What a difference a day makes

Shropshire U 13s Vs Groot Drakenstein Invitational XI - Match III 25:25

What a difference a day makes. Same stunning ground, same sweltering conditions but today the boys put in a fine batting display. All anxieties master Bland might have had overnight with regard to his and his fellow openers’ ‘unencumbered chevrons’ were firmly put to rest as he and Olly Parton fair raced along, compiling a commendable opening stand of 96. Jonny was the first to fall, for 60. The more measured Olly was bowled too in the following over (for 29). Jovan Uppal, Freddie Timmis and Sam Davis each took up the reins scoring 37, 22 and 23 respectively, again at something of a canter. 201 for 5 off 25 overs – a handsome total, well crafted. GD Invitational’s response was spirited. After a couple of quick wickets Nos 1 and 4 dug in. Their stand of 120 was eventually broken when Stanley Parsley skied a Wilf Peers ball & safe hands Jenkins took the catch at mid-wicket. Jenko went on to snaffle two wickets of his own as the home side failed to build momentum sufficient to threaten their target of 201. GD Invitational finished their 25 overs with 180 for 4, the excellent Julio Meyer walking off the field not out for 81.

In the post-match game of touch rugby the GD boys ran circles round their Shropshire counterparts. Of course it did not take long for ‘touch’ to transition to full contact. The final treat at this the most magnificent of clubs, was an introduction to braai made boerwors rolls. Happy days.