Harrow Metros overpower Ricky Friendly XI

A very strong Harrow Metro XI were delighted to turn up and play on Rickmansworth's main square for a Sunday friendly. Perhaps not used to such luxury they warmed up on the square itself until asked to stop. They looked a useful side, whilst Rickmansworth were fielding a very friendly XI comprising some lads and Dads and a few veteran players.

Unfortunately Metro didnt need much of a warm-up as both opening bowlers were as quick as any 1st XI attack and had Roshan and Adeel playing and missing for the first 6 overs. bounce and lateral movement combined to do for Roshan and Adeel followoed soon after for 9. Saturday skipper Kasser got some good time in the middle before getting out whilst Owen came and went within a couple of balls for a duck , lobbing the ball up to mid on. All the fielders could catch whilst the one to dismiss Adeel earlier at first slip was a stunner.

When Waqas was out in single figures and Harvey also fell in the same way as his brother, Ricky were deep in the mire at 56/6. But fortunately that was the end of the troubles for a while. Paul and Raj took the score up to 88 and then Raj's son, Nayeem, on debut hung around and scored some lovely runs, for a 13 year old, keeping Paul company. This enabled Paul to reach a half-century which gave Ricky what seemed an unlikely total at one point of 132 in 35 overs. You just have to bat the full number of overs and the runs will come.

Ricky's bowling display was not so lucky and a couple of dropped catches would, in reality, have made no difference as only Adeel picked up a wicket and another batsman retired out for 50. The power on display was awesome as the 6ft 4in West Indian number 4 launched two huge maximum's over covers to win the game with plenty of time to spare.

The game was enjoyed by a reasonable crowd of Ricky players and supporters and it's hoped that in futire weeks even more people will come and watch a bit of friendly Cricket at Park Road. Indeed players are warmly invited to play this coming Sunday when hopefully as easier fixture will be available for those wanting to get some form with bat and ball.