2008 Fourth XI
New Farnley v Pudsey Congs
At Farnley Park
Saturday August 30th, 2008
Match report by rookie reporter Nathan Dalton
Captain Stuart Hardcastle won the toss and elected to have the Congs bowl first. Pudsey got of to a cracking start with Abid taking a beautiful catch in close just three deliveries into the game. Stuart with his first wicket maiden of the game. Kasim at the other end conceded 1 run in his first over, that being a no ball. Stu went on to take his second wicket maiden in his second over in the contest with the match looking promising at this early stage. Stu, in his first spell, bowled ten overs – eight of them were maidens. After fourteen overs, New Farnley were a mere 10 for 3, then after twenty one overs they were just 24 for 4. A young New Farnley team made up of 9 thirteen year olds and two seniors, fought back up well progressing the score onto a respectable 186-7 with one of the thirteen year olds scoring a half Century. Well done and well deserved.
Stuart Hardcastle – 18 OV-9m-4w-42r, Steven Robinson – 8 OV-1m-2w-30r, Wasim Bashir – 3 OV-0m-1w-23r
After tea, the Pudsey Congs went out to bat with Abid and Allister opening the proceedings. Abid made sure the first ball went a great distance by middling the ball for 4. Just as Abid got into the swing of things, he was out to one of the best catches this young reporter has seen all season courtesy of the New Farnley skipper. In at number three was our skipper Stu, who with an injured knee was caught soon after entering having a good attempt at saving the game. Number four was a very confident Tom Brook who scored a very patient 8. Then came Nemo who unfortunately didn’t succeed at scoring any runs. Kasim our top scoring batsman was due in and scored in style resulting ins a very well deserved 24. In the end, the Congs lost by less than a hundred runs, a good all around team effort.
Kasim Mohammed: 24 runs, Wasim Bashir :12 no
Pudsey Congs v Driglington
At Fulneck
Saturday August 23rd, 2008
Match report by Captain Stu Hardcastle
Congs won the toss and elected to bat first against the inform visitors from Driglington. A quality Drig bowling attack was not performing to the high standard set when the two sides first met earlier in the season, giving the openers Abid and Ali time to settle. Making a positive start the senior Cong’s were pushing singles and putting pressure on the fielders. Unfortunately Abid gave a simple catch to cover for 13. Hardcastle kept up the good work but only returned with 12, making way for James Galvin. Riding his luck but making the most of the several life lines and impressive 24 including a huge 6 over the bowlers head. When Ali departed for 42 the lower order made good runs posting a respectable 153/8 including a decent 15 from last minute debutant Tahir Gill normally found catering at the Brit and another good knock of 13 from Joe Goodchild.
A.Goodchild 42, J.Galvin 24
Congs, who were without All Star bowler Dan Appleyard who was away on International duty, needed quick wickets in the second innings to pile pressure on the visitors. Opener T. Illingworth edged Hardcastle through the slips in the first over, then repeated his lucky escape edging Galvin the very next over. An eventful opening to the second innings saw the skipper make the breakthrough before pulling up injured and in some discomfort. Galvin picked up the baton and led the charge well, taking the wicket of Nelson but with little support for Galvin, the visitors paced their way to victory. The young Steven Robinson struck late into the match returning another set of more than respectable figures but sadly it was too little too late. Drig 154/3.
S.Hardcastle 5-0-19-1, J.Galvin 10-1-41-1, S.Robinson 4-0-25-1
Wibsey Park Chapel v Pudsey Congs
At Haycliffe Lane
Saturday August 16th, 2008
Match report by Dan Appleyard
Another hard fought match that goes right down to the wire. Losing the toss and fielding first, Kasim and James opened the bowling on a damp and lifeless pitch. However, both had fantastic spells, keeping the run rate at a steady pace. It took the first bowling change to break the opening partnership, when Stuart struck with a fine edge to the man with the gloves, Tyler . Apple, at the other end, found a little bit of seam movement which created a couple of chances, keeping the batsmen at bay. It was Stuart who struck again with another edge to Tyler and struck again when he clean bowled the number four. During his fantastic spell, he took four wickets when James took one down the neck at cover. Kasim’s second spell saw him join the party when he bowled the number five, and then trapped the number six LBW. Galvin, bowling from the other end for his second spell chipped away at the batsmen, creating countless problems with variety and patience, as did Apple, as the two shared the closing overs. James won the race to get the first wicket of the two when he bowled the number 8, but Apple kept chipping away and varied the pace and clean bowled the number nine in the penultimate over.
Hardcastle 4/35, K. Mohammad 2/47, J. Galvin 1/32, D. Appleyard 1/36
Chasing 161 for victory, Abid and Alistair started steady. However, Bashir’s stay was cut short when he lofted one to the fielder. Hardcastle looked in fine form as he carried on his great performance with the ball, with the bat. Unfortunately, he was beaten by a good ball, and departed for 20. Tom and Joe supported Alistair with a few singles and boundaries. Galvin, batting with the aid of a runner and a swollen foot, played the ball well, but the injury proved too much to let him bat comfortably and succumbed for 11. The lower order and tail end tried to rally the runs required for the win, and when it became clear that 6 points were out of the question, looked to settle for the draw and 2 points. However, a slowing pitch with ever changing bounce, and a bit of luck for the opponents, saw the Congs fall for 138.
Goodchild 41, S. Hardcastle 20, J. Galvin 11
A few miss-fields and dropped catches again sour the feelings after the match as it could have turned out ever so differently. However, not dwelling on the negatives, the young side fought hard to ensure they went down fighting all the way.
