For full results, visit: milden.play-cricket.com/Matches

Sunday 12 May 2019
Hunts County Bats Suffolk Cricket League Division 3
Milden CC vs Hadleigh Academy
Hadleigh 255-4 (40 overs)
Milden 121 all out (33.2 overs)
Hadleigh Academy won by 134 runs
Following defeat in the John Bailey Trophy match to our neighbours Edwardstone last week, Milden welcomed Hadleigh to the Milden Sports Field on a glorious spring afternoon for our first home match of the season. Captain Cunningham won the toss, and asked Hadleigh to bat in the hope of exploiting the best of the bowling conditions on a well-grassed but firm pitch. Huge thanks to Mark Isahak for assisting Andrew Simmons through a very difficult week of pitch preparation - multiple days of rain are not welcome leading up to the first home game of the season!! But with the help of a pitch cover and attentive work, we got the game on.
The skipper's confidence in the opening bowlers and fielding first was quickly repaid, Hayton (9-0-2-46) producing a fine outswinging delivery to remove L Woolston for a duck in the second over, without a run scored. New batsman Levitt started aggressively, moving quickly to 13 before being trapped LBW by Hayton in the sixth over with the score at 17-2.
Locke (32) and Shrestha set about rebuilding the innings, and some smart running soon saw the score begin to climb. By the 14th over, the score had reached 56-2, and Milden shuffled the pack in search of a breakthrough.
Every (5-0-1-56) started well, bowling a tight line over the wicket, the change of angle presenting a new challenge for the batsmen. However, with the pressure mounting as the miserly Smith (10-1-0-36) wheeled away at the other end, the dangerous Shrestha began to attack, finding his range to clear the mid-wicket boundary twice in successive overs before being bowled off his pads by Every for 59.
With Smith's allocation completed, Robinson (8-0-0-51) entered the attack after drinks, probing away with guile and control, before Willis (8-0-1-65) replaced Every at the top end in the 24th over with the score at 137, and found a leading edge to dismiss Locke in his second over.
E Woolston (26*) joined Morrin at the crease, and Milden struggled to stifle the scoring rate as the Hadleigh batsmen continued to work the field to keep the scoreboard ticking at six or seven per over. Morrin found the boundary regularly, and was ably supported by some intelligent batting from Woolston to manipulate the strike. Try as they might, Milden could not break the partnership, with Morrin bringing up his hundred in the final over to finish unbeaten on 104, steering Hadleigh to 255-4 at the end of their innings.
Both sides tucked in to a bountiful tea courtesy of messers St Ledger (excellently seasoned egg sandwiches) and Phillips (a perfect balance of savoury & sweet treats) and Milden began to contemplate the chase on a wicket that looked to be improving as the day went on.
Milden's innings started promisingly, with openers Cunningham (48) and Roffey (14) moving smoothly through the gears to 57 for no loss, before Roffey sportingly walked for a run out in the 16th over having been given not out by the umpire.
Ward strode out to take up the baton, he and Cunningham looked to be going well, their partnership reaching 32 before Cunningham was adjudged LBW to Grayling (5-1-16-3) in the 22nd over. Two balls later Ward was following him back to the pavilion, caught by Clark off Grayling for 21, leaving the score at 89-3.
Willis (7) and Banatvala were the new men at the crease, but both struggled to find their rhythm, and had only managed to put on 10 before Banatvala was dismissed by Grayling in the 26th over, caught by Claireaux for four. Perhaps feeling like it might be his day, Hadleigh skipper Morrin decided to bring himself on to bowl, with immediate results as he bowled Willis with his first ball, and St Ledger fell LBW for a duck three balls later.
Milden's resistance didn't last much longer, with Simmons, Every and Robinson all departing courtesy of Morrin without troubling the scorers, as he finished with figures of 3-0-5-4 to go with his unbeaten hundred. Smith hung around for a gritty 14 before returning opening bowler Tampion (5.2-0-1-17) produced a delivery that moved sharply off the pitch to take Smith's off stump, bringing Milden's innings to a close at 121, agonisingly short of a second batting point which would have been earned on reaching 125 runs.
Milden retreated to the Edwardstone White Horse to lick their wounds, and spirits were lifted as our kind hosts and sponsors produced bowls of sausages and roast potatoes for the players, and Fines Tsar Hayton collected reparations for the day's misdemeanours.
Milden travel to Ipswich Cricket Club for their next game, against Freston on Sunday 19 May, a team we have not played in our recent past. Both teams have won one match and lost one so far this season; it should be a close contest. All welcome to come and support the team!
#uptheMeldes
Hunts County Bats Suffolk Cricket League Division 3
Milden CC vs Hadleigh Academy
Hadleigh 255-4 (40 overs)
Milden 121 all out (33.2 overs)
Hadleigh Academy won by 134 runs
Following defeat in the John Bailey Trophy match to our neighbours Edwardstone last week, Milden welcomed Hadleigh to the Milden Sports Field on a glorious spring afternoon for our first home match of the season. Captain Cunningham won the toss, and asked Hadleigh to bat in the hope of exploiting the best of the bowling conditions on a well-grassed but firm pitch. Huge thanks to Mark Isahak for assisting Andrew Simmons through a very difficult week of pitch preparation - multiple days of rain are not welcome leading up to the first home game of the season!! But with the help of a pitch cover and attentive work, we got the game on.
The skipper's confidence in the opening bowlers and fielding first was quickly repaid, Hayton (9-0-2-46) producing a fine outswinging delivery to remove L Woolston for a duck in the second over, without a run scored. New batsman Levitt started aggressively, moving quickly to 13 before being trapped LBW by Hayton in the sixth over with the score at 17-2.
Locke (32) and Shrestha set about rebuilding the innings, and some smart running soon saw the score begin to climb. By the 14th over, the score had reached 56-2, and Milden shuffled the pack in search of a breakthrough.
Every (5-0-1-56) started well, bowling a tight line over the wicket, the change of angle presenting a new challenge for the batsmen. However, with the pressure mounting as the miserly Smith (10-1-0-36) wheeled away at the other end, the dangerous Shrestha began to attack, finding his range to clear the mid-wicket boundary twice in successive overs before being bowled off his pads by Every for 59.
With Smith's allocation completed, Robinson (8-0-0-51) entered the attack after drinks, probing away with guile and control, before Willis (8-0-1-65) replaced Every at the top end in the 24th over with the score at 137, and found a leading edge to dismiss Locke in his second over.
E Woolston (26*) joined Morrin at the crease, and Milden struggled to stifle the scoring rate as the Hadleigh batsmen continued to work the field to keep the scoreboard ticking at six or seven per over. Morrin found the boundary regularly, and was ably supported by some intelligent batting from Woolston to manipulate the strike. Try as they might, Milden could not break the partnership, with Morrin bringing up his hundred in the final over to finish unbeaten on 104, steering Hadleigh to 255-4 at the end of their innings.
Both sides tucked in to a bountiful tea courtesy of messers St Ledger (excellently seasoned egg sandwiches) and Phillips (a perfect balance of savoury & sweet treats) and Milden began to contemplate the chase on a wicket that looked to be improving as the day went on.
Milden's innings started promisingly, with openers Cunningham (48) and Roffey (14) moving smoothly through the gears to 57 for no loss, before Roffey sportingly walked for a run out in the 16th over having been given not out by the umpire.
Ward strode out to take up the baton, he and Cunningham looked to be going well, their partnership reaching 32 before Cunningham was adjudged LBW to Grayling (5-1-16-3) in the 22nd over. Two balls later Ward was following him back to the pavilion, caught by Clark off Grayling for 21, leaving the score at 89-3.
Willis (7) and Banatvala were the new men at the crease, but both struggled to find their rhythm, and had only managed to put on 10 before Banatvala was dismissed by Grayling in the 26th over, caught by Claireaux for four. Perhaps feeling like it might be his day, Hadleigh skipper Morrin decided to bring himself on to bowl, with immediate results as he bowled Willis with his first ball, and St Ledger fell LBW for a duck three balls later.
Milden's resistance didn't last much longer, with Simmons, Every and Robinson all departing courtesy of Morrin without troubling the scorers, as he finished with figures of 3-0-5-4 to go with his unbeaten hundred. Smith hung around for a gritty 14 before returning opening bowler Tampion (5.2-0-1-17) produced a delivery that moved sharply off the pitch to take Smith's off stump, bringing Milden's innings to a close at 121, agonisingly short of a second batting point which would have been earned on reaching 125 runs.
Milden retreated to the Edwardstone White Horse to lick their wounds, and spirits were lifted as our kind hosts and sponsors produced bowls of sausages and roast potatoes for the players, and Fines Tsar Hayton collected reparations for the day's misdemeanours.
Milden travel to Ipswich Cricket Club for their next game, against Freston on Sunday 19 May, a team we have not played in our recent past. Both teams have won one match and lost one so far this season; it should be a close contest. All welcome to come and support the team!
#uptheMeldes
Sunday 28 April 2019
Hunts County Bats Suffolk Cricket League Division 3
Horringer CC vs Milden CC
Milden CC 170-7 (40 overs)
Horringer CC 127 all out (32 overs)
Milden CC won by 43 runs
Milden braved the cold and rain on Sunday for the long drive to Ickworth Park for our first game of the season against newly-promoted Horringer. New skipper Cunningham won the toss, and (despite the overcast conditions) chose to bat in the absence of two members of the team, only to find Wilson and McIntosh duly meandering up the dirt track to the ground as he walked back to the pavilion…
Milden got off to a steady start in tricky conditions, putting on 15 before Smith (2) dragged the last ball of the fifth over onto his stumps. Roffey strode out at number three and looked in good touch before a mix-up with Cunningham sent him back to the hutch two overs later, run out for two.
With the score at 19-2 after the seventh over and Horringer's opening bowler Joseph starting to find his rhythm, Milden needed to steady the ship. Ward answered the call in style, playing watchfully and dispatching anything loose to the boundary. Horringer started to ring the changes with the bowling, but couldn't find an answer to Ward's powerful hitting, supported by Cunningham who rode his luck to a scrappy 45. The pair had put on 100 before Ward eventually departed in the 26th over, caught for a clinical 52 in an innings that included no less than five sixes and two fours. Cunningham's luck finally ran out three overs later as he was caught in the covers off a leading edge, leaving Wilson (13) and St Ledger (10) at the crease and the score at 131-4 with 11 overs to go.
Milden looked set for a good score as Wilson quickly got off the mark with some typically expansive drives; however the rate slowed when he had to retire injured having hit the ball into his knee. St Ledger, Leppard (11), Hayton (8*) and Archer (2*) ably saw out the remainder of the overs, and an audacious reverse sweep from Hayton off the last ball of the innings helped Milden to a solid total of 170-7 from their 40 overs, leaving Horringer a tough chase in bowler-friendly conditions.
Tea was taken, and Horringer put on a fine spread, including sausage rolls, scones, and the novel addition of hot dogs, a popular choice on a chilly April afternoon.
In the field, Milden opening pair Smith (8-2-28-4) and Hayton (10-3-26-3) started well and were unfortunate not to make early inroads as the ball found the edge time and time again, only to fly over the cordon or fall tantalisingly short. Smith finally made the breakthrough in the seventh over, claiming the wicket of E Spurling caught behind for six, before striking again in his next over to remove Rasagopal for 18, Archer pouching a looping chance at second slip. Hayton was soon amongst the wickets as well, producing an unplayable outswinging yorker to dismiss Chandrasekharan Nair, bowled for three in the 14th over.
With Smith and Hayton taking a well-deserved breather after seven overs each, McIntosh (4-0-21-2) and Robinson (5-0-30-1) entered the attack with immediate impact, Hayton taking a simple catch (after a bit of juggling) to remove Kumar for three in McIntosh's first over, before Robinson found the edge the next over to dismiss Limmer caught in the slips by Wilson for two. McIntosh struck again in the following over, B Spurling slapping a short one straight to Robinson in the covers, and Milden looked well in control with Horringer 50-6 from 17 overs.
Horringer's opening bowler Joseph was next to the crease at number eight, and together with Tasker set about rebuilding the innings. The pair played sensibly, pouncing on anything short or wide, and the scoreboard started to tick over again. Wilson (5-0-16-0) hobbled out of the slips to replace McIntosh in the 23rd over and bowled with good control, but was still struggling with his knee and unable to find his usual pace, and with the score starting to climb Milden turned to Hayton again to try to break the partnership.
Hayton was swiftly back up to speed, but Joseph initially proved equal to the task, some aggressive hitting bringing further boundaries for Horringer before an inspired decision to come round the wicket brought instant dividends; Joseph driving straight into the safe hands of Robinson at mid on from the first ball of Hayton's final over for 38. The 69 run partnership was broken, and another fearsome yorker dispatched Sebastian for a duck three balls later, leaving Horringer 119-8 in the 30th over.
Smith returned to the attack to replace Hayton and duly cleaned up the last two wickets, bowling Tasker for a well-fought 38 before Sibu nicked behind for a duck, ending Horringer's innings 43 runs short of the Milden total.
Keen to get out of the cold, both teams repaired to the comfort of Horringer Social Club for a well earned drink. Thanks to Horringer for a good game to get the season started, played in fine spirit.
Milden look forward to facing our old friends Edwardstone next Sunday (5th May) as we play for the John Bailey Trophy. Please do come along and support us if you can in this memorial fixture, which is a 1330 start at Homefield Boxford.
Hunts County Bats Suffolk Cricket League Division 3
Horringer CC vs Milden CC
Milden CC 170-7 (40 overs)
Horringer CC 127 all out (32 overs)
Milden CC won by 43 runs
Milden braved the cold and rain on Sunday for the long drive to Ickworth Park for our first game of the season against newly-promoted Horringer. New skipper Cunningham won the toss, and (despite the overcast conditions) chose to bat in the absence of two members of the team, only to find Wilson and McIntosh duly meandering up the dirt track to the ground as he walked back to the pavilion…
Milden got off to a steady start in tricky conditions, putting on 15 before Smith (2) dragged the last ball of the fifth over onto his stumps. Roffey strode out at number three and looked in good touch before a mix-up with Cunningham sent him back to the hutch two overs later, run out for two.
With the score at 19-2 after the seventh over and Horringer's opening bowler Joseph starting to find his rhythm, Milden needed to steady the ship. Ward answered the call in style, playing watchfully and dispatching anything loose to the boundary. Horringer started to ring the changes with the bowling, but couldn't find an answer to Ward's powerful hitting, supported by Cunningham who rode his luck to a scrappy 45. The pair had put on 100 before Ward eventually departed in the 26th over, caught for a clinical 52 in an innings that included no less than five sixes and two fours. Cunningham's luck finally ran out three overs later as he was caught in the covers off a leading edge, leaving Wilson (13) and St Ledger (10) at the crease and the score at 131-4 with 11 overs to go.
Milden looked set for a good score as Wilson quickly got off the mark with some typically expansive drives; however the rate slowed when he had to retire injured having hit the ball into his knee. St Ledger, Leppard (11), Hayton (8*) and Archer (2*) ably saw out the remainder of the overs, and an audacious reverse sweep from Hayton off the last ball of the innings helped Milden to a solid total of 170-7 from their 40 overs, leaving Horringer a tough chase in bowler-friendly conditions.
Tea was taken, and Horringer put on a fine spread, including sausage rolls, scones, and the novel addition of hot dogs, a popular choice on a chilly April afternoon.
In the field, Milden opening pair Smith (8-2-28-4) and Hayton (10-3-26-3) started well and were unfortunate not to make early inroads as the ball found the edge time and time again, only to fly over the cordon or fall tantalisingly short. Smith finally made the breakthrough in the seventh over, claiming the wicket of E Spurling caught behind for six, before striking again in his next over to remove Rasagopal for 18, Archer pouching a looping chance at second slip. Hayton was soon amongst the wickets as well, producing an unplayable outswinging yorker to dismiss Chandrasekharan Nair, bowled for three in the 14th over.
With Smith and Hayton taking a well-deserved breather after seven overs each, McIntosh (4-0-21-2) and Robinson (5-0-30-1) entered the attack with immediate impact, Hayton taking a simple catch (after a bit of juggling) to remove Kumar for three in McIntosh's first over, before Robinson found the edge the next over to dismiss Limmer caught in the slips by Wilson for two. McIntosh struck again in the following over, B Spurling slapping a short one straight to Robinson in the covers, and Milden looked well in control with Horringer 50-6 from 17 overs.
Horringer's opening bowler Joseph was next to the crease at number eight, and together with Tasker set about rebuilding the innings. The pair played sensibly, pouncing on anything short or wide, and the scoreboard started to tick over again. Wilson (5-0-16-0) hobbled out of the slips to replace McIntosh in the 23rd over and bowled with good control, but was still struggling with his knee and unable to find his usual pace, and with the score starting to climb Milden turned to Hayton again to try to break the partnership.
Hayton was swiftly back up to speed, but Joseph initially proved equal to the task, some aggressive hitting bringing further boundaries for Horringer before an inspired decision to come round the wicket brought instant dividends; Joseph driving straight into the safe hands of Robinson at mid on from the first ball of Hayton's final over for 38. The 69 run partnership was broken, and another fearsome yorker dispatched Sebastian for a duck three balls later, leaving Horringer 119-8 in the 30th over.
Smith returned to the attack to replace Hayton and duly cleaned up the last two wickets, bowling Tasker for a well-fought 38 before Sibu nicked behind for a duck, ending Horringer's innings 43 runs short of the Milden total.
Keen to get out of the cold, both teams repaired to the comfort of Horringer Social Club for a well earned drink. Thanks to Horringer for a good game to get the season started, played in fine spirit.
Milden look forward to facing our old friends Edwardstone next Sunday (5th May) as we play for the John Bailey Trophy. Please do come along and support us if you can in this memorial fixture, which is a 1330 start at Homefield Boxford.
Sunday 10th June 2018
Hunts County League Division 3
Thurston 116 for 5
Milden 112 All Out
Milden lost by 5 wickets
Milden travelled over the A14 to Thurston to play against a team that we had not played in our recent history. TK met the Thurston skipper and lost the toss on a very green and damp looking wicket that had being cut and rolled earlier that morning.
The skies were over cast as Boris and Joe Smith opened the innings and Boris had no sooner put his pads on was taking them off as he was adjudged LBW for 0. Pat Humphries joined Smith but in the 5th over with the score on 6 Pat feathered one behind to the keeper and he was also back in the pavilion for 0. TK and Joe batted cautiously and started to nudge the ball around as both opening bowlers swung and seamed the ball about. However, Joe in an effort to get the runs going chopped one onto his stumps and he was back in the pavilion for 1 and the score in the 9th over 15 for 3.
New boy Hamish joined TK at the crease and the pair began to rebuild the innings, with Hamish stroking the ball around nicely and the scoreboard began to turn. TK also got in on the act as the pair started to put runs on the board and get a few boundaries. They managed to pass 50 but TK managed to hit one to backward point and was caught for 23 and the score 66 for 4.
Hamish and big Alex looked well in control as they continued to push the score along, Hamish playing some lovely shots and Alex hitting a few big boundaries, but Zahid was to depart for 16 when run out with a direct hit, the score on 98. Then Milden collapsed, adding only a handful of runs and losing the remaining 5 wickets in 2 overs, Leppard and Every for successive ducks, Hamish departed for 47 and Wilson and St Ledger added a six and four respectively and the innings closed on 112 in the 27th over.
The sun was well out now as the two teams took tea, an excellent spread of Tuna and cucumber, Cheese and Pickle, ham and tomato and egg sandwiches were laid out. Lots of savoury choices in the form of sausage rolls, cocktail sausages and scotch eggs, surrounded with crisps and finished off with cakes and fruit. Well done Thurston, 8 out of 10 for the egg sandwiches.
Milden took to the field and TK rallied the troops in the usual huddle, he reminded them of their ‘never give up’ attitude and Smith and Wilson came steaming in. The wicket had flattened right out but both bowlers probed away, but just bowling a bit too wide and Thurston raced to 30 off 5 overs. Tk was about to get the old shepard’s crook out and take both bowlers out but Wilson produced a terrific deliver which kissed the leg stump and clean bowled N. Mayhew. Smith was next in on the act as he clean bowled Sadler and Milden began to put the brakes on the Thurston innings, 44 for 2 off 10.
Looking for the next wicket, big Alex and Hamish took over the bowling and it was Zahid who struck in his first over, catching Ellis LBW. But Thurston hung on in and Sadler played resolutely with some terrific drives and Milden could not make any inroads, a couple of sharp chances went begging, Leppard replaced Zahid but he could not work his magic from last week’s hat trick heroics.
TK brought back Wilson and Smith and Smith bowled beautifully at Sadler and nearly got him again with a beautiful slower ball but he was set and blocked Smith out. Wilson managed to pick up another wicket, Bendall nicking one to Smith at slip who took a good catch near his ankles. But Thurston picked off the final four runs and won the game with 5 wickets in hand and 24 overs in the bank.
Tough day at the office, whilst we can say that we had the worst of the batting conditions, we were just looking for excuses, we did not score enough runs and batted poorly. Tis league will be competitive and there will be many twists and turns and Milden need to get re focused on the enxt game which is British Sugar the week after next.
The Mildeners retired to the local pub where Pat the Enforcement Tsar fined everyone, just because he can!! We shared a few beers in the sunshine and reminded ourselves that after all, we are a drinking club with a cricket problem.
#upthemeldes
Hunts County League Division 3
Thurston 116 for 5
Milden 112 All Out
Milden lost by 5 wickets
Milden travelled over the A14 to Thurston to play against a team that we had not played in our recent history. TK met the Thurston skipper and lost the toss on a very green and damp looking wicket that had being cut and rolled earlier that morning.
The skies were over cast as Boris and Joe Smith opened the innings and Boris had no sooner put his pads on was taking them off as he was adjudged LBW for 0. Pat Humphries joined Smith but in the 5th over with the score on 6 Pat feathered one behind to the keeper and he was also back in the pavilion for 0. TK and Joe batted cautiously and started to nudge the ball around as both opening bowlers swung and seamed the ball about. However, Joe in an effort to get the runs going chopped one onto his stumps and he was back in the pavilion for 1 and the score in the 9th over 15 for 3.
New boy Hamish joined TK at the crease and the pair began to rebuild the innings, with Hamish stroking the ball around nicely and the scoreboard began to turn. TK also got in on the act as the pair started to put runs on the board and get a few boundaries. They managed to pass 50 but TK managed to hit one to backward point and was caught for 23 and the score 66 for 4.
Hamish and big Alex looked well in control as they continued to push the score along, Hamish playing some lovely shots and Alex hitting a few big boundaries, but Zahid was to depart for 16 when run out with a direct hit, the score on 98. Then Milden collapsed, adding only a handful of runs and losing the remaining 5 wickets in 2 overs, Leppard and Every for successive ducks, Hamish departed for 47 and Wilson and St Ledger added a six and four respectively and the innings closed on 112 in the 27th over.
The sun was well out now as the two teams took tea, an excellent spread of Tuna and cucumber, Cheese and Pickle, ham and tomato and egg sandwiches were laid out. Lots of savoury choices in the form of sausage rolls, cocktail sausages and scotch eggs, surrounded with crisps and finished off with cakes and fruit. Well done Thurston, 8 out of 10 for the egg sandwiches.
Milden took to the field and TK rallied the troops in the usual huddle, he reminded them of their ‘never give up’ attitude and Smith and Wilson came steaming in. The wicket had flattened right out but both bowlers probed away, but just bowling a bit too wide and Thurston raced to 30 off 5 overs. Tk was about to get the old shepard’s crook out and take both bowlers out but Wilson produced a terrific deliver which kissed the leg stump and clean bowled N. Mayhew. Smith was next in on the act as he clean bowled Sadler and Milden began to put the brakes on the Thurston innings, 44 for 2 off 10.
Looking for the next wicket, big Alex and Hamish took over the bowling and it was Zahid who struck in his first over, catching Ellis LBW. But Thurston hung on in and Sadler played resolutely with some terrific drives and Milden could not make any inroads, a couple of sharp chances went begging, Leppard replaced Zahid but he could not work his magic from last week’s hat trick heroics.
TK brought back Wilson and Smith and Smith bowled beautifully at Sadler and nearly got him again with a beautiful slower ball but he was set and blocked Smith out. Wilson managed to pick up another wicket, Bendall nicking one to Smith at slip who took a good catch near his ankles. But Thurston picked off the final four runs and won the game with 5 wickets in hand and 24 overs in the bank.
Tough day at the office, whilst we can say that we had the worst of the batting conditions, we were just looking for excuses, we did not score enough runs and batted poorly. Tis league will be competitive and there will be many twists and turns and Milden need to get re focused on the enxt game which is British Sugar the week after next.
The Mildeners retired to the local pub where Pat the Enforcement Tsar fined everyone, just because he can!! We shared a few beers in the sunshine and reminded ourselves that after all, we are a drinking club with a cricket problem.
#upthemeldes
Sunday 3rd June 2018
Hunts County League Division 3
Milden 172 for 3
Worlington Academy 171 for 7
Milden won by 7 wickets
Milden welcomed Worlington Academy to the MCG this week, the ground was a picture, bathed in warm sunshine and the outfield and wicket looking magnificent. Andrew Simmons had prepared a belter of a wicket and TK on winning the toss was in two minds what to do when he won the toss, a bowl first was his call in the end.
Milden had delved deep into the squad this week with Mark St Ledger and Jay Phillips making their first games of the season and Mackintosh making his Milden debut. Colin Humphrey and Joe Smith opened the bowling and TK’s decision to bowl first looked a good one as the ball swung and seamed about. A couple of chances went begging when both Smith and Humphrey had difficult chances shelled in the slips. But Worlington were kept in check with the run rate creeping to just over 3 an over. Humphrey and Smith plugged away and it was Humphery who picked up the first wicket when opener A.Young gloving a ball down leg side and TK took a fine one handed catch behind the stumps.
Both opening bowlers continued to beat the bat and did not have much luck until Smith in his final over had T Marston try and drive him again, only for Oli Bantavala to take a smart catch at mid on. TK rotated the bowlers at the drinks break, Worlington 76 for 2, Zahid and Wilson now taking over the bowling duties. Both started well, swinging the ball around and Zahid in his second over picked up a wicket when another frustrated drive was pouched by the ever dependable Mark St Ledger at mid off. Milden searched for another wicket but with the sun out and Worlington batsmen settled, wickets were hard to come by, a few loose deliveries were dispatched and a couple of tough chances dropped, but Milden dug in as the run rate began to go up and Worlington looked on for a 200+ score. TK turned to Archer to cast a spell but he could not get into his rhythm and was unlucky not to get a wicket when TK was not quick enough with the gloves behind the stumps as Archer had deceived the batsmen well.
Worlington were now well settled and TK went to the experienced Leppard who had made magic with childcare to get to the game. You would not have known it was Nicks first game as he dropped the ball on a great length, swinging it prestigiously. Wilson was brought back down the hill and bowled with real pace and guile. Nick picked up his first wicket, clean bowling Williams with a great delivery, next over Wilson grabbed the wicket of Baugh when he tried to pull a shorter one and TK snaffled the skier behind the stumps, Worlington 163 for 5.
What happened next was a demonstration of line and length bowling with a bit of swing magic, Leppard bamboozled the Worlington batsmen with his first three deliveries, swinging and seaming the ball away, he then bowled Bowes for 5, following ball he bowled Clarke for 0 and with the final ball of the innings, he had Howard caught well by Mackintosh at backward square leg to pick up his hatrick, only the second time this has been achieved in Milden’s recent history, Alex Zahid the other bowler to achieve this.
Some terrific bowling and fielding from Milden as a team, game was getting away from us but they put the brakes on and Worlington finished on 171 for 8.
Mrs Konopka was in charge of tea this week, she had got fed up of TK trying to taste the egg sandwich mixture or find out her secret (he was later fined for this) but what a tea she put on. With clearly labelled cards and fresh flowers on the gingham table cloth, the table groaned under weight of food. Lots of sandwiches were laid on, egg and cress, tuna and cucumber, Ham and mustard and cheese and pickle. Warm chipolatas nestled amongst the pork pies which in turn were surrounded by quiches, crisps and other savoury goodies. For afters Mrs K had gone to town, making home made scones with either strawberry or raspberry jam, cream to boot too. Home made brownies with a dusting of icing sugar had the players and supporters in a bloated tea heaven. Lots of lovely comments about tea from both sides, but what about the egg sandwiches skip? ‘9.5 out of 10 for me’ Top effort Mrs K.
With full bellies and warm sunshine bathing the ground, Milden went to bat and made the Worlington bowlers toil in the sunshine, however, Smith was well caught for 1 in the 7th over when trying to cut the ball and TK joined Phillips at the crease and both played very watchfully with the score 15 for 1. TK played a more checked innings in supporting Phillips who looked at his imperious best stroking the ball around and solid as ever in defence. The pair saw off the opening bowlers and kept the run rate near 4 an over as they chased down the Worlington total. The pair ran well and continued to absorb the bowling as Worlington rotated their attack to try and get them out, eventually TK was dismissed when trying to turn a shot down leg side, top edged and was caught at square leg, the score of 107 in the 24th over and a good stand of 92 between them.
Colin Humphrey joined Phillips and supported him really well as the score ticked on, he played a couple of lovely shots and would of got more value from them if the outfield was a bit quicker, but he departed for 3, clean bowled. Alex Zahid strode to the crease having had a pep talk from TK and I believe Mrs K, it seemed to have worked, he played watchfully and with respect, until Worlington strayed from line or length and Zulu started to smash the ball around the ground, 2 were lost in total, (the third recovered from the pond in the car park) with the Watson’s house being hit, Joe Smiths car in the car park and a massive six into Steve Morleys field. Phillips at the other end of the wicket welcomed the rest as he leant on his bat and watched Zahid take the game to Worlington.
In the 26th over the score stood at 113 for 2, by the close of the game in the 32nd over it was 172 with Zahid on 46 not out and Phillips on an excellent 58, a very good Milden win.
Man of the match was a tough call, would TK give it to his wife for the egg sandwiches, or to Leppard for his excellent hat trick, Zahid was in with a shout with a devastating spell of batting, but this week it has to go to Jay Phillips, he controlled the pace of the innings, provided confidence to the other batsmen. However, some good performances all round really, Smith unlucky not to get more wickets, Bantavala and St Ledger taking some good catches and going quietly about their business and Wilson just bowling quickly and with some great skill.
Milden retired to the Edwardstone White Horse and a few of the Worlington players came to the pub which was nice, first team to have a beer with us at home after the game. Fines were dished out by Colin Humphrey and a few jugs bought by Leppard and Phillips for their achievements. We also had to say cheerio to Ben Abbott who was leaving the White Horse on Sunday, we need to put on record a big thank you to him, Mick and #teamhorse for all their support of our small club, it will always be appreciated.
Next week the Medles travel to Thurston, never played them before so looking forward to a new experience. All support very welcome, forecast looks good.
#upthemeldes
Hunts County League Division 3
Milden 172 for 3
Worlington Academy 171 for 7
Milden won by 7 wickets
Milden welcomed Worlington Academy to the MCG this week, the ground was a picture, bathed in warm sunshine and the outfield and wicket looking magnificent. Andrew Simmons had prepared a belter of a wicket and TK on winning the toss was in two minds what to do when he won the toss, a bowl first was his call in the end.
Milden had delved deep into the squad this week with Mark St Ledger and Jay Phillips making their first games of the season and Mackintosh making his Milden debut. Colin Humphrey and Joe Smith opened the bowling and TK’s decision to bowl first looked a good one as the ball swung and seamed about. A couple of chances went begging when both Smith and Humphrey had difficult chances shelled in the slips. But Worlington were kept in check with the run rate creeping to just over 3 an over. Humphrey and Smith plugged away and it was Humphery who picked up the first wicket when opener A.Young gloving a ball down leg side and TK took a fine one handed catch behind the stumps.
Both opening bowlers continued to beat the bat and did not have much luck until Smith in his final over had T Marston try and drive him again, only for Oli Bantavala to take a smart catch at mid on. TK rotated the bowlers at the drinks break, Worlington 76 for 2, Zahid and Wilson now taking over the bowling duties. Both started well, swinging the ball around and Zahid in his second over picked up a wicket when another frustrated drive was pouched by the ever dependable Mark St Ledger at mid off. Milden searched for another wicket but with the sun out and Worlington batsmen settled, wickets were hard to come by, a few loose deliveries were dispatched and a couple of tough chances dropped, but Milden dug in as the run rate began to go up and Worlington looked on for a 200+ score. TK turned to Archer to cast a spell but he could not get into his rhythm and was unlucky not to get a wicket when TK was not quick enough with the gloves behind the stumps as Archer had deceived the batsmen well.
Worlington were now well settled and TK went to the experienced Leppard who had made magic with childcare to get to the game. You would not have known it was Nicks first game as he dropped the ball on a great length, swinging it prestigiously. Wilson was brought back down the hill and bowled with real pace and guile. Nick picked up his first wicket, clean bowling Williams with a great delivery, next over Wilson grabbed the wicket of Baugh when he tried to pull a shorter one and TK snaffled the skier behind the stumps, Worlington 163 for 5.
What happened next was a demonstration of line and length bowling with a bit of swing magic, Leppard bamboozled the Worlington batsmen with his first three deliveries, swinging and seaming the ball away, he then bowled Bowes for 5, following ball he bowled Clarke for 0 and with the final ball of the innings, he had Howard caught well by Mackintosh at backward square leg to pick up his hatrick, only the second time this has been achieved in Milden’s recent history, Alex Zahid the other bowler to achieve this.
Some terrific bowling and fielding from Milden as a team, game was getting away from us but they put the brakes on and Worlington finished on 171 for 8.
Mrs Konopka was in charge of tea this week, she had got fed up of TK trying to taste the egg sandwich mixture or find out her secret (he was later fined for this) but what a tea she put on. With clearly labelled cards and fresh flowers on the gingham table cloth, the table groaned under weight of food. Lots of sandwiches were laid on, egg and cress, tuna and cucumber, Ham and mustard and cheese and pickle. Warm chipolatas nestled amongst the pork pies which in turn were surrounded by quiches, crisps and other savoury goodies. For afters Mrs K had gone to town, making home made scones with either strawberry or raspberry jam, cream to boot too. Home made brownies with a dusting of icing sugar had the players and supporters in a bloated tea heaven. Lots of lovely comments about tea from both sides, but what about the egg sandwiches skip? ‘9.5 out of 10 for me’ Top effort Mrs K.
With full bellies and warm sunshine bathing the ground, Milden went to bat and made the Worlington bowlers toil in the sunshine, however, Smith was well caught for 1 in the 7th over when trying to cut the ball and TK joined Phillips at the crease and both played very watchfully with the score 15 for 1. TK played a more checked innings in supporting Phillips who looked at his imperious best stroking the ball around and solid as ever in defence. The pair saw off the opening bowlers and kept the run rate near 4 an over as they chased down the Worlington total. The pair ran well and continued to absorb the bowling as Worlington rotated their attack to try and get them out, eventually TK was dismissed when trying to turn a shot down leg side, top edged and was caught at square leg, the score of 107 in the 24th over and a good stand of 92 between them.
Colin Humphrey joined Phillips and supported him really well as the score ticked on, he played a couple of lovely shots and would of got more value from them if the outfield was a bit quicker, but he departed for 3, clean bowled. Alex Zahid strode to the crease having had a pep talk from TK and I believe Mrs K, it seemed to have worked, he played watchfully and with respect, until Worlington strayed from line or length and Zulu started to smash the ball around the ground, 2 were lost in total, (the third recovered from the pond in the car park) with the Watson’s house being hit, Joe Smiths car in the car park and a massive six into Steve Morleys field. Phillips at the other end of the wicket welcomed the rest as he leant on his bat and watched Zahid take the game to Worlington.
In the 26th over the score stood at 113 for 2, by the close of the game in the 32nd over it was 172 with Zahid on 46 not out and Phillips on an excellent 58, a very good Milden win.
Man of the match was a tough call, would TK give it to his wife for the egg sandwiches, or to Leppard for his excellent hat trick, Zahid was in with a shout with a devastating spell of batting, but this week it has to go to Jay Phillips, he controlled the pace of the innings, provided confidence to the other batsmen. However, some good performances all round really, Smith unlucky not to get more wickets, Bantavala and St Ledger taking some good catches and going quietly about their business and Wilson just bowling quickly and with some great skill.
Milden retired to the Edwardstone White Horse and a few of the Worlington players came to the pub which was nice, first team to have a beer with us at home after the game. Fines were dished out by Colin Humphrey and a few jugs bought by Leppard and Phillips for their achievements. We also had to say cheerio to Ben Abbott who was leaving the White Horse on Sunday, we need to put on record a big thank you to him, Mick and #teamhorse for all their support of our small club, it will always be appreciated.
Next week the Medles travel to Thurston, never played them before so looking forward to a new experience. All support very welcome, forecast looks good.
#upthemeldes
Sunday 20th May 2018
Hunts County League Division 3
Milden 156 for 5
Earl Stonham 96 All Out
The MCG was bathed in warm sunshine as Milden welcomed Earl Stonham for this Hunt County Division 3 fixture. Milden had faced Earl Stonham last year in Division 4 and both promoted sides knew each other well. TK walked out to the middle with Stonham captain Luke Edgar and won the toss and had not hesitation in batting first on a good wicket prepared by Alan Every.
Boris and Joe Smith opened the innings in cautious fashion as Stonham bowled some tight lines but they soon had the scoreboard ticking over albeit at a slow rate. Both Smith and Boris played watchfully with no chances given whilst the Stonham players kept the energy in the field and the batsmen on their toes. Boris was first to depart when he was run out when hesitating over a quick single departing for 17 with the score on 42 in the 17th over. Pat Humphries joined Smith but he was soon back in the hutch for 0 when he was adjudged LBW.
TK joined Smith and with Stonham continuing to bowl tightly, tried to push the rate along. TK in particular tried to accelerate the innings with a big 6 into the Watsons but he did not quite commit to another ball tossed up by Stowe and was caught on the boundary for 13. Milden really began to wobble when Zahid carelessly went for a big shot and was well caught on the boundary for 1 and Bantavala went first ball chipping when into the covers for a first ball duck. Milden were 58 for 5 in the 23rd over and starting down the barrel of a quick finish.
Smith and Harding dug in and started to rebuild the innings and with some fine shot selection and strokes but were kept in check by some great Stonham fielding. But the run rate continued to tick over at 4 an over the scoreboard turned as the pair played really well in setting a total for Milden to defend. The Stonham bowlers began to tire and Smith and the fluent Harding began to find the gaps as boundaries began to flow and so did the runs. Smith got to his 50 with a fine shot and he began to open up as Milden went from 99 in the 35th over to finish on 156 for 5, with Smith 70 not out and Harding on an excellent 37 not out. Milden probably 40 runs short of a competitive total.
Tea was taken in the sunshine and this week it was Alan Every who put his hand up, I think that he did the shopping as Mrs Every and his girlfriend Robyn made enough tea for both teams and all the supporters !! A real selection of Chicken salad, ham, cheese and of course egg sandwiches were surrounded by quiche, pork pies and cocktail sausages, with plenty of cake to follow. There was even a birthday cake for Nick Leppard and a rendition of ‘Happy Birthday’ was belted out for the Mildener. Great Effort Mrs E and Robyn, egg sandwiches were excellent, 8 out of 10.
With 156 a below par total, TK got the players into a huddle and spelled out in his usual Charlotte Church way that nothing less than 110% effort, focus and belief would result in Milden getting anything out of the game. With Joe in bits after his 40 over stint with the bat, TK opened with Greg Wilson, TK pulling rank and bowling down the hill. This did not phase the young Grenadian as he tore in up the slope following TK’s first over and clean bowled JA Dye with a peach of a delivery. TK was soon in the wickets as the following over he had E Player well caught behind the stumps when he nicked one to Harding. Milden really had their tails up when again, Wilson, steaming in up the slope magnificently clean bowled the dangerous Macrows, clipping the top of his off stump and really get the fielding sides tails up, mobbed by his team mates and Earl Stonham 11 for 3 off 4 overs.
Following the flurry of wickets, Stonham settled, led by skipper Edgar and supported by Fenning as the pair rebuilt the innings and looked comfortable at the crease, although Wilson still troubled them and followed up with some icy glares down the wicket, priceless.
TK changed the field but needed to dislodge the pair, he turned to big Alex Zahid and Matt Archer to try and get a wicket and a wicket he got in his 3rd over, Edgar brilliantly bowled by the big fella. Archer bowled with his usual control and lines but Fenning was still the danger man, Zahid picked him up when he was caught and Milden felt they had a chance, Stonham 76 for 5 in the 21st. Matt Archer came to the party when a well flighted delivery was nicked by Pope and Leppard snaffled it in the slips, 76 for 6. Girryappa and Lewis at the crease showed resistance and both could bat, but Milden maintained the pressure, drying up the boundaries and it was Zahid who struck again when Girryappa flashed at a wide one and TK gobbled it up at first slip with a good catch.
Earl Stonham were starting to feel the pressure as new batsmen Jo Dye looked to move the score along, but Zahid was bowling beautifully and he and TK combined again with the latter pouching a more difficult catch at slip and Milden were into them. Zahid then picked up his Michelle when he had A Stowe clean bowled off his last ball of his ten over spell to finish on 5 for 22, a brilliant spell from the big man.
Greg Wilson replaced Zahid from the top end and Smith took over from Archer as Milden tried to finish the game off, Lewis stood resolute but saw his batting partners come and go and it was Smith that finished the game off when he bowled T Edgar for 0 and Earl Stonham all out for 96. A great bowling and fielding performance from Milden, Bantavala, Every, Leppard and Humphries supporting really well in the field, Harding keeping cleanly as always but the bowlers came to the party this week, Archer 1 for 20 off his 5, Wilson, 3 for 34 off his 8, Smith 5 for 1 off 4 and TK 1 for 12 off his 5.
As the Meldes left the field, they followed up with a huddle and TK thanked them for all their efforts and pointed out that his job is easy in the field when his players give everything and never know when they are beaten. Earl Stonham are a good cricket team and whilst we won by 60 odd runs, that was due to the pure effort and skill of the players.
The Meldes were clapped off by our supporters, great to see St Ledge, Hayton and Pipe supporting us and thanks to Tabs who did not have a game at Hadleigh and came and scored for us. We really have a terrific team spirit at our club and whilst TK has kittens with some of the performances, it is a privilege to captain you.
No game over the Bank Holiday then we are home again to Worlington, keep an eye out on the facebook/website and Instagram pages.
Milden retired to the White Horse where again we were excellently looked after by Ben Abbot, Beef and Salad sandwiches were accompanied by roast potatoes. Enforcement Tsar Humphries held court and fines were dished out for all manner of things and a few beers had amongst friends.
#UPTHEMELDES
Hunts County League Division 3
Milden 156 for 5
Earl Stonham 96 All Out
The MCG was bathed in warm sunshine as Milden welcomed Earl Stonham for this Hunt County Division 3 fixture. Milden had faced Earl Stonham last year in Division 4 and both promoted sides knew each other well. TK walked out to the middle with Stonham captain Luke Edgar and won the toss and had not hesitation in batting first on a good wicket prepared by Alan Every.
Boris and Joe Smith opened the innings in cautious fashion as Stonham bowled some tight lines but they soon had the scoreboard ticking over albeit at a slow rate. Both Smith and Boris played watchfully with no chances given whilst the Stonham players kept the energy in the field and the batsmen on their toes. Boris was first to depart when he was run out when hesitating over a quick single departing for 17 with the score on 42 in the 17th over. Pat Humphries joined Smith but he was soon back in the hutch for 0 when he was adjudged LBW.
TK joined Smith and with Stonham continuing to bowl tightly, tried to push the rate along. TK in particular tried to accelerate the innings with a big 6 into the Watsons but he did not quite commit to another ball tossed up by Stowe and was caught on the boundary for 13. Milden really began to wobble when Zahid carelessly went for a big shot and was well caught on the boundary for 1 and Bantavala went first ball chipping when into the covers for a first ball duck. Milden were 58 for 5 in the 23rd over and starting down the barrel of a quick finish.
Smith and Harding dug in and started to rebuild the innings and with some fine shot selection and strokes but were kept in check by some great Stonham fielding. But the run rate continued to tick over at 4 an over the scoreboard turned as the pair played really well in setting a total for Milden to defend. The Stonham bowlers began to tire and Smith and the fluent Harding began to find the gaps as boundaries began to flow and so did the runs. Smith got to his 50 with a fine shot and he began to open up as Milden went from 99 in the 35th over to finish on 156 for 5, with Smith 70 not out and Harding on an excellent 37 not out. Milden probably 40 runs short of a competitive total.
Tea was taken in the sunshine and this week it was Alan Every who put his hand up, I think that he did the shopping as Mrs Every and his girlfriend Robyn made enough tea for both teams and all the supporters !! A real selection of Chicken salad, ham, cheese and of course egg sandwiches were surrounded by quiche, pork pies and cocktail sausages, with plenty of cake to follow. There was even a birthday cake for Nick Leppard and a rendition of ‘Happy Birthday’ was belted out for the Mildener. Great Effort Mrs E and Robyn, egg sandwiches were excellent, 8 out of 10.
With 156 a below par total, TK got the players into a huddle and spelled out in his usual Charlotte Church way that nothing less than 110% effort, focus and belief would result in Milden getting anything out of the game. With Joe in bits after his 40 over stint with the bat, TK opened with Greg Wilson, TK pulling rank and bowling down the hill. This did not phase the young Grenadian as he tore in up the slope following TK’s first over and clean bowled JA Dye with a peach of a delivery. TK was soon in the wickets as the following over he had E Player well caught behind the stumps when he nicked one to Harding. Milden really had their tails up when again, Wilson, steaming in up the slope magnificently clean bowled the dangerous Macrows, clipping the top of his off stump and really get the fielding sides tails up, mobbed by his team mates and Earl Stonham 11 for 3 off 4 overs.
Following the flurry of wickets, Stonham settled, led by skipper Edgar and supported by Fenning as the pair rebuilt the innings and looked comfortable at the crease, although Wilson still troubled them and followed up with some icy glares down the wicket, priceless.
TK changed the field but needed to dislodge the pair, he turned to big Alex Zahid and Matt Archer to try and get a wicket and a wicket he got in his 3rd over, Edgar brilliantly bowled by the big fella. Archer bowled with his usual control and lines but Fenning was still the danger man, Zahid picked him up when he was caught and Milden felt they had a chance, Stonham 76 for 5 in the 21st. Matt Archer came to the party when a well flighted delivery was nicked by Pope and Leppard snaffled it in the slips, 76 for 6. Girryappa and Lewis at the crease showed resistance and both could bat, but Milden maintained the pressure, drying up the boundaries and it was Zahid who struck again when Girryappa flashed at a wide one and TK gobbled it up at first slip with a good catch.
Earl Stonham were starting to feel the pressure as new batsmen Jo Dye looked to move the score along, but Zahid was bowling beautifully and he and TK combined again with the latter pouching a more difficult catch at slip and Milden were into them. Zahid then picked up his Michelle when he had A Stowe clean bowled off his last ball of his ten over spell to finish on 5 for 22, a brilliant spell from the big man.
Greg Wilson replaced Zahid from the top end and Smith took over from Archer as Milden tried to finish the game off, Lewis stood resolute but saw his batting partners come and go and it was Smith that finished the game off when he bowled T Edgar for 0 and Earl Stonham all out for 96. A great bowling and fielding performance from Milden, Bantavala, Every, Leppard and Humphries supporting really well in the field, Harding keeping cleanly as always but the bowlers came to the party this week, Archer 1 for 20 off his 5, Wilson, 3 for 34 off his 8, Smith 5 for 1 off 4 and TK 1 for 12 off his 5.
As the Meldes left the field, they followed up with a huddle and TK thanked them for all their efforts and pointed out that his job is easy in the field when his players give everything and never know when they are beaten. Earl Stonham are a good cricket team and whilst we won by 60 odd runs, that was due to the pure effort and skill of the players.
The Meldes were clapped off by our supporters, great to see St Ledge, Hayton and Pipe supporting us and thanks to Tabs who did not have a game at Hadleigh and came and scored for us. We really have a terrific team spirit at our club and whilst TK has kittens with some of the performances, it is a privilege to captain you.
No game over the Bank Holiday then we are home again to Worlington, keep an eye out on the facebook/website and Instagram pages.
Milden retired to the White Horse where again we were excellently looked after by Ben Abbot, Beef and Salad sandwiches were accompanied by roast potatoes. Enforcement Tsar Humphries held court and fines were dished out for all manner of things and a few beers had amongst friends.
#UPTHEMELDES
Hunts County League Division 3
Milden 178 for 9
Hadleigh Academy 144 All out
Milden welcomed our close neighbours Hadleigh to the MCG on a warm and sunny Sunday afternoon. The previous night’s torrential rain had not effected the pitch due to the wonderful and excellent effort of Andrew Simmons in prepping and then covering the wicket in order to get the game on. The ground was a picture as TK and Buster Tampion from Hadleigh tossed up and Buster calling correctly stuck Milden into bat.
Sumo and Boris strode out and watched carefully as Hadleigh bowled some very tight lines and in particular the veteran Buster Tampion, bowled maiden after maiden till he had Simmons caught trying to score. Boris and Pat then continued to watch carefully as tight bowling and good field placement kept the score to 19 after 13 overs. However, Pat began to impose himself and the scoreboard ticked over and stood at 69 for 1 in the 23rd over until Boris was finally removed by S Tampion, clean bowled for 27.
Colin Humphries came to the crease and he and Pat began to make the scoreboard revolve a little faster as they tucked into more wayward Hadleigh bowling until Colin was bowled for 15. Zahid came and went for 0 and then the rest of the order was supporting Humphries who had spread the Hadleigh field and passed his 50 as the score stood at 134 in the 34th over. Oli supported Pat well until he was bowled for 9 and then TK was bowled for 3 playing onto his stumps. However, the score really kept going thanks to Pat until he was stumped for 80 and Milden were on 152 for 7. Smith and Harding kept the runs flowing, Harding scoring a quick fire and valuable 14 not out at the end of the innings to leave Milden on 178 for 9. Not a bad effort but 30 more runs would of felt a better score.
Tea was taken and Zahid was Master Chef this week and he did not let the side down, egg sandwiches with cress were proudly displayed on the table joined by a selection of ham, cheese sandwiches and some delicate crackers with cream cheese and salmon. Mini scotch eggs, sausage rolls and pizza completed the savoury selection but cakes soon followed, all washed down with tea and squash. Marvellous effort and 8 out of 10 for the egg sandwiches.
Milden took to the field and in their usual huddle, TK spelled out some home truths about standards and effort required to compete in Division 3. TK ran down the hill and soon had the ball hooping about with Smith steaming up the slope. The wicket had flattened out and was playing well as Hadleigh pounced on anything loose from the opening pair, they were on 13 in the 5th over when TK made the breakthrough swinging a full length delivery which T Locke had a waft at and Harding pounced on the nick behind the stumps. Smith bowled with control and got the ball to do a bit but TK struck again, clean bowling the classy looking Morrin with a swinging Yorker and removing off stump. TK and Smith wheeled away keeping the score down till Wilson was introduced down the slope and the young Grenadian bowled with pace and control at the now settled Hadleigh batsmen in tandem with Smith who still could not make the breakthrough but neither did he go for many.
Wilson was soon into the wickets having Abdul brilliantly caught by Zahid at second slip as Hadleigh looked like settling. The fielders were really supporting the bowlers with Simmons and Boris diving around stopping various drives and pulls and Hadleigh’s Colcomb looked in terrific nick but batsmen fell around him as Daniels was caught again off the bowling of Wilson and Hadleigh were 63 for 4 after 20 overs. Smith finished his spell 0 for 32 off his 10 and Humphreys was introduced into the attack and was straight into the mix having Buttley caught behind and Hadleigh were in trouble. Tabs strode to the crease and was welcomed by a bouncer first ball but he supported Colcomb who continued to score.
However, needing to force the run rate, Tabs played on to a Humphries delivery and Hadleigh were 6 down. The new batsmen decided to take on Humphries hitting a few boundaries as he desperately tried to get them out, but it was Wilson who made the key breakthrough, nipping one away from Colcomb who was on 55 and clipping the top of off stump, Wilson was mobbed by his team mates.
Wilson finished his excellent spell with 3 wickets off 10 overs for 21 runs, making an excellent home debut. TK replaced Wilson from the top end and Hadleigh still were chasing the runs down,with S and O Tampion working well in tandem until TK clean bowled O Tampion for 5. Humphries did not have the luck and was replaced by Matt Archer who bowled with real control and brilliant flight as Milden looked to finish the game off as Hadleigh were now on 124 with 5 overs to go. It was Archer who frustrated the Hadleigh batsmen with some deceiving flight and he had Levitt clean bowled and then had skipper Tampion soon back in the hutch with a LBW decision given in his favour to close the innings for Hadleigh, leaving S Tampion on 31 not out.
So first win of the season for Milden in a tightly contested game that swung one way then the next, really enjoyable but played in a friendly and competitive way.
Man of the match was a close decision, Andrew Simmons for all his hard work in getting the game on deserves a huge round of applause. TK bowled well with 3 wickets, Smith tightly but with no reward, Greg Wilson with his excellent spell which resulted in 3 for 21, but Pat Humphries gets it for his excellent 80 runs which helped give us a chance.
Milden retired to the Edwardstone White Horse where Ben Abbott laid on his usual good spread, this week it was pizza, sausages and roast potatoes, washed down with a few beers. Pat as enforcement Tszar was in full effect and fines were dished out for all manner of things.
Next week Milden are at home to Earl Stonham in another tough game, all support very welcome.
#UPTHEMELDES
Milden 178 for 9
Hadleigh Academy 144 All out
Milden welcomed our close neighbours Hadleigh to the MCG on a warm and sunny Sunday afternoon. The previous night’s torrential rain had not effected the pitch due to the wonderful and excellent effort of Andrew Simmons in prepping and then covering the wicket in order to get the game on. The ground was a picture as TK and Buster Tampion from Hadleigh tossed up and Buster calling correctly stuck Milden into bat.
Sumo and Boris strode out and watched carefully as Hadleigh bowled some very tight lines and in particular the veteran Buster Tampion, bowled maiden after maiden till he had Simmons caught trying to score. Boris and Pat then continued to watch carefully as tight bowling and good field placement kept the score to 19 after 13 overs. However, Pat began to impose himself and the scoreboard ticked over and stood at 69 for 1 in the 23rd over until Boris was finally removed by S Tampion, clean bowled for 27.
Colin Humphries came to the crease and he and Pat began to make the scoreboard revolve a little faster as they tucked into more wayward Hadleigh bowling until Colin was bowled for 15. Zahid came and went for 0 and then the rest of the order was supporting Humphries who had spread the Hadleigh field and passed his 50 as the score stood at 134 in the 34th over. Oli supported Pat well until he was bowled for 9 and then TK was bowled for 3 playing onto his stumps. However, the score really kept going thanks to Pat until he was stumped for 80 and Milden were on 152 for 7. Smith and Harding kept the runs flowing, Harding scoring a quick fire and valuable 14 not out at the end of the innings to leave Milden on 178 for 9. Not a bad effort but 30 more runs would of felt a better score.
Tea was taken and Zahid was Master Chef this week and he did not let the side down, egg sandwiches with cress were proudly displayed on the table joined by a selection of ham, cheese sandwiches and some delicate crackers with cream cheese and salmon. Mini scotch eggs, sausage rolls and pizza completed the savoury selection but cakes soon followed, all washed down with tea and squash. Marvellous effort and 8 out of 10 for the egg sandwiches.
Milden took to the field and in their usual huddle, TK spelled out some home truths about standards and effort required to compete in Division 3. TK ran down the hill and soon had the ball hooping about with Smith steaming up the slope. The wicket had flattened out and was playing well as Hadleigh pounced on anything loose from the opening pair, they were on 13 in the 5th over when TK made the breakthrough swinging a full length delivery which T Locke had a waft at and Harding pounced on the nick behind the stumps. Smith bowled with control and got the ball to do a bit but TK struck again, clean bowling the classy looking Morrin with a swinging Yorker and removing off stump. TK and Smith wheeled away keeping the score down till Wilson was introduced down the slope and the young Grenadian bowled with pace and control at the now settled Hadleigh batsmen in tandem with Smith who still could not make the breakthrough but neither did he go for many.
Wilson was soon into the wickets having Abdul brilliantly caught by Zahid at second slip as Hadleigh looked like settling. The fielders were really supporting the bowlers with Simmons and Boris diving around stopping various drives and pulls and Hadleigh’s Colcomb looked in terrific nick but batsmen fell around him as Daniels was caught again off the bowling of Wilson and Hadleigh were 63 for 4 after 20 overs. Smith finished his spell 0 for 32 off his 10 and Humphreys was introduced into the attack and was straight into the mix having Buttley caught behind and Hadleigh were in trouble. Tabs strode to the crease and was welcomed by a bouncer first ball but he supported Colcomb who continued to score.
