Spin kings Wild and Chadwick seal win for 2nd XI

Following the opening day defeat, Audlem 2nd XI looked to kick start their season playing at home to Capenhurst.. Skipper Toby Banfield lost the toss and Audlem were asked to bat. Setting a defensive field from the start, Capenhurst were soon to rue that decision as openers John Wainwright (25) and Banfield put on 56 for the first wicket. However, two quick wickets saw a reversal of fortune as the home side slumped to 60 for 3. Skipper Banfield had other ideas however, as he launched a savage attack on the visitors, ably supported by Zar Ahmed. They added 99 runs for the fourth wicket before Banfield was bowled just ten runs short of his century, whilst trying to hit yet another boundary. Zar continued to play the anchor role as Paul Thorburn hit a quick-fire 27 before being the victim of a diving catch to make it 196 for 5. Zar was out five runs later having scored a patient 30. Andy Jinks went to the crease, faced two balls and scored two fours to allow Banfield to declare Audlem's innings on 209 for 6 after 43 of the scheduled 48 overs.

When Capenhurst replied they lost their first wicket with the score at 13 to spinner Roy Wild. A slow second-wicket partnership showed that the visitors would not be attempting to overhaul Audlem's score. Wild eventually made the breakthrough to leave Capenhurst at 35 for 2. When Wild's spin twin John Chadwick came on to bowl at the other end, the game changed dramatically. Chadwick took three wickets in his first over to leave the visitors reeling. Only skipper Ian Colclough gave any resistance as wickets fell around him. When he was eventually bowled for 35 by Chadwick, the writing was on the wall. Banfield set an attacking field trying to get the final wicket, with three slips and three short legs. The ploy paid off as Wild took a return catch to claim the victory as Capenhurst were all out for 99 with three overs remaining. Wild and Chadwick took five wickets each. Audlem gained 25 points and Capenhurst 4.

Next Saturday the 2nd XI travels to Bramhall to face Trinity.

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