THE prospect of inclement weather loomed over this week’s matches, but, thankfully, did not succeed in stopping play altogether.
Canterbury/Rochester took on London at Rainham Cricket Club on Monday. The match was reduced to 30 overs because a storm was forecast. It duly arrived at 5 p.m.
Canterbury won the toss and opted to bat. This decision soon looked wise against an under-strength London bowling attack and on a lovely batting strip. They had started confidently before an ill-judged single to Davison at short extra cover saw the London opener fire in a direct hit to the keepers end, putting Canterbury at 17-1.
There then followed two excellent 50-partnerships between McDougall and Emslie, and then Emslie and Fitter. Canterbury finished on 166 for 3.
In reply, Beeby and Moffat got the feel of the pitch and played some lovely shots, both scoring half centuries. London reached the target of 167, with the loss of only one wicket, from 18 overs.
London’s dominance of the 2017 tournament shows little sign of abating.
The threat of bad weather also loomed over Leicester’s match with Norwich/Ely at Castle Rising Cricket Club, on Monday; so it was decided to reduce the overs to 20 each.
Leicester won the toss and chose to bat. The openers Orridge and Norman made a solid start, before wickets began to fall, owing to some tidy bowling by Norwich’s bowlers. Leicester finished on 70 for 6.
Chasing 71 to win, Norwich reply started slowly. That was until Heywood came to the crease and made a quick-fire 31 not out, taking Norwich over the line finishing with the loss of 5 wickets.
Southwark had been due to play Chelmsford, but the latter side was unable to field a team on the appointed day. Southwark takes the points.
Canterbury/Rochester 166 for 3 from 30 overs (Emslie 70, Fitter 48 n.o.; Allerton 2 for 23, Moffatt 1 for 14). London 167 for 1 from 18 overs (Beeby 85, Moffatt 68 n.o.; Emslie 1 for 31, Fitter 0 for 26). London won by two wickets.
Leicester 70 for 6. Norwich/Ely 71 for 5 (Heywood 31 n.o.) Norwich/Ely won by one wicket.