However, needing to force the run rate, Tabs played on to a Humphries delivery and Hadleigh were 6 down. The new batsmen decided to take on Humphries hitting a few boundaries as he desperately tried to get them out, but it was Wilson who made the key breakthrough, nipping one away from Colcomb who was on 55 and clipping the top of off stump, Wilson was mobbed by his team mates.
Wilson finished his excellent spell with 3 wickets off 10 overs for 21 runs, making an excellent home debut. TK replaced Wilson from the top end and Hadleigh still were chasing the runs down,with S and O Tampion working well in tandem until TK clean bowled O Tampion for 5. Humphries did not have the luck and was replaced by Matt Archer who bowled with real control and brilliant flight as Milden looked to finish the game off as Hadleigh were now on 124 with 5 overs to go. It was Archer who frustrated the Hadleigh batsmen with some deceiving flight and he had Levitt clean bowled and then had skipper Tampion soon back in the hutch with a LBW decision given in his favour to close the innings for Hadleigh, leaving S Tampion on 31 not out.
So first win of the season for Milden in a tightly contested game that swung one way then the next, really enjoyable but played in a friendly and competitive way.
Man of the match was a close decision, Andrew Simmons for all his hard work in getting the game on deserves a huge round of applause. TK bowled well with 3 wickets, Smith tightly but with no reward, Greg Wilson with his excellent spell which resulted in 3 for 21, but Pat Humphries gets it for his excellent 80 runs which helped give us a chance.
Milden retired to the Edwardstone White Horse where Ben Abbott laid on his usual good spread, this week it was pizza, sausages and roast potatoes, washed down with a few beers. Pat as enforcement Tszar was in full effect and fines were dished out for all manner of things.
Next week Milden are at home to Earl Stonham in another tough game, all support very welcome.
#UPTHEMELDES
2018 Season Division 3
Lakenheath 2nd XI 282 for 3
Milden CC 212 All Out
Milden travelled to our friends at Lakenheath on Sunday to kick start their Division 3 campaign following the postponement of their previous fixture against Hartest due to the ground being un-playable. Lakenheath had done everything they could to get the fixture on and when TK rolled up for the toss with the now famous Suffolk bat maker Ed Garrard, he decided to bowl on a firm but relatively green early season pitch. The weather was more akin to staying in doors in front of a fire with the temperature topping out at a maximum of 9 degrees.
Hayton and Smith opened the bowling but soon Milden realised that this pitch was a very decent one with no swing or seam movement. The opening pair of Pallant and Palmer tucked into anything short or wide and the scoreboard began to rotate. After 9 overs Lakenheath were going at 5 an over and making a good start and Hayton and Smith could not find a consistent line or length to apply some pressure. TK behind the stumps soon rotated the bowling with debutant Greg Wilson and Zahid taken up the mantle, with some tidy overs, the runs soon flowed again as Milden were unable to stem the runs and Lakenheath were soon past the 100 mark and the runs continued to flow.
The Lakenheath openers put on a stand of 193 which was eventually broken by Matt Archer who came on and provided some control with some excellent bowling, deceiving Pallant with the flight and TK whipping off the bails to claim Milden’s first scalp. Humphreys was introduced but he could not find the breakthrough and the runs continued to accumulate.
The Milden bowlers were rotated and Smith and Wilson were brought back and eventually Smith claimed the prize wicket of Palmer with Humphries taking a good catch at mid on, great knock by the young lad with 138. Greg Wilson picked up another wicket with Humphries again snaffling another catch to remove M.Milner but Milden were unable to make any in roads into the Lakenheath batsmen with then finishing with a formidable 282 for 3.
Tea was taken in the new pavilion extension and everyone went for the hot tea first, frozen solid by the unseasonal weather. Milden were greeted by a terrific spread of sandwiches and Lakenheath had obviously read our previous match reports and plenty of egg sandwiches were laid on, accompanied by cheese and pickle, tuna and ham, but TK never got past the egg ones. Chicken nuggets, cocktail sausages and sausage rolls joined the line up alongside a selection of sweet treats. Very easy to get a cricket tea wrong, hard to get it right, Lakenheath did the latter, 8 out of 10 for the egg sandwiches, well done.
Milden went out to bat with no other thought than chasing down the 282 they needed to win. Sumo and Boris went out to bat, but Lakenheath decided to take the pace off the ball with a couple of medium pacers in Garrard and Starr, but accurate bowling curtailed the run chase early doors. Mountain to climb after 7 over with only 9 on the board. But Sumo and Boris ran well but Sumes was bowled for 2 and Boris soon followed for 11 with a smart catch at mid-wicket. Humphries took on the mantle with some fine shots, well supported by Humphrey and the scoreboard ticked over, still behind the run rate but making progress. Pat was bowled for a decent 29 when he misjudged one as did our overseas player Colin Humphrey who was sent back across the River Severn for 11.
Zulu came to the crease and partnered with new boy Banatvala to push the scoreboard along, Zulu being particularly destructive in sending the ball to all parts of the ground, in particular a massive six that went into the houses across the Lakenheath main road. Milden were on the charge but the run rate was ever going up. Oli played a composed innings supporting Zahid well, with some great running between the wickets, Milden continued to believe but eventually Zahid was caught by Pallant for an entertaining 36.
TK walked to the crease and pushed the ball around a for a few singles and he and Oli continued to tick the score board over. Between them they continued to attack the Lakenheath bowlers with TK being particularly destructive, regularly clearing the rope and enforcing bowling changes from Lakenheath. TK and Oli put on a decent partnership before Oli was bowled for 19 and Greg Wilson came to the crease. TK continued to take on the Lakenheath attack, run rate at 10 but keeping up. Wilson was bowled for 2 and Smith strode to the crease and he and TK put on a decent stand with 120 needed from the last 10 overs. Both played aggressively with smart running and smart hitting, TK taking a particular liking to Lakenheath's quicky Palmer, but TK was undone when the pace was taken off the ball by Palmer and was stumped for 62.
Smith continued with positive batting with Archer hitting some nice runs but he was Palmers next victim bowled for 7. Overs were running out and run rate was getting ridiculous when Hayton hobbled out to the middle after hurting his groin whilst bowling, he stood and delivered but was caught for 0 to close the innings for Milden, 70 runs short of our hosts.
Not the result we were looking for but we can only take positives from the game, we did not bowl that well and Palmer was in great nick and with a very good track, cashed in. If we had knicked him out early, who knows but we don’t play our cricket that way and on the day, we just weren’t quite good enough. Big season for Milden, there will be many tough games that will be decided by a few decisions, dropped catches or great knocks, whatever happens we will have much fun.
In the bar after, new Fines enforcement Tsar, Pat Humphries was in the chair, he rinsed the Milden players for a fair few quid; new kit wankers, balls going through legs, moaning about the cold etc etc. Brilliant. Best thing about Sunday apart from not doing DIY because the game was on?..... being with your mates and knowing our club is strong.
Thanks to Lakenheath for their hospitality, great bunch of lads.
No game next week on the Bank Holiday but following week we are at home to Hadleigh Academy so all support very welcome.
Lakenheath 2nd XI 282 for 3
Milden CC 212 All Out
Milden travelled to our friends at Lakenheath on Sunday to kick start their Division 3 campaign following the postponement of their previous fixture against Hartest due to the ground being un-playable. Lakenheath had done everything they could to get the fixture on and when TK rolled up for the toss with the now famous Suffolk bat maker Ed Garrard, he decided to bowl on a firm but relatively green early season pitch. The weather was more akin to staying in doors in front of a fire with the temperature topping out at a maximum of 9 degrees.
Hayton and Smith opened the bowling but soon Milden realised that this pitch was a very decent one with no swing or seam movement. The opening pair of Pallant and Palmer tucked into anything short or wide and the scoreboard began to rotate. After 9 overs Lakenheath were going at 5 an over and making a good start and Hayton and Smith could not find a consistent line or length to apply some pressure. TK behind the stumps soon rotated the bowling with debutant Greg Wilson and Zahid taken up the mantle, with some tidy overs, the runs soon flowed again as Milden were unable to stem the runs and Lakenheath were soon past the 100 mark and the runs continued to flow.
The Lakenheath openers put on a stand of 193 which was eventually broken by Matt Archer who came on and provided some control with some excellent bowling, deceiving Pallant with the flight and TK whipping off the bails to claim Milden’s first scalp. Humphreys was introduced but he could not find the breakthrough and the runs continued to accumulate.
The Milden bowlers were rotated and Smith and Wilson were brought back and eventually Smith claimed the prize wicket of Palmer with Humphries taking a good catch at mid on, great knock by the young lad with 138. Greg Wilson picked up another wicket with Humphries again snaffling another catch to remove M.Milner but Milden were unable to make any in roads into the Lakenheath batsmen with then finishing with a formidable 282 for 3.
Tea was taken in the new pavilion extension and everyone went for the hot tea first, frozen solid by the unseasonal weather. Milden were greeted by a terrific spread of sandwiches and Lakenheath had obviously read our previous match reports and plenty of egg sandwiches were laid on, accompanied by cheese and pickle, tuna and ham, but TK never got past the egg ones. Chicken nuggets, cocktail sausages and sausage rolls joined the line up alongside a selection of sweet treats. Very easy to get a cricket tea wrong, hard to get it right, Lakenheath did the latter, 8 out of 10 for the egg sandwiches, well done.
Milden went out to bat with no other thought than chasing down the 282 they needed to win. Sumo and Boris went out to bat, but Lakenheath decided to take the pace off the ball with a couple of medium pacers in Garrard and Starr, but accurate bowling curtailed the run chase early doors. Mountain to climb after 7 over with only 9 on the board. But Sumo and Boris ran well but Sumes was bowled for 2 and Boris soon followed for 11 with a smart catch at mid-wicket. Humphries took on the mantle with some fine shots, well supported by Humphrey and the scoreboard ticked over, still behind the run rate but making progress. Pat was bowled for a decent 29 when he misjudged one as did our overseas player Colin Humphrey who was sent back across the River Severn for 11.
Zulu came to the crease and partnered with new boy Banatvala to push the scoreboard along, Zulu being particularly destructive in sending the ball to all parts of the ground, in particular a massive six that went into the houses across the Lakenheath main road. Milden were on the charge but the run rate was ever going up. Oli played a composed innings supporting Zahid well, with some great running between the wickets, Milden continued to believe but eventually Zahid was caught by Pallant for an entertaining 36.
TK walked to the crease and pushed the ball around a for a few singles and he and Oli continued to tick the score board over. Between them they continued to attack the Lakenheath bowlers with TK being particularly destructive, regularly clearing the rope and enforcing bowling changes from Lakenheath. TK and Oli put on a decent partnership before Oli was bowled for 19 and Greg Wilson came to the crease. TK continued to take on the Lakenheath attack, run rate at 10 but keeping up. Wilson was bowled for 2 and Smith strode to the crease and he and TK put on a decent stand with 120 needed from the last 10 overs. Both played aggressively with smart running and smart hitting, TK taking a particular liking to Lakenheath's quicky Palmer, but TK was undone when the pace was taken off the ball by Palmer and was stumped for 62.
Smith continued with positive batting with Archer hitting some nice runs but he was Palmers next victim bowled for 7. Overs were running out and run rate was getting ridiculous when Hayton hobbled out to the middle after hurting his groin whilst bowling, he stood and delivered but was caught for 0 to close the innings for Milden, 70 runs short of our hosts.
Not the result we were looking for but we can only take positives from the game, we did not bowl that well and Palmer was in great nick and with a very good track, cashed in. If we had knicked him out early, who knows but we don’t play our cricket that way and on the day, we just weren’t quite good enough. Big season for Milden, there will be many tough games that will be decided by a few decisions, dropped catches or great knocks, whatever happens we will have much fun.
In the bar after, new Fines enforcement Tsar, Pat Humphries was in the chair, he rinsed the Milden players for a fair few quid; new kit wankers, balls going through legs, moaning about the cold etc etc. Brilliant. Best thing about Sunday apart from not doing DIY because the game was on?..... being with your mates and knowing our club is strong.
Thanks to Lakenheath for their hospitality, great bunch of lads.
No game next week on the Bank Holiday but following week we are at home to Hadleigh Academy so all support very welcome.
Sunday 10th September 2017
Hunts County Division 4
Milden 112 for 1
Elveden 110 All Out
Milden won by 9 wickets
Milden welcomed Elveden to the MCG for the last game of the league season, Milden had to win to secure the championship, or hoped Hadleigh lost or that it rained and the match was abandoned to secure the title.
Alan Every had put in some outstanding work at the ground to ensure the game went ahead following some wet weather in the week and prepared a good pitch, which TK elected to bowl on first when winning the toss. Elveden started well with both openers not afraid to free their arms as Hayton and Smith tried to find their lengths. However, Milden were soon into the wickets when Smith had Green caught well by Every. The other opener Codrington rode his luck a bit but played some good shots to keep the scoreboard ticking along. Smith then took his second wicket to leave Elveden 35 for 2 in the 14th over when Every again took an outstanding catch in the slips, diving forward to magnificently snaffle Williams. Hayton bowled with superb line and length but could not pick a wicket up for himself but Milden picked up another wicket when a mix up between Aldous and Codrington saw Will ward fizz a throw to TK behind the stumps and the bails were whipped off to leave Elveden 53 for 3 after 19 overs.
The excellent Hayton 0 for 12 off 7 had been replaced by Zahid as Milden searched for a further breakthrough but it was Smith that produced the fireworks in his last over when he had Codrington caught at gulley for 42 and then two more wickets followed, a magnificent take by Leppard diving to his right at short cover held on to a very difficult chance and then Smith bowled the next batsmen cleanly for 0 with an unplayable delivery that seamed in, finishing with figures of 5 for 23 off 10 and Elveden 60 for 6.
Milden continued to field superbly but Elveden dug in with skipper Kent providing the main resistance. Archer could not pick up a wicket and Leppard now into the attack regularly beat the bat but wickets were hard to come by. Following a conversation between Leppard and TK that went along the lines of ‘take your pads off skip and go and have a bowl’ saw the milden skipper run in from the top end. As Leppard did, TK managed to hoop the ball around and soon was into the wickets when he had Kent caught by Leppard and then proceeded to mop up the tail, bowling his next two victims and having the last wicket caught well by Every at cover to finish with figures of 4 for 4 and Elveden all out for 110.
Tea was taken and Leppard and donned the apron this week. A wonderful spread was laid on with cakes and fruit, pizza and a range of pork based delights, topped off with a pulled pork wrap and homemade BBQ sauce. Homemade sandwiches were the centre piece and when TK saw that Leppard had made two types of egg sandwiches, a traditional egg sandwich and a super secret homemade recipe with a hint of mustard and spring onion, TK nearly fainted. Leppard showed experience in his approach to cricket teas, well done Nick, top tea.
With rain forecast and the skies clouding over, Milden began their run chase with Smith asked to open with Boris and the pair made a steady start against the accurate bowling of Kent and Codrington. The score ticked along slowly but surely. Boris was first to depart when he was adjudged LBW and was back in the pavilion for 8.
Pat Humphries joined Smith and the pair carried on putting on the runs in a steady fashion as light rain came and went but the players stayed out in the middle. With the bowling change at 20 overs, Milden were in a great position and after the drinks break and Humphries began to be more assertive with his batting and the boundaries began to flow, pulling and driving the Elveden bowlers all around the ground. Our President Tissa Rigby manned the scoreboard and diligently counted every run in the inclement weather, brilliant to see her support and those of others wo had come to cheer us on. Smith, the supporting act and continued to play solidly, accumulating runs and running well between the wickets with Pat. Pat brought up his fifty in the closing stages of the game and Milden passed the Elveden total in the 30th over with Pat 56 not out and Joe Smith 33 not out.
Milden were champions of Division 4. A magnificent performance from everyone during this game and also during the season, new records created with back to back promotions and championships. Milden celebrated after the game with a bit of bubbly being sprayed around and a few phots taken.
The players and sup[porters retired to the Edwardstone White Horse where Mick bought the first few jugs of beer and Ben Abbott laid on a terrific spread and we thank you both for supporting our club so generously. We celebrated our success and shared some stories into the evening and did the thing that we did best, be a club.
Milden will be playing in Division 3 next year and going to some new venues in Thurston and British Sugar and seeing some old friends in Risby and Bury St Edmunds. Hadleigh had already been promoted but they lost in their final fixture at home to Lavenham, congratulations to them and thanks to all the other teams we have played.
Final game of the season is the Junior Cup Final which will be played against Twinstead at their place, the TCG next Sunday. All support would be very welcome in what will be another difficult and competitive fixture, maybe another first for Milden in doing the double?
#upthemeldes
Hunts County Division 4
Milden 112 for 1
Elveden 110 All Out
Milden won by 9 wickets
Milden welcomed Elveden to the MCG for the last game of the league season, Milden had to win to secure the championship, or hoped Hadleigh lost or that it rained and the match was abandoned to secure the title.
Alan Every had put in some outstanding work at the ground to ensure the game went ahead following some wet weather in the week and prepared a good pitch, which TK elected to bowl on first when winning the toss. Elveden started well with both openers not afraid to free their arms as Hayton and Smith tried to find their lengths. However, Milden were soon into the wickets when Smith had Green caught well by Every. The other opener Codrington rode his luck a bit but played some good shots to keep the scoreboard ticking along. Smith then took his second wicket to leave Elveden 35 for 2 in the 14th over when Every again took an outstanding catch in the slips, diving forward to magnificently snaffle Williams. Hayton bowled with superb line and length but could not pick a wicket up for himself but Milden picked up another wicket when a mix up between Aldous and Codrington saw Will ward fizz a throw to TK behind the stumps and the bails were whipped off to leave Elveden 53 for 3 after 19 overs.
The excellent Hayton 0 for 12 off 7 had been replaced by Zahid as Milden searched for a further breakthrough but it was Smith that produced the fireworks in his last over when he had Codrington caught at gulley for 42 and then two more wickets followed, a magnificent take by Leppard diving to his right at short cover held on to a very difficult chance and then Smith bowled the next batsmen cleanly for 0 with an unplayable delivery that seamed in, finishing with figures of 5 for 23 off 10 and Elveden 60 for 6.
Milden continued to field superbly but Elveden dug in with skipper Kent providing the main resistance. Archer could not pick up a wicket and Leppard now into the attack regularly beat the bat but wickets were hard to come by. Following a conversation between Leppard and TK that went along the lines of ‘take your pads off skip and go and have a bowl’ saw the milden skipper run in from the top end. As Leppard did, TK managed to hoop the ball around and soon was into the wickets when he had Kent caught by Leppard and then proceeded to mop up the tail, bowling his next two victims and having the last wicket caught well by Every at cover to finish with figures of 4 for 4 and Elveden all out for 110.
Tea was taken and Leppard and donned the apron this week. A wonderful spread was laid on with cakes and fruit, pizza and a range of pork based delights, topped off with a pulled pork wrap and homemade BBQ sauce. Homemade sandwiches were the centre piece and when TK saw that Leppard had made two types of egg sandwiches, a traditional egg sandwich and a super secret homemade recipe with a hint of mustard and spring onion, TK nearly fainted. Leppard showed experience in his approach to cricket teas, well done Nick, top tea.
With rain forecast and the skies clouding over, Milden began their run chase with Smith asked to open with Boris and the pair made a steady start against the accurate bowling of Kent and Codrington. The score ticked along slowly but surely. Boris was first to depart when he was adjudged LBW and was back in the pavilion for 8.
Pat Humphries joined Smith and the pair carried on putting on the runs in a steady fashion as light rain came and went but the players stayed out in the middle. With the bowling change at 20 overs, Milden were in a great position and after the drinks break and Humphries began to be more assertive with his batting and the boundaries began to flow, pulling and driving the Elveden bowlers all around the ground. Our President Tissa Rigby manned the scoreboard and diligently counted every run in the inclement weather, brilliant to see her support and those of others wo had come to cheer us on. Smith, the supporting act and continued to play solidly, accumulating runs and running well between the wickets with Pat. Pat brought up his fifty in the closing stages of the game and Milden passed the Elveden total in the 30th over with Pat 56 not out and Joe Smith 33 not out.
Milden were champions of Division 4. A magnificent performance from everyone during this game and also during the season, new records created with back to back promotions and championships. Milden celebrated after the game with a bit of bubbly being sprayed around and a few phots taken.
The players and sup[porters retired to the Edwardstone White Horse where Mick bought the first few jugs of beer and Ben Abbott laid on a terrific spread and we thank you both for supporting our club so generously. We celebrated our success and shared some stories into the evening and did the thing that we did best, be a club.
Milden will be playing in Division 3 next year and going to some new venues in Thurston and British Sugar and seeing some old friends in Risby and Bury St Edmunds. Hadleigh had already been promoted but they lost in their final fixture at home to Lavenham, congratulations to them and thanks to all the other teams we have played.
Final game of the season is the Junior Cup Final which will be played against Twinstead at their place, the TCG next Sunday. All support would be very welcome in what will be another difficult and competitive fixture, maybe another first for Milden in doing the double?
#upthemeldes
Hunts County League Division 4
3rd September 2017
Milden 112 All out
Hadleigh Academy 113 for 6
Hadleigh won by 4 wickets
Milden welcomed seconds placed Hadleigh to the MCG with Milden able to secure the title and Hadleigh promotion. TK welcomed skipper Buster Tampion and winning the toss TK elected to bat first and make use of the excellent pitch that Alan Every had prepared during the week.
TK opened with Boris and both played watchfully until Boris nicked one behind and was dismissed for 2 in the second over. Pat Humphries joined TK and the pair continued in the same vein, playing carefully against the tight bowling and punishing anything that was loose. The pair put on a stand of 38 when Pat was caught for 14 at point trying to drive at a wide one. TK then soon followed him the next over as he missed a straight one and was bowled for 11, Milden were39 for 3. Colin Humphries and Alex Zahid were at the crease but wickets kept tumbling as first Zahid ten Humphries were both caught trying to push the score along, Milden now 46 for 5.
Will Ward and Richard Harding were now both in and the pair began to try and rebuild the innings. Will Ward who had been out of form with the bat, was showing some real intent and focus as he drove and cut at anything wide, choosing is shots much more carefully. Harding who had not batted for a month too played straight as the pair began to push the ones and two’s hard and get Milden to a defendable target. Hadleigh continued to bowl very tightly and scoring was difficult, Ward was first to go when he tried to pull a straight one and was bowled for 22 and then Harding played an also most identical shot and was dismissed for 16 a few balls later, Milden 83 for 7 in the 28th over.
Joe Smith and Nick Leppard continued the good work, accumulating runs on the board and as the overs began to run out, pushed the pedal down, but Leppard following some great driving, didn’t quite get hold of a pull shot and was caught right on the boundary for 8. Smith continued to marshal the tail, playing some intelligent cricket but he was running out of partners as St Ledger was dismissed LBW for 1 and then Hayton got a good ball that seamed away and bowled him for 0.
Milden closed their innings on 112 all out in the 36th over, a below par score on any ground.
Tea was taken and it was Joe Smiths mum, Jane, who was in the hot seat this week. The players had to wait a few minutes extra as the smell of bacon wafted from the kitchen, but they were rewarded with an excellent tea. Hot bacon rolls were joined by egg and cress sandwiches as the table wobbled under the weight of food. TK beamed with pleasure as he chomped down on his egg sandwich feast. Cheese and pickle were joined by a range of other savoury treats in the form of pasties, sausage rolls and pizzas to boot. The platter of fresh watermelon, pineapple and other fruits was readily tucked into but the fresh cream and jam scones, cheesecake and other sweet selections rounded off a terrific tea. Well done Mrs Smith !!!
Milden took to the field knowing that they would need a herculean effort to win this game and with TK geeing up the team in the huddle, Milden as they say, had a right good go. Hayton steamed in down the hill and had the Hadleigh openers playing and missing, Smith too ran in and every ball that was bowled seemed to have a chance in it. Hayton made the first break through when he had Colcomb superbly caught by Richard Harding behind the slips, diving to his right and snatching a sharp chance cleanly. Hayton was soon again into the wickets when he had Wilding bowled for 1 and Milden had their tails up. A couple of chances went begging s the new batsmen played themselves in but the Millender’s persevered and showed greater energy as TK rallied the troops in the field.
Morrin rode his luck a few times as Hadleigh continued to accumulate runs, Humphreys had replaced Smith and it was he who made the break through, clean bowling the young Hadleigh batsmen. Milden then had a sniff when Zahid removed A Tampion for a duck but with Manthorpe coming in it was always going to be a struggle to remove him. However, Milden continued to make Hadleigh work for every single run and a couple of balls flew past the bat and just wide of fielders, could have been a different story. TK brought himself on to bowl with a final shuffle of the pack, he eventually dismissed Manthorpe for 29 and well caught by Harding and then the resilient O Tampion snaffled by Pat at mid-on. However, it was too little, too late as the score stood at 111 and Hadleigh were able to nick a couple of runs to give them the win in the 26th over and confirm their promotion. Congratulations to them, our paths will cross again next year in Division 3.
A disappointing result for Milden, just didn’t get enough runs but we did have Hadleigh thinking that it may not be as easy as they thought, especially if a few chances had stuck or gone our way. However, a terrific effort in the field and we demonstrated the fighting spirit that has come to represent what our club is all about.
Next week is the final league game of the season when Milden will host Elveden at the MCG. If we win this game we are champions, if not then Hadleigh will pip us to the title should they beat Lavenham, its still in our own hands. So please do come and support us, we are doing our best to give all people in the local area an entertaining alternative to going to B&Q or those relatives that you just don’t get on with, come and watch some entertaining and competitive village cricket.
#UPTHEMELDES
3rd September 2017
Milden 112 All out
Hadleigh Academy 113 for 6
Hadleigh won by 4 wickets
Milden welcomed seconds placed Hadleigh to the MCG with Milden able to secure the title and Hadleigh promotion. TK welcomed skipper Buster Tampion and winning the toss TK elected to bat first and make use of the excellent pitch that Alan Every had prepared during the week.
TK opened with Boris and both played watchfully until Boris nicked one behind and was dismissed for 2 in the second over. Pat Humphries joined TK and the pair continued in the same vein, playing carefully against the tight bowling and punishing anything that was loose. The pair put on a stand of 38 when Pat was caught for 14 at point trying to drive at a wide one. TK then soon followed him the next over as he missed a straight one and was bowled for 11, Milden were39 for 3. Colin Humphries and Alex Zahid were at the crease but wickets kept tumbling as first Zahid ten Humphries were both caught trying to push the score along, Milden now 46 for 5.
Will Ward and Richard Harding were now both in and the pair began to try and rebuild the innings. Will Ward who had been out of form with the bat, was showing some real intent and focus as he drove and cut at anything wide, choosing is shots much more carefully. Harding who had not batted for a month too played straight as the pair began to push the ones and two’s hard and get Milden to a defendable target. Hadleigh continued to bowl very tightly and scoring was difficult, Ward was first to go when he tried to pull a straight one and was bowled for 22 and then Harding played an also most identical shot and was dismissed for 16 a few balls later, Milden 83 for 7 in the 28th over.
Joe Smith and Nick Leppard continued the good work, accumulating runs on the board and as the overs began to run out, pushed the pedal down, but Leppard following some great driving, didn’t quite get hold of a pull shot and was caught right on the boundary for 8. Smith continued to marshal the tail, playing some intelligent cricket but he was running out of partners as St Ledger was dismissed LBW for 1 and then Hayton got a good ball that seamed away and bowled him for 0.
Milden closed their innings on 112 all out in the 36th over, a below par score on any ground.
Tea was taken and it was Joe Smiths mum, Jane, who was in the hot seat this week. The players had to wait a few minutes extra as the smell of bacon wafted from the kitchen, but they were rewarded with an excellent tea. Hot bacon rolls were joined by egg and cress sandwiches as the table wobbled under the weight of food. TK beamed with pleasure as he chomped down on his egg sandwich feast. Cheese and pickle were joined by a range of other savoury treats in the form of pasties, sausage rolls and pizzas to boot. The platter of fresh watermelon, pineapple and other fruits was readily tucked into but the fresh cream and jam scones, cheesecake and other sweet selections rounded off a terrific tea. Well done Mrs Smith !!!
Milden took to the field knowing that they would need a herculean effort to win this game and with TK geeing up the team in the huddle, Milden as they say, had a right good go. Hayton steamed in down the hill and had the Hadleigh openers playing and missing, Smith too ran in and every ball that was bowled seemed to have a chance in it. Hayton made the first break through when he had Colcomb superbly caught by Richard Harding behind the slips, diving to his right and snatching a sharp chance cleanly. Hayton was soon again into the wickets when he had Wilding bowled for 1 and Milden had their tails up. A couple of chances went begging s the new batsmen played themselves in but the Millender’s persevered and showed greater energy as TK rallied the troops in the field.
Morrin rode his luck a few times as Hadleigh continued to accumulate runs, Humphreys had replaced Smith and it was he who made the break through, clean bowling the young Hadleigh batsmen. Milden then had a sniff when Zahid removed A Tampion for a duck but with Manthorpe coming in it was always going to be a struggle to remove him. However, Milden continued to make Hadleigh work for every single run and a couple of balls flew past the bat and just wide of fielders, could have been a different story. TK brought himself on to bowl with a final shuffle of the pack, he eventually dismissed Manthorpe for 29 and well caught by Harding and then the resilient O Tampion snaffled by Pat at mid-on. However, it was too little, too late as the score stood at 111 and Hadleigh were able to nick a couple of runs to give them the win in the 26th over and confirm their promotion. Congratulations to them, our paths will cross again next year in Division 3.
A disappointing result for Milden, just didn’t get enough runs but we did have Hadleigh thinking that it may not be as easy as they thought, especially if a few chances had stuck or gone our way. However, a terrific effort in the field and we demonstrated the fighting spirit that has come to represent what our club is all about.
Next week is the final league game of the season when Milden will host Elveden at the MCG. If we win this game we are champions, if not then Hadleigh will pip us to the title should they beat Lavenham, its still in our own hands. So please do come and support us, we are doing our best to give all people in the local area an entertaining alternative to going to B&Q or those relatives that you just don’t get on with, come and watch some entertaining and competitive village cricket.
#UPTHEMELDES
27th August 2017
Hunts County Division 4
Woolpit 165 for 4
Milden 265 for 6
Milden won by 100 runs
Milden travelled to Woolpit on Sunday to face a Woolpit side they had beaten only two weeks previously. Arriving to the wonderful ground, bathed in warm sunshine, TK was greeted by skipper Angell and TK won the toss and had absolutely no hesitation in batting first.
TK opened with the returning Boris and the pair played carefully against some tight bowling, anything that was off line or short was dispatched to the boundary, Boris in particularly playing the pull shot very well. TK was driving well but in the 9th over was undone by a Yorker and was bowled for 12 with the score on 31. Patel joined Boris but they did not last too long together as Boris pulled a beautiful shot, unfortunately straight at the square leg fielder, caught for 16 and Milden were 39 for 2 in the 10th.
Colin Humphrey joined Chintesh and Colin showed his intent from the first delivery he faced by smacking a ball for 4 straight through the covers. Chintesh supported well but he too hit a magnificent shot for 4 off his legs through mid wicket. Colin and Chintesh started to take the game away from Woolpit as that fella Humphrey drove and cut anything not online and the scoreboard was having trouble keeping up. The score got to 91 in the 18th over when Chintesh was caught for 13 and then Humphrey followed the over after when on 48 he deflected the ball onto his stumps, bowled.
Wooderson strode to the crease and being joined by Zahid, the pair began to push the score on. Wooderson in particular, marshalling Zahid and himself, cutting and pulling the ball to all parts of the ground. Zahid played watchfully but soon was hitting some towering sixes and big fours to all parts of the ground. The scoreboard was moving quickly as the pair put on a solid stand until Zahid went for one shot too many and was caught on the mid-wicket boundary for 31.
Ward joined Woody who had now passed his fifty and the heavy scoring continued against what was quite a decent Woolpit attack but the deck was a road. Ward supported Woody with some intelligent running, himself smacking the opening bowler for 4 straight back over his head. However, in the 35th over, Ward trying to push the score on further was bowled for 12. Smith joined Woody who was now seeing the ball like a beach ball as he dispatched the bowlers all around the ground as Milden passed 200 and were focusing on achieving 250. Smith supported Woody well again with some smart running and some quality strokes too. Milden closed the innings on 265 for 6 with Smith 15 not out and Woody terrifically, 85 not out, well batted.
Tea was taken and Woolpit were not messing about and they laid on a terrific spread lots of freshly made sandwiches, pork pies, sausage rolls and scotch eggs. Some fabulous fresh cream cakes and scones and perfectly ripe fruit also accompanied the main event, washed down with tea and squash. TK sat glumly at the end of the table, muttering away to himself about ‘is this a wind up? Do they purposely not make egg sandwiches to get at me? Do I have an egg sandwich problem?’
Fully fuelled Milden took to the field and during their customary huddle TK made it clear that collectively we would have to field and bowl really well on a flat deck and a fast outfield, the destiny of promotion and the championship, we needed to keep it in our own hands.
Hayton and Smith opened the innings with some tight bowling but it took them a couple of overs to get into their stride, Woolpit played watchfully as both Greg and Joe were giving nothing away, forcing them to take risks and force the issue. Smith was first to strike as the opener Routledge frustrated by some of the superb fielding and bowling limited his scoring, hit Smith straight back over his head, but the towering shot was caught superbly and calmly by Humphrey in the 6th over to take the first wicket. Woolpit 10 for 1 in the 6th. Smith and Hayton continued to bowl well in tandem, pushing the batsman back and beating the edge regularly, but the scoreboard was not moving quickly enough for Woolpit.
Hayton struck next when he took the key wicket skipper Angell, who nicked one behind and TK pouched the catch. Hayton and Smith continued and were supported superbly by all the Mildeners in the field. Hayton finished his spell 1 for 13 off his 6 overs and Humphrey replaced him from the top end. Smith struck next when he clean bowled Swinburn with an excellent Yorker and Milden sensed a sniff of a victory. Humphrey bowled very well from the top end beating the bat and was unfortunate not to pick up his first wicket when TK could not hold onto a sharp chance, but he was soon to get that wicket when he bowled a superb in swinging delivery to Godden which removed his off stump and Woolpit were 53 for 4 in the 18th over.
Drinks were taken and Milden continued to turn the screw but young pairing of Flanagan and Burea dug in, Smith finished his 10 over spell with 2 for 21, excellent figures and was replaced by Leppard. Nick bowled a really nagging line and length and had the Woolpit batsmen reaching for a few and was very unlucky not to pick up a wicket. Humphrey 1-25 made way for Wooderson who wheeled away from the top end getting some big spin on the wearing pitch. TK rotated the bowling again as Milden searched for more wickets but both Woolpit batsmen played sensibly. But the run rate was well out of their reach as Milden maintained their levels in the field, Woody and then Chintesh bowled their spin to the end of the innings where Woolpit finished on 165 for 4.
Man of the match went to Woody for his terrific knock of 85 not out, some great performances yesterday from a few players but cant look past him.
So promotion to Division 3 has been secured, back to back promotions gained and Milden had a quick huddle before leaving the field, TK imposing some wise words (what goes on in the huddle, stays in the huddle, sorry) Milden shared a few celebratory beers with Woolpit who said some really nice complimentary things about us, even more hard work and effort will be needed to maintain our standards. We said goodbye to Woolpit and then we went back to the Edwardstone White Horse where Eddyfest was in full swing, sunk plenty of beers with Mick and some of our supporters.
A great achievement for our small club but we have won nothing yet and next week we face our local friends and rivals Hadleigh at the MCG. So please come along and support us, watch some good village cricket and be part of Milden Cricket Club.
#upthemeldes
Hunts County Division 4
Woolpit 165 for 4
Milden 265 for 6
Milden won by 100 runs
Milden travelled to Woolpit on Sunday to face a Woolpit side they had beaten only two weeks previously. Arriving to the wonderful ground, bathed in warm sunshine, TK was greeted by skipper Angell and TK won the toss and had absolutely no hesitation in batting first.
TK opened with the returning Boris and the pair played carefully against some tight bowling, anything that was off line or short was dispatched to the boundary, Boris in particularly playing the pull shot very well. TK was driving well but in the 9th over was undone by a Yorker and was bowled for 12 with the score on 31. Patel joined Boris but they did not last too long together as Boris pulled a beautiful shot, unfortunately straight at the square leg fielder, caught for 16 and Milden were 39 for 2 in the 10th.
Colin Humphrey joined Chintesh and Colin showed his intent from the first delivery he faced by smacking a ball for 4 straight through the covers. Chintesh supported well but he too hit a magnificent shot for 4 off his legs through mid wicket. Colin and Chintesh started to take the game away from Woolpit as that fella Humphrey drove and cut anything not online and the scoreboard was having trouble keeping up. The score got to 91 in the 18th over when Chintesh was caught for 13 and then Humphrey followed the over after when on 48 he deflected the ball onto his stumps, bowled.
Wooderson strode to the crease and being joined by Zahid, the pair began to push the score on. Wooderson in particular, marshalling Zahid and himself, cutting and pulling the ball to all parts of the ground. Zahid played watchfully but soon was hitting some towering sixes and big fours to all parts of the ground. The scoreboard was moving quickly as the pair put on a solid stand until Zahid went for one shot too many and was caught on the mid-wicket boundary for 31.
Ward joined Woody who had now passed his fifty and the heavy scoring continued against what was quite a decent Woolpit attack but the deck was a road. Ward supported Woody with some intelligent running, himself smacking the opening bowler for 4 straight back over his head. However, in the 35th over, Ward trying to push the score on further was bowled for 12. Smith joined Woody who was now seeing the ball like a beach ball as he dispatched the bowlers all around the ground as Milden passed 200 and were focusing on achieving 250. Smith supported Woody well again with some smart running and some quality strokes too. Milden closed the innings on 265 for 6 with Smith 15 not out and Woody terrifically, 85 not out, well batted.
Tea was taken and Woolpit were not messing about and they laid on a terrific spread lots of freshly made sandwiches, pork pies, sausage rolls and scotch eggs. Some fabulous fresh cream cakes and scones and perfectly ripe fruit also accompanied the main event, washed down with tea and squash. TK sat glumly at the end of the table, muttering away to himself about ‘is this a wind up? Do they purposely not make egg sandwiches to get at me? Do I have an egg sandwich problem?’
Fully fuelled Milden took to the field and during their customary huddle TK made it clear that collectively we would have to field and bowl really well on a flat deck and a fast outfield, the destiny of promotion and the championship, we needed to keep it in our own hands.
Hayton and Smith opened the innings with some tight bowling but it took them a couple of overs to get into their stride, Woolpit played watchfully as both Greg and Joe were giving nothing away, forcing them to take risks and force the issue. Smith was first to strike as the opener Routledge frustrated by some of the superb fielding and bowling limited his scoring, hit Smith straight back over his head, but the towering shot was caught superbly and calmly by Humphrey in the 6th over to take the first wicket. Woolpit 10 for 1 in the 6th. Smith and Hayton continued to bowl well in tandem, pushing the batsman back and beating the edge regularly, but the scoreboard was not moving quickly enough for Woolpit.
Hayton struck next when he took the key wicket skipper Angell, who nicked one behind and TK pouched the catch. Hayton and Smith continued and were supported superbly by all the Mildeners in the field. Hayton finished his spell 1 for 13 off his 6 overs and Humphrey replaced him from the top end. Smith struck next when he clean bowled Swinburn with an excellent Yorker and Milden sensed a sniff of a victory. Humphrey bowled very well from the top end beating the bat and was unfortunate not to pick up his first wicket when TK could not hold onto a sharp chance, but he was soon to get that wicket when he bowled a superb in swinging delivery to Godden which removed his off stump and Woolpit were 53 for 4 in the 18th over.
Drinks were taken and Milden continued to turn the screw but young pairing of Flanagan and Burea dug in, Smith finished his 10 over spell with 2 for 21, excellent figures and was replaced by Leppard. Nick bowled a really nagging line and length and had the Woolpit batsmen reaching for a few and was very unlucky not to pick up a wicket. Humphrey 1-25 made way for Wooderson who wheeled away from the top end getting some big spin on the wearing pitch. TK rotated the bowling again as Milden searched for more wickets but both Woolpit batsmen played sensibly. But the run rate was well out of their reach as Milden maintained their levels in the field, Woody and then Chintesh bowled their spin to the end of the innings where Woolpit finished on 165 for 4.
Man of the match went to Woody for his terrific knock of 85 not out, some great performances yesterday from a few players but cant look past him.
So promotion to Division 3 has been secured, back to back promotions gained and Milden had a quick huddle before leaving the field, TK imposing some wise words (what goes on in the huddle, stays in the huddle, sorry) Milden shared a few celebratory beers with Woolpit who said some really nice complimentary things about us, even more hard work and effort will be needed to maintain our standards. We said goodbye to Woolpit and then we went back to the Edwardstone White Horse where Eddyfest was in full swing, sunk plenty of beers with Mick and some of our supporters.
A great achievement for our small club but we have won nothing yet and next week we face our local friends and rivals Hadleigh at the MCG. So please come along and support us, watch some good village cricket and be part of Milden Cricket Club.
#upthemeldes
Sunday 20th August 2017.
Hunts County League Division 4
Lavenham Cricket Club 103 for 9
Milden 104 for 2
Milden won 7 wickets
Milden travelled the short distance along the A1141 for this South Suffolk derby against our friends and local rivals Lavenham. On a warm and sunny day, TK and Lavenham skipper Robinson exchanged pleasantries in the middle and TK proceeded to lose the toss and Lavenham decided to bat.
Hayton and Smith did what they do and charged in on a slow wicket that did not offer a lot to the bowler, but were soon beating the bat with some fine swinging deliveries, some graft and guile shown. Smith had the first chance but TK couldn’t take the catch, diving to his left behind the stumps and Leppard too was unable to hold onto a sharp one at second slip as Milden tried to make the break through. Easdale played his shots and Levett was prepared to support him, but when a quick two was taken, Will Ward chased the ball down and an accurate throw meant that Smith whipped the bails off and Levett was run out.
Lavenham were 17 for 1 after 10 overs, Hayton now bowling with some real pace and shape, had C Maddell caught sharply behind by TK for 0 and then picked up the wicket of skipper Robinson, who tried to leave one as it jagged back and caught is bat and TK did the rest behind the stumps, Lavenham 21 for 3 in the 12th and Hayton was bowling magnificently.
Lavenham dug in and Easdale and M Theobold tried to steady the ship and did so moving the score to 39 but in the 16th over, Smith struck bowling Easdale beautifully with an in swinger. Young R Easdale replaced his father and he and Sparky started to rotate to the scoreboard, Sparky doing what he does well and taken on the bowlers. Leppard replaced Greg Hayton (8 overs 2 for 8) and bowled some terrific stuff, swinging the ball and beating the bat at will. Smith continued to probe away outside off stump, Lavenham started to move the score on, Sparky flashed at Smith outside off stump and Phillips took a magnificent and important diving catch to his right to send the batsmen back to the pavilion. Smith finished his spell, 10 over 2 for 28
TK rotated his bowlers again, looking to run through the Lavenham team, new boy Humphrey (not to be confused with Pat Humphries) replaced Smith and ran in hard with his left arm over action, swinging it into the right hander and at pace. Lavenham now stood on 70 and R Easdale batting nicely but Colin bowled one slightly shorter that caught Easdale by surprise and he could only top edge it and Colin snaffled the catch caught and bowled for his maiden wicket for Milden. At the other end Archer replaced Leppard and bowled some much better lines than previous weeks and had the Lavenham batsmen groping for the ball. Matty was soon in the wickets when his 4th ball bounced and turned and was too good for E Smith and TK took a sharp catch again behind the stumps.
Colin was now into his stride and soon had C Hayton and D Smith both bowled, in consecutive overs to leave Lavenham on 90 for 9. S Theobold and P Jeffrey put on an additional 14 runs, Simon Theobold attacking Humphrey when he could before and surprisingly, Lavenham decided to declare in the 32nd over on 103. Mind games? They had obviously seen Milden bat before !!
Tea was taken and a magnificent spread greeted the Milden players. A range of sandwiches from turkey to ham, tuna, cheese and egg sandwiches. Pork pies and cocktail sausages were in abundance and Lavenham showed their class with a cheeky quiche or two to boot. Plenty of cakes and sweet things washed down with hot tea. TK and Leppard were seen animatedly discussing the quality of the egg sandwiches, ‘what both white and brown bread varieties?’ ‘seasoned well’, then Leppard clinched it, ‘it’s all about plenty of filling, they were plump and delicious, 9.5 out of 10. Best away tea we have had this year, well done Lavenham.
Following a terrific tea and egg sandwiches galore, TK was in no fit state to open the innings so he asked Smith and Phillips to build a platform to chase down the runs. R Easdale and S Theobold opened the bowling for Lavenham and they bowled some really tight stuff and Milden were just knocking singles around, Phillips still struggling with his calf strain.
Both batsmen batted with confidence and conviction as Lavenham probed away at the stumps. After 10 overs Milden were 18 for 0 and then after 34 after 17, anything loose, which there was not much of, was punished for 4. Robinson and M Theobold had replaced the opening pair and it was Sparky that made the breakthrough, having Smith caught behind for 18.
Phillips and Patel continued in the same vain but Phillips was now driving better and pulling anything short for 4, Chintesh supported Phillips well with some intelligent running and confident stroke play, Phillips then departed LBW for 48 and Milden were 95 for 2. Pat Humphries joined Patel at the crease and again watchfully nudged the score along and deflected the good natured banter that was being had in the field. Following a high scoring over, Milden chased down the 104 required to win the game, Chintesh 15 not out and Pat 9 not out.
The win may have looked easy but give Lavenham a sniff and they will murder you and we have been there before. An excellent 20 points for us and a good, competitive and proper village game of cricket. Big thank you to our hosts for looking after us and providing an excellent tea, those egg sandwiches, marker been laid.
We all retired to the Angel to share a few beers with the oppo. With holiday season nearly finished TK hoped it would be easier for selection but that does not seem to be the case, but the strength and depth of our squad is starting to show as we get down to the business end of the season.
Next week Milden travel to Woolpit which is always a terrific ground to play at, all support very much welcome.
UP THE MELDES !!!
Hunts County League Division 4
Lavenham Cricket Club 103 for 9
Milden 104 for 2
Milden won 7 wickets
Milden travelled the short distance along the A1141 for this South Suffolk derby against our friends and local rivals Lavenham. On a warm and sunny day, TK and Lavenham skipper Robinson exchanged pleasantries in the middle and TK proceeded to lose the toss and Lavenham decided to bat.
Hayton and Smith did what they do and charged in on a slow wicket that did not offer a lot to the bowler, but were soon beating the bat with some fine swinging deliveries, some graft and guile shown. Smith had the first chance but TK couldn’t take the catch, diving to his left behind the stumps and Leppard too was unable to hold onto a sharp one at second slip as Milden tried to make the break through. Easdale played his shots and Levett was prepared to support him, but when a quick two was taken, Will Ward chased the ball down and an accurate throw meant that Smith whipped the bails off and Levett was run out.
Lavenham were 17 for 1 after 10 overs, Hayton now bowling with some real pace and shape, had C Maddell caught sharply behind by TK for 0 and then picked up the wicket of skipper Robinson, who tried to leave one as it jagged back and caught is bat and TK did the rest behind the stumps, Lavenham 21 for 3 in the 12th and Hayton was bowling magnificently.
Lavenham dug in and Easdale and M Theobold tried to steady the ship and did so moving the score to 39 but in the 16th over, Smith struck bowling Easdale beautifully with an in swinger. Young R Easdale replaced his father and he and Sparky started to rotate to the scoreboard, Sparky doing what he does well and taken on the bowlers. Leppard replaced Greg Hayton (8 overs 2 for 8) and bowled some terrific stuff, swinging the ball and beating the bat at will. Smith continued to probe away outside off stump, Lavenham started to move the score on, Sparky flashed at Smith outside off stump and Phillips took a magnificent and important diving catch to his right to send the batsmen back to the pavilion. Smith finished his spell, 10 over 2 for 28
TK rotated his bowlers again, looking to run through the Lavenham team, new boy Humphrey (not to be confused with Pat Humphries) replaced Smith and ran in hard with his left arm over action, swinging it into the right hander and at pace. Lavenham now stood on 70 and R Easdale batting nicely but Colin bowled one slightly shorter that caught Easdale by surprise and he could only top edge it and Colin snaffled the catch caught and bowled for his maiden wicket for Milden. At the other end Archer replaced Leppard and bowled some much better lines than previous weeks and had the Lavenham batsmen groping for the ball. Matty was soon in the wickets when his 4th ball bounced and turned and was too good for E Smith and TK took a sharp catch again behind the stumps.
Colin was now into his stride and soon had C Hayton and D Smith both bowled, in consecutive overs to leave Lavenham on 90 for 9. S Theobold and P Jeffrey put on an additional 14 runs, Simon Theobold attacking Humphrey when he could before and surprisingly, Lavenham decided to declare in the 32nd over on 103. Mind games? They had obviously seen Milden bat before !!
Tea was taken and a magnificent spread greeted the Milden players. A range of sandwiches from turkey to ham, tuna, cheese and egg sandwiches. Pork pies and cocktail sausages were in abundance and Lavenham showed their class with a cheeky quiche or two to boot. Plenty of cakes and sweet things washed down with hot tea. TK and Leppard were seen animatedly discussing the quality of the egg sandwiches, ‘what both white and brown bread varieties?’ ‘seasoned well’, then Leppard clinched it, ‘it’s all about plenty of filling, they were plump and delicious, 9.5 out of 10. Best away tea we have had this year, well done Lavenham.
Following a terrific tea and egg sandwiches galore, TK was in no fit state to open the innings so he asked Smith and Phillips to build a platform to chase down the runs. R Easdale and S Theobold opened the bowling for Lavenham and they bowled some really tight stuff and Milden were just knocking singles around, Phillips still struggling with his calf strain.
Both batsmen batted with confidence and conviction as Lavenham probed away at the stumps. After 10 overs Milden were 18 for 0 and then after 34 after 17, anything loose, which there was not much of, was punished for 4. Robinson and M Theobold had replaced the opening pair and it was Sparky that made the breakthrough, having Smith caught behind for 18.
Phillips and Patel continued in the same vain but Phillips was now driving better and pulling anything short for 4, Chintesh supported Phillips well with some intelligent running and confident stroke play, Phillips then departed LBW for 48 and Milden were 95 for 2. Pat Humphries joined Patel at the crease and again watchfully nudged the score along and deflected the good natured banter that was being had in the field. Following a high scoring over, Milden chased down the 104 required to win the game, Chintesh 15 not out and Pat 9 not out.
The win may have looked easy but give Lavenham a sniff and they will murder you and we have been there before. An excellent 20 points for us and a good, competitive and proper village game of cricket. Big thank you to our hosts for looking after us and providing an excellent tea, those egg sandwiches, marker been laid.
We all retired to the Angel to share a few beers with the oppo. With holiday season nearly finished TK hoped it would be easier for selection but that does not seem to be the case, but the strength and depth of our squad is starting to show as we get down to the business end of the season.
Next week Milden travel to Woolpit which is always a terrific ground to play at, all support very much welcome.
UP THE MELDES !!!
Sunday 13th August 2017.
Hunts County League Division 4
Milden 161 for 8
Woolpit 2nd XI 128 for 6
Milden won by 55 runs
Milden welcomed Woolpit to the MCG this week on a gloriously sunny and warm day knowing that this was a must win game for the Meldes with teams below them keeping up the pressure for promotion. TK welcomed skipper Newcombe on the square and Milden decided to bat.
With a few players missing, TK decided to open the innings with Alex Zahid, the Woolpit bowlers opening with some tight lines on a drying pitch following the mid week heavy rain. TK and Alex found it hard going as Woolpit backed their bowlers in the field and the score inched along, big Alex couldn’t wait and was caught at mid on for 3 trying to move the score along.
Pat Humphries joined TK at number 3 and the pair continued to play watchfully as Woolpit rotated their bowlers but the runs were kept in check. After 13 over Milden were only 24 for 1, however, TK and Pat started to play themselves in and soon had the scoreboard moving as any wayward bowling was sent to the boundary and TK started to take on the bowlers. At drinks (20 overs) the score was now 77 for 1 and looking much better and TK took to one of the bowlers with a couple of huge sixes. The next over , Pat was cleverly bowled for 30 and Chintesh joined TK. TK was soon also out for 45, caught right on the boundary but the score now stood 93 for 3 as Milden began to post a total. Will Ward replaced TK but was soon in the hutch for 0, clean bowled. Woolpit sensed a collapse but Woody and Chintesh continued to know the ball about and get us over 100.
Chintesh was soon caught for 17 at mid on and Smith and Woody took up the mantle. Some intelligent batting and very good running saw the scoreboard continue to tick over, Woody in particular, playing some nice aggressive cricket shots. Smith unluckily chopped onto his own stumps and Hayton was then adjudged LBW first ball and he too was back in the pavilion.
Woolpit had their tails up but Pipe had other ideas as he ably supported Woody in getting Milden over the 150 mark. Woody continued to play some nice shots but it was Pipe who was the aggressor, timing a beautiful cover drive for 4, leaving the fielder sprawling on the boundary. However, all good things come to an end and his entertaining knock of 13 was brought to an end when clean bowled. Matt Archer joined Woody for the last few balls and the score ended on 161 for 8 with Matt 1 not out and Woody 31 not out.
Tea was take and Matty Archer had surpassed himself with a range of homemade delights. The table covered in a nice red and white gingham cloth groaned under the weight of food Matt had prepared, knowing that he could be banished to Lavenham for failure to deliver egg sandwiches, Archer had stepped up his game, providing tasty platefuls of egg and cress sandwiches, TK nodded approvingly. These were joined by Tuna and cucumber, cheese and pickle, ham and to top it off, Prawn sandwiches, how far has our club come !! Archer was not finished there with homemade pizza/tarts and chicken nuggets on the side. Scones with clotted cream and jam, Victoria sponge and biscuits and fruit brought the feast to its epiphany, did he not know we had to go and field !!! Tea score 9.5 out of 10, well done Archer.
Milden waddled into the field and TK emphasised that they would have to work hard to get the Woolpit wickets on an ever flattening wicket. Hayton steamed in down the Milden hill and had the ball swinging and seaming at will. Smith at the other end, was his ever economical self, like a metronome, placing the ball on the spot. Hayton thought he had one nick behind but TK shelled a quick chance, murmurings from the umpire were he didn’t hit it, didn’t make anyone feel better. Hayton continued to bowl with skill and venom, bowling some absolute jaffa’s too good for Woolpit, between him and Smith the Woolpit innings had ground to a halt.
A break through was needed and Zahid replaced Hayton and after a couple of looseners was swinging the ball both ways, beating the bat. Big Alex eventually did find the edge and TK did the rest behind the stumps, snaffling the wicket of Tilbrook.
Joe Smith continued to run up the hill, was unlucky not to get a wicket and finished his 10 overs for only 12 runs with 5 maidens in his spell. Zahid then picked up another wicket, clean bowling Stanton for 2 and TK was able to bring the spin twins into the game, Wooderson and Archer. Woody bowled some great line and length, getting the arm ball to work and TK again shelled a sharp chance. Archer was not as straight but was giving it a real rip up the hill and he soon bowled the stubborn resistance of Godden. Woody bowled beautifully and made the Woolpit players play some false shots, really unlucky not to pick up a wicket, but his economy was tight.
Archer occasionally strayed down the leg side and went for the odd boundary but managed to keep the batsmen in check, however, Archer bowled some really good stuff but was rewarded with another wicket when he strayed down leg and the batsmen smashed it towards the boundary but Woody was waiting and he took an excellent catch in the deep. TK brought Zahid on after Archers great return of 2 for 31, to try and get the wickets flowing faster. The fielders were supporting the bowlers superbly with Every and Ward immaculate in the field.
Zahid came back and in his first over back clean bowled the Woolpit bat to set Milden on their way, the run rate was now near 8 an over and Woody was keeping any chances of a chase in check. However, the young Woolpit batsmen batted with confidence and technique and Milden were unable to get them out as they pushed the ball around to keep the scoreboard ticking over for the visitors.
Eventually, the innings closed in the 40 over with Woolpit 128 for 6, Milden winning by 55 runs. Another good win for Milden with people stepping into the team with selection challenges really testing the strength of the squad. The players retired to the Edwardstone White Horse where rounds of drinks were bought, Jay Phillips buying some jugs and then disappearing, welcome all the same. Mick and Ben looked after us as always with turkey sandwiches and chips, washed down with the finest cold beers.
