Ashtead win close game in the heat

Ashtead 2nds travelled to Beddington Park for another stifling game in the sun. Having won the toss, Steve Tyson chose to bat rather than fry in the field. Initially all did not seem to be going at all according to plan with 4 wickets falling for only 33 runs in the first 20 overs. Then Colin Pitt came to the crease and together with captain Tyson helped rescue the innings, putting on a partnership of 55 before Tyson was caught for 28. Progress continued as first Paul Cohen and then James Culff joined Colin before the latter was finally run out for 80. The Stags score progressed to 189-9 before declaring in the 52nd over. 3 wickets each for D Lester and C Smith.

Tea was had and Ashtead took the field. despite one early wicket, it took until the 20th over before the next fell. The Ashtead bowlers persevered and a good all round team effort finally secured the win as Beddington were bowled out for 165 in 46.3 overs. 3 wickets each for James Culff and Sam Homes and 2 for Paul Cohen, despite the latter being hit on the hand and in the face whilst trying to take a caught and bowled at close range. Altogether too much excitement for one game with injury and substitution for Ashtead and a runner for Beddington, but all worked out for the Stags in the end.