Youth News

U13 Match Report SNCLeague v Rocklands’ Royals (A) August 21st

A warm strong southerly wind swept the field. Ten minutes before the official match start and Mulbarton only had half a team - the elusive Rocklands cricket ground! However, Mulbarton won the toss and decided to field. Thanks must go to Sam Bartholomew and Jakob Marshall who stepped in whilst our latecomers orbited the village!

Captain Joshua opened the bowling with immediate effect, clean bowling a Rocklands opener. Alex, Dane, Will and Theo bowled with moderate economy but were unable to claim a wicket. Matthew Samson bowled well and sent the bails flying on his third ball. On his second over, Luke Matthews caught and bowled – spectacular in any match. Matthew’s Samson’s sharp pick up and throw at the stumps from long range ended a superb batting performance from the other Rocklands opener (53 run out). Later, Luke Matthews, although enabled Rockland’s batsmen to go for a cheeky second run, more than compensated, when his long distance throw, shuddered the stumps with incredible precision, claiming Mulbarton’s second run out wicket.

Mulbarton were set a target of 88 to win – quite attainable! Jonny Whitlock and Mattew Samson, a commendable opening partnership, scored nearly half of Mulbarton’s required runs. However, once they were out, Mulbarton struggled with the bat and were unable to achieve the necessary run rate for victory. Luke Matthews and Will Garson were both not out with 11 and 3 respectively. A great evening’s cricket from both teams!

Mulbarton lost by 19 runs.

U15 SNCLeague v Rocklands (H) August 3rd

Things could have been worse for Mulbarton with one man short and skipper George out third ball of the innings; but not a lot. A good knock from Thompson (25) helped to restore some respectability but Rocklands bowled and fielded well, particularly Bart (3 for 18). No other batsman managed double figures and the now familiar collapse meant that the rest of the team added just 19 runs between them before being all out in the eleventh over for their lowest score of the season.

In a rather unsporting gesture the visitors declined the request to loan a fielder exacerbating Mulbarton’s task of protecting its small total. Excellent opening spells from Bradley and George restricted the visitors to 20 off the first six overs but after this the options were strictly limited and the team became listless and deflated. Miller, who should have bowled more, again troubled the batsmen with Bradley taking a good catch off his bowling, but Etheridge (20) and Hinchcliff (16no) saw the visitors home with more than four overs to spare. JH

Mulbarton U13 v Tas Valley (A)

The evening stage was set for a good game of cricket in the warm, still air, bathed in brilliant sunshine – albeit this time of the year, shadows already lengthening! Mulbarton, having won the toss, put Tas Valley in to bat.

Joshua Bartholomew opened the bowling with intimidating good line and length - this fielding side meant business! Mulbarton’s bowling was truly formidable and they were rewarded accordingly. Wickets fell early due to clean bowling from Sam Morton, Matthew Samson and Dane Williams. Joshua Bartholomew took an excellent catch as the ball missiled towards him. Incredibly, 2 balls later, Matthew Samson caught at extremely close range, reacting with lightening speed . Tas Valley’s fate was sealed when William Garson took the final wicket on his fourth ball. Sam Morton’s awesome four wickets in one over haul, summed up his consistency throughout this season and in less than 25 minutes Tas Valley were all out for 24 in just 7.4 overs.

Mulbarton’s reply was swift, reaching the winning target of 25 runs in just 4.3 overs for the loss of 2 wickets.

Sharp fielding from this young and enthusiastic team shortened the match from the beginning and left our batsmen with very little to do. CS

Mulbarton won by 5 wickets.

U15 SNCLeague v Hardingham (A) August 16th

B.Falcon was the star of the Hardingham innings with an imperious 73 no against a rather off colour bowling attack from the visitors. Apart from Everett (2-10), who was excellent, Mulbarton generally bowled too short and wide and were punished accordingly by the rampant Falcon who was largely responsible for propelling the home side to a competitive 123 off their sixteen overs.

Having popped the coaching manual into the bin, Mulbarton’s George proceeded to bludgeon his way to a career best 87no whilst retaining the strike for most of the innings. This was just as well as his five partners’ mustered only 5 runs between them. Hardingham’s attack was also rather wayward but both B.Falcon (1-18) and F.Falcon (2-13) bowled well, the latter outstandingly for an eleven year old.

George should be grateful to the Hardingham grounds man who had produced a pitch of even bounce as he rode his luck to produce a thrilling and enormously entertaining victory with only two balls to spare.

Match facts: Hardingham 123 for 3. Mulbarton 124 for 4. Mulbarton won by 3 wickets.

U11 SNCLeague v Rocklands (H) August 2nd

There was much to shout about tonight not least that this U11 team looked the part in the field – good fielding, good backing up, mutual support but most of all a happy team!

Mulbarton won the toss and chose to bat – a variation on the tactic all season. To do this a team needs to be confident of posting a good total. This was eminently possible and started well with the openers of Sam Morton and Alfred Kidner. Sam Morton was caught with the total on 31 but having hit a six. This left a robust partnership of Alex Bainbridge and Alfred Kidner who found gaps in the field and ran well between the wickets. Alfred Kidner looked well in control and well deserved his 32 before being given out LBW. Two wickets down and the total on 60 - all looked good for a big total. However despite valiant efforts to force the runs only another 30 runs were added. This made it an achievable total for Rocklands.

This was the point when you see that this young team has potential. An all round fielding performance restricted the run rate considerably in the first few overs. Sam Paterson bowled with particular venom and deserved his 1 wicket for 4 runs. Not to be outdone, Harry Paterson bowled a maiden over in his first over and bowled one of the openers in his second. Hard to see who had the bragging rights in the Paterson household tonight. Daniel Philips bowled & fielded well and Jamie Wear looked confident behind the stumps. Special mention must be made of David Mathews who took two very good catches. The dependable Sam Morton took his 2 wickets at just the right time to break any sort of fluency in the Rocklands batting. NM

Batting: Sam Morton 18, Alfred Kidner 32, Alex Bainbridge 7, Sam Paterson 1, David Mathews 4 not out, Jamie Wear 9 not out. Bowling: Sam Paterson 1-4, Alfred Kidner 0-13, Harry Paterson 1-5, Daniel Phillips 0-5, Alex Bainbridge 0-9, Sam Morton 2-17, David Mathews 1-11
Mulbarton 90 for 4 off 16 overs; Rocklands 68 for 5 off 16 overs; Mulbarton win by 22 runs

U17 SNCLeague v Garboldisham (A) July 26th

It was south to Garboldisham under leaden skies for the last U17 league game of the season with the visitors soon on the back foot as Garby pummelled the wayward opening bowlers to all corners of this delightful ground; bringing up 50 by the sixth over. Mackenzie and Button eventually brought some stability to this mayhem removing Leech (15) and Phoenix (35) respectively, with the impressive Hogg (44) well run out in what was overall a sharp fielding effort. Only Youngson (16) made any impression after this with Gibbins (3 for 17) quickly removing the last three batsmen as Garboldisham were bowled out on the final ball for 130, well below what might have been.