We are getting down to the business end of the season and we are in a great position to get promoted and dare I say it, win the league. In our way stand our dearest friends and rivals Lavenham, as we make the short journey down the road to play them next week.
Every bit of support would be welcome.
UP THE MELDES !!!
Hunts County League Division 4
Milden 161 for 8
Woolpit 2nd XI 128 for 6
Milden won by 55 runs
Milden welcomed Woolpit to the MCG this week on a gloriously sunny and warm day knowing that this was a must win game for the Meldes with teams below them keeping up the pressure for promotion. TK welcomed skipper Newcombe on the square and Milden decided to bat.
With a few players missing, TK decided to open the innings with Alex Zahid, the Woolpit bowlers opening with some tight lines on a drying pitch following the mid week heavy rain. TK and Alex found it hard going as Woolpit backed their bowlers in the field and the score inched along, big Alex couldn’t wait and was caught at mid on for 3 trying to move the score along.
Pat Humphries joined TK at number 3 and the pair continued to play watchfully as Woolpit rotated their bowlers but the runs were kept in check. After 13 over Milden were only 24 for 1, however, TK and Pat started to play themselves in and soon had the scoreboard moving as any wayward bowling was sent to the boundary and TK started to take on the bowlers. At drinks (20 overs) the score was now 77 for 1 and looking much better and TK took to one of the bowlers with a couple of huge sixes. The next over , Pat was cleverly bowled for 30 and Chintesh joined TK. TK was soon also out for 45, caught right on the boundary but the score now stood 93 for 3 as Milden began to post a total. Will Ward replaced TK but was soon in the hutch for 0, clean bowled. Woolpit sensed a collapse but Woody and Chintesh continued to know the ball about and get us over 100.
Chintesh was soon caught for 17 at mid on and Smith and Woody took up the mantle. Some intelligent batting and very good running saw the scoreboard continue to tick over, Woody in particular, playing some nice aggressive cricket shots. Smith unluckily chopped onto his own stumps and Hayton was then adjudged LBW first ball and he too was back in the pavilion.
Woolpit had their tails up but Pipe had other ideas as he ably supported Woody in getting Milden over the 150 mark. Woody continued to play some nice shots but it was Pipe who was the aggressor, timing a beautiful cover drive for 4, leaving the fielder sprawling on the boundary. However, all good things come to an end and his entertaining knock of 13 was brought to an end when clean bowled. Matt Archer joined Woody for the last few balls and the score ended on 161 for 8 with Matt 1 not out and Woody 31 not out.
Tea was take and Matty Archer had surpassed himself with a range of homemade delights. The table covered in a nice red and white gingham cloth groaned under the weight of food Matt had prepared, knowing that he could be banished to Lavenham for failure to deliver egg sandwiches, Archer had stepped up his game, providing tasty platefuls of egg and cress sandwiches, TK nodded approvingly. These were joined by Tuna and cucumber, cheese and pickle, ham and to top it off, Prawn sandwiches, how far has our club come !! Archer was not finished there with homemade pizza/tarts and chicken nuggets on the side. Scones with clotted cream and jam, Victoria sponge and biscuits and fruit brought the feast to its epiphany, did he not know we had to go and field !!! Tea score 9.5 out of 10, well done Archer.
Milden waddled into the field and TK emphasised that they would have to work hard to get the Woolpit wickets on an ever flattening wicket. Hayton steamed in down the Milden hill and had the ball swinging and seaming at will. Smith at the other end, was his ever economical self, like a metronome, placing the ball on the spot. Hayton thought he had one nick behind but TK shelled a quick chance, murmurings from the umpire were he didn’t hit it, didn’t make anyone feel better. Hayton continued to bowl with skill and venom, bowling some absolute jaffa’s too good for Woolpit, between him and Smith the Woolpit innings had ground to a halt.
A break through was needed and Zahid replaced Hayton and after a couple of looseners was swinging the ball both ways, beating the bat. Big Alex eventually did find the edge and TK did the rest behind the stumps, snaffling the wicket of Tilbrook.
Joe Smith continued to run up the hill, was unlucky not to get a wicket and finished his 10 overs for only 12 runs with 5 maidens in his spell. Zahid then picked up another wicket, clean bowling Stanton for 2 and TK was able to bring the spin twins into the game, Wooderson and Archer. Woody bowled some great line and length, getting the arm ball to work and TK again shelled a sharp chance. Archer was not as straight but was giving it a real rip up the hill and he soon bowled the stubborn resistance of Godden. Woody bowled beautifully and made the Woolpit players play some false shots, really unlucky not to pick up a wicket, but his economy was tight.
Archer occasionally strayed down the leg side and went for the odd boundary but managed to keep the batsmen in check, however, Archer bowled some really good stuff but was rewarded with another wicket when he strayed down leg and the batsmen smashed it towards the boundary but Woody was waiting and he took an excellent catch in the deep. TK brought Zahid on after Archers great return of 2 for 31, to try and get the wickets flowing faster. The fielders were supporting the bowlers superbly with Every and Ward immaculate in the field.
Zahid came back and in his first over back clean bowled the Woolpit bat to set Milden on their way, the run rate was now near 8 an over and Woody was keeping any chances of a chase in check. However, the young Woolpit batsmen batted with confidence and technique and Milden were unable to get them out as they pushed the ball around to keep the scoreboard ticking over for the visitors.
Eventually, the innings closed in the 40 over with Woolpit 128 for 6, Milden winning by 55 runs. Another good win for Milden with people stepping into the team with selection challenges really testing the strength of the squad. The players retired to the Edwardstone White Horse where rounds of drinks were bought, Jay Phillips buying some jugs and then disappearing, welcome all the same. Mick and Ben looked after us as always with turkey sandwiches and chips, washed down with the finest cold beers.
We are getting down to the business end of the season and we are in a great position to get promoted and dare I say it, win the league. In our way stand our dearest friends and rivals Lavenham, as we make the short journey down the road to play them next week.
Every bit of support would be welcome.
UP THE MELDES !!!
Sunday 6th August 2017.
Hunts County League Division 4
Battisford and District 2nd XI 139 All out
Milden 209 for 5
Milden win by 70 runs
Milden travelled deep into the Suffolk countryside to face Battisford this week, arriving at a very picturesque and well appointed ground. The weather was set fair and following the wet weather on Saturday, Battisford still prepared a belter of a wicket.
TK was welcomed by the Battisford skipper and in the middle, TK called correctly for a change and there was no hesitation in electing to bat.
Boris and Jay Phillips opened the innings this week and played patiently as our opponents bowled some real tight lines and the young opening bowler Marriage steamed in down the hill, bowling with some real pace. However, Jay and Boris played watchfully, the former cutting and pulling anything short and after 10 overs Milden were 24 for no loss, slow start but a solid platform, very un-Mildenesque. The pair continued to plough on and played with more fluency as Battisford changed the bowling. The pair ran well between the wickets and anything loose was punished, Jay passed his fifty with a another cut to the boundary but soon after he injured himself, pulling is calf and unable to run. A runner was called on but Phillips just stood and delivered hitting the bowling around the ground.
Boris was the first to be dismissed in the 28th over for a gritty 29 clean bowled and Phillips was soon back in the hutch for an excellent 82, again clean bowled. Debutant Patel looked a good prospect with some cultured shots batting at 3 and he was joined by Humphries and the pair put on 30 before Chintesh was caught.
Humphries was joined by Zahid who started to accelerate the score in his usual manner with some towering sixes which were sent out the ground. Milden were at 180 when Zahid was eventually Bowled by Holman for a very brisk 22. The platform was set and TK took guard and started to push the score along with Humphries before he was Holman second scalp, bowled for 21.
Will Ward and TK pushed the score along as the overs began to run out and Will hit some lovely boundaries to finish on 11 not out and TK on 14 not out as Milden closed their innings on 209 for 5.
Tea was taken in the warm sunshine and the lovely pavilion that Battisford have. A delicious spread was laid on, coronation chicken, tuna and chicken and ham sandwiches, with savoury selections of sausages and scotch eggs. Lots of cakes and whilst everyone was tucking in, TK was seen in the kitchen hunting for the egg sandwiches, does not everyone read the match reports !!
Milden took to the field with TK donning the gloves due to Phillips’ injury. Smith bounded in down the hill and started off without his usual pace and venom and Every ran in up the slope at the other end.
The Batisford openers looked comfortable and anything loose was hit for 4 and they kept in touching distance of the run rate as Milden tried to get the breakthrough. A couple of chances went in the air off Smiths bowling but Milden could not get that first wicket.
Zahid was introduced into the attack and bowled with pace and swing and he made the critical breakthrough, trapping the dangerous looking Holman LBW in the 16th over, Battisford were 61 for 1. Soon they were 61 for 2 as Smith joined the party as he had T Marriage trapped LBW, plumb in front of the stumps for a duck. This was the spark Milden needed and the energy returned to the field as they sensed more wickets. The run rate had slowed right down and Smith continued to probe away with Zahid causing problems bowling up the slope.
Smith then clean bowled the other opener in his last over and Milden were into them and that pressure from Smith allowed Alex to really crank it up and again he got another wicket bowling Rusbrook with a beauty. Smith finished his 10 over, 2 for 20 and TK looked to Archer to see if he could continue the momentum.
Archer was straight on the mark, firing down the arrows and was soon into the wickets when he had Tucker trapped LBW and then bowled Singh with a full toss.Battisford dug in and TK looked to Pipe to see if he could pick up a wicket and with his first ball he was unlucky not to snaffle Henry when a mix up between Every and Patel saw the chance shelled. However, he continued to bowl some tight lines on his return. S Henry continued to pick up runs but Milden had now turned the screw firmly and Battisford needed over 10 an over to reach the winning total. Pipe then came to the party when Henry (junior) top edged a pull to the boundary and Zahid in an uncustomary position sweeping took a magnificent diving one handed catch to dismiss the young batsmen, mobbed by his team mates after.
Archer finished with his best figures for Milden, 3 for 27 as TK asked Patel to turn his arm. Chintesh was soon into the wickets as he picked up the two tail enders, first one clean bowled and TK catching a sharp nick behind the stumps to wrap up the Battisford innings, 139 all out.
A great victory for Milden, again played in a competitive and well mannered way, Battisford have a terrific club and ground and the youngsters they produce bodes well for their future. Both teams shared a few beers in the club house, why wouldn’t you at £2.50 a pint as the sun started to set.
Next week Milden host Woolpit which will be another tough game as they strive for promotion and the championship.
UP THE MELDES !!!
Hunts County League Division 4
Battisford and District 2nd XI 139 All out
Milden 209 for 5
Milden win by 70 runs
Milden travelled deep into the Suffolk countryside to face Battisford this week, arriving at a very picturesque and well appointed ground. The weather was set fair and following the wet weather on Saturday, Battisford still prepared a belter of a wicket.
TK was welcomed by the Battisford skipper and in the middle, TK called correctly for a change and there was no hesitation in electing to bat.
Boris and Jay Phillips opened the innings this week and played patiently as our opponents bowled some real tight lines and the young opening bowler Marriage steamed in down the hill, bowling with some real pace. However, Jay and Boris played watchfully, the former cutting and pulling anything short and after 10 overs Milden were 24 for no loss, slow start but a solid platform, very un-Mildenesque. The pair continued to plough on and played with more fluency as Battisford changed the bowling. The pair ran well between the wickets and anything loose was punished, Jay passed his fifty with a another cut to the boundary but soon after he injured himself, pulling is calf and unable to run. A runner was called on but Phillips just stood and delivered hitting the bowling around the ground.
Boris was the first to be dismissed in the 28th over for a gritty 29 clean bowled and Phillips was soon back in the hutch for an excellent 82, again clean bowled. Debutant Patel looked a good prospect with some cultured shots batting at 3 and he was joined by Humphries and the pair put on 30 before Chintesh was caught.
Humphries was joined by Zahid who started to accelerate the score in his usual manner with some towering sixes which were sent out the ground. Milden were at 180 when Zahid was eventually Bowled by Holman for a very brisk 22. The platform was set and TK took guard and started to push the score along with Humphries before he was Holman second scalp, bowled for 21.
Will Ward and TK pushed the score along as the overs began to run out and Will hit some lovely boundaries to finish on 11 not out and TK on 14 not out as Milden closed their innings on 209 for 5.
Tea was taken in the warm sunshine and the lovely pavilion that Battisford have. A delicious spread was laid on, coronation chicken, tuna and chicken and ham sandwiches, with savoury selections of sausages and scotch eggs. Lots of cakes and whilst everyone was tucking in, TK was seen in the kitchen hunting for the egg sandwiches, does not everyone read the match reports !!
Milden took to the field with TK donning the gloves due to Phillips’ injury. Smith bounded in down the hill and started off without his usual pace and venom and Every ran in up the slope at the other end.
The Batisford openers looked comfortable and anything loose was hit for 4 and they kept in touching distance of the run rate as Milden tried to get the breakthrough. A couple of chances went in the air off Smiths bowling but Milden could not get that first wicket.
Zahid was introduced into the attack and bowled with pace and swing and he made the critical breakthrough, trapping the dangerous looking Holman LBW in the 16th over, Battisford were 61 for 1. Soon they were 61 for 2 as Smith joined the party as he had T Marriage trapped LBW, plumb in front of the stumps for a duck. This was the spark Milden needed and the energy returned to the field as they sensed more wickets. The run rate had slowed right down and Smith continued to probe away with Zahid causing problems bowling up the slope.
Smith then clean bowled the other opener in his last over and Milden were into them and that pressure from Smith allowed Alex to really crank it up and again he got another wicket bowling Rusbrook with a beauty. Smith finished his 10 over, 2 for 20 and TK looked to Archer to see if he could continue the momentum.
Archer was straight on the mark, firing down the arrows and was soon into the wickets when he had Tucker trapped LBW and then bowled Singh with a full toss.Battisford dug in and TK looked to Pipe to see if he could pick up a wicket and with his first ball he was unlucky not to snaffle Henry when a mix up between Every and Patel saw the chance shelled. However, he continued to bowl some tight lines on his return. S Henry continued to pick up runs but Milden had now turned the screw firmly and Battisford needed over 10 an over to reach the winning total. Pipe then came to the party when Henry (junior) top edged a pull to the boundary and Zahid in an uncustomary position sweeping took a magnificent diving one handed catch to dismiss the young batsmen, mobbed by his team mates after.
Archer finished with his best figures for Milden, 3 for 27 as TK asked Patel to turn his arm. Chintesh was soon into the wickets as he picked up the two tail enders, first one clean bowled and TK catching a sharp nick behind the stumps to wrap up the Battisford innings, 139 all out.
A great victory for Milden, again played in a competitive and well mannered way, Battisford have a terrific club and ground and the youngsters they produce bodes well for their future. Both teams shared a few beers in the club house, why wouldn’t you at £2.50 a pint as the sun started to set.
Next week Milden host Woolpit which will be another tough game as they strive for promotion and the championship.
UP THE MELDES !!!
Hunts County League Division 4
Milden 164 for 5
Lakenheath 123 All Out
Milden win by 41 runs
Milden hosted third placed Lakenheath this week in what would prove to be another excellent advert for village cricket. Milden had managed to get the game on by covering the pitch up the night before keeping it dry from some torrential rain and also some terrific efforts from Ferris and Richard Harding in prepping the pitch and top work from JRB getting the square in good shape.
TK welcomed Ed Flack from Lakenheath and at the toss, Flack called correctly and asked Milden to bat. Milden kicked off with Cunningham and Zahid but the big fella was soon back in the hutch when he took on the Lakenheath quickie and saw his stumps splayed for 4 runs. Humphries did not trouble the scorer either when he as back in the pavilion for 0 and Milden were 7 for 2 in the 5th over.
TK and Cunningham weathered the early bowlers and managed to move the score on before Boris was stumped for 6 and Lakenheath tried to go through the order. However, the inform Wooderson joined TK and the pair put on a good stand of 34, TK looking comfortable and Woody playing some good attacking shops. However, TK took on the fielder in the covers and was run out for 20 trying to steal a quick run.
Lakenheath bowled and fielded very tightly and the run rate was slow but between Woody and Richard they began to take on the bowlers with some lovely shots finding the boundary and even a 5 being run to move the score along nicely. They put on an excellent partnership of 84, with Woody passing his 50 before he was caught in the deep trying to accelerate the run chase.
Smith joined Harding and they continued the pace of runs, Richard getting his 50 and Smith contributing and running well at the end to finish on 9 not out and Harding on 51 when the innings came to close after 40 overs had been bowled.
Tea was taken and James Harding donned the apron this week, even though he was not playing, and laid on a magnificent spread. Egg sandwiches a plenty were joined by coronation chicken, tuna mayo and some cheeky cheese sandwiches. The savoury enthusiast was not disappointed with sausage rolls, pork pies scotch eggs, and an array of crisps. Lots of excellent cake was served with hot tea and also a fresh selection of fruit. A really marvellous effort and especially taking the time to come up and do the tea and support the Meldes.
Milden took to the field and in the usual huddle TK stressed the point to his charges that they would need impeccable fielding and bowling to beat a dangerous Lakenheath batting line up, albeit they had only 9 players. Hayton and Smith opened the innings and Hayton bowled with real pace and venom and edges flew all over the place. Smith backed up his team mate and took an important wicket of the useful looking Palmer, nicking one behind which Harding caught smartly.
Hayton continued to run in down the hill but with no luck, but also no real runs being gained as Lakenheaths chase seemed to stall as they stood at 49 for 2 in the 16th over, Smith picking up his second wicket when Bond was well caught by Leppard.
TK turned to Archer to get a wicket and this he did clean bowling both Milner in his second over. Matty bowled with really good pace and control, keeping the Lakenheath batsmen guessing, he again was in the wickets in his 4 th over, again bowling L Flack superbly with a well flighted delivery.
Leppard had now replaced Hayton, who finished wicket less but only conceded 12 runs off his 7 overs. Leppard supported Archer magnificently, hooping the ball about and tying the batsmen in knots with his away swing. Again, Nick was really unlucky but he had put the brakes on the innings further with Archer only conceding 16 runs in his 5 over spell. TK replaced Archer with Every who bowled just a couple of overs and then came on himself with Wooderson running up the Milden Hill.
The team fielded excellently in support of the bowlers and TK made the breakthrough having Dupe nick one behind when on 49 and Milden sensed victory. Lakenheath dug in but could not accelerate their run chase as the run rate crept up from 6 to nearly 10 an over. Woody was soon into the wickets and he bowled the resilient and young Palmer for 16. TK got another and Woody wrapped up the innings when he bold Theobold with the penultimate ball of the innings to leave Lakenheath 123 All out.
A really good game played in a friendly and competitive spirit and Lakenheath showed that they are both a talented and classy team. Man of the match went to Wooderson with his terrific knock of 67. Both teams went to the White Horse where we were as always superbly looked after by Ben Abbott, sandwiches and roast potato, all washed down with jugs of beer.
Milden stay top and travel to Battisford next week.
UP THE MELDES !!!
Milden 164 for 5
Lakenheath 123 All Out
Milden win by 41 runs
Milden hosted third placed Lakenheath this week in what would prove to be another excellent advert for village cricket. Milden had managed to get the game on by covering the pitch up the night before keeping it dry from some torrential rain and also some terrific efforts from Ferris and Richard Harding in prepping the pitch and top work from JRB getting the square in good shape.
TK welcomed Ed Flack from Lakenheath and at the toss, Flack called correctly and asked Milden to bat. Milden kicked off with Cunningham and Zahid but the big fella was soon back in the hutch when he took on the Lakenheath quickie and saw his stumps splayed for 4 runs. Humphries did not trouble the scorer either when he as back in the pavilion for 0 and Milden were 7 for 2 in the 5th over.
TK and Cunningham weathered the early bowlers and managed to move the score on before Boris was stumped for 6 and Lakenheath tried to go through the order. However, the inform Wooderson joined TK and the pair put on a good stand of 34, TK looking comfortable and Woody playing some good attacking shops. However, TK took on the fielder in the covers and was run out for 20 trying to steal a quick run.
Lakenheath bowled and fielded very tightly and the run rate was slow but between Woody and Richard they began to take on the bowlers with some lovely shots finding the boundary and even a 5 being run to move the score along nicely. They put on an excellent partnership of 84, with Woody passing his 50 before he was caught in the deep trying to accelerate the run chase.
Smith joined Harding and they continued the pace of runs, Richard getting his 50 and Smith contributing and running well at the end to finish on 9 not out and Harding on 51 when the innings came to close after 40 overs had been bowled.
Tea was taken and James Harding donned the apron this week, even though he was not playing, and laid on a magnificent spread. Egg sandwiches a plenty were joined by coronation chicken, tuna mayo and some cheeky cheese sandwiches. The savoury enthusiast was not disappointed with sausage rolls, pork pies scotch eggs, and an array of crisps. Lots of excellent cake was served with hot tea and also a fresh selection of fruit. A really marvellous effort and especially taking the time to come up and do the tea and support the Meldes.
Milden took to the field and in the usual huddle TK stressed the point to his charges that they would need impeccable fielding and bowling to beat a dangerous Lakenheath batting line up, albeit they had only 9 players. Hayton and Smith opened the innings and Hayton bowled with real pace and venom and edges flew all over the place. Smith backed up his team mate and took an important wicket of the useful looking Palmer, nicking one behind which Harding caught smartly.
Hayton continued to run in down the hill but with no luck, but also no real runs being gained as Lakenheaths chase seemed to stall as they stood at 49 for 2 in the 16th over, Smith picking up his second wicket when Bond was well caught by Leppard.
TK turned to Archer to get a wicket and this he did clean bowling both Milner in his second over. Matty bowled with really good pace and control, keeping the Lakenheath batsmen guessing, he again was in the wickets in his 4 th over, again bowling L Flack superbly with a well flighted delivery.
Leppard had now replaced Hayton, who finished wicket less but only conceded 12 runs off his 7 overs. Leppard supported Archer magnificently, hooping the ball about and tying the batsmen in knots with his away swing. Again, Nick was really unlucky but he had put the brakes on the innings further with Archer only conceding 16 runs in his 5 over spell. TK replaced Archer with Every who bowled just a couple of overs and then came on himself with Wooderson running up the Milden Hill.
The team fielded excellently in support of the bowlers and TK made the breakthrough having Dupe nick one behind when on 49 and Milden sensed victory. Lakenheath dug in but could not accelerate their run chase as the run rate crept up from 6 to nearly 10 an over. Woody was soon into the wickets and he bowled the resilient and young Palmer for 16. TK got another and Woody wrapped up the innings when he bold Theobold with the penultimate ball of the innings to leave Lakenheath 123 All out.
A really good game played in a friendly and competitive spirit and Lakenheath showed that they are both a talented and classy team. Man of the match went to Wooderson with his terrific knock of 67. Both teams went to the White Horse where we were as always superbly looked after by Ben Abbott, sandwiches and roast potato, all washed down with jugs of beer.
Milden stay top and travel to Battisford next week.
UP THE MELDES !!!
Sunday 23rd July 2017.
Hunts County League Division 4
Milden 89 for 6
Earl Stonham 2nd XI 85 All out
Milden win by 4 wickets
Milden were at home this week in a top of the table clash against Earl Stonham who were positioned in 3rd place and ready to pounce on any slip up from the Meldes. Richard Harding and Alan Every had made a terrific effort with the pitch in what had been a bit of a wet week weather wise and TK had no hesitation in asking Luke Edgars charges to bat first when winning the toss.
The game got underway under grey skies and Hayton and Smith charged into the crease trying to get into the Stonham openers. Hayton bowled with real pace and Harding had to be on his game to field tidily behind the stumps. Smith too started well have a couple of edges evade the diving slip fielders but chances were being created. However, the game was interrupted a couple of times for rain showers but the players managed to use the covers to keep most of the rain off the wicket.
After a couple of stop starts, it was Smith who made in roads first taking the wicket of J Dye which was well caught by Woody in the covers in the 10th over. Hayton continued to beat the bat but was unlucky not to get a wicket but between Hayton and Smith they had only conceded 38 runs in the first 14 overs, Hayton finishing wicketless but conceding only 28 of his 8 overs.TK rested Hayton and Wooderson came into the attack and after a loose first over was into the wickets having the opener Lewis caught well by Zahid at slip.
Smioth finished his spell of 10 overs with no more wickets but again, like Hayton, bowled tightly off his 10 with figures of 1 for 18. Woody was causing real problems for the Stonham batsmen with his controlled flight and pace and soon picked up another wicket having the resilient Eade well caught by Phillips off a leading edge.
At the other end TK was wheeling away and he too picked up a wicket clean bowling skipper Edgar but importantly, Milden were turning the screw and drying up the runs. TK and Woody bowled some tight lines and were magnificently supported in the field by their team mates, in particular Boris, Leppard Archer and Ward putting their bodies in the way to keep boundaries to a minimum. TK continued to bowl maidens and Woody confused the Stonham batsmen with his flight and varied pace. He again was in the wicket bowling McCrow all ends up.
TK then suddenly got stuck into the tail when he picked up another wicket in his 5th over and his 7th to leave Stonham looking at a below 100 score. Woody got his 4th wicket in his last over, caught by Leppard, to finish with 4 wickets for 25 off his 10. TK then mopped up the tail with two wickets in his 8th over to bowl out our guests for 85 finishing with his first ever 5 wicket haul for Milden conceding only 9 runs.
Tea this week was arranged by Mrs Cunningham who laid on a terrific spread of sandwiches, the egg were excellent 9/10, all about the seasoning. Hot pizza was accompanied by cakes galore as both sides tucked into tea outside in the now warm and sunny afternoon.
Milden being Milden, chasing a small target got off to the worse possible start, Boris played on for 1, Phillips nicked one behind after he looked comfortable caressing a magnificent drive for 4, Ward sent back LBW for 0. Big Alex looked perplexed as he tried to rebuild the innings with Wooderson and the pair started to accumulate runs, Alex hitting some big shots to move the score along. However, he too was out when he edged one behind for 20 and Stonham had their tails up and sniffed a chance of victory. However, Woody kept calm and punished any loose bowling as joined by TK they put on a small partnership to move the score past 50. However, TK was bowled by Thurston and Smith kept supporting Woody as Milden edged towards the total. With plenty of overs to play with, this was about holding our nerve and the nerves were frayed when Smith chipped to mid wicket for 6 to leave Milden 66 for 6.
But Woody showed complete calmness as he pushed the ball around and with the support of the equally cool Harding, they dragged the game back for Milden. Woody smashed anything short and Harding too punished anything loose with some punishing pull shots. In the 24th over, Woody hit the winning runs off McCrow with tow terrify boundaries to give Milden the 20 points.
A good and important win for Milden which should have been much easier in chasing such a low total. Again, the team bowled and fielded magnificently, to defeat a good Earl Stonham team but Milden will have to focus further on their batting if they have any hope of winning the league this year.
Some good performances his week but man of the match goes to Woody for his good bowling and even more important batting, well done.
Next week Milden are at home to Lakenheath which will prove to be another testing fixture. WE will also be celebrating Greg Haytons marriage (Thursday) with a few beers after the game on Sunday. Congratulations and good luck to Mr and Mrs Hayton to be.
UP THE MELDES !!!
Hunts County League Division 4
Milden 89 for 6
Earl Stonham 2nd XI 85 All out
Milden win by 4 wickets
Milden were at home this week in a top of the table clash against Earl Stonham who were positioned in 3rd place and ready to pounce on any slip up from the Meldes. Richard Harding and Alan Every had made a terrific effort with the pitch in what had been a bit of a wet week weather wise and TK had no hesitation in asking Luke Edgars charges to bat first when winning the toss.
The game got underway under grey skies and Hayton and Smith charged into the crease trying to get into the Stonham openers. Hayton bowled with real pace and Harding had to be on his game to field tidily behind the stumps. Smith too started well have a couple of edges evade the diving slip fielders but chances were being created. However, the game was interrupted a couple of times for rain showers but the players managed to use the covers to keep most of the rain off the wicket.
After a couple of stop starts, it was Smith who made in roads first taking the wicket of J Dye which was well caught by Woody in the covers in the 10th over. Hayton continued to beat the bat but was unlucky not to get a wicket but between Hayton and Smith they had only conceded 38 runs in the first 14 overs, Hayton finishing wicketless but conceding only 28 of his 8 overs.TK rested Hayton and Wooderson came into the attack and after a loose first over was into the wickets having the opener Lewis caught well by Zahid at slip.
Smioth finished his spell of 10 overs with no more wickets but again, like Hayton, bowled tightly off his 10 with figures of 1 for 18. Woody was causing real problems for the Stonham batsmen with his controlled flight and pace and soon picked up another wicket having the resilient Eade well caught by Phillips off a leading edge.
At the other end TK was wheeling away and he too picked up a wicket clean bowling skipper Edgar but importantly, Milden were turning the screw and drying up the runs. TK and Woody bowled some tight lines and were magnificently supported in the field by their team mates, in particular Boris, Leppard Archer and Ward putting their bodies in the way to keep boundaries to a minimum. TK continued to bowl maidens and Woody confused the Stonham batsmen with his flight and varied pace. He again was in the wicket bowling McCrow all ends up.
TK then suddenly got stuck into the tail when he picked up another wicket in his 5th over and his 7th to leave Stonham looking at a below 100 score. Woody got his 4th wicket in his last over, caught by Leppard, to finish with 4 wickets for 25 off his 10. TK then mopped up the tail with two wickets in his 8th over to bowl out our guests for 85 finishing with his first ever 5 wicket haul for Milden conceding only 9 runs.
Tea this week was arranged by Mrs Cunningham who laid on a terrific spread of sandwiches, the egg were excellent 9/10, all about the seasoning. Hot pizza was accompanied by cakes galore as both sides tucked into tea outside in the now warm and sunny afternoon.
Milden being Milden, chasing a small target got off to the worse possible start, Boris played on for 1, Phillips nicked one behind after he looked comfortable caressing a magnificent drive for 4, Ward sent back LBW for 0. Big Alex looked perplexed as he tried to rebuild the innings with Wooderson and the pair started to accumulate runs, Alex hitting some big shots to move the score along. However, he too was out when he edged one behind for 20 and Stonham had their tails up and sniffed a chance of victory. However, Woody kept calm and punished any loose bowling as joined by TK they put on a small partnership to move the score past 50. However, TK was bowled by Thurston and Smith kept supporting Woody as Milden edged towards the total. With plenty of overs to play with, this was about holding our nerve and the nerves were frayed when Smith chipped to mid wicket for 6 to leave Milden 66 for 6.
But Woody showed complete calmness as he pushed the ball around and with the support of the equally cool Harding, they dragged the game back for Milden. Woody smashed anything short and Harding too punished anything loose with some punishing pull shots. In the 24th over, Woody hit the winning runs off McCrow with tow terrify boundaries to give Milden the 20 points.
A good and important win for Milden which should have been much easier in chasing such a low total. Again, the team bowled and fielded magnificently, to defeat a good Earl Stonham team but Milden will have to focus further on their batting if they have any hope of winning the league this year.
Some good performances his week but man of the match goes to Woody for his good bowling and even more important batting, well done.
Next week Milden are at home to Lakenheath which will prove to be another testing fixture. WE will also be celebrating Greg Haytons marriage (Thursday) with a few beers after the game on Sunday. Congratulations and good luck to Mr and Mrs Hayton to be.
UP THE MELDES !!!
Sunday 9th July 2017.
Hunts County League Division 4
Milden Cricket Club 159 All out
Stowupland 2nd XI 133 All Out
Milden win by 28 runs
Milden travelled to Stowupland this week to take on the team that had beaten Lavenham the week before, Milden fresh off a victory against Hadleigh. The Meldes arrived in good time to a picturesque ground, the vista dominated by the local church. On a warm but initially overcast day, TK went out to the middle with the opposition captain and called heads and decided to bat when the coin fell in his favour.
Boris had a new partner this week in the shape of big Alex Zahid. The pair got off to a flying start racing the Milden score to 64 off the first 11 overs, Boris cut drove and pulled nicely but big Alex was the dominant bat, smashing anything short or wide to the boundary, it was raining sixes and fours. Boris supported well until the 16th over when he was adjudged LBW and Phillips replaced him.
Stowupland had rotated their bowling and were reigning in the runs and a poor call from Phillips saw him sent back and was run out smartly, taking a whack to the head as he clashed with the wicket keeper.
Pat Humphries joined Zahid but after playing a missing at a couple, nicked one behind and Milden were now 79 for 3 after 18. TK joined Alex and the pair provided some stability to the innings, scoring was hard, but maintaining wickets in hand was important. Zahid still took on the bowlers, picking shots of middle stump and frustrating the bowlers. TK paid patiently in support the score had reached 107, when Big Alex mistimed and was caught by the keeper for a magnificent 81. TK soon followed him when playing an identical shot and was back in the pavilion for 4.
The rest of the innings was about putting up a competitive total and their were contributions from all the batsmen, Harding tried to push the score on but was well run pout for 4 with a direct hit, Ward showed resistance with 9 runs before he padded up to a straight one and was given up LBW.
Smith hit a quick fire 15 and helped marshall the tail with St Ledger, before he knicked one behind, St Ledge scored 5 and it was the last wicket pairing of Leppard and Archer that got Milden to 159, Leppard falling to the last ball of the innings, stumped for 9
Tea was taken in the village hall and a magnificent spread was laid on, the table groaned under the weight of sandwiches, cakes and sausage rolls. I think it may have been even the best away tea we have had this year. The egg sandwiches were excellent, being offered in both white and brown bread varieties, excellent seasoning too.
Milden took to the field, not before they had met up with Mr Chairman, Martin Roffey who had been absent for a while and it was great to see him. Milden had gathered some additional supporters in the form of Rich Stennet and James Pipe with the ever keen Mrs Every keeping Ferris company as he had been scoring and commentating on the game from the beginning.
Smith came in down the slight slope as Milden searched for wickets, Leppard supporting him from the other end. Smith beat the bat and saw edges fly either short or over the slip cordone but was unable to snaffle a wicket. Leppard made the important breakthrough as he had opener Long well caught at slip by Zahid who had three or four goes at it. Two balls later, Archer took a magnificent catch at point, diving to his right to take a sharp chance, mobbed by his team mates after. Leppard had his second but more importantly, it had given us the lift we needed. Smith carried on down the hill and was exceptionally unlucky not to get a wicket as he continued to beat the bat but he helped Leppard who the batsmen tried to go after and Jay Phillips took as snorter of a catch at gully and saw the dangerous opener back into the pavilion.
But wickets were required, Smith finished his spell of 10 overs for 41 but more importantly got his just rewards with a wicket in his final over and Leppard had now been replaced by Zahid, taking 3 for 26 off 7. Zahid was soon into the action picking up a wicket with his 3rd ball which was well caught, then again in the fourth over, bowling the dangerous number 6 off his pads with a lovely swinging delivery.
TK wheeled away at the other end but Stowupland were accumulating runs and soon passed 100 with plenty of overs to spare and A Parkin was marshalling the tail well, when Zahid picked up his 3rd wicket with another clean bowled, Parkin decided to try and push the score on even faster as wickets tumbled.
TK picked up a wicket, clean bowling N Smith and then the key wicket of Parkin was superbly taken by Pat in the covers, taking a terrific low catch that was driven had at him and Stowupland were 9 down. The ever green Sturgeon who had supported Parkin well decided to push the pedal down and opened up but could not get Zahid away.
TK bowled his first three deliveries of the next over and saw the ball sail over the boundary three times as Sturgeon hit consecutive sixes and it was getting close. However, TK held his nerve and a good Yorker put paid to Stowuplands valiant run chase as he clean bowled the veteran.
Another great performance from the Mildeners in the field, but we could do so much better with the bat. However, we never know when we are beaten and there were some really good performances this week.
Rich Harding kept wicket magnificently and without fuss, ensuring only one bye was conceded. Really good catches were taken by Archer, Phillips and Zahid, Smith was excellent in his spell and Leppard got the ball rolling with some important wickets. But man of thematch goes to Big Alex Zahid, an destructive 81 with the bat and 4 for 16 off his 7 overs see’s him get the beans for his man of the match performance.
A big thank you must go to Alan Every, although injured, still gave up his Sunday to come along and score, give live updates via social media and just display what this club is all about. Thank you to Stowupland for playing a competitive game in the right way and to our supporters, it makes a difference when you come and watch.
UP THE MELDES !!!
Hunts County League Division 4
Milden Cricket Club 159 All out
Stowupland 2nd XI 133 All Out
Milden win by 28 runs
Milden travelled to Stowupland this week to take on the team that had beaten Lavenham the week before, Milden fresh off a victory against Hadleigh. The Meldes arrived in good time to a picturesque ground, the vista dominated by the local church. On a warm but initially overcast day, TK went out to the middle with the opposition captain and called heads and decided to bat when the coin fell in his favour.
Boris had a new partner this week in the shape of big Alex Zahid. The pair got off to a flying start racing the Milden score to 64 off the first 11 overs, Boris cut drove and pulled nicely but big Alex was the dominant bat, smashing anything short or wide to the boundary, it was raining sixes and fours. Boris supported well until the 16th over when he was adjudged LBW and Phillips replaced him.
Stowupland had rotated their bowling and were reigning in the runs and a poor call from Phillips saw him sent back and was run out smartly, taking a whack to the head as he clashed with the wicket keeper.
Pat Humphries joined Zahid but after playing a missing at a couple, nicked one behind and Milden were now 79 for 3 after 18. TK joined Alex and the pair provided some stability to the innings, scoring was hard, but maintaining wickets in hand was important. Zahid still took on the bowlers, picking shots of middle stump and frustrating the bowlers. TK paid patiently in support the score had reached 107, when Big Alex mistimed and was caught by the keeper for a magnificent 81. TK soon followed him when playing an identical shot and was back in the pavilion for 4.
The rest of the innings was about putting up a competitive total and their were contributions from all the batsmen, Harding tried to push the score on but was well run pout for 4 with a direct hit, Ward showed resistance with 9 runs before he padded up to a straight one and was given up LBW.
Smith hit a quick fire 15 and helped marshall the tail with St Ledger, before he knicked one behind, St Ledge scored 5 and it was the last wicket pairing of Leppard and Archer that got Milden to 159, Leppard falling to the last ball of the innings, stumped for 9
Tea was taken in the village hall and a magnificent spread was laid on, the table groaned under the weight of sandwiches, cakes and sausage rolls. I think it may have been even the best away tea we have had this year. The egg sandwiches were excellent, being offered in both white and brown bread varieties, excellent seasoning too.
Milden took to the field, not before they had met up with Mr Chairman, Martin Roffey who had been absent for a while and it was great to see him. Milden had gathered some additional supporters in the form of Rich Stennet and James Pipe with the ever keen Mrs Every keeping Ferris company as he had been scoring and commentating on the game from the beginning.
Smith came in down the slight slope as Milden searched for wickets, Leppard supporting him from the other end. Smith beat the bat and saw edges fly either short or over the slip cordone but was unable to snaffle a wicket. Leppard made the important breakthrough as he had opener Long well caught at slip by Zahid who had three or four goes at it. Two balls later, Archer took a magnificent catch at point, diving to his right to take a sharp chance, mobbed by his team mates after. Leppard had his second but more importantly, it had given us the lift we needed. Smith carried on down the hill and was exceptionally unlucky not to get a wicket as he continued to beat the bat but he helped Leppard who the batsmen tried to go after and Jay Phillips took as snorter of a catch at gully and saw the dangerous opener back into the pavilion.
But wickets were required, Smith finished his spell of 10 overs for 41 but more importantly got his just rewards with a wicket in his final over and Leppard had now been replaced by Zahid, taking 3 for 26 off 7. Zahid was soon into the action picking up a wicket with his 3rd ball which was well caught, then again in the fourth over, bowling the dangerous number 6 off his pads with a lovely swinging delivery.
TK wheeled away at the other end but Stowupland were accumulating runs and soon passed 100 with plenty of overs to spare and A Parkin was marshalling the tail well, when Zahid picked up his 3rd wicket with another clean bowled, Parkin decided to try and push the score on even faster as wickets tumbled.
TK picked up a wicket, clean bowling N Smith and then the key wicket of Parkin was superbly taken by Pat in the covers, taking a terrific low catch that was driven had at him and Stowupland were 9 down. The ever green Sturgeon who had supported Parkin well decided to push the pedal down and opened up but could not get Zahid away.
TK bowled his first three deliveries of the next over and saw the ball sail over the boundary three times as Sturgeon hit consecutive sixes and it was getting close. However, TK held his nerve and a good Yorker put paid to Stowuplands valiant run chase as he clean bowled the veteran.
Another great performance from the Mildeners in the field, but we could do so much better with the bat. However, we never know when we are beaten and there were some really good performances this week.
Rich Harding kept wicket magnificently and without fuss, ensuring only one bye was conceded. Really good catches were taken by Archer, Phillips and Zahid, Smith was excellent in his spell and Leppard got the ball rolling with some important wickets. But man of thematch goes to Big Alex Zahid, an destructive 81 with the bat and 4 for 16 off his 7 overs see’s him get the beans for his man of the match performance.
A big thank you must go to Alan Every, although injured, still gave up his Sunday to come along and score, give live updates via social media and just display what this club is all about. Thank you to Stowupland for playing a competitive game in the right way and to our supporters, it makes a difference when you come and watch.
UP THE MELDES !!!
Sunday 2nd July 2017.
Hunts County League Division 4
Hadleigh Cricket Club 163 All Out
Milden Cricket Club 178 for 9
Milden won by 15 runs
Milden made the short trip on a beautiful summers day to our close neighbours Hadleigh, a wonderful ground to play at, always a good wicket and a new pavilion extension to boot. TK was warmly received by Hadleigh skipper Buster Tampion and the two discussed each others seasons, TK won the toss for a change and had no hesitation in batting.
Tim and Boris opened with Boris playing a couple of neat shots before Tim was bowled for 0. Jay joined Boris at the crease and watched as the normally restrained Cunningham hammered anything short or offline to the boundary. The scoreboard ticked along at 4 an over with both players playing watchfully but punishing anything offline and some smart running between the wickets.
It wasn’t until the 16th over that a wicket fell when Boris was caught for 31 trying to it another ball for 4, Milden were 67 for 2. Humphries joined Phillips and the two again pushed the score on until Humphries was adjudged LBW for 8. TK strode to the crease and was soon back in the pavilion for 0, again being generously given out LBW.
A mini batting collapse ensued when Zahid was dismissed in the deep, well caught for 4 and Phillips was cleaned up trying to move the score along for a classy 36. The scoreboard stood still and wickets had fallen, from a decent position Milden found themselves 92 for 6 with Duffy and Harding at the crease. However, both batsmen dug in to steady the ship and soon the pair started to swashbuckler their way past 100 and beyond, some excellent cuts and pulls backed up with some very smart and hard running between the wickets.
Hadleigh began to lose their discipline as Harding and Duffy continued to pick the runs out and they pushed the score to 156 in the 38th over, Will Ward joined Duffy when Harding was finally bowled for a gutsy 38, but was back in the pavilion for 0. Joe Smith rotated the strike to give Tom Duffy the opportunity to push more runs before he was bowled for a terrific 36 and Smithy and Leppard saw out the innings and milden finished for a below par but could have been worse 178.
Tea was taken in the pavilion and Hadleigh laid on a very good spread, they must of heard TK was coming as the egg sandwiches were top notch, surrounded by mini scotch eggs, chicken nuggets, crisps and cake. TK though the melon was for show but Joe Smith assured him this was perfectly normal to be served.
Knowing they had under performed with the bat, TK galvanised the team in the usual huddle to continue the excellent fielding and bowling displays if we had any ambition to win the game and beat the current league leaders.
Smithy and Leppard opened the bowling and the pair bowled beautifully, no boundaries were given until the 10th over and even then Hadleigh found it hard to score. Smith broke the partnership when he had T Locke trapped LBW and Milden saw ex player Willis come to the crease. Smith and Leppard continued to bowl tightly frustrating the batsmen until Smith caught and bowled Wilding and then followed up with 4 overs of maidens. Leppard in the meantime was going about his business in usual unassuming style, tying an end up and was very unlucky not to pick up a couple of wickets.
Smith dismissed Willis for 4 when TK took a smart catch, diving forward at short cover to send him back to the pavilion, Smith immediately dismissed T Locke (junior) for 0 next ball trapping the youngster in front of the furniture, before he had Bottley superbly caught by Humpries in the glaring sun.
Smith had his five wickets and from his ten overs only went for 10, Leppard again unlucky with wickets but finished his spell conceding only 36 on a flat pitch and fast outfield, more importantly, Milden had put Hadleigh under some pressure.
TK picked up the mantle and he and Zahid tried to remove the dangerous father and some combo of A and S Tampion. However, Zahid leaked a few fours early on but A Tampion seemed to want to smack TK out of the park, the result was he was back in the pavilion for 11. Hadleigh continued to accumulate runs as the batsmen took a liking to Zahids loose bowling and in particular S Tampion using is experience to put much need runs on the board. O Tampion at the other end supported his partner, TK rotated the bowling as Zahid went for a few too many and Duffy replaced him but after a difficult over was again replaced by Pat Humphries. TK managed to deceive O Tampion with a slower ball and Leppard safely pouched the catch at short cover. Pat turned the screw with some magnificent tight bowling and superbly supported in the field by everyone, in particular Ward who always seemed to be a magnet for the ball.
The game changed when TK cleaned bowled the dangerous S Tampion for 49 as Hadleigh zeroed in on the Milden total, Jay Philips wise words kept everyone in check and focused as TK picked up his fourth wicket and the skipper turned to Zahid again to get the final wicket, with only 16 needed in 4 overs Zahid bowled an excellent maiden, TK followed up and in the 38th over big Alex took the final wicket to then be mobbed by his team mates and Milden won the game.
A very good and close game that swung one way and then next but Milden again wanted it a bit more and dug in to take the 20 points, a superb bowling and fielding performance made up for the below par score, but Cunningham, Duffy, Phillips and man of the match Richard Harding gave us a fighting chance.
We had a few beers with some of the opposition and then decamped to the Edwardstone White Horse for beers and crisps, some would say we use these sessions to build team spirit, I would say club spirit, and todays performance showed that.
Next week Milden are away to Stowupland, all support welcome and we are now second in the league.
UP THE MELDES !!!
Hunts County League Division 4
Hadleigh Cricket Club 163 All Out
Milden Cricket Club 178 for 9
Milden won by 15 runs
Milden made the short trip on a beautiful summers day to our close neighbours Hadleigh, a wonderful ground to play at, always a good wicket and a new pavilion extension to boot. TK was warmly received by Hadleigh skipper Buster Tampion and the two discussed each others seasons, TK won the toss for a change and had no hesitation in batting.
Tim and Boris opened with Boris playing a couple of neat shots before Tim was bowled for 0. Jay joined Boris at the crease and watched as the normally restrained Cunningham hammered anything short or offline to the boundary. The scoreboard ticked along at 4 an over with both players playing watchfully but punishing anything offline and some smart running between the wickets.
It wasn’t until the 16th over that a wicket fell when Boris was caught for 31 trying to it another ball for 4, Milden were 67 for 2. Humphries joined Phillips and the two again pushed the score on until Humphries was adjudged LBW for 8. TK strode to the crease and was soon back in the pavilion for 0, again being generously given out LBW.
A mini batting collapse ensued when Zahid was dismissed in the deep, well caught for 4 and Phillips was cleaned up trying to move the score along for a classy 36. The scoreboard stood still and wickets had fallen, from a decent position Milden found themselves 92 for 6 with Duffy and Harding at the crease. However, both batsmen dug in to steady the ship and soon the pair started to swashbuckler their way past 100 and beyond, some excellent cuts and pulls backed up with some very smart and hard running between the wickets.
Hadleigh began to lose their discipline as Harding and Duffy continued to pick the runs out and they pushed the score to 156 in the 38th over, Will Ward joined Duffy when Harding was finally bowled for a gutsy 38, but was back in the pavilion for 0. Joe Smith rotated the strike to give Tom Duffy the opportunity to push more runs before he was bowled for a terrific 36 and Smithy and Leppard saw out the innings and milden finished for a below par but could have been worse 178.
Tea was taken in the pavilion and Hadleigh laid on a very good spread, they must of heard TK was coming as the egg sandwiches were top notch, surrounded by mini scotch eggs, chicken nuggets, crisps and cake. TK though the melon was for show but Joe Smith assured him this was perfectly normal to be served.
Knowing they had under performed with the bat, TK galvanised the team in the usual huddle to continue the excellent fielding and bowling displays if we had any ambition to win the game and beat the current league leaders.
Smithy and Leppard opened the bowling and the pair bowled beautifully, no boundaries were given until the 10th over and even then Hadleigh found it hard to score. Smith broke the partnership when he had T Locke trapped LBW and Milden saw ex player Willis come to the crease. Smith and Leppard continued to bowl tightly frustrating the batsmen until Smith caught and bowled Wilding and then followed up with 4 overs of maidens. Leppard in the meantime was going about his business in usual unassuming style, tying an end up and was very unlucky not to pick up a couple of wickets.
Smith dismissed Willis for 4 when TK took a smart catch, diving forward at short cover to send him back to the pavilion, Smith immediately dismissed T Locke (junior) for 0 next ball trapping the youngster in front of the furniture, before he had Bottley superbly caught by Humpries in the glaring sun.
Smith had his five wickets and from his ten overs only went for 10, Leppard again unlucky with wickets but finished his spell conceding only 36 on a flat pitch and fast outfield, more importantly, Milden had put Hadleigh under some pressure.
TK picked up the mantle and he and Zahid tried to remove the dangerous father and some combo of A and S Tampion. However, Zahid leaked a few fours early on but A Tampion seemed to want to smack TK out of the park, the result was he was back in the pavilion for 11. Hadleigh continued to accumulate runs as the batsmen took a liking to Zahids loose bowling and in particular S Tampion using is experience to put much need runs on the board. O Tampion at the other end supported his partner, TK rotated the bowling as Zahid went for a few too many and Duffy replaced him but after a difficult over was again replaced by Pat Humphries. TK managed to deceive O Tampion with a slower ball and Leppard safely pouched the catch at short cover. Pat turned the screw with some magnificent tight bowling and superbly supported in the field by everyone, in particular Ward who always seemed to be a magnet for the ball.
The game changed when TK cleaned bowled the dangerous S Tampion for 49 as Hadleigh zeroed in on the Milden total, Jay Philips wise words kept everyone in check and focused as TK picked up his fourth wicket and the skipper turned to Zahid again to get the final wicket, with only 16 needed in 4 overs Zahid bowled an excellent maiden, TK followed up and in the 38th over big Alex took the final wicket to then be mobbed by his team mates and Milden won the game.
A very good and close game that swung one way and then next but Milden again wanted it a bit more and dug in to take the 20 points, a superb bowling and fielding performance made up for the below par score, but Cunningham, Duffy, Phillips and man of the match Richard Harding gave us a fighting chance.
We had a few beers with some of the opposition and then decamped to the Edwardstone White Horse for beers and crisps, some would say we use these sessions to build team spirit, I would say club spirit, and todays performance showed that.
Next week Milden are away to Stowupland, all support welcome and we are now second in the league.
UP THE MELDES !!!
Sunday 18th June 2017.
Hunts County League Division 4
Stowupland 2nd XI 85 All Out
Milden Cricket Club 86 for 1
Milden win by 9 wickets
On an absolute scorcher of a day, Milden welcomed our guests from Stowupland to Church Lane for this Division 4 encounter. Milden had not played Stowupland for a few years due to their successive promotions but on a beautiful and hot day, TK went to middle and then proceeded to lose the toss and the Stowupland skipper had no hesitation in electing to bat.
TK rallied the troops in their customary huddle, demanding that they focus and bounce back from their loss last week and gave it plenty of beans in the field. Alan Every and Joe Smith opened the attack, both bowling some tight lines, Ferris took an over or two to get his rhythm but both bowlers were well supported in the field. An early chance was put down off Smiths bowling before he ripped through the defences of mills, clean bowling him for 7. At the other end, the ‘King of Milden’ continued to bowl tightly in the hot conditions, probing away. Smith soon had another wicket when he bowled Bennett with an absolutely, starting somewhere outside Monks Eleigh and cutting back to take the top of off stump.
Smith could of taken another when Parkin was dropped again but Milden continued to dominate the batsmen.
TK rotated the bowling and asked Archer and Zahid to pick up the mantle. Archer started with a couple of loose overs, trying to get his lines right but Zahid was soon onto his straps, getting the batsmen to play and miss regularily. Soon Zahid picked up the wicket of the dangerous looking Parkin, bowling him cleanly and again he was soon to strike, removing Murton’s middle stump for 1.
The runs had dried up for Stowupland and they were in deeper trouble when Archer picked up his first wicket, well caught at slip by Zahid, Stowupland were 44 for 4 and soon for 5 when Zahid snaffled a third wicket for himself. Tk replaced Zahid for a few overs and picked up the wicket of Stephens with a well taken caught and bowled from one that he skied whilst attempting pull shot.
TK rotated the bowling again and asked Smith to come on back down the hill as Milden tried to finish the game against a resolute display from the Stowupland tail, not helping themselves with a number of dropped catches but soon they were able to get back in the pavilion when Smith picked up another couple of wickets, one clean bowled and the final wicket taken as a catch by Boris (Hallelujah!!) to wrap up the Stowupland innings, bowling them out for 85, Smith finishing with an excellent 4 wicket for 12 runs and the equally impressive Zahid, 3 wickets for just 6 runs.
Tea was taken and the Legend that is St Ledger picked up the baton this week, would he fear being dropped for the rest of his life if no egg sandwiches were produced, no fear, St Ledger came up trumps with a terrific spread, the egg sandwiches were magnificent, superbly seasoned and a mix of white and brown bread versions. This was accompanied by a range of sausage rolls, quiches and scotch eggs. The tuna and cucumber went down well too, some new pots and toms and carrot sticks for the morehealthy amongst us. Tea was provide but due to it being so hot the squash got a hammering, but homemade cakes from the St Ledger family were still demolished. Well done St Ledge.
During tea, we received a running commentary from the quiet man Alex Zahid on the Pakistan v India game in the ICC Trophy final, normally in the skippers ear wanting to bat the up the order, the big fella was happy to see Mohammed Amir destroy Kohli and friends in the top order.
TK asked Boris and Jay Phillips to open the batting and both made a steady if not well timed start as they struggled initially with their timing. However, some intelligent running gave them the opportunity to play themselves in as the Stowupland bowlers struggled in the now stifling heat of the afternoon. Phillips played some majestic cover drives to tick the score along and Boris weighed in with a lovely four but in the 15th over, tried to pull a short one and mistimed to be caught at square leg for 15, Milden were 55 for 1. No collapse this week as Humphries joined Phillips and they punished anything short or wide to race the score along to 85, some terrific shots were played with no chances giver as in the 20th over, Phillips clipped on to the covers and they ran through to pick up the single run needed for victory.
A great win this week following our loss to Earl Stonham, really tough conditions on a very hot day, but we stuck to our guns and won the 20 points well.
Milden retired to the Edwardstone White Horse where we were splendidly looked after by Ben Abbott, roast potato’s, sausages and ham sandwiches were laid on as Milden sank plenty of cold ones and toasted a well deserved victory.
Man of the match this week went to Joe Smith again, running in down the hill and getting wickets at important times. However, some good all round performances in what was a relatively short game, nice to see Phillips get some runs, Archer and St Ledger turned their arms and have not done so for a while and bowled well, Ferris ran in up the Milden hill in very hot conditions and bowled some nice overs.
No league game next week but Milden are involved in a cup competition, details will follow on the usual social media outlets and the website.
UP THE MELDES !!!
Hunts County League Division 4
Stowupland 2nd XI 85 All Out
Milden Cricket Club 86 for 1
Milden win by 9 wickets
On an absolute scorcher of a day, Milden welcomed our guests from Stowupland to Church Lane for this Division 4 encounter. Milden had not played Stowupland for a few years due to their successive promotions but on a beautiful and hot day, TK went to middle and then proceeded to lose the toss and the Stowupland skipper had no hesitation in electing to bat.
TK rallied the troops in their customary huddle, demanding that they focus and bounce back from their loss last week and gave it plenty of beans in the field. Alan Every and Joe Smith opened the attack, both bowling some tight lines, Ferris took an over or two to get his rhythm but both bowlers were well supported in the field. An early chance was put down off Smiths bowling before he ripped through the defences of mills, clean bowling him for 7. At the other end, the ‘King of Milden’ continued to bowl tightly in the hot conditions, probing away. Smith soon had another wicket when he bowled Bennett with an absolutely, starting somewhere outside Monks Eleigh and cutting back to take the top of off stump.
Smith could of taken another when Parkin was dropped again but Milden continued to dominate the batsmen.
