Long Match

MCC batting first on a flat track on a warm and sunny day put on 114 in 20 overs before losing their first wicket (Hebron 54) and reached lunch on 198-2 after 34 overs having lost De Silva (84). After a pleasant lunch-hour, MCC, continued as before, with T Ulyott (107) dominating. When he departed, on 284-3 from 47 overs, Fernandes (42*) and Wagstaff (43 from 14 balls) gilded the lily, as it were, with another 58 runs from the last 4 overs before the declaration on 342-4 from 51 overs. All the Gents bowlers toiled valiantly for little reward.

The Gents reply did not begin well, 10-2, with both openers gone. Johnny Basett-Graham and Ryan Vickery (28) combined to put on 105 for the third wicket, but the asking rate was now up to 9 an over. 3 quick wickets fell in a mini collapse, and skipper Andrew Kennedy joined Bassett-Graham with the total 155-6, with the latter by now on 99*, with the required rate nearing 12 an over. The pair, added 109 in 10 overs before an Bassett-Graham succumbed to a catch in the deep for a magnificent 182 from 112 balls (28×4 5×6). At 264-7 with 79 still required from 6 overs, Kennedy (43*) and Columbus Everett (5*) negotiated the remaining overs to hold on for an honourable draw, finshing on 288-7. Thanks to Colchester CC for hosting the game.