3rd XI Lose Again after Dropped Chances Prove Costly

A ground with no covers, or any sight-screens, given the rain in that week the wicket was inevitably a wet one.

Upon winning the toss Codd elected to field first, early on this looked a good after some tight overs and an early wicket. From then on the number 3 and the other open decided to tee off. Codd brought himself on to slow the run rate and created a chance, this was the first of 6 dropped chances in the innings.

From then the partnership grew with some expansive and at times lucky batting. Poor fielding and inconsistent bowling didn’t help. The rain came with the score 221-5 after 41 overs. A short break allowed Hertford to re group and after the break the fielding and catching in particular improved, 5-27 was taken in this spell ending the innings on 248. Connor Ives taking 4-56.

The Hertford reply started as many have this season with early wickets and at 9-3 and rain on the horizon things looked bleak. However Griddle and Jeff Hurrell rebuilt the innings until drinks, preparing for a late innings dash at the total. However rain would add another twist. At 78-3 after 25 overs, the game was reduced to 38 overs and a target of 190, a further 112 off 78. This target proved to be too much as wickets at regular intervals pushed the rate too high. Notable performances Griddle with 46 and Jeff 30, some youth contributing lower down the order as well but more is needed in the batting department.

Next week the 3’s are back at home against St Albans this will be the first time since that dramatic run chase against Clifton. They will be looking for inspiration from that game to start a winning run.