TK rotated the bowling and asked Archer and Zahid to pick up the mantle. Archer started with a couple of loose overs, trying to get his lines right but Zahid was soon onto his straps, getting the batsmen to play and miss regularily. Soon Zahid picked up the wicket of the dangerous looking Parkin, bowling him cleanly and again he was soon to strike, removing Murton’s middle stump for 1.
The runs had dried up for Stowupland and they were in deeper trouble when Archer picked up his first wicket, well caught at slip by Zahid, Stowupland were 44 for 4 and soon for 5 when Zahid snaffled a third wicket for himself. Tk replaced Zahid for a few overs and picked up the wicket of Stephens with a well taken caught and bowled from one that he skied whilst attempting pull shot.
TK rotated the bowling again and asked Smith to come on back down the hill as Milden tried to finish the game against a resolute display from the Stowupland tail, not helping themselves with a number of dropped catches but soon they were able to get back in the pavilion when Smith picked up another couple of wickets, one clean bowled and the final wicket taken as a catch by Boris (Hallelujah!!) to wrap up the Stowupland innings, bowling them out for 85, Smith finishing with an excellent 4 wicket for 12 runs and the equally impressive Zahid, 3 wickets for just 6 runs.
Tea was taken and the Legend that is St Ledger picked up the baton this week, would he fear being dropped for the rest of his life if no egg sandwiches were produced, no fear, St Ledger came up trumps with a terrific spread, the egg sandwiches were magnificent, superbly seasoned and a mix of white and brown bread versions. This was accompanied by a range of sausage rolls, quiches and scotch eggs. The tuna and cucumber went down well too, some new pots and toms and carrot sticks for the morehealthy amongst us. Tea was provide but due to it being so hot the squash got a hammering, but homemade cakes from the St Ledger family were still demolished. Well done St Ledge.
During tea, we received a running commentary from the quiet man Alex Zahid on the Pakistan v India game in the ICC Trophy final, normally in the skippers ear wanting to bat the up the order, the big fella was happy to see Mohammed Amir destroy Kohli and friends in the top order.
TK asked Boris and Jay Phillips to open the batting and both made a steady if not well timed start as they struggled initially with their timing. However, some intelligent running gave them the opportunity to play themselves in as the Stowupland bowlers struggled in the now stifling heat of the afternoon. Phillips played some majestic cover drives to tick the score along and Boris weighed in with a lovely four but in the 15th over, tried to pull a short one and mistimed to be caught at square leg for 15, Milden were 55 for 1. No collapse this week as Humphries joined Phillips and they punished anything short or wide to race the score along to 85, some terrific shots were played with no chances giver as in the 20th over, Phillips clipped on to the covers and they ran through to pick up the single run needed for victory.
A great win this week following our loss to Earl Stonham, really tough conditions on a very hot day, but we stuck to our guns and won the 20 points well.
Milden retired to the Edwardstone White Horse where we were splendidly looked after by Ben Abbott, roast potato’s, sausages and ham sandwiches were laid on as Milden sank plenty of cold ones and toasted a well deserved victory.
Man of the match this week went to Joe Smith again, running in down the hill and getting wickets at important times. However, some good all round performances in what was a relatively short game, nice to see Phillips get some runs, Archer and St Ledger turned their arms and have not done so for a while and bowled well, Ferris ran in up the Milden hill in very hot conditions and bowled some nice overs.
No league game next week but Milden are involved in a cup competition, details will follow on the usual social media outlets and the website.
UP THE MELDES !!!
Sunday 11th June 2017.
Hunts County League Division 4
Milden Cricket Club 212 for 7
Earl Stonham Cricket Club 213 for 4
Milden made the trip to Earl Stonham this week to play ay their picturesque ground with their shiny new pavilion. The weather was warm and sunny and the small but well looked after ground looked great in the sun as TK won the toss and had no hesitation in batting first on what look a good track.
Boris and Lucas opened the innings and both were soon back in the pavilion, Boris trapped LBW for 1 and Lucas clean bowled also for 1. Phillips and Humphries took up the mantle and cautiously began to put runs on the board, Phillips playing very nicely, punishing anything short or wide. They put on a nice stand of 53 before Phillips danced down the track, missed and was stumped well for 21. Pat continued to place his shots and he and Tom Duffy continued to put runs on the board, Tom hitting some lovely 4’s past the bowler before he was caught at mid on when he mistimed a full toss and caught a leading edged which was snaffled up for 13.
Big Alex Zahid joined Pat and played cautiously but anything in his zone was dispatched for 6, big 6’s but his innings was cut short when he edged the bowler to the keeper and departed for a quick fire 25. With batsmen getting in and out, Pat continued to put runs on the board steadily, soon reaching his 50 and now joined by Will Ward, but soon Will, caught for 2 and Skipper TK, caught for 1 left Milden on a 127 for 6.
Pat and Joe dug in and runs flowed as the pair fought back against the tight Stonham attack and soon the board was ticking over as Milden passed 150, 160 and 175. Pat played some terrific shots and was ably assisted by Joe Smith who is in some decent nick also. The part played the ball all around the ground with Pat hitting some powerful 6’s and Smudger supporting the man in form with some intelligent running. As the overs began to run out, Pat continued to biff the bowling round the ground, when at the end he was left on 99 not out as he unselfishly ran a single to put runs on the board rather than play for his ton. Well batted Pat. Smith finished on 32 not out and Milden closed their innings on 212. A great effort considering the position that they found themselves in earlier.
Tea was taken in the village hall and a good spread was put on by our hosts, egg sandwiches too and with a range of crisps, sausage rolls and hot chicken nuggets.
Milden took to the field and quickly learnt that anything short, wide or not on the mark would be dispatched and it was, but Smith and TK pulled on the reigns and checked the scoring with some tight bowling. TK picked up the first wicket having Lewis caught by Zahid in the slips for 12. TK and Joe Smith were replaced by Leppard and Zahid, both bowled well on a flat track and fast outfield.
Some brilliant fielding from Every, Lucas, Boris and Ward kept the run rate high but Stonham always kept within touching distance. Zahid broke the partnership by bowling Eade for 39. However, the next wicket was as tough to get as the wicket flattened out and Stonham continued to pick off runs. Leppard although wicketless put in a shift running up the hill and a great return from injury, Zahid 10 overs went for 22, again great return from a troublesome ankle.Joe Smith picked up a couple of wickets and Milden were in with a shout but he and TK could not stem the runs and Dye was the key wicket but Milden could just not take it and Earl Stonham passed Mildens total with 2 overs to spare.
So, Milden’s 17 game unbeaten run that started last year has come to an end, the changing room was a bit quiet but only for about 2 seconds when Zahid cracked a joke, Leppard piled in and we were all back to normal. Stonham are a good side and we knew that, but what was really pleasing is that we put up a fight again, the players keep stepping up and our spirit is unbreakable. In good Milden tradition, we retired to the local pub, win or lose on the booze!! Some great banter and a few potato skins (well posh pub) were shared.
Only one clear contender for Man of the Match this week, well done Pat Humphries, classy knock of 99 not out, showed what Milden is all about.
Next week Milden are at home to Stowupland, tough games coming thick and fast. If you can come and support, please do.
UP THE MELDES !!
Hunts County League Division 4
Milden Cricket Club 212 for 7
Earl Stonham Cricket Club 213 for 4
Milden made the trip to Earl Stonham this week to play ay their picturesque ground with their shiny new pavilion. The weather was warm and sunny and the small but well looked after ground looked great in the sun as TK won the toss and had no hesitation in batting first on what look a good track.
Boris and Lucas opened the innings and both were soon back in the pavilion, Boris trapped LBW for 1 and Lucas clean bowled also for 1. Phillips and Humphries took up the mantle and cautiously began to put runs on the board, Phillips playing very nicely, punishing anything short or wide. They put on a nice stand of 53 before Phillips danced down the track, missed and was stumped well for 21. Pat continued to place his shots and he and Tom Duffy continued to put runs on the board, Tom hitting some lovely 4’s past the bowler before he was caught at mid on when he mistimed a full toss and caught a leading edged which was snaffled up for 13.
Big Alex Zahid joined Pat and played cautiously but anything in his zone was dispatched for 6, big 6’s but his innings was cut short when he edged the bowler to the keeper and departed for a quick fire 25. With batsmen getting in and out, Pat continued to put runs on the board steadily, soon reaching his 50 and now joined by Will Ward, but soon Will, caught for 2 and Skipper TK, caught for 1 left Milden on a 127 for 6.
Pat and Joe dug in and runs flowed as the pair fought back against the tight Stonham attack and soon the board was ticking over as Milden passed 150, 160 and 175. Pat played some terrific shots and was ably assisted by Joe Smith who is in some decent nick also. The part played the ball all around the ground with Pat hitting some powerful 6’s and Smudger supporting the man in form with some intelligent running. As the overs began to run out, Pat continued to biff the bowling round the ground, when at the end he was left on 99 not out as he unselfishly ran a single to put runs on the board rather than play for his ton. Well batted Pat. Smith finished on 32 not out and Milden closed their innings on 212. A great effort considering the position that they found themselves in earlier.
Tea was taken in the village hall and a good spread was put on by our hosts, egg sandwiches too and with a range of crisps, sausage rolls and hot chicken nuggets.
Milden took to the field and quickly learnt that anything short, wide or not on the mark would be dispatched and it was, but Smith and TK pulled on the reigns and checked the scoring with some tight bowling. TK picked up the first wicket having Lewis caught by Zahid in the slips for 12. TK and Joe Smith were replaced by Leppard and Zahid, both bowled well on a flat track and fast outfield.
Some brilliant fielding from Every, Lucas, Boris and Ward kept the run rate high but Stonham always kept within touching distance. Zahid broke the partnership by bowling Eade for 39. However, the next wicket was as tough to get as the wicket flattened out and Stonham continued to pick off runs. Leppard although wicketless put in a shift running up the hill and a great return from injury, Zahid 10 overs went for 22, again great return from a troublesome ankle.Joe Smith picked up a couple of wickets and Milden were in with a shout but he and TK could not stem the runs and Dye was the key wicket but Milden could just not take it and Earl Stonham passed Mildens total with 2 overs to spare.
So, Milden’s 17 game unbeaten run that started last year has come to an end, the changing room was a bit quiet but only for about 2 seconds when Zahid cracked a joke, Leppard piled in and we were all back to normal. Stonham are a good side and we knew that, but what was really pleasing is that we put up a fight again, the players keep stepping up and our spirit is unbreakable. In good Milden tradition, we retired to the local pub, win or lose on the booze!! Some great banter and a few potato skins (well posh pub) were shared.
Only one clear contender for Man of the Match this week, well done Pat Humphries, classy knock of 99 not out, showed what Milden is all about.
Next week Milden are at home to Stowupland, tough games coming thick and fast. If you can come and support, please do.
UP THE MELDES !!
Sunday 4th June 2017.
Hunts County League Division 4
Lakenheath Cricket Club 135 for 6
Milden Cricket Club 136 for 6
Milden win by 4 wickets
Milden made the long journey to Lakenheath on a warm, dry and sunny day, a ground that they had not played at before. Everyone turned up early but Lakenheath were a bit on the drag but the game eventually got underway on time after TK had lost the toss and Lakenheath elected to bat.
TK had to make a last minute change to the team when Phillips was unavoidably delayed in Germany but now club legend St Ledger stepped in make the team complete.
The wicket was hard and flat and the Lakenheath openers quickly began to play their shots as Hayton and Smith ran in, the quick outfield resulted in a flurry of boundaries before Smith had dangerous Milner caught well at mid off by ‘safe hands’ St Ledger, taking a good catch. Hayton steamed in and soon dragged the run rate back as Milden probed at the Lakenheath batsmen. Hayton was unlucky not to pick up his own wicket as the batsmen accumulated singles, but Smith made the breakthrough again when he clean bowled Flack.
Bond and Pallant were the new bats and they used all their experience to steady the ship but runs were slow to come by. Hayton and Smith bowled some really good lines and Smith soon struck again when he had Bond caught by Hayton with one of the less better balls he had bowled and Milden were on top. Hayton made may for Leppard who after a couple of loose deliveries was soon back into his stride.
Smith continued to steam in and picked up the wicket of Dupe for his 4th, clean bowling the tall wicket keeper to finish with 4 wickets for 26 off his allocated 10 overs. Pallant was looking dangerous with anything in the slot driven for 4. TK replaced Smith and he and Leppard rolled back the years in bowling some tight overs, TK bowling 4 maidens on the spin to apply the pressure to the batsmen.
The bowlers were fantastically supported in the field with Lucas, Simmons, Ward and Duffy putting their bodies on the line in stopping boundaries and Harding being as tidy as ever behind the stumps. Pallant continued to score runs but a big shot of Leppards bowling had Ward scurrying around the boundary to take a magnificent catch in the deep and Milden were back on top. TK picked up the wicket of young Palmer, clean bowling him through the gate. Milden continued to try and pick up more wickets, Hayton was re-introduced but could not make the breakthrough but neither did he go for any runs, finishing his 10 over spell wicketless but only going for a miserly 28 runs.
Lakenheath gave it a bit of long handle towards the end but no more wickets were taken and our hosts finished 135 for 6.
Tea was taken, no egg sandwiches, no sandwiches at all but a DIY set up of baguettes with a range of fillings, sausage rolls and scotch eggs. TK was disconsolate, an opportunity to bat himself down the order, over tea on egg sandwiches, he seemed a broken man.
Following the friendly at Long Melford last week, TK took some advice from vice captain Simmons and decided to keep the opening pairing of Cunningham and Lucas to open the innings. His faith was re paid as both batsmen started confidently, watching good balls carefully and dispatching anything short or wide to the boundary.
The score stood at 46 when Lucas was bowled for 17 and the partnership broken. Simmons joined Cunningham at the crease but he too was soon back in the hutch when he was bowled for 0. Will Ward joined Boris and they ticked the score along nicely to the 19th over when Boris played on for 34. Duffy and Ward picked up the mantle but Ward was caught well for 18, Milden were 79 for 4. This soon became 83 for 5 when Duffy chipped one to square leg and he was back in the pavilion for 10. A few nervous glances were had when Harding after playing a lovely pull for 4, was bowled by new Lakenheath recruit Singh, trying to repeat the same shot and Milden were 87 for 6.
The Lakenheath bowlers of Pallant and Singh bowled very tightly, Leppard and Smith at the crease showed real experience in seeing them off, Leppard playing some terrific drives for 4 and putting a nice stand together of 25 during a time when wickets had fallen quickly.However, Leppard called for a quick run and was brilliantly run out for 14 with a direct hit by Singh, leaving Milden 113 for 7 and with 5 overs left and the relaxed Mildeners that had been sat in the pavilion were all stood up with arms crossed, had we thrown away this game?
TK strode in at the unusual position of number 9 to join Smith and they put on a 6 runs before Smith was brilliantly caught and bowled by Gerrard for 15, Milden were staring down the barrel.
With the Lakenheath bowlers and fielders now with their tails up, the ever calm Hayton walked to the crease and spoke with TK, ‘just do what we do and win games’ were Haytons wise words.
Tk edged a single and with 4 overs left, Milden had to really dig deep. But TK swung the pendulum back in Mildens favour with a towering 6 soon followed by a 4 to calm the nerves of his watching team mates. Hayton was resolute in defence and backed Tk magnificently as they picked of the required runs with 3 overs to spare, TK finished 18 not out and Hayton 0 not out.
A terrific game played in a sporting and exciting fashion. Milden again showed they do not know when they are beaten in seeing this game home. The fielding and bowling were the best we have seen this season, the batting, well small totals are always tough to chase.
We stopped for a beer with the opposition and the usual banter was had amongst the team. Man of the Match this week went again to Joe Smith for his 4 wickets and invaluable stand with Leppard. However, there were some terrific performances all round and Milden spirit showed through again.
A massive thank you must also go to James Harding and James Pipe that drove all the way to Lakenheath to score and provide live updates via the whats app group, sometimes ball by ball but definitely, over by over, you nearly got men of the match for doing that.
Milden still sit top and unbeaten but a tough fixture away next week at Earl Stonham who will definitely be in the mix at the end of the season.
UP THE MELDES !!!
Hunts County League Division 4
Lakenheath Cricket Club 135 for 6
Milden Cricket Club 136 for 6
Milden win by 4 wickets
Milden made the long journey to Lakenheath on a warm, dry and sunny day, a ground that they had not played at before. Everyone turned up early but Lakenheath were a bit on the drag but the game eventually got underway on time after TK had lost the toss and Lakenheath elected to bat.
TK had to make a last minute change to the team when Phillips was unavoidably delayed in Germany but now club legend St Ledger stepped in make the team complete.
The wicket was hard and flat and the Lakenheath openers quickly began to play their shots as Hayton and Smith ran in, the quick outfield resulted in a flurry of boundaries before Smith had dangerous Milner caught well at mid off by ‘safe hands’ St Ledger, taking a good catch. Hayton steamed in and soon dragged the run rate back as Milden probed at the Lakenheath batsmen. Hayton was unlucky not to pick up his own wicket as the batsmen accumulated singles, but Smith made the breakthrough again when he clean bowled Flack.
Bond and Pallant were the new bats and they used all their experience to steady the ship but runs were slow to come by. Hayton and Smith bowled some really good lines and Smith soon struck again when he had Bond caught by Hayton with one of the less better balls he had bowled and Milden were on top. Hayton made may for Leppard who after a couple of loose deliveries was soon back into his stride.
Smith continued to steam in and picked up the wicket of Dupe for his 4th, clean bowling the tall wicket keeper to finish with 4 wickets for 26 off his allocated 10 overs. Pallant was looking dangerous with anything in the slot driven for 4. TK replaced Smith and he and Leppard rolled back the years in bowling some tight overs, TK bowling 4 maidens on the spin to apply the pressure to the batsmen.
The bowlers were fantastically supported in the field with Lucas, Simmons, Ward and Duffy putting their bodies on the line in stopping boundaries and Harding being as tidy as ever behind the stumps. Pallant continued to score runs but a big shot of Leppards bowling had Ward scurrying around the boundary to take a magnificent catch in the deep and Milden were back on top. TK picked up the wicket of young Palmer, clean bowling him through the gate. Milden continued to try and pick up more wickets, Hayton was re-introduced but could not make the breakthrough but neither did he go for any runs, finishing his 10 over spell wicketless but only going for a miserly 28 runs.
Lakenheath gave it a bit of long handle towards the end but no more wickets were taken and our hosts finished 135 for 6.
Tea was taken, no egg sandwiches, no sandwiches at all but a DIY set up of baguettes with a range of fillings, sausage rolls and scotch eggs. TK was disconsolate, an opportunity to bat himself down the order, over tea on egg sandwiches, he seemed a broken man.
Following the friendly at Long Melford last week, TK took some advice from vice captain Simmons and decided to keep the opening pairing of Cunningham and Lucas to open the innings. His faith was re paid as both batsmen started confidently, watching good balls carefully and dispatching anything short or wide to the boundary.
The score stood at 46 when Lucas was bowled for 17 and the partnership broken. Simmons joined Cunningham at the crease but he too was soon back in the hutch when he was bowled for 0. Will Ward joined Boris and they ticked the score along nicely to the 19th over when Boris played on for 34. Duffy and Ward picked up the mantle but Ward was caught well for 18, Milden were 79 for 4. This soon became 83 for 5 when Duffy chipped one to square leg and he was back in the pavilion for 10. A few nervous glances were had when Harding after playing a lovely pull for 4, was bowled by new Lakenheath recruit Singh, trying to repeat the same shot and Milden were 87 for 6.
The Lakenheath bowlers of Pallant and Singh bowled very tightly, Leppard and Smith at the crease showed real experience in seeing them off, Leppard playing some terrific drives for 4 and putting a nice stand together of 25 during a time when wickets had fallen quickly.However, Leppard called for a quick run and was brilliantly run out for 14 with a direct hit by Singh, leaving Milden 113 for 7 and with 5 overs left and the relaxed Mildeners that had been sat in the pavilion were all stood up with arms crossed, had we thrown away this game?
TK strode in at the unusual position of number 9 to join Smith and they put on a 6 runs before Smith was brilliantly caught and bowled by Gerrard for 15, Milden were staring down the barrel.
With the Lakenheath bowlers and fielders now with their tails up, the ever calm Hayton walked to the crease and spoke with TK, ‘just do what we do and win games’ were Haytons wise words.
Tk edged a single and with 4 overs left, Milden had to really dig deep. But TK swung the pendulum back in Mildens favour with a towering 6 soon followed by a 4 to calm the nerves of his watching team mates. Hayton was resolute in defence and backed Tk magnificently as they picked of the required runs with 3 overs to spare, TK finished 18 not out and Hayton 0 not out.
A terrific game played in a sporting and exciting fashion. Milden again showed they do not know when they are beaten in seeing this game home. The fielding and bowling were the best we have seen this season, the batting, well small totals are always tough to chase.
We stopped for a beer with the opposition and the usual banter was had amongst the team. Man of the Match this week went again to Joe Smith for his 4 wickets and invaluable stand with Leppard. However, there were some terrific performances all round and Milden spirit showed through again.
A massive thank you must also go to James Harding and James Pipe that drove all the way to Lakenheath to score and provide live updates via the whats app group, sometimes ball by ball but definitely, over by over, you nearly got men of the match for doing that.
Milden still sit top and unbeaten but a tough fixture away next week at Earl Stonham who will definitely be in the mix at the end of the season.
UP THE MELDES !!!
Hunts County League Division 4
21st May 2017
Milden 145 All out
Battisford and District Cricket Club 143 for 6
Milden win by 2 runs.
For what had been a wet wicket with some much needed rain, Milden arrived on Sunday to Church Lane with the ground bathed in sunshine and a proper warm feel to the day. Earlier in the week so much needed work had been done by Rich Harding, Jim Roger Brown and Alan Every, covering the pitch to protect it from the worst of the rain and getting it all back off on Saturday to get it to dry out. TK went out into the middle and won the toss and decided to bat on a slightly soft surface and he and Boris opened the innings in steady fashion with opening bowler Skinner bowling with pace and a good length. The opening pair got the score to 15 before Boris was trapped LBW, Pat Humphries joined TK and they pushed the score onto 31 before Pat was cleaned bowled for 5.
Milden then had a mini collapse as first Tim Duffy got a good ball and was back in the Pavillion after edging one first ball and then TK soon followed him adjudged LBW after taking a big stride forward but given out nevertheless. Harding and big Alex Zahid were at the crease but Harding was trapped LBW by Goulding and Milden were in the same boat as last week, 34 for 5 off 15 overs.
Will Ward making his first appearance of the season joined Zahid and watched as the big fella played a more watchful innings, peppered with some big shots, will supporting well from the other end. The scoreboard began to tick over but was halted again when Ward was stumped for 6 and Milden were wondering if they would make a 100. Joe Smith joined Zahid and some big hitting and good running got the score to 85 before Zahid was cleaned bowled by Pemberton for 29. The supporters that had come to watch were seeing an epic collapse, so much so that Archer and Wooderson were soon having a couple of Peroni’s in the sun watching Milden struggle. However, Milden did what Milden do well, we fought hard. Joe Smith and Mark St Ledger now at the crease began to compile some runs. Mark played a terrific innings in supporting Joe and played some lovely shots too.
The score went past 100 with Joe taking it to the bowlers, driving and pulling well, best shot was a magnificent six, pulled majestically to the boundary. Joe was honing in on his 50 when the dangerous opening bowler Skinner was re-introduced and Joe mistimed a hook and was caught for 44, Milden now 135 for 8. Ferris came in but was soon back in the pavilion, bowled for a duck. Hayton joined St Ledger and they put on another 10 runs, Hayton must have been reading the Zahid batting manual, majestically flat batting a four over the bowlers head and St Ledger, clipping a nice boundary off his legs. The inning was closed when St Ledger was trapped LBW for a intelligent innings and Milden were all out in the 37th over for 145.
Tea was taken and Mrs Humphries had donned the apron this week and the players and supporters tucked into a magnificent tea. The oppo got stuck in first and TK nervously paced making sure that not too many egg sandwiches were consumed. Egg sandwiches were joined by ham and pickle, cheese and in addition some new fancy wraps and mini rolls with prawns, PRAWNS at a Milden cricket club tea, TK’s second favourite filling after eggs !!!. Loads of cakes, sausage rolls and crisps joined the assortment of sandwiches, Zahid went for his customary double plate strategy and everyone enjoyed the spread, sat out in the warm sun. Will done Peppa and all your helpers. 9 out of 10 was the consensus on the day.
The customary Milden huddle convened in the middle and TK asked for more fight and spirit that we had ever shown, intelligent fielding and bowling was required, but most of all, a bit of fight. Hayton and Smith steamed in at their respective ends, a couple of tough chances were put down from batsmen Tucker, but Smith soon had him caught and Milden were into the Battisford attack. Hayton bowled with some pace and decent lines but Simmons was driving anything that was too full. Hayton was soon rewarded when he had Bull caught for his first wicket in the 13th over and Battisford were 33 for 2.
TK kept Hayton bowling to try and make another breakthrough but Battisford had decided to try and see him off so the run rate slowed but he was unable to get another wicket, Hayton finished with 1 for 33 off his 10 overs. Some terrific bowling and fielding by everyone kept our guests in check but wickets were needed.
TK turned to Tom Duffy to run up the Milden Hill to rest Smith, Tom bowled a couple of loose ones but soon got into a rhythm and reigned in the Battisford batsmen. Tk ran in down the hill and between them they looked for that crucial wicket as the runs accumulated.
Tk made the breakthrough when he bowled Henry and soon again, got another wicket, removing the Battisford wicket keeper for 2. TK rolled back the years bowling a tight line as the game swung back in Mildens favour. Duffy was replaced by Every, finishing 0 for 10 off his 4 overs. Ferris ran up the hill and started with some very good line and length, opener Simmons fancied Ferris bowling and tucked into a couple of 4’s to get his 50 but one too many lusty blows as TK snaffled him in the deep with a well taken catch. Game on !!
Milden continued to bowl well with Battisford accumulating runs, Every struck again when Pemberton tried to sweep him for 4 but Humphries took a magnificent diving catch to send him back on his was.
The game was on a knife edge, new batsmen Skinner tried to take the game to Milden, hitting a few boundaries but TK and Every stuck to their guns. TK thought he had Skinner caught behind when he middle it to Harding behind the stumps but the umpire didn’t hear it. Skinner continued to try and play big shots but Milden fielded really well to limit his scoring chances.
5 overs to go, soon became 2 and TK gave a solitary single away leaving Ferris to bowl the last over and Battisford still needing 9 to win.
The over went…. DOT.FOUR. TWO. DOT.DOT (magical stop by Ferris off his own bowling). Last ball and Battisford needed three runs to win, Ferris ran up, Skinner hit it into the deep, but only for one run and Milden were victorious.
Both teams clapped each other off at the end of a great game that swung both ways right up until the end of the game. The game was played in an excellent spirit with some good talent on show from the youngsters from our opponents.
Lots of good performances today, Richard Harding was tidy as always behind the stumps, Pat and Will Ward fielded to their usual high standard, but this week’s Man of the Match goes t Joe Smith, 44 runs, gave us a chance, which we took. Well done.
After the game everyone retired to the Edwardstone White Horse for a few beers and a table groaning with food that Mick and Ben had laid on. Yorkshire Puddings, Roast Potatoes, roast chicken legs and of course Yorkshire Gravy (it is rather good).
It is always difficult to reflect on a game like that, a couple of runs here and there and we could be feeling very different, always nice to win again and keep our run going. Massive thank you to those that came and watched and supported us. James Pipe and James Harding did a terrific effort on the Whats App group keeping everyone informed of what was going on, Jay, Woody and Matt Archer, coming up with their kids and sinking a couple of cheeky Peroni’s in the sun, girlfriends and wives and family of Milden players, just creating a terrific club atmosphere. So I will just leave you with the following picture below, just summed it up today !!!!
UP THE MELDES !!!
21st May 2017
Milden 145 All out
Battisford and District Cricket Club 143 for 6
Milden win by 2 runs.
For what had been a wet wicket with some much needed rain, Milden arrived on Sunday to Church Lane with the ground bathed in sunshine and a proper warm feel to the day. Earlier in the week so much needed work had been done by Rich Harding, Jim Roger Brown and Alan Every, covering the pitch to protect it from the worst of the rain and getting it all back off on Saturday to get it to dry out. TK went out into the middle and won the toss and decided to bat on a slightly soft surface and he and Boris opened the innings in steady fashion with opening bowler Skinner bowling with pace and a good length. The opening pair got the score to 15 before Boris was trapped LBW, Pat Humphries joined TK and they pushed the score onto 31 before Pat was cleaned bowled for 5.
Milden then had a mini collapse as first Tim Duffy got a good ball and was back in the Pavillion after edging one first ball and then TK soon followed him adjudged LBW after taking a big stride forward but given out nevertheless. Harding and big Alex Zahid were at the crease but Harding was trapped LBW by Goulding and Milden were in the same boat as last week, 34 for 5 off 15 overs.
Will Ward making his first appearance of the season joined Zahid and watched as the big fella played a more watchful innings, peppered with some big shots, will supporting well from the other end. The scoreboard began to tick over but was halted again when Ward was stumped for 6 and Milden were wondering if they would make a 100. Joe Smith joined Zahid and some big hitting and good running got the score to 85 before Zahid was cleaned bowled by Pemberton for 29. The supporters that had come to watch were seeing an epic collapse, so much so that Archer and Wooderson were soon having a couple of Peroni’s in the sun watching Milden struggle. However, Milden did what Milden do well, we fought hard. Joe Smith and Mark St Ledger now at the crease began to compile some runs. Mark played a terrific innings in supporting Joe and played some lovely shots too.
The score went past 100 with Joe taking it to the bowlers, driving and pulling well, best shot was a magnificent six, pulled majestically to the boundary. Joe was honing in on his 50 when the dangerous opening bowler Skinner was re-introduced and Joe mistimed a hook and was caught for 44, Milden now 135 for 8. Ferris came in but was soon back in the pavilion, bowled for a duck. Hayton joined St Ledger and they put on another 10 runs, Hayton must have been reading the Zahid batting manual, majestically flat batting a four over the bowlers head and St Ledger, clipping a nice boundary off his legs. The inning was closed when St Ledger was trapped LBW for a intelligent innings and Milden were all out in the 37th over for 145.
Tea was taken and Mrs Humphries had donned the apron this week and the players and supporters tucked into a magnificent tea. The oppo got stuck in first and TK nervously paced making sure that not too many egg sandwiches were consumed. Egg sandwiches were joined by ham and pickle, cheese and in addition some new fancy wraps and mini rolls with prawns, PRAWNS at a Milden cricket club tea, TK’s second favourite filling after eggs !!!. Loads of cakes, sausage rolls and crisps joined the assortment of sandwiches, Zahid went for his customary double plate strategy and everyone enjoyed the spread, sat out in the warm sun. Will done Peppa and all your helpers. 9 out of 10 was the consensus on the day.
The customary Milden huddle convened in the middle and TK asked for more fight and spirit that we had ever shown, intelligent fielding and bowling was required, but most of all, a bit of fight. Hayton and Smith steamed in at their respective ends, a couple of tough chances were put down from batsmen Tucker, but Smith soon had him caught and Milden were into the Battisford attack. Hayton bowled with some pace and decent lines but Simmons was driving anything that was too full. Hayton was soon rewarded when he had Bull caught for his first wicket in the 13th over and Battisford were 33 for 2.
TK kept Hayton bowling to try and make another breakthrough but Battisford had decided to try and see him off so the run rate slowed but he was unable to get another wicket, Hayton finished with 1 for 33 off his 10 overs. Some terrific bowling and fielding by everyone kept our guests in check but wickets were needed.
TK turned to Tom Duffy to run up the Milden Hill to rest Smith, Tom bowled a couple of loose ones but soon got into a rhythm and reigned in the Battisford batsmen. Tk ran in down the hill and between them they looked for that crucial wicket as the runs accumulated.
Tk made the breakthrough when he bowled Henry and soon again, got another wicket, removing the Battisford wicket keeper for 2. TK rolled back the years bowling a tight line as the game swung back in Mildens favour. Duffy was replaced by Every, finishing 0 for 10 off his 4 overs. Ferris ran up the hill and started with some very good line and length, opener Simmons fancied Ferris bowling and tucked into a couple of 4’s to get his 50 but one too many lusty blows as TK snaffled him in the deep with a well taken catch. Game on !!
Milden continued to bowl well with Battisford accumulating runs, Every struck again when Pemberton tried to sweep him for 4 but Humphries took a magnificent diving catch to send him back on his was.
The game was on a knife edge, new batsmen Skinner tried to take the game to Milden, hitting a few boundaries but TK and Every stuck to their guns. TK thought he had Skinner caught behind when he middle it to Harding behind the stumps but the umpire didn’t hear it. Skinner continued to try and play big shots but Milden fielded really well to limit his scoring chances.
5 overs to go, soon became 2 and TK gave a solitary single away leaving Ferris to bowl the last over and Battisford still needing 9 to win.
The over went…. DOT.FOUR. TWO. DOT.DOT (magical stop by Ferris off his own bowling). Last ball and Battisford needed three runs to win, Ferris ran up, Skinner hit it into the deep, but only for one run and Milden were victorious.
Both teams clapped each other off at the end of a great game that swung both ways right up until the end of the game. The game was played in an excellent spirit with some good talent on show from the youngsters from our opponents.
Lots of good performances today, Richard Harding was tidy as always behind the stumps, Pat and Will Ward fielded to their usual high standard, but this week’s Man of the Match goes t Joe Smith, 44 runs, gave us a chance, which we took. Well done.
After the game everyone retired to the Edwardstone White Horse for a few beers and a table groaning with food that Mick and Ben had laid on. Yorkshire Puddings, Roast Potatoes, roast chicken legs and of course Yorkshire Gravy (it is rather good).
It is always difficult to reflect on a game like that, a couple of runs here and there and we could be feeling very different, always nice to win again and keep our run going. Massive thank you to those that came and watched and supported us. James Pipe and James Harding did a terrific effort on the Whats App group keeping everyone informed of what was going on, Jay, Woody and Matt Archer, coming up with their kids and sinking a couple of cheeky Peroni’s in the sun, girlfriends and wives and family of Milden players, just creating a terrific club atmosphere. So I will just leave you with the following picture below, just summed it up today !!!!
UP THE MELDES !!!
Hunts County Cricket League Division 4
Sunday 14th May 2017
Milden 160 for 7
Lavenham 143 All Out
Milden won by 17 runs.
On a warm and sunny May afternoon, Milden welcomed Lavenham to Church Lane for this division 4 encounter. Some hard work had gone into the ground over the last few weeks and it looked terrific. TK strode out with the Lavenham captain and lost the toss and Milden were surprisingly asked to bat.
Boris and Jay Phillips kicked off the innings with Boris falling first ball to S. Theobold’s spin, Pat went out to join Jay and the two of them started to put some runs on the board before Phillips tried to sweep one and gloved behind. TK strode out and was soon back in the hutch, bowled for 1 and Milden were 22 for 3. Zahid followed TK and he and Pat started to restore the batting a bit, Pat playing some lovely timed shots before S.Theobold took a bullet of a catch from his own bowling and Milden reeling on 34 for 4, putting us in looked like an inspired decision.
Richard Harding and Zahid dug in and started to accumulate some runs, big Alex had the field instantly spread but he just took them on but rode his luck a couple of times with the ball dropping short or being dropped. At the other end, Rich Harding went about his business and played some elegant shots. As the sun shone and it got warmer, Milden weathered the opening bowlers and started to get stuck into the next lot. Alex played some nice shots but eventually holed out in the deep to a well taken catch.
Woody joined Rich and they continued to push the runs, Milden trying to get a competitive total, Woody supported Rich well before being bowled by M.Theolbold for 9, I think he thanked him for the send off.!! Smith supported Rich as Milden looked at closing out the innings and their 40 overs, Harding was really in his stride but Smith did not hold back and after watching a few, produced some cultured lofted drives and boundaries to boot. Harding passed his 50 and really got stuck into M.Theobold in the last over to leave Milden 160 for 8 in the 40th over, S.Theobold who bowled well with his opening spin and M.Theobold shared 3 wickets a piece with D.Boon the other wicket taker.
Tea was taken and Sumo and put his hand up to provide the first home tea of the year. He had been working on his Egg Sandwich methodology in the close season and even had sent Skip a picture to get him excited before the game, he didn’t disappoint, right seasoning, cress and plenty of it !! The supporting cast of sausage rolls, tuna mayo, cheese and ham were not as good as the main billing, but would it ever be? Plenty of cakes and crisps and some fruit to boot, everyone tucked in, including those that had come to watch this local derby. 8 out of 10 for Sumo, well done!!
TK gathered the troops in a huddle and spelled out to them that we had to show our character, apply ourselves and do what Milden did well last year, work out how to win games. Hayton ran in down the hill and bowled with pace but Bellward was up to the task and punished anything short or wide. Greg got stuck into him a bit but the batsman was on top. M.Theobold opened the batting as well, but Smith soon dispatched him, clipping the top of off stump for 6. Bellward was really starting to push the runs playing some lovely cultured shots and Lavenham were building a response. However, Smith, running up the Milden hill soon dragged Milden back into the game, bowling Madel for 4, C.Boon for 7 and Cruse for a duck.
TK rotated the bowling and Hayton was replaced by Zahid who only managed 3 balls due to an ankle injury and Pat finished off his over, nearly snaffling the dangerous Bellward. Tk came on at the top end and Woody bowled from the bottom end, Woody using all his experience, just bowled line and length and with a beauty of a delivery, bowled Bellward for 44. But this is a Milden v Lavenham game and one thing is sure, both sides want to win. The Lavenham batsmen continued to dig in and accumulate runs, Captain Robinson giving no quarter, but Woody in his chirpy and efficient style, kept bowling lines and soon had Nice well caught by a diving TK. Milden spilled a couple of really tough catches but Woody clean bowled Levett and Milden were on top. But the game started to swing back to Lavenhams favour as the runs ticked up and Milden could not find a breakthrough. Hayton was re-introduced and he got the crucial wickets of skipper Robinson and Theobold, bowling both of them cleanly.
With Hayton and Woody bowled out, TK and Smith tried to get the last wicket, a mix up between Zahid and Zahid saw him not take a simple catch in the slips, blaming it on Archer. Nevertheless as Lavenham got close, so the overs started to tick down and in with a rash shot, Ellis skied one to Archer who calmly took it in the deep, Milden victory. Great bowling from everyone, Greg came back well to finish with 2 for 57, Wooderson bowled really well for his 3 for 25, Archer was wicketless but bowled 3 overs for a miserly 8 runs, TK picked up 1 for 18 but Joe Smith was star performer with 4 for 24 off his 8 overs.
The beans this week was a tough decision with Smith and Harding both in the frame but just for giving us the chance to win, Richard Harding picks up Man of the Match with his 59 not out.
A really competitive game, played in the right spirit and a show was put on to all those people that came to watch on a beautiful May afternoon. Village cricket at its best. Both teams retreated to the Edwardstone White Horse where Mick in his customary Yorkshire way, put on a splendid spread of chips, roast potatoes, Yorkshire puddings, sausages and of course GRAVY. !! We shared a few beers with the opposition and wish them very well for the rest of the season, see you later in the year.
Final big thanks to those players that came up to the ground to support and helped with putting stuff away etc after the game, it is very much appreciated not just by myself but everyone in the club. Whilst we have a good team and a terrific squad, we also have a magnificent club.
Next week we are at home again to Battisford, everyone welcome.
Up the Meldes !!
Sunday 14th May 2017
Milden 160 for 7
Lavenham 143 All Out
Milden won by 17 runs.
On a warm and sunny May afternoon, Milden welcomed Lavenham to Church Lane for this division 4 encounter. Some hard work had gone into the ground over the last few weeks and it looked terrific. TK strode out with the Lavenham captain and lost the toss and Milden were surprisingly asked to bat.
Boris and Jay Phillips kicked off the innings with Boris falling first ball to S. Theobold’s spin, Pat went out to join Jay and the two of them started to put some runs on the board before Phillips tried to sweep one and gloved behind. TK strode out and was soon back in the hutch, bowled for 1 and Milden were 22 for 3. Zahid followed TK and he and Pat started to restore the batting a bit, Pat playing some lovely timed shots before S.Theobold took a bullet of a catch from his own bowling and Milden reeling on 34 for 4, putting us in looked like an inspired decision.
Richard Harding and Zahid dug in and started to accumulate some runs, big Alex had the field instantly spread but he just took them on but rode his luck a couple of times with the ball dropping short or being dropped. At the other end, Rich Harding went about his business and played some elegant shots. As the sun shone and it got warmer, Milden weathered the opening bowlers and started to get stuck into the next lot. Alex played some nice shots but eventually holed out in the deep to a well taken catch.
Woody joined Rich and they continued to push the runs, Milden trying to get a competitive total, Woody supported Rich well before being bowled by M.Theolbold for 9, I think he thanked him for the send off.!! Smith supported Rich as Milden looked at closing out the innings and their 40 overs, Harding was really in his stride but Smith did not hold back and after watching a few, produced some cultured lofted drives and boundaries to boot. Harding passed his 50 and really got stuck into M.Theobold in the last over to leave Milden 160 for 8 in the 40th over, S.Theobold who bowled well with his opening spin and M.Theobold shared 3 wickets a piece with D.Boon the other wicket taker.
Tea was taken and Sumo and put his hand up to provide the first home tea of the year. He had been working on his Egg Sandwich methodology in the close season and even had sent Skip a picture to get him excited before the game, he didn’t disappoint, right seasoning, cress and plenty of it !! The supporting cast of sausage rolls, tuna mayo, cheese and ham were not as good as the main billing, but would it ever be? Plenty of cakes and crisps and some fruit to boot, everyone tucked in, including those that had come to watch this local derby. 8 out of 10 for Sumo, well done!!
TK gathered the troops in a huddle and spelled out to them that we had to show our character, apply ourselves and do what Milden did well last year, work out how to win games. Hayton ran in down the hill and bowled with pace but Bellward was up to the task and punished anything short or wide. Greg got stuck into him a bit but the batsman was on top. M.Theobold opened the batting as well, but Smith soon dispatched him, clipping the top of off stump for 6. Bellward was really starting to push the runs playing some lovely cultured shots and Lavenham were building a response. However, Smith, running up the Milden hill soon dragged Milden back into the game, bowling Madel for 4, C.Boon for 7 and Cruse for a duck.
TK rotated the bowling and Hayton was replaced by Zahid who only managed 3 balls due to an ankle injury and Pat finished off his over, nearly snaffling the dangerous Bellward. Tk came on at the top end and Woody bowled from the bottom end, Woody using all his experience, just bowled line and length and with a beauty of a delivery, bowled Bellward for 44. But this is a Milden v Lavenham game and one thing is sure, both sides want to win. The Lavenham batsmen continued to dig in and accumulate runs, Captain Robinson giving no quarter, but Woody in his chirpy and efficient style, kept bowling lines and soon had Nice well caught by a diving TK. Milden spilled a couple of really tough catches but Woody clean bowled Levett and Milden were on top. But the game started to swing back to Lavenhams favour as the runs ticked up and Milden could not find a breakthrough. Hayton was re-introduced and he got the crucial wickets of skipper Robinson and Theobold, bowling both of them cleanly.
With Hayton and Woody bowled out, TK and Smith tried to get the last wicket, a mix up between Zahid and Zahid saw him not take a simple catch in the slips, blaming it on Archer. Nevertheless as Lavenham got close, so the overs started to tick down and in with a rash shot, Ellis skied one to Archer who calmly took it in the deep, Milden victory. Great bowling from everyone, Greg came back well to finish with 2 for 57, Wooderson bowled really well for his 3 for 25, Archer was wicketless but bowled 3 overs for a miserly 8 runs, TK picked up 1 for 18 but Joe Smith was star performer with 4 for 24 off his 8 overs.
The beans this week was a tough decision with Smith and Harding both in the frame but just for giving us the chance to win, Richard Harding picks up Man of the Match with his 59 not out.
A really competitive game, played in the right spirit and a show was put on to all those people that came to watch on a beautiful May afternoon. Village cricket at its best. Both teams retreated to the Edwardstone White Horse where Mick in his customary Yorkshire way, put on a splendid spread of chips, roast potatoes, Yorkshire puddings, sausages and of course GRAVY. !! We shared a few beers with the opposition and wish them very well for the rest of the season, see you later in the year.
Final big thanks to those players that came up to the ground to support and helped with putting stuff away etc after the game, it is very much appreciated not just by myself but everyone in the club. Whilst we have a good team and a terrific squad, we also have a magnificent club.
Next week we are at home again to Battisford, everyone welcome.
Up the Meldes !!
Hunts County Cricket League Division 4
Sunday 23rd April 2017
Elveden Cricket Club 111 for 9
Milden Cricket Club 160 for 8
Milden won by 49 runs
Milden travelled over to Elveden for the opening game of the 2017 season for this Division 4 fixture. With the celebration and euphoria over from last year, they were determined to give a good account of themselves, albeit, playing against a team they had faced 2 years ago in Division 5.
TK walked out to the middle and won the toss and had no hesitation in batting on what looked like a firm and dry wicket and wanted to get the best use of it. Boris and Sumo pulled on their pads and began at first watching the tight bowling before helping themselves to some lusty blows and cultured shots, great to see Sumo enjoying his cricket again following his injury last year. Boris cut and pulled well and not before long, Milden were racking at 4 an over and a partnership of 50 was put on.
Their partnership continued to the 15th over before Sumo unluckily played onto his stumps with the score 60 for 1 and Sumo departing for 23. Humphries strode to the crease and he and Boris continued to put the Elveden bowling to the sword, Pat in particular playing some terrific cuts to the boundary. Both batsman were going along nicely until Pat went for one heave to many and departed for 33, being caught and bowled by Pearson, Milden 122 for 2.
TK joined Boris who two balls later departed having got his 50 and played loosely to be caught for 55. Budgie making a welcome return to Milden after a few years out was quickly back into his stride with his cultured and watchful batting, but TK did not hang around to watch it closely as he was well bowled for 2.
A mini batting collapse followed with wickets falling quickly and runs difficult to come by, Wooderson looked in great nick making his debut for Milden and tried to push runs along but fell for 10 being stumped. Lucas and Leppard entered and left the crease both going for ducks as Milden looked to set a competitive total. Budgie and St Ledger steadied the ship and saw Milden through to the end of 40 overs and helped set a competitive but below par score, Budgie bowled off the last ball for 17, Milden 160 for 8.
Tea was taken and a lovely spread was laid on, tuna mayo and cheese and onion sandwiches surrounded by homemade chips, scotch eggs and chicken nuggets and a range of salty snacks, TK stood around waiting for the egg sandwiches but they never showed, crest fallen he had some tea and a sulk.
The customary huddle was had and TK impressed on the payers the need to do all the good things that they had done last year and to really show some energy and application in the field. Hayton and Leppard opened and bowled some really tight stuff, any boundaries flying off the edge just out of grasp. 8 overs passed with continued pressure and it was Hayton of literally removed the stump out of the ground bowling Flack cleanly. Hayton had built up a real head of steam now and was swinging the ball both was at pace and in the 11th over picked up the wickets of Pearson and Green, stumps splayed all over the place, Elveden were 26 for 3. Kent continued to bat nicely and Slaughter joined him, looking dangerous, dispatching Leppard for 6, only for Leppard to come back straight away and clean bowl him for his first wicket of the season.
TK rotated the bowling and Archer and new boy Woody came into the attack, two spinners in tandem and both bowled tightly and with control. Some excellent fielding from the team, supported the bowlers, in particular Lucas, St Ledger and Humphries put the pressure on Elveden.
Archer picked up his first wicket and accounted for L .Kent, Pat Humphries taking a great catch in the deep. At the other end Woody bowled some really good deliveries and soon was in the wickets bowling Darsey and having Rodic trapped LBW. However, the run out of the dangerous R.Kent (42) changed the game in Mildens favour, fielding off his own bowling and with one stump to aim at, Woody expertly run our Rodic who tried to take a quick single. Milden were buzzing in the field and began to try and bowl out the rest of the Elveden team.
TK turned his arm for a couple of overs, unlucky not to account for G. Kent, dropped by the keeper following a big nick behind. Rotating the bowling again, St Ledger came into the attack and with his first ball picked up the wicket of G. Kent, TK taking a diving catch in the covers. The last wicket could not be taken as Elveden batted out the innings as the sun went down on a glorious afternoon, Elveden 111 for 9.
Some real positives to take out of the game, our bowling and fielding was terrific, Greg showed the way as he always does and Nick supported immensely with some tight bowling. Archer bowled his best spell for Milden and new boy Wooderson impressed with his bowling and fielding. Generally a great effort from everyone. Our batting was a bit below par but on a two paced wicket and a slowish outfield, we can’t complain.
So the season is underway and we go on, one thing we have not lost is our passion, enthusiasm and team spirit, if anything it has got stronger. We even had two supporters come and watch in James Harding and Richard Stennet, thanks chaps, much appreciated.
UP THE MELDES !!
Sunday 23rd April 2017
Elveden Cricket Club 111 for 9
Milden Cricket Club 160 for 8
Milden won by 49 runs
Milden travelled over to Elveden for the opening game of the 2017 season for this Division 4 fixture. With the celebration and euphoria over from last year, they were determined to give a good account of themselves, albeit, playing against a team they had faced 2 years ago in Division 5.
TK walked out to the middle and won the toss and had no hesitation in batting on what looked like a firm and dry wicket and wanted to get the best use of it. Boris and Sumo pulled on their pads and began at first watching the tight bowling before helping themselves to some lusty blows and cultured shots, great to see Sumo enjoying his cricket again following his injury last year. Boris cut and pulled well and not before long, Milden were racking at 4 an over and a partnership of 50 was put on.
Their partnership continued to the 15th over before Sumo unluckily played onto his stumps with the score 60 for 1 and Sumo departing for 23. Humphries strode to the crease and he and Boris continued to put the Elveden bowling to the sword, Pat in particular playing some terrific cuts to the boundary. Both batsman were going along nicely until Pat went for one heave to many and departed for 33, being caught and bowled by Pearson, Milden 122 for 2.
TK joined Boris who two balls later departed having got his 50 and played loosely to be caught for 55. Budgie making a welcome return to Milden after a few years out was quickly back into his stride with his cultured and watchful batting, but TK did not hang around to watch it closely as he was well bowled for 2.
A mini batting collapse followed with wickets falling quickly and runs difficult to come by, Wooderson looked in great nick making his debut for Milden and tried to push runs along but fell for 10 being stumped. Lucas and Leppard entered and left the crease both going for ducks as Milden looked to set a competitive total. Budgie and St Ledger steadied the ship and saw Milden through to the end of 40 overs and helped set a competitive but below par score, Budgie bowled off the last ball for 17, Milden 160 for 8.
Tea was taken and a lovely spread was laid on, tuna mayo and cheese and onion sandwiches surrounded by homemade chips, scotch eggs and chicken nuggets and a range of salty snacks, TK stood around waiting for the egg sandwiches but they never showed, crest fallen he had some tea and a sulk.
The customary huddle was had and TK impressed on the payers the need to do all the good things that they had done last year and to really show some energy and application in the field. Hayton and Leppard opened and bowled some really tight stuff, any boundaries flying off the edge just out of grasp. 8 overs passed with continued pressure and it was Hayton of literally removed the stump out of the ground bowling Flack cleanly. Hayton had built up a real head of steam now and was swinging the ball both was at pace and in the 11th over picked up the wickets of Pearson and Green, stumps splayed all over the place, Elveden were 26 for 3. Kent continued to bat nicely and Slaughter joined him, looking dangerous, dispatching Leppard for 6, only for Leppard to come back straight away and clean bowl him for his first wicket of the season.
TK rotated the bowling and Archer and new boy Woody came into the attack, two spinners in tandem and both bowled tightly and with control. Some excellent fielding from the team, supported the bowlers, in particular Lucas, St Ledger and Humphries put the pressure on Elveden.
Archer picked up his first wicket and accounted for L .Kent, Pat Humphries taking a great catch in the deep. At the other end Woody bowled some really good deliveries and soon was in the wickets bowling Darsey and having Rodic trapped LBW. However, the run out of the dangerous R.Kent (42) changed the game in Mildens favour, fielding off his own bowling and with one stump to aim at, Woody expertly run our Rodic who tried to take a quick single. Milden were buzzing in the field and began to try and bowl out the rest of the Elveden team.
TK turned his arm for a couple of overs, unlucky not to account for G. Kent, dropped by the keeper following a big nick behind. Rotating the bowling again, St Ledger came into the attack and with his first ball picked up the wicket of G. Kent, TK taking a diving catch in the covers. The last wicket could not be taken as Elveden batted out the innings as the sun went down on a glorious afternoon, Elveden 111 for 9.
Some real positives to take out of the game, our bowling and fielding was terrific, Greg showed the way as he always does and Nick supported immensely with some tight bowling. Archer bowled his best spell for Milden and new boy Wooderson impressed with his bowling and fielding. Generally a great effort from everyone. Our batting was a bit below par but on a two paced wicket and a slowish outfield, we can’t complain.
So the season is underway and we go on, one thing we have not lost is our passion, enthusiasm and team spirit, if anything it has got stronger. We even had two supporters come and watch in James Harding and Richard Stennet, thanks chaps, much appreciated.
UP THE MELDES !!
Hunts County Cricket League Division 5
Sunday 21st August 2016
Milden Cricket Club 204 for 3
Twinstead Cricket Club 140 All Out
Milden made the short journey to Twinstead to take on the 4th placed side in the league. The weather was set fair with a couple of showers but warm. TK unsurprisingly had a big squad to choose from this week, a win would see Milden crowned Champions and undefeated for the season.
TK went to the middle and unsurprisingly lost the toss but Milden were asked to bat on a good looking strip and a small ground. Boris and Richard Harding went out to bat and got Milden off to a good start, playing some terrific shots and watching the bowling well. Milden were going at 4 an over as both batsmen played some good cricket and ran well. Rich Harding played some terrific shots of the back foot and Boris cut and pulled well. The score got to 69 when Richard cut one loosely and was well caught at gully for 32. TK, who by the way was a bag of nerves, walked to the crease and played numerous nervous shots. This seemed to permeate through the team as Boris was soon on his way back to the pavilion pulling one straight down square legs throat for 23.
Will Ward strode to the crease and played a watchful innings, him and TK running well between the wickets but Will misjudged one and was given out LBW. Pat Humphries joined TK with the score at 77 for 2.
Both batsmen looked a bit on edge but soon started to grind out runs as Twinstead bowled some tight lines. Twinstead bowler Samard really bowled well ensuring TK and Pat played watchfully, however, Humphries punished anything wayward and started to dominate the bowler with his customary cover drives which raced to the boundry for 4. At the other end, TK punished anything that was short and wide and launched Samard for a couple of sixes when he felt he was set. Both batsmen ran well between the wickets and at 30 overs the score stood at 117 for 3. Milden knew that 175 was the target but TK and Pat took to the bowling and with some good running and some good driving, took the score to 204 for 3. TK 63 not out, Pat 62 not out.
Tea was taken and although no egg sandwiches were on offer, a delicious spread of sandwiches, sausage rolls and cakes were laid on with lots of hot tea. Everyone tucked in, even the supporters who had made the trip to watch the mighty Meldes, big thanks to Mick, Mark St Ledger, Rhian, Sumo, Jane, Joe Smith, Matty Archer and Monty for making the trip, you support was very welcome.
Following TK’s customary Charlotte Church team talk and Greg Hayton chipping in with some wise words, Milden took to the field, Greg and Nick Leppard opened the bowling with Greg bowling with great paxce and Nick swinging it side ways. Twinstead opener Dastur got the brunt of Haytons pace, rapping on the fingers numerous times, beating the bat regularly. Hayton struck first, finally removing Dastur when he played on and Leppard soon too was in the wickets when he removed Logan for nought, caught and bowled. Milden were on a roll but Samard strode to the crease and soon started to play some very wristy shots, punishing anything off his legs for 4. The scoreboard started to rotate and Twinstead were looking at pushing the total forward. Harding kept exceptionally behind the stumps, backed up by Tim Lucas at fine leg, steming the flow of boundaries on a small outfield and James pipe patrolling the boundary with effect. Milden stuck to their game plan and whilst runs were being had, chances were too, with both batsmen playing missing. Hayton continued to bowl with pace and guile and Samard flicked one too many off his legs and Will Ward took a tremendous catch, low down, as if he was catching a kitten at mid-wicket to remove Samard for 40. Game changing moment.
