Big win for Niffy

The First Team hosted Leicester banks in a crucial game which would see the Niffy go above Banks with a win. Thorpey chose the musical styling’s of Elmer Bernstein to inspire the team as Ben Sharpe and Will Buckley made their way out to the middle as Countesthorpe bat first. After a solid start without a single wicket falling before drinks, Countesthorpes top order began to fall as Will was caught behind for 9, shortly followed by Simon Garrard. James’ misfortune with the bat continued getting a golden duck on the 7th ball of the over, never helps missing a half volley on off stump. With Ben Bowled for 26 this left the Niffy 57-4. Craig and Dave started a rebuild before Craig hit a full toss straight back at the bowler who dropped it onto the stumps to run out Dave for 23. Dave took this dismissal gracefully; it was a mere coincidence that everyone decided to evacuate the changing room before he entered. Dykey chipped in with 24, and Thorpey ran out Dan lever for 19, to avoid his stench as Levers days in a row without washing his kit entered 4 figures. At Tea Countesthorpe were 180 with Extras the top scorer on 38.

Due to a back injury sustained during batting it was thought Thorpey may not be able to bowl, however all it did was reduce his ‘pace’, with the ball appearing to travel backwards at times. This however played to his advantage as he took the first 6 wickets for only 18 runs off his 12 overs. Luke Dyke was particularly impressed as he spent the next 5 minuets throwing his cap on the floor and kicking it. James Hunt bowled his straight spin getting 2 wickets, deceiving everyone including the batsman with one that actually ‘rahgged’. With 8 wickets down Craig decided it might be time for him to bowl picking up the final two wickets, adding too his tally of 13 tail enders this season. Leicester Banks finished 97 all out. Slow bowling remained successful for another game, which begs the question, why does Luke try and bowl so fast?

As the Successful Niffy boys headed back to the pavilion the new Countesthorpe song (to the tune of Three Lions) rang out “One Fox on the Shirt, Div 3 Runners up still gleaming, 4 years of hurt, Never stopped me dreaming” for full lyrics contact James Hunt (07432102752)

The win sees us out of the relegation zone; perhaps we should do a cricket warm-up more often.