Sunday Friendly
Old Ashfordians 149 all out
Stoke D’Abernon 139 all out
Old Ashfordians won by 10 runs

After Thames Ditton’s inability to raise a side to play against Stoke’s Sunday XI, a replacement fixture against Old Ashfordians was arranged and the sides played out a great contest, the visitors claiming a ten run victory in good spirited encounter.

Having lost the toss and being asked to field first; Stoke were in a position of total dominance having sent the first seven batsmen back to the pavilion with just 57 runs on the board. Donovan Hall started the ball rolling with a caught & bowled; Rowland Prytherch struck twice; then Mike Carty ripped out the middle order with a three wicket burst. He also threw the stumps down to remove the visiting captain for a duck.

Lower order resistance added substance to the total with two well constructed partnerships. Andy Page broke the first one with a caught & bowled before Carty returned to claim the last wickets to register a maiden five-for, (5-33)

In reply, Stoke fell agonisingly short despite fine contributions from Hall and Will Thomson; and were left to rue replicating the League side’s problem of failing to dismiss the tail cheaply.

Speaking afterwards, Stoke Captain Chris Finch spoke of his disappointment at the failed run chase and the disciplinary action he had to administer:

“…With an on paper “Rolls Royce” of a batting line up including several ex-Captains and league players past & present, confidence was high for a comfortable Stoke victory. How wrong we were! Old Ashfordians produced a magnificent display of controlled bowling throughout, reducing us to a miserable 139 all out with just 3 overs to go. Notable resistance was recorded from Donovon and Will Thomson with cultured runs, Will producing a fine exhibition of power batting. Stunned and suitably humbled, selected senior Stoke members were taken out back and shot leaving the rest of the competent players to enjoy a beer or two afterwards! Despite the loss the occasion was hugely enjoyed by all and we look forward to welcoming back Old Ashfordians next year where no doubt a more youthful and undoubtedly more talented Stoke side awaits!”

Next week, Stoke’s Sunday side host Ashtead…assuming there are enough survivors following the Captain’s actions.

Scorecard Link : http://sdacc.play-cricket.com/scoreboard/scorecard.asp?id=11465805