defended well and stroked the bad ball, at the other. He was kind enough to take pity on me, and kept up the encouragement as another ball flew past, untouched by my willow. What a decent chap. My embarrassment at being involved in Hoggies second runout in 2 games, is enormous. It was a privelege to watch him from the other end, to date there is no bowler who can dismiss him, just me! Must get my hearing tested.

Wymbs (bowled 10) senior was again in fine form until he got a yorking banana, then in came Dan (48). Now dear reader, I wonder if you share this experience with me. There you are batting away, the bowler swinging it like Botham, and the chap down the other end only seems to get tosh, that he strokes away for 4, or 6 as in Dans case. Then no sooner you get down that end and that bowler turns into Marshall! Except young Dan, tall, athletic, good looking, charming (not at all the usual type from Price Waterhouse), deals in 6's. Big 6's. What an exhibition. Your humble groper at the other end tried to match him and hit one from their demon 66 year old bowler only to spoon it up to cover.

Mark Walker(0) and Scotty(0) both got lifting snorters, and JD sprinted with gusto for 12 not out. A fine total of 198. With this total we attacked. What fine bowling. Wilf (7 overs, 1 wicket for 26), Scotty (6-1-18) and Funky (7-0-33) were the swing kings. Charlie (5-0-13) and Darren (5-0-18) flighted and spun the ball beautifully. The ball flew in the air, never to hand. JD (5-0-13) terrified me at first slip! What a fiery brisk spell, pace and bounce. They were not good enough to get near it. At this point chums I must mention the honourable Wymbs senior. Keeping to JD on this track was tricky, nay, nigh on impossible. The ball was often still rising when he took it, and he was near the boundary. He threw himself, diving, leaping, being struck all over the body. The thuds made me wince. There he was, wreathed in smiles through the dripping sweat. Why should this be dear reader? Of course it was the thought of the forthcoming massage from the jovial Babs, to all his bruises, and trust me, there wasn't much left that wasn't bruised.

But enough of this, because colts and Adam have to read this and I have yet to mention a further star of the day, Mark Walker (5-2-25). What a cracking exhibition of flighted swing. Tormenting the dawdling batsmen. Bowling at the stumps, induckers. Superb. A stunning debut. Well done. Despite all our fielders around the bat all of the innings, the boundaries open to them, their batsmen could only get 179. They failed to rise to the JD gauntlet.

I was wondering about having a man of the match, I would adjudicate of course. Some might say I might be tempted by offers of bribery, and I must admit the cellar is a tad low. But who to pick? I had the honour to play with 10 chaps who gave their all. Special mention to our debutantes, Dan who hit a cover drive that was exquisite, Mark rattling the timbers. It was a lovely day, enhanced by a happy gathering of supporters from BWCC (many of whom would love to play in this team.) Thank you for coming and cheering us on.

SATURDAY 29 AND SUNDAY 30 May , 2004

1stXI - STEEP - AWAY
RESULT: BWCC WON
STU BAILEY SMITES STEEP

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Bishop's Waltham's winning run in County 3 continued in an entertaining encounter at Steep.

Waltham skipper, Rob Bailey won the toss and elected to bowl and his opening bowlers, Jon Dunlea and Steve Enfield tore into the Steep top order and had them reeling at 18-4. Steep, facing an uphill task to rescue the innings, found inspiration in the form of M. Turnbull and M. Lewis who compiled a 61 run fifth wicket partnership which wasn't without chances. Lewis compiled an entertaining 34 before James Logan bowled him to pick up the first of his four-wicket haul. Evergreen Kevin Bowen eventually dismissed Turnbull for a patient 17. With wickets now falling regularly, Waltham reduced Steep to 104-9 and were eagerly looking forwards to an early tea and a modest target to attack. But, they hadn't taken into account last wicket pair of J.Noble and T. Lewis. The pair put on 54 valuable runs including Noble smiting a massive six over extra cover off the bowling of Dunlea before Logan dismissed Lewis for 12 in the 44th over. Steep finished on 158 all out. For Waltham, Logan returned figures of 10-0-35-4 and Dunlea and Enfield picked up five between them.