TK rotated the bowling and Zahid came on for Hayton and TK brought himself on at the top end. Zahid was soon into the wickets, bowling A. Ward for 2, Milden were in the hunt. TK wheeled away from one end without much luck but also few runs. The scoreboard continue to tick over with Twinstead picking up runs, Milden looked edgy in the field but stuck to their guns. TK made the break through trapping Khan LBW and soon he too clean bowled the dangerous Lucking to give Milden a sniff of victory.
Zahid struggled with his ankle so Every was introduced to the bowling attack and soon was amongst the wickets. Ferris bowled with real enthusiasm and skill, swinging the ball and seaming it too. Every firstly removed the stubborn opener Cartlidge, trapping him LBW and then soon was in the wickets again cleaning up Holmes, Milden were on the edge of history. TK picked up one more wicket, caught and bowled Boggis for 0. With one wicket left, Leppard came back on and bowled bang on the mark, Milden were cruising. However, Milden wanted all 10 wickets and skipper Lucking and Teager dug in to make Milden earn their championship. But Leppard, with his nagging line and away swing, picked up Teager’s wicket with a swinging delivery which Richard Harding snaffled behind the stumps. CHAMPIONS !!!
Milden were warmly applauded by our excellent hosts Twinstead, handshakes all round, classy team who will surely top Division 5 next year. A quick photo of all the team and supporters ended up in a quick soaking of champagne as Milden celebrated their victory. Milden bought beers and chatted with Twinstead after the game, again made to feel very welcome.
A few hasty phone calls were made to wives and girlfriends as Milden retreated to the Edwardstone White Horse, Mick laid on a terrific spread of roast potatoes and pizza, with champagne!!! Milden were joined by more supporters, tanks for Scott and Jim Rodger-Brown coming along to share a beer with us and adorned in their Milden polo shirts.
Boris brought the fines money with him and that went behind the bar as the players tucked into beers and well celebrated victory and league championship.
As a club, in 12 months we have come a long way. From a November evening when the committee sat down to plan for this season to winning the league and going unbeaten. But its more than that, we have a magical team spirit and resolve to go with it. We have more players and supporters, people always ask about Milden Cricket Club. We have an ambition and spirit that no one can take away from us, yes, winning the league was important, being promoted key, but having a club to be proud of and a bunch of people that care, priceless!
Pleased to be a champion, Proud to be a Mildener!!
UP THE MELDES !!!!
Sunday 21st August 2016
Milden Cricket Club 204 for 3
Twinstead Cricket Club 140 All Out
Milden made the short journey to Twinstead to take on the 4th placed side in the league. The weather was set fair with a couple of showers but warm. TK unsurprisingly had a big squad to choose from this week, a win would see Milden crowned Champions and undefeated for the season.
TK went to the middle and unsurprisingly lost the toss but Milden were asked to bat on a good looking strip and a small ground. Boris and Richard Harding went out to bat and got Milden off to a good start, playing some terrific shots and watching the bowling well. Milden were going at 4 an over as both batsmen played some good cricket and ran well. Rich Harding played some terrific shots of the back foot and Boris cut and pulled well. The score got to 69 when Richard cut one loosely and was well caught at gully for 32. TK, who by the way was a bag of nerves, walked to the crease and played numerous nervous shots. This seemed to permeate through the team as Boris was soon on his way back to the pavilion pulling one straight down square legs throat for 23.
Will Ward strode to the crease and played a watchful innings, him and TK running well between the wickets but Will misjudged one and was given out LBW. Pat Humphries joined TK with the score at 77 for 2.
Both batsmen looked a bit on edge but soon started to grind out runs as Twinstead bowled some tight lines. Twinstead bowler Samard really bowled well ensuring TK and Pat played watchfully, however, Humphries punished anything wayward and started to dominate the bowler with his customary cover drives which raced to the boundry for 4. At the other end, TK punished anything that was short and wide and launched Samard for a couple of sixes when he felt he was set. Both batsmen ran well between the wickets and at 30 overs the score stood at 117 for 3. Milden knew that 175 was the target but TK and Pat took to the bowling and with some good running and some good driving, took the score to 204 for 3. TK 63 not out, Pat 62 not out.
Tea was taken and although no egg sandwiches were on offer, a delicious spread of sandwiches, sausage rolls and cakes were laid on with lots of hot tea. Everyone tucked in, even the supporters who had made the trip to watch the mighty Meldes, big thanks to Mick, Mark St Ledger, Rhian, Sumo, Jane, Joe Smith, Matty Archer and Monty for making the trip, you support was very welcome.
Following TK’s customary Charlotte Church team talk and Greg Hayton chipping in with some wise words, Milden took to the field, Greg and Nick Leppard opened the bowling with Greg bowling with great paxce and Nick swinging it side ways. Twinstead opener Dastur got the brunt of Haytons pace, rapping on the fingers numerous times, beating the bat regularly. Hayton struck first, finally removing Dastur when he played on and Leppard soon too was in the wickets when he removed Logan for nought, caught and bowled. Milden were on a roll but Samard strode to the crease and soon started to play some very wristy shots, punishing anything off his legs for 4. The scoreboard started to rotate and Twinstead were looking at pushing the total forward. Harding kept exceptionally behind the stumps, backed up by Tim Lucas at fine leg, steming the flow of boundaries on a small outfield and James pipe patrolling the boundary with effect. Milden stuck to their game plan and whilst runs were being had, chances were too, with both batsmen playing missing. Hayton continued to bowl with pace and guile and Samard flicked one too many off his legs and Will Ward took a tremendous catch, low down, as if he was catching a kitten at mid-wicket to remove Samard for 40. Game changing moment.
TK rotated the bowling and Zahid came on for Hayton and TK brought himself on at the top end. Zahid was soon into the wickets, bowling A. Ward for 2, Milden were in the hunt. TK wheeled away from one end without much luck but also few runs. The scoreboard continue to tick over with Twinstead picking up runs, Milden looked edgy in the field but stuck to their guns. TK made the break through trapping Khan LBW and soon he too clean bowled the dangerous Lucking to give Milden a sniff of victory.
Zahid struggled with his ankle so Every was introduced to the bowling attack and soon was amongst the wickets. Ferris bowled with real enthusiasm and skill, swinging the ball and seaming it too. Every firstly removed the stubborn opener Cartlidge, trapping him LBW and then soon was in the wickets again cleaning up Holmes, Milden were on the edge of history. TK picked up one more wicket, caught and bowled Boggis for 0. With one wicket left, Leppard came back on and bowled bang on the mark, Milden were cruising. However, Milden wanted all 10 wickets and skipper Lucking and Teager dug in to make Milden earn their championship. But Leppard, with his nagging line and away swing, picked up Teager’s wicket with a swinging delivery which Richard Harding snaffled behind the stumps. CHAMPIONS !!!
Milden were warmly applauded by our excellent hosts Twinstead, handshakes all round, classy team who will surely top Division 5 next year. A quick photo of all the team and supporters ended up in a quick soaking of champagne as Milden celebrated their victory. Milden bought beers and chatted with Twinstead after the game, again made to feel very welcome.
A few hasty phone calls were made to wives and girlfriends as Milden retreated to the Edwardstone White Horse, Mick laid on a terrific spread of roast potatoes and pizza, with champagne!!! Milden were joined by more supporters, tanks for Scott and Jim Rodger-Brown coming along to share a beer with us and adorned in their Milden polo shirts.
Boris brought the fines money with him and that went behind the bar as the players tucked into beers and well celebrated victory and league championship.
As a club, in 12 months we have come a long way. From a November evening when the committee sat down to plan for this season to winning the league and going unbeaten. But its more than that, we have a magical team spirit and resolve to go with it. We have more players and supporters, people always ask about Milden Cricket Club. We have an ambition and spirit that no one can take away from us, yes, winning the league was important, being promoted key, but having a club to be proud of and a bunch of people that care, priceless!
Pleased to be a champion, Proud to be a Mildener!!
UP THE MELDES !!!!
Hunts County Cricket League Division 5
Sunday 14th August 2016
Milden Cricket Club 250 for 5
Great Cornard 129 All Out
Milden made the short trip this week to our friends and near neighbours Great Cornard. Milden arrived to find a good wicket prepared and a quick outfield. TK walked to the middle to call correctly when the Cornard skipper asked him to call heads or tails, there was no hesitation in electing to bat first on a warm day.
TK and Boris opened the innings both negotiating the first few overs from Barlow and Docherty, till TK played at a good one and nicked it behind for a duck, not hanging around to see the finger go up, 4 for 1. Will Ward came in at number 3 and played some nice shots but he too was soon back in the hutch, nicking one behind. Milden were getting a bit twitchy after too quick wickets down and the Cornard bowlers seemingly on top. Pat Humphries and Boris began to rebuild the innings, firstly seeing off the dangerous opening bowlers and then began to put down the foundations of an innings. Boris took the lead, not sure what he has been having for breakfast but he punished anything short or wide for 4. At the other end, Pat played some classy shots and there was some terrific running between them.
Milden went past 100 and the runs continued to flow at a good lick. Both batsman continued to put the Cornard bowlers to the sword, making the Cornard skipper rotate them, but to no avail. With the score of 164, Pat eventually was stumped for an excellent 59.
Boris was joined at the crease by Alex Zahid and the two continued to pile on the runs. Alex played very watchfully to start with but soon tucked into the bowling, sending sixes out of the ground and all around. At the other end, Boris continued to play his shots and eventually brought up his ton with a neat flick off his hips for 4. Milden passed 200 and Boris on a 108, just got one that nipped back and was bowled for a very ,very good 108.
Tim Lucas joined Zahid and he too played some excellent shots, particularly a terrific cut of his back foot for 4. He supported Zahid well and big Alex who notched up another 50 run. However, he was soon out a couple of balls later, a leading edge skied, his downfall.
Joe Smith and Tim continued to pile on the runs for the last few balls, finishing the Milden innings on 250 for 5.
Tea was taken in the club house and Great Cornard laid on a terrific spread, massive selection of sandwiches, quiche, sausage rolls and crisps. Lots of cakes as well all washed down with squash, tea or coffee. Egg sandwiches got a solid 8 out of 10. Well done Cornard.
Milden took to the field with TK behind the stumps and Greg Hayton and Joe Smith opening the bowling. TK emphasised the need not to be complacent and to keep the standards that we had set ourselves. Greg once again bowled with real pace and skill and was far too good for the Cornard batsmen. Joe Smith steamed in up the hill and it was he who took the first wicket, having M Lewis caught well by Zahid in the slips. Greg continue to torment the batsmen and eventually clean bowled Button with torpedo of a delivery. Smith swung the ball both ways and he got the prize wicket of Barlow, jagging one into his pads before the ball crashed into the stumps. Hayton accounted for A. Gill with a snorter of a delivery of pace and bounce which he gloved and TK did the rest behind the stumps.
TK rotated his bowlers and James Pipe and Matty Archer came on to try and break the back of the Cornard innings. Docherty had dug in and played well but the ball was going in the air, Milden could not quite get the field right and take another wicket. Matt eventually got one on the right line and clean bowled Docherty which was a good wicket to get. At the other end, James was a little unlucky not to pick up a wicket as he bowled a few lovely deliveries and couple of catches did not quite go to hand, more consistency required from both bowlers. Matt finished on 1 for 28 off his for and James on 0 for 33.
With the score creeping up, TK went to the legend that is Leppard, he bowled like a machine and with his third ball took the wicket of Cansell, knocking over his stumps beautifully. Both Nick and now Joe Smith continued to bowl some great consistent lines and Nick was unlucky not to pick up more wickets. Tim Lucas was a tiger close in and chased down anything for single to stifle the Cornard innings further. With a sniff of a ‘Michelle’, Joe Smith ran in and soon had McAndrew, J Gill and finally Arnot all out for ducks to end the Great Cornard innings on 129 and finish with 5 for 31. Greg Hayton finished with 2 for 22 and Nicky Leppard 1 for 4 off his 3 overs.
Another god performance but whilst Milden were really pleased with our batting and bowling performance, we acknowledged the fielding was not up to par. However, another terrific win, scoring over 200 runs for the third week running. An excellent 108 from Boris and good 50’s from Alex and Pat. Greg bowled well as always and unlucky not to take more wickets, Joe Smith, first five ‘fer for the club. Beans this week go again to Boris, hope you sunburn gets well soon !! Big thanks to Mark St Ledger for coming along to support the boys.
Milden retired to the bar to join our hosts and talk about cricket, they laid on an excellent BBQ for us, showing real hospitality and class. A few beers and stories are shared and we wish them well for next year and the years to come. Classy.
So next week, we stand on the edge of recent Milden history, all that hard work from the players, supports, committee and friends of Milden has given us a chance to win the league and etch our names in local folklore. Be not mistaken, people know who we are, they ask after our results and follow us on social media and the web. They know this team, in there smart polo shirts that they see very week, don’t just talk the talk, but walk the walk. SO an ask from Milden Cricket Club, if you can come and support us at Twinstead it would be much appreciated. Some players may not play, but together we have grown again as a club, help us celebrate promotion next Sunday which we have already achieved and hopefully a league title to go with it.
As we left Cornard and thanked them for the game, their keeper Button said to me, ‘make sure you win on Sunday, you deserve it’ I promised him that we would. It left me thinking, was he referring to how well we have played, maybe, or how we play the game, probably.
UP THE MELDES !!!!
Sunday 14th August 2016
Milden Cricket Club 250 for 5
Great Cornard 129 All Out
Milden made the short trip this week to our friends and near neighbours Great Cornard. Milden arrived to find a good wicket prepared and a quick outfield. TK walked to the middle to call correctly when the Cornard skipper asked him to call heads or tails, there was no hesitation in electing to bat first on a warm day.
TK and Boris opened the innings both negotiating the first few overs from Barlow and Docherty, till TK played at a good one and nicked it behind for a duck, not hanging around to see the finger go up, 4 for 1. Will Ward came in at number 3 and played some nice shots but he too was soon back in the hutch, nicking one behind. Milden were getting a bit twitchy after too quick wickets down and the Cornard bowlers seemingly on top. Pat Humphries and Boris began to rebuild the innings, firstly seeing off the dangerous opening bowlers and then began to put down the foundations of an innings. Boris took the lead, not sure what he has been having for breakfast but he punished anything short or wide for 4. At the other end, Pat played some classy shots and there was some terrific running between them.
Milden went past 100 and the runs continued to flow at a good lick. Both batsman continued to put the Cornard bowlers to the sword, making the Cornard skipper rotate them, but to no avail. With the score of 164, Pat eventually was stumped for an excellent 59.
Boris was joined at the crease by Alex Zahid and the two continued to pile on the runs. Alex played very watchfully to start with but soon tucked into the bowling, sending sixes out of the ground and all around. At the other end, Boris continued to play his shots and eventually brought up his ton with a neat flick off his hips for 4. Milden passed 200 and Boris on a 108, just got one that nipped back and was bowled for a very ,very good 108.
Tim Lucas joined Zahid and he too played some excellent shots, particularly a terrific cut of his back foot for 4. He supported Zahid well and big Alex who notched up another 50 run. However, he was soon out a couple of balls later, a leading edge skied, his downfall.
Joe Smith and Tim continued to pile on the runs for the last few balls, finishing the Milden innings on 250 for 5.
Tea was taken in the club house and Great Cornard laid on a terrific spread, massive selection of sandwiches, quiche, sausage rolls and crisps. Lots of cakes as well all washed down with squash, tea or coffee. Egg sandwiches got a solid 8 out of 10. Well done Cornard.
Milden took to the field with TK behind the stumps and Greg Hayton and Joe Smith opening the bowling. TK emphasised the need not to be complacent and to keep the standards that we had set ourselves. Greg once again bowled with real pace and skill and was far too good for the Cornard batsmen. Joe Smith steamed in up the hill and it was he who took the first wicket, having M Lewis caught well by Zahid in the slips. Greg continue to torment the batsmen and eventually clean bowled Button with torpedo of a delivery. Smith swung the ball both ways and he got the prize wicket of Barlow, jagging one into his pads before the ball crashed into the stumps. Hayton accounted for A. Gill with a snorter of a delivery of pace and bounce which he gloved and TK did the rest behind the stumps.
TK rotated his bowlers and James Pipe and Matty Archer came on to try and break the back of the Cornard innings. Docherty had dug in and played well but the ball was going in the air, Milden could not quite get the field right and take another wicket. Matt eventually got one on the right line and clean bowled Docherty which was a good wicket to get. At the other end, James was a little unlucky not to pick up a wicket as he bowled a few lovely deliveries and couple of catches did not quite go to hand, more consistency required from both bowlers. Matt finished on 1 for 28 off his for and James on 0 for 33.
With the score creeping up, TK went to the legend that is Leppard, he bowled like a machine and with his third ball took the wicket of Cansell, knocking over his stumps beautifully. Both Nick and now Joe Smith continued to bowl some great consistent lines and Nick was unlucky not to pick up more wickets. Tim Lucas was a tiger close in and chased down anything for single to stifle the Cornard innings further. With a sniff of a ‘Michelle’, Joe Smith ran in and soon had McAndrew, J Gill and finally Arnot all out for ducks to end the Great Cornard innings on 129 and finish with 5 for 31. Greg Hayton finished with 2 for 22 and Nicky Leppard 1 for 4 off his 3 overs.
Another god performance but whilst Milden were really pleased with our batting and bowling performance, we acknowledged the fielding was not up to par. However, another terrific win, scoring over 200 runs for the third week running. An excellent 108 from Boris and good 50’s from Alex and Pat. Greg bowled well as always and unlucky not to take more wickets, Joe Smith, first five ‘fer for the club. Beans this week go again to Boris, hope you sunburn gets well soon !! Big thanks to Mark St Ledger for coming along to support the boys.
Milden retired to the bar to join our hosts and talk about cricket, they laid on an excellent BBQ for us, showing real hospitality and class. A few beers and stories are shared and we wish them well for next year and the years to come. Classy.
So next week, we stand on the edge of recent Milden history, all that hard work from the players, supports, committee and friends of Milden has given us a chance to win the league and etch our names in local folklore. Be not mistaken, people know who we are, they ask after our results and follow us on social media and the web. They know this team, in there smart polo shirts that they see very week, don’t just talk the talk, but walk the walk. SO an ask from Milden Cricket Club, if you can come and support us at Twinstead it would be much appreciated. Some players may not play, but together we have grown again as a club, help us celebrate promotion next Sunday which we have already achieved and hopefully a league title to go with it.
As we left Cornard and thanked them for the game, their keeper Button said to me, ‘make sure you win on Sunday, you deserve it’ I promised him that we would. It left me thinking, was he referring to how well we have played, maybe, or how we play the game, probably.
UP THE MELDES !!!!
Hunts County Cricket League Division 5
Sunday 7th August 2016
Milden Cricket Club 259 for 5
Elmswell 45 All Out
Milden were playing their last home game this season at the Sportsfield and welcomed Elmswell on a sunny and warm afternoon. The wicket looked terrific again, much work in the winter and spring by Richard Harding and Jim Roger Brown has meant we are getting some belters. TK walked out to the middle with the Elmswell skipper and lost the toss, but Elmswell decided to field first.
Boris and TK opened the batting this week and picked up from the week before, playing some tidy shots and dispatching any bad balls to the boundary. Boris in particular, tucking into some errant bowling. After 10 overs, Milden stood at 58 and drinks were soon taken at 15. TK and Boris continued to plunder the bowling sending Milden past 100 and then 120 with some good boundary hitting and sharp running between the wickets. TK tried to repeat another six into the Watsons but missed and was sent back to the pavilion, bowled for 73.
Will Ward joined Boris and they continued to hit the bowling around with some good sharp running but Ward went to push on for what was looking like a big total and was caught for 10. Boris still hung around and he and Pat continued to pile on the runs before Pat was also well caught for 10. Alex Zahid was at the crease but soon had a new partner when Boris finally bowled for 83. Matt Archer made his debut with the bat but got a first ball LBW, back in the hutch with Joe Smith making his debut with the bat for Milden. In the mean-time, Zahid had set about the Elmswell bowlers. The assembled crowd did not know if they were going to get Box office or Bollywood, but Zahid delivered the goods with some massive hitting of sixes and fours to all parts of the ground, sticking one into the church yard, a few in Morleys fields and customary one into the Watsons which brought up his 50 and closed the Milden innings. Zahid 54 not out and Joe Smith 6 not out.
The players retired to the players retired to the pavilion where Greg Hayton had got the gingham table cloth out this week and laid out a terrific tea for all to consume. A big selection this week, Hayton too had decided to go for the roll methodology with ham, cheese and egg to boot. TK circled the egg sandwiches and plundered them as he had the Elmswell bowling. In addition, Greg just returning from his European holiday, dropped in a couple of freshly baked baguettes and delicious pate, DIY style. This was all accompanied by a huge range of sweet things which Zahid tried to try each and everyone, a delicious homemade cornflake cake and more crisps and chocolate delights. Terrific effort from Hayton 8 out 10 was the consensus from the players for the egg sandwiches.
TK donned the gloves and following his team talk, wound the Milden players into a frenzy. Hayton came steaming down the hill and Joe Smith up the slope. The fielders were buzzing and some really sharp fielding began to turn the screw on the Elmswell batsmen. It was not long before Hayton cleaned bowled the opening batsman and Joe Smith was soon too at the party clean bowling the other. Both bowlers bowled with pace and control, Hayton really giving the batsman something to think about. Hooping it about, Hayton soon had another wicket with an excellent LBW. Smith kept up with Hayton when a edge was snaffled by TK behind the stumps. Another soon followed when he clean bowled for his third.
With lots of bowling at his disposal, TK shuffled his bowlers around. Every and Archer took up the mantle and following a couple of losseners, Archer picked up a wicket clean bowling the Elmswell number 5. Alan Every swung the ball about but bowled the tenacious and dangerous Haines when a well flighted delivery bamboozled Haines swinging cutting of the seam to clip the top pf off stump to send the Mildeners into raptures, mobbing Every for a terrific wicket. Milden were on top and soon both Matty Archer and Alan picked up another wicket each to pretty much end the Elmswell innings.
Milden sent in their last batsmen, 8 year old George Moss, both bat and helmet bigger than him. James Pipe was now on and young Moss picked up a single with his third delivery. James Pipe then cleaned up the Elmswell wicket keeper with a well flighted and swinging delivery and TK did the rest with the stumping to end the Elmswell resistance. Milden created a guard of honour for young George Moss as he left the field, clapping him off as he went. Whilst the bowlers bowled really well today, the fielding was absolutely terrific, suffocating the Elmswell run chase. Pat Humphries set the bar, with Matt Archer and James Pipe doing also particularly well in during up the runs. Will Ward, the quiet man of the team, went about his business in the field without fuss as always, great effort.
A big thank you must also go to Tim Lucas,Mrs Every and Jane for helping to do all the washing and clearing up after tea, much appreciated.
Milden retired to the Edwardstone White Horse, where as always, Mick and June welcomed the Mildeners. Mick in his Milden polo shirt and June in her flowing summer outfit, dished up a selection of sausage sandwiches and chips. Ben Abbott was kept busy behind the bar as a few jugs were owed and we enjoyed the company of Elmswell who joined us for a beer.
A large amount of credit should go to Elmswell who really made a game of it and stuck to their tasks on a very warm day, also terrific seeing a young lad playing mens cricket. Really pleased also with the Milden team that played with flair, aggression and some style to win.
A couple of quick phone calls by Greg Hayton soon confirmed Mildens promotion as Cornard had lost heavily to Lavenham who still have their own title aspirations. No big wild celebrations, I think we are all focused on going for the title, however, we should recognise this achievement !
Next week, Milden play away at Great Cornard who will be bang up this local derby. Milden can take another big step forward towards the league title, support is always welcome.
UP THE MELDES !!!!
Sunday 7th August 2016
Milden Cricket Club 259 for 5
Elmswell 45 All Out
Milden were playing their last home game this season at the Sportsfield and welcomed Elmswell on a sunny and warm afternoon. The wicket looked terrific again, much work in the winter and spring by Richard Harding and Jim Roger Brown has meant we are getting some belters. TK walked out to the middle with the Elmswell skipper and lost the toss, but Elmswell decided to field first.
Boris and TK opened the batting this week and picked up from the week before, playing some tidy shots and dispatching any bad balls to the boundary. Boris in particular, tucking into some errant bowling. After 10 overs, Milden stood at 58 and drinks were soon taken at 15. TK and Boris continued to plunder the bowling sending Milden past 100 and then 120 with some good boundary hitting and sharp running between the wickets. TK tried to repeat another six into the Watsons but missed and was sent back to the pavilion, bowled for 73.
Will Ward joined Boris and they continued to hit the bowling around with some good sharp running but Ward went to push on for what was looking like a big total and was caught for 10. Boris still hung around and he and Pat continued to pile on the runs before Pat was also well caught for 10. Alex Zahid was at the crease but soon had a new partner when Boris finally bowled for 83. Matt Archer made his debut with the bat but got a first ball LBW, back in the hutch with Joe Smith making his debut with the bat for Milden. In the mean-time, Zahid had set about the Elmswell bowlers. The assembled crowd did not know if they were going to get Box office or Bollywood, but Zahid delivered the goods with some massive hitting of sixes and fours to all parts of the ground, sticking one into the church yard, a few in Morleys fields and customary one into the Watsons which brought up his 50 and closed the Milden innings. Zahid 54 not out and Joe Smith 6 not out.
The players retired to the players retired to the pavilion where Greg Hayton had got the gingham table cloth out this week and laid out a terrific tea for all to consume. A big selection this week, Hayton too had decided to go for the roll methodology with ham, cheese and egg to boot. TK circled the egg sandwiches and plundered them as he had the Elmswell bowling. In addition, Greg just returning from his European holiday, dropped in a couple of freshly baked baguettes and delicious pate, DIY style. This was all accompanied by a huge range of sweet things which Zahid tried to try each and everyone, a delicious homemade cornflake cake and more crisps and chocolate delights. Terrific effort from Hayton 8 out 10 was the consensus from the players for the egg sandwiches.
TK donned the gloves and following his team talk, wound the Milden players into a frenzy. Hayton came steaming down the hill and Joe Smith up the slope. The fielders were buzzing and some really sharp fielding began to turn the screw on the Elmswell batsmen. It was not long before Hayton cleaned bowled the opening batsman and Joe Smith was soon too at the party clean bowling the other. Both bowlers bowled with pace and control, Hayton really giving the batsman something to think about. Hooping it about, Hayton soon had another wicket with an excellent LBW. Smith kept up with Hayton when a edge was snaffled by TK behind the stumps. Another soon followed when he clean bowled for his third.
With lots of bowling at his disposal, TK shuffled his bowlers around. Every and Archer took up the mantle and following a couple of losseners, Archer picked up a wicket clean bowling the Elmswell number 5. Alan Every swung the ball about but bowled the tenacious and dangerous Haines when a well flighted delivery bamboozled Haines swinging cutting of the seam to clip the top pf off stump to send the Mildeners into raptures, mobbing Every for a terrific wicket. Milden were on top and soon both Matty Archer and Alan picked up another wicket each to pretty much end the Elmswell innings.
Milden sent in their last batsmen, 8 year old George Moss, both bat and helmet bigger than him. James Pipe was now on and young Moss picked up a single with his third delivery. James Pipe then cleaned up the Elmswell wicket keeper with a well flighted and swinging delivery and TK did the rest with the stumping to end the Elmswell resistance. Milden created a guard of honour for young George Moss as he left the field, clapping him off as he went. Whilst the bowlers bowled really well today, the fielding was absolutely terrific, suffocating the Elmswell run chase. Pat Humphries set the bar, with Matt Archer and James Pipe doing also particularly well in during up the runs. Will Ward, the quiet man of the team, went about his business in the field without fuss as always, great effort.
A big thank you must also go to Tim Lucas,Mrs Every and Jane for helping to do all the washing and clearing up after tea, much appreciated.
Milden retired to the Edwardstone White Horse, where as always, Mick and June welcomed the Mildeners. Mick in his Milden polo shirt and June in her flowing summer outfit, dished up a selection of sausage sandwiches and chips. Ben Abbott was kept busy behind the bar as a few jugs were owed and we enjoyed the company of Elmswell who joined us for a beer.
A large amount of credit should go to Elmswell who really made a game of it and stuck to their tasks on a very warm day, also terrific seeing a young lad playing mens cricket. Really pleased also with the Milden team that played with flair, aggression and some style to win.
A couple of quick phone calls by Greg Hayton soon confirmed Mildens promotion as Cornard had lost heavily to Lavenham who still have their own title aspirations. No big wild celebrations, I think we are all focused on going for the title, however, we should recognise this achievement !
Next week, Milden play away at Great Cornard who will be bang up this local derby. Milden can take another big step forward towards the league title, support is always welcome.
UP THE MELDES !!!!
Hunts County Cricket League Division 5
Sunday 31st July 2016
Milden Cricket Club 253 for 6
Walsham le Willows 116 All Out
Milden welcomed Walsham le Willows to Church Lane on another sunny and warm Sunday afternoon. The pitch had been excellently prepared by Richard Harding and Jim Roger Brown and looked a belter. TK went out to the middle and surprisingly won the toss when Howard called heads and it fell tails, no hesitation in electing to bat.
Rich Harding was asked to open the innings with Boris and got off to a flyer, sending the Walsham quickies to all parts of the ground and some really intelligent running too. Rich Harding in particular took a liking to the Walsham quickie with some well-timed pull and hook shots. Boris too got in on the cat, cutting and pulling imperiously. The run rate was at 6 an over and after 10 overs, Milden were already at 62 without loss. However, Harding took on one too many shots and was dismissed by being caught for 36.
Tom Duffy, making only his second appearance for Milden strode in at number 3 and after a few rusty shots, carried on where Richard had left off and both he and Boris carried on the run rate. Boris eventually mistimed one and was well caught by veteran John Wright for 27. Will Ward came in and soon departed for 5, clean bowled by Rothon. Pat ‘I love Walsham’ Humphries came out to bat and did what Pat does best, got runs. He and Tom Duffy put down accelerator and started to push runs around the park. Tom eventually went for a well made 20 and Pat was joined by Zahid. After watching carefully for a few overs, Alex started to put the Walsham bolwers to the sword, carting sixes out of the ground and had spectators running to move their cars from the car park. Pat continued to cut, drive and pull beautifully and between them they moved Milden to 190 before Zahid went for one too many big shots and was very well caught on the boundary. With a high total in mind, TK went in at number 6 and he and Pat continued the onslaught, hitting sixes and fours to take the score to past 225. TK was caught on the boundary for 22 in the 37th over but there was still time for Tim Lucas to come in a together with Pat take the score past 250. Tim took the game to Walsham, one notable shot was a big six off his legs. Between Tim and Pat, they saw Milden to 253 for 6, Pat finishing 60 not out and Tim 14 not out.
Mrs Konopka’s turn this week to do tea, loaded on top of the gingham table cloth was a marvellous range of treats for all to consume. Mrs K went for the small rolls strategy, parting from traditional sandwiches but there was no disappointment to be had as she delivered excellent egg and cress sandwiches, with homemade coronation chicken, ham and mustard mayo,cheese and tomato and a cheeky pulled pork in Yorkshire puddings with a dollop of apple sauce. However, Mrs K was not finished there, serving up home made sausage rolls and quiches to boot !!! Knowing how much Alex Zahid likes a cake, she finished off with Extra chocolate, chocolate cake and Victoria sponge. An outstanding effort, 10 out of 10 from both sets of players and supporters. Well done Jane.
Following a quick photo shoot with Milden’s sponsor Chris Lindsey from the Lindsey Group, Milden took to the field and TK and Pat opened up the bowling, the batsmen played and missed at TK but Pat cleaned bowled the opener, hitting the top of off stump and then had the other caught very well by Tom Duffy at square leg. Pat continued to bowl well whilst TK got fed up of running in and asked James Pipe to bowl from the top end. James bowled really well tying down the Walsham batsmen and soon had the Walsham skipper in trouble, playing and missing before having him caught.
At the other end Mark St Ledger had replaced Pat Humphries (2 for 14) and after a couple of looseners, soon was into his rhythm and being very well rewarded with another wicket, again well taken at point. James picked up another wicket also and TK rotated the bowling once more, Pipe finishing with 2 for 27 off his 8 overs and Mark 1 for 14 off his 4, really well bowled.
New man Matt Archer bowled form the bottom end and Zahid from the top, soon Milden were well into the wickets as Matt Archer picked up 2 wickets in his second and fourth overs, bowling both Rothon and Daly. Zahid bowled with his usual pace and aggression and soon had J Gilbert caught and bowled. Milden continued to turn the screw and Matt picked up the final wicket of Ross when Pat took a simple catch at Mid off. Milden had wrapped up the inning sin the 32nd over bowling our visitors out for 116.
Another terrific win which was really set up by the excellent batting display in the first half of the game. Everyone contributed with the bat which was good to see and what was really good pleasing was the tempo of our batting and ambition to score big runs. The beans deservedly went to Pat 'can i play Walsham every week' Humphries for his excellent 60 not out and for picking up two wickets opening the bowling.
After the game both sets of players and supporters decamped to the Edwardstone White Horse where as always, were welcomed by June and Mick and a range of Yorkshire fayre as they were hosting a ‘Yorkshire Week’, not a whippet of flat cap in sight !!
Mick and June laid on chips, roast potatoes and sausages, but there was no gravy boat to be seen. Good chat with the opposition, we wish them well for the remainder of the season.
Lavenham beat Elmswell and Great Cornard sneaked past Twinstead, Cornard and Lavenham play each other next week and Milden host Elmswell. The calculators will be out to see if Milden are promoted but we can only take care of our own business and take one game at a time.
Whilst being promoted and winning the league has always been our aim this year, this is only part of what we are trying to achieve as a club, the continuation of a journey that was started in 2008, a journey to promote local cricket in the area in a friendly and welcoming environment. It was really pleasing to see lots of local people, come along to support us and check our club out, real mix of young and old.
Each time we come back to the pub in our smart polo shirts on a Sunday evening, everyone asks how we got on and people are starting to look us up, like our facebook page and follow our team. Winning is important, but we should be most proud of what we are achieving as a club and representing as Mildeners.
UP THE MELDES !!!!
Sunday 31st July 2016
Milden Cricket Club 253 for 6
Walsham le Willows 116 All Out
Milden welcomed Walsham le Willows to Church Lane on another sunny and warm Sunday afternoon. The pitch had been excellently prepared by Richard Harding and Jim Roger Brown and looked a belter. TK went out to the middle and surprisingly won the toss when Howard called heads and it fell tails, no hesitation in electing to bat.
Rich Harding was asked to open the innings with Boris and got off to a flyer, sending the Walsham quickies to all parts of the ground and some really intelligent running too. Rich Harding in particular took a liking to the Walsham quickie with some well-timed pull and hook shots. Boris too got in on the cat, cutting and pulling imperiously. The run rate was at 6 an over and after 10 overs, Milden were already at 62 without loss. However, Harding took on one too many shots and was dismissed by being caught for 36.
Tom Duffy, making only his second appearance for Milden strode in at number 3 and after a few rusty shots, carried on where Richard had left off and both he and Boris carried on the run rate. Boris eventually mistimed one and was well caught by veteran John Wright for 27. Will Ward came in and soon departed for 5, clean bowled by Rothon. Pat ‘I love Walsham’ Humphries came out to bat and did what Pat does best, got runs. He and Tom Duffy put down accelerator and started to push runs around the park. Tom eventually went for a well made 20 and Pat was joined by Zahid. After watching carefully for a few overs, Alex started to put the Walsham bolwers to the sword, carting sixes out of the ground and had spectators running to move their cars from the car park. Pat continued to cut, drive and pull beautifully and between them they moved Milden to 190 before Zahid went for one too many big shots and was very well caught on the boundary. With a high total in mind, TK went in at number 6 and he and Pat continued the onslaught, hitting sixes and fours to take the score to past 225. TK was caught on the boundary for 22 in the 37th over but there was still time for Tim Lucas to come in a together with Pat take the score past 250. Tim took the game to Walsham, one notable shot was a big six off his legs. Between Tim and Pat, they saw Milden to 253 for 6, Pat finishing 60 not out and Tim 14 not out.
Mrs Konopka’s turn this week to do tea, loaded on top of the gingham table cloth was a marvellous range of treats for all to consume. Mrs K went for the small rolls strategy, parting from traditional sandwiches but there was no disappointment to be had as she delivered excellent egg and cress sandwiches, with homemade coronation chicken, ham and mustard mayo,cheese and tomato and a cheeky pulled pork in Yorkshire puddings with a dollop of apple sauce. However, Mrs K was not finished there, serving up home made sausage rolls and quiches to boot !!! Knowing how much Alex Zahid likes a cake, she finished off with Extra chocolate, chocolate cake and Victoria sponge. An outstanding effort, 10 out of 10 from both sets of players and supporters. Well done Jane.
Following a quick photo shoot with Milden’s sponsor Chris Lindsey from the Lindsey Group, Milden took to the field and TK and Pat opened up the bowling, the batsmen played and missed at TK but Pat cleaned bowled the opener, hitting the top of off stump and then had the other caught very well by Tom Duffy at square leg. Pat continued to bowl well whilst TK got fed up of running in and asked James Pipe to bowl from the top end. James bowled really well tying down the Walsham batsmen and soon had the Walsham skipper in trouble, playing and missing before having him caught.
At the other end Mark St Ledger had replaced Pat Humphries (2 for 14) and after a couple of looseners, soon was into his rhythm and being very well rewarded with another wicket, again well taken at point. James picked up another wicket also and TK rotated the bowling once more, Pipe finishing with 2 for 27 off his 8 overs and Mark 1 for 14 off his 4, really well bowled.
New man Matt Archer bowled form the bottom end and Zahid from the top, soon Milden were well into the wickets as Matt Archer picked up 2 wickets in his second and fourth overs, bowling both Rothon and Daly. Zahid bowled with his usual pace and aggression and soon had J Gilbert caught and bowled. Milden continued to turn the screw and Matt picked up the final wicket of Ross when Pat took a simple catch at Mid off. Milden had wrapped up the inning sin the 32nd over bowling our visitors out for 116.
Another terrific win which was really set up by the excellent batting display in the first half of the game. Everyone contributed with the bat which was good to see and what was really good pleasing was the tempo of our batting and ambition to score big runs. The beans deservedly went to Pat 'can i play Walsham every week' Humphries for his excellent 60 not out and for picking up two wickets opening the bowling.
After the game both sets of players and supporters decamped to the Edwardstone White Horse where as always, were welcomed by June and Mick and a range of Yorkshire fayre as they were hosting a ‘Yorkshire Week’, not a whippet of flat cap in sight !!
Mick and June laid on chips, roast potatoes and sausages, but there was no gravy boat to be seen. Good chat with the opposition, we wish them well for the remainder of the season.
Lavenham beat Elmswell and Great Cornard sneaked past Twinstead, Cornard and Lavenham play each other next week and Milden host Elmswell. The calculators will be out to see if Milden are promoted but we can only take care of our own business and take one game at a time.
Whilst being promoted and winning the league has always been our aim this year, this is only part of what we are trying to achieve as a club, the continuation of a journey that was started in 2008, a journey to promote local cricket in the area in a friendly and welcoming environment. It was really pleasing to see lots of local people, come along to support us and check our club out, real mix of young and old.
Each time we come back to the pub in our smart polo shirts on a Sunday evening, everyone asks how we got on and people are starting to look us up, like our facebook page and follow our team. Winning is important, but we should be most proud of what we are achieving as a club and representing as Mildeners.
UP THE MELDES !!!!
Hunts County Cricket League Division 5
Sunday 24th July 2016
Tendring Park Cricket Club 137 for 7
Milden Cricket Club 138 for 4
The sports field was flushed with sunshine when Milden arrived to face Tendring Park in this league fixture. Jim Roger Brown, Allan Every and Richard Harding and produced a belter of a wicket, from all their efforts during the week.
TK welcomed the Tendring skipper and promptly lost the toss and Tendring unsurprisingly elected to bat on a warm and sunny day. TK and Alan Every opened the bowling and soon both were into their stride, producing some excellent and controlled bowling but unfortunately whilst beating the bat, unable to take any wickets. Alan bowled his best spell for the club with some really tight bowling. At the other end, TK pulled his groin so finished his 5th over and quickly turned to Zahid to carry on down the hill.
Tendring Park whilst not scoring quickly were stubborn in their resistance, nudging a few and accumulating a few boundaries as edges began to fly. Zahid bowled with aggression but less control, which sometimes makes him dangerous and after being warned for a high no ball, channelled his thoughts into removing the Tendring Park skipper by removing his off stump and showing him the way back to the pavilion.
Tendring Park continued to fight, and Leppard was introduced into the attack, coming in off his shorter run up due to a dodgy hammy. It took him a couple of overs before he hit his straps and soon was shacking down the Tendring innings. Zahid continued to fire down fury and was rewarded again by having Black trapped LBW. Young Hawley was beginning to accumulate runs as Tendring Park soon went past 60 then 70 runs and looked to be building a decent innings. James Harding had to retire from the field after slipping in the outfield whilst fielding and jarring his back, so Milden were down to 10.
However,Zahid and Leppard used all their experience to start to reign Tendring Park back in, runs flowed but wickets fell as Leppard picked up two wickets in successive overs and Zahid bowled the dangerous Englehart as well. Tendring Park kept the scoreboard moving through Hawley but Milden fought back once more, with some smart fielding and Richie Harding keeping excellently behind the stumps and keeping everyone on their toes. Zahid finished his spell (3 for 35) and TK brought himself back on to bowl 5 tidy overs and pick up a wicket. At the other end, Leppard finished and making his league debut, St Ledger came on and quickly slot into a rhythm, having Hawley (58 not out) dropped but soon clean bowling M Ward to finish with figures of 1 for 13. Tendring Park completed their allotted 40 over for 137.
Tea was taken and Zahid had put his hand up this week, well actually he had volunteered Mrs Zahid and his mother in law to do tea whilst he proudly showed off Alina to the team, she is a beauty. Mrs Zahid produced a magnificent spread as the table groaned under the weight of sandwiches, tuna and cucumber, cheese and mango chutney and of course, egg sandwiches, well seasoned and Mrs Zahid had gone for the multigrain bread method which produced a slight crunch, excellent 8.5 out of 10. The sandwiches were surrounded by quiches and sausage rolls, crisps a plenty and there was no repeat of Sudbury as there were more cakes than you can shake a stick at. Everyone tucked in, opposition were very complimentary, well done Natalie and Natalie’s mum!!
Milden went out to bat and Boris and Rich Harding opened up, playing carefully as only 3.5 runs per over were needed. Some tight bowling followed but Rich and Boris punished the bad balls and also ensured some smart running kept the scoreboard ticking over. After 10 overs, the score stood at 32.
Rich was first to get out when he did not quite commit to a cover drive and was very well caught for 13. Will Ward strode in and watched carefully before trying to punish a full toss but could not clear the line and was well caught on the boundary for 1. Tendring Park had their tails up but Boris and Pat took the sting out of the innings, playing some lovely shots but also giving the bowlers no chances. Pat and Boris took the score past 50, then 60 and continued to punish any loose bowling. They saw off the miserly Tendring Park skipper Woolston and the finish line was in sight. The partnership was broken when Boris was given LBW and Zahid strode to the crease with Milden 86 for 3. Both him and Pat started to push the score on but Pat missed a full toss and was given LBW as well. With the score on 107, TK walked out and he and Zahid pushed the ball around and some smart running soon got rid of any nerves. Zahid then decided enough was enough and finished the game with three lusty blows, onto the pavilion, into the car park and straight over the bowlers head, 18 off 3 balls, job done and another Milden win.
A fantastic performance from Milden, picking up where they left off in the second half of the game against Old Newton last week. Lots of great performances this week. Tim Lucas fielded really well and Alan Every looked at home opening the bowling, tight and tidy overs, unlucky not to get a wicket. Pat Humphries sharp in the field as always, diving around to save quite a few runs. Mark St Ledger picked up his first league wicket for the club and took a smart catch and was always giving out encouragement. Rich Harding was always geeing the team up and kept really well and opened solidly. James Harding unlucky with his injury as he too fielded well, fined for having no spikes which led to him jarring his back. Leppard and bowled well and ran through brick walls with his dodgy hammy and Zahid excelled with both bat and ball, becoming a real feature of the side. However, the beans this week go to Boris who provided a solid platform when opening for his 34, not spectacular but ensured that Milden did not panic, maintained momentum, not bad for someone who had his entire family watching, that is pressure !!
What impressed me the most is the comraderie both on and off the field, everyone playing and supporting each other, helping out at the ground before and after the game. We are one !!
Milden retired to the Edwardstone White Horse with the Tendering Park team where June and Mick laid on a terrific spread of Yorkshire puddings the size of small planets, roast potatoes and sausages which everyone tucked into. We are really grateful of their support as always. Terrific banter with the team was led by the Archbishop and it was great to see both James Pipe and Sumo coming along to support the team even though they had other commitments on Sunday.
Next week, Milden are at home to Walsham le Willows, with Lavenham playing Gt Cornard, a Milden win could see us secure promotion our first promotion since the club was reformed in 2008. Lets see if the Milden bandwagon can keep on rolling.
UP THE MELDES !!
Sunday 24th July 2016
Tendring Park Cricket Club 137 for 7
Milden Cricket Club 138 for 4
The sports field was flushed with sunshine when Milden arrived to face Tendring Park in this league fixture. Jim Roger Brown, Allan Every and Richard Harding and produced a belter of a wicket, from all their efforts during the week.
TK welcomed the Tendring skipper and promptly lost the toss and Tendring unsurprisingly elected to bat on a warm and sunny day. TK and Alan Every opened the bowling and soon both were into their stride, producing some excellent and controlled bowling but unfortunately whilst beating the bat, unable to take any wickets. Alan bowled his best spell for the club with some really tight bowling. At the other end, TK pulled his groin so finished his 5th over and quickly turned to Zahid to carry on down the hill.
Tendring Park whilst not scoring quickly were stubborn in their resistance, nudging a few and accumulating a few boundaries as edges began to fly. Zahid bowled with aggression but less control, which sometimes makes him dangerous and after being warned for a high no ball, channelled his thoughts into removing the Tendring Park skipper by removing his off stump and showing him the way back to the pavilion.
Tendring Park continued to fight, and Leppard was introduced into the attack, coming in off his shorter run up due to a dodgy hammy. It took him a couple of overs before he hit his straps and soon was shacking down the Tendring innings. Zahid continued to fire down fury and was rewarded again by having Black trapped LBW. Young Hawley was beginning to accumulate runs as Tendring Park soon went past 60 then 70 runs and looked to be building a decent innings. James Harding had to retire from the field after slipping in the outfield whilst fielding and jarring his back, so Milden were down to 10.
However,Zahid and Leppard used all their experience to start to reign Tendring Park back in, runs flowed but wickets fell as Leppard picked up two wickets in successive overs and Zahid bowled the dangerous Englehart as well. Tendring Park kept the scoreboard moving through Hawley but Milden fought back once more, with some smart fielding and Richie Harding keeping excellently behind the stumps and keeping everyone on their toes. Zahid finished his spell (3 for 35) and TK brought himself back on to bowl 5 tidy overs and pick up a wicket. At the other end, Leppard finished and making his league debut, St Ledger came on and quickly slot into a rhythm, having Hawley (58 not out) dropped but soon clean bowling M Ward to finish with figures of 1 for 13. Tendring Park completed their allotted 40 over for 137.
Tea was taken and Zahid had put his hand up this week, well actually he had volunteered Mrs Zahid and his mother in law to do tea whilst he proudly showed off Alina to the team, she is a beauty. Mrs Zahid produced a magnificent spread as the table groaned under the weight of sandwiches, tuna and cucumber, cheese and mango chutney and of course, egg sandwiches, well seasoned and Mrs Zahid had gone for the multigrain bread method which produced a slight crunch, excellent 8.5 out of 10. The sandwiches were surrounded by quiches and sausage rolls, crisps a plenty and there was no repeat of Sudbury as there were more cakes than you can shake a stick at. Everyone tucked in, opposition were very complimentary, well done Natalie and Natalie’s mum!!
Milden went out to bat and Boris and Rich Harding opened up, playing carefully as only 3.5 runs per over were needed. Some tight bowling followed but Rich and Boris punished the bad balls and also ensured some smart running kept the scoreboard ticking over. After 10 overs, the score stood at 32.
Rich was first to get out when he did not quite commit to a cover drive and was very well caught for 13. Will Ward strode in and watched carefully before trying to punish a full toss but could not clear the line and was well caught on the boundary for 1. Tendring Park had their tails up but Boris and Pat took the sting out of the innings, playing some lovely shots but also giving the bowlers no chances. Pat and Boris took the score past 50, then 60 and continued to punish any loose bowling. They saw off the miserly Tendring Park skipper Woolston and the finish line was in sight. The partnership was broken when Boris was given LBW and Zahid strode to the crease with Milden 86 for 3. Both him and Pat started to push the score on but Pat missed a full toss and was given LBW as well. With the score on 107, TK walked out and he and Zahid pushed the ball around and some smart running soon got rid of any nerves. Zahid then decided enough was enough and finished the game with three lusty blows, onto the pavilion, into the car park and straight over the bowlers head, 18 off 3 balls, job done and another Milden win.
A fantastic performance from Milden, picking up where they left off in the second half of the game against Old Newton last week. Lots of great performances this week. Tim Lucas fielded really well and Alan Every looked at home opening the bowling, tight and tidy overs, unlucky not to get a wicket. Pat Humphries sharp in the field as always, diving around to save quite a few runs. Mark St Ledger picked up his first league wicket for the club and took a smart catch and was always giving out encouragement. Rich Harding was always geeing the team up and kept really well and opened solidly. James Harding unlucky with his injury as he too fielded well, fined for having no spikes which led to him jarring his back. Leppard and bowled well and ran through brick walls with his dodgy hammy and Zahid excelled with both bat and ball, becoming a real feature of the side. However, the beans this week go to Boris who provided a solid platform when opening for his 34, not spectacular but ensured that Milden did not panic, maintained momentum, not bad for someone who had his entire family watching, that is pressure !!
What impressed me the most is the comraderie both on and off the field, everyone playing and supporting each other, helping out at the ground before and after the game. We are one !!
Milden retired to the Edwardstone White Horse with the Tendering Park team where June and Mick laid on a terrific spread of Yorkshire puddings the size of small planets, roast potatoes and sausages which everyone tucked into. We are really grateful of their support as always. Terrific banter with the team was led by the Archbishop and it was great to see both James Pipe and Sumo coming along to support the team even though they had other commitments on Sunday.
Next week, Milden are at home to Walsham le Willows, with Lavenham playing Gt Cornard, a Milden win could see us secure promotion our first promotion since the club was reformed in 2008. Lets see if the Milden bandwagon can keep on rolling.
UP THE MELDES !!
Hunts County Cricket League Division 5
Sunday 17th July 2016
Milden 156 All Out
Old Newton Cricket Club 63 All Out
Milden travelled to the other side of Stowmarket to play the return fixture against Old Newton. The weather was very warm and sunny and TK had no hesitation in electing to bat when he won the toss.
The wicket was hard and dry and the outfield quick, unfortunately, a below average batting performance was kicked off with TK playing a rash shot and being dismissed for 5 in the opening overs. Milden batsmen came and went with some really poor shot selections and generally poor cricket. Will Ward was dismissed, clean bowled for 6 and Boris was next to go when he was run out for 11 when not grounding his bat properly.
Pat Humphries helped steady the ship when he dug in but runs dried up a bit and when Nick Leppard was bowled for 5, milden were staring down the barrel of a heavy defeat with the scoreboard (that Zahid took a fancy too) showing 32 for 4. Zahid came in and scored some quick runs but played back to one that kept low and departed for 10, out LBW.
TK was having kittens as milden continued to struggle, luckily catches being dropped. After Lucas was bowled for 5, a score of 80 looked the best Milden could hope for. Rich Harding and Pat were at the crease, Harding was dropped on 2 runs which proved to be costly. Pat and Richard started to rebuild the innings and got the score up to 70 when Pat was well caught at square leg picking out the fielder who held the catch well. Alan Every continued the poor batting being dismissed for 4, Milden were up the creek….. Hayton strode to the crease and used all his experience to rebuild the innings with Rich Harding, 80, then 90 runs soon passed and the boys began to make Old Newton pay for some of those dropped catches. Both played some solid cricket but when the bad ball was bowled, dispatched it to the boundary, Hayton playing some lovely drives through the covers and Rich smashing back past the bowler.
Greg was eventually bowled for 15, really helping to rescue the innings, meanwhile Richard Harding had taken the game to Old Newton and stood in the 40’s when the game went into the final over. James Pipe picked up a couple of runs and Rich was finally out for 49, trying to push Milden on. Milden were all out for 156. A magnificent display from Rich and Greg, providing some form of competitive total following the dismal batting display that preceded them.
Tea was taken and a marvellous spread was provided by the Old Newton boys. Open egg sandwiches were the controversial choice this week but due to excellent seasoning, got the thumbs up from the boys. These were accompanied by a range of pork based products in the form of cocktail sausages, pork pies, sausage rolls and additional sandwiches and crisps. Well done Old Newton 8/10.
Milden went out to field and laid it on the line to the rest of the team, complacency had crept in but on a positive, Milden had fought back and did not want to give up their winning streak. He asked for passion and commitment and Milden responded.
Greg Hayton tore in down the slope and with real pace and venom, immediately put doubt in the minds on the Old Newton openers who were just fishing for the ball. Nick Leppard ran in up the slope and it was he who broke through first bowling Stevens for 2. Leppard struck again removing C Roberts, not before he had pulled his hamstring and tweaked when which Boris did well to take a short mid off. Hayton came to the party by clean bowling the old Newton Skipper, re arranging the furniture with aplomb. Hayton picked up another clean bowled wicket to finish with figures of 2 for 14, but his performance had set the tone. Nick Leppard 3 for 18, was replaced by Zahid and he had come to the party by bowling some full and fast deliveries, quickly removing the Old Newton middle order, Rich Harding taking a fast one that was gloved behind and the other two were clean bowled, 3 for 8.
James and Alan Every were left to mop up the tail and it was Pipe who snaffled two wickets to finish with two wickets for 5 runs and wrap up the Old Newton innings.
Let’s be clear, Milden got out of jail here, a poor batting performance, which could have been worse would of meant Milden losing their covated unbeaten run. However, on a real positive, Milden battled back like ‘cornered tigers’ to putting in both a bowling display that was accurate and aggressive, back up by some tidy fielding.
Difficult to decide who to give the beans to this week, Richard Harding with his excellent 49 and some very tidy keeping to some fast bowling, or Greg Hayton for his support in rebuilding the innings and his hostile and very fast spell. So the beans go to both, really terrific display of team work and commitment to help win the game for Milden.
Everyone retired to the bar to share a beer with the Old Newton boys who are a real credit to Division 5, they have some excellent youngsters coming through and never gave up and will be a force to be reckoned with in years to come.
Milden, in good spirits went back to the White Horse to share a few beers, selfies and conducted by the Archbishop of Banterbury, had a good laugh as well.
Next week we are at home to Tendring Park, another tough game on our journey to seal promotion, one thing I am certain of, we are a real team with guts.!!
UP THE MELDES !!
Sunday 17th July 2016
Milden 156 All Out
Old Newton Cricket Club 63 All Out
Milden travelled to the other side of Stowmarket to play the return fixture against Old Newton. The weather was very warm and sunny and TK had no hesitation in electing to bat when he won the toss.
The wicket was hard and dry and the outfield quick, unfortunately, a below average batting performance was kicked off with TK playing a rash shot and being dismissed for 5 in the opening overs. Milden batsmen came and went with some really poor shot selections and generally poor cricket. Will Ward was dismissed, clean bowled for 6 and Boris was next to go when he was run out for 11 when not grounding his bat properly.
Pat Humphries helped steady the ship when he dug in but runs dried up a bit and when Nick Leppard was bowled for 5, milden were staring down the barrel of a heavy defeat with the scoreboard (that Zahid took a fancy too) showing 32 for 4. Zahid came in and scored some quick runs but played back to one that kept low and departed for 10, out LBW.
TK was having kittens as milden continued to struggle, luckily catches being dropped. After Lucas was bowled for 5, a score of 80 looked the best Milden could hope for. Rich Harding and Pat were at the crease, Harding was dropped on 2 runs which proved to be costly. Pat and Richard started to rebuild the innings and got the score up to 70 when Pat was well caught at square leg picking out the fielder who held the catch well. Alan Every continued the poor batting being dismissed for 4, Milden were up the creek….. Hayton strode to the crease and used all his experience to rebuild the innings with Rich Harding, 80, then 90 runs soon passed and the boys began to make Old Newton pay for some of those dropped catches. Both played some solid cricket but when the bad ball was bowled, dispatched it to the boundary, Hayton playing some lovely drives through the covers and Rich smashing back past the bowler.
