West lose way in the gloom

From the Malvern Gazette, first published Thursday 21st Jun 2007.

WEST MALVERN v THE LENCHES

WITH the rumble of thunder and the odd flash of lightning in the background the dark foreboding clouds surrounding Mathon Court gave an inkling of the explosive drama about to unfold.

Great credit is due to the groundstaff who produced a wicket, though damp, was playable after near monsoon conditions for the previous three days.

On winning the toss, acting captain Steve Wright had no hesitation in inviting The Lenches to bat, a decision he was to ponder over two and a half hours later as they amassed 305-6.

South African D Selvey being the main source of runs, amassing a quite brilliant 175 in an innings of brutal aggression and stroke play not seen in West Malvern for many a year, ably assisted by S McNally 86.

The West's bowlers toiled manfully, in particular P O'Connell (2-63) and R Dakin (2-41) plugged away in the face of the onslaught, though West Malvern did not help themselves with several spilled catches and tea came as a blessed relief.

With the weather improving and the wicket drying West's openers were eager to make inroads into the mammoth total.

However, after Wright retired hurt only three of the West's batsmen reached double figures, most notably R Dakin 23no, an innings which showed maturity and skill beyond the young man's years.

A losing draw was ensured with West's final total of 87-8 in 45 overs.

Tomorrow (Saturday) West Malvern travel to Bewdley hoping, with the return of skipper Gilbert to get back to winning ways.

Archive Home