Seconds keep Promotion hopes alive with victory over OECC

After last weeks crushing defeat to OFCC, it was vital Ricky 2nd pick up 30 points against Old Elizabethans, who were in good form themselves and had beaten league leaders Botany Bay this season. However, it was quite frustrating for Stefan to have to start the game with 8 players as 3 players arrived late. It's an 11.30 meet time - not 12.15pm !! As a result the first 15 overs took 90 minutes to complete. Yash and Raunak bowled superbly to their 7 man field, Yash going for just 11 runs in his 5 overs.

Raunak picked up a couple of wickets and when John came on he was also able to tie them down further, also removing the dangerous skipper for just 24. Price toiled away at one end, keeping the score ticking over, but the slow start meant it was an uphill task and it was only when Ahmed came in and played agressively that the score accelerated. 242 was the final total with Saffie picking up 3 of the tail-enders to keep the total in check.

This would be Ricky's highest run chase this year and would therefore require patience and application. However, this message didnt get through to Stefan and Raunak who took such a liking to the opening bowlers that 40 was scored off 30 balls before Stefan was out bowled for 19. Once again the skipper got a start but didnt capitalise. Sadly Raunak followed an over later for 18 when he got a scuttler. But really that was the end of the OECC success for a while as Shammi and Bobby put on 76 for the 3rd wicket in quick time.

When Shammi departed for 34 to a miscued pull, Yusuf came to the crease with Bobby telling the opposition that this was the best batter we had. Yusuf was on a hiding to nothing and the opening bowler said he would buy him a bat if he got a 50! Seemed a fair bet at the time.

But Yusuf played what this spectator can only describe as his best, most mature innings of his Ricky career to date. Cutting and pulling and even persuading Bobby to run the odd "2". But Bobby was also enjoying it and it was a pity he was run out attempting a 2nd run for 64. By now only 25 was needed and Waheed helped Yusuf steer the ship home with Yusuf getting his 3rd Ricky half-century with an unbeaten 54.

When this team fires, there isn't another team who can touch them. Next week its Luton, who are already relegated, and by then Ricky will know what is possible.