Greg was eventually bowled for 15, really helping to rescue the innings, meanwhile Richard Harding had taken the game to Old Newton and stood in the 40’s when the game went into the final over. James Pipe picked up a couple of runs and Rich was finally out for 49, trying to push Milden on. Milden were all out for 156. A magnificent display from Rich and Greg, providing some form of competitive total following the dismal batting display that preceded them.
Tea was taken and a marvellous spread was provided by the Old Newton boys. Open egg sandwiches were the controversial choice this week but due to excellent seasoning, got the thumbs up from the boys. These were accompanied by a range of pork based products in the form of cocktail sausages, pork pies, sausage rolls and additional sandwiches and crisps. Well done Old Newton 8/10.
Milden went out to field and laid it on the line to the rest of the team, complacency had crept in but on a positive, Milden had fought back and did not want to give up their winning streak. He asked for passion and commitment and Milden responded.
Greg Hayton tore in down the slope and with real pace and venom, immediately put doubt in the minds on the Old Newton openers who were just fishing for the ball. Nick Leppard ran in up the slope and it was he who broke through first bowling Stevens for 2. Leppard struck again removing C Roberts, not before he had pulled his hamstring and tweaked when which Boris did well to take a short mid off. Hayton came to the party by clean bowling the old Newton Skipper, re arranging the furniture with aplomb. Hayton picked up another clean bowled wicket to finish with figures of 2 for 14, but his performance had set the tone. Nick Leppard 3 for 18, was replaced by Zahid and he had come to the party by bowling some full and fast deliveries, quickly removing the Old Newton middle order, Rich Harding taking a fast one that was gloved behind and the other two were clean bowled, 3 for 8.
James and Alan Every were left to mop up the tail and it was Pipe who snaffled two wickets to finish with two wickets for 5 runs and wrap up the Old Newton innings.
Let’s be clear, Milden got out of jail here, a poor batting performance, which could have been worse would of meant Milden losing their covated unbeaten run. However, on a real positive, Milden battled back like ‘cornered tigers’ to putting in both a bowling display that was accurate and aggressive, back up by some tidy fielding.
Difficult to decide who to give the beans to this week, Richard Harding with his excellent 49 and some very tidy keeping to some fast bowling, or Greg Hayton for his support in rebuilding the innings and his hostile and very fast spell. So the beans go to both, really terrific display of team work and commitment to help win the game for Milden.
Everyone retired to the bar to share a beer with the Old Newton boys who are a real credit to Division 5, they have some excellent youngsters coming through and never gave up and will be a force to be reckoned with in years to come.
Milden, in good spirits went back to the White Horse to share a few beers, selfies and conducted by the Archbishop of Banterbury, had a good laugh as well.
Next week we are at home to Tendring Park, another tough game on our journey to seal promotion, one thing I am certain of, we are a real team with guts.!!
UP THE MELDES !!
Friendly Fixture
Sunday 10th July 2016
Sudbury Cricket Club 229 All out
Milden Cricket Club 144 All Out
Milden travelled to local neighbours Sudbury for a friendly fixture due to breaking the league programme. With a couple of players stepping down to either rest an injury or were unavailable, Milden still went with a good team with the intent to have good game of cricket.
TK lost the toss and unsurprisingly, Sudbury elected to bat on a used but still very good track. TK and Alan Every opened the bowling with the runs quickly accumulating for Sudbury on the fast outfield. TK however had O’Brien dropped twice behind the stumps, with both an edge and glove behind but both tough chances. A big score looked on the cards with Sudbury racing at 10 an over before TK got the break through and had the opener caught by Zahid, taking the sharp chance smartly in the slips.
TK rotated the bowling and Zahid stepped up to remove the overseas professional second ball LBW to have Milden clawing their way back into the game. James Harding bowled form the other end and in tandem they tried to restrict the Sudbury batsman. However, on a good track, O’Brien continued to cash in, not before he flicked one behind on the leg side and didn’t walk, or the umpire give the catch, disappointing.
However, Milden stuck to their tasks and then Zahid really came to the party, clean bowling the middle order in three consecutive balls for a hat trick and we believe the first that has been achieved by a Milden cricketer in recent history.
Sudbury were teetering with O’Brien still in but the youngsters that came in slowing the run rate. Mark St Ledger, making his debut for the club, had replaced Zahid and been bowling some tidy overs with the odd loose ball which was punished. However, it was St Ledger that took the valuable scalp of O’Brien when one too many big shots was fantastically caught on the boundary by Pat Humphries with a sliding and diving catch.
TK decided to keep giving everyone one a bowl and Sudbury eventually got to 229, but Alan Every picked up his first wicket for the club which was well taken by Alex Zahid in the slips. James Pipe and Harding both bowled well with Harding taking a good wicket also. A couple of sharp run outs from Humphries and St ledger brought the innings to a close and Milden were satisfied with some great fielding, much improved from previous weeks. But Zahid’s hat trick was the real highlight of the innings together with Humphries terrific catch.
Tea was taken, 3 out of 10.
Milden kicked off their innings with Roffey and Cunningham opening up, pushing the ball around before Alex was adjudged to have nicked one down the leg side. TK went in and he and Roffey began to up the tempo, Roffey mistimed one and a great diving catch was taken in the covers to send him back to the pavilion. TK soon followed as poor foot movement meant he knicked one behind and it was Will Ward and Pat that started to rebuild the innings. Sudbury bowled well but frustration got the better of both batsmen as first Humphries was caught behind then Will Ward skied one.
Rich Harding and Alex Zahid found themselves at the crease and between them rebuilt the inning sto a position where Milden were back in the game. Richard really dug in and Zahid was watchful. However, soon both batsman started to push the accelerator with some great running between the wickets and good shots for boundaries. Sudbury introduced their quicker bowlers and Rich Harding tried to continue his expansive shot making but mistimed one to be out for 38. Zahid continued to punish the poor bowling with a terrific six and four but was eventually caught behind for a good 52.
Milden expected Sudbury to extend the courtesy of ‘making a game of it’ but this didn’t happen, the Milden tail stood up really well and bravely to some quick and hostile bowling, Mark St Ledger rolled back the years with some watchful batting and James pipe came up with the quote of the day with the ball whizzing around his head with the line ‘I am just getting my eye in !!’
Milden were eventually bowled out for 144.
There were a number of great performances this week but for his hat trick and 52 runs, beans go to Alex Zahid, his performance improvement plan is working !!!!!
Big thanks to Nick Leppard and Andrew Simmons for coming to support the boys, just shows how we have grown into a tight unit as a club.
A quick pint with the opposition and a few Mildeners went back to the White Horse where Mick and June did their usual fabulous best by laying on warm Hog Roast leftovers and hot roast potato’s, absolute legends.
Whilst this was Milden’s first loss, we went with the intention to have a game and use it as a game to practice and give everyone a game. Some great overs from James Harding, James Pipe, mark St Ledger and Alan Every. We fielded really well on a batsman’s track and lightning outfield. Pat took a fantastic catch in the deep and there some terrific run outs, Mark St Ledger with a great direct hit and some all-round terrific effort and much improved performance in the field.
Next week Milden travel away to Old Newton hoping to carry on our unbeaten form in the league with the run in for the season in sight. Please support our club in any way that you can.
UP THE MELDES !!
Sunday 10th July 2016
Sudbury Cricket Club 229 All out
Milden Cricket Club 144 All Out
Milden travelled to local neighbours Sudbury for a friendly fixture due to breaking the league programme. With a couple of players stepping down to either rest an injury or were unavailable, Milden still went with a good team with the intent to have good game of cricket.
TK lost the toss and unsurprisingly, Sudbury elected to bat on a used but still very good track. TK and Alan Every opened the bowling with the runs quickly accumulating for Sudbury on the fast outfield. TK however had O’Brien dropped twice behind the stumps, with both an edge and glove behind but both tough chances. A big score looked on the cards with Sudbury racing at 10 an over before TK got the break through and had the opener caught by Zahid, taking the sharp chance smartly in the slips.
TK rotated the bowling and Zahid stepped up to remove the overseas professional second ball LBW to have Milden clawing their way back into the game. James Harding bowled form the other end and in tandem they tried to restrict the Sudbury batsman. However, on a good track, O’Brien continued to cash in, not before he flicked one behind on the leg side and didn’t walk, or the umpire give the catch, disappointing.
However, Milden stuck to their tasks and then Zahid really came to the party, clean bowling the middle order in three consecutive balls for a hat trick and we believe the first that has been achieved by a Milden cricketer in recent history.
Sudbury were teetering with O’Brien still in but the youngsters that came in slowing the run rate. Mark St Ledger, making his debut for the club, had replaced Zahid and been bowling some tidy overs with the odd loose ball which was punished. However, it was St Ledger that took the valuable scalp of O’Brien when one too many big shots was fantastically caught on the boundary by Pat Humphries with a sliding and diving catch.
TK decided to keep giving everyone one a bowl and Sudbury eventually got to 229, but Alan Every picked up his first wicket for the club which was well taken by Alex Zahid in the slips. James Pipe and Harding both bowled well with Harding taking a good wicket also. A couple of sharp run outs from Humphries and St ledger brought the innings to a close and Milden were satisfied with some great fielding, much improved from previous weeks. But Zahid’s hat trick was the real highlight of the innings together with Humphries terrific catch.
Tea was taken, 3 out of 10.
Milden kicked off their innings with Roffey and Cunningham opening up, pushing the ball around before Alex was adjudged to have nicked one down the leg side. TK went in and he and Roffey began to up the tempo, Roffey mistimed one and a great diving catch was taken in the covers to send him back to the pavilion. TK soon followed as poor foot movement meant he knicked one behind and it was Will Ward and Pat that started to rebuild the innings. Sudbury bowled well but frustration got the better of both batsmen as first Humphries was caught behind then Will Ward skied one.
Rich Harding and Alex Zahid found themselves at the crease and between them rebuilt the inning sto a position where Milden were back in the game. Richard really dug in and Zahid was watchful. However, soon both batsman started to push the accelerator with some great running between the wickets and good shots for boundaries. Sudbury introduced their quicker bowlers and Rich Harding tried to continue his expansive shot making but mistimed one to be out for 38. Zahid continued to punish the poor bowling with a terrific six and four but was eventually caught behind for a good 52.
Milden expected Sudbury to extend the courtesy of ‘making a game of it’ but this didn’t happen, the Milden tail stood up really well and bravely to some quick and hostile bowling, Mark St Ledger rolled back the years with some watchful batting and James pipe came up with the quote of the day with the ball whizzing around his head with the line ‘I am just getting my eye in !!’
Milden were eventually bowled out for 144.
There were a number of great performances this week but for his hat trick and 52 runs, beans go to Alex Zahid, his performance improvement plan is working !!!!!
Big thanks to Nick Leppard and Andrew Simmons for coming to support the boys, just shows how we have grown into a tight unit as a club.
A quick pint with the opposition and a few Mildeners went back to the White Horse where Mick and June did their usual fabulous best by laying on warm Hog Roast leftovers and hot roast potato’s, absolute legends.
Whilst this was Milden’s first loss, we went with the intention to have a game and use it as a game to practice and give everyone a game. Some great overs from James Harding, James Pipe, mark St Ledger and Alan Every. We fielded really well on a batsman’s track and lightning outfield. Pat took a fantastic catch in the deep and there some terrific run outs, Mark St Ledger with a great direct hit and some all-round terrific effort and much improved performance in the field.
Next week Milden travel away to Old Newton hoping to carry on our unbeaten form in the league with the run in for the season in sight. Please support our club in any way that you can.
UP THE MELDES !!
Hunts County Cricket League Division 5
Sunday 3rd July 2016
Milden Cricket Club 182 for 5
Twinstead Cricket Club 114 All Out
Milden welcomed Twinstead to the Sports Field on a beautiful summer’s day, ideal for cricket. Richard Harding and Jim Roger Brown had worked wonders with the wicket in light of all the rain that had fallen over the last few weeks. Twinstead turned up with a large contingent of support to watch TK lose the toss and Milden being asked to bat.
Milden opened with Boris and Martin and both began to tick runs over before Boris ran one too sharply for Martin and ran him out for 3. Batting was difficult with many balls keeping low but Boris batted well and started to play some nice shots with TK now at the crease. Both batsman worked the ball around with TK leaning into a couple of cover drives for 4 to get the scoreboard ticking over. However, TK soon departed for 18 when playing on and Humphries joined Boris but was adjudged LBW for 7, Harding followed even more quickly for going for 0, again, LBW being his downfall. The Milden ship really rocked when Sumo was caught for 0, Boris was wondering how many partners he would have left?
Milden continued to tick the scoreboard over with Boris and now Zahid playing some sensible cricket, nudging the ball around to take Milden from 75 for 6 , past the 100 mark. Then the fireworks began !! Boris farmed the strike to big Alex as overs began to tick down and the big man started to tuck into some average bowling that previously seemed to bamboozle the Milden batsmen. Playing sensibly to good balls and punishing the bad ones, Zahid accelerated the score quickly. Some magnificent sixes were hit a long way, into the Watsons, the surrounding fields, car park and Church Yard !!!! Twinstead had no answer to some devastating cricket and brilliant running between Boris and Zahid and Milden finished on 182 for 5, after 40 overs and 4 lost balls !!
Tea this week was provided by Tim Lucas, an excellent spread was delivered and Tim was gunning for recognition of best egg sandwich. These were joined by a range of pizzas and cakes, pies and sausage rolls, slurped down with lashings of tea that the opposition and their supporters as did everyone, greatly appreciated. Tim’s egg sandwich approach was not controversial, using the roughly chopped egg methodology but bringing home the bacon with a well-seasoned sandwich and cress to boot. Well done Tim, the team agreed that 8.5 out of 10 was the score.
TK rallied the troops with his usual Charlotte Church pep talk, concentration, energy and a bit of guile were needed as no one will roll over for us and we knew Twinstead would fight hard.
Greg bowled with customary pace and accuracy with the Twinstead openers hitting some streaky shots, Nick opened with a few wide ones which were dispatched but soon both were into a steady rhythm, Greg particularly miserly with only 3 runs off his first 4 overs. However, Leppard struck first with a catch being snaffled by TK at mid off with the trap set earlier. The feat was repeated again when TK again snaffled a catch at mid off the very next over.
TK replaced Greg Hayton and put the brakes on Twinsteads innings with some tight bowling and Zahid had replaced Hayton and bowled with his usual fire and brimstone. In his second over he removed skipper Ward’s middle stump and gave him the send-off to boot. In his fourth over he finally got the opening bat Easter LBW and Twinstead were on the ropes. However, Twinstead were dogged and dug in and Milden struggled to pick up any more wickets. TK shuffled the pack and the energy raised again in the field with Tim Lucas turning his arm, he went for a few runs but importantly picked up the wicket of A Ward, catch taken well by Boris. Milden continued to put on the pressure with Birthday Boy and ‘Magic Man’ James Pipe bowling his best spell his season and crucially slowing down the run chase and taking the wicket of Haws, cleaning up his stumps 1 for 17 off his 5 overs.
TK brought back Leppard who was coming in off his short run due to a dodgy hamstring but it made no difference as he bowled with accuracy and picked up three more good wickets (LBW and 2 clean bowled) to earn himself his first ‘Michelle’ finishing with 5-26 off his allotted 10 overs.
Greg was brought back on to take the final wickets and after been smacked over his head for 4 runs by the number 11 with his first ball, threw down fury at the stumps to quickly splay them and wrap up the innings of Twinstead.
A massive win for Milden this week against an accomplished and determined side in Twinstead, there league position masks the quality that they have. They were a great team to play against in a competitive and sporting manner. Great bunch of lads. Everyone retired after the game to the Edwardstone White Horse to talk about the match and other cricketing stuff. Mick and June covered themselves in glory by bring out chips and curry which was polished off by both teams, well done them.
Milden then went onwards to the Melford Valley restaurant that had been excellently organised by Greg Hayton and all tucked into everything from Korma’s to Vindaloo’s and everything in between, washed down with a few Kingfishers! Really well looked after by the guys and girls there and they didn’t mind the banter and Alex Zahid telling them how far his sixes went. Well done to Greg.
We have no league game next week, but do have a friendly away at Sudbury which is always a great ground to play at.
So we continue to dream and the dream is still on !!
UP THE MELDES !!!!!
Sunday 3rd July 2016
Milden Cricket Club 182 for 5
Twinstead Cricket Club 114 All Out
Milden welcomed Twinstead to the Sports Field on a beautiful summer’s day, ideal for cricket. Richard Harding and Jim Roger Brown had worked wonders with the wicket in light of all the rain that had fallen over the last few weeks. Twinstead turned up with a large contingent of support to watch TK lose the toss and Milden being asked to bat.
Milden opened with Boris and Martin and both began to tick runs over before Boris ran one too sharply for Martin and ran him out for 3. Batting was difficult with many balls keeping low but Boris batted well and started to play some nice shots with TK now at the crease. Both batsman worked the ball around with TK leaning into a couple of cover drives for 4 to get the scoreboard ticking over. However, TK soon departed for 18 when playing on and Humphries joined Boris but was adjudged LBW for 7, Harding followed even more quickly for going for 0, again, LBW being his downfall. The Milden ship really rocked when Sumo was caught for 0, Boris was wondering how many partners he would have left?
Milden continued to tick the scoreboard over with Boris and now Zahid playing some sensible cricket, nudging the ball around to take Milden from 75 for 6 , past the 100 mark. Then the fireworks began !! Boris farmed the strike to big Alex as overs began to tick down and the big man started to tuck into some average bowling that previously seemed to bamboozle the Milden batsmen. Playing sensibly to good balls and punishing the bad ones, Zahid accelerated the score quickly. Some magnificent sixes were hit a long way, into the Watsons, the surrounding fields, car park and Church Yard !!!! Twinstead had no answer to some devastating cricket and brilliant running between Boris and Zahid and Milden finished on 182 for 5, after 40 overs and 4 lost balls !!
Tea this week was provided by Tim Lucas, an excellent spread was delivered and Tim was gunning for recognition of best egg sandwich. These were joined by a range of pizzas and cakes, pies and sausage rolls, slurped down with lashings of tea that the opposition and their supporters as did everyone, greatly appreciated. Tim’s egg sandwich approach was not controversial, using the roughly chopped egg methodology but bringing home the bacon with a well-seasoned sandwich and cress to boot. Well done Tim, the team agreed that 8.5 out of 10 was the score.
TK rallied the troops with his usual Charlotte Church pep talk, concentration, energy and a bit of guile were needed as no one will roll over for us and we knew Twinstead would fight hard.
Greg bowled with customary pace and accuracy with the Twinstead openers hitting some streaky shots, Nick opened with a few wide ones which were dispatched but soon both were into a steady rhythm, Greg particularly miserly with only 3 runs off his first 4 overs. However, Leppard struck first with a catch being snaffled by TK at mid off with the trap set earlier. The feat was repeated again when TK again snaffled a catch at mid off the very next over.
TK replaced Greg Hayton and put the brakes on Twinsteads innings with some tight bowling and Zahid had replaced Hayton and bowled with his usual fire and brimstone. In his second over he removed skipper Ward’s middle stump and gave him the send-off to boot. In his fourth over he finally got the opening bat Easter LBW and Twinstead were on the ropes. However, Twinstead were dogged and dug in and Milden struggled to pick up any more wickets. TK shuffled the pack and the energy raised again in the field with Tim Lucas turning his arm, he went for a few runs but importantly picked up the wicket of A Ward, catch taken well by Boris. Milden continued to put on the pressure with Birthday Boy and ‘Magic Man’ James Pipe bowling his best spell his season and crucially slowing down the run chase and taking the wicket of Haws, cleaning up his stumps 1 for 17 off his 5 overs.
TK brought back Leppard who was coming in off his short run due to a dodgy hamstring but it made no difference as he bowled with accuracy and picked up three more good wickets (LBW and 2 clean bowled) to earn himself his first ‘Michelle’ finishing with 5-26 off his allotted 10 overs.
Greg was brought back on to take the final wickets and after been smacked over his head for 4 runs by the number 11 with his first ball, threw down fury at the stumps to quickly splay them and wrap up the innings of Twinstead.
A massive win for Milden this week against an accomplished and determined side in Twinstead, there league position masks the quality that they have. They were a great team to play against in a competitive and sporting manner. Great bunch of lads. Everyone retired after the game to the Edwardstone White Horse to talk about the match and other cricketing stuff. Mick and June covered themselves in glory by bring out chips and curry which was polished off by both teams, well done them.
Milden then went onwards to the Melford Valley restaurant that had been excellently organised by Greg Hayton and all tucked into everything from Korma’s to Vindaloo’s and everything in between, washed down with a few Kingfishers! Really well looked after by the guys and girls there and they didn’t mind the banter and Alex Zahid telling them how far his sixes went. Well done to Greg.
We have no league game next week, but do have a friendly away at Sudbury which is always a great ground to play at.
So we continue to dream and the dream is still on !!
UP THE MELDES !!!!!
Hunts County Cricket League Division 5
Sunday 19th June 2016
Milden Cricket Club 120 for 5
Great Cornard Cricket Club 118 for 8
It had been a pretty wet week but due to the magnificent efforts of Richard and James Harding, ably supported by Jim Roger Brown, the chaps produced a terrific wicket for our game against Great Cornard who were sitting 3rd in the league.
Following last week’s terrific win at Elmswell, Milden were keen to keep the momentum going against our near neighbours and sometimes bogey team.
TK had struggled for 11 eleven players this week due to it being fathers day and some people on holidays so a call out on facebook had been answered by Joe Smith making is debut. TK lost the toss and the ‘Nard decided to make use of the wicket first.
Nick Leppard and Joe Smith opened the bowling, bowling some tight lines and were unlucky not to get wickets sooner than they did. Nick bowled with usual swing and control and Smithy offered a bit more pace and aggression. However, The ‘Nard openers accumulated runs before Nick removed the opener with a wonderfully disguised looping ball that clean bowled him for 15. Smith beat the bat and shuffled the field before he too took a wicket when the other opener drove a wide one but did so straight at TK at short cover who snaffled a sharp chance.
Milden contained the batting and TK shuffled the bowlers with himself and Zahid coming into the attack. Zahid bowled with pace but was very unlucky not to pick up wickets as he beat the bat numerous times. Tk after a tight first over quickly ran through the middle order, picking up two wickets cleaned bowled and Boris taking a terrific catch behind the stumps to make it 3.
TK rotated the bowling again and James Harding and James Pipe into the attack. Both bowled really well but Milden fell short in the field, putting down numerous catches, both bowlers were unlucky not to pick up wickets. However, from one such mix up came another as Harding failed to hold onto a difficult return catch, but Roffey was alert to pick up the ball and fire it at Boris who comfortably ran out the Cornard batsman.
Milden continued to try and finish off Cornard but they dug in and lady batsman Jess frustrated the Milden bowling both with her brave batting and sharp tongue. Another run out was had with some smart fielding but Milden were unable to get all the ‘Nard batsman out and they finished for 118 in their allotted 40 overs.
Whilst Milden were frustrated by their poor fielding in the second half of the innings, restricting the belligerent ‘Nard for 118 was still a terrific effort.
James Pipe had volunteered Mrs Pipe to do the tea this week and the players were not to be disappointed. In pride of place on the table were some magnificent egg sandwiches, lovingly made and quickly devoured by all. They were joined by cream cheese and salmon, tuna and cheese and pickle. Some home made quiches and sausage rolls surrounded the sandwiches and as if to make up for some of the lesser teas we have had in the last couple of weeks, BBQ chicken drumsticks. Home made cakes and scones with cream and jam just demonstrated that Mrs Pipe was setting down a marker for best cricket tea this year. Egg Sandwich score 8.5 out of 10. Well done Mrs P.
Small totals are always difficult to chase, but to be fair, Milden timed this one well. Boris and Martin opened the innings and carefully negotiated the first ten overs before Boris was adjudged LBW for 3 after one kept low. Martin kept scoreboard ticking over when joined by Will Ward. Ward showed some real maturity with his batting, carefully watching the bowling and putting anything away for 4 when short or wide. Milden started to accumulate runs with Will taking the lead and Martin supporting both with bat and experienced words.
Martin was eventually out for 17 caught at point and Pat Humphries joined Will and they began to up the run rate which was always in check, some great running between the wickets. Will Ward really tucked into the bowling with some fine pulls and cuts but one too many saw him depart for 47. A great and very important knock for Milden.
Alex Zahid strode to the crease and coupled with some careful batting and lusty blows, got Milden to within sight of the total. Pat continued to bat with intelligence and grit with Zahid doing the same. Some lusty blows from Zahid were had to calm the nerves as overs were beginning to dwindle but the run rate was always in check. Zahid eventually was caught for a well worked 27, Tk came in and was dismissed 3rd ball for 2 runs and it was left to Pat and Tim Lucas to see the innings out with Pat smearing the winning runs over covers for 4 with his customary favourite shot.
A terrific win for Milden, confident and with some class. Six wins out of six consolidates their position at the top of division 5.
Milden were joined by Great Cornard after the game at the White Horse. They are always competitive but a great bunch to share a few beers with. Big thank you to Mick and June for making us feel so welcome and also providing big bowls of chips and plates of pizzas which were demolished by all, Mick even wore his Milden polo shirt so no fine for him !!!
I was asked by a few people after the game why we are doing so well his season. Really simple question to answer, it’s down to all the players, supporters and friends of Milden pitching in to support our club. Everyone wants to play, buys into what we are trying to do and enjoys their time when we are together. We are a small club but a proud one, we play competitively and in the right spirit and that has been acknowledged by a few teams this year.
Another big game next week, a derby against our local rivals Lavenham, it will be a fiercely competitive fixture, so please make yourselves available and hopefully we can celebrate another win next week.
UP THE MELDES !!!!!
Sunday 19th June 2016
Milden Cricket Club 120 for 5
Great Cornard Cricket Club 118 for 8
It had been a pretty wet week but due to the magnificent efforts of Richard and James Harding, ably supported by Jim Roger Brown, the chaps produced a terrific wicket for our game against Great Cornard who were sitting 3rd in the league.
Following last week’s terrific win at Elmswell, Milden were keen to keep the momentum going against our near neighbours and sometimes bogey team.
TK had struggled for 11 eleven players this week due to it being fathers day and some people on holidays so a call out on facebook had been answered by Joe Smith making is debut. TK lost the toss and the ‘Nard decided to make use of the wicket first.
Nick Leppard and Joe Smith opened the bowling, bowling some tight lines and were unlucky not to get wickets sooner than they did. Nick bowled with usual swing and control and Smithy offered a bit more pace and aggression. However, The ‘Nard openers accumulated runs before Nick removed the opener with a wonderfully disguised looping ball that clean bowled him for 15. Smith beat the bat and shuffled the field before he too took a wicket when the other opener drove a wide one but did so straight at TK at short cover who snaffled a sharp chance.
Milden contained the batting and TK shuffled the bowlers with himself and Zahid coming into the attack. Zahid bowled with pace but was very unlucky not to pick up wickets as he beat the bat numerous times. Tk after a tight first over quickly ran through the middle order, picking up two wickets cleaned bowled and Boris taking a terrific catch behind the stumps to make it 3.
TK rotated the bowling again and James Harding and James Pipe into the attack. Both bowled really well but Milden fell short in the field, putting down numerous catches, both bowlers were unlucky not to pick up wickets. However, from one such mix up came another as Harding failed to hold onto a difficult return catch, but Roffey was alert to pick up the ball and fire it at Boris who comfortably ran out the Cornard batsman.
Milden continued to try and finish off Cornard but they dug in and lady batsman Jess frustrated the Milden bowling both with her brave batting and sharp tongue. Another run out was had with some smart fielding but Milden were unable to get all the ‘Nard batsman out and they finished for 118 in their allotted 40 overs.
Whilst Milden were frustrated by their poor fielding in the second half of the innings, restricting the belligerent ‘Nard for 118 was still a terrific effort.
James Pipe had volunteered Mrs Pipe to do the tea this week and the players were not to be disappointed. In pride of place on the table were some magnificent egg sandwiches, lovingly made and quickly devoured by all. They were joined by cream cheese and salmon, tuna and cheese and pickle. Some home made quiches and sausage rolls surrounded the sandwiches and as if to make up for some of the lesser teas we have had in the last couple of weeks, BBQ chicken drumsticks. Home made cakes and scones with cream and jam just demonstrated that Mrs Pipe was setting down a marker for best cricket tea this year. Egg Sandwich score 8.5 out of 10. Well done Mrs P.
Small totals are always difficult to chase, but to be fair, Milden timed this one well. Boris and Martin opened the innings and carefully negotiated the first ten overs before Boris was adjudged LBW for 3 after one kept low. Martin kept scoreboard ticking over when joined by Will Ward. Ward showed some real maturity with his batting, carefully watching the bowling and putting anything away for 4 when short or wide. Milden started to accumulate runs with Will taking the lead and Martin supporting both with bat and experienced words.
Martin was eventually out for 17 caught at point and Pat Humphries joined Will and they began to up the run rate which was always in check, some great running between the wickets. Will Ward really tucked into the bowling with some fine pulls and cuts but one too many saw him depart for 47. A great and very important knock for Milden.
Alex Zahid strode to the crease and coupled with some careful batting and lusty blows, got Milden to within sight of the total. Pat continued to bat with intelligence and grit with Zahid doing the same. Some lusty blows from Zahid were had to calm the nerves as overs were beginning to dwindle but the run rate was always in check. Zahid eventually was caught for a well worked 27, Tk came in and was dismissed 3rd ball for 2 runs and it was left to Pat and Tim Lucas to see the innings out with Pat smearing the winning runs over covers for 4 with his customary favourite shot.
A terrific win for Milden, confident and with some class. Six wins out of six consolidates their position at the top of division 5.
Milden were joined by Great Cornard after the game at the White Horse. They are always competitive but a great bunch to share a few beers with. Big thank you to Mick and June for making us feel so welcome and also providing big bowls of chips and plates of pizzas which were demolished by all, Mick even wore his Milden polo shirt so no fine for him !!!
I was asked by a few people after the game why we are doing so well his season. Really simple question to answer, it’s down to all the players, supporters and friends of Milden pitching in to support our club. Everyone wants to play, buys into what we are trying to do and enjoys their time when we are together. We are a small club but a proud one, we play competitively and in the right spirit and that has been acknowledged by a few teams this year.
Another big game next week, a derby against our local rivals Lavenham, it will be a fiercely competitive fixture, so please make yourselves available and hopefully we can celebrate another win next week.
UP THE MELDES !!!!!
Sunday 12th June 2016
Hunts County Cricket League Division 5
Milden Cricket Club 144 for 7
Elmswell Cricket Club 98 All Out
Milden travelled away again, this time to Elmswell to face a team recently relegated from Division 4. The weather was humid and showery and we were not sure if we would be able to get a game on, let alone finish one. Milden were coming into the fixture off the back of four straight victories and full of confidence.
TK lost the toss and Milden were asked to bat. The wicket looked good but was very wet from the downpours on Saturday and the light drizzle that had started as Milden went out to bat. Large credit must go to Elmswell for getting the game on and wanting to get a game of cricket in.
Boris and Martin opened the innings and steadily accumulated runs on a difficult batting surface and after 10 overs Milden sat at 32. Boris was the first to depart being bowled for 14. TK came in at 3 and was tied down by the slow bowling, letting frustration get to him and a poor shot later was caught for 10. Martin continued to play some good shots and was joined by Will Ward who picked up from last week with some terrific boundary hitting. Martin continued to play some fine shots before he too was bowled by one that turned a mile for 35. Big Alex Zahid went in and wafted at a few, Will supporting him until Will was caught for 18.
Nick Leppard joined Alex and had the best view in the house as Alex started to smash the Elmswell bowling about with three massive sixes to provide some much need impetus into the innings. Leppard too played some fine shots before he was bowled for 11. Tim joined Alex and watched as he continued to biff the ball around the ground but Alex was then stumped for 30 trying to heave one too many. Debutant Tom Last strode to the crease but was back in the hutch after being bowled with the second delivery for 0.
Milden did not think they had enough runs and some intelligent batting and superb running from James Harding and Tim Lucas ensured that Milden ended with a competitive ish total, Tim finished on 6 not out and James 3 not out.
Tea was taken and a great spread was laid on, chocolate fingers and cake were surrounded by pate on French stick, Tuna and sweetcorn, cheese and cucumber and cream cheese and tomato sandwiches. TK went down the line, walked back up, had the egg sandwiches been covered by the tune, were they under the table, had they been left in the kitchen……. He sulked off and consoled himself with some cheese and onion crisps.
With tea finished, TK decided to don the gloves and pads and keep wicket. Using England’s draw on Saturday as inspiration and an example of how not to see a game out, a few inspirational words were given, the team seemed more together this week and bang up for the field.
Greg Hayton opened the bowling and with a wet and slow wicket began to provide a bowling masterclass. Nick Leppard came in from the other end and quickly they set about the Elmswell openers. Greg knocked over the stumps of Linnet with a fast straight one and they tied down the batting. Leppard then contributed to the champagne moment when a swinging delivery caught the thick edge and Tim Lucas took a stunning forward diving catch, inches about the ground one handed. Mobbed by his team mates, really provided a lift to his team mates ( I heard there building a statue in Elmswell for him). Elmswell settled in and King and the dangerous Haynes rebuilt the Elmswell innings and Milden could not break through again, but Hayton pinned back the batsman and runs began to dry up.
TK decided to introduce Tom Last into the attack, the young 14 year old, fearless into the attack bowled a dot ball first up, second delivery a snorter of a seamer, third, nicked behind and TK took a diving catch to snaffle, Last with his first wicket for Milden Cricket Club, congratulations.
This seemed to provide again an injection of energy into the Milden team and Greg Hayton ran through the middle order with some fiery bowling knocking over Haynes and Moss to rip the heart out of the middle order and finish 3 wickets for 12 0ff his 10. Quality !
Alex Zahid was introduced into the attack and quickly took two wickets and again knocked off some tentative batsman. Again, Elmswell dug in and whilst always the run rate was going up, never gave up and crept closer to Milden’s total.
TK shuffled the pack again and the Magic man came on to bowl with some control and skill, and Magic did what Magic does best and took a wicket with Tom last taking a good catch at gully. A really tidy 5 overs from James and much improved bowling, finishing with 1 wicket for 12 runs.
With rain ever threatening and Elmswell continuing to frustrate, Zahid (2 for 23) was replaced by Leppard, but after his first ball, he pulled a hamstring and TK replaced him to finish the over with Boris taking the gloves. TK picked up the 9th wicket with his 4th ball, Leppard taking a ball in the slips despite being otherwise immobile, terrific catch.
The final wicket was removed when Elmswell tried to run two and Zahid with one stump to aim at and over 30 yards away, crashed over the stumps with a laser like throw to finish the innings
A great victory for Milden, had Boris flicking through the annuals to see when was the last time Milden had won 5 on the bounce…… not in recent history. A magnificent performance from everyone, some good fielding, exceptional bowling from Greg and batting from Martin Roffey during the worst of the conditions. The best bit of Sunday was the team spirit, supporting each other and enjoying our cricket.Yes we want to win but we also want to win in the right way.
Next week, Milden are at home to Great Cornard, will be a competitive local derby as always. Milden are top of the league and will be aiming to maintain their lofty position. Please come and support your local team if you can.
Up the Meldes!!!!!!!
Hunts County Cricket League Division 5
Milden Cricket Club 144 for 7
Elmswell Cricket Club 98 All Out
Milden travelled away again, this time to Elmswell to face a team recently relegated from Division 4. The weather was humid and showery and we were not sure if we would be able to get a game on, let alone finish one. Milden were coming into the fixture off the back of four straight victories and full of confidence.
TK lost the toss and Milden were asked to bat. The wicket looked good but was very wet from the downpours on Saturday and the light drizzle that had started as Milden went out to bat. Large credit must go to Elmswell for getting the game on and wanting to get a game of cricket in.
Boris and Martin opened the innings and steadily accumulated runs on a difficult batting surface and after 10 overs Milden sat at 32. Boris was the first to depart being bowled for 14. TK came in at 3 and was tied down by the slow bowling, letting frustration get to him and a poor shot later was caught for 10. Martin continued to play some good shots and was joined by Will Ward who picked up from last week with some terrific boundary hitting. Martin continued to play some fine shots before he too was bowled by one that turned a mile for 35. Big Alex Zahid went in and wafted at a few, Will supporting him until Will was caught for 18.
Nick Leppard joined Alex and had the best view in the house as Alex started to smash the Elmswell bowling about with three massive sixes to provide some much need impetus into the innings. Leppard too played some fine shots before he was bowled for 11. Tim joined Alex and watched as he continued to biff the ball around the ground but Alex was then stumped for 30 trying to heave one too many. Debutant Tom Last strode to the crease but was back in the hutch after being bowled with the second delivery for 0.
Milden did not think they had enough runs and some intelligent batting and superb running from James Harding and Tim Lucas ensured that Milden ended with a competitive ish total, Tim finished on 6 not out and James 3 not out.
Tea was taken and a great spread was laid on, chocolate fingers and cake were surrounded by pate on French stick, Tuna and sweetcorn, cheese and cucumber and cream cheese and tomato sandwiches. TK went down the line, walked back up, had the egg sandwiches been covered by the tune, were they under the table, had they been left in the kitchen……. He sulked off and consoled himself with some cheese and onion crisps.
With tea finished, TK decided to don the gloves and pads and keep wicket. Using England’s draw on Saturday as inspiration and an example of how not to see a game out, a few inspirational words were given, the team seemed more together this week and bang up for the field.
Greg Hayton opened the bowling and with a wet and slow wicket began to provide a bowling masterclass. Nick Leppard came in from the other end and quickly they set about the Elmswell openers. Greg knocked over the stumps of Linnet with a fast straight one and they tied down the batting. Leppard then contributed to the champagne moment when a swinging delivery caught the thick edge and Tim Lucas took a stunning forward diving catch, inches about the ground one handed. Mobbed by his team mates, really provided a lift to his team mates ( I heard there building a statue in Elmswell for him). Elmswell settled in and King and the dangerous Haynes rebuilt the Elmswell innings and Milden could not break through again, but Hayton pinned back the batsman and runs began to dry up.
TK decided to introduce Tom Last into the attack, the young 14 year old, fearless into the attack bowled a dot ball first up, second delivery a snorter of a seamer, third, nicked behind and TK took a diving catch to snaffle, Last with his first wicket for Milden Cricket Club, congratulations.
This seemed to provide again an injection of energy into the Milden team and Greg Hayton ran through the middle order with some fiery bowling knocking over Haynes and Moss to rip the heart out of the middle order and finish 3 wickets for 12 0ff his 10. Quality !
Alex Zahid was introduced into the attack and quickly took two wickets and again knocked off some tentative batsman. Again, Elmswell dug in and whilst always the run rate was going up, never gave up and crept closer to Milden’s total.
TK shuffled the pack again and the Magic man came on to bowl with some control and skill, and Magic did what Magic does best and took a wicket with Tom last taking a good catch at gully. A really tidy 5 overs from James and much improved bowling, finishing with 1 wicket for 12 runs.
With rain ever threatening and Elmswell continuing to frustrate, Zahid (2 for 23) was replaced by Leppard, but after his first ball, he pulled a hamstring and TK replaced him to finish the over with Boris taking the gloves. TK picked up the 9th wicket with his 4th ball, Leppard taking a ball in the slips despite being otherwise immobile, terrific catch.
The final wicket was removed when Elmswell tried to run two and Zahid with one stump to aim at and over 30 yards away, crashed over the stumps with a laser like throw to finish the innings
A great victory for Milden, had Boris flicking through the annuals to see when was the last time Milden had won 5 on the bounce…… not in recent history. A magnificent performance from everyone, some good fielding, exceptional bowling from Greg and batting from Martin Roffey during the worst of the conditions. The best bit of Sunday was the team spirit, supporting each other and enjoying our cricket.Yes we want to win but we also want to win in the right way.
Next week, Milden are at home to Great Cornard, will be a competitive local derby as always. Milden are top of the league and will be aiming to maintain their lofty position. Please come and support your local team if you can.
Up the Meldes!!!!!!!
Hunts County Division 5
Milden Cricket Club 241 for 6
Walsham Le Willows Cricket Club 132 All Out
On a belter of a day, Milden travelled to Walsham le Willows with a full team and everyone keen to continue our unbeaten start to the season. TK won the toss and had no hesitation in electing to bat on a good pitch and quick outfield.
TK and Martin Roffey opened and the runs began to flow before Martin, making his first start was caught by an excellent catch in the covers for 7. Will Ward ambled to the crease but his entrance was nothing like his batting as he started to biff the Walsham bowlers about. After 10 overs Milden had 91, before Will Ward was bowled for an excellent 44. Pat Humphries came in but was soon on his own as TK played a poor shot to top edge for 34.
Players got in and then out on a good batting surface with Zahid going for a duck, Harding, played some nice shots but was bowled for 10 and Tim Lucas caught and bowled for 6.
Pat had been playing some lovely shots in the meantime and was holding the innings together. He was joined by Nick Leppard and together they stopped Walsham creeping back into the game and took it away from them. Some lovely shots were played by both batsman, with Leppard pulling a beauty to the boundary for 4 and Pat playing a terrific lofted cover drive for 6. This broke Walsham’s spirit a bit and both batsman took Milden past 200 + before Nick was unluckily bowled for 30 with one that kept low. Another 100 hundred batting partnership this season.
Debutant Alan Every came to the crease and continued to support Pat who carried on putting Walsham’s bowlers to the sword, Pat finished on 87 not out, Alan Every on 3 and Milden on 241 for 6.
Good job well done, but it could have been very different if Milden had not dug in.
Walsham laid on a very nice tea, but NO EGG SANDWICHES!!! TK was having kittens.
The customary huddle was had and TK spelled out that whilst Milden had turned around what could have been a bit of a disaster, that no matter how smart we looked in our shiny new kit, we had no right to turn up at cricket matches expecting to win, these things are earnt.
The response from Milden was magnificent. Greg Hayton bowled with venom, aggression and skill and was desperately unlucky not to take a wicket, peppering the Walsham opener and unlucky that a skied top edge could not be taken. At the other end Leppard was coming in for a bit of wallop as his shoulder seemed to disturb his rhythm.
TK quickly shuffled the pack and Alex Zahid came into the attack. Now, when you see Alex, please do ask him how he got on, just give yourself an hour or two!!! Very quickly Alex was into the game, trapping the opener LBW and then preceding to run through the top order. Greg was really setting up all the wickets for Alex with some continued hostile bowling finishing unlucky with no wickets for 16 runs.
Alex continued to bowl really well finishing his five’fer by clean bowling another Walsham batsmen, just too quick and accurate, 4 of his wickets were clean bowled finishing on an excellent 5 for 24.
At the other end Alan Every started his debut with a great first delivery, and then twisted his knee on the follow through trying to field his own bowling and had to exit the field for some ice. TK finished the remaining 5 balls with a wicket with his first. Quickly changing it around again, James Pipe had three overs and was unlucky not to take the wicket of the dangerous Newman.
TK shuffled the pack again bringing back Leppard who found his rhythm and bowled Neman to put Milden back in the box seat. Leppard picked up another wicket to complete a solid comeback after his opening spell, TK supported by helping to mop up the tail to finish with three wickets.
An excellent and gutsy win from the Mildeners, Richard Harding was excellent behind the stumps, keeping well to some hostile and quick bowling from Alex ad Greg. Tim Lucas, busy in the field as always showing supporting the bowlers, Will Ward fielding without fuss and making some great stops as always.
Next week, Milden travel to Elmswell who came down from division 4 and will prove to be a stiff test. With only 10 league games to go, Milden will aim to keep up the momentum and continue the unbeaten run.
UP THE MELDES !!!
Milden Cricket Club 241 for 6
Walsham Le Willows Cricket Club 132 All Out
On a belter of a day, Milden travelled to Walsham le Willows with a full team and everyone keen to continue our unbeaten start to the season. TK won the toss and had no hesitation in electing to bat on a good pitch and quick outfield.
TK and Martin Roffey opened and the runs began to flow before Martin, making his first start was caught by an excellent catch in the covers for 7. Will Ward ambled to the crease but his entrance was nothing like his batting as he started to biff the Walsham bowlers about. After 10 overs Milden had 91, before Will Ward was bowled for an excellent 44. Pat Humphries came in but was soon on his own as TK played a poor shot to top edge for 34.
Players got in and then out on a good batting surface with Zahid going for a duck, Harding, played some nice shots but was bowled for 10 and Tim Lucas caught and bowled for 6.
Pat had been playing some lovely shots in the meantime and was holding the innings together. He was joined by Nick Leppard and together they stopped Walsham creeping back into the game and took it away from them. Some lovely shots were played by both batsman, with Leppard pulling a beauty to the boundary for 4 and Pat playing a terrific lofted cover drive for 6. This broke Walsham’s spirit a bit and both batsman took Milden past 200 + before Nick was unluckily bowled for 30 with one that kept low. Another 100 hundred batting partnership this season.
Debutant Alan Every came to the crease and continued to support Pat who carried on putting Walsham’s bowlers to the sword, Pat finished on 87 not out, Alan Every on 3 and Milden on 241 for 6.
Good job well done, but it could have been very different if Milden had not dug in.
Walsham laid on a very nice tea, but NO EGG SANDWICHES!!! TK was having kittens.
The customary huddle was had and TK spelled out that whilst Milden had turned around what could have been a bit of a disaster, that no matter how smart we looked in our shiny new kit, we had no right to turn up at cricket matches expecting to win, these things are earnt.
The response from Milden was magnificent. Greg Hayton bowled with venom, aggression and skill and was desperately unlucky not to take a wicket, peppering the Walsham opener and unlucky that a skied top edge could not be taken. At the other end Leppard was coming in for a bit of wallop as his shoulder seemed to disturb his rhythm.
TK quickly shuffled the pack and Alex Zahid came into the attack. Now, when you see Alex, please do ask him how he got on, just give yourself an hour or two!!! Very quickly Alex was into the game, trapping the opener LBW and then preceding to run through the top order. Greg was really setting up all the wickets for Alex with some continued hostile bowling finishing unlucky with no wickets for 16 runs.
Alex continued to bowl really well finishing his five’fer by clean bowling another Walsham batsmen, just too quick and accurate, 4 of his wickets were clean bowled finishing on an excellent 5 for 24.
At the other end Alan Every started his debut with a great first delivery, and then twisted his knee on the follow through trying to field his own bowling and had to exit the field for some ice. TK finished the remaining 5 balls with a wicket with his first. Quickly changing it around again, James Pipe had three overs and was unlucky not to take the wicket of the dangerous Newman.
TK shuffled the pack again bringing back Leppard who found his rhythm and bowled Neman to put Milden back in the box seat. Leppard picked up another wicket to complete a solid comeback after his opening spell, TK supported by helping to mop up the tail to finish with three wickets.
An excellent and gutsy win from the Mildeners, Richard Harding was excellent behind the stumps, keeping well to some hostile and quick bowling from Alex ad Greg. Tim Lucas, busy in the field as always showing supporting the bowlers, Will Ward fielding without fuss and making some great stops as always.
Next week, Milden travel to Elmswell who came down from division 4 and will prove to be a stiff test. With only 10 league games to go, Milden will aim to keep up the momentum and continue the unbeaten run.
UP THE MELDES !!!
Sunday 22nd May 2016
Hunts County Cricket League, Division 5
Tendring Park 125 for 7
Milden 126 for 7
Milden arrived at the picturesque Tendring Park, raring to go after last week’s great win against Old Newton. Milden were down to 10 due to an unavoidable late call off. TK lost the toss and Tendring Park elected to bat. With overcast and humid conditions, Leppard and TK were quickly into their stride, hooping the ball around, many shots played and missed by the home batsman. Leppard struck first with a clean bowling of the opener followed by snaffling the number 3 with a thin edge. TK had no wickets so quickly introduced Zahid who bowled on well on a slow wicket, but again, could not seem to get one.
The outfield was exceptionally slow, TK decided to take the pace off the ball and introduced the Magic Man and James Harding. Both bowled well, and James did what James did best and took a wicket with the first ball of his second over, that is magic! James Harding continued to bowl well from the top end and was unlucky not to take a wicket, the ball seemed to evade the Milden field and both bowlers were unlucky not to take further wickets with a couple of dropped catches.
Pat Humphries was thrown the ball and quickly picked up a wicket, Richard Harding taking a magnificent diving catch behind the stumps and Milden started to gain some momentum with Tendring Park finding it difficult to score runs.
TK and Leppard came back into the attack and continued to put the brakes on the Tendring Park innings with TK picking up a couple of wickets. 40 overs were seen out with 7 wickets down.
A fantastic tea was taken and with the sun making an appearance the ground was bathed in warm sunshine and a plethora of pork based products, sandwiches and cakes were laid on by our hosts. Egg sandwiches were a plenty, 7 out of 10 for this week’s effort for the egg sandwiches.
Milden started the innings in usual Milden style, Zahid opening the innings and being caught fourth ball whilst wafting at one outside off stump. Will Ward played a few nice shots but was unlucky to be given out caught behind when he felt it came off the pad. Harding and Boris rebuilt the innings with Boris steadily moving the ball around and Harding trying to accelerate, some great running between the wickets.
Harding went for one too many swipes to depart for 22 and Humphries picked up where Harding left off with some great running and hitting to take the score forward to the 80’s before Boris skied one and was removed for 26. TK and Pat continued the run chase which was also under control till Pat was give out LBW for 18 and the Milden nerves jangled a bit. But TK continued to push the score forward, well supported by Tim Lucas who batted intelligently but was caught for 4. Leppard strode to the crease with still 10 runs required to win and 3 overs left. Between Leppards big shots and TK supporting Milden saw out the innings without further drama to win with 2 overs to spare. Leppard finished 5 not out, TK 29 not out.
Really good win for Milden, Tendring Park were no pushovers and fought hard. We were really well hosted and both teams retired to the Crown Inn to enjoy a cold beer and a chat about the game. Next week there is no game, then we are away to Walsham the following week. Three wins out of three. Up the Meldes !!!!!
Hunts County Cricket League, Division 5
Tendring Park 125 for 7
Milden 126 for 7
Milden arrived at the picturesque Tendring Park, raring to go after last week’s great win against Old Newton. Milden were down to 10 due to an unavoidable late call off. TK lost the toss and Tendring Park elected to bat. With overcast and humid conditions, Leppard and TK were quickly into their stride, hooping the ball around, many shots played and missed by the home batsman. Leppard struck first with a clean bowling of the opener followed by snaffling the number 3 with a thin edge. TK had no wickets so quickly introduced Zahid who bowled on well on a slow wicket, but again, could not seem to get one.
The outfield was exceptionally slow, TK decided to take the pace off the ball and introduced the Magic Man and James Harding. Both bowled well, and James did what James did best and took a wicket with the first ball of his second over, that is magic! James Harding continued to bowl well from the top end and was unlucky not to take a wicket, the ball seemed to evade the Milden field and both bowlers were unlucky not to take further wickets with a couple of dropped catches.
Pat Humphries was thrown the ball and quickly picked up a wicket, Richard Harding taking a magnificent diving catch behind the stumps and Milden started to gain some momentum with Tendring Park finding it difficult to score runs.
TK and Leppard came back into the attack and continued to put the brakes on the Tendring Park innings with TK picking up a couple of wickets. 40 overs were seen out with 7 wickets down.
A fantastic tea was taken and with the sun making an appearance the ground was bathed in warm sunshine and a plethora of pork based products, sandwiches and cakes were laid on by our hosts. Egg sandwiches were a plenty, 7 out of 10 for this week’s effort for the egg sandwiches.
Milden started the innings in usual Milden style, Zahid opening the innings and being caught fourth ball whilst wafting at one outside off stump. Will Ward played a few nice shots but was unlucky to be given out caught behind when he felt it came off the pad. Harding and Boris rebuilt the innings with Boris steadily moving the ball around and Harding trying to accelerate, some great running between the wickets.
Harding went for one too many swipes to depart for 22 and Humphries picked up where Harding left off with some great running and hitting to take the score forward to the 80’s before Boris skied one and was removed for 26. TK and Pat continued the run chase which was also under control till Pat was give out LBW for 18 and the Milden nerves jangled a bit. But TK continued to push the score forward, well supported by Tim Lucas who batted intelligently but was caught for 4. Leppard strode to the crease with still 10 runs required to win and 3 overs left. Between Leppards big shots and TK supporting Milden saw out the innings without further drama to win with 2 overs to spare. Leppard finished 5 not out, TK 29 not out.
Really good win for Milden, Tendring Park were no pushovers and fought hard. We were really well hosted and both teams retired to the Crown Inn to enjoy a cold beer and a chat about the game. Next week there is no game, then we are away to Walsham the following week. Three wins out of three. Up the Meldes !!!!!
Hunts County Cricket league Division 5
Milden Cricket Club 224 for 3
Old Newton Cricket Club 52 All Out
Milden welcomed Old Newton to the Sportsfield on a sunny and warm Sunday afternoon. Some of the Old Newton guys were there from 12.30, keen to play which is always a good sign. Following some outstanding work by Richard Harding this week in preparing the pitch, supported superbly by Andrew Simmons, TK had no hesitation in batting when he won the toss, especially as Milden had only fielded 10 players due to a combination of unavailability. Milden also welcomed new player Tom Duffy to the fold.
Boris and Sumo opened the innings and made steady progress for the first 6 overs, ticking along at 4 an over before Sumo was caught for 6. TK came to the crease and both him and Boris watched carefully, with Boris playing some fine shots to keep the run rate going. TK began to trouble the scorers and together with Boris began to up the run rate with some aggressive and careful batting. TK passed 50 but Milden seemed to get to 20 overs and get a bit stuck. With the over rate slowing slightly. Both batsman again took the game to Old Newton and TK passed 100 with still 9 overs to go. Boris was eventually bowled for a well worked 41 and Alex Zahid soon after that for 3. TK carried on blazing away at the now tiring Old Newton attack and Richard Harding who was now at the crease added to his excellent score last week with some further quick runs. Milden finished their 40 overs on 224 for 3, Harding 16 not out and TK 130 not out.
Andrew Simmons was under immense pressure with tea have put his hand up last week to do it. The table groaned under a splendid selection of sandwiches, cakes, sausage rolls and pizza slices, with some salad and tomato’s to show that he cares about our 5 a day. Sumo had kept with his ricing method for the egg sandwiches, some may think controversial, but a job done well ensured that 8.5 out of 10 was agreed by the team for his effort, 9 would of been achieved with some cress. Nevertheless, terrific effort and was really appreciated by both home and opposition players.
Following another Charlotte Church type team talk from TK, Milden entered the field, revved up and quickly began to dismantle the Old Newton innings. Greg Hayton bowled with his customary pace but will real accuracy to remove the opener and Nick Leppard ably supporting. As like last week, both opening bowlers were just too good and accurate Hayton taking two wickets and Leppard four. All were bowled except for one of Nick’s which was magnificently taken in the slips by Sumo.
TK started to rotate the bowling with Pipe wheeling away from one end, unlucky not to take a wicket when a bottom edge could not be snaffled by Harding. Tim Lucas and Alex Zahid were also brought in with the latter bowling with real pace but Milden could not pick up the last 4 wickets. However, Tim Lucas’ accuracy and perseverance paid off when S. Stowe’s resilience was broken and he chipped to square leg where Duffy took a smart running catch.
Old Newton dug in now more for pride as the score crept to 50, what would TK do next? Boris chipped in with the suggestion of tossing it up…….. Enter Andrew Simmons, difficult to explain and pad it out, he bowled 7 balls. He bowled better than any of us have seen him bowl… (.WW+11W) Control, accuracy and determination, mopping up the Old Newton tail in double quick time to finish with magnificent figures of 3 for 3. The stuff that legend is made from, do we have another magic man ?
A great follow up to last week’s great win over Lavenham, super effort from everyone and in particular with the support in getting the ground ready and clearing up after. Everyone decamped to the White Horse to share some banter and beers. TK got a jug in and for this was awarded the beans.
Next week Milden are away to tendering Park Cricket Club.
Milden Cricket Club 224 for 3
Old Newton Cricket Club 52 All Out
Milden welcomed Old Newton to the Sportsfield on a sunny and warm Sunday afternoon. Some of the Old Newton guys were there from 12.30, keen to play which is always a good sign. Following some outstanding work by Richard Harding this week in preparing the pitch, supported superbly by Andrew Simmons, TK had no hesitation in batting when he won the toss, especially as Milden had only fielded 10 players due to a combination of unavailability. Milden also welcomed new player Tom Duffy to the fold.