Middle order collapses have been a feature of Mulbarton’s season and so they dispensed with this altogether choosing the cunning plan of abject failure instead; the batsmen employing a variety of novel and reckless ways to lose their wickets. Only Mackenzie (36no) batted with any sense of application as his partners traipsed back and forth; mustering between them a feeble total of just 35.

Mulbarton can take some solace from the fact that they fielded well and have been the only team to bowl their opponents out this season, but unfortunately all their hard work was undone by a disappointing and immature performance with the bat.

Match facts: Garboldisham 130 all out. Mulbarton 81 for 6. Garboldisham won by 49 runs.

U11 SNCLeague v Gt.Ellingham (A) July 21st

The onset of holidays allowed the U11 to field a slightly changed line up. Well done to Quin Arundel for getting his father to drive him to the match from their holiday in Southwold – we hope the drive back was shorter! The Mathews brothers joined the side as did Daniel Philips. They all played well and there was a definite team atmosphere from the start. You know it is going well when you hear the steady chatter between the players! Mulbarton won the toss and elected to field.

The highlights were a wicket off his 1st ball for Daniel Philips, some good spin bowling from Tom Osborn and some very accurate bowling from David Mathews. Sam Bartholomew behind the stumps was in control and vocal in his encouragement. There were a couple of boundaries saved by chasing the ball to the line. Gt Ellingham were helped to a respectable score by a 41 not out by their opening bat. Respectable but easily attainable.

An early wicket on the 4th ball saw Callum Arthurs trudge back bemoaning getting his bat stuck in his pads and being bowled. Not the start we wanted but Sam Bartholomew (with Lucky Duck) joined Sam Morton in the middle and between them took the score to 12 before Sam B was given out LBW. David Mathews, as an unknown quantity, entered the fray. It was a delight to watch his innings take shape and it was sad to see him lose his wicket to an excellent catch on the boundary. Tom Osborn did not have much to do but help guide the team to victory as only 7 runs were required for victory off 2.3 overs. The backbone of this win was the captain’s innings by Sam Morton who batted from start to finish and well deserved his 31 not out. It is obvious that he much prefers this type of cricket to Pairs Cricket.

A creditable performance and the beginnings of another U11 team for next year.

Bowling: Quin Arundel 0-14, Callum Arthurs 1-17, Tom Osborn 0-7, David Mathews 0-5, Sam Morton 1-8, Daniel Phillips 2-14, Ethan Mathews 0-21

Batting: Sam Morton 31 not out, Callum Arthurs 0, Sam Bartholomew 9, David Mathews 18, Tom Osborn 2 not out

Gt Ellingham 87 for 4 off 16 overs, Mulbarton 89 for 3 off 14.5 overs; Mulbarton win

Defeat in the Alliance Quarter Finals

Monday evening in Fakenham – just what most parents needed (not) but it was good to see the travelling support. We lost the toss and got to bat. It started well but the loss of wickets later on flattered the opposition. What actually mattered most to the coaches was that there was a desire to play cricket amongst this young team. They were united throughout the match and instead of wandering off whilst others batted sat and supported as a group. We were very proud to see this. Whilst we now come to expect performances from the more established players it was good to see the effort put in by the new ones such as Alfred Kidner and Harry Williams.

254 was not a total that was going to be big enough but we hoped. This hope was extinguished when their opener scored 43 not out in 4 overs. We had to wait until the 6th over when Sam Morton took 2 wickets in his 1st over but the task was too big by this stage. This did not stop effort right to the last ball. There was balls saved from boundaries, great backing up and nearly a run out but it was the 14th over before Tom Williams got a deserved LBW decision.

Fakenham were deserved winners but the Mulbarton U11s can be proud to have reached the last 8 in the competition.

Batting: Tom Osborn 2 (outx1), Tom Williams 9, Sam Morton 10, Matthew Samson 13, Sam Bartholomew 7 (outx1), Alfred Kidner 9 (outx1), Callum Arthurs 8 (outx1) Harry Williams 7 (outx4)
Bowling: Matthew Samson 0-27, Callum Arthurs 0-17, Tom Williams 1-22, Tom Osborn 0-29, Alfred Kidner 0-11, Sam Morton 2-16, Harry Williams 0-9

Mulbarton 294 for 8 (net 254), Fakenham 332 for 3 (net 317); Fakenham win by 63 runs

U13 SNCLeague v Cringleford (A) Wednesday July 14th

The opposition was ready, pitch was prepared but we were one man short! Thank goodness for cricketing sisters! Lucy Morton came on for 3 overs in the field whilst the absent member was found and transported to the game. She did a good job so it was a shame she had to come off.

Alex Pocklington had taken over the captaincy for the match and started by winning the toss – good news as we got to field first. It was all going far too well when the in form Theo Lynds took the openers wicket for 0 with his 2nd ball. The bowling was better than last week but the fielding was lacklustre. We need to get energy into this aspect of the game as there were at least 3 possible catches if we had wanted them. Their 3rd batsman got into the groove rapidly collecting 53 runs before being given out LBW and with their 4th batsman getting 31 not out a respectable score of 103 was achieved. Luke Matthews in his second match for the club fielded well in the deep and with his bowling improving every time he plays will be a valuable asset.

The batting needed a start with some urgency and that is what we got from Jonny Whitlock. He scored a very good 45 before unluckily losing his wicket by being caught behind. Once this tone had been set the others followed, Alex Pocklington with 6 but this was achieved by backing up Jonny with some quick running. Matthew Samson looked in his element and pushed some lovely balls to the boundary and it only left Sam Morton to help him ease the team to victory.

Well done, lads.

Bowling: Theo Lynds 1-9, Luke Matthews 0-14, Ed Hodges 0-11, Alex Pocklington 0-7, Sam Morton 1-16, Matthew Samson 0-26, Will Garson 1-18
Batting: Jonny Whitlock 45, Ed Hodges 0, Alex Pocklington 6, Matthew Samson 31 not out, Sam Morton 7 not out
Cringleford 103 for 3 off 16 overs; Mulbarton 104 for 3 off 13.3 over;

Mulbarton won by 4 wickets

Match Report. U17 v Bunwell (H)

Having failed to chase down targets in the past, Mulbarton chose to bat first against visitors Bunwell. With both teams propping up the bottom of the table a win would prove welcome for either.

This was a pretty disappointing game though with the standard of bowling by the visitors well below par; littered with the amount of extras (56) that would make even an under 11 team blush. Mulbarton attacked the balls they could reach posting a reasonable total off their sixteen overs.

An U17 game though would not be complete without a Mulbarton middle order collapse and the home side did not disappoint, losing unnecessary wickets at a time when they should have been pushing on and taking the game well beyond their opponent’s grasp. Only Mackenzie (40) and Button (31) performed satisfactorily in an order that is capable of much more.

Fortunately though, Bunwell couldn’t bat either, and lost wickets regularly throughout their innings failing even to see out their overs. The home side did field and bowl well but this was a one sided contest with the visitors again out of their depth in this league having failed to garner a single point from their three games.