Baildon v Pudsey Congs
At Baildon School
Saturday August 2nd, 2008
Match report by Dan Appleyard
Winning the toss and bowling first, Pudsey set out to hamper Baildon’s efforts right from the off. A good opening spell from Hardcastle had the batsmen in all sorts of trouble, with Appleyard supporting him at the other end, also creating problems for the batsmen when he found the right line and length. Galvin and Cockin worked hard during their spells as the Baildon batsmen started to get on top of the bowlers. Naeem also bowled well and with 100% effort, but the batsmen were the lucky ones on this day, scoring quickly. Legend, as always, produced a fine spell helping to slow the run rate down, and break a strong partnership. Final spells from Hardcastle and Appleyard took advantage of the all out attack mode to make breakthroughs and make Baildon limp to their large total.
Hardcastle 2/56, C. Nelthorpe 1/40, D. Appleyard 1/67
Chasing a large total, but regarded as attainable, openers Abid and Alistair tried to set the pace against an aggressive, and vocal, bowling attack. It wasn’t long before Abid fell, quickly followed by Stuart. Tom and Goodchild kept the board ticking over; however the score was looking more and more out of reach. Cockin and Joe looked to put a bit of fight into the game by being aggressive and going after the bowlers. Unfortunately, their efforts were thwarted, and the tail failed to trouble the scorer ensuring Pudsey suffered a heavy defeat.
Goodchild 28, J. Goodchild 20 not out, D. Cockin 10
Pudsey Congs v Hyde Park
At Fulneck
Sunday July 27th, 2008
Match report by Dan Appleyard
Winning the toss and electing to bat first on a dry, hard wicket, opening pair Galvin and Tom eased themselves in against good, aggressive bowling. On another large out field, the only way to keep the board ticking over was to scupper singles and two’s. Tom and Galvin were going brilliantly until disaster struck and Galvin was dismissed. With some well-timed shots and hard hitting, Stuart pushed the score along with a few boundaries and quick singles. Cockin and Naeer ran well between wickets, however a middle order collapse exposed the tail. Joe Goodchild and Steven showed fighting spirit by not only holding off the fantastic bowling outfit, but brought the game to the bowlers with some aggressive batting. Resistance from the last four, Joe, Steven, Tyler and Apple ensured the Congs went down fighting all the way.
Hardcastle 15, J. Goodchild 11, T. Gill 8 not out
Defending a measly 85 on a batsman’s paradise, the Congs bowlers made the visitors work hard for the 6 points. Kasim struck first ball, accompanied by a fantastic catch at cover by Danny Cockin. He, Steven and Naeem had the batsmen in allsorts of trouble at both ends. However, a fine batting display by Hussain, proved to be too much for our bowling attack and timed the ball beautifully to every part of the ground. Naeem removed him with a good ball clipping the off peg. A brilliant spell from Cockin produced 2 consecutive wickets and a chance of a hatrick. With 10 runs for victory and 5 wickets needed, the secret weapon was brought out. Mr Tom “Left Arm Slow/Wide” Brook produced an entertaining over with Hyde Park requiring just 1 run, which was forced easily the next over.
Cockin 2/5, N. Aheer 2/12, K. Mahammad 1/28
Playing two days in a row, on a hot weekend definitely looked like it had taken its toll on both sides. Played with brilliant sportsmanship and team spirit, both sides never gave up or took it for granted and played the game with the right mentality.
Pudsey Congs v Crompark
At Fulneck
Saturday July 26th, 2008
Match report by Dan Appleyard
A fine display all across the board, and superb sportsmanship from both teams ensured a thrilling game of cricket. To start the encounter both teams lined themselves up down the sides of the strip and marked a minutes silence for the loss of Crompark’s club president, a man who had served the club for more than 50 years.
Losing the toss and put in to field by the opposition, the Congs started well with the opening bowling partnership of Hardcastle and Appleyard reducing the visitors to 35/5 inside 14 overs. Both bowlers looked in good nick and had caused many problems for the batsmen. Tyler took some amazing catches behind the stumps for Stuart’s bowling, and Abid took a great catch in front to hand Apple his second wicket. At the first bowling change Galvin impressed straight away with an opening wicket maiden and at the other end Dalton eased into his rhythm and had the batsmen in allsorts of trouble. Making his first appearance since August last year, Geoff Galvin came on to replace Nathan and struck in his first over. He had a tight spell coming up the hill and without doubt deserved a larger number in the wickets column. Wasim also had a tight spell down the hill towards the end of the innings and put the batsmen under pressure, taking control of the game. At the death the openers bowled 3 more overs. However, as was noticed in the field, the heat took its toll and Abid and James Galvin finished off the innings, with Abid claiming a wicket after the batsman was caught by James.
Hardcastle 3/24, D. Appleyard 2/35, Geoff Galvin 1/8, James Galvin 1/28, A. Bashir 1/9
A great fight back in the first innings meant the Congs were set a target of 140 for victory. With Tom returning to opener, he and Abid took control from the first over, working the ball into the gaps running singles and two’s. Abid’s fast 36 came to an end when he skied one, being caught by S. Jones. Stuart in at 3 played patiently, yet aggressively to work the ball into the gaps and keep the score ticking over. James played well supporting Tom, playing the ball around and both batsmen finally looked settled and in form. When Galvin was caught, Peter Huffingley came in and hit the winning runs to secure the Congs’ bounced back from the away game at the start of the season. Tom Brook ended on 35 not out, having played patiently and with elegant style.