Boris and Sumo opened the innings and made steady progress for the first 6 overs, ticking along at 4 an over before Sumo was caught for 6. TK came to the crease and both him and Boris watched carefully, with Boris playing some fine shots to keep the run rate going. TK began to trouble the scorers and together with Boris began to up the run rate with some aggressive and careful batting. TK passed 50 but Milden seemed to get to 20 overs and get a bit stuck. With the over rate slowing slightly. Both batsman again took the game to Old Newton and TK passed 100 with still 9 overs to go. Boris was eventually bowled for a well worked 41 and Alex Zahid soon after that for 3. TK carried on blazing away at the now tiring Old Newton attack and Richard Harding who was now at the crease added to his excellent score last week with some further quick runs. Milden finished their 40 overs on 224 for 3, Harding 16 not out and TK 130 not out.
Andrew Simmons was under immense pressure with tea have put his hand up last week to do it. The table groaned under a splendid selection of sandwiches, cakes, sausage rolls and pizza slices, with some salad and tomato’s to show that he cares about our 5 a day. Sumo had kept with his ricing method for the egg sandwiches, some may think controversial, but a job done well ensured that 8.5 out of 10 was agreed by the team for his effort, 9 would of been achieved with some cress. Nevertheless, terrific effort and was really appreciated by both home and opposition players.
Following another Charlotte Church type team talk from TK, Milden entered the field, revved up and quickly began to dismantle the Old Newton innings. Greg Hayton bowled with his customary pace but will real accuracy to remove the opener and Nick Leppard ably supporting. As like last week, both opening bowlers were just too good and accurate Hayton taking two wickets and Leppard four. All were bowled except for one of Nick’s which was magnificently taken in the slips by Sumo.
TK started to rotate the bowling with Pipe wheeling away from one end, unlucky not to take a wicket when a bottom edge could not be snaffled by Harding. Tim Lucas and Alex Zahid were also brought in with the latter bowling with real pace but Milden could not pick up the last 4 wickets. However, Tim Lucas’ accuracy and perseverance paid off when S. Stowe’s resilience was broken and he chipped to square leg where Duffy took a smart running catch.
Old Newton dug in now more for pride as the score crept to 50, what would TK do next? Boris chipped in with the suggestion of tossing it up…….. Enter Andrew Simmons, difficult to explain and pad it out, he bowled 7 balls. He bowled better than any of us have seen him bowl… (.WW+11W) Control, accuracy and determination, mopping up the Old Newton tail in double quick time to finish with magnificent figures of 3 for 3. The stuff that legend is made from, do we have another magic man ?
A great follow up to last week’s great win over Lavenham, super effort from everyone and in particular with the support in getting the ground ready and clearing up after. Everyone decamped to the White Horse to share some banter and beers. TK got a jug in and for this was awarded the beans.
Next week Milden are away to tendering Park Cricket Club.
Sunday 8th May – Lavenham, Bridge Street Oval
Milden Cricket Club 221 All Out
Lavenham Cricket Club 176 All Out
First game of the season for Milden and on a very warm day, with a pitch expected more in August than May, Captain TK lost the toss and Milden were invited to bat. Lavenham started well but Boris and Sumes were watchful for the first overs but kept the scoreboard ticking over until Sumes was cleaned bowled by Cruse. TK came in at number three and started watchfully with Cruse bowling some tight lines, Boris skying a catch to go for 12. Will Ward looked in good shape but was unfortunately run out for 4 and Pat Humphries back in the side went for 1 after cover driving beautifully, only to find a fielder. Harding strode to the crease and in his usual flamboyant style got stuck in. TK and Rich put together a stand of 50 to accelerate the Milden innings, passing one hundred without too much drama and entertain the now substantial crowd. Lavenham seemed to be wilting in the sun when TK went for 67. Richard continued onwards with some smart cricket before exiting for a great 51. Tim Lucas and Alex Zahid kept up the momentum with knocks of 25 and 31 respectively, Lucas playing with some confidence and Zahid occasionally with his head !! Pipe, Leppard and Hayton kept the runs going to the end with Zahid before the innings closed on the last ball with Alex being stumped and Milden finishing on a good 221.
Tea was taken and the table was groaning under a range of Sausage rolls, pork pies and magnificent sandwiches, egg was on the menu, very good indeed. A basket of doughnuts and a range of cakes were also polished off, would Milden ‘over tea’?
Following TK’s Charlotte Church team talk, Milden got stuck into Lavenham from the beginning with Hayton and Leppard bowling some terrific overs, Hayton trapping the opener LBW with Leppard picking up Andrews an over later. Hayton struck again by wonderfully bowling Easdale and Leppard was not to be out done by his partner, clean bowling Madell. Lavenham continued to lose wickets with Zahid and Hayton again picking up more wickets, Hayton bowling the dangerous looking Bellward and Zahid clean bowling Cruse and Levett. Lavenham teetering on 48 for 7. The belligerent M. Theobold came to the creae and battled hard with some top bowling from Hayton and Zahid but could not get him out, Lavenham went past a hundred with G Nice backing him up well. Unfortunately Nice was struck on the head by Hayton and had to retire hurt. TK brought himself on and when he stopped bowling twiddly shit, managed to remove Theobold with Rich Harding taking a magnificent catch from an inside edge. Tatum and S Theobold continued to battle hard and it looked like Lavenham may repeat their victory of last year before TK clean bowled Tatum and Lavenham were all out for 176.
Firstly, our best wishes go out to G. Nice and we hope he makes a speedy recovery. We were really well received by Lavenham and your wicket is a credit to your efforts, keep up the good work. A competitive game of cricket, against our local rivals, bit of needle and banter, played in the right way. Thanks for hosting us at the Angel after.
Great start to Milden’s season, fantastic effort from everyone, nice to see a bit of team bonding building. Next week we are at home to Old Newton, Sumes is doing the tea, no pressure on those egg sandwiches. Up the Meldes !!!
Milden Cricket Club 221 All Out
Lavenham Cricket Club 176 All Out
First game of the season for Milden and on a very warm day, with a pitch expected more in August than May, Captain TK lost the toss and Milden were invited to bat. Lavenham started well but Boris and Sumes were watchful for the first overs but kept the scoreboard ticking over until Sumes was cleaned bowled by Cruse. TK came in at number three and started watchfully with Cruse bowling some tight lines, Boris skying a catch to go for 12. Will Ward looked in good shape but was unfortunately run out for 4 and Pat Humphries back in the side went for 1 after cover driving beautifully, only to find a fielder. Harding strode to the crease and in his usual flamboyant style got stuck in. TK and Rich put together a stand of 50 to accelerate the Milden innings, passing one hundred without too much drama and entertain the now substantial crowd. Lavenham seemed to be wilting in the sun when TK went for 67. Richard continued onwards with some smart cricket before exiting for a great 51. Tim Lucas and Alex Zahid kept up the momentum with knocks of 25 and 31 respectively, Lucas playing with some confidence and Zahid occasionally with his head !! Pipe, Leppard and Hayton kept the runs going to the end with Zahid before the innings closed on the last ball with Alex being stumped and Milden finishing on a good 221.
Tea was taken and the table was groaning under a range of Sausage rolls, pork pies and magnificent sandwiches, egg was on the menu, very good indeed. A basket of doughnuts and a range of cakes were also polished off, would Milden ‘over tea’?
Following TK’s Charlotte Church team talk, Milden got stuck into Lavenham from the beginning with Hayton and Leppard bowling some terrific overs, Hayton trapping the opener LBW with Leppard picking up Andrews an over later. Hayton struck again by wonderfully bowling Easdale and Leppard was not to be out done by his partner, clean bowling Madell. Lavenham continued to lose wickets with Zahid and Hayton again picking up more wickets, Hayton bowling the dangerous looking Bellward and Zahid clean bowling Cruse and Levett. Lavenham teetering on 48 for 7. The belligerent M. Theobold came to the creae and battled hard with some top bowling from Hayton and Zahid but could not get him out, Lavenham went past a hundred with G Nice backing him up well. Unfortunately Nice was struck on the head by Hayton and had to retire hurt. TK brought himself on and when he stopped bowling twiddly shit, managed to remove Theobold with Rich Harding taking a magnificent catch from an inside edge. Tatum and S Theobold continued to battle hard and it looked like Lavenham may repeat their victory of last year before TK clean bowled Tatum and Lavenham were all out for 176.
Firstly, our best wishes go out to G. Nice and we hope he makes a speedy recovery. We were really well received by Lavenham and your wicket is a credit to your efforts, keep up the good work. A competitive game of cricket, against our local rivals, bit of needle and banter, played in the right way. Thanks for hosting us at the Angel after.
Great start to Milden’s season, fantastic effort from everyone, nice to see a bit of team bonding building. Next week we are at home to Old Newton, Sumes is doing the tea, no pressure on those egg sandwiches. Up the Meldes !!!
Walsham le Willows 148 All out
Milden 149 for 9
Milden win by 1 wicket
Milden travelled to Walsham on the back of a great win against Great Bardwell, TK lost the toss and Walsham elected to bat. This was a good toss to lose, but ultimately its always a good ground to bat on. However, Milden ran riot in the first 10 overs, both Hayton and Whymark tore through the Walsham top order leaving the home side 26 for 5 and in a bit of shock. Hayton cleaned bowled one as did Whymark, with some really excellent catches being taken by Alex Zahid at first slip and Will Ward taking an excellent one in the deep. Everyone was preparing for an early tea when TK had the Walsham skipper back in the hutch with Harding taking an unorthordox catch behind the stumps.
TK rotated the bowling but Milden could not remove the left handed Newman, which they then went to drop him three times and Walsham battled hard to finish on 148 all out and Newman top scoring with 95.Fair play to Walsham, they dug in, showed some spirit and put on a total which was still well under par.
A nice tea was taken, but the edge seemed to have been taken off Mildens performance.
Roffey and Sumes kicked off the reply putting on a good stand before Sumes departed. Will Ward went in at number 3 and Milden were cruising until Roffey was adjudged LBW for 30. Richard Harding continued partnering the well in Ward until he was also removed and TK carried on pushing the innings on to over 100 until he was cleaned bowled.
Now, Milden can never be classed as not entertaining, Zahid showed some form and bashing the Walsham innings around for a quick fire 16 until again adjudged LBW. Tabs came in and then went back as did other Milden batsmen until it was left to Whymark, who had slowly accumalated a few and Pipe to achieve 10 more runs to win the game. A few heart in the mouth moments occurred but Pipe supported Whymark really well, holding his nerve and Whymark hit a couple of two's to see the game home. 20 points were achieved but to be fair even though Walsham scored 148, Milden should of seen that home easily, plenty of overs in hand but again some poor shot selection and application meant that we made it hard for ourselves. Milden really need to focus on their batting. Some great performances, people really stepping up, James Harding and James Pipe both bowled well,Hayton and Whymark were exceptional in their opening spell, but 'The Beans' really have to go to Will Ward, another good knock but some of the catches he took were game changing and he has really stepped up this season with more consistency and some outstanding fielding and bating performances which have helped us win games. Ten Bears, top effort. Lavenham at home is our next fixture, just trying to confirm a date for the fixture as currently over the Bank Holiday weekend. Keep an eye out on facebook and whats app for more details.
Milden 149 for 9
Milden win by 1 wicket
Milden travelled to Walsham on the back of a great win against Great Bardwell, TK lost the toss and Walsham elected to bat. This was a good toss to lose, but ultimately its always a good ground to bat on. However, Milden ran riot in the first 10 overs, both Hayton and Whymark tore through the Walsham top order leaving the home side 26 for 5 and in a bit of shock. Hayton cleaned bowled one as did Whymark, with some really excellent catches being taken by Alex Zahid at first slip and Will Ward taking an excellent one in the deep. Everyone was preparing for an early tea when TK had the Walsham skipper back in the hutch with Harding taking an unorthordox catch behind the stumps.
TK rotated the bowling but Milden could not remove the left handed Newman, which they then went to drop him three times and Walsham battled hard to finish on 148 all out and Newman top scoring with 95.Fair play to Walsham, they dug in, showed some spirit and put on a total which was still well under par.
A nice tea was taken, but the edge seemed to have been taken off Mildens performance.
Roffey and Sumes kicked off the reply putting on a good stand before Sumes departed. Will Ward went in at number 3 and Milden were cruising until Roffey was adjudged LBW for 30. Richard Harding continued partnering the well in Ward until he was also removed and TK carried on pushing the innings on to over 100 until he was cleaned bowled.
Now, Milden can never be classed as not entertaining, Zahid showed some form and bashing the Walsham innings around for a quick fire 16 until again adjudged LBW. Tabs came in and then went back as did other Milden batsmen until it was left to Whymark, who had slowly accumalated a few and Pipe to achieve 10 more runs to win the game. A few heart in the mouth moments occurred but Pipe supported Whymark really well, holding his nerve and Whymark hit a couple of two's to see the game home. 20 points were achieved but to be fair even though Walsham scored 148, Milden should of seen that home easily, plenty of overs in hand but again some poor shot selection and application meant that we made it hard for ourselves. Milden really need to focus on their batting. Some great performances, people really stepping up, James Harding and James Pipe both bowled well,Hayton and Whymark were exceptional in their opening spell, but 'The Beans' really have to go to Will Ward, another good knock but some of the catches he took were game changing and he has really stepped up this season with more consistency and some outstanding fielding and bating performances which have helped us win games. Ten Bears, top effort. Lavenham at home is our next fixture, just trying to confirm a date for the fixture as currently over the Bank Holiday weekend. Keep an eye out on facebook and whats app for more details.
Milden v Elveden Academy
Match Abandoned, no result
Unfortunately Sunday's game against Elveden was abandoned at tea time due to heavy rain. Big thanks must go to Richard Harding, Andrew Simmons and Sam Whymark for all the pitch work in the week to get the game on and for James Pipe sorting the covers so that we were not rained off Sunday morning.
On the pitch, some great performances, Greg Hayton bowled a fiery spell, ( taste of your own medicine springs to mind) at Elveden and took two wickets. Sam Whymark picked up two as well, new boy Alex Zahid taking a smart slip catch. David Willis took a wicket and another debutant Guy Evans got his first wicket for the club with some controlled leg spin. Alas, the heavens opened and we had to abandon a game that was coming nicely up to the boil.
This weeks beans go to James Pipe (and his Mum and Dad) for putting on an excellent tea. Not only was the tea superb (Egg sandwiches were excellent and those home made sausage rolls, Boom) but James sorted the tea and was not even playing, top club spirit !!!
No game next week but 26th we are at home to Long Melford in a friendly
Match Abandoned, no result
Unfortunately Sunday's game against Elveden was abandoned at tea time due to heavy rain. Big thanks must go to Richard Harding, Andrew Simmons and Sam Whymark for all the pitch work in the week to get the game on and for James Pipe sorting the covers so that we were not rained off Sunday morning.
On the pitch, some great performances, Greg Hayton bowled a fiery spell, ( taste of your own medicine springs to mind) at Elveden and took two wickets. Sam Whymark picked up two as well, new boy Alex Zahid taking a smart slip catch. David Willis took a wicket and another debutant Guy Evans got his first wicket for the club with some controlled leg spin. Alas, the heavens opened and we had to abandon a game that was coming nicely up to the boil.
This weeks beans go to James Pipe (and his Mum and Dad) for putting on an excellent tea. Not only was the tea superb (Egg sandwiches were excellent and those home made sausage rolls, Boom) but James sorted the tea and was not even playing, top club spirit !!!
No game next week but 26th we are at home to Long Melford in a friendly
Sudbury Academy 198 for 7
Milden 202 for 7
Milden win by 3 wickets
Milden made the short trip to Sudbury on a very overcast and gloomy day. Rain had been in the air but with the covers protecting Sudbury’s fine wicket and a well drained outfield, play was able to start on time. Richard won the toss and elected to field.
Sudbury made a solid start with the run rate ticking over at over 5 an over. The ‘chirpy’ O ‘Brien played some solid shots with skipper Holness keeping steady up the other end. Greg took the first wicket with an aggressive bouncer that Holness to edged and Will Ward did the rest. TK took the wicket of O’Brien with Whymark making an excellent catch low down at mid off, O’Brien was not happy, but he was sent on his way.
Milden dragged the run rate back to 3 an over, excellent work on a great batting pitch and an ever drying outfield. Tk and Hayton continued to bowl tidily with Hayton next too strike, batsman gloving an express delivery onto JWE’s helmet and Will Ward too a great diving catch.
The game ebbed and flowed with Sudbury digging in and taking the game away from Milden, Swiney could not repeat his good bowling from last week so Robinson and Whymark came into the attack. Skip took three wickets, breaking a solid partnership in the middle order, Swiney taking a great catch at Long from the well set Amos and picking up a couple well bowled. Whymark picked up a good wicket after a shaky start, coming back well.
Again Sudbury dug in and Waldock came to the crease and with the support of Martin put on a stand but TK and Greg dragged the run rate back leaving Sudbury on a below par 198 for the Friars Street ground.
A good tea was provided with a mixture of cheese and pickle, cheese and onion, Tuna and egg sandwiches. Crisps and pork pies accompanied the sandwich selection, but it was agreed that whilst the egg sandwiches were very good, more pepper was needed. Cakes and biscuits with hot tea to finish.
Milden started there innings in a very un Milden like fashion, a solid foundation was laid by Martin Roffey and Tabs, 50 was on the board before Tabs was bowled for 11. Martin returned to good form supported by Swinney, before the latter was well caught and bowled for 8. Tim Lucas went in and batted maturely dispatching a few boundaries before being caught for 10. Tk entered the fray and both him and Martin dealt with some hostile bowling from O’Brien before Roffey sportingly walked after gloving to the keeper for 43. TK and Will Ward batted well together, in particular Will Ward, building a stand of 35 runs before TK was caught behind by the keeper.
Milden were always up with the run rate but would they collapse now, this looked on the cards when Hayton and Pipe were dismissed for ducks but they had supported the inform Ward who continued to bat maturely and biff the bad balls to the boundary. When Pipe was dismissed Whymark dug in at the other end supporting Ward who took the attack to Sudbury.
The tension rose when with still 30 runs to get, Whymark was dropped at slip and a few balls later, played onto his stumps but the bails stayed put. Sam and Will started to believe it was their day and with some really good running and some excellent shots, saw Milden home with 7 overs to spare. Jubilation ensued from the watching players. Will Ward finished 66 not out and Whymark 11, Will Ward picking up the man of the match award.
Milden continue unbeaten this season and are top of Division 5.
Big thanks must go to Sumo for being an excellent 12th man, supporter and Milden enthusiast, really helped keep Milden focused and supported.
Milden retired to the bar and enjoyed Will Ward’s purchase of a jug of beer. This win was a big step for Milden, in years past we would have folded but we seem to have found a new determination and resolve to see the job through. Whilst generally we were really well received by Sudbury, in particular their skipper, one or two of the Sudbury players were unhappy in losing to a small club such as ours but always remember Mildeners, at least we are in our clubs first team !!
Up the Meldes !!
Walsham le Willows 2nd XI 121 All Out
Milden 123 for 2 win by 8 wickets
Milden welcomed our good friends from Walsham on a beautiful summers day with the ground looking picture perfect. Skipper Robinson lost the toss and Walsham elected to bat, the track looking very flat and dry.
TK and new boy Hayton opened up with Hayton bowing an aggressive and quick spell with the ball flying through the slips and gulley with chances just out of reach. Konopka at the other end had one dropped at slip and Walsham stood 54 for no loss.
Andrew Swinney was brought on together with new boy Sam Sheldrake with Swinney dismissing the opener Wright LBW and Sam having the other opener Pace snaffled by Pipe at point. The dangerous ‘T Dog’ Newman strode to the crease and Sheldrake almost had his second wicket but it was dropped at point.
Robinson came into the attack and bowled a controlled opening few overs but the big breakthrough came when Tim Lucas held on to a fierce drive from Swinneys bowling having taking the prized wicket of Newman.
Milden’s fielding picked up a bit had been a bit flat up to then but Sheldrake showed everyone how it was done, taking a magnificent catch near the boundary with one hand, Robinson taking another wicket. Probably catch of the season already !!
Skip wheeled away and with the introduction of Pipe they bowled well, Richard taking another couple of wickets to finish with 4 for 25 and Magic Man taking two wickets in succession with the opportunity of a hat trick, which was dispatched to the boundary for 4, Pipe claimed his final wicket to finish with 3 for 16.
Milden retired to the Pavillion where Skip and Mrs Robinson laid on a magnificent tea, the table groaning under the weight of egg sandwiches, tune and cucumber, pork pies and cheesy straws. There were cakes a plenty with a cheeky tube of squeezey cream, wrong but right on so many levels.
The Milden inning started steadily with Martin Roffey and Swinney opening until Martin got a leading edge and was caught and bowled. Will Ward was promoted to number 3 and between him and Swinney, dispatched the bowling to all parts of the ground. Swinney looked in imperious form and the scored ticked along nicely till Will was bowled by Lash for 17. TK partnered with Swinney to finish the game off ending unbeaten on 14 with Swinney finishing with an excellent 64 not out.
Fantastic win for Milden and the manner in which we applied ourselves was terrific. Lots of new players looking to join and with a few coming back, selection will be tough for Robinson. Milden play away at Sudbury next Sunday so please see if you can make nets on Thursday from 6.30pm.
Without knowing the Bardwell result, Milden currently sit second, many more wins like this will be needed if we are gather momentum for a promotion push. Up the Meldes !!
Milden 123 for 2 win by 8 wickets
Milden welcomed our good friends from Walsham on a beautiful summers day with the ground looking picture perfect. Skipper Robinson lost the toss and Walsham elected to bat, the track looking very flat and dry.
TK and new boy Hayton opened up with Hayton bowing an aggressive and quick spell with the ball flying through the slips and gulley with chances just out of reach. Konopka at the other end had one dropped at slip and Walsham stood 54 for no loss.
Andrew Swinney was brought on together with new boy Sam Sheldrake with Swinney dismissing the opener Wright LBW and Sam having the other opener Pace snaffled by Pipe at point. The dangerous ‘T Dog’ Newman strode to the crease and Sheldrake almost had his second wicket but it was dropped at point.
Robinson came into the attack and bowled a controlled opening few overs but the big breakthrough came when Tim Lucas held on to a fierce drive from Swinneys bowling having taking the prized wicket of Newman.
Milden’s fielding picked up a bit had been a bit flat up to then but Sheldrake showed everyone how it was done, taking a magnificent catch near the boundary with one hand, Robinson taking another wicket. Probably catch of the season already !!
Skip wheeled away and with the introduction of Pipe they bowled well, Richard taking another couple of wickets to finish with 4 for 25 and Magic Man taking two wickets in succession with the opportunity of a hat trick, which was dispatched to the boundary for 4, Pipe claimed his final wicket to finish with 3 for 16.
Milden retired to the Pavillion where Skip and Mrs Robinson laid on a magnificent tea, the table groaning under the weight of egg sandwiches, tune and cucumber, pork pies and cheesy straws. There were cakes a plenty with a cheeky tube of squeezey cream, wrong but right on so many levels.
The Milden inning started steadily with Martin Roffey and Swinney opening until Martin got a leading edge and was caught and bowled. Will Ward was promoted to number 3 and between him and Swinney, dispatched the bowling to all parts of the ground. Swinney looked in imperious form and the scored ticked along nicely till Will was bowled by Lash for 17. TK partnered with Swinney to finish the game off ending unbeaten on 14 with Swinney finishing with an excellent 64 not out.
Fantastic win for Milden and the manner in which we applied ourselves was terrific. Lots of new players looking to join and with a few coming back, selection will be tough for Robinson. Milden play away at Sudbury next Sunday so please see if you can make nets on Thursday from 6.30pm.
Without knowing the Bardwell result, Milden currently sit second, many more wins like this will be needed if we are gather momentum for a promotion push. Up the Meldes !!
Milden 95 All Out
Great Cornard 74 All Out, Milden win by 21 runs.
Milden welcomed Great Cornard for what was our 4 h game of the season but really our first due to the weather being not playing a straight bat.
Cornard won the toss and asked Milden to bat, Milden were soon in trouble with both Tabs and Richard Harding in the Pavillion, not troubling the scorers. TK and Boris rebuilt the innings from 2 for 2 to 40 for 2, when TK was bowled for 19 and Boris went soon after for 18. Milden scratched around with a few batsmen going for ducks but but some application from James Pipe (with a excellent 16), Whymark with 8 and James Harding with a a few more, Milden finished on 95 all out after 38 overs.
Milden were very much below par on a well prepared wicket but a slow outfield.
A splendid tea was laid on my Mrs Robinson, the table groaned with sausages, sausage rolls, a fine selection of sandwiches and some top notch home baked cake !!
Milden went to field with Skip giving a rousing team talk, soon Milden were into the wickets with TK and Sam picking up a couple. Whymark got into the 'Nard batting line up picking up 4 wickets. Milden had a tough challenge but Whymark removed the dangerous Barlow with his 4th and Milden applied a tight grip on the run rate.
Robinson bowled splendidly, picking up two good wickets and at the end it was Andrew Swinney and TK who bowled tightly to wrap up the innings when Swinney had the last batsmen caught by Robinson to finish off the 'Nard. Swinney bowled beautifully and maybe should of had more wickets but bowled with pace and guile.
Milden were at least 50 runs short of a competitive score, but fought back well in the field to really win this game. Valuable runs from Milden's tail really helped give Milden a chance but ultimately a fine fielding performance helped Milden coross the line.
James Pipe was awarded the beans for his crucial innings but Whymark ran him close, but it was well deserved for Pipe.
No game on Bank Holiday weekend next week,but maybe nets will be arranged.
Up the Meldes !!
Great Cornard 74 All Out, Milden win by 21 runs.
Milden welcomed Great Cornard for what was our 4 h game of the season but really our first due to the weather being not playing a straight bat.
Cornard won the toss and asked Milden to bat, Milden were soon in trouble with both Tabs and Richard Harding in the Pavillion, not troubling the scorers. TK and Boris rebuilt the innings from 2 for 2 to 40 for 2, when TK was bowled for 19 and Boris went soon after for 18. Milden scratched around with a few batsmen going for ducks but but some application from James Pipe (with a excellent 16), Whymark with 8 and James Harding with a a few more, Milden finished on 95 all out after 38 overs.
Milden were very much below par on a well prepared wicket but a slow outfield.
A splendid tea was laid on my Mrs Robinson, the table groaned with sausages, sausage rolls, a fine selection of sandwiches and some top notch home baked cake !!
Milden went to field with Skip giving a rousing team talk, soon Milden were into the wickets with TK and Sam picking up a couple. Whymark got into the 'Nard batting line up picking up 4 wickets. Milden had a tough challenge but Whymark removed the dangerous Barlow with his 4th and Milden applied a tight grip on the run rate.
Robinson bowled splendidly, picking up two good wickets and at the end it was Andrew Swinney and TK who bowled tightly to wrap up the innings when Swinney had the last batsmen caught by Robinson to finish off the 'Nard. Swinney bowled beautifully and maybe should of had more wickets but bowled with pace and guile.
Milden were at least 50 runs short of a competitive score, but fought back well in the field to really win this game. Valuable runs from Milden's tail really helped give Milden a chance but ultimately a fine fielding performance helped Milden coross the line.
James Pipe was awarded the beans for his crucial innings but Whymark ran him close, but it was well deserved for Pipe.
No game on Bank Holiday weekend next week,but maybe nets will be arranged.
Up the Meldes !!
Hunts County Division 5
Milden 189 for 9
Bardwell Academy 99 All Out
Milden welcomed a very young Bardwell Academy to Church Lane on a beautiful late summer afternoon. TK won the toss and had no hesitation in electing to bat after some great work by Sumes and Dickie Harding on the wicket in the week.
Milden started well with an opening partnership of 73 between Martin and Boris, Boris given LBW for 27. Harding strode to the crease and biffed a few to help accelerate the run rate, going eventually for 24, Martin Roffey was caught for 48 and another jug avoidance. TK had mixed the batting order up so Wright, Mason, Simmons, Aletti and Pipe all had a good bat but Milden looked like they may be a few short. However, with Pipe dismissed, Jossey re discovered his IPL form with a devastating 44 which included 4 sixes and 4 four’s. Milden finished on 189 for 9 in their allocated 40 overs.
Tea was taken and this week James Pipe ( with huge assistance from Mr & Mrs Pipe) delivered a resplendent tea, the table was groaning under the weight of sandwiches, the egg passed with flying colours, ham sandwiches were marvellous and the salmon and cream cheese sandwiches were hovered up in no time. Matt Jossey and Sheshi tucked into the home made chocolate cake whilst TK circled the quiche. Fantastic effort from the Pipe’s.
Bardwell went to bat with TK piling on the revs from the top end and Sheshi from the bottom. Sheshi struck first with a successful LBW appeal of the Bardwell skipper. TK had a couple of edges fly over the slips so he decided to turn to Pipe who bowled one of his most consistent spells of the season. James took an excellent caught and bowled and proceeded to pick up a very good 4 wickets for 28 runs. Matt Jossey, fresh from his cake extravaganza at tea time picked up a very good 3 for 17. Milden fielded sharply all day and with TK picking up the very last wicket, Bardwell were all out for 99.
Following a few beers at The Cock, Milden enjoyed a good curry at the Ballingdon Valley in the evening, thanks to everyone that continues to make these both enjoyable and successful.
Next week we have a friendly at home to Lavenham.
Milden 189 for 9
Bardwell Academy 99 All Out
Milden welcomed a very young Bardwell Academy to Church Lane on a beautiful late summer afternoon. TK won the toss and had no hesitation in electing to bat after some great work by Sumes and Dickie Harding on the wicket in the week.
Milden started well with an opening partnership of 73 between Martin and Boris, Boris given LBW for 27. Harding strode to the crease and biffed a few to help accelerate the run rate, going eventually for 24, Martin Roffey was caught for 48 and another jug avoidance. TK had mixed the batting order up so Wright, Mason, Simmons, Aletti and Pipe all had a good bat but Milden looked like they may be a few short. However, with Pipe dismissed, Jossey re discovered his IPL form with a devastating 44 which included 4 sixes and 4 four’s. Milden finished on 189 for 9 in their allocated 40 overs.
Tea was taken and this week James Pipe ( with huge assistance from Mr & Mrs Pipe) delivered a resplendent tea, the table was groaning under the weight of sandwiches, the egg passed with flying colours, ham sandwiches were marvellous and the salmon and cream cheese sandwiches were hovered up in no time. Matt Jossey and Sheshi tucked into the home made chocolate cake whilst TK circled the quiche. Fantastic effort from the Pipe’s.
Bardwell went to bat with TK piling on the revs from the top end and Sheshi from the bottom. Sheshi struck first with a successful LBW appeal of the Bardwell skipper. TK had a couple of edges fly over the slips so he decided to turn to Pipe who bowled one of his most consistent spells of the season. James took an excellent caught and bowled and proceeded to pick up a very good 4 wickets for 28 runs. Matt Jossey, fresh from his cake extravaganza at tea time picked up a very good 3 for 17. Milden fielded sharply all day and with TK picking up the very last wicket, Bardwell were all out for 99.
Following a few beers at The Cock, Milden enjoyed a good curry at the Ballingdon Valley in the evening, thanks to everyone that continues to make these both enjoyable and successful.
Next week we have a friendly at home to Lavenham.
Div 5 Hunts County League
Milden 199 for 7
Walsham le Willows 2nd XI 74 All out
On an ever improving day following a few showers, Milden welcomed Walsham le Willows to Church Lane in this league encounter. TK lost the toss and on a green looking strip, Milden were asked to bat.
Boris and Swinney opened with Boris going to a tidy catch for 1. Martin Roffey again batted well but once in, was caught of his nemesis ‘PK’. TK joined Swinney and the pair began to rebuild the innings until Swinney was caught for 14. Pat Humphries strode to the crease and seemed to be in a hurry as he dispatched the bowling in quick time, hitting nine 4’s in the process until he was adjudged LBW for 40. Debutant Andy Wright arrived at the crease having not played for over 15 years and supported well. TK accelerated the scoring, passing 50. Andy was bowled, Matt Jossey played an ‘English’ and accomplished innings, what ever happened to his IPL’ness ? TK went for 61 and Matthew for a great and quick fire 39. Sumo and Sam added further runs to close out the innings for 199 for 7.
Tea his week was served by Mrs Konopka and Andy’s girlfriend Jo Baker. What would we get ? TK paced nervously but Mrs K delivered a magnificent spread of delicious egg sandwiches, ham and cheese and pickle. TK thought that they were controversially cut into rectangles and de-crusted but the Walshm and Milden boys piled in. Quiche, hot sausages and pork pie were surrounded by home baked Lemon Drizzle cake, Chocolate and Raspberry tort, Jo Bakers brownies and Matt ‘I will have two, two, two’ Jossey’s favourite, Devonshire splits. Lots to go round for the supporters too and very well done, well done ladies, magic effort.
Milden waddled onto the field with Sam opening from the top end, first ball, removed the cultured J Wright, TK taking a good diving catch at slip. Both Matthew and in particular Sam, bowled really well, Mathew re arranging the furniture of Page and Sam bowling the ever dangerous Newman around his legs. Sam picked up a third with a well taken catch by Sumes at slip. James Pipe was introduced and bowled his best ever spell, well supported by Shashi. James clean bowled Knight and then had Gilbert well caught. Fantastic fielding by Swinney saw skipper H Gilbert well run out, Boris doing the rest by the stumps. James’ final wicket was snaffled by Andy Wright at cover, someone how he managed to hold onto a missile of a cover drive and take the catch, mobbed by his new found team mates at the end. Beans could have gone to a number of people, Pat for his innings changing 40, Andy for his magnificent catch or the ladies for a fabulous tea, but just for his excellent spell that ripped out the heart of Walsham’s batting it goes to Sam Whymark.
No league game next week but the local derby against Edwardstone for the John Bailey memorial cup!!
Up the Meldes, right up !!!!
Milden 199 for 7
Walsham le Willows 2nd XI 74 All out
On an ever improving day following a few showers, Milden welcomed Walsham le Willows to Church Lane in this league encounter. TK lost the toss and on a green looking strip, Milden were asked to bat.
Boris and Swinney opened with Boris going to a tidy catch for 1. Martin Roffey again batted well but once in, was caught of his nemesis ‘PK’. TK joined Swinney and the pair began to rebuild the innings until Swinney was caught for 14. Pat Humphries strode to the crease and seemed to be in a hurry as he dispatched the bowling in quick time, hitting nine 4’s in the process until he was adjudged LBW for 40. Debutant Andy Wright arrived at the crease having not played for over 15 years and supported well. TK accelerated the scoring, passing 50. Andy was bowled, Matt Jossey played an ‘English’ and accomplished innings, what ever happened to his IPL’ness ? TK went for 61 and Matthew for a great and quick fire 39. Sumo and Sam added further runs to close out the innings for 199 for 7.
Tea his week was served by Mrs Konopka and Andy’s girlfriend Jo Baker. What would we get ? TK paced nervously but Mrs K delivered a magnificent spread of delicious egg sandwiches, ham and cheese and pickle. TK thought that they were controversially cut into rectangles and de-crusted but the Walshm and Milden boys piled in. Quiche, hot sausages and pork pie were surrounded by home baked Lemon Drizzle cake, Chocolate and Raspberry tort, Jo Bakers brownies and Matt ‘I will have two, two, two’ Jossey’s favourite, Devonshire splits. Lots to go round for the supporters too and very well done, well done ladies, magic effort.
Milden waddled onto the field with Sam opening from the top end, first ball, removed the cultured J Wright, TK taking a good diving catch at slip. Both Matthew and in particular Sam, bowled really well, Mathew re arranging the furniture of Page and Sam bowling the ever dangerous Newman around his legs. Sam picked up a third with a well taken catch by Sumes at slip. James Pipe was introduced and bowled his best ever spell, well supported by Shashi. James clean bowled Knight and then had Gilbert well caught. Fantastic fielding by Swinney saw skipper H Gilbert well run out, Boris doing the rest by the stumps. James’ final wicket was snaffled by Andy Wright at cover, someone how he managed to hold onto a missile of a cover drive and take the catch, mobbed by his new found team mates at the end. Beans could have gone to a number of people, Pat for his innings changing 40, Andy for his magnificent catch or the ladies for a fabulous tea, but just for his excellent spell that ripped out the heart of Walsham’s batting it goes to Sam Whymark.
No league game next week but the local derby against Edwardstone for the John Bailey memorial cup!!
Up the Meldes, right up !!!!
Milden 200 for 3
Great Cornard CC 137 All out
Milden CC played away at Great Cornard on a warm and close afternoon. TK lost the toss and was asked to bat. Milden started well with Martin and Boris tapping runs off nicely and putting us in a good position. Martin was run out by Boris for 20 odd which brought Budgie 'the Coach' to the crease. Runs continued to flow at a steady rate but Boris fell again for the 29 leaving Milden in position when the next few overs would determine the game. Following last weeks disaster against Long Melford this was a real possibility. TK played himself in and with Budgie put on a large stand until Budgie was dismissed in the 40's. Milden continued to build a sizeable score on a good wicket, TK biffed the 'Nard bowling around and threw in a few proper crcikets shots also. He was eventually caught for 97 chasing his hundred in the last over but Tim Lucas with some great batting finished on 24 not out, enabling Milden to score 200 in their innings.
Following a nice tea of assorted sandwiches, homemade sauasgae rolls and cakes (but no egg sandwiches !!!!!) Milden took to the field.
Matthew Jossey removed the 'Nard Skipper with an excellent delivery spalying his off stump and some hostile bowling kept the Croanrd batsmen in check. Sam bowled the other opener with a great delivery, using his local knowledge to outfox the opener. It was left to James Pipe (unlucky not to pick up a wicket) and then 'The Sheikh' Sasidhar Aleti to claim 6 wickets, 'Nards nemesis. Some truly excellent catches were taken by Alex Cunningham, Andrew Simmons, Sam Whymark and James Pipe to dismiss Cornard for 137. Another notable performance was by James Wilton Ely for his keeping, tidy and with energy. Great all round team effort, attitude and commitment leaves Milden in a good position to push for more wins and highest ever league finish. Bring on Elveden with Mildens ambition to finish in 3rd spot and lay the foundations for next year. Up the Meldes !!!!!
Great Cornard CC 137 All out
Milden CC played away at Great Cornard on a warm and close afternoon. TK lost the toss and was asked to bat. Milden started well with Martin and Boris tapping runs off nicely and putting us in a good position. Martin was run out by Boris for 20 odd which brought Budgie 'the Coach' to the crease. Runs continued to flow at a steady rate but Boris fell again for the 29 leaving Milden in position when the next few overs would determine the game. Following last weeks disaster against Long Melford this was a real possibility. TK played himself in and with Budgie put on a large stand until Budgie was dismissed in the 40's. Milden continued to build a sizeable score on a good wicket, TK biffed the 'Nard bowling around and threw in a few proper crcikets shots also. He was eventually caught for 97 chasing his hundred in the last over but Tim Lucas with some great batting finished on 24 not out, enabling Milden to score 200 in their innings.
Following a nice tea of assorted sandwiches, homemade sauasgae rolls and cakes (but no egg sandwiches !!!!!) Milden took to the field.
Matthew Jossey removed the 'Nard Skipper with an excellent delivery spalying his off stump and some hostile bowling kept the Croanrd batsmen in check. Sam bowled the other opener with a great delivery, using his local knowledge to outfox the opener. It was left to James Pipe (unlucky not to pick up a wicket) and then 'The Sheikh' Sasidhar Aleti to claim 6 wickets, 'Nards nemesis. Some truly excellent catches were taken by Alex Cunningham, Andrew Simmons, Sam Whymark and James Pipe to dismiss Cornard for 137. Another notable performance was by James Wilton Ely for his keeping, tidy and with energy. Great all round team effort, attitude and commitment leaves Milden in a good position to push for more wins and highest ever league finish. Bring on Elveden with Mildens ambition to finish in 3rd spot and lay the foundations for next year. Up the Meldes !!!!!
Not enough runs but plenty of spirit
Milden 176 for 8 lost to
Long Melford 177 for 6
Milden travelled the short distance to Long Melford on a belter of a day. Skip Robinson was away so TK led the team. TK won the toss and had no hesitation in batting on a good track and fast outfield. Boris and Martin opened and set a very brisk run rate with an opening stand of 51 before Boris was bowled for 16. Budgie returned to the line up with some patient batting but when Roffey was run out for 29, TK and Budgie were patient in their approach but a long delay due to a Melford player wearing the cricket ball on his chin, Budgie next ball was caught for 10 and TK followed soon after for 22 trying to accelerate the innings. Pat Humphries and Matt Jossey started to really get stuck into the bowling before Pat departed for 25. Matt was living up to his IPL nickname with a couple of huge sixes out of the ground but he was unfortunately run out for 39. The rest of the batters tried to get as close to the 200 target set by TK but ended up on 176 for 8.
Tea was taken, a choice of ham, tuna and cheese sandwiches with a plate of egg sandwiches proudly displayed in the middle of the table. Only 6 out of 10 this week for those ones.
Milden wen t out to field and TK and Matt Jossey opened the bowling, bowling some tight lines. Matt had to leave the field after bowling 5 overs as he split his thumb, good luck with getting that fixed for next week. Sheshi joined the attack and was unlucky not to get opening bat Stuck. Melford were accumulating runs before TK turned to Pat who bowled their opening bat. Milden were finding wicket shard to come by, TK turned to James Pipe with the words of encouragement ‘if you bowl crap you’ll come off’ James ‘Magic Man’ Pipe opened with a first tidy over and then removed Stuck with Boris taking an excellent catch on the boundary. Next over he removed skipper D.Bigg, clean bowling him. Milden had their tails up and with some great support in the field, smelt an opportunity to win the game. TK replaced Pat and steamed in to pick up two wickets in two deliveries, the hat trick ball just missed the edge but Milden were fighting hard. However, Milden just could not get the few wickets they needed and Melford knocked off the final runs with 4 overs to spare.
A really great performance from Milden in the field, TK could not have asked for more. Milden knew they had not scored enough runs but overall the bating performance improved, wickets just went down at the wrong times. The beans this week go to James ‘Magic Man’ Pipe for stepping up to the plate, showing courage and conviction to take two really good wickets.
Next week, Milden are at home to Rougham in what will be another enthralling encounter I am sure. Up the Medles !!
Milden 176 for 8 lost to
Long Melford 177 for 6
Milden travelled the short distance to Long Melford on a belter of a day. Skip Robinson was away so TK led the team. TK won the toss and had no hesitation in batting on a good track and fast outfield. Boris and Martin opened and set a very brisk run rate with an opening stand of 51 before Boris was bowled for 16. Budgie returned to the line up with some patient batting but when Roffey was run out for 29, TK and Budgie were patient in their approach but a long delay due to a Melford player wearing the cricket ball on his chin, Budgie next ball was caught for 10 and TK followed soon after for 22 trying to accelerate the innings. Pat Humphries and Matt Jossey started to really get stuck into the bowling before Pat departed for 25. Matt was living up to his IPL nickname with a couple of huge sixes out of the ground but he was unfortunately run out for 39. The rest of the batters tried to get as close to the 200 target set by TK but ended up on 176 for 8.
Tea was taken, a choice of ham, tuna and cheese sandwiches with a plate of egg sandwiches proudly displayed in the middle of the table. Only 6 out of 10 this week for those ones.
Milden wen t out to field and TK and Matt Jossey opened the bowling, bowling some tight lines. Matt had to leave the field after bowling 5 overs as he split his thumb, good luck with getting that fixed for next week. Sheshi joined the attack and was unlucky not to get opening bat Stuck. Melford were accumulating runs before TK turned to Pat who bowled their opening bat. Milden were finding wicket shard to come by, TK turned to James Pipe with the words of encouragement ‘if you bowl crap you’ll come off’ James ‘Magic Man’ Pipe opened with a first tidy over and then removed Stuck with Boris taking an excellent catch on the boundary. Next over he removed skipper D.Bigg, clean bowling him. Milden had their tails up and with some great support in the field, smelt an opportunity to win the game. TK replaced Pat and steamed in to pick up two wickets in two deliveries, the hat trick ball just missed the edge but Milden were fighting hard. However, Milden just could not get the few wickets they needed and Melford knocked off the final runs with 4 overs to spare.
A really great performance from Milden in the field, TK could not have asked for more. Milden knew they had not scored enough runs but overall the bating performance improved, wickets just went down at the wrong times. The beans this week go to James ‘Magic Man’ Pipe for stepping up to the plate, showing courage and conviction to take two really good wickets.
Next week, Milden are at home to Rougham in what will be another enthralling encounter I am sure. Up the Medles !!
Milden promotion push gathers pace.
Great Cornard 113 All Out
Milden 116 for 5
Skipper Robinson returned this week to win the toss and invited Great Cornard to bat on an overcast day in this Hunts County Division 5 encounter. Milden started well, bowling tightly against their local rivals. TK was unlucky not to pick up a wicket as Barlow edged one to slip but it was Whymark who made the breakthrough cleaning bowling opener Lewis. Aletti was introduced and he picked up from last week with a fine line and length. Robinson supported very well from the Presidents end and bowled as best as he has all season, unlucky not to take wickets. Aletti proceeded to rip through the ‘Nard middle order, well supported by the Milden fielders finishing with figures of 5 for 14. Whymark and Humphreys were brought back into the attack and both bowled well to pick up further wickets to finish with 3 and 2 respectively. Great Cornard were dismissed for 113.
Tea was taken and this week it was Mrs Lucas in the hot seat, however, Mrs L proceeded to lay on a fantastic spread, the table groaning under the weight of food. TK prowled around the egg sandwiches which were magnificent in the colour, texture and taste !! These super sandwiches was complimented by tuna and cucumber, cheese and ham and tomato, further delights in the form of sausage rolls, pork pies and fine cakes made this an epic feast. A late entry by Mrs Jossey in the form of spicy ‘beef cotlets’ rounded off this splendid fare, maybe an all Indian cricket tea for the future ?
Milden opened the inning with Roffey and Boris and after a good first over were bogged down by tight bowling from Barlow and Docherty. After 10 overs Milden had wickets in hand but were chasing at less than two an over. Boris departed for 7 and Lucas provided some impetus to the innings but the pitch displayed some uneven bounce and Tim shelled one to a good catch at shot leg. Konopka and Roffey moved the score along but TK was run out for 8 and the incoming Humphreys was soon also back in the hutch following some lusty blows for 7. Roffey continued to accumulate runs but Milden were fearing that they may grasp defeat from the jaws of victory. Jossey came to the crease and after playing himself in with a few wafts at the ball, began to dispatch the ‘Nard bowling around the ground. When Roffey fell for 48, Jossey continued to marshal the lower order and pile on the runs. A four and a six drew the scores level and Matthew finished off the innings with another fine four.
So Milden now move up to third in the table following consecutive victories and will look to dent the title hopes of second placed Long Melford next week. The batting will need to improve both in pace and consistency but Milden have the ingredients of making an effective promotion push.
Nets will be run on Thursday until 7.55pm as England kick off at 8pm so a quick net and back to the Horse to watch the football. Up the Meldes!! (and England)
Great Cornard 113 All Out
Milden 116 for 5
Skipper Robinson returned this week to win the toss and invited Great Cornard to bat on an overcast day in this Hunts County Division 5 encounter. Milden started well, bowling tightly against their local rivals. TK was unlucky not to pick up a wicket as Barlow edged one to slip but it was Whymark who made the breakthrough cleaning bowling opener Lewis. Aletti was introduced and he picked up from last week with a fine line and length. Robinson supported very well from the Presidents end and bowled as best as he has all season, unlucky not to take wickets. Aletti proceeded to rip through the ‘Nard middle order, well supported by the Milden fielders finishing with figures of 5 for 14. Whymark and Humphreys were brought back into the attack and both bowled well to pick up further wickets to finish with 3 and 2 respectively. Great Cornard were dismissed for 113.
Tea was taken and this week it was Mrs Lucas in the hot seat, however, Mrs L proceeded to lay on a fantastic spread, the table groaning under the weight of food. TK prowled around the egg sandwiches which were magnificent in the colour, texture and taste !! These super sandwiches was complimented by tuna and cucumber, cheese and ham and tomato, further delights in the form of sausage rolls, pork pies and fine cakes made this an epic feast. A late entry by Mrs Jossey in the form of spicy ‘beef cotlets’ rounded off this splendid fare, maybe an all Indian cricket tea for the future ?
Milden opened the inning with Roffey and Boris and after a good first over were bogged down by tight bowling from Barlow and Docherty. After 10 overs Milden had wickets in hand but were chasing at less than two an over. Boris departed for 7 and Lucas provided some impetus to the innings but the pitch displayed some uneven bounce and Tim shelled one to a good catch at shot leg. Konopka and Roffey moved the score along but TK was run out for 8 and the incoming Humphreys was soon also back in the hutch following some lusty blows for 7. Roffey continued to accumulate runs but Milden were fearing that they may grasp defeat from the jaws of victory. Jossey came to the crease and after playing himself in with a few wafts at the ball, began to dispatch the ‘Nard bowling around the ground. When Roffey fell for 48, Jossey continued to marshal the lower order and pile on the runs. A four and a six drew the scores level and Matthew finished off the innings with another fine four.
So Milden now move up to third in the table following consecutive victories and will look to dent the title hopes of second placed Long Melford next week. The batting will need to improve both in pace and consistency but Milden have the ingredients of making an effective promotion push.
Nets will be run on Thursday until 7.55pm as England kick off at 8pm so a quick net and back to the Horse to watch the football. Up the Meldes!! (and England)
Milden secure 20 points to keep the promotion challenge alive !!!
Milden CC 176 All Out
Elveden CC 136 All Out
TK stood in this week as ‘Skip’, winning the toss and having no hesitation to bat on a warm and humid day at Elveden. The hosts only had 9 players, calling up a couple of youngsters. Milden’s early confidence seemed to drain away as Elveden bowled some tight overs with Boris and Martin crawling at 1 an over for the first 10. However, they soon picked up with some good running and taking the game to the Elveden bowlers. Martin went for 12 and Lucas put on a quick fire 25 to help kick start the innings before being stumped. Boris was next to go after hitting some lusty blows for 44 and TK and Pat continued the good work before Pat was bowled by the dangerous Flack for 6. Matthew and TK began to bat with some patience but selected their attacking shots to get full value from the bad balls. Matthew went for 17 and the rest of the Mildeners supported TK till the 38th over when he was bowled for 56. Milden were all out in the last over for 176.
Tea was taken and Milden reflected on their total, feeling that they were 30 runs short, especially against the 9 men of Elveden. The bar had been set high this year for teas and Elveden delivered their tea with egg sandwiches,coronation chicken hot sausages and cakes a plenty, very nice indeed.
TK had his usual team talk (rant) at the team about fielding sharply and taking catches and the boys continued the energy from last week with some sharp fielding and plenty of voice. TK removed the opener, JWE taking a great catch behind the stumps, low to his right. Elveden had a game plan and only needed 4 an over and were always up with the run rate for the first 15 overs. However, an excellent spell by Jossey saw him take 3 wickets and remove the dangerous Elveden skipper Rodic. TK picked up another wicket from a superb diving catch by Swinney, the ball was not only snaffled by Swinney in his finger tips with an epic effort, but he had just also picked up ‘the beans’ for that stunning catch. Bowlers were rotated and soon Elveden lost more wickets with Sheshi picking up two following a fine spell that only conceded 13 runs. Pipe, Humphries, Swinney and Lucas all bowled well, containing the stubborn Elveden last wicket partnership and unlucky to not pick up some wickets. With rain forecast and on the horizon, TK wrapped up the innings with Pat taking the catch at Mid-Off.
A good win against Elveden and our first at their ground. Beans went to Swinney for his magnificent catch. Milden now up to 4th in the league have a great chance to consolidate their position and maybe push for a top 3 place. We will have to really capitalize on our batting opportunities and bat teams out of the game when we have the chance, but our fielding and bowling is consistent and a force. Thanks to Richard Robinson for making the trip to watch us at Elveden and put in a good umpiring and scoring stint. Long way to come but went a long way with the boys.
Great Cornard at home next week. If you can come and support the boys that would be greatly appreciated…. Up the Meldes !!
Milden CC 176 All Out
Elveden CC 136 All Out
TK stood in this week as ‘Skip’, winning the toss and having no hesitation to bat on a warm and humid day at Elveden. The hosts only had 9 players, calling up a couple of youngsters. Milden’s early confidence seemed to drain away as Elveden bowled some tight overs with Boris and Martin crawling at 1 an over for the first 10. However, they soon picked up with some good running and taking the game to the Elveden bowlers. Martin went for 12 and Lucas put on a quick fire 25 to help kick start the innings before being stumped. Boris was next to go after hitting some lusty blows for 44 and TK and Pat continued the good work before Pat was bowled by the dangerous Flack for 6. Matthew and TK began to bat with some patience but selected their attacking shots to get full value from the bad balls. Matthew went for 17 and the rest of the Mildeners supported TK till the 38th over when he was bowled for 56. Milden were all out in the last over for 176.
Tea was taken and Milden reflected on their total, feeling that they were 30 runs short, especially against the 9 men of Elveden. The bar had been set high this year for teas and Elveden delivered their tea with egg sandwiches,coronation chicken hot sausages and cakes a plenty, very nice indeed.
TK had his usual team talk (rant) at the team about fielding sharply and taking catches and the boys continued the energy from last week with some sharp fielding and plenty of voice. TK removed the opener, JWE taking a great catch behind the stumps, low to his right. Elveden had a game plan and only needed 4 an over and were always up with the run rate for the first 15 overs. However, an excellent spell by Jossey saw him take 3 wickets and remove the dangerous Elveden skipper Rodic. TK picked up another wicket from a superb diving catch by Swinney, the ball was not only snaffled by Swinney in his finger tips with an epic effort, but he had just also picked up ‘the beans’ for that stunning catch. Bowlers were rotated and soon Elveden lost more wickets with Sheshi picking up two following a fine spell that only conceded 13 runs. Pipe, Humphries, Swinney and Lucas all bowled well, containing the stubborn Elveden last wicket partnership and unlucky to not pick up some wickets. With rain forecast and on the horizon, TK wrapped up the innings with Pat taking the catch at Mid-Off.
A good win against Elveden and our first at their ground. Beans went to Swinney for his magnificent catch. Milden now up to 4th in the league have a great chance to consolidate their position and maybe push for a top 3 place. We will have to really capitalize on our batting opportunities and bat teams out of the game when we have the chance, but our fielding and bowling is consistent and a force. Thanks to Richard Robinson for making the trip to watch us at Elveden and put in a good umpiring and scoring stint. Long way to come but went a long way with the boys.
Great Cornard at home next week. If you can come and support the boys that would be greatly appreciated…. Up the Meldes !!
Stowupland 2nd XI 149 for 8
Milden 112 for 9
Milden lost by 37 runs
On a beautiful June afternoon, skip won the toss and invited Stowupalnd to bat. The ground was resplendent in the Summer sun following much hard work from Rich Harding and other Mildeners to get the strip right for the game. We had some good support from some of the locals and players families which is always great to see.
Konopka and Jossey started well, keeping the run rate below 2 an over before Jossey struck with a good LBW appeal. Stowupland were finding it hard to get runs and after 20 overs were 36 for 1 with Milden bowling some tight lines and fielding very well. The introduction of Whymark brought a couple of wickets and Robinson worked his magic from the Presidents end picking up 4 wickets with both Cherrington and Harding snaffling up some top drawer catches. After 40 overs Milden were please with the energy and commitment in the field, a marked improvement on the Walsham game but felt that maybe we had given our visitors 20 to 30 runs too many when on the rack. Nevertheless a great performance in the field.
At tea, Mrs Robinson laid on a sight to behold, egg sandwiches flew past the quality control test, players tucked into cheese soufflés, cocktail sausages, tuna and ham sandwiches to compliment the eggs and enough cakes and brownies to shake a pointy stump at. Magnificent ! Them both teams were treated to an additional treat when Mr Harding senior buzzed the ground in his stunt plane and treated all to an aerobatic display of barrel rolls and loop the loops, not many teams can better that this year !!
Milden went out to bat with Boris and Swinney opening, Stowupland were tight n the field and the openers became bogged down in a repeat of the first innings. Boris was eventually bowled by the wily Sturgeon for 16 and Humphries came to the crease and tried to accelerate the innings. Swinney was run out for 23 and the rest of the Milden batting line up came and went chasing a required run rate of 8 runs an over. For a moment the Stow’s were worried that Milden could pull off a miracle but when Pat went for 23 it looked a hard task. However, some guts and good running got Milden to 112 for 9 off the 40 overs.
Milden will learn from this defeat that could have taken us third and put a marker down for this season but we consolidate in 5th and in striking distance of a top 3 finish. Next week the Mildeners travel to Eleveden.
