Drawn- Abandoned due to Rain

 

Only one winner last Sunday, when a torrential downpour that had been threatening for much of the afternoon brought an end to proceedings soon after 5pm.  At the time Wanderers were in what looked to be a winning position, but an opportunity for the third win of the season was thwarted.  Batting first, at the request of a slightly weakened home side, Wanderers started solidly, despite the early loss of Diddy Groves, who pulled his shot too early and was caught at mid wicket.  Slug Rees was In tenacious form and was miserly in giving opportunities to the home bowlers before he fell for a handy 17.  All this time that run machine Sam was moving at pace toward what would become a not out score of 91, setting  up a score of 161 – 4.  He was ably assisted by Jamie Carter, who played his part in a stand with Sam that ensured a total that was maybe twenty shy of what was hoped for, but still looked a good total.  A mention too for a late cameo from Jonty, who really went for it an attempt to push the score on and made a useful 13 not out.

The break for tea saw the clouds gathering and in due course a short break for rain was needed, by which time the home team were very much on the back foot at 33-3, Diddy taking 2 wickets and Jamie one.  A return to the action lasted just an over before a drenched set of players finally called it a day.

It was a disappointing end to what had been a good contest, made all the more so by the spirit in which both sides played the game.  An early piece of sportsmanship by the home team, when confirming a ball had not carried, set the tone.  And it is always a healthy sign when a player walks when he gets an edge.  Rustington gave two of there younger players a bowl which also added to what was, all round, an enjoyable game until the rains came.

Rustington   15 june 2008