With Storm Hannah approaching and arctic winds picking up, Earls Colne lost the toss and were made to bowl in our first and only friendly before the season against Writtle.
Some tight bowling from Daryl Sleeman and Harry Porcher kept the scoring slow and bagged a couple of early wickets. The first change brought about the change in run rate and Bosman (68*) and Alan (52*) started scoring with ease. Jack Holdgate got 2 more wickets but was expensive throughout his 8 overs and then Pat Kerry and Gavin Sleeman were the only other two to get a wicket. Writtle finishing on 289 for 6
After warming up with a cup of tea Earls Colne started the chase. Pat Kerry departing early for 4, that brought Colin Holdgate to the crease and with Daryl Sleeman steadied the ship and started to increase the run rate. Daryl then retired on 53 to give other batsman a chance. Colin went on to get 23 before cutting a full toss to cover. A few wickets fell bring Ian Doyle (25*) on his debut to the crease and he again steadied the ship and coached and batted sensibly with the tail to ensure we batted out our full 40 overs finishing on 148 for 7.
Well done all involved apart from weather it was a very enjoyable game and will set us up well for the season ahead.
Your friendly local club