Cirencester Cricket Club > News > July 2002 > Avening 2nd XI vs Cirencester 3rd XI

Avening 2nd XI vs Cirencester 3rd XI [Thursday 4 July 2002]

In their first 'truly' away game of the season, a real 'young and old' Ciren side faced a strengthened Avening and Cherington side on a ground where the boundaries are almost twice as big as at the Park. Ciren won the toss and batted. Steve Harris and Dave Shackleton put on 79 for the first wicket in difficult conditions where the ball seamed around a lot and also moved in off the seam. The odd inconsistent ball also helped the bowlers.

4 wickets quickly fell just before the 100 was scored and it was left to Tim Cambray and James Shackleton to steady the ship. 30 runs were added in quick time and with overs running out, the tail wagged as effectively as it had done the previous week to ensure a third batting point was secured. Trevor Hillier hitting 2 lusty straight shots back passed the bowler in the final over. Simon Hannis bowled consistently well making the ball move in both directions.

With a bowling attack of average age 16, Ciren bowled with great discipline as the Avening and Cherington openers tried to get away rapidly. James Shackleton bowled with his usual tightness and eventually produced a beautiful ball to break the opening partnership. However, Avening and Cherington continued to make good progress until the introduction Trevor Hillier into the attack. He bowled with good control and was rewarded with 4 wickets, 2 of which gave Rich Hudson consecutive catches on consecutive balls (awarding J Turner his Primary Club tie) and beating the impressive bat of J Richings.

In a tense finish with runs coming slowly, James Shackleton came back into the attack and along with Simon Rowe made the batsmen graft for every run. It was left to James Hoddy in the end to score the winning run for Avening and Cherington. Once again, Ciren's youngsters fielded well all afternoon and showed what spirit this young and promising side has.