Match facts: Mulbarton 146 for 5, Bunwell 51 all out. Mulbarton won by 95 runs.

Schools Cricket

Established as one of the most popular events of the year, pupils from Mulbarton Junior School took to the field for their annual kwik cricket tournament; part of their continuing partnership with Mulbarton Cricket Club.

Now in its ninth year, the tournament has become an established fixture in the school calendar with 170 children competing over the two days.

On day one the lower school provided some entertaining and competitive cricket in an event where consideration for others and good sportsmanship is as important as the quality of play. The two groups of four sides battled it out in some closely contested games with four teams finishing on equal points before Bees and Wasps met in the final at the end of the afternoon.

In a close game which could have gone either way, Bees eventually overwhelmed the opposition to secure a well earned win.

Matthew Copping, the school’s PGCE student and keen cricket lover, umpired some off the games and presented the prizes to the winning team at the end of an enjoyable day.

It was the upper school’s turn on the following morning and with the children older and stronger there was much big hitting on view occasioning several delays while balls were retrieved from hedges. With cricket an established part of the school’s summer curriculum, there were some outstanding performances from many of the pupils.

Owls, winners from last year, met St.Johns, both teams having won all of their group games, in a high scoring final. Owls battled well but some big hitting from their opponents left them just short of retaining the title with St.Johns deserved winners after another excellent day’s sport.

Diane Jones, head of the upper school, presented the prizes to the worthy winners. Many thanks are due to older members of the Cricket Club, all ex pupils of the school, who gave up their time over the two days to umpire and score the games.

U13 v Gt.Melton Match Report Thursday July 8th (H)

Perfect weather, dry pitch and even hot air balloons gently making their way overhead was not enough to get this U13 side motivated against an organised and capable Gt Melton side. We lost the toss and got to field first which had been our intention. All well so far ...

Our bowling was erratic and way off target which allowed the top 4 batsmen to take easy boundaries and plenty of quick singles. There was a lack of urgency in the field with very few having the notion to back up the wicketkeeper on every occasion and not just when a run out was a possibility. The only bowlers who showed any form of line and length were Matthew Samson, Theo Lynds and Sam Morton. Sam was rewarded with 2 wickets and would have had a third but for a dropped catch at point. The team collected the third wicket with a run out off the bowling of Will Garson. The fielding side has to attack the batsmen and this just did not happen tonight.

The total of 136 was not unattainable but after getting to the end of the 3rd over with the score on 22 for 4 this looked highly unlikely. This found the U11 duo of Matthew Samson and Sam Morton at the wicket. The bowling had been quick and accurate which in a way makes it easier to play. This is exactly what these two did in their very different styles. Matthew lost his wicket in the 9th over on 15 and Sam in the 12th over on 20 but at least they had stopped the rot and given a semblance of respectability to the score. We had welcomed Luke Matthews to the team for his 1st appearance and were looking forward to his batting but unluckily he never had the chance to face a ball. There is always next week, Luke!

Bowling: Josh Bartholomew 0-29, Matthew Samson 0-16, Sam Morton 2-21, Luke Matthews 0-26, Theo Lynds 0-9, Will Garson 0-18, Alex Pocklington 0-15

Batting: Alex Pocklington 0, Theo Lynds 0, Josh Bartholomew 1, Matthew Samson 15, Jonny Whitlock 0, Sam Morton 20, Will Garson 1, Luke Matthews 0 not out

Great Melton 136 for 3 off 16 overs, Mulbarton 70 for 7 off 13.2 overs

Great Melton win by 66 runs

U17 SNC League v Old Buckenham July 5th 2010

 Looking for their first win in this league against visitors Old Buckenham, Mulbarton despatched both openers with good spells from Batch and Whitlock by the fifth over. Long and Anthony should have joined them soon after but both were dropped from consecutive balls off the unlucky Whitlock in the next over. Although Anthony went soon afterwards, Long capitalised on his good luck to provide the backbone of the Bucks total with 53no. Having kept a lid on the scoring early in the innings, Mulbarton conceded 52 from the last five overs as Bucks finished on 126.

Initially well up with the rate in reply, Gibbins top scored with 33 but Old Buckenham bowled well, with Thompson (3 for 11) particularly destructive, pitching the ball up and making life difficult for the home side. The frustration was evident as wickets tumbled; what had initially seemed an attainable total gradually receded into the distance as the Mulbarton challenge fell away leaving Old Buckenham comfortable winners.

Match facts: Old Buckenham 126 for 5. Mulbarton 101 for 6. Old Buckenham won by 25 runs.

U15 SNC League v Tas Valley (A) July 1st

Put into bat Tas made a torrid start losing both Woodward and Wistel to George and Pocklington respectively before double figures were on the board. An excellent partnership of 84 between Adams (32no) and Hutt (35) rebuilt the innings but Mulbarton bowled and fielded particularly well in stark contrast to their rather limp efforts in the last game, before Hutt was dismissed last ball to restrict the home side to 89. Although Tas batted well, they passed over the opportunity of extra runs by their over cautious approach in the final few overs.

On this small ground with its scorched outfield this was a challenging total to defend and George (58no) hit a brutal half century taking Mulbarton halfway towards their target by the end of the fourth over. Worryingly though, he received little support from his partners and an extra thirty runs might have made the contest really interesting. There was some success for the bowlers taking three wickets with Wilson (1 for 15) particularly impressive, but despite the best efforts of Tas in the field, George and his partner Miller reached the target with more than six overs to spare.
JH

Match facts: Tas Valley 89 for 3 (16 overs). Mulbarton 90 for 3 (9.3 overs).

A shorter version of this report appears on the South Norfolk Community League website.

Schools Partnership Cricket Days Tuesday July 6th and Wednesday July 7th - Orchard Park

We are again running our highly successful all day kwik cricket competition for all pupils of Mulbarton Junior School over the above two days.

Approximately 90 children will be playing in eight teams on what are hugely enjoyable days for children and helpers alike.

As is traditional, older members volunteer to umpire and score the games throughout the day for which a small disbursement is paid. Often this valuable experience can count towards Duke of Edinburgh and similar schemes.

Please let me know whether you would like to take part in this on one or both days. You will need to be at the ground by 8.30 to help set up and we shall be finished by 3.30.

Places are limited so please let me know as soon as possible.

U11 Alliance v Swardeston

The opposition lost the toss and so we elected to field which has been the preferred option this season – at least you know what you are aiming at! Another glorious June evening – warm, dry and a slowly setting sun. It would have been perfect with a pavilion and a ready source of beverages (note Parish Council!). Thanks to Jane Morton and her portable coffee urn all parents were offered a coffee.

