Build up 

Last season started with optimism, fresh off the back of a few net sessions. The optimism was  soon replaced by frustration as the first half a dozen games were called off due to the weather.  This season things started differently; In the run-up we had 1 net session attended to by just our 2 openers. Our first match was to be away at Broadbottom on a pleasant ground with great  views of the surrounding hills. The weather was ideal, the only thing visible in the bluest of skies  were the aircraft preparing to land at Manchester and like the contrails left in their wake, the  sense of optimism still lingered, confirmed by the purchasing of cricket trousers by Will R and  new boots by Pagey. 

Line up 

Will Parker failed a late fitness test and was replaced by a probably more injured than Will Matt  Stafford. So, the team we had out consisted of Chris S (C), Chis Col, Rob Chambers, Gino (W),  Davo, Will R, Phil B, Phil Rhodes, Matt Stafford, Haggis and Pagey. 

First up 

We were batting first. However, some things don’t change, and a cut and paste retired not out  was placed next to Chris S (25) row in the scorebook. Joining him in the retired not outs Chris  Col (26), Gino (25) and Davo (25). We should get a stamp made saying ‘retired not out’ to make it  easier and quicker for Pagey. 

Will R hit a fantastic six to finish 10 not out and Phil B also finished unbeaten on 2. The wicket of  Rob Chambers (caught on 8) being the only cause for celebration for the hosts. 

Second up 

Broadbottom had to chase down 162, But with a short boundary down the hill we knew we had  had to bowl well. Of that we did to a man. Before the opposition could blink Rob Chambers had  a victim, with Gino taking a stumping, Phil B at the other end picked up a wicket clean bowled.  Then another wicket for Rob Chambers caught at mid-off by Matt Stafford, a bowling change  and another clean bowled this time Haggis doing the damage. 

The early wickets set the tone, Phil B showing his silky footwork passing a long off boundary  bound attempt along the line to deep extra cover. Phil Rhodes, Matt Stafford, Davo, and Pagey  didn’t get the luck they deserved. But by the time Chris Col took a good catch fizzing towards  him at deepish mid-wicket off the bowling from Will Reddington the very notion of a chase was  fading quicker than the sunlight, and Broadbottom just wanted to survive. Matt Stafford helping  them in this regard by not even getting close to a dolly off Chris Col. The innings closed with  Broadbottom trailing by about 80. 

Eat up 

The teas were top notch, the beer was as lively as Phil B in the field. The moment of the match  going to Will Reddington for his six. 

Next up 

Charlesworth at home Wednesday 7th of May.