Bashir 36, T. Brook 35*, S. Hardcastle 29, J. Galvin 21
A hard fought win in the sun earned the Congs 6 more points and a huge confidence boost after the past few weeks of close games. Well done to everyone, and a huge thanks for Peter Huffingley and Geoff Galvin for helping out and not only making up the numbers, but giving outstanding performances.
Cookridge v Pudsey Congs
At Cookridge
Saturday July 19th, 2008
Match report by Dan Appleyard
Bowling first on a good wicket, Hardcastle and Dale Spink set about breaking the opening partnership. Hardcastle struck first, striking middle stump to remove the opener. Galvin had a brilliant spell claiming a brilliant wicket. Appleyard found some long awaited form with a spell of tight bowling and causing both batsmen trouble. Colin “legend” Nelthorpe also had a brilliant spell, yet again demonstrating his value to the side with the ability to slow the game down and create chance after chance. Danny Cockin had a shaky start to his spell, however then went on to produce two consecutive wicket maidens. Stuart and Galvin had excellent second spells, adding to their tally of wickets to produce fantastic figures. A stumping and two catches by Tyler behind the stumps gave Galvin, Cockin and Hardcastle wickets and as well as a tight spell of bowling, Legend also took two superb catches, as did Galvin and Spink.
Hardcastle 4/17, J. Galvin 3/53, D. Cockin 2/14
Set a target of 147 for victory Abid and Alistair started well, but Abid fell on 21, Alistair retired hurt and Stuart fell the ball after Goodchild’s retirement, leaving the Congs on 29/2 (plus a retirement). Ash and Tom steadied the ship however and edged us closer. When Ash fell, bowled, Galvin came to assist, but didn’t stay long. Danny Cockin however stayed through the turbulence, as did Tom and together they took the score from 53/4 to 98/4. Both were looking in fine form and playing beautifully when then the rain came. After a stop start and loss of 11 overs, the match was abandoned because of rain.
Cockin 34*, A. Bashir 21, T. Brook 18*
Another great performance by the guys and a certain win for the Congs was on the table. In recent weeks luck seems to be finally turning in our favour, together with some fine performances and players coming back into form, the second half of the season should turn out to be rather interesting for the Congs.
Pudsey Congs v Pudsey St Lawrence
At Fulneck
Saturday July 12th, 2008
Match report by Dan Appleyard
Losing the toss and batting first on a flat wicket, Bashir and Goodchild set the pace with a good opening stand. Abid was caught on 23 and so Alistair was joined by the skipper. Stuart made a hard earned 17 before departing. The middle order made little resistance, but supported Goodchild in his quest to record a fine 112.
Goodchild 112, A. Bashir 23, S. Hardcastle 17
Defending 184, Hardcastle and Mahmood set out about taking early wickets to weaken the visitors. Another fine bowling display from Stuart removed an opener. Galvin and Huffingley impressed hugely with the ball as they put the batsmen under pressure, as did Dale Spink, making his bowling debut for the side. However, missed chances, dropped catches and loose bowling ensure the match went right down to the wire, and it was the Congs who came up short.
Hardcastle 14-3-61-2, T. Huffinley 4-1-12-1, J. Galvin 8-0-29-1, D. Spink 4-0-15-1, A. Goodchild 3-0-19-1
Hyde Park v Pudsey Congs
At Bedquilts
Saturday July 5th, 2008
Match report by Dan Appleyard
Losing the toss, the travelling Congs side were asked to bat first. In a weather interrupted innings they amassed 159 all out with Alistair and Abid scoring a patient 51 and 22 respectively. After a middle order collapse, Naeem helped steady the ship with the rest of the tailenders producing 22 from his time in the middle. With a decent target to aim for and only 38 overs to achieve it because of the rain, Hyde Parkset the pace steady for the opening bowlers of Hardcastle and Steven. Stuart led the way with a wicket maiden during his spell. However, the batsmen took every opportunity given to them, and the more opportunities they got, the more their confidence grew. The top order rattled off the 159 with the loss of only 3 wickets; Naeem and Kasim being the other wicket takers.
Pudsey Congs v Mount
At Fulneck
Saturday June 28th, 2008
Match report by Dan Appleyard
Bowling first, Hardcastle and Robinson opened the bowling with tidy spells keeping the batsmen under control with consistent line and length. However, as the batsmen settled, they started to push the run rate up on a good batting track. A direct hit from Toby ensure the opener returned, run out, without reaching double figures. At the first bowling change Galvin and Aheer came on to slow the pace down and had one of the batsmen in all sorts of trouble, showing serious discomfort playing the spin. It was Nemo who struck with a catch behind the stumps by Abid. A few dropped chances and lack of backing up thwarted James’ chances of any wickets for his fine and hard fought spell. Toby replaced Nemo coming up the hill striking in his second over clean bowled. Unfortunately, likewise with Nemo’s final over, the batsmen took a liking to the pace and hit the ball into the gaps, sometimes riding their luck. Appleyard, despite bowling a decent line and length, proved costly but was rewarded for his perseverance as he got S. Manjra lbw. Stuart’s second spell, too, proved costly as the batsmen hit the ball hard into the gaps. Goodchild marked his bowling return with two wickets in his first over, caught behind by Bashir and caught on the boundary by Steven. Wasim too struck, despite a costly opening over again stamping his place in the side. It was Steven who came out as the leading bowler with his final spell, clearing out the tail with two stumpings and a catch by Goodchild. Mount were all out for 335 from 44 overs.
