A day of questionable drizzle greeted the Mogs trip to Newdigate for their annual fixture, with the Newdigate clubhouse looking splendid on the outside but sadly empty on the inside - "al fresco" changing methods were employed. Entertainment for all spectators were provided by the TShirt suntans on display as the Mogs batted first.
The Mogs favourite Welshman Rob Brown joined Cooper to open the batting and within 10 balls achieved his second highest score of the season of 12. A difficult run of form compelled by a great catch of a leading edge to see James Toombs "raider" to the crease. Cooper continued to make runs with Toombs driving and cutting the testing opening spells of bowling. Through the next 20 overs or so runs continued to flow. Toombs reached a fine 50 before his dismissal bringing a debut for Richard "Damian" Hirst. Hirst built another fine partnership with Cooper driving some fine Newdigate bowling through the covers. Upon reaching 50 Cooper proceeded to open the taps and accelerate the scoring with Hirst matching him shot for shot. Cooper ended his innings with an unfortunate run out when a straight drive from Hurst deflected onto the stumps from the bowlers hand. Cooper out for 85 and Calls for Hurst to be immediately removed from the club were deemed harsh and a rolling 1 game contract was considered more appropriate by no one who would listen to Coopers side line bilge. Hirst and captain Hewitt continued the momentum with some fine drives and as the innings came to a close Tharp and Brooker also enjoyed the short boundary and some fine driving. Captain Hewitt declared on 260 odd in time for a fine tea.
Melon of the day was the cantaloupe. Not to be confused with the Toadskin. Sweeter than the watermelon but probably not as sweet as other popular cricket tea featured melons such as the valentine or the honeydew. Your writer for the day left in awe of the tea lady's fine knowledge of melon family and it is hoped future match reports give the subject the gravitas it deserves.
Full of sandwiches and a selection of cake and fancy fruits the Mogs opened with a fine spell of bowling from Brooker and Lewis. Keen to make a breakthrough Hewitt came on first change and duly obliged trapping the opener lbw. This brought the Newdigate overseas Aussie to the crease who suggested a tough day was ahead for the Mogs to defend the total with a man short following an ankle injury to fisher in the weekend seeing him arrive at the ground to watch high on night nurse in a desperate search for painkillers.
Wickets fell regularly but there were some lusty blows in between meaning our opposition always lurking around the 6 an over mark. The Mogs stayed in the game with Tharp Cooper and Hirst contributing wickets. A thrilling finish looked in store with Newdigate up to 8 down but Aussie overseas brought up his 100 with the final required boundary with an over or so to spare. A fine innings and a cool run chase. The final team verdict stating it was better to lose a good competitive game than be on either end of a one sided affair. Our thanks to Newdigate for being genuinely lovely hosts and we look forward to seeing the inside of the new 'pavvy'.
Will Cooper
MWCC Stats