Thrilling Cricket Match Ends in Last Ball Victory

Audlem Sunday X1 .v. Springhill CC Sunday September 1

Audlem welcomed Springhill from Wolverhampton to The Gorse Croft for their first encounter on Sunday, September 1.

With thunder storms looming, skipper Ollie Banfield opted to bat first.

Despite an early wicket, youngsters Michael Burton and Berty Hardy both retired after scoring 52 and 53 respectively. Contributions from Andy Jackson (53), Ollie Banfield (23), and Dave Parkinson (16) brought Audlem to a formidable 251 for 4 before a storm interrupted play with 4.4 overs remaining.

After an early tea, standing water was cleared, and Banfield declared the innings, giving Springhill 40 overs to chase the target.

Openers L. Singh and S. Khan started strong, but Richard Irvine's bowling (8 overs, 1 for 17) broke their partnership. Singh retired after a half-century, and the middle order struggled to keep up the pace. Audlem gained control as Berty Hardy and Dave Parkinson took wickets at regular intervals.

However, an incredible last-wicket stand between Singh, who returned to the crease, and the number 11 batsman turned the tide. Singh scored an unbeaten 133, leading Springhill to victory on the final ball of the match.

Next Sunday, Audlem were scheduled to play Barrow CC from Chester, but due to their inability to raise a team, Wistaston will now be the guests at The Gorse Croft.