Robinson 9-0-60-3, A. Goodchild 3-0-22-2, W. Bashir 3-0-23-1, N. Aheer 4-0-31-1, D. Appleyard 5-0-47-1, T. Ward 3-0-34-1
Seeking 336 for victory, 252 with wickets to spare for 2 points or batting out the 46 overs for a single point, the captain rallied the troops: “let’s go out there and bat with pride”. Opening the batting, Bashir and Goodchild settled quickly playing the ball into the spaces and often, into the surrounding bushes. Abid got unlucky and ended up caught behind on 20. Hardcastle joined the cause and he and Alistair, together, built a partnership, bringing up the 50 and 100 for the Congs. Stuart hit a patient and well deserved 67. Succumbing to a well pitched ball, Galvin replaced Stuart, but he too fell, bowled. Tom Brook, coming in down the order at five, hit two boundaries before suffering an unfortunate run out for 8. Naeem and Steven didn’t trouble the scorers too much as they were caught and run out respectively. Seeking the 252, Stuart sent out the attacking batsmen of Wasim and Colin, however, the wickets kept tumbling with Colin and Toby both caught. With 11 balls left Appleyard walked out to the crease. Seeing out the over left Wasim the final 6 balls to defend, however on the second delivery picked up a loose ball and hooked it for a quick single. Solid defending by Dan and a leave for the last ball secured the Congs a point from the match ending on 188/9.
Hardcastle 67, A. Goodchild 65, A. Bashir 20
Mount took advantage of the batsmen friendly track and rode their luck on several occasions. Every bowler bowled a decent line and length, unfortunately the opposition came with their glasses on and hit the ball hard, and often. The rallying cry at tea proved invaluable as each member of the team restored pride into the match.
Whitehall v Pudsey Congs
At Drig
Saturday June 21st, 2008
Match report by Dan Appleyard
Winning the toss Stuart elected to bowl first. However, that is as far as the game progressed. There was much waiting around in the changing rooms for both teams as they held onto hope for a game. And then, when we thought all was lost a thrilling game of changing room cricket broke out. Tom opened the batting, but didn’t stick around too long. Great bowling spells from Galvin, Tyler and Tom saw the departures of just about everyone, multiple times. Wasim again stole the show when he returned from the club house with an aggressive knock; which is slightly terrifying in a small changing room and the ball is coming towards you rather fast. Some left handed skills from Nemo, Galvin and Stuart showed us why they won’t be trying a Pietersen in a match despite Galvin’s insistence he “taught him that shot”; bless him. A special mention for quality fielding performances by Mike Brook, Kim “the scorer” Charman and of course Abid. However, it was only so long before the boys were overcome with disappointment and resigned to the club house for tea. A handshake by the captains spelt the end and ensured there was only one winner this week; the rain.
Pudsey Congs v New Farnley
At Fulneck
Saturday June 14th, 2008
Match report by Dan Appleyard
Winning the toss, Stuart elected to bowl first and so he and Appleyard opened the bowling for the Congs. The first two overs were tight, but the batsmen soon got on top of Dan coming up the hill into the wind. Tyler came on to replace Apple with a varied spell. Stuart had a tight and aggressive spell but let Apple replace him down the hill to see if he could make the most of the conditions. Toby Ward, two overs later, came on to replace Apple and Colin “Legend” Nelthorpe replaced Tyler at the other end. Catches by Tom Brook and Apple gave Colin and Toby, respectively, a wicket each with Colin doing one better and trapping the number 4 LBW. Their spells helped calm the run rate and break an important partnership. Wasim “Mini Bash” Bashir came on at Toby’s end and Kasim Mohammad replaced the Legend. Alistair, making his return for the Congs after injury, took a cool, calm, collected catch at cover for Kasim. However, it was Wasim who took the spotlight of the bowling partnership as he went on to take three wickets. A catch by Danny Cockin at short extra cover, and two great balls that beat the batsmen gave Wasim his best figures of the season. Kasim wrapped up the innings when he bowled their last batsmen. New Farnley closed on 173 all out giving the Congs 3 overs.
Bashir 4-1-12-3, K Mohammad 6-0-17-2, C. Nelthorpe 7-0-26-2, T. Ward 9-0-38-1
With a fairly large score to attain in 48 overs, Abid “Bash” Bashir and Tom Brook started off well. They both got their eye in and looked in good form. Unfortunately Tom succumbed to a short pitched delivery he tried to lob over mid on which held up in the wind. Stuart came in at 3 and worked the ball around well. Abid struck the ball hard along the ground and out of the park, demoralising the bowlers. Stuart was patient and waited for the ball to come on to the bat; both of them timing the ball perfectly. Shots on both the off and leg side saw the team total inch ever closer to the target required.Before long, Abid reached his first half century of the season in magnificent style. However, he wasn’t about to take the foot off the gas and carried on getting on top of the bowlers. Reaching the 60’s mark he started to give chances, which were put down; on three occasions. Just 12 runs shy of the target for victory, Abid reached his first century of the season, and for Pudsey Congs which saw 17 boundaries (ten 4’s and seven 6’s). In the next over Stuart followed suit and recorded his first half century of the campaign, playing a captains innings which included ten 4’s. Congs triumphant effort ended on 177/1 with 18 overs to spare.
