Tom’s five-wicket haul as D40s win opener
Cricket Shropshire’s D40 squad claimed a nail-biting 18-run victory over Yorkshire in their ECB ‘Pursuit’ Programme opener at Norton-in-Hales CC.
Skipper Shaun Rigby lost the toss and Shropshire were invited to bat first.
The batters coped with the early-season conditions superbly with Shaun contributing 34, Kevin Baker 27 before being bowled by a shooter.
Then a stand of 96 between Steve Emson (61) and opener Adam Marshall (62 not out) in his first innings back with the county took Shropshire to a creditable 201-3 after their allocated 40 overs.
In reply, Yorkshire batted belligerently at the start, and a stand of 103 between the consistent Matt Bateman (75) and wicketkeeper Curtis Sugden (50) for the third wicket took them within easy reach of their target.
However, Matt then had to retire (due to ECB competition rules) at 75, and when Curtis was dismissed shortly after reaching his half century, Shropshire’s bowling, superbly led by Tom Wallace (5-17), worked its way through Yorkshire’s rather brittle late batting order.
Although Matt returned at the fall of the ninth wicket, he was unable to prevent his side’s innings being wrapped up for 183 in 36.4 overs, having lost eight wickets for just 20 runs.
Other wicket takers were Cally Rigby (1-16), Oli Harrison (1-45) and Steve (1-38).
Coach Graham Furber said: “Unfortunately for our squad, unavailability had again reared its ugly head before the game, and with a late cry-off this morning, our team had to include three S9 squad members.
“We’re still on the lookout for cricketers with a disability to join either of our squads – please get in touch with Cricket Shropshire if you or anyone you know is interested.
“Our thanks to our umpires Wyn Williams and Paul Evans for their officiating, we do appreciate your efforts on our behalf.”
The next D40 game is against Warwickshire (away) on Sunday, May 19.