This was always going to be a test for our up and coming side to how far they had come this season. It was pleasing to see the keenness to do well amongst the whole side but it was quickly apparent that this Swardeston side was well drilled and was not going to assume a victory (which really was an accolade to Mulbarton and the U11’s growing reputation). The opposition were quick to take the single but the damage really was done by the last 2 pairs who put on the majority of the total. However, wickets were difficult to obtain thus giving them confidence to play shots to the boundary. Only Sam Morton with one LBW decision and a caught and bowled cracked the Swardeston defence. Tom Williams succeeded with a run out off his bowling in the last over to make the score somewhat achievable.

Swardeston’s bowling was good – quick and well pitched up. This combined with a nervousness to do well resulted in some early wickets. This was a shame as so out of character for our early batsmen. At one point, there was a concern amongst spectators as to the location of “Lucky Duck” but we were reassured to be told it was in Sam B’s pocket! Once the outcome of the match seemed assured we saw some spirited batting with Tom Osborn hitting 2 good boundaries and Tom Williams putting an energy back into a side with some energetic running and calling. Matthew Samson and Sam Paterson had the herculean task of needing a boundary off every ball but gave it a good go. Sam P was hit on the leg and sustained a shuddering ball to his helmet grill but after a readjustment of his equipment batted on as if this was normal cricket. The game finished with the pair running 5 off an overthrow – if only that had happened earlier in the game.

The better side won but the U11s were not disgraced and should go to the final Alliance group match next Tuesday with a confidence that they are a good team of young cricketers.

Bowling: Sam Paterson 0-6, Alfred Kidner 0-8, Tom Osborn 0-12, Alex Bainbridge 0-9, Sam Morton 2-15, Matthew Samson 0-34, Tom Williams 1 (run out)-30

Batting: Alfred Kidner 5 out x2, Alex Bainbridge 5 out x2, Sam Morton 5 out x1, Sam Bartholomew 4, Tom Osborn 10 out x1, Tom Williams 7, Matthew Samson 10, Sam Paterson 8

Swardeston 320 (305 net); Mulbarton 289 (net 259)

Swardeston win by 46 runs

It’s not all about winning

The U11 SNCL team travelled to Great Melton CC for an evening of cricket in idyllic surroundings. Warm weather, great pitch and an evening sun meant this match was well attended by parents. It was good to see the mix of parents on the boundary and the applause to good cricket rather than tribal loyalties.

The opening pair of Sam Morton and Callum Arthurs batted steadily until the 6th over when Callum was bowled playing across a straight ball. This allowed Sam Bartholomew to join the other Sam at the crease.

Normally this is an exciting pairing of Sams but not tonight. Apparently this was because Sam Bs lucky plastic duck did not stay in his pocket but really because he was beaten by a good ball from Ben Carding that caught him LBW. The rapidly improving Alfred Kidner took over and played some lovely strokes but could not move the score on enough to be competitive against this good Gt Melton side. Jamie Wear came in at 75 for 3 and did well in adding valuable runs. Sam Morton carried his bat through all 16 overs and warmed to the task as he got his eye in.

It was apparent fielding and bowling had to be tight – one out of two wasn’t bad! The fielding was good but some loose bowling was found out and despatched quickly to the boundary (although 8 fours by Mulbarton was only just beaten by 9 fours from Gt Melton) or to gaps in the leg side field of which these are quite large when playing 8 a side. That said, Mulbarton only gave away 17 extras to Gt Melton’s 26. Sam Bartholomew took the important wicket of Carding but chances were scarce. One catch was dropped but otherwise chances were not to be. Greenslade 51 not out and R Smith 14 not out managed to reach the Mulbarton score with 5.3 overs to spare.

Some useful lessons were learnt tonight which is as it should be!

Batting: Sam Morton 31 not out, Callum Arthurs 8, Sam Bartholomew 3, Alfred Kidner 12, Jamie Wear 3 not out

Bowling: Alfred Kidner 0-9, Sam Bartholomew 1-10, Sam Morton 0-9, Callum Arthurs 0-25, Quin Arundel 0-11, Tom Osborn 0-5, Tom Williams 0-2

Mulbarton 83 for 3 off 16 overs; Great Melton 84 for 1 off 10.3 overs

Great Melton win by 6 wickets

Mulbarton make heavy work of it after promising start

A maiden half century by George (55), well supported by his opening partner Whitlock (22), gave the home side a perfect platform for a large score against visitors Gt.Ellingham. Mulbarton were looking good with 74 on the board by the eighth over before these two departed in quick succession; George caught and Whitlock bowled. Thompson (30no) helped keep the score moving but good bowling combined with excellent ground fielding by the visitors slowed the rate and Thompson’s partners made only the briefest appearances at the other end. When a total of 150 had easily looked possible at one stage, Mulbarton had to settle for 127. Clark (2 for 18) and Thomson (2 for 17) bowled particularly well.

It should have been enough though with Bradley and Everett’s accurate opening spells stifling the run rate. At the halfway mark Ellingham still needed 83 and a comfortable win for Mulbarton looked the most likely outcome. Whitlock also bowled well but the rest of the attack lacked control and the rate accelerated helped by the profligacy of extras (51- yes, fifty one). It was an edgy finish with Lake (43) looking particularly threatening. With 31 required off the last two overs a win looked a real possibility for the visitors. But in the end it was just too much and Mulbarton were lucky to scrape home by 6 runs with Lake caught last ball by Thompson off his own bowling. JH

Many thanks to Nigel Bradley for scoring this game and to those who stayed behind to help clear up - it is much appreciated.

Match facts: Mulbarton 127 for 6. Gt.Ellingham 121 for 5. Mulbarton won by 6 runs.

A Good Win for the U11s in the SNC League

The weather was more conducive to football in October than cricket in June! That said, a hardy band of parents turned up to watch the SNCL U11 team play their match against Topcroft. All that can be said positive about the weather was it did not rain.

Mulbarton lost the toss and were made to bat first. Normally this is a disadvantage but the pair of Sam’s (Bartholomew & Morton ) took their time taking the score to 44 in the 8th over before Sam Morton played on to his own stumps. This allowed Sam Paterson to come on and add some urgency to the run rate with his brand of quick running between the stumps. The arrival of Alex Bainbridge at the crease saw some loose balls heaved to the boundary in an effective batting performance. The 3rd wicket was lost in the 14th over of this 16 over match so Alfred Kidner had little chance to shine although resounding calling by him left the spectators in no doubt as to his intentions. This took Mulbarton to 98 for 3 off their allotted 16 overs.

To win this match the team had to bowl accurately as it was apparent that the previous day’s rain had deadened the pitch such that most balls were staying low. There was a good effort to stay lively in the field which was difficult because of the cold and the inability of the Topcroft batting to score off the bat. There were few chances to shine in the field and as such all 6 Topcroft wickets were bowled. Alex Bainbridge with his left handed bowling is such a useful addition to the bowling attack that it was good to see him bowl a maiden over. Sam Morton extended his wicket tally with a double wicket maiden. The newcomer to the team, Harry Paterson, also showed he merited his place with some well directed bowling. The match finished appropriately with a wicket on the last ball giving Sam Paterson a deserved wicket. Topcroft finished on 68 for 6.