Bashir 103 not out, S. Hardcastle 55 not out
Despite dropped catches and the occasional misfield, the Congs came out on top thanks to a long awaited batting partnership that has been lacking since the start of the campaign. A massive well done to the team for their consistent hard work in the field, and congratulations to our centurion and half centurion.
Mount v Pudsey Congs
Cawthorne Cup 1st Round
At Hristlands Park
Sunday June 8th, 2008
Match report by Dan Appleyard
Losing the toss and asked to field first, Mohammed and Appleyard opened the bowling with tidy spells and keeping the batsmen on their toes. At the first change Naeem and Hardcastle were brought on to continue the work of the opening bowlers and break the partnership. It was Naeem who succeeded in his bid and went on to take 6 wickets from his allotted overs with Tyler taking a catch, an LBW and the rest bowled, and at one stage he was on a hatrick ball. Tyler Gill had an impressive spell with which he removed 2 victims LBW and caught at slip by Dan Appleyard. Wasim had a short spell, after being hit in the head with the ball in the field, which had the batsmen on their toes. Galvin also had a tidy spell, taking a wicket in his last over of his spell with a spectacular catch by Danny Cockin. It was Stuart who wrapped up the innings with a catch by Naeem at cover. Mount ended on 140 all out.
Aheer 8-1-29-6, T. Gill 6-0-28-2, S. Hardcastle 5.2-1-7-1, J. Galvin 3-0-13-1
The openers, Abid Bashir and Tom Brook, went out looking to build a partnership to reach the attainable target of 141. Some hard hitting game Abid 16, but Tom was unfortunate to have the only ball of the match to roll on bounce for a Golden. Stuart hit a patient, but hard 25 with a six and 4 fours. Naeem and Danny Cockin had encouraging stints in the middle each making 11 and 15 respectively. However, the fall of Galvin and Cockin spelt the end with Tyler, Kasim, and Dan all failing to trouble the scorers. However a defiant 7 from Colin delayed the inevitable but succumbed to a good ball and was bowled leaving Wasim 2 not out.
Pudsey Congs B ended on 87 all out.
Hardcastle 25, A. Bashir 16, D. Cockin 15
Driglington v Pudsey Congs
At Drig
Saturday June 7th, 2008
Match report by Dan Appleyard
Facing an experienced side which only two years ago was part of the Bradford League, the Congs team showed spirit and persistence to the very end.
Winning the toss Stuart asked Drighlington to bat first. Appleyard, returning from a two week absence, and Hardcastle set about setting the pace of the innings with their opening spells. However, the batsmen had other ideas and from an early stage had a healthy run rate. In his fourth over Dan removed the number two for 15, and three overs later Stuart removed their number three for 6, who scored 109 against the up-roaders last weekend. Galvin replaced Apple and bowled an economic spell under the circumstances, unfortunately for no reward. Tom produced a wonderful effort running out their number four during Hardcastle’s opening spell. Tyler replaced Stuart at the other end with a good spell against the middle order. After the drinks break Nathan and Wasim were brought on for two overs each. However, the batsmen stepped the pace up and hit the ball hard and broke several windows in the process. Danny Cockin produced a promising spell in his four overs with a good pace, and line and length. Tyler and Stuart’s second spells produced 5 wickets between them. Despite the batsmen going after them, a consistent line and length meant that eventually the bowlers would win. They closed on 249/8, declaring in the final over.
Hardcastle 15-0-75-3, T. Gill 10.2-0-59-3, D. Appleyard 5-0-23-1
Facing a colossus run chase the openers, Abid and Tom, started the innings steadily. Both batsmen looked in form, producing well timed shots. Unfortunately neither made it to double figures with Tom out LBW and Abid following caught behind. Stuart played a captains innings and set an example of how to bat, most of the time. Being patient and playing well timed shots, he and Galvin, and later Cockin hit the bowlers around the park, and in Stuart’s case, out of the park. Stuart was dismissed on 32 after being caught. This left Danny, who was looking in good form, batting with the lower order. Tylermade 5 and deserved many more despite nailing one to a fielder. Toby went for a Golden Duck leaving the bowler on a hatrick ball, which Wasim, the next batsmen in, slotted away behind square. Nathan, Apple, and Colin all tried to stay with him, all registering a score. But the Congs innings closed on 92 leaving Danny Cockin with a very well deserved 21 not out.
Hardcastle 32, D. Cockin 21
A heavy defeat, which has given the team much experience in dealing with quality batting and persistent bowling shouldn’t affect their confidence too much. Everyone worked extremely hard, right up to the last ball. Unfortunately, it just wasn’t our day.
Pudsey Congs v Wibsey Park Chapel
At Fulneck
Saturday May 31st, 2008
Match report by Dan Appleyard
Coming into a new game after a heavy defeat last week, the Congs side had a renewed sense of spirit. Each member of the team agreed to wear a black wrist band, to mark respect for a lost loved one a year ago of James Galvin’s.
Asked to bowl first, Imran Ashid and Stuart Hardcastle opened the bowling. Imran, coming down the hill, bowled well to keep the batsmen guessing. However, it was Stuart who stole the show. The last ball of one of his overs, and the next two balls of his next over meant that Stuart Hardcastle earned his first ever career hatrick. The first: a straight delivery that rattled the batsman’s wickets, the second: a caught behind by Danny Cockin, and the third: a superb catch by the sub fielder Wasim Bashir. Under the circumstances he stepped up and delivered. At 9 for 3 wickets, the middle order batsmen became accustomed to the pace bowling. James Galvin and Toby Ward came on to try and tame the batsmen. After 8 overs, Tyler and Kasim were brought on. Tyler produced an outstandingly economical spell and also earned a wicket. M. Stavely of Wibsey Park Chapel hit the 50 mile stone, but fell at 54 when Imran dismissed him in his second spell but the rest of the middle order were resistant. However, four wickets from Galvin in his second spell, with 2 from 2, weakened them and were eventually dismissed for 138.
