Second team win 3rd game in a row to edge clear of relegation worries

“Must Win Game” is a much over-used term, but this end of the season, for this group of 2nd team players, it has been very much the case. Having to win 3 of the last 4 games has been stressful, but this season we have been able to put the necessary run together.

On Saturday, fellow relegation strugglers Hatfield welcomes the resurgent 2nds to Ascots Lane and Yash was quickly into his stride picking up an LBW in his first over. Tahir also induced an edge by fellow opener Mark Collins, and Hatfield were on the back foot, Whitehead and Jennings then set about repairing the damage, both club veterans with thousands of runs for the club. With the score over 50, Bobby struck, taking Kevan for 20 and Harvey then grabbed a quick treble to go with another wicket for Bobby and Hatfield were 90/7 and needing a miracle.

Somehow they scraped to 138 with Shammi picking up the last 3 wickets. It wasn’t a vintage Hatfield batting performance but Ricky had conceded 44 extras, including 37 wides in 38 overs, which enabled them to at least achieve a respectable score. But Ricky were the happier team at the break.

What happened next will go down in folklore as Stefan and Yusuf effectively put the game beyond reach. A 50 opening partnership with experienced Stefan playing second fiddle to young Yusuf who displayed stubborn defence with an array of cuts and pulls. Stefan left the stage, bowled, and Guarav followed quickly for a duck. Shammi stayed with Yusuf to take the score to 70 and when he left the job was half done and “old-Ricky” could have stumbled. But Yusuf showed no fear and strode one, whilst Bobby grew in confidence as the runs racked up. So much so that it was a surprise when Bobby was out and only 4 runs were needed to win. It looked like the pair would see the team home, a task that was left to Waheed to hit the winning boundary.

Yusuf easily won man of the match for his stunning 71 not out. A key role played, especially as Ricky had to do it all without the help of so many extras. Even if results don’t go Rickmasnworth’s way next week, 3 points, possibly as few as 2 points, will be enough to secure another season in Division 6. Something that seemed almost impossible 5 weeks ago. Well done to Usman and all the team - now go get those 3 points !