In the 2nd XI's first game we had the rolling hills of Buckinghamshire, this time we were treated to the dreaming spires of Oxford against familiar rivals Christ Church Cathedral school. Set in the middle of Oxford city centre with the colleges as a backdrop, the boys could only be inspired to do well in front of roving tourists, supportive parents, and superb weather.
The format of the game was pairs hardball. The batsmen pair up and bat for 3 overs each, every time they are out 5 runs are deducted from the team total. The total starts at 200 runs and whatever is calculated after deductions is added and that is the target. For example, if a team scores 50 runs in their innings but have lost 3 wickets their overall total will be 35 as 15 runs have been deducted! One thinks there should be another tea towel explaining this format too!
Bruern bowled first. Theo R opened with control and accuracy taking 4 wickets in his 2 over spell! Theo R juggled his bowlers well and though we bowled more wides than we would have liked, everybody on the team was able to bowl and support each other with wickets falling at regular intervals. Rudy C continued his excellent form taking two wickets in his spell and also getting a stunning run out with a one-handed pick up and direct hit. Ralph W and Max M showed great promise as a spin duo and were unlucky not to pick up wickets with their flight and guile. In the end Christ Church scored 81 runs in total but lost 10 wickets, setting a target of 231 for Bruern to chase.
The key for the Bruern batsmen was not to lose wickets and be positive. The tone was set by Theo R and Rudy C as they opened the innings positively. Rudy C was particularly pugnacious, scoring a quick-fire 18. Teddy CF then followed bludgeoning 3 superb 4's as he and his partner cruised passed the 31 runs needed. A lovely batting cameo from Xavier L made sure that Bruern scored enough runs that they were able to afford losing 3 wickets and still be well over the target required. In the end Bruern scored 79 runs, losing 3 wickets ending up with a winning total of 264.
Well done boys! Roll on next week!
Mr Vadivale