James Galvin 8-1-31-4, Stuart Hardcastle 7-0-30-3, Tyler Gill 7-1-10-1
Needing 139 for victory, Abid and Tom set about building a solid start. Tom’s stay, however, was cut short when he was trapped LBW for 2. Abid and Imran developed a partnership, but Bashir was dismissed on 12. Stuart came in to assist the debutant. However, his stay didn’t last long as he was caught for 7. James Galvin though stuck around. He and Imran (33), and later the middle and lower order, kept going throughout the innings with Ash Slater supporting him with 13. The tailend unfortunately didn’t trouble the scorers, but had Tyler ’s hook shot gone through the fielder, who had to catch the ball for the sake of his life, there’s no telling how his innings could have shaped out. In the end Congs ended on 123 all out with Galvin 31 not out.
Imran Ashid 33, James Galvin 31*, Ash Slater 13
The team had a strong team spirit this week, all getting behind Galvin, who played his heart out. Special mention goes to Galvin for his outstanding second spell and time in the middle, Wasim’s catch to give Stuart his 3rd wicket and Stuart for his hatrick. Well done boys lets take the momentum through to next week.
Hepworth & Idle v Pudsey Congs
At a windy Bradford Hillside
Saturday May 24th, 2008
Match report by Dan Appleyard
A new day, a new opponent, and a visit to a new ground! Hepworth and Idle were aiming to play Bradford league cricket this season but missed out on a few minor technicalities, so you can imagine the quality of the ground and team we faced on a windy exposed Bradford hillside. The scale of the task became obvious when Kasim Mahammad went for 20 of two overs, all in boundaries, all off the outside edge of the bat at speed, giving the slips and the keeper Danny Cockin no hope of stopping the ball. Taking the pace out the attack saw James Galvin on to replace Kas, with his spin. The quality of the batsmen showed as they punished anything slightly loose and made good use of the lightning quick outfield. Meanwhile at the other end, the other opening bowler, skipper Stu Hardcastle was having a good day. Battling into the wind and been made to work hard with every delivery his determination and effort brought a terrific spell of pace bowling beating the edge and pinning down the batsmen. That work rate was rewarded as he returned figures of 5-20 in his first spell. James, Tyler Gill, and Steven Robinson all continued to bowl well but P.Medley, and B.Heaton settled into a steady rhythm and set about building a partnership. Making the most of a ‘life’ each they piled on 162 runs. A failed attempt from the skipper to lure them into a mistake saw legend Nelthorpe and Toby Ward put to the sword, it was going take something special to end this one. Seeing the proverbial beach ball been bowled at them Medley and Heaton set about the returning openers before Hardcastle found that special yorker removing the middle stump and Medley for 98 followed by Kasim, a brilliant leg side catch from keeper Cockin ended Heatons knock for 68. The home side lost one more wicket to Kasim before declaring on 258-9. A brilliant fielding display from Keegan Moodley and Tyler Gill earned the two young lads a share of the fielding point taking half each.
Hardcastle 14-1-59-6, K Mohammed 5-0-43-2, J Galvin 8-1-43-1
The second innings got to off to a good start with Abid Bashir batting confidently supported by Keegan Moodley. That resistance was short lived when Keegan was adjudged leg before but Danny Cockin played the shot of the day – a glorious cover drive and Ash Slater worked hard but all struggled to get started in the face of some tight fast Hepworth bowling. James Galvin was the man to take the fight back to Hepworth, settled and confident he found the boundaries at ease, but when Hardcastle fell to a tired shot, Kasim and Tyler followed quickly and the bowlers were back on top. Galvin went for the sucker punch picking out square leg before Toby, having a nice knock ran out of partners to support him, ending the Congs innings on 81.
Bashir 28, J. Galvin 24
What was most definately a hard day with the ball, and with the bat, the figures do not reflect the full picture. Had chances been held the outcome of the match could have been a lot different. The lads put in maximum effort for, unfortunately, little reward. They should go away from this game knowing they played their hearts out for the team against a very good side. Well done lads!
Pudsey Congs v Baildon
At Fulneck
Saturday May 17th, 2008
Match report by Dan Appleyard
Another week and another six points slip through our fingers like a teasing catch that just doesn’t quite stay in your hands. Batting first on a flat wicket, the Congs started off steady with Abid making 20 and Tom supporting him with 5. Stuart came in with a speedy 23 after Tom was dismissed to a good ball, which included two 6’s. Keegan came to replace Abid as he was dismissed shortly after Tom. He and Stuart knocked the ball around for singles, but Keegan succumbed to a well pitched delivery. Danny Cockin, James Galvin (making his first appearance of the season), and Kasim all failed to get off the mark on a deteriorating wicket. Tyler pushed singles around with Toby, who also fell for a duck. Dan and Tyler tried to bat out the innings to minimise the overs given to Baildon, however, Tyler was caught at point and Dan got caught behind three overs later leaving Legend not out.
