Last ball thriller as Rothley scrape home

A Phil Hackett single of the last ball to win the game doesn't begin to tell the story of this excellent game. Tidy opening bowling by Hesketh and Phil Hackett kept Countesthorpe in check as Jonny and Charlie went early. Gradually Gaz and Wade rebuilt the innings but on a wicket offering lateral movement scoring was tough.

Overseas spinner Adam Taylor was accurate without threatening as C'thorpe reached 100 in the 30th over. With wickets in hand 200 looked to be the target from the last 15. Gaz went to a well deserved 50 with a 6 on to the pavilion roof. Wade was getting into his stride as the partnership passed 100 Wade moved to 50 having it a couple of maximums off the returning Hesketh. Richardson then suffered in the final onslaught, but runs didn't come easily.

Wade was bowled for an excellent 71 and Gaz was run out off the last ball for a seasons best 79 as C'thorpe finished on 189-4

Wade was quickly amongst the wickets when Sy took a stunner at square leg and Badger caught Beall behind. Taylor then joined Grindall and hit some lusty blows to leg Grindall was well held by Jack at mid off and then Thorpy secured his 2nd wicket the important scalp of Sam Ward

Adam Hackett and Taylor added 47 before Wade took a blinder at deep mid wicket to remove his co-countryman for 59. Luke entered the attack and bowled Matthews all ends up as Phil joined his brother. 30 precious runs were added before Adam chipped to Ash at mid wicket. 35 were needed with 3 wickets left and 7 overs remained. Hesketh was bowled by Steve with 25 required

Luke finished a great spell as the ninth wicket pair took singles and with 13 needed from the final over a draw looked favourite. Hackett had other ideas, lofting a 6 first ball 2 singles and then another Hackett 4 left the scores tied. Ash then almost brought off a miracle catch but it spilled out as he hit the ground from a full length dive, no run. Nerves were jangling particularly the Rothley number 11 who had yet to contribute to the game, but he wasn't needed as Hackett guided the final ball to fine leg for the winning run, finishing 38 not out.

A game of what if's but a game that showed what the game of cricket is all about.