The Waltham reply was marred by the early dismissal of Barrett caught at point, looking to unecessarily force the play after three overs. Joining Rob Bailey at the wicket, Ron Harvey started his innings patiently against the accurate bowling of old-timer, Rudi Antrobus and S. Curtis. Antrobus bowled his six-over spell for a paltry 9 runs and once he was removed from the attack, Bailey and Harvey upped the run-rate until Bailey, looking set for a big score, was dismissed LBW off Noble for 23. Richard Hughes went the same way for one off M. Lewis.

Dave Oddie and Harvey brought up Waltham's first batting point when Harvey was dismissed for 34. Whatever hopes Steep had of winning the game went when Stu Bailey joined Oddie at the crease. The pair knocked off the remainder of the runs in an 84 run partnership, which was pressured only when rain brought about panic when Waltham were three behind the required rate. Bailey and Oddie then took 31 runs off three overs to put Waltham well in front of the rate. Oddie finished 32 not out, but the innings of the day was Stu Bailey's 27-ball 52 not out with him getting his 50 and winning the game at 159-4 in the 32nd over.

Waltham entertain Hook and Newham Basics at Albany next week.

Steep 6 points
Bishop's Waltham 24 points

2ndXI - PURBROOK III, HOME
RESULT: BWCC WON
MITCHELLS STAR AS WALTHAM II's GET OFF THE MARK

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14 year-old all rounder James Mitchell ripped through Purbrook's batting, his 3 wickets in 8 balls derailing the visitors' victory charge at Albany

Economical spells from Pete Boston (1 for 9 in 8 overs) and James' dad Ray (2 for 31 from 12) helped reduce Purbrook to 59 for 5, but 6th wicket pair Chris Berry (40) and Marsh (22) rescued the innings and looked well set with 43 needed from 9 overs.

The club's youngest AND quickest bowler (4 for 27) ended their stand of 51, bowling Berry off his pads, and then having Marsh caught at the wicket, one of three catches for keeper Andy Robinson.

Purbrook skipper Pugsley went for a duck to a sensational catch at mid off by Meredydd Hughes, leaving left armer Phil Dalton (3 for 20) to mop up the tail to seal a 29 run win.

The visitors' Andy Cragg (3 for 21) had bowled well early on in the Waltham innings but a gritty 25 from Adam Wymbs kept the home side in contention.

Waltham added 60 in the final 12 overs totalling 152 for 7, with double figure scores from Robinson, Martin Livermore, the returning Andy Reynolds and Mitchell junior (14*), and a quickfire 21 from James Enticknap.

Veteran Peter de Cambra (2 for 17) took the pace off the ball at the death, but Purbrook did not help their cause by conceding 42 extras including 29 wides, the exact margin of their defeat.

Bishop's Waltham II 152-7 (42 overs) 22 points
Purbrook III 123 (39.4 overs) 6 points

SUNDAY XI - NEW ALRESFORD
RESULT: GAME CANCELLED
Opposition failed to raise a side.

SATURDAY 05 AND SUNDAY 06 June, 2004

1stXI - LIPHOOK & RIPSLEY II, HOME
RESULT: BWCC LOST
LIPHOOK END WALTHAM'S UNBEATEN RUN

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There were a lot of disappointed faces in the Waltham dressing room after Liphook and Ripsley ended Bishop's Waltham's winning run in County 3 on.

Liphook won the toss and elected to bat on what looked like a 200+ track and openers Tyler and Smyth batted sensibly to compile a 56 run opening partnership on a day when the Waltham bowlers would toil in the hot and sultry conditions. Tyler was first to go, caught at the wicket by Dave Oddie off the bowling of Steve Enfield for 23. Brown joined Smyth and they put on 71 for the second wicket, with Smyth perishing whilst trying to up the run-rate playing over a full delivery from Pete Boston, playing his first, 1st XI match of the season. Smyth who scored 154 the previous week added another 72 to his season's tally. Waltham's bowlers then started getting in amongst the Liphook batsmen with pick of the bowlers, Pete Boston picking up 3 for 37 off 11 overs. The Liphook innings closed on 195-7 after some late order lusty hitting from Brown (30) and Boshoff (34).

