Ampton and Culford Match Report
Husain Husaini


In olden days great cricket XIs used to sometimes take on XXIIs as a test of their might...

So with a nod to our heritage, a Weekenders VIII took on a X of Ampton. A small pause while we watched England beat Denmark. (Except for Duggo who was listening to the Archers) and on to the ground

If a positive mental attitude is all, then Ampton were never in the running. We batted first and set a mammoth 272 for 2. The high point was a chanceless not out hundred from Hogben. Some breathtaking pulls live on in the memory. Support came from Husaini and Lyons. Franks came in for a declaration thrash
and hit an explosive not out 43 interrupted only by lost balls.

Tea featured a very fine slice of cake and then on to the reply.

Previous years on this ground have seen Ampton bat out some fairly tedious draws, so attack was of the essence. Immediately Webster struck. His first of six snorting wickets. Fast and swinging, his bowling proved too much for the Ampton batting. Skipper Dinverno showed imagination and faith in his
bowler by placing a surely historic 6-0 off side field. Webster repaid his captain's faith with a massive leg side wide.

Cheerleading was led by Hoggers ("Don't worry about the kid... he's got a helmet!")

Webster may have tired but the pressure was relentless as Dinverno, Douglas and Schwaab played Croft, Marshall and Garner to Webster's Holding and forced the win. Fine catching behind the wicket was key support. Hogben's pluck out of thin air the best of the lot. Keeper Franks was a dominant figure. Criticism over the misstumping off Webster was probably a bit harsh.


A remarkable day followed by Dinverno making it home without a pee stop.

Final result something like Weekenders 244 for 2, Ampton 72 all out

But I've just seen Korea beat Italy, and Henman made favourite to win Wimbledon, so clearly this has all been a dream and I'll wake up soon.


Takers/Confirmers for Kirtling still needed.

Husain















This e-mail (and any attachments) is confidential and may contain personal
views which are not the views of the BBC unless specifically stated.
If you have received it in error, please delete it from your system, do not use,
copy or disclose the information in any way nor act in reliance on it and notify
the sender immediately. Please note that the BBC monitors e-mails sent
or received. Further communication will signify your consent to this.