After the game, Milden decamped to the Brent Eleigh Cock for splendid and cold Staropramen, joined by wives, girlfriends and friends of the club. This followed with a trip to Memsaab for a splendid curry and the first this season in the ‘curry club series’ run by TK. 19 in total were there to see Skip give this weeks beans to Rich Harding for his splendid catch and Sumo for showing some class and energy as 12th man. Big thank you must also go to all those that continue to help with the ground with many positive comments from our visitors today. Up the Meldes !!!!
Milden 112 for 9
Milden lost by 37 runs
On a beautiful June afternoon, skip won the toss and invited Stowupalnd to bat. The ground was resplendent in the Summer sun following much hard work from Rich Harding and other Mildeners to get the strip right for the game. We had some good support from some of the locals and players families which is always great to see.
Konopka and Jossey started well, keeping the run rate below 2 an over before Jossey struck with a good LBW appeal. Stowupland were finding it hard to get runs and after 20 overs were 36 for 1 with Milden bowling some tight lines and fielding very well. The introduction of Whymark brought a couple of wickets and Robinson worked his magic from the Presidents end picking up 4 wickets with both Cherrington and Harding snaffling up some top drawer catches. After 40 overs Milden were please with the energy and commitment in the field, a marked improvement on the Walsham game but felt that maybe we had given our visitors 20 to 30 runs too many when on the rack. Nevertheless a great performance in the field.
At tea, Mrs Robinson laid on a sight to behold, egg sandwiches flew past the quality control test, players tucked into cheese soufflés, cocktail sausages, tuna and ham sandwiches to compliment the eggs and enough cakes and brownies to shake a pointy stump at. Magnificent ! Them both teams were treated to an additional treat when Mr Harding senior buzzed the ground in his stunt plane and treated all to an aerobatic display of barrel rolls and loop the loops, not many teams can better that this year !!
Milden went out to bat with Boris and Swinney opening, Stowupland were tight n the field and the openers became bogged down in a repeat of the first innings. Boris was eventually bowled by the wily Sturgeon for 16 and Humphries came to the crease and tried to accelerate the innings. Swinney was run out for 23 and the rest of the Milden batting line up came and went chasing a required run rate of 8 runs an over. For a moment the Stow’s were worried that Milden could pull off a miracle but when Pat went for 23 it looked a hard task. However, some guts and good running got Milden to 112 for 9 off the 40 overs.
Milden will learn from this defeat that could have taken us third and put a marker down for this season but we consolidate in 5th and in striking distance of a top 3 finish. Next week the Mildeners travel to Eleveden.
After the game, Milden decamped to the Brent Eleigh Cock for splendid and cold Staropramen, joined by wives, girlfriends and friends of the club. This followed with a trip to Memsaab for a splendid curry and the first this season in the ‘curry club series’ run by TK. 19 in total were there to see Skip give this weeks beans to Rich Harding for his splendid catch and Sumo for showing some class and energy as 12th man. Big thank you must also go to all those that continue to help with the ground with many positive comments from our visitors today. Up the Meldes !!!!
Milden secure first win of the season
Milden 238 for 7
Walsham Le Willows 182 for 7, Milden won by 56 runs
Milden travelled this week to Walsham Le Willows for this Division 5 league encounter. With some promise shown against Worlington, the Melde’s were keen to get a win on the board. Skip won the toss and on a warm day and a good track Milden opened with Boris and Tim Lucas. The chaps got off to a flyer and put on an opening first wicket stand of 96. Some intelligent running and dispatching poor balls meant that Tim and Boris were setting a run rate of nearly 7 an over. Lucas was adjudged LBW incorrectly after he hit the ball and was sportingly returned to the crease by the Walsham boys, well done chaps.
Lucas eventually perished on 40 and Boris for 48. Players came and went with Humphries putting on an elegant and big hitting 57 and other notable contributions came from Matt Jossey (15,) . With overs running out Rob Nicholson (24) and Sheshi (26)put on a fine 50 run partnership to give Milden a good total to defend, some good running and lusty blows meant Milden finished on 238 for 7. Skipper of Walsham, Gilbert, took 5 wickets.
Tea was taken and the hosts, Walsham, had laid on a fine spread. Egg sandwiches were magic, complimented by other classic fillings such as ham and cheese. But wait, pop corn chicken, chicken strips and sausage rolls, epic. Well done to Walsham for laying on a fine spread.
Milden went to field with TK and Jossey opening with some tight bowling, TK removing the opener with a catch at short leg and Matthew cleaned bowled Jones at number 3. Walsham then dug in and began to accumulate runs at a good rate with Wright and Newman building a good partnership. Milden let Newman off the hook three times with dropped catches although Skipper Robinson’s was very tough. James Wilton Ely really earnt his medals with a another gutsy and skilled keeping performance when heads in the field went down. Humphrey was introduced into the attach and eventually, one lusty blow too many by Newman was snaffled in the deep by TK and Milden began to drag the game back. Sheshi accounted for opener Wright by removing his middle stump and Milden tightened the screw to dry up the runs. James Pipe picked up his first wicket for Milden by clean bowling Lash (M) and TK picked up his second wicket with the final ball of the over, well caught by Skip.
A great 20 points for Milden. The Meldes played well in patches but need to really sharpen up their catching and fielding if they are to make an effort towards promotion but currently sit in 4th place in the table. The ‘Beans’ were awarded to Lucas for his good batting performance, noted really at the pace at which he got them at, well done Tim.
Next week there is no game but in the 1st June Milden are at home to Rougham, TK will be running another curry club after the game so get your names in early.
Milden 238 for 7
Walsham Le Willows 182 for 7, Milden won by 56 runs
Milden travelled this week to Walsham Le Willows for this Division 5 league encounter. With some promise shown against Worlington, the Melde’s were keen to get a win on the board. Skip won the toss and on a warm day and a good track Milden opened with Boris and Tim Lucas. The chaps got off to a flyer and put on an opening first wicket stand of 96. Some intelligent running and dispatching poor balls meant that Tim and Boris were setting a run rate of nearly 7 an over. Lucas was adjudged LBW incorrectly after he hit the ball and was sportingly returned to the crease by the Walsham boys, well done chaps.
Lucas eventually perished on 40 and Boris for 48. Players came and went with Humphries putting on an elegant and big hitting 57 and other notable contributions came from Matt Jossey (15,) . With overs running out Rob Nicholson (24) and Sheshi (26)put on a fine 50 run partnership to give Milden a good total to defend, some good running and lusty blows meant Milden finished on 238 for 7. Skipper of Walsham, Gilbert, took 5 wickets.
Tea was taken and the hosts, Walsham, had laid on a fine spread. Egg sandwiches were magic, complimented by other classic fillings such as ham and cheese. But wait, pop corn chicken, chicken strips and sausage rolls, epic. Well done to Walsham for laying on a fine spread.
Milden went to field with TK and Jossey opening with some tight bowling, TK removing the opener with a catch at short leg and Matthew cleaned bowled Jones at number 3. Walsham then dug in and began to accumulate runs at a good rate with Wright and Newman building a good partnership. Milden let Newman off the hook three times with dropped catches although Skipper Robinson’s was very tough. James Wilton Ely really earnt his medals with a another gutsy and skilled keeping performance when heads in the field went down. Humphrey was introduced into the attach and eventually, one lusty blow too many by Newman was snaffled in the deep by TK and Milden began to drag the game back. Sheshi accounted for opener Wright by removing his middle stump and Milden tightened the screw to dry up the runs. James Pipe picked up his first wicket for Milden by clean bowling Lash (M) and TK picked up his second wicket with the final ball of the over, well caught by Skip.
A great 20 points for Milden. The Meldes played well in patches but need to really sharpen up their catching and fielding if they are to make an effort towards promotion but currently sit in 4th place in the table. The ‘Beans’ were awarded to Lucas for his good batting performance, noted really at the pace at which he got them at, well done Tim.
Next week there is no game but in the 1st June Milden are at home to Rougham, TK will be running another curry club after the game so get your names in early.
Milden lose season opener.
Worlington 193 for 9
Milden 163 All Out
Worlington win by 30 runs.
Milden travelled for the league season opener to Worlington on a bright Sunday afternoon. A few players were late, so Boris won the toss and decided to field. Milden opened with TK and Matthew on a great bating strip, but some seam and swing being afforded to the bowlers.
TK was first to strike, removing the previously destructive batsman “ Boom Boom” Akram LBW. TK and Matthew bowled some tight lines but the young Baugh accumulated runs at a good rate. Milden were faced with a long afternoon in the field but Sheshi removed the no.3 which provided some impetus to the Mildeners. Some good wicket keeping and tight fielding began to pay dividends with the run rate slowing for Worlington but not before Baugh reached his 50. The introduction of Robinson proved to be the catalyst for Milden to take wickets with Skip removing Baugh for 89 and the middle order cheaply, skip finishing with 3 wickets. Humphries was also introduced and picked up a couple of wickets, meaning Milden had dragged back the run rate to a more respectable 4 and over. TK picked up another wicket and Worlington finished on 193 for 9. Great effort by Milden in the field to drag this one back on a great wicket.
Tea was taken and the bar had ben set high by Worlington with excellent egg sandwiches, complimented by other filings, sausage rolls and cakes a plenty.
Milden cam out to bat but started slowly and were soon well behind the required run rate with 20 overs gone. Boris departed for 6 and Sumo followed with a duck. TK and Martin Roffey took up the mantle of chasing down the runs and looked to be in with a shout. TK went for one heave too many and was caught for 28, Roffey passed 50 and Milden were always behind the run rate needing 12 an over in the last 9. Tough task for messers Humphries, Jossey, Lucas and Metha but some lusty blows always meant this chase went to the last over. Young Witish finished with 7 wickets, a star in the making for WorlingtonSkip ensued we accumulated another batting point but in the end Milden fell 30 short of the target.
This was a game that Milden lost themselves rather than were soundly beaten. Big hats off to the Worlington Skip who recalled Martin Roffey back after he was given LBW but had actually hit it, showed some class. Best wishes also go to the Worlington keeper who looked like he had dislocated his shoulder, all the very best.
Milden will learn from this and will look to see how to pace an innings but overall a great effort from all parties. Some great performances from JWE behind the stumps and Skip for some tidy bowling but the beans this week really go to Martin Roffey for scoring an excellent 78 and keeping the run chase alive.
Worlington 193 for 9
Milden 163 All Out
Worlington win by 30 runs.
Milden travelled for the league season opener to Worlington on a bright Sunday afternoon. A few players were late, so Boris won the toss and decided to field. Milden opened with TK and Matthew on a great bating strip, but some seam and swing being afforded to the bowlers.
TK was first to strike, removing the previously destructive batsman “ Boom Boom” Akram LBW. TK and Matthew bowled some tight lines but the young Baugh accumulated runs at a good rate. Milden were faced with a long afternoon in the field but Sheshi removed the no.3 which provided some impetus to the Mildeners. Some good wicket keeping and tight fielding began to pay dividends with the run rate slowing for Worlington but not before Baugh reached his 50. The introduction of Robinson proved to be the catalyst for Milden to take wickets with Skip removing Baugh for 89 and the middle order cheaply, skip finishing with 3 wickets. Humphries was also introduced and picked up a couple of wickets, meaning Milden had dragged back the run rate to a more respectable 4 and over. TK picked up another wicket and Worlington finished on 193 for 9. Great effort by Milden in the field to drag this one back on a great wicket.
Tea was taken and the bar had ben set high by Worlington with excellent egg sandwiches, complimented by other filings, sausage rolls and cakes a plenty.
Milden cam out to bat but started slowly and were soon well behind the required run rate with 20 overs gone. Boris departed for 6 and Sumo followed with a duck. TK and Martin Roffey took up the mantle of chasing down the runs and looked to be in with a shout. TK went for one heave too many and was caught for 28, Roffey passed 50 and Milden were always behind the run rate needing 12 an over in the last 9. Tough task for messers Humphries, Jossey, Lucas and Metha but some lusty blows always meant this chase went to the last over. Young Witish finished with 7 wickets, a star in the making for WorlingtonSkip ensued we accumulated another batting point but in the end Milden fell 30 short of the target.
This was a game that Milden lost themselves rather than were soundly beaten. Big hats off to the Worlington Skip who recalled Martin Roffey back after he was given LBW but had actually hit it, showed some class. Best wishes also go to the Worlington keeper who looked like he had dislocated his shoulder, all the very best.
Milden will learn from this and will look to see how to pace an innings but overall a great effort from all parties. Some great performances from JWE behind the stumps and Skip for some tidy bowling but the beans this week really go to Martin Roffey for scoring an excellent 78 and keeping the run chase alive.
Milden win penultimate league game.
Milden welcomed Rougham for their last league home game of the season. Fielding a good side, Skip lost the toss and Rougham elected to bat. Our visitors started slowly on a good track with Konopka and Sheshi bowling some tight lines, restricting the visitors to 20 odd runs after 10 overs. Skip rotated the bowling and Humphries and Lucas made the breakthrough removing Barrett and Wood. Lucas went to take three wickets which included a sharp catch from Sumo. Sheshi picked up another wicket and TK removed Hurst with a nice delivery, clean bowling their top scorer. A much sharper fielding performance resulted in Rougham finishing on 152 after their 40 overs.
A splendid tea was laid on by Mrs and Ms Philbedge, the tea table being weighed down with magnificent egg sandwiches, a selection of others, sausagae rolls, pizza and splendid cakes. Everyone tucked in TK notably hogging the egg sandwiches.
Post tea, Milden batted and openers Budgie and Boris started well but were soon back in the hutch for 5 & 7 respectively. Harding knocked up a quick 20 before being bowled and TK made 34 before he frsutratingly edged to slip trying to heave one. Humphries was in great form and Tabs also contributed with a smart 27, including a nice six. Tabs went to a catch and Sumo joined Pat to wrap up the innings with a superb 4 through the covers. Pat finished on 34 not out. 20 points for Milden against a spirited and sporting Rougham XI.
Milden and Rougham retired to the Brent Eleigh Cock for some beers and were joined by others for a few beers and a curry in Lavenham. The curry went down very well and will be a permanent fixture through the close season and next.
We did not select a beans winners but Pat would probably win it for his 34 not out and shuttle runs from point to point when the left/right handed batsmen were in for Rougham.
Milden travel to Walsham le Willows next week, be great to se a few supporting the team, i hear they have a good bar.
Milden welcomed Rougham for their last league home game of the season. Fielding a good side, Skip lost the toss and Rougham elected to bat. Our visitors started slowly on a good track with Konopka and Sheshi bowling some tight lines, restricting the visitors to 20 odd runs after 10 overs. Skip rotated the bowling and Humphries and Lucas made the breakthrough removing Barrett and Wood. Lucas went to take three wickets which included a sharp catch from Sumo. Sheshi picked up another wicket and TK removed Hurst with a nice delivery, clean bowling their top scorer. A much sharper fielding performance resulted in Rougham finishing on 152 after their 40 overs.
A splendid tea was laid on by Mrs and Ms Philbedge, the tea table being weighed down with magnificent egg sandwiches, a selection of others, sausagae rolls, pizza and splendid cakes. Everyone tucked in TK notably hogging the egg sandwiches.
Post tea, Milden batted and openers Budgie and Boris started well but were soon back in the hutch for 5 & 7 respectively. Harding knocked up a quick 20 before being bowled and TK made 34 before he frsutratingly edged to slip trying to heave one. Humphries was in great form and Tabs also contributed with a smart 27, including a nice six. Tabs went to a catch and Sumo joined Pat to wrap up the innings with a superb 4 through the covers. Pat finished on 34 not out. 20 points for Milden against a spirited and sporting Rougham XI.
Milden and Rougham retired to the Brent Eleigh Cock for some beers and were joined by others for a few beers and a curry in Lavenham. The curry went down very well and will be a permanent fixture through the close season and next.
We did not select a beans winners but Pat would probably win it for his 34 not out and shuttle runs from point to point when the left/right handed batsmen were in for Rougham.
Milden travel to Walsham le Willows next week, be great to se a few supporting the team, i hear they have a good bar.
Milden just lose high scoring encounter.
Sorry for the tardiness in producing match reports.
Milden hosted high flying East Bergholt Academy on a lovely day with the pitch looking resplendent from the efforts of Masters and Whymark. TK was Skipper for the day and won the toss and asked the young Berghlot team to bat. This looked like a poor decision as the opening batters took to the TK and Jossey with the score rattling along at 8 an over, mainly due to the good pitch and fast outfield. After 10 overs, Bergholt whilst going arial, stood at 80 odd for no loss. TK threw the ball to Whymark who produced a fine spell of bowling taking three terrific wickets to drag Milden into the game. Some fantastic fielding from Cherrington and Humphries kept the home side bouyant in the field. Dakers bowled a fine spell, snaffling a wicket and Lucas bowled tidily as well. TK and Jossey came in for the last 10 overs with TK picking up a couple of wickets and Whymark grabbed another to finish with four wickets and Bergholt ended up on 214 for 7.
A great tea was provided by Mrs Cherrington (senior and Junior) with excellent selection of sandwiches (egg was on the agenda) and cakes, finished off with squash and hot tea.
Milden began their innings slowly with Budgie and Boris opening up and taking Milden to 40 for no loss before Budgie was dismissed. Pat came in and went after scooping a catch to point and TK frustrated by the slow bowling edged to the keeper for 6. Cherrington produced a couple of lusty blows but was also dismissed and Milden unfortunately again were looking down the barrel due to a poor batting performance. Thomas, Sumo ( who had taken a blow on his elbow from Jossey in the nets beforehand all departure before Dakers and Jossey began to repair the damage. Jossey hitting the ball to all parts. Dakers and Matthew began to push the runs and Milden began to believe. Unfortunately a mix up ended in Dakers being run out and the pavilion taking a whack by the frustrated batsman. Jossey continued to biff the bowling and in the end was supported by Sam Whymark. With the game going into the last over, Milden needed 19, however a few lusty blows were not enough and left Milden 11 short. Matthew finished with 76 and Whymark with 17 not out.
If the middle order would of fired and we had paced our innings better, i am sure that we would of won this game but credit goes to East Bergholt who fielded and bowled well in particular with some youngsters stepping up to the plate for them. Good luck for next season.
Final note, good to see Will Ward supporting the boys and helping to sort drinks out and David Lamming also for taking some photos and supporting the lads. Whilst not everyone can play, club spirit is important and it was nice to see everyone helping out and showing what Milden CC is all about. Beans went to Whymark for his great bowling display.
Nets on Thursday at 6.30pm so please make every effort to attend as well as practice we can do a few jobs up the ground. TK
Milden hosted high flying East Bergholt Academy on a lovely day with the pitch looking resplendent from the efforts of Masters and Whymark. TK was Skipper for the day and won the toss and asked the young Berghlot team to bat. This looked like a poor decision as the opening batters took to the TK and Jossey with the score rattling along at 8 an over, mainly due to the good pitch and fast outfield. After 10 overs, Bergholt whilst going arial, stood at 80 odd for no loss. TK threw the ball to Whymark who produced a fine spell of bowling taking three terrific wickets to drag Milden into the game. Some fantastic fielding from Cherrington and Humphries kept the home side bouyant in the field. Dakers bowled a fine spell, snaffling a wicket and Lucas bowled tidily as well. TK and Jossey came in for the last 10 overs with TK picking up a couple of wickets and Whymark grabbed another to finish with four wickets and Bergholt ended up on 214 for 7.
A great tea was provided by Mrs Cherrington (senior and Junior) with excellent selection of sandwiches (egg was on the agenda) and cakes, finished off with squash and hot tea.
Milden began their innings slowly with Budgie and Boris opening up and taking Milden to 40 for no loss before Budgie was dismissed. Pat came in and went after scooping a catch to point and TK frustrated by the slow bowling edged to the keeper for 6. Cherrington produced a couple of lusty blows but was also dismissed and Milden unfortunately again were looking down the barrel due to a poor batting performance. Thomas, Sumo ( who had taken a blow on his elbow from Jossey in the nets beforehand all departure before Dakers and Jossey began to repair the damage. Jossey hitting the ball to all parts. Dakers and Matthew began to push the runs and Milden began to believe. Unfortunately a mix up ended in Dakers being run out and the pavilion taking a whack by the frustrated batsman. Jossey continued to biff the bowling and in the end was supported by Sam Whymark. With the game going into the last over, Milden needed 19, however a few lusty blows were not enough and left Milden 11 short. Matthew finished with 76 and Whymark with 17 not out.
If the middle order would of fired and we had paced our innings better, i am sure that we would of won this game but credit goes to East Bergholt who fielded and bowled well in particular with some youngsters stepping up to the plate for them. Good luck for next season.
Final note, good to see Will Ward supporting the boys and helping to sort drinks out and David Lamming also for taking some photos and supporting the lads. Whilst not everyone can play, club spirit is important and it was nice to see everyone helping out and showing what Milden CC is all about. Beans went to Whymark for his great bowling display.
Nets on Thursday at 6.30pm so please make every effort to attend as well as practice we can do a few jobs up the ground. TK
Milden rough up Rougham in great victory
Assured bowling and fielding with an inspired batting display from Richard Harding ensured a quick and easy victory for Milden.
The skipper won the toss (for the first time in 2013) and put the Rougham team into bat. Their openers started brightly but were soon pegged back by birthday boy Whymark and a hungover Swiney. Jaded they might have been from the previous night's exploits - but they peppered the Rougham batsman and the home side soon struggled.
Whymark snatched the first wicket thanks to a top edge into Wilton Ely's gloves. Swiney joined the party when a full toss was dispatched to Whymark in the covers. Swiney added another before the Milden attack was changed.
Mathew Jossy took a wicket in every one of his four overs - included three superb clean bowled deliveries and a stunning catch from Andrew 'Bagpuss' Sumo Simmons. Jossy finished with an unbelievable four wickets for three runs. At the other end Sheshi Aleti weighed in with 3 swift wickets - for only two runs. Leaving the home side floundering on just 48 runs.
The Milden response was quick and decisive (well, at the other end. Boris still struggled to get out of second gear). Our beloved Chairman, Martin Roffey succumbed off the second ball for a duck. However, Richard Harding smashed a quickfire 40 runs (including a huge six off his second delivery faced)to grab a phenomenal victory for the Mildeners. Tea was taken at the end of the game and despite the offer of a friendly T20 - the teams went their separate ways. Milden grabbing a much needed 20 points.
The skipper won the toss (for the first time in 2013) and put the Rougham team into bat. Their openers started brightly but were soon pegged back by birthday boy Whymark and a hungover Swiney. Jaded they might have been from the previous night's exploits - but they peppered the Rougham batsman and the home side soon struggled.
Whymark snatched the first wicket thanks to a top edge into Wilton Ely's gloves. Swiney joined the party when a full toss was dispatched to Whymark in the covers. Swiney added another before the Milden attack was changed.
Mathew Jossy took a wicket in every one of his four overs - included three superb clean bowled deliveries and a stunning catch from Andrew 'Bagpuss' Sumo Simmons. Jossy finished with an unbelievable four wickets for three runs. At the other end Sheshi Aleti weighed in with 3 swift wickets - for only two runs. Leaving the home side floundering on just 48 runs.
The Milden response was quick and decisive (well, at the other end. Boris still struggled to get out of second gear). Our beloved Chairman, Martin Roffey succumbed off the second ball for a duck. However, Richard Harding smashed a quickfire 40 runs (including a huge six off his second delivery faced)to grab a phenomenal victory for the Mildeners. Tea was taken at the end of the game and despite the offer of a friendly T20 - the teams went their separate ways. Milden grabbing a much needed 20 points.
T20 Derby goes down to the wire.
Milden traveled the 3 miles or so to our neighbours and fierce rivals Edwardstone CC on Wednesday evening. There had been news of trouble prior to the match in Boxford but this was quickly clarified as someone parking on a double yellow line and also the post office queue getting a bit rowdy on pension day.
Milden fielded a good team and skip lost the toss and ECC invited us to bat. Ray at ECC had prepared a terrific wicket, adorned with Blue stumps and yellow bails and a white cricket ball to boot. Milden were well supported by its own Barmy Army compromising of Will Ward, Sumo and new WAG Leanne.
Budgie opened with Matt Jossey who dispatched the ball around the ground to fire a quick not out 27 and retire. The rest of the team chipped in with runs throughout the order, with a good final push from messers, Boris, Tabs and Tossbell. Milden finished on 121 for 8 off the allocated 20 overs.
A quick turn around and the boys were back on the pitch with Sam and Swinney opening the innings. Tidy at the start, both got into their stride with some tight bowling and excellent fielding all round. Rich Harding was tidy behind the stumps in his white, gold and purple gloves (he is that good) but the game changer was Skip, after an average first over, the Ginger Comet ripped through the heart of the Edwardstone innings, taking 3 excellent wickets.
However, the game as not won and ECC came back hard with some lusty blows, Tabs controlled one end well but ECC were always just behind the require rate. Swinney was asked to bowl the last over with 18 required, a couple of 4 raised a few heartbeats, but Swinney took a good wicket and bowled tightly to leave ECC 6 runs short.
A great effort from the boys on a great evening and we were very much welcomed by our big rivals. This then extended to drinks at the Groton Fox, where piles of Suffolks finest chips and sausages had been laid on by our hosts. A few bevvies were sunk and a thoroughly good game of cricket enjoyed. Whilst Milden CC won this time, it was encouraging to see lots of local talent on show, cricket was the winner .!!!
Milden fielded a good team and skip lost the toss and ECC invited us to bat. Ray at ECC had prepared a terrific wicket, adorned with Blue stumps and yellow bails and a white cricket ball to boot. Milden were well supported by its own Barmy Army compromising of Will Ward, Sumo and new WAG Leanne.
Budgie opened with Matt Jossey who dispatched the ball around the ground to fire a quick not out 27 and retire. The rest of the team chipped in with runs throughout the order, with a good final push from messers, Boris, Tabs and Tossbell. Milden finished on 121 for 8 off the allocated 20 overs.
A quick turn around and the boys were back on the pitch with Sam and Swinney opening the innings. Tidy at the start, both got into their stride with some tight bowling and excellent fielding all round. Rich Harding was tidy behind the stumps in his white, gold and purple gloves (he is that good) but the game changer was Skip, after an average first over, the Ginger Comet ripped through the heart of the Edwardstone innings, taking 3 excellent wickets.
However, the game as not won and ECC came back hard with some lusty blows, Tabs controlled one end well but ECC were always just behind the require rate. Swinney was asked to bowl the last over with 18 required, a couple of 4 raised a few heartbeats, but Swinney took a good wicket and bowled tightly to leave ECC 6 runs short.
A great effort from the boys on a great evening and we were very much welcomed by our big rivals. This then extended to drinks at the Groton Fox, where piles of Suffolks finest chips and sausages had been laid on by our hosts. A few bevvies were sunk and a thoroughly good game of cricket enjoyed. Whilst Milden CC won this time, it was encouraging to see lots of local talent on show, cricket was the winner .!!!
Not enough runs but plenty of beans !!!
Milden traveled over to East Bergholt to face the league leaders in this league fixture. Milden had a strong line up and arrived to find a ground in good order and very picturesque. Milden had brought along their travelling fans in the form of Will Ward and Sumo (well done chaps) and they watched as Skip tossed up and remarkably won the toss, electing to bat.
Milden started cautiously with Budgie and Boris, with the latter being removed in the 5th over for three. Harding strode to the crease and began to set about the bowling in his usual cavalier style, eventually being caught for 18 runs. TK and Budgie continued to make good inroads into the tight Bergholt attack and were looking comfortable as they moved the score onto 91 before Budgie went one big too many and was caught well for 41. Pat came and went for a very un Pat like duck and Graeme Fergurson and carried onto build the innings before TK was stumped for 41, leaving the score 129 for 6 in the 33rd over. What should have been a great platform to kick on, never materialised with some loose shots and continued tight bowling, Milden were all out for 139 with 2 overs to spare.
A good tea was take, with egg sandwiches, cheese, ham and a selection of sausage rolls, pizza slices and cake….well done EBCC.
Milden took the field following a pep talk from the skipper and Whymark and TK opened the bowling. Sam was quick into his straps and took a wicket when the opener gloved one to TK in the slips. Both openers continued to bowl some tight lines with TK eventually getting the opener to play one onto his stumps. Sheshi bowled some tidy stuff and was rewarded with a wicket following JWE’s good take. Milden continued to field tightly with plenty of spirit in the field. TK then removed the number ‘s 4 and 5 in quick succession piling on the pressure for the EBCC boys.
New boy Kingston bowled very tidily and also picked up a wick, East Bergholt’s run were drying up quickly, returning excellent figures of 1 for 19 of 9 overs. Pat was also wheeling away at the other end and took his wicket with the champagne moment of the game, TK leaping like a tin of salmon to his right to take a good slip catch. Milden tried to dislodge the last batsman with a couple of close calls and a nick where the bat did not walk but EBCC saw the game home with 3 overs to spare for the loss of eight wickets.
A fantastic team performance, great spirit and effort from Milden today, we did not capitalise on the platform that we had built but showed some real fight to nearly nick the game at the end. TK was awarded for his efforts with the Beans this week.
Milden 139, all out .
East Bergholt, 140 for 8, won by two wickets.
Milden started cautiously with Budgie and Boris, with the latter being removed in the 5th over for three. Harding strode to the crease and began to set about the bowling in his usual cavalier style, eventually being caught for 18 runs. TK and Budgie continued to make good inroads into the tight Bergholt attack and were looking comfortable as they moved the score onto 91 before Budgie went one big too many and was caught well for 41. Pat came and went for a very un Pat like duck and Graeme Fergurson and carried onto build the innings before TK was stumped for 41, leaving the score 129 for 6 in the 33rd over. What should have been a great platform to kick on, never materialised with some loose shots and continued tight bowling, Milden were all out for 139 with 2 overs to spare.
A good tea was take, with egg sandwiches, cheese, ham and a selection of sausage rolls, pizza slices and cake….well done EBCC.
Milden took the field following a pep talk from the skipper and Whymark and TK opened the bowling. Sam was quick into his straps and took a wicket when the opener gloved one to TK in the slips. Both openers continued to bowl some tight lines with TK eventually getting the opener to play one onto his stumps. Sheshi bowled some tidy stuff and was rewarded with a wicket following JWE’s good take. Milden continued to field tightly with plenty of spirit in the field. TK then removed the number ‘s 4 and 5 in quick succession piling on the pressure for the EBCC boys.
New boy Kingston bowled very tidily and also picked up a wick, East Bergholt’s run were drying up quickly, returning excellent figures of 1 for 19 of 9 overs. Pat was also wheeling away at the other end and took his wicket with the champagne moment of the game, TK leaping like a tin of salmon to his right to take a good slip catch. Milden tried to dislodge the last batsman with a couple of close calls and a nick where the bat did not walk but EBCC saw the game home with 3 overs to spare for the loss of eight wickets.
A fantastic team performance, great spirit and effort from Milden today, we did not capitalise on the platform that we had built but showed some real fight to nearly nick the game at the end. TK was awarded for his efforts with the Beans this week.
Milden 139, all out .
East Bergholt, 140 for 8, won by two wickets.
Milden CC secure first league win

On a bright and warm Sunday, Milden hosted Stowupland for a league fixture off a terrific win last week in a friendly game against Levenheath. Form of some of the players seemed to continue as there were some fine performances.
Skip as always, lost the toss and Milden were asked to field. TK and Sam opened up from either end and bowled some tight lines restricting the openers to under 3 an over for the first 9 overs.
A double changed saw Matt Jossey continue the good work and was rewarded with a fine caught and bowled. Pat threw down his usual wobblers and was also rewarded with a sharp stumping by the glove work of Richard Harding. Stowupland started to apply the gas and score runs more quickly with ball going into the air but not to the fielders.
Skip decided to turn his arm and this delivered the breakthrough that Milden required. He proceeded to roll through the middle order, with some fine catches from Matt Jossey and TK, excellent fielding from Tim Lucas and Chris Cherrington, stumpings from Rich Harding, finishing with 5 wickets and turning the balance of the game. New boy Swinney supported skipper with some tidy and lively bowling from the other end, marking his debut with a solid bowling performance.Sam Whymark picked up another wicket with the last ball of the innings with a sharp catch from Boris. Stowupland finished on 161 for 8 from 40 overs.
A fine tea was provided by Sumo, with a selection of tuna, ham cheese and pickle and marvelous egg sandwiches, a choice of biscuits and cakes with some sausage rolls for the more savory palate Sumo was in serious contention for the man of the match and the coveted beans !!!!!
Milden opened their innings with Boris and Sumo, however, the latter was back in the pavilion for 0 after being bowled with a good swinging delivery from Sturgeon (or had the tea adulation just been too much for him !!!) In came Rich Harding with his customery swash buckling style and he helped to accelerate the innings with Boris careful accumulating runs. Boris went for 10, adjudged LBW and in came Pat. Rich and Pat set about the Stowupland bowlers and dispatched the ball to all parts of the ground. Rich got to his fifty first but both batsmen played some expansive shots whilst complimenting this with some smart running. Milden were now ahead of the required run rate when Rich was bowled for 78, his highest score for Milden. TK joined Pat at the crease, Pat made his 50 with another fine shot and the two of them knocked off the last 20 runs with no drama's and with 3 overs to spare.
Skip was very pleased with this excellent victory and thanks goes Stowupland for making it an enjoyable game. There were a number of fine performances but the Beans this week were awarded to Richard Harding for his fine knock. Milden celebrated their first league win with beers, chips and scampi at the White Horse. No league fixture next week but a friendly may be arranged.
Scores: Stowupland 161 for 80 from 40 overs
Milden 163 for 3 from 37.1 overs
Skip as always, lost the toss and Milden were asked to field. TK and Sam opened up from either end and bowled some tight lines restricting the openers to under 3 an over for the first 9 overs.
A double changed saw Matt Jossey continue the good work and was rewarded with a fine caught and bowled. Pat threw down his usual wobblers and was also rewarded with a sharp stumping by the glove work of Richard Harding. Stowupland started to apply the gas and score runs more quickly with ball going into the air but not to the fielders.
Skip decided to turn his arm and this delivered the breakthrough that Milden required. He proceeded to roll through the middle order, with some fine catches from Matt Jossey and TK, excellent fielding from Tim Lucas and Chris Cherrington, stumpings from Rich Harding, finishing with 5 wickets and turning the balance of the game. New boy Swinney supported skipper with some tidy and lively bowling from the other end, marking his debut with a solid bowling performance.Sam Whymark picked up another wicket with the last ball of the innings with a sharp catch from Boris. Stowupland finished on 161 for 8 from 40 overs.
A fine tea was provided by Sumo, with a selection of tuna, ham cheese and pickle and marvelous egg sandwiches, a choice of biscuits and cakes with some sausage rolls for the more savory palate Sumo was in serious contention for the man of the match and the coveted beans !!!!!
Milden opened their innings with Boris and Sumo, however, the latter was back in the pavilion for 0 after being bowled with a good swinging delivery from Sturgeon (or had the tea adulation just been too much for him !!!) In came Rich Harding with his customery swash buckling style and he helped to accelerate the innings with Boris careful accumulating runs. Boris went for 10, adjudged LBW and in came Pat. Rich and Pat set about the Stowupland bowlers and dispatched the ball to all parts of the ground. Rich got to his fifty first but both batsmen played some expansive shots whilst complimenting this with some smart running. Milden were now ahead of the required run rate when Rich was bowled for 78, his highest score for Milden. TK joined Pat at the crease, Pat made his 50 with another fine shot and the two of them knocked off the last 20 runs with no drama's and with 3 overs to spare.
Skip was very pleased with this excellent victory and thanks goes Stowupland for making it an enjoyable game. There were a number of fine performances but the Beans this week were awarded to Richard Harding for his fine knock. Milden celebrated their first league win with beers, chips and scampi at the White Horse. No league fixture next week but a friendly may be arranged.
Scores: Stowupland 161 for 80 from 40 overs
Milden 163 for 3 from 37.1 overs
Milden CC lose opening day fixture
Milden travelled to Long Melford Cricket Club for the opening fixture of the 2013 league season. The weather was beautifully spring like and we were welcomed well by the opposition.
Skip had a tough selection to make for hi starting XI but Milden fielded a strong team with pat Humphries making his Milden debut. Skip lost the toss and we were invited to bat on a good looking wicket. Milden started well with Boris and Roffey making steady progress to 50 without loss. Roffey fell to a good catch whilst trying to accelerate the innings and TK was sent in to continue the momentum. Both batsmen pushed the score along whilst dealing with some tidy and steady bowling. TK was dismissed to a good catch on the boundary for 37 and Budgie continued the momentum with some nice stroke play. Boris made his 50 and Milden again pressed the accelerator. Boris then departed for 64 adjudged LBW and new boy Humphreys came in and set about the bowling. Milden were on course for a good score but just could not accelerate quickly enough. Pat was bowled for 12 and Dom Thomas came in to nick a few more with Budgie who was 19 not out.
Milden felt this was a competitive score but about 30 runs short.
Tea was taken with many cakes, sausage rolls and sandwiches but controversially no egg sandwiches!! Great effort nevertheless.
TK huddled the team for a quick chat and Milden began to defend their total. TK and Matt Jossey opened the bowling with some tight lines and TK was unlucky not to dismiss the opener by just missing the stumps to a good Yorker. This proved costly as he looked a good bat.
The wicket flattened out and Milden continued to try and remove the opposition. Jossey removed the other opener with a good catch taken by Dom Thomas behind the stumps. He then removed the incoming number 3 with his next delivery and Milden looked in control.
The Long Melford skipper arrived at the crease and rebuilt the innings with some controlled batting and Whymark on his debut bowled some good deliveries but got the opener out with a shocking full toss slower ball to take his first wicket for the club.
However, Melford continued to gather the runs and Milden did not bowl as tightly as they could with few chances going to the field. Pat picked up the wicket of the Melford Skipper bowling him around his legs. Two youngsters were now at the crease but they batted with maturity and skill. Milden had a couple of close chances but were unable to remove them and hats off to young Phil at number 4 who finished on 47 not out and supported by the number 5 bat with 41.
Melford chased down the 180 that Milden had set with 7 overs to spare.
A great effort from the lads and we did not score enough runs or bowl as tightly as we could. However, the platform is there for us to continue to improve and grow and winter nets did show some positives with players not being too rusty.
The giving it the beans man of the match performance went to Boris, skip awarded him with a large can of Heinz’ finest.
Quick drink after the game with the Melford team and then Milden retired to the White Horse. Skip laid on some Chips, onion rings and scampi which were washed down with beer.
Next week, Milden are at home to Worlington.
Milden 180 for 4 (40 overs) Long Melford 181 for 4 (33 Overs)
Winter Indoor Cricket League
Milden CC entered the indoor cricket league held at Culford school over a period of 6 weeks during January and February. The league consisted of teams from Walsham, Elveden, Bury St Edmunds, Horringer,Rougham and Earl Stonham and Milden. Th teams were made up of a mix of 1st and 2nd XI's and was played in a very competitive and friednly spirit.
Most of the Milden team had not played but we entred the league with enthusiasm and attitude, after all, we are a small club but a proud one !!
We were joint 4th taking a few scalps on the way, Milden played some terrific cricket,with fantastic attitude and effort. Thank you to Skip for organising our participation and all those that made the effort to attend.
Notable achievements were for bowling from TK and Chris 'Budgie' Philbedge takling 17 wickets between them with TK taking home in the kitbag the leading wicket taker trophy with 11 at an average of 5.8 and Chris 6 wickets with an average of 10. Our fielding was exceptional and improved every week and puts us in great shape for the 2013 season where we intend to 'GIVE IT THE BEANS !!!'
Most of the Milden team had not played but we entred the league with enthusiasm and attitude, after all, we are a small club but a proud one !!
We were joint 4th taking a few scalps on the way, Milden played some terrific cricket,with fantastic attitude and effort. Thank you to Skip for organising our participation and all those that made the effort to attend.
Notable achievements were for bowling from TK and Chris 'Budgie' Philbedge takling 17 wickets between them with TK taking home in the kitbag the leading wicket taker trophy with 11 at an average of 5.8 and Chris 6 wickets with an average of 10. Our fielding was exceptional and improved every week and puts us in great shape for the 2013 season where we intend to 'GIVE IT THE BEANS !!!'
Milden CC 2012 Presentation Evening
Milden and District Cricket Club held its annual end of season awards dinner dance at the Edwardstone Village Hall on Saturday 17th November. Sixty eight players, friends and supporters enjoyed an excellent evening to celebrate the end of another good season and to raise funds for the development of the club. Over £650 was raised at our largest ever annual dinner, many thanks to everyone who donated raffle prizes. Club Chairman David Porteous-Butler and Skipper Richard Robinson compéred the prize giving, with sponsor James Harding of Ingatestone Garden Centre awarding the prizes to the following; Young Player of the Year – Liam Tosbell, Duck Award – Andrew Simmons, Fielding Award – Chris Cherrington, Most Improved Player & Cow Corner Award – Tim Lucas, Bowling Award – Richard Robinson, Batting Award – Alex Cunningham, Dow Biggin Player of the Year –Tom Konopka and Matthew Jossy, and the Chairman’s Award – Graham Masters.
Special thanks for helping with the evening must go to Scott Hurrell and Denise for running the bar, to the caterers Smugglers of Hadleigh who provided another excellent supper and to all those who attended to help support the Club.
Most importantly we must all thank Richard Robinson, not only for his efforts on the night but for his hard work and dedication to the Club over the season.
Milden return to winning ways
Milden entertained Rougham II's on a warm but overcast day at home. Milden lot the toss and were asked to bat by the Rougham skipper. Milden started in typical fashion, losing Tabs and Will Ward quickly. TK and Boris put on a good stand before Boris departed. TK marshalled the innings with Milden in good shape. Matthew Jossey in typical style got about the batting and the two put on a good partnership. TK was adjudged LBW for 41 but Jossey continued to get about the Rougham bowling. Matthew departed for 50 and Dakers continued the good work and pushed the tail around so that Milden ended on 158 all out. We were a bit disappointed as we were aiming for a total of 200 which we should do most weeks.
An excellent tea was provided by Mr and Mrs Dakers, with egg sandwiches, tuna and jam sandwiches and lots of sausage rolls and cakes. Well Done !!
Milden went into the filed with the usual team talk from TK ringing in their ears. Rougham started well going at 5 an over for the first four overs. However, TK made the beak through, trapping the opener for LBW. Milden continued to tighten their grip with Konopka and Sheshi bowling a tight spell. TK was unlucky in glancing the stumps but the bails stayed on. Robinson changed the bowling around and what an inspired decision it was. Robinson began to remove the Rougham batsman with some tight and varied blowing, well supported at the other end by Dakers. Catches were shelled at first but some sharp ones taken. Robinson took the prized wicket of the Rougham opening bat with Sumo taking a sharp catch at silly mid off. Robinson wheeled away, bowling variable but controlled line and length and ended with a fantastic 5 wickets, it may of been six if Sammi had not been so enthusiastic with a stumping. Dakers at the other end took four excellent wickets to bowl Rougham out for 68.
An excellent victory for Milden but disappointed that we did not hit our target of 200, albeit on a slow and turgid wicket. Rougham were excellent in their sportsmanship and effort and appreciated that they joined us at the Edwardstone White Horse for jugs of beer bought by Skip and Scampi and Chips for nibbles.
Milden face Mellis next week and will hope to continue to build on this victory. Just a reminder, presentation night 27th October at the Edwardstone Village Hall. See you all there.
An excellent tea was provided by Mr and Mrs Dakers, with egg sandwiches, tuna and jam sandwiches and lots of sausage rolls and cakes. Well Done !!
Milden went into the filed with the usual team talk from TK ringing in their ears. Rougham started well going at 5 an over for the first four overs. However, TK made the beak through, trapping the opener for LBW. Milden continued to tighten their grip with Konopka and Sheshi bowling a tight spell. TK was unlucky in glancing the stumps but the bails stayed on. Robinson changed the bowling around and what an inspired decision it was. Robinson began to remove the Rougham batsman with some tight and varied blowing, well supported at the other end by Dakers. Catches were shelled at first but some sharp ones taken. Robinson took the prized wicket of the Rougham opening bat with Sumo taking a sharp catch at silly mid off. Robinson wheeled away, bowling variable but controlled line and length and ended with a fantastic 5 wickets, it may of been six if Sammi had not been so enthusiastic with a stumping. Dakers at the other end took four excellent wickets to bowl Rougham out for 68.
An excellent victory for Milden but disappointed that we did not hit our target of 200, albeit on a slow and turgid wicket. Rougham were excellent in their sportsmanship and effort and appreciated that they joined us at the Edwardstone White Horse for jugs of beer bought by Skip and Scampi and Chips for nibbles.
Milden face Mellis next week and will hope to continue to build on this victory. Just a reminder, presentation night 27th October at the Edwardstone Village Hall. See you all there.
Hadleigh 96 all out, Milden win by seven wickets.

Milden recorded their fourth back-to-back win for the first time in recent history after a convincing victory over Hadleigh. There were two huge factors in the result – the pitch and the toss. Fortunately the coin fell in Milden’s favour and the winning foundations were laid quickly.
The home side’s plan was to make the best of the conditions by utilising their two experienced medium pacers to keep the score down and force Hadleigh to make mistakes. Barry Dakers and Tabs Willis cheerfully accepted the challenge and both upset the openers with a series of faultless overs. This kept the visitors score low and by 20 overs they had crept to just 31. Tabs Willis snatched two early wickets against his former club side and Barry was unlucky to have a catch dropped and an LBW turned down. Both bowled their full ten overs and certainly earned their tea!
Robinson and Sheshi Aleti then grabbed the reigns. The former grabbed the wicket of one of the two openers as a mistimed sweep was gobbled up by Tabs. Sheshi carried on Barry’s excellent work by keeping the score low and was unfortunate to see an edgy drive dropped at mid-off.
The scene was now set for the two quickies. Mathew Jossy immediately broke through and as the pitch hardened the resolve of the Hadleigh youngsters fell away. Mathew was rewarded with three wickets but the show stopper was Liam Tosbell from the Pavilion end who notched career best figures of 4-18. The Hadleigh innings ended at 94 all out in the 36th over.
Tea was provided by Jonathan McMahon who recently returned from living in Dublin. However, there was little blarney with the tea – just a fantastic assortment of savouries and cakes. A big thumbs up Mr McMahon!
Jon was rewarded for his tea-making expertise with a spot at the top of the batting order with Boris. He wasted no time getting off the mark but was unfortunate to fall quickly after some inch-perfect bowling from Davey – the Hadleigh opener. Davey fired off five consecutive maidens and Milden struggled to find second gear. Boris strategically took 25 balls to get off the mark – but this was all part of the plan. Richard Harding, ‘fresh as a daisy’ from his previous night’s activities, joined Boris at the crease but similarly found the going tough. Nevertheless he found the boundary rope a few times before falling to Ashlar – a mystery spinner. Boris survived until the 23rd over before he was bowled for 18 which bought Tabs to the crease to partner a re-energised Will Ward. Will made light work of the Hadleigh bowlers a steered two balls over the boundary (one into the Watson’s field) for straight sixes and was ably assisted by Willis. With three overs remaining Will and Tabs departed the Milden Sports Field with Will making an excellent 34.
Good team spirit made this victory all the sweeter as the minnows look to take their winning bandwagon to Acton next weekend. Nobody has mentioned the ‘p’ word yet – but if Sunday gleans another win......
Midlden CC vs Woolpit Academy

Milden travelled the short distance to Wooplit to play a match that no one thought likely would take place. Woolpit got a good pitch together and this would form the basis of an entertaining game. Milden fielded only 10 players due to a late call off from Whitwell, so Matt Jossey was drafted in (he could not get there till 3pm), how important was that to be.
Skip loss the toss and Woolpit elected to bat on what seemed a bowler friendly pitch. The Woolpit openers from the first ball got the scoreboard ticking over and Liam was targetted by the father and son opening pair for Woolpit. TK managed to stem the runs from one end and was unlucky not to take both openers with some good swing bowling which they played and missed at. Woolpit score accelerated along and they were soon at 100 runs from 17 overs. Robinson came into the attack and after some tap, removed the dangerous opener with a good catch by Ward. Milden stuck to their guns with Dakers weighing in with a wicket as well as Tabs bowling some good tight overs. There were some terrific fielding performances from Liam, Chris and Rich Harding that helped rein the scoring in, as Woolpit were looking to score 250. In the end, Milden restricted Woolpit to 215 for 6.
Tea was taken and the Milden team were slightly down as we knew we had a big mountain to climb. We pondered our strategy and Boris unfairly came in for some stick as we tucked in delicious egg sandwiches, tuna rolls and a selection of savouries and sweets, washed down with hot brew. Well done Woolpit..
Milden started their innings slowly and soon needed 8.5 per over with Boris being adjudged LBW, Harding and Ward back in the hutch with the score in the 40's, Milden were looking at an early finish and when TK went for 6 and Tabs for 1, we were ready to go home. The Woolpit players tails were up and they looked lively in the field. Matt and Dakers were out in the middle and i can only describe what happened next is the stuff of legend. Both batsman decided to dig in and take the game to Woolpit, some very clean hitting from both players saw Matthew post his first 50 for Milden and Dakers guiding the youngster through the innings as both went about the Woolpit attack. The mood of the fielders changed as the score crept up. Jossey went for one big shot too many and departed for 64 well caught in the deep. Dakers continued to hit the bowling around with support from James W-Ely (smashing a terrific flat 6) and Liam, the latter crashing sixes and fours to put Milden within touching distance of a remarkable win.Dakers was run out chasing the winning runs for 50. With the scores tied, Robinson strode to the crease but Liam was on strike. A few dot balls raised the tension but with two balls to spare, Liam crashed a drive through the failed dive from the fielder to send the Milden players who were standing on the rope, banana's.
Woolpit Academy 215 for 6
Milden CC 216 for 9
Recognition must go to Woolpit for taking defeat graciously and contributing to such an excellent game played in the right spirit. Milden will again learn from this that we must never give up and anything can happen....... oh and finally the reason we won this game was not due to big sixes and fours and excellent bowling displays, we won due to the determination and spirit that makes us a small club and a proud club......that is why we are Milden CC.
Skip loss the toss and Woolpit elected to bat on what seemed a bowler friendly pitch. The Woolpit openers from the first ball got the scoreboard ticking over and Liam was targetted by the father and son opening pair for Woolpit. TK managed to stem the runs from one end and was unlucky not to take both openers with some good swing bowling which they played and missed at. Woolpit score accelerated along and they were soon at 100 runs from 17 overs. Robinson came into the attack and after some tap, removed the dangerous opener with a good catch by Ward. Milden stuck to their guns with Dakers weighing in with a wicket as well as Tabs bowling some good tight overs. There were some terrific fielding performances from Liam, Chris and Rich Harding that helped rein the scoring in, as Woolpit were looking to score 250. In the end, Milden restricted Woolpit to 215 for 6.
Tea was taken and the Milden team were slightly down as we knew we had a big mountain to climb. We pondered our strategy and Boris unfairly came in for some stick as we tucked in delicious egg sandwiches, tuna rolls and a selection of savouries and sweets, washed down with hot brew. Well done Woolpit..
Milden started their innings slowly and soon needed 8.5 per over with Boris being adjudged LBW, Harding and Ward back in the hutch with the score in the 40's, Milden were looking at an early finish and when TK went for 6 and Tabs for 1, we were ready to go home. The Woolpit players tails were up and they looked lively in the field. Matt and Dakers were out in the middle and i can only describe what happened next is the stuff of legend. Both batsman decided to dig in and take the game to Woolpit, some very clean hitting from both players saw Matthew post his first 50 for Milden and Dakers guiding the youngster through the innings as both went about the Woolpit attack. The mood of the fielders changed as the score crept up. Jossey went for one big shot too many and departed for 64 well caught in the deep. Dakers continued to hit the bowling around with support from James W-Ely (smashing a terrific flat 6) and Liam, the latter crashing sixes and fours to put Milden within touching distance of a remarkable win.Dakers was run out chasing the winning runs for 50. With the scores tied, Robinson strode to the crease but Liam was on strike. A few dot balls raised the tension but with two balls to spare, Liam crashed a drive through the failed dive from the fielder to send the Milden players who were standing on the rope, banana's.
Woolpit Academy 215 for 6
Milden CC 216 for 9
Recognition must go to Woolpit for taking defeat graciously and contributing to such an excellent game played in the right spirit. Milden will again learn from this that we must never give up and anything can happen....... oh and finally the reason we won this game was not due to big sixes and fours and excellent bowling displays, we won due to the determination and spirit that makes us a small club and a proud club......that is why we are Milden CC.
Milden CC vs Walsham Le Williows CC

1st July 2012Milden win by 5 wickets.
The Sports Field was bathed in sunshine following some dodgy weather reports in the week. Milden turned up to a picturesque scene and a terrific wicket that had been prepared by Graham.
Skip won the toss and put Walsham into bat. They started very cautiously in the first 10 overs with Konopka and Aries going close on a number of times. In the end Aries broke through with the removal of Wright and some intelligent field placing by Skip. The dangerous Newman came in and looked a bit shaky with a couple of half chances going to ground or just out of reach. Walsham began to accelerate the score with some clean hitting and loose bowling but at timely intervals wickets were taken and some committed fielding strated to reel the Walsham scoring back. Tabs took a fantastic skyer off Dakers bowling to remove Newman and Dakers struck again removing George first ball. There were some shenanigans when the umpire called no ball for three behind square leg, but his call was correct and well before the wicket was taken. Walsham completed their 40 hours on 173 for 6. ( Wicket takers for Milden - Aries, Konopka, Willis (2) and Dakers (2))
A terrific tea was enjoyed by all in the sunshine, delicacies such as cocktail sausages, cheese sandwiches and ham and lettuce. Some top cakes were also laid on with lashings of hot tea.Well done to Alice for making a splendid spread.
Milden went into bat with the words of Skip that nothing but determination and graft would get us through. Roffey and Boris want about their business in tidy fashion against some tight bowling and neat fielding. Roffey's frustration got the better of him as the run rate had slowed and he went for 19 caught in the deep. A red faced Whitwell strode to the crease and began to put on a solid stand to move the score on, Boris was beligerent at one end with Whitwell begining to hit some classy shots. Boris was well caught (28) and Whitwell fell short of his first fifty (45). Harding was at the crease in his resplendent new jumper and went about the Walsham bowling, crashing a huge six into the barley field behind the bowler. Konopka was at the crease and the two moved the score towards the required amount. Harding (22) went to a splendid slip catch and Tabs (2) came and went. The pressure was building on Milden but Konopka sent one ball back into the field for 6 and then for a 4 which relieved the pressure. Milden crept to the total, last ball, scores tied, Dom kept his nerve to safely negotiate the ball behind square for the winning run. Milden 174 for 5
A really great effort from Milden and classiness from Walsham who were magnanemous in defeat
The Sports Field was bathed in sunshine following some dodgy weather reports in the week. Milden turned up to a picturesque scene and a terrific wicket that had been prepared by Graham.
Skip won the toss and put Walsham into bat. They started very cautiously in the first 10 overs with Konopka and Aries going close on a number of times. In the end Aries broke through with the removal of Wright and some intelligent field placing by Skip. The dangerous Newman came in and looked a bit shaky with a couple of half chances going to ground or just out of reach. Walsham began to accelerate the score with some clean hitting and loose bowling but at timely intervals wickets were taken and some committed fielding strated to reel the Walsham scoring back. Tabs took a fantastic skyer off Dakers bowling to remove Newman and Dakers struck again removing George first ball. There were some shenanigans when the umpire called no ball for three behind square leg, but his call was correct and well before the wicket was taken. Walsham completed their 40 hours on 173 for 6. ( Wicket takers for Milden - Aries, Konopka, Willis (2) and Dakers (2))
A terrific tea was enjoyed by all in the sunshine, delicacies such as cocktail sausages, cheese sandwiches and ham and lettuce. Some top cakes were also laid on with lashings of hot tea.Well done to Alice for making a splendid spread.
Milden went into bat with the words of Skip that nothing but determination and graft would get us through. Roffey and Boris want about their business in tidy fashion against some tight bowling and neat fielding. Roffey's frustration got the better of him as the run rate had slowed and he went for 19 caught in the deep. A red faced Whitwell strode to the crease and began to put on a solid stand to move the score on, Boris was beligerent at one end with Whitwell begining to hit some classy shots. Boris was well caught (28) and Whitwell fell short of his first fifty (45). Harding was at the crease in his resplendent new jumper and went about the Walsham bowling, crashing a huge six into the barley field behind the bowler. Konopka was at the crease and the two moved the score towards the required amount. Harding (22) went to a splendid slip catch and Tabs (2) came and went. The pressure was building on Milden but Konopka sent one ball back into the field for 6 and then for a 4 which relieved the pressure. Milden crept to the total, last ball, scores tied, Dom kept his nerve to safely negotiate the ball behind square for the winning run. Milden 174 for 5
A really great effort from Milden and classiness from Walsham who were magnanemous in defeat