The Waltham innings started brightly with Barrett finding his early season form and Rob Bailey stroking his way to 28 before being caught and bowled by Tiler for 28. Barrett and Bailey put on 76 runs in 18 overs to provide Waltham with a platform to attack the Liphook total. The second wicket partnership of 37 between Ron Harvey (18) and Barrett (56) was the last positive for the home side. A combination of poor shot selection and some interesting umpiring decisions saw wickets fall at regular intervals until last man Boston was bowled to close the innings at 167 all out. Liphook's Barrett picked up 3 for 37 in 9 overs and Tyler collected 2 for 38 off 12 overs to complete a great day for the away side who won by 28 runs.

Bishop's Waltham 7 points
Liphook and Ripsley 22 points

2ndXI - BURSLEDON, AWAY
RESULT: BWCC WON
WYMBS AND MITCHELL BLAST BURSLEDON

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Waltham colts product Adam Wymbs and 14-year old pace sensation James Mitchell sent previously unbeaten Bursledon crashing back down to earth in a 472 run feast at a sultry Fleming Park.

Wymbs made light of a variable surface, striking 15 fours and two sixes in an enterprising 90 before falling to the luckless Daren Copus (1 for 47), but by then the Waltham left-hander and opening partner Simon Jones (44) had added 166 in 32 overs.

Left armer Hibberd (5 for 43) bowled full and straight at the death, but the remainder of the home attack had no answer to an irresistible onslaught in contrasting forms of Ali Gage (43) and young James Enticknap (39*) which realised 72 in 36 balls.

Gage played three exquisite field-splitting cuts, a delightful clip off leg stump for six and a reverse sweep, while Enticknap's clean hitting realised seven boundaries including two maximums, one of which ended up in a fairway bunker of the adjacent golf course as the visitors closed on 257 for 6.

Weary Bursledon replied gamely but the introduction of Mitchell to the attack saw home skipper Keeping (30) and Harris (0) fall to sensational slip catches by Jones from unplayable deliveries.

Mitchell later (3 for 39) returned to account for Stockeld (49), and despite lusty blows from Harding (39) and Stone (37*), seamers Gage (1 for 42) and Dalton (1 for 43) ensured that Waltham II's record Hampshire League score brought about a shock 42 run win.

Bursledon 215-7 (42 overs) 10 points
Bishop's Waltham II 257-6 (42 overs) 22 points

SUNDAY XI - HURSLEY PARK, AWAY
RESULT: DRAW
Dear reader, this was a magnificent game. It had it all, sporting behaviour (us), ringers (them), prejudice (me) and teasing (Wymbsy). Twists and turns all the way. One of my few pleasures in life, has been stereotyping and bigoted opinions, you know, the police, welsh, tall fat ginger people, that sort of thing, and here BWCC is destroying it all (except the ugly ginger thing). Because of the unfailing good humour, charm, and downright gentlemanly behaviour of our gallant captain, policeman Charlie. We all know of his legendary ability to roll a perfect fag while bowling his doosra, but captaincy just seems to bring out the best in him.

And so Hursley Park batted. It was a belter. An electric fast outfield, (until what seemed to be a heavy dew after tea slowed it to a snail pace) meant that all of their nudges and flicks raced to the boundary. A masterstroke of tactics saw Darren Leach's teasing offspin (8 overs 2 wickets for 26) and Martin Gibson swingers (6-0-29), opening, and cause problems. Then in came 2 of their first team bats, and they could bat. Our beloved captain tried all combinations, Phil Dalton (6-0-30), Ross Gardner (5-0-40), then our new chums Jamie Chisholm (5-0-30) and Ivor Dawkins (4-1-21, after a loosening first over, bowled a tight full line that was very economical, and a staggering catch by Dalts at deep midwicket on the run), and Adam Palmer (4-0-40) unflattering figures that do not reveal how many times he beat the bat. Then came on the silver fox himself, Charlie (4-2-16). Stubbing out his roll up he tricked and bamboozled, turning it square.

Now about Wymbs senior. The sort of gentle chap you never thought would pull the legs off of daddy long legs, or pinch the last slice of Sally's choccy cake, but he does dear reader. Charlie bowled, their batsman (on 104) charged down the wicket, was again beaten, well out of his crease. You could hear his anguished cry. But keeper Wymbsy teased. Dropping the ball, not once, but twice, to elongate the mans' suffering. Cruel indeed. Hoping to see the whites of his eyes, flailing to make his ground. But no. This bat could take no more, he kept on walking, and twas only when he got to the boundary rope did Wymbsy flick the bail off as a coupe de grace. Shivering ruthlessness.

