Hampshire 50+ vs Oxford 50+
Thurs 7 May 2009 at Tiddington, Oxford
ECB 50+ Friendly

Oxford 266-7
Hampshire 12-1
Match abandoned - rain

The Seniors second friendly fixture away to 2008 last 16 adversaries and eventual winners Oxford fell victim to the weather. Set in deepest Oxfordshire, a picturesque ground with red kites circling overhead – all looked set for an enjoyable afternoon as the hosts won the toss and elected to bat.

Debutant Les Orr and Barry Newton opened the bowling for the Seniors against the formidable pairing of Caunce and Evans who quickly put on 90 for the first wicket. The introduction of Goodman turned the game when he bowled Caunce (46) in his first over then immediately trapped the dangerous Manger (0). Well supported by Pat Wickson who snared Evans (42), Oxford were suddenly 131-5. Kelly (45*) and the Rev Wingfield Digby (57) then took command accumulating 116 for the 6th wicket before Orr came back to snap up two late wickets. On the downside the Seniors conceded 61 extras including 53 wides & no balls – winning matches will be difficult in the competition proper unless this trend is reversed!

It only remained for Ian Britton to clip a catch to square leg soon after tea before the rain closed in to end proceedings and deny the Seniors some valuable batting practice.

The Seniors final friendly is away to Bournemouth Wanderers on Sunday 17 May at Bournemouth Sports Club.

Dick Batchelor - Scorer

scoreboard