Congs 66 all out – S. Hardcastle 23, A. Bashir 20
Opening the bowling, Kasim and Dan were given the task of removing the top order. It was Kasim who earned a 5-for, with rumours he had a “good luck” charm around the back of the pavilion. Toby replaced Dan coming up the hill and, in his 3 over, spell removed 2 batsmen with a great catch by Stuart, and one by Abid. Tyler made his bowling debut this season with an economic spell, and Stuart went for two of his solitary over. Baildon won by 3 wickets as they reached 69/7
Mohammed 7-0-35-5, T. Ward 3-0-13-2
Despite the low score achieved in the first innings, the Congs side really made a game of it and only just let it slip through their fingers. However, it’s a dropped catch that this side can not really afford to put down as they need all the points they can get.
Crompark v Pudsey Congs
At High Royds Field
Saturday May 10th, 2008
Match report by Dan Appleyard
I sit here, on a lovely evening wondering how to write this report. Please excuse the change in style and formality this week, but I feel it’s the only way to write this one. Let me paint you a picture. It’s the third game into the season and we’re playing a side we CAN beat. It’s a lovely and summery, the sun is out, and despite the busy road on the other side of the trees, and building site around the back of the pavilion, it’s a generally pastoral scene. You look at the side we have, all talented, it’s full of the types of players we need, bowlers, batsmen, great fielders. Brilliant, we’ve got this in the bag.However, that wasn’t the case. After losing the toss and put in to bat, no one seemed to achieve any sort of score that could add up to a defendable target. The only resistance came from the likes of
Abid (8), Kasim (14), Keegan (6) and Stuart (12). Congs ended up 49 all out.
After a quick team talk we agreed that if they could bowl us out for 49, we can, and should, inflict the same to them. However, as Stuart, and more painfully, Dan found out, it was clear that the opening batsmen were there to seal the game as quickly as possible. The first change saw Toby and Tom H came on to replace the opening pair. The only chance of the innings, a lofted ball to mid wicket was grounded. Both youngsters bowled well in their only overs, but seeing as Crompark only needed 2 to win, the skip handed the ball to Keegan, unluckily for him, the batsman wasted no time in sealing the victory. 50 for no loss.
Despite the crushing, and it was a hammering and a half, defeat, the season debut for Danny Cockin showed he is up and rearing to go to help his team to promotion, and that although they didn’t score so many runs today the younger batsmen got some experience of senior cricket and some necessary time in the middle. All was not lost though! Because the game ended so quickly, the opposing captain offered to play a friendly twenty20 to use up the afternoon. So, after about 30 seconds of discussion, Stuart agreed, with each player bowling 2 overs (except the wicket keeper).
Seeing as they were already padded up, Crompark batted first. With Wasim (standing in for Colin) and Tom Huffingly opening the bowling, things were looking good as they took a wicket a piece. Tom Brook and Keegan came on to replace the two, again taking one a piece. After reducing the home team to 23/4 inside 8 overs, vice-skip Apple was wondering whether or not playing this friendly was a good idea, for the skipper’s sanity! Abid came on with his slow-medium right arm to keep the rate down, and Kasim kept the rate consistent with quality line and length. Toby and Stuart had a good bowling partnership, with spin on one end and pace at the other, the batsmen couldn’t settle. It was Stu who struck twice in his allotment though. As the final bowling pair, Steven and Dan closed the game off with a bit of variation. Dan bowled an over of pace, then an over of off spin “earning” a wicket and a run out/stumping. Steven bowled well, but as both bowlers found, the batsmen were looking for a final push. They closed on 134/8 from their twenty overs.
After a quick break Wasim and Steven wandered out to the middle, in a reversed batting line up. However, Steven’s stay lasted one ball and Dan went in next. They shared a short partnership, but Apple succumbed to a straight ball and an awful choice of shot. Toby ventured in and faired no better as he departed for a duck. However, Tom showed that we had fight in us yet, and he and Wasim had a good start to a partnership. However, Wasim departed, and shortly after so did Kasim. The true resistance came when Danny Cockin went out to bat. He and Tom had a good partnership going, with Danny scoring 24 and Tom 12. But, all good things must come to an end as Danny departed, followed by Tom. Keegan and then Stuart went in to finish off the match. Keegan proving his mettle by scoring 11, again showed the fight that was in this young Congs side, and with Stuart scoring quickly, he could relax a little. Bowled by a good ball though, Tom came in for Keegan with 4 balls to go, and more than 40 runs required. Congs finished on 101/8.
It is quite frustrating, not only for the skipper, but for each member of the team that they couldn’t quite achieve as much as they know they should. I wish I was sitting here writing a report for a win, writing about earning 6 points. I know that with the side we had on this hot, humid day, we had the potential to come away victorious. But, you win some, and you lose some. And today our efforts were just not enough. Each player will be going into next week’s game against Baildon with fresh determination to be the best that can be, to earn their team a win and 6 points.
Pudsey Congs v Cookridge
At Fulneck
Saturday May 3rd, 2008
Match report by Dan Appleyard
The first victory of the season against Cookridge saw that, despite there are creases to iron out, there are good signs for the season ahead.