A ringer from the North came in. Dishevelled, hungover eyes, round shouldered, shifty, hiding under a grey baseball cap, nudged a few runs. But more of him later. They struggled to about 246 (it was a good Chablis I had at lunch), I think. Knowing what a fine batting side we are, Charlie had sportingly rotated the bowling, so we had not put them under too much pressure in the hope of a sporting contest. But no. They bowled their first team giant speedster (for 13 overs), and their Northern ringer to open.

With the dew, the batting was tricky, and the master of the dodgy wicket, Livvy (45 no), kept out their lively attack. He carried his bat for all of the 38 overs. Splendid, simply splendid, turning down runs on offer to help others. Ashley,(15) was in terrific form. One late cut was the shot of the day. This is the shot that helped restore some of my bigoted opinions about Northerners. Because it was after this shot that the ringer let out a stream of oaths that made me drop my walking stick. Ashley was unmoved, dignified. (it was later revealed that but 8 hours earlier the Northerner had taken drink with young Ashley, and had failed in a bid to entice 2 young damsels into his lair, as they batted for the other side so to speak, and was a tad frustrated). Ivor (0) got a swinging yorker from the big lad, Ross (14) batted with style, Wymbsy (9) was resolute. Jamie (6 no) hit some attractive shots. A fine display to reach 97, against a quality attack, and their captain who did not want to lose, or even give us the chance to chase.

All in all, a splendid draw.

SATURDAY 12 AND SUNDAY 13 June, 2004

1stXI - CRANBORNE, AWAY
RESULT: BWCC LOST
CRACKING FINISH AT CRANBORNE ENDS IN WALTHAM DEFEAT

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Cranborne and Bishop's Waltham enthralled the watching gallery in a nail-biting final over finish in County Division III last Saturday

Electing to take first knock, Waltham skipper Rob Bailey lost his opening partner, Barrett early on for 7 pushing at ball from Danny Loader (11-3-36-2), who was proving to be a handful for the Waltham batters. Birthday-boy, Ron Harvey and Bailey patiently compiled a 47 run partnership before Neville Bush caught Harvey in the gulley for 26. Park (12-2-23-3) and Lankage (12-0-42-3) continued to tie down the Waltham batsmen and when Bailey (44) was bowled immediately after lofting Lankage for six over long-on, it was time for the middle order to show their mettle. They struggled to find gaps and eventually capitulated against accurate bowling and it was left to the ninth-wicket pair, Jon Dunlea (15*) and Steve Enfield (7*) to take the score up to 149-8 with a late flurry of runs.

The Waltham bowlers needed to bowl well defending such a modest target and it was Dunlea and Enfield (12-3-19-0) who piled on the pressure for the first sixteen overs conceding less than two an over. Dunlea was unlucky not to pick up any wickets and completed his spell with excellent figures of 8-3-17-0. Change bowler, Kevin Bowen picked up opener Walters for 22 in the 22nd over, whilst his partner, Beacham (57) started to open his shoulders and completed his fifty before holing out to Rob Bailey off the same bowler. Waltham now piled on the pressure and at 104-2 after 37 overs they left Cranborne needing six an over off the last eight. Park (25) put Bowen out of the ground for a massive six, which relieved the pressure short-term until he holed out off the same bowler to Mike Barrett at deep square leg. Boston meanwhile, bowled Danny Loader and Lee Poore off consecutive balls in an over that went for ten valuable runs. Waltham could ill-afford to concede boundaries at this stage and although Bowen's last over conceded only one off the bat, five extras left the scores level. M. Loader completed a remarkable two-wicket win for Cranborne off the first ball of the final over. Bowen finished with figures of 10-2-29-5 and Boston 7-1-37-2. Had Waltham held onto crucial catches, then the outcome might have been different, as it was, Cranborne picked up 21 points and Waltham 7 points. Waltham now face two difficult games against leaders Portchester (home) and high-flying New Milton II (away) in the next fortnight.

Cranborne won by 2 wickets
Cranborne 21 points
Bishop's Waltham 7 points

2ndXI - BURRIDGE III, HOME
RESULT: BWCC WON
THREE IN A ROW FOR HOT WALTHAM

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Waltham's third successive win, matching their total for the entire 2003 season, came at the hands of Burridge III who wilted in the heat at Albany Road.