Batting: Sam Morton 13, Sam Bartholomew 14, Sam Paterson 5, Alex Bainbridge 17 not out, Alfred Kidner 3 not out.

Bowling: Sam Paterson 1-14, Alfred Kidner 1-8, Sam Morton 2-3, Alex Bainbridge 0-5, Harry Paterson 0-13, Tom Osborn 1-15, Tom Williams 1-9

Mulbarton won by 30 runs

U17 SNC League v Diss (A) Wednesday June 16th

Grass or plastic? Unfortunately, despite the large amount of beautiful grass strips - plastic and the Diss boys having been put into bat on the small ground with a short boundary simply hit through the line of the ball giving Mulbarton’s opening attack a real pasting. There were some loose balls it was true but this surface gave the bowlers no help at all with anything less than perfect severely punished. Mulbarton fielded energetically but Spinks (40), Blakely (31) and C.Pask (59), had 107 on the board by the half way mark and a massive score looked likely. But Mulbarton kept going and good catches from Mackenzie and a corker from Wilford, along with wickets for Batch, Culling and Gibbins, pegged the home side back as they managed only a further 66 off their remaining eight overs to reach 173; an achievable total on this small ground.

The visitors needed a good start but Gibbins was back in the pavilion before the end of the first over top edging a ball to the keeper. George (22) and Mackenzie (65) put on 67 for the second wicket before George perished in the same manner as Gibbins. Well behind the rate now Mackenzie pushed on but his partners came and went before he himself was caught. A plucky innings of 13no at the end from Batch kept some pressure on but there was too much to do and Mulbarton finished 29 short of their target in a pulsating and exhilarating game.

Match facts: Diss 173 for 4. Mulbarton 144 for 5. Diss won by 29 runs.

Surprisingly close finish!

 The sun was shining, the pitch dry but a biting wind to ensure the coffee urn was emptied was what welcomed our visitors from Gt Ellingham. The prospect of an U13 cricket match seemed a nice way to end the day.

The opposition won the toss and elected to field which was what Mulbarton had planned to do as well. At this level, it is always easier to chase the runs – or that is the theory! The opening pair of Jonny Whitlock and Theo Lynds started with purpose but lost their wickets cheaply in the 1st and 2nd overs which left the team struggling on 13 for 2 at the end of the 3rd over. This was a shame as both can bat and at U13 there are no second chances. The sight of Josh Bartholomew striding to the wicket evokes a feeling of hope rather than anticipation but tonight was his night with a resounding 29 that included four 4s and a 6. At this point his pairing with the always reliable Matthew Samson appeared to redeem the score. However, Matthew Samson was bowled on 9 and the attacking batting sort of petered out after this. Ed Hodges had a go with another useful 9 but a total of 76 was never going to be enough – or so we thought.

The first two batsmen for Gt Ellingham scored 25 and 15 apiece but very slowly! By the 7th over they had only scored 18 runs. It was as if it was the first day of a 5 day Test match. Unluckily opposition paternal support urged a more aggressive response and the rate picked up. There was too much short pitched bowling by Mulbarton. On the positive side, Matthew Samson bowled 2 maiden overs. Sam Morton, reliable as ever, took a wicket in each of his three overs as well as having a run out from a good throw by Josh B off his bowling. Theo Lynds was rewarded with a wicket in his 2nd over with another well pitched up ball. At the end, we sat and hoped for a miracle but Gt Ellingham scraped home to a deserved victory.

Nothing to be ashamed of tonight but we know we can do better.

Batting: Jonny Whitlock 1, Theo Lynds 2, Josh Bartholomew 29, Matthew Samson 9, Alex Pocklington 6, Dane Williams 2, Ed Hodges 9, Sam Morton 2 NO

Bowling: Matthew Samson 0-0, Ed Hodges 0-7, Dane Williams 0-6, Josh Bartholomew 0-20, Sam Morton 3-9, Theo Lynds 1-15, Alex Pocklington 0-23

Mulbarton 76 for 7 off 16 overs; Gt Ellingham 80 for 5 off 15 overs ; Win for Gt Ellingham

Resounding win for Mulbarton U11s

We have said it before but teams win matches not individuals – this U11 team exemplifies this. Coaches, parents and siblings left the Garboldisham CC very, very proud of this team. The opposition commented how sporting a side they were in their victory and whilst applying themselves to the task in hand did not gloat but displayed everything that is good about cricket. Well done lads!

Matthew Samson won the toss and sensibly elected to field. In his first over Matthew took 2 wickets, the fielding was sharp and the team as one! At the end of the 1st pair 18 runs made but 3 wickets taken. The third wicket taken by Sam Paterson. Normally in this level LBWs are rarely given but this match saw 4 very plumb decisions. This was because the bowling was on line and well pitched up. The 2nd pair took the score to 28 but lost a further 3 wickets. A double wicket maiden by Sam Morton in his first over stopped the momentum and an LBW decision for Tom Williams broke the opposition spirit. Not to be outdone Tom “Ozzie” Osborn took a wicket maiden and run out in his first over with his special brand of looping ball. The 3rd pair took the score valiantly to 43 but lost a further 4 wickets including 2 run outs. Sam Bartholomew had taken over as wicket keeper for this match and had an outstanding game. He was everything the team needed – nippy, agile and alert to the slightest opportunity. The last pair had a herculean task but took the score to 70 despite Sam Morton taking each of their wickets.

The Mulbarton team had only 10 runs to make to win the match and so were given instructions to play sensibly and try not to lose any wickets at all. The 1st pair of Sam Bartholomew and Sam Morton took the score to 18 for the loss of one wicket. Alfred Kidner and Tom Williams strode in with the enthusiasm that we expect! They ignored their coach’s advice thankfully and showed the opposition where the boundary was by hitting eight 4s. Not to be outdone the next pair of Matthew Samsom and Sam Paterson hit six 4s and one 6. By the time Callum Arthurs and Tom Osborn went in it was game over but they added a further 16 runs in entertaining style.

Garboldisham 270 for the loss of 12 wickets (net 210)

Mulbarton 323 for the loss of 4 wickets (net 303)

Mulbarton won by 93 runs

Samson 18 for 2, Paterson 9 for 1, Kidner 7 for 0, Williams 6 for 1, Morton 11 for 4, Arthurs 8 for 0 and Osborn 8 for 2 ( 2 run outs)

Morton 3 out x1, Bartholomew 5, Kidner 18 out x1, Williams 17 out x1, Samson 31 out x1, Paterson 11, Osborn 11, Arthurs 5

Mulbarton U10s at Topcroft Tournament

Mulbarton Under 10’s visited Topcroft on Sunday to defend the cup which they won so well last year. Our team was very inexperienced but they preformed brilliantly to win their knock out league, win their semi final before narrowly losing to Topcroft A in the final.

Early on (we started at 10am) it looked as though the weather might conspire to prevent the day from finishing. Gradually the sun appeared and the spectators were able to remove their coats, don their shades and enjoy a pitch side BBQ. Mulbarton’s first game was against local rivals Garboldisham, who were also fielding an inexperienced side. Mulbarton won the toss, elected to field first and then in reply to Garboldisham’s innings knocked up a very respectable 266 runs to win whilst only losing 1 wicket.