Winning the toss, for the second week in a row, Stuart stuck Cookridge into bat on a green wicket. Opening the bowling, Hardcastle and Appleyard removed Bindman, bowled, and Mahmood, caught by Keegan Moodley, respectively, in the first two overs. With a good line and length, Stuart had the batsmen in allsorts of trouble. However it was Dan who went on to oust Ali, trapped LBW, and Blackburn, bowled, during his stint. Steven Robinson replaced Stuart down the hill with a very tidy spell, which saw his first senior wicket, Bates, bowled, a reward he unquestionably deserved in his penultimate over. Toby Ward replaced Dan coming up the hill with his text book spin. He removed Lacy, caught by Stuart, to hand him his first senior wicket. Because of ECB regulations Robinson had to be taken off after four overs, being replaced by Kasim Mohammed who struck in his first over forcing McMillain to depart, bowled. Cookridge closed on 60/6 due to them having only 8 players, handing Congs their remaining 29 overs.
Appleyard 6-2-18-3, S. Hardcastle 4-0-11-1, S. Robinson 4-1-13-1, T. Ward 2.3-0-6-1, K. Mohammed 1-0-5-1
Chasing 61 from 74 overs, the young Congs side looked set to win. Keegan Moodley and Naeem Aheer opened the batting. After only a couple of overs, both batsmen looked comfortable and kept the board ticking over with well placed shots. However, Aheer fell on 3 to Bates, bowled; followed by Keegan, bowled by Mahmood, on 10. Both we’re unlucky dismissals. Abid Bashir and Matthew Humpleby, a junior making his first appearance for the 4th XI, continued ticking the scoreboard over with neat placement of the ball. However, the major highlight of this partnership was when something that is often rumoured in the back of dressing rooms and dreamt of by the captain, but never seen. Abid ran a two. And again. And again! His reverential knock came to a close when he was caught on 14. His time in the middle edged the Congs to a safe position. Humpleby played some brilliant shots. However, he fell for 4, bowled by McKenzie; but there were definitely some encouraging signs from this youngster. Mohammed, came in and pushed the ball around for 8, as did Stuart for 3 who fell to a deceptive swinging delivery. Wasim Bashir, however, stole the show. He played the batsmen all around the field, and was the only batsmen to score a boundary, a beautifully played hook shot behind square leg, but was caught on 9. Colin “Legend” Nelthorpe and Steve Robinson were the ones who guided the side home with well placed singles and two’s, with Steven hitting the winning run in the 26th over.
Bashir 15, K. Moodley 10, W. Bashir 9
On a warm day, with a pastoral setting at Fulneck, it may appear that the Congs limped to victory, but it was anything but. Brilliant performances from the entire team saw Pudsey attain all 6 points and a boost of confidence for the younger players of the team.
Well done everyone, you deserve it!
Pudsey St Lawrence v Pudsey Congs
At Priesthorpe High School
Saturday April 26th, 2008
Match report by Dan Appleyard
The first match back and there were plenty of promising signs for the season ahead. On a wicket that did nothing to assist the bowlers, and a slow outfield that did not help the batsmen, the boys put maximum effort in.
After winning the toss, Captain Hardcastle stuck St. Lawrence into bat on a damp wicket, with the logic that it will be awful to bat on first. However, as the opening bowlers, Hardcastle and Appleyard found, the wicket was illusive and proved to be a bit fitter than first thought. Dapple found swing early on, much to his frustration, which gave him difficulties coming downhill. Stuart found a good line and length and removed the opener, D. Bartle, clean bowled for zero. Two overs later he was in the wickets again, removing their number three with a stunning catch by Nelthorpe. Good spells from the youngsters, Toby Ward and S teven Robinson, were an encouraging sign for the season ahead. Both without reward, but no doubt deserved it. As Pudsey St Lawrence increased the attack, Stuart decided to hand Abid Bashir the ball to take the pace off. A tight spell from Colin Nelthorpe later on helped keep the run rate down and the game back into our hands. The final spell of Stuart’s saw 3 wickets and a run out, one of which was another catch by Colin which earned him the fielding point.
Appleyard: 13-2-52-0, S. Hardcastle: 12-1-29-5, T. Ward: 8-0-37-0, S. Robinson: 6-0-20-0, A. Bashir: 4-1-24-0, C. Nelthorpe: 2-0-9-0
Chasing 176 to win the openers, Tom Brook and Abid Bashir, got off to a steady start. On a wicket that provided little in pace, they had to work hard to settle themselves. Tom’s hard fought 19 showed that on a different day and a different wicket he would be well on his way for a big score. Abid’s 27 came with its frustrations of balls slowing down in the outfield, not going to the boundary. Abid succumbed to a run out, after believing he was caught which was dropped, and so didn’t make his ground in time. At number 3, Keegan Moodley came in all guns blazing, aiming to help the cause and earn us the 6 points. Unfortunately he fell for 3 after a bizarre delivery that on another day and another wicket he would have pulled to the boundary. After reaching 69 for 3 almost half way through the innings, Stuart stormed in to help the Congs on their way. A hard hitting, quick fire 33, which saw four 6’s and a 4, helped thrust the score from 69/3 to 110/4. After the captain fell it was up to the youth to either guide the Congs to 132 not all out for 2 points or to stick around for the single point. Attempts by Huffingly, Dalton and Robinson to add to the board were fought hard, but unfortunately all succumbed to the ever slowing pitch for 0. Toby Ward and Barney Gibson, who occupied the crease for over 20 overs, saw out the innings with each making 3* and 16* respectively ending on 122/7.
Hardcastle 33, A Bashir 27, T. Brook 19
Opening their promotion chase with a hard earned point, the young and mostly inexperienced Congs side toiled away on a slow wicket and a slow outfield for little reward. They will be going into next week’s game with a fresh determination to ensure that they get the 6 points they deserved today. A hearty well done to the lads for their efforts.