After tight opening spells from Robin Wintle and Rob Woolley (1 for 41 in 12 overs), skipper Simon Jones (55) and Meredydd Hughes (47) coolly compiled an opening stand of 85, but the temperature rose in the final 7 overs of the innings which realised 64 runs.

James Enticknap turned up the heat with five fours in a rapid 30, while Ralph Stansfield (13*) ensured maximum batting points from the final ball as the home side finished on 200 for 7.

Waltham's James Logan then reeled off a quality spell of 3 of 20 in 12 overs, using his height to extract life from a benign surface while left armer Phil Dalton (1 for 19) kept it tight at the other end.

Skipper Paul Candy (20) and Hutchison (23) top scored for the visitors who also benefited from 33 extras.

Ray Mitchell (3 for 24) pushed the home side towards the final bowling point, but Woolley and chirpy wicket-keeper Gordon Harding both ended unbeaten on 15 as Burridge closed 74 runs adrift.

Bishop's Waltham II 200-7 (42 overs) 23 points
Burridge III 126-8 (42 overs) 7 points

SUNDAY XI - DURLEY
RESULT: GAME CANCELLED
Opposition failed to raise a side.

SATURDAY 18 AND SUNDAY 19 June, 2004

1stXI - PORTCHESTER, HOME
RESULT: BWCC LOST
PORTCHESTER KINGS OF THE CASTLE

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Portchester consigned Bishop's Waltham to their third defeat in a row by the smallest of margins at Albany last Saturday. Portchester beat the Bishop's by one run with victory coming off the final ball of the match.

Earlier, captain, Rob Bailey inserted Portchester who started brightly with openers Paul Hungerford and skipper Craig Stainton scoring at five an over until Jon Dunlea (12-2-41-1) had Stainton LBW for 20 in the tenth over. Hungerford and Shaun Kelly put on another 31 before Hungerford (23) was trapped in front by Kevin Bowen (12-2-36-2). The Portchester top order all threatened to score significant runs but succcumbed to pressure brought about by accurate bowling. Kelly (21), Eddie Jordan (22) and Lee Hungerford (23) all fell victim to Rob Bailey's management of his bowlers. Alistair Gage picked up three wickets late in the innings to finish with figures of 9-0-47-3. Charles Jordan was the exception, he finished 41 not out to take Portchester's total to 176-7 in their 45 overs.

Skipper Bailey rang the changes in the Waltham batting order, replacing opener Mike Barrett with evergreen, Ron Harvey. Harvey departed to all-rounder Paul Hungerford, LBW for 7 in the ninth over. Dave Oddie joined Bailey and between them put on sixty runs before Oddie was caught off a leading edge off the bowling of Kelly for 26. Barrett, coming in at number four and Bailey took the score to 139 before Bailey played on for an excellent 75 off Dave O'Neill (10-1-39-1). Barrett soon departed for 36 and with young Ben Simpson holding the Waltham innings together, the pressure caused Stu Bailey to chance his arm at a quick single once too often and he was dismissed for 4.

Waltham needed six off the final over to win and Stainton gave the ball to Paul Hungerford and it was match on! The first two balls went for singles and then Ben Simpson was run out for 17. The fouth was defended with no opportunity for a run and Ali Gage and Paul Beaton scrambled a leg bye off the fifth ball to leave Waltham requiring three to win and two to tie off the final ball. A leg bye was all that Waltham could get and so, Portchester had won a thrilling match by one run.

Bishop's Waltham 8 points
Portchester 20 points

2ndXI - HAYLING ISLAND, AWAY
RESULT: BWCC WON
TON-UP WYMBS DRIVES WALTHAM WILD IN WEST TOWN

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A sparkling 112 from Adam Wymbs, whose previous claim to fame was that he had hit Chris Tremlett for six over mid-wicket in a colts game, was instrumental in a narrow rain-affected win at Hayling Park.

The stylish left-hander's maiden century included 15 fours and a six as he and skipper Simon Jones (30) racked up a 153-run opening stand after they had been inserted ona dry West Town surface.

Hayling spinner Tom Earp eventually got his man as Wymbs, who has worked on stud farms in America, Ireland and Hampshire, holed out at cow corner in the last over.