An almost identical match followed against Rocklands where we fielded first, then scored 265 for 1 wicket and ran out fairly comfortable winners.

In the final match of the knock out stage, Mulbarton beat Topcroft B, where for the third time we fielded first and scored 260 for 2 to win comfortably by 36 runs. So we managed to top 260 runs gross in each of the league games – an excellent batting performance. There were also some very good bowling performances whilst the fielding was very energetic – great to see in such a young side, with lots of encouragement and backing up.

This meant we were now due to play the runners up in the other league – Sprowston. Sprowston were a strong side and having won the toss they elected to bat scoring 237 – 4 (net 217). In a nervy second innings Mulbarton were ahead of the required score by 7 at the beginning of the last over. The last 2 batsmen (under strict instructions from a certain Dr Morton) defended stoutly for the remaining 6 balls to ensure we did not lose a wicket and, lo and behold, we found ourselves in the final for the second year running by scoring 228 WITHOUT losing a single wicket!!!.

The final took place on the main pitch in front of quite a gathering against Topcroft A. Mulbarton won the toss and for the 5th consecutive game fielded first. Topcroft got off to a very good start with two very strong opening batsmen. Mulbarton were finding it difficult to get wickets and Topcroft batted very sensibly to ensure the task was even harder. After their 8 overs, Topcroft posted a final score of 248 for 1, which left Mulbarton a very difficult target to hit. To their credit the young Mulbarton team batted very well but were unable to pierce some very good field settings to hit the boundaries to ease their task. Eventually Mulbarton completed their innings on 242 for 2 which meant they had lost by a mere 11 runs.

A very enjoyable day was completed when the boys received their runners up medals to tremendous applause from all the spectators. It had been very close and a win would have capped the day but it was not to be. The biggest thing for the young team was the experience of competitive cricket and the nerve jangling moments it can bring. Well done to:-

Tom Williams (Capt), Harry Paterson, Daniel Philips, Quin Arundel, Harry Williams, James Anderson Brown, Nathan Howell, Callum Stirling and Josh Foulger. (MW)

Job done in one-sided game

After the turgid and rather inept performance by England in the Fifa World Cup the previous evening, if it was entertainment you were after, Orchard Park on the Sunday morning was not the place to be.

In an U11 game between two completely mismatched teams, this was an encounter that provided nothing for either side; for Mundford the impossibility of a win and for Mulbarton the total lack of any meaningful match practise before their tougher and altogether more challenging games to come in this league.

Batting first against an erratic attack bloated with extras, Mulbarton moved steadily towards an invincible 323 for 5, although this was three wickets too many and thirty runs too few. The reliable Samson (20no) and the improving Bartholomew (10no) were good value but Paterson (22no) stole the show with his audacious stroke play and aggressive quick running between the wickets.

With tiny Luke felled in the first over and retiring hurt, the Mundford innings followed suit. This was embarrassing stuff and there were wickets for almost all of the bowlers. It was job done but the fielding was languid and 37 far too many extras in a performance that perhaps, bearing in mind the unbalanced nature of the contest, justifiably lacked any urgency or motivation.

JH

Match facts: Mulbarton 323 for 5 (net 298). Mundford 252 for 8 (net 207). Mulbarton won by 86 runs.

Samson (20no & 1for2), J.Wear (5no), S.Morton (5 outx1 & 3for8), S.Bartholomew (10no & 1for2), C.Arthurs (2 outx2 & 1for10), T.Osborn (2 outx1, 0for5), S.Paterson (22no & 0for8), A.Kidner (5 outx1 & 1for6).

U13 Girls v Garboldisham June 9th 2010

Asked to bat first after losing the toss the Mulbarton innings started brightly with M.Bird (8) and C.Bond putting on 24 for the first pair. Good contributions followed from all of the others with S.Leek (27) and R.Armes (24) particularly impressive. These large scores along with much improved running between the wickets propelled the Mulbarton score to an impressive 323 for the loss of just one wicket (net 318). Bessie was pick of the visitors’ attack with her three overs costing just 16.

Garboldisham matched Mulbarton run for run until the twelfth over but crucially lost four wickets; two run outs, a good catch by Leek and one bowled. Needing 64 off the last four overs was a herculean task and that they managed 36 was largely credit to an entertaining innings of 20 from C.Evans.

This was a cohesive effort from both teams which provided an entertaining evening enjoyed by a large and appreciative crowd. (jh)

Match facts; Mulbarton 323 for 1 (net 318). Garboldisham 311 for 4 (net 291). Mulbarton won by 27 runs.

Team: M.Bird (8no & 0-16), I.Bird (10no & 0-13), B.Bird (3 & 0-9), C.Bond (0no & 0-15), L.Morton (1no & 0-18), S.Leek (27no & 0-15), R.Armes (24no & 1-10), M.George (4no & 1-14

“Pride in Defeat”

The day started well with Josh Bartholomew winning the toss and electing to field. This was a sensible decision in that the team would know what total to aim for, or that was the logic that prevailed.

Garboldisham had a strong side who knew how to exploit the many spaces created by 8 a side cricket. Their openers scored 55 and 12 apiece. It was obvious that they had a good eye for the ball and had power behind their strokes so any loose ball was punished. The Mulbarton side showed the opposition how to field preventing a number of boundaries with enthusiastic dives and getting their bodies behind the ball. Sam Morton managed to bowl Taylor (55) with a well pitched up ball and suddenly there was light at the end of the tunnel (a long one as the score was 65 for 1 after 6 overs). However it took until the 9th over for Jonny Whitlock to take a catch behind off Sam Bartholomew’s bowling to get the 2nd opener out. The 3rd and 4th batsmen scored 28 and 34 NO to establish a high score for this level of cricket. Theo Lynds lifted the gloom with a well bowled first ball to take the wicket of Snowling (28) but by now the score was 125. Matthew Samson was rewarded for some good bowling with an LBW decision in the last over.

It was going to take some committed batting to prevent a comprehensive defeat. This is what we got with the opening pair of Jonny Whitlock and Ed Hodges batting through to the 6th over before Ed Hodges was bowled. Jonny Whitlock batted with style and purpose and should be well pleased with his contribution. Matthew Samson came in at No 3 and picked up the pace of running between the wicket taking the score to 74 before being bowled in the 11th over. Josh Bartholomew tried valiantly to maintain the momentum with two well hit boundaries. What he lacks in style he made up with sheer effort. However stepping across the wicket earned him an easy LBW decision. This left the remainder of the batting 3 overs to make up 67 runs which was clearly not going to happen so it was nice to see the team make a collective decision to ensure they got into 3 figures.

Garboldisham are a strong U13 side and Mulbarton with three U11s were always going to struggle but what was good to see was the effort, concentration and good humour exhibited by Mulbarton.

