Mixed fortunes for Audlem Cricket Club

Saturday match v Meakins

Audlem continued their excellent start to life in The North Staffs and South Cheshire Cricket League with an easy win against Meakins at Fenton Park on Saturday.

Audlem opted to bat first and put the scoreboard into overdrive by reaching an eyewatering 322 for 7 from their allotted 40 overs.

Dan Butler, batting at number seven made a 60 ball unbeaten 100, whilst Captain, Chris Shenton and Dave Parkinson added 51 apiece. Yumeth Athauda was the pick of the Meakin's attack, ending up with figures of 3 for 54.

Audlem's Simon Swift then produced a remarkable spell to help unseat Meakins. Simon took 5 wickets at the cost of only one run in his 6.2 overs to help dismiss the hosts for only 60. Neil Humphries claimed 3 for 16, while Bede Landon's 17 was the top score for the home team.

Sunday match v Church Eaton

Sunday's home encounter with Church Eaton from mid Staffordshire proved to be a far greater obstacle with the visitors cruising to an emphatic 8 wicket triumph despite the hosts setting what appeared to be a competitive total of 238 for 5 off 40 overs after being invited to bat on a benign track and very fast outfield.

Notable performances with the bat came from Toby Banfield (19), Paddy Leese (49), Dave Parkinson (78) & Richard Irvine who finished on 43 not out.

The bowlers struggled from the outset to gain any sort of control with classy openers, Jordan Talbot & David Hughes both scoring chanceless hundreds to set up a regulation victory for the guests.

The only bowler to shine for the hosts was all-rounder, Richard Irvine who took 2 for 10 off his two overs to back up his unbeaten 43 earlier in the day.

Next weekend

Next weekend Audlem play host to Porthill Park on Saturday ( 1:00pm ) whilst the Sunday team travel across the Welsh border to play Fenns Bank in the picturesque setting of Iscoyd Park( 1;00pm)

For the Ladies...

Since joining the new league Audlem are finding an increase in participation of female cricketers in many of the opposing teams. With players having to arrive at the ground in their playing kit due to the Covid 19 regulations stating that changing room must remain closed this season the lack of a female dressing room has not proved an obstacle so far but will need to be addressed before the start of next season. It is hoped that the present structure can be adapted to encompass enhanced changing facilities for the girls and are looking to carry out the necessary work in the close season.

I anyone can offer any support through sponsorship, donation of materials or practical help we would love to hear from you and if any girls in the village or surrounding areas would like to try their hand at our Summer sport you would be made most welcome at The Gorse Croft.