By then, James Enticknap was in full flow, slapping an unbeaten 49 as the visitors plundered 79 from the last 8 overs against a dispirited Hayling to close on 232 for 2.

Mist, who had sent down 20 wides in a disastrous four over spell, set about making amends as he struck 10 fours in a dashing 57, but he lost his partner Skeet (29) to a brilliant diving catch by James Mitchell.

The home side were up with the required rate as the storm clouds gathered, but the introduction of Ashley Mills (2 for 12) triggered a middle-order collapse as Jones took a smart catch at short third man.

The home side's hopes went west when the dependable Ray Mitchell (2 for 39) had Earp brilliantly caught at slip by Jones and the teams left the field never to return with Hayling 101 for 5, 11 runs short of their revised target.

Waltham's remain in unchartered territory of the top six after four wins on the bounce, but face their toughest assignment yet as they entertain Porchester II's next Saturday.

Bishop's Waltham II 232-2 (42 overs) 21 points
Hayling Island 101-5 (20.1 overs) 4 points

SUNDAY XI - ZOMBIES
RESULT: DRAW
GRITTED TEETH AND A FIGHTING SPIRIT ON DISPLAY AT ALBANY
Report by Ian "BreakDance" Campbell.

With persistent showers being forecast as the order of the day, it was with some trepidation that Waltham and their opponents, Zombies, changed into their cricket whites on Sunday afternoon. Long sleeve jumpers were the order of the day, as stand in skipper, the evergreen Ali Gage roused the troops into action. Some members of the team required more rousing than others due to an extensive pre-match team bonding exercise the previous evening around the hostelries of Winchester Town. (Encumbent skipper, Dr. Leon Furlong was again unable to take the field due to stories abound of a broken toe. Can his body take much more abuse?). The toss was lost, and Waltham were invited to field. Skipper G. had no hesitation in throwing the ball straight into the reliable hands of Martin "Gibbo" Gibson, whose line, speed, swing and movement off the seam from ball one had the oppostion in all kinds of bother. Zombies opener Cleeve lasted 3 balls, the first two whistling past the outside edge of the bat, missing by nothing more than a supermodels waistline. Martins opening partner was Phil "P Diddy" Dalton, who steamed in from the Allotment end, blonde locks flowing like a lion's mane. Just as Dalton was working up a terrific pace, the heavens opened up and the match was subjected to a 15 minute delay.

On resumption of play, Dalton and Gibson continued in unison, but the delay had obviously interrupted their rhythm, as although both bowled with verve and venom, they were unable to take further wickets in their respective fine spells of seam bowling. Time for a change, and into the attack came Jamie Chisolm and young Tom Scott, the former bowling viscious away seamers, with the latter swinging the ball into the pads of the right-handers. Young Scotty was unlucky on several occassions, finishing with figures of 6-1-21-0 and Jamie with figures of 7-1-1-26. The final two bowlers used were a masterstroke in cricketing captaincy. Charley Farley put some serious revs on the ball beating the bat several times to end up with figures of 8-0-2-50, and Paul "Stumpy" Lister had his first bowl of the season, was on the spot and finished up with impressive figures of 6-0-2-26. The level of Waltham fielding was exceptional. Many a dive that would have graced an olympic event saved runs a-plenty, with Charley Farley leading the way with 4, closely followed by Dave Wymbs and Martin Gibson. With skipper Ali G rolling back the years in the covers, and Stuart Hogg dirtying his whites on the penultimate ball, it was a good effort. Special mention must be made for Phil Dalton, who took 3 stunning catches, one diving full stretch on the artificial wicket, and another taken at shin height running at full tilt. A truly amazing effort. Zombies finished on 175 for 6.