Bowling: Matthew Samson 1-40, Josh Bartholomew 0-35, Ed Hodges 0-22, Sam Morton 1-9, Sam Bartholomew 1-21, Will Garson 0-19, Theo Lynds 1-17.

Batting: Jonny Whitlock 36, Ed Hodges 5, Matthew Samson 16, Josh Bartholomew 9, Sam Morton 3 NO, Will Garson 3, Sam Bartholomew 0 NO (Theo Lynds DNB)

Garboldisham 159 for 3, Mulbarton 102 for 5; Garboldisham won by 57 runs.

Spirited start to girls' competition

It needed something special to drag us all up to Orchard Park on an evening better suited to a quiet snooze in a comfy chair. And it was special; the very first girls' league game at The Club against Old Buckenham.

Put into bat, the visitors made steady if unspectacular progress towards a competitive total of which nearly three quarters were extras. They made 31 off the bat but more importantly only lost two wickets. Hayley was top scorer with a solid 11 not out.

Mulbarton's reply followed pretty much the same pattern and with 46 runs needed off the final four overs, a victory for Old Buckenham looked certain.

They hadn't reckoned on Rosie Armes (21 no) though who bought the game to life clubbing two sixes and two fours in an over that cost 24 runs. Suddenly the crowd were interested again as a last gasp win looked possible, but unfortunately the dashing cavalier spent most of the remaining three overs marooned at the non strikers end and Buckenham, taking two late wickets, were able to cling on with eight runs to spare.

JH

Old Buckenham 306 for 2 (net 296). Mulbarton 313 for 5 (net 288). Old Buckenham won by 8 runs.

Mulbarton out of sorts

Tip and run anyone?

Well of course not. But no one had told Saxlingham who, put into bat by the visitors, set about plundering the Mulbarton bowling with quick calling and running between the wickets; impressive stuff. Helped in their task by sloppy fielding, the second pair of Fleming (58) and Bailey (25) put on 84 for the second wicket. With 100 on the board by the tenth over, even after these two were removed by Rhatigan and Pocklington respectively, the momentum continued as the home side finished on an impressive 146.

Where Mulbarton had been lethargic in the field, the home side were bursting with energy. After George (7) was run out by a direct hit and Whitlock (12) dismissed to an astonishing reaction catch at mid off there was only ever going to be one result. Bradley batted tenaciously for his 19 before Mulbarton’s reply fizzled out only halfway towards the target.

JH

Match facts: Saxlingham 146 for 5. Mulbarton 73 for 5. Saxlingham won by 73 runs. Many thanks to Karen Bartholomew for scoring the game.

A very hot morning’s cricket!

A warm welcome was extended to us by our hosts, Old Buckenham, when the U11s travelled to play their 3rd match in the Alliance League. Their ground is everything we could wish for and with the near perfect weather made for more relaxed parental support.

Matthew Samson as captain won the toss and elected to put Old Buckenham into bat. This was an astute move as it turned out. We had our doubts when the 1st pair posted a total of 28 and the hard ground meant well hit shots went some distance. The team adapted and kept their concentration despite the very hot weather. Mention must be made of Tom Osborn who bowled 2 maiden overs and would have had a wicket maiden if Jamie Wear had managed to keep the ball in his brand new wicket keeping gloves! Their second pair put on 11 runs, their 3rd pair 11 runs and their last pair 19 runs. However, it should be noted that all but 16 of the last 3 pairs were from extras.

The target was easily achievable so the team were under instructions to take it steadily and not to give away wickets unnecessarily. The 1st pair of Sam Morton/Sam Bartholomew did just that taking the total to 19 without loss. Sam B was in particularly energetic form despite a cub scout sleepover the night before. The 2nd pair of Jamie Wear/Matthew Samson played some powerful shots taking the score to 46 but with Jamie W losing his wicket to an LBW call. The 3rd pair of Callum Arthurs/Sam Paterson got bogged down and whilst trying hard to force the score along left some very anxious spectators. The 4th pair of Tom Osborn/Alex Bainbridge had only the task of adding a handful of runs but had obviously watched too much T20 (but not England or Australia). Despite a couple of dropped catches the team edged to a winning total.

A deserved win but work to do on batting and wicket keeping before we face stiffer competition.

Bowling figures: Sam Morton 1-6, Sam Bartholomew 2-9, Callum Arthurs 1-13, Tom Osborn 0-0, Sam Paterson 0-9, Alex Bainbridge 0-11, Matthew Samson 0-22.

Batting (gross score/wickets lost):Sam Morton 3/0, Sam Bartholomew 9/0, Jamie Wear 6/1, Matthew Samson 7/0, Callum Arthurs 0/1 , Sam Paterson 7/0, Tom Osborn 3/0, Alex Bainbridge 7/1

Old Buckenham 269 for 4 (net score 249); Mulbarton 271 for 3 (net score 256); Mulbarton won by 7 runs

U11 Alliance League v Thetford (H) Tuesday May 17th

Cricket really is one of those games that signifies summer is here. Parents huddled in many layers of clothing and offspring bubbling with excitement is the very essence of village cricket. Thanks must go to Jane Morton for the coffee urn and to the parents who have donated mugs – it kept many from the verge of hypothermia.

Thetford brought a weakened side and had no expectation of victory in this match in the Alliance League. What they did not quite bank on was an U11 Mulbarton “team” who all contributed to a dominance from start to finish. It is too easy to lose concentration in these circumstances but this team applied itself to the task in hand.

The highlight of the batting was the two 6s hit by Matthew Samson in successive balls not to mention the two 4s in the same over. The first pair of Jacob Marshall and Alex Bainbridge should be credited for setting the trend with a very solid 25 without the loss of any wickets. They showed a desire to take quick runs and worked well as a pair. Tom Osborne and Callum Arthurs were the last pair and whilst showing a desire to maximise the score could learn much from watching the first pair’s calling and teamwork.

The Mulbarton bowling was accurate and the field attentive which completely stifled the opposition such that the opening pair put on 2 runs. Sam Bartholomew had a good spell taking one wicket for the loss of only 6 runs including a maiden over, Jacob Marshall bowled a maiden in his first over for the club and Alex Bainbridge took 2 wickets in his first over then bowled a maiden in his second! The real demon in the pack was Sam Morton who in his first over bowled a 3 wicket maiden, in his second over took a 4th wicket for the loss of a run and finished off with a wicket maiden in his final over.

The coaches were very proud of the team’s performance this early in the season.

Mulbarton batting: Jacob Marshall 6, Alex Bainbridge 7, Jamie Wear 5, Matthew Samson 22, Sam Morton 6, Sam Bartholomew 8, Tom Osborne -3, Callum Arthurs 6

Mulbarton bowling: Matthew Samson 0-10, Sam Bartholomew 1-6, Jacob Marshall 0-3, Sam Morton 5-1, Callum Arthurs 0-10, Tom Osborne 0-5, Alex Bainbridge 2-2

Mulbarton 316 for 3 wickets (net 301); Thetford 237 for 8 wickets (net 197); Mulbarton won by 104 runs.

