Salix won by 3 Wickets

Match Report

Salix consolidated their status as the Gents bogey team at a bleak and windy Harlington by again shading a close, low scoring game. The Gents arrived full of confidence following the previous week's mayhem and were able to field one of their strongest looking line-ups of the season. Having won the toss, the captain and vice skipper made a solid if unspectacular start, Kulasingam as usual producing a tight opening spell. However, the introduction of spinner Ellis sparked a collapse as the Gents tried unsuccessfully to force the pace on the slow wicket and vast, lush outfield. Three batsmen were out to identical drives that held up in the wind, but Salix produced the fielding performance of the season with the catches by Fletcher, diving one handed at slip, and Padmore, a sharp catch off his own bowling, being of particular note. Only Khan with a brisk 27 and the patient debutant Foster did themselves justice and the final total of 93 was deeply disappointing. To compound the embarrassment, both teams had to wait 15 minutes for tea to be prepared.

The Gents knew that an outstanding bowling performance would be required, but the necessary early wicket failed to materialise and Salix looked to be cruising to an easy win. Just as heads were beginning to drop, the breakthrough came and it was suddenly a different game. After a disappointing opening spell Lall returned to his unplayable best, returning 4-14 and inspired a kestrel at the far end to emulate his predatory skills. Ragu too posed a constant threat, but a heavy downpour seemed to adversely affect his footholds and grip, in hindsight another turning point. The strong wind also made the use of bails impossible, an additional difficulty especially as some fielders continued to throw wildly at the stumps apparently unaware that a direct hit would be not out. Salix at one point were unsettled by the quick loss of wickets, but Padmore and Kulasingam dug deep to see them home.

All in all a brave effort from the Gents but with the knowledge that a total of 130, well within the teams ability, would probably have won the game. The Gents seem to thrive on faster wickets and outfields with plenty of potential boundaries, but perhaps need to embrace the acquisition of ones and twos when the conditions demand it. Salix have had a poor season and one of their team was heard to remark that they should play the Gents earlier in the season 'to give us some confidence'. A fixture in drier summer conditions may suit both teams.

©The Gentlemen of West London Cricket Club 2011