Following tea, the Waltham innings was opened by Wymbs & Hogg (a firm of lawyers if ever there was one). Both were in sparkling form, cracking the ball to all parts, before Wymbs Snr. tried to emulate Wymbs Jr. and take the arial route. Unfortunately the ball did not carry to the boundary and Wymbs departed for a quickfire 16. This brought Ashley Mills to the crease. With new bat in hand, Millsy soon found the middle with a fizzing drive. Unfortunately for him the ball managed to find the middle of the bowlers left hand, who held a stinging return catch. This brought professional Welshman Campbell to the crease. With no runs at Albany this season, Campbell finally remedied this with nifty footwork reminiscent of the the dancefloor the previous evening. Hoggy continued on his merry way, before another catch ended his innings 2 short of a deserved half-century. This man oozes class with bat in hand. Ali G came to the wicket with fire in the belly, and after a circumspect start, saw off an England international spinner (under 16's). Campbell departed to a smart catch behind for 13 after having looked settled, Gage getting himself out for 34 after some lovely cuts and a reverse sweep, Tom Scott getting a snorter before getting off the mark, and leaving Charley Farley and Jamie Chisolm to hit a few lusty blows before playing out for the draw, Waltham ending on 141-6.

The away skipper commented on the quality of the teas served, which must be said was a relief to all. As skipper Ali G was placed in charge, there were fears among the home dressing room of barm cakes, bread and dripping, and day old hotpot, but these were proved to be unfounded. A wide selection of lovingly prepared fair was on offer, and thanks must go to the culinary wizards. Norwich City may have Delia, but BWCC has Gage, Dalton and Mills.

SATURDAY 26 AND SUNDAY 27 June, 2004

1stXI - NEW MILTON, AWAY
Match abandoned after 9 overs due to rain

2ndXI - PORTCHESTER II, HOME
No play - rained off

SUNDAY XI - TWYFORD, AWAY
RESULT: WON
Report by Paul Beaton

Bishop's Waltham Sunday XI turned up for their match at Twyford on Sunday with a hastily rearranged team due to a last minute drop out by Ashley Mills with a wrist injury. Apparently there is no truth in the rumour that it had anything to do with sharing a bed with Adam Wymbs on Saturday night. The Waltham team cheered on by the injured David Niven esque looking Leon Furlong won the toss, and after much thought skipper Gibson decided to bat first (well the opposition skipper suggested the idea) on what was a very soft and slow wicket. Waltham opened with their own equivalent of the "Cowdrey's" with Adam and Dave Wymbs. Dave played with his usual defensive style, whilst Adam tried to keep the score ticking at the other end. Wickets gradually fell (A Wymbs 13, D Wymbs 10, P Beaton 9 {to a great diving one handed catch} and M Gibson 5) leaving waltham struggling at 60 for 4. However a mature partnership of around 100 between Simon "Tripod" Jones and Alistair "Village" Gage saw Waltham through to 180 off an amazing 50 overs. The Twyford bowlers a mix of medium and spin rattled through their overs ensuring maximum batting opportunity for Waltham. Alistair was bowled for a hard worked 34 just before the end but the big fella remained unbeaten on 79. The Waltham team tucked into the DIY tea, only after the Twyford lads had helped themselves first - great etiquette...

The Waltham opening attack of Stumpy and Jamie Chisham kept the opening pair under wraps, with Jamie claiming an early wicket. Stumpy finishing with figures of 5 - 3 - 2 - 0. The Twyford number's 2 and 3 made good progress with their aggressive number 3 hitting plenty of might blows - preferring the boundary method of scoring to the quick singles - not saying he was a big lad in any way. Waltham allowed him to get to his fifty with some poor fielding, in particular three dropped catches from Gage, Dalton and Beaton much to the frustration of the Waltham bowlers. It was left to skipper Gibson sporting the new Waltham cap and latest Clark's slippers to clean bowl the dangerman with the last ball of his spell. At the other end P Dalton bowled a good spell with little reward. With the sight of the 12 year old Twyford number 4 strolling to the crease had Mr Dunlea chomping at the bit, however the youngster didn't flinch as he easily saw off the remaining three balls of the over. It was left to our groundsman Mr Livermore to ket the prize scalp with a spectacular caught and bowled chance, made all the better as he tripped over his lace to make the dive. The remaining Twyford batting offered little resistance with the spin twins of Jones and Livermore at one end and the pace attack of Dunlea and Gage at the other. In the end Twyford were all out for 110 giving Waltham a comfortable win.

Overall a good victory, but once again the Achilles heel for all Waltham teams this year was the fielding. Not enough attempt being made to put full body behind the ball.