U13 SNCLeague v Rocklands Raiders

All forecasts of rain were wrong and so the team welcomed Rockland Raiders U13 to an Orchard Park looking rather good thanks to the hard work of Bob and Steve on the pitch. The only thing that marred the vista was the sight of freshly marked football pitch – the FA Cup Final once marked the end of the football season!

The opposition won the toss and elected to put Mulbarton into bat. Due to the opposition turning up with lack of numbers Mulbarton helped out in the field. The batting opened with the lively pair of Alex Pocklington and Josh Bartholomew who set about the task in hand with gusto. Josh Bartholomew made 19 before being caught & bowled with Alex adding a useful 8. Jonny Whitlock batted number 3 and steadied the inning with a stylish 9 not out. Matthew Samson looked all set for an energetic innings but was bowled on 4 before he found his rhythm. Sam Morton came in and hit 23 runs that included four boundaries before being bowled on the penultimate ball of the innings. Theo Lynds had the unenviable task of making the most of the last ball. Loose bowling by the opposition gave Mulbarton a total of 125 runs as extras almost equalled runs scored.

Bowling was opened by the pair of Josh Bartholomew and Matthew Samson. Both whipped the balls in but with varying accuracy and found loose balls well punished. Matthew Samson saw this and bowled a controlled maiden in his second over. Sam Morton and Theo Lynds came on as change bowlers with different styles that took the batsmen by surprise. Sam Morton took two wickets with balls that were well pitched up and on target. Dane Williams took over and with the final ball of his over took a wicket of which he should be very proud.

All in all a creditable start to the season for the U13s.

Pocklington 8, Josh Bartholomew 19, Whitlock 9 NO, Samson 4, Morton 23, Lynds 0, 62 extras
Josh Bartholomew 0-26, Samson 0-6, Morton 2-8, Lynds 0-13, Pocklington 1-1, Williams 1-4

Mulbarton 125 for 5, Rockland Raiders 58 all out, Mulbarton won by 67 runs

Evening thriller goes down to the wire

A depleted U15 side, admirably led at the last moment by James Whitlock, started their league campaign against fancied contenders Belton. With Mulbarton winning the toss and opting to bowl, the visitor’s two openers looked out of sorts against good opening spells from Bradley and Holden with most of their total accumulating from extras. The home side’s fielding was a little erratic at first but tightened up as the bitter north easterly wind and plummeting temperatures encouraged any opportunity to run around; avoiding the onset of hypothermia. Belton accelerated after this before James Whitlock removed the dangerous looking Savoury (15) as part of an outstanding spell and J.Bartholomew took care of Tirimana (23). From then on good fielding and bowling pegged the visitors back with only 29 runs coming from the last 7 overs.

With 96 the target, like Belton, the home side struggled to get the board moving. By the tenth over, two wickets down, 60 was still needed and the match was inexorably drifting away. James Whitlock and J.Bartholomew however had other ideas. With different styles; one stylish and technically classic strokeplay, the other brutal and aggressive punch hitting, they complemented each other perfectly, mounting a sustained attack on the total with 47 runs coming from the next 4 overs. And so it was 14 off two and then 6 off 1. With a single coming from all but one ball, one was needed off the final delivery to tie, two to win. A quick bye, followed by a panicked shy at the stumps and one overthrow gave Mulbarton the narrowest of wins.

This was an outstanding and cohesive performance by this young team on their first outing. Supporting and encouraging each other throughout the match, they never gave up and their perseverance was rewarded in the end by a memorable victory.

Match facts: Belton 96 for 4. Mulbarton 97 for 2. Mulbarton won by 5 wickets.
James Whitlock 3 for 17.
J.Bartholomew 32no, James Whitlock 29no.

Thanks to N.Mackenzie and L.Batch for scoring this fixture.

JH

Catches win matches!

The U11 team started their summer off with an away fixture against Tas Valley CC. It started as a lovely evening but once the sun went down behind the trees parental and sibling support gradually froze. This did not deter our team who started where they left off last season – playing as a team.

Matthew Samson won the toss and elected to field which was a wise choice. The first Tas Valley pair made 14 runs but lost 2 wickets – two really good catches by Alex Bainbridge and Sam Morton. We had a good feeling at this point as they all were fielding well and encouraging each other. The second pair took the score to 223 but lost a couple of wickets – Tom Osborn took a good catch off his own bowling and Sam Morton bowled one. The third pair took the score to 248 but lost a wicket to a run out off Tom Williams’ bowling. The final pair had a good attempt and moved the score to 270 but Sam Morton bowled one of them taking the total of wickets lost to 6.

This total was easily attainable but required concentration and once sustained by jelly babies Mulbarton set about the task. Sam Bartholomew and Tom Osborn batted well and left a score of 211 for the loss of one wicket. The second pair were Sam Morton and Alex Bainbridge – Alex was a revelation hitting two boundaries in his total of 13 runs. The third pair were Matthew Samson and Tom Williams - Tom batted with real vigour amassing personal score of 10 runs and taking the total to 258 for the loss of 2 wickets. The final pair of Callum Arthurs and Jamie Wear played an astute game whereby they knew Tas Valley needed wickets to win so denied them of any opportunity to do so.

Team: Matthew Samson (capt), Sam Morton (vice capt), Sam Bartholomew, Alex Bainbridge, Tom Osborn, Tom Williams, Callum Arthurs, Jamie Wear (WK)

Alex Bainbridge 13, Tom Williams 10, Sam Morton 2 wickets for 5 runs, Alex Bainbridge 1 wicket for 3 runs, Sam Bartholomew 1 wicket for 1 run, Tom Osborn took a wicket maiden in his first over

Result: Tas Valley 270 for the loss of 6 wickets (net 240); Mulbarton 269 for the loss of 3 wickets (net 254);

Mulbarton won by 14 runs

Busiest Season ever at Mulbarton

2010 will see the largest and most ambitious programme ever run by The Club. There will be league cricket at U11, U13, U15 and U17 level; a brand new U13 girls softball league and opportunities for older girls to play in the hardball fixtures. Combined with our kwik cricket tournament and five day Cricket Carnival at the end of August, The Club offers one of the most comprehensive programmes of cricket activities in the county

More Coaches this summer

In 2010 The Club will have the services of eight ECB qualified coaches. Our new girls section will boast two coaches and an assistant dedicated to raising standards and participation next summer.

Congratulations to John Bainbridge who has achieved ECB Level 1 accreditation and will be assisting with the U11 squad this season.

In addition, five of our members; Chris George, Bradley Button, Ben Wilford, Jordan Culling and Stephanie Bond have completed the young leaders award. Well done to them all.

Extra Cricket for U11s

With the large numbers of U11 cricketers at The Club, we shall be providing additional league cricket this summer to provide match experience for more members.

As well as the elite Junior Alliance competition, we shall be entering a team in The South Norfolk Community League.
The U11’s young side put in some fantastic performances last year and have the capability of proceeding to the last eight in the county.

2010 Season