Southwark and Lambeth Imperials won by 110 Runs

Match Report

Southwark and Lambeth Imperials were the fifth Gent opposition of 2011 sourced via the internet after a cancellation by the original opponents and the fourth to trump the hosts. Recovering from 6-3 to post 185-8 on a sporting wicket, Imperials proceeded to skittle Gents for their lowest total since September 2008. On another day it might have been closer, but the margin of 110 runs was emphatic.

There was an illuminating if somewhat inquisitorial early conversation with captain Packer, a busy bee who had plenty of questions. 'What's a par score here?' (...dunno). 'Should we prearrange the toss?' (...don't care). 'You look a bit weak, are you?' (...whatever). Having persuaded Packer that The Gents were not 'one of those teams we could bowl out for 20' - in the event the hosts were dozens better than that - battle was joined at 1pm prompt. Sarwar was run out in the first over and tight bowling by the openers soon had Inperials at 6-3. There was a good shout for another run out and when Fuller edged to slip Gents' tails were up. Packer's 90 (11 4s, 1 6) was masterful. Very strong off his legs, his successive stands of 52, 49 and 40 ensured a workable final score.

Tea was a less chaotic affair than in some home games although the long hike to the pavilion meant that it had to be taken al fresco. This is a good ground in some ways but the noise of the M4 inhibits interaction. Perhaps whatever instructions Gilkes gave to his batsmen were lost in the roar of traffic.

The captain described Imperials' bowlers as the best faced this season, quite a compliment given the strength of Clapham Inn's attack. Only three men made double figures. It would have been good to get to know this talented oppo better but their Oyster cards were oddly invalid for the short bus ride to the Fox.

©The Gentlemen of West London Cricket Club 2011