SATURDAY 3 AND SUNDAY 4 July, 2004

1stXI - EASTON & MARTYR WORTHY, AWAY
No play - waterlogged pitch

2ndXI - CURDRIDGE, HOME
RESULT: BWCC LOST
CURDS' AWAY FIELD DAY

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High-flying Curdridge brought Waltham II's back down to earth with a solid display in a rain-affected encounter at Albany.

Field (6-24) ran through the home side, with only Simon Jones (14) and extras (11) reaching double figures as the home side never threatened a revised target of 109 in 31 overs following three rain interruptions.

Candy (2-14) was the ideal foil in a home side, shorn of four of the players who had brought them maximum batting points in the previous three games, were dismissed for a paltry 59.

Pone's enterprising 52 which included four boundaries and a six came to an end when Waltham's best bowler Ashley ("ah sey, Ashley") Mills (3 for 42) held on to a steepling caught and bowled.

Fellow seamers Pete Boston, Phil Dalton and Ray Mitchell claimed a wicket apiece as the normally free-flowing visitors were restricted to 147 for 6 in their 42 overs.

Curdridge skipper Skinner (27) and Andy Pearce (31*) also made valuable contributions as Curdridge, only on the losing side twice in their one and a half seasons of league cricket, maintained their momentum towards a second successive promotion.

Waltham meanwhile face visits to two more top six sides - Sarisbury II and Hamble II - in the next fortnight hoping for a repeat of their form against Bursledon and Hayling rather than the comprehensive defeat suffered against their local rivals.

Bishop's Waltham II 59 (28 overs) 4 points
Curdridge 147-6 (42 overs) 21 points

SUNDAY XI - TWYFORD, AWAY
RESULT: WON
No play - rained off

SATURDAY 10 AND SUNDAY 11 July, 2004

1stXI - HOOK & NEWNAM BASICS II, HOME
RESULT: BWCC WON
ODDIE LEADS WALTHAM TO VICTORY IN THE RAIN

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Waltham's new first team captain, Dave Oddie, led his Waltham side to its first victory since the end of May. On a day that was always going to be affected by rain, the toss was going to be vital. Unfortunately, Oddie lost the toss and Hook decided to bowl.

Ron Harvey and Mike Barrett got the Waltham innings off to a slow start until Harvey became the first of Jeloneck's four victims when he played over a full-length delivery and was clean bowled. The fall of the wicket brought in young left-hander, Adam Wymbs, promoted from the seconds following innings of 90 and 112. He put on 22 with Barrett until Cates bowled him for 10.

Hook introduced young leg-spinner Graham Cowan (12-1-30-3) into the attack after Barrett had stroked Cates for six over long on and the Waltham batsmen had taken 30 off Hobday's four overs. Oddie and Barrett's 56 run third wicket stand was broken by Cowan when Barrett played onto his stumps for 29. Alistair Gage became Cowan's next victim when he was caught and bowled off a leading edge for 3 off 24 balls.

Steve Enfield and Oddie took the score onto 116-5 when Oddie was caught two short of a half-century to give Cowan the last of his three wickets. Enfield, looking to make the most of his ascension in the batting order was determined to bat out the overs whilst keeping the score ticking over and he received good support from Paul Beaton, Jonathan Dunlea and Pete Boston. He finished on 27 not-out with Waltham reaching 150-8 off their 45 overs. Jeloneck picked up three late order wickets to post excellent figures of 11-3-19-4.

Seven overs were lost immediately after tea to rain which led to a revised Hook target of 126 from 38 overs.

The Hook innings started tentatively with Dunlea bowling extremely accurately and with great hostility. It was his opening partner Pete Boston who picked up Hook batsman Townsend bowled for four. Mark McNally (31) and Gardner then put on 29 before Harvey caught Gardner in the slips off Dunlea for 10.

With the clouds gathering and Hook behind the run-rate Waltham were expecting the visitors to up their run rate, but accurate bowling from Alistair Gage (5-1-9-2) who removed the dangerous McNally and Dunlea (10-5-11-1) restricted Hook to 74-4 off 28 overs when the rain came. With no further play possible, the umpires abandoned the match and Waltham was declared victors on a faster run-rate.

Bishop's Waltham 18 points
Hook & Newnham Basics II 4 points.

2ndXI - HAMBLE ASSOCIATES II, AWAY
RESULT: BWCC WON
MITCHELL AND JONES HUMBLE HAMBLE