2nd XI lose season opener

Audlem 2nd XI started the new Cheshire Cricket Alliance Division 4 season last Saturday with the long and ultimately fruitless trek to Glazebury.

Extreme conditions on the M6 and surrounding roads meant the game started with a 40-minute delay but stand-in skipper Paddy Leese had no hesitation in inviting the hosts to bat on a suspicious-looking pitch.

The inconsistent and two-paced wicket was a challenge all afternoon and Audlem soon had Glazebury at 29-3 thanks to three excellent catches, Toby Banfield's effort at cover already a contender for catch of the season. These were all from the bowling of Tom Kural who finished with 3 for 30. At the other end Rob Morrison and youngster Ronnie Farnell bowled accurately but without reward.

An excellent fourth wicket stand saw the score move to 87 before Toby Banfield removed Phil McCue (24), yorked on the second bounce. The experienced Sam Stanier continued to bat with confidence until Roy Wild was brought into the attack to start his 50th consecutive season in club cricket.

After being enticed forward Stanier was stumped by Leo North for 49 and Wild took the remaining wickets to finish with an excellent 6 for 17 as Glazebury were all out for 145 in 41 overs.

By now the divots in the pitch resembled a golf fairway. The pace of Matt Shailer (3 for 29) and the height of Chris Ayre (4 for 30) proved a menace throughout the innings. Leese (33) and Tom Kural (24) were the only batsmen to offer a serious challenge and despite spirited efforts from Paul Thorburn (12) and Wild (12) the innings subsided to 118 all out in 42 overs, helped along by 25 extras.

After the excellent finish to last season the seven points gained from the game were a disappointing start to the campaign.

The 2nd XI can quickly make amends tomorrow at the Gorse Croft when they entertain Rylands. The match starts at 1pm.

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