2015 First XI
Bradford League 1st Team
Match Reports 2015
Final League Position = 5th, 268 Points
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Pudsey Congs v East Bierley
At Strikes Britannia Ground
Saturday September 5th, 2015
Matchball Sponsor – Raymond Gambles
Match report by Mick Hirst
Pudsey Congs 256-9 Lindley 86, Geldart 54
East Bierley 235-7
Congs season finished in good style with a 21 run victory over a spirited Bierley side at the Strikes Britannia Ground. Batting first once again, the crowd were treated to another wonderful opening partnership from Callum Geldart and Nick Lindley. Both playing beautifully in their own styles putting on 98 before Geldart was caught in the deep for 54, taking his league aggregate to 912 runs for the season. Skipper Phillips continued with Lindley before being bowled by Hariq with the score on 125. Patel came and went cheaply and Lindley, chipped Jarvis to mid wicket for 86. His aggregate on 861 for the season. An entertaining partnership between Akhtar 25 and Greaves 28 propelled the scoreboard to 256 after our 50 overs.
The Bierley innings started with an injury to Joe Greaves, breaking his thumb in attempting a catch. Ford the first to depart LBW to Pearson, in his final game for the Congs before he returns to Australia. Gill and Hussain played well and Atkins played a wonderful innings of 91*, Bierley ending on 235-7. Ahmed and Pearson taking two wickets each.
Congs taking 18 points to finish in 5th place in the 2015 table.
ECB National T20 Finals
Pudsey Congs v Exmouth
At Swalec Stadium
Tuesday September 1st, 2015
Match report courtesy of the Bradford League Site
Pudsey Congs’ brave run in the NatWest Club T20 came to an end when they suffered a five-wicket defeat to Exmouth in the national semi-finals at Cardiff’s Swalec Stadium, today. The Devon side edged home with one ball to spare as they successfully chased down the Congs’ score of 152-7.
The margin between success and failure are small in T20 contests and Congs will reflect on a number of points when their brave challenge suffered crucial setbacks. Having won the toss and batted first on the pitch that was used for England’s T20 international with Australia yesterday, Congs suffered an early blow when their talismanic opening batsman Callum Geldart was bowled by Ian Bishop for two. The second blow to Congs’ hopes came when skipper Gareth Phillips, anxious to get off the mark, was sent back by Adam Patel when he turned the ball to fine leg, and was run out. Patel looked in good form and raced to 44 with a six and six fours in 22 balls before he became the first of four victims for the Exmouth skipper Gary Chappell. Chappell also trapped Nick Lindley lbw in his first over to leave Congs in trouble at 50-4 and needing to rebuild their innings. Andrew Bairstow, who hit 34 in the last over of the regional final at Chester-le-Street, was the man who led the rebuilding job. Despite wickets falling around him, Bairstow played with good sense. After initially struggling to find his timing, he accelerated gradually and finished unbeaten on 44. James Pearson hit two sixes in an unbeaten 19 as he added a valuable 47 with Bairstow for the eighth wicket to give Congs a competitive score. Bairstow made his runs from 37 balls with six fours and used all of his experience when his side most needed it. The Exmouth skipper Chappell finished with 4-24 and along with Trevor Anning (1-20) ensured that Congs didn’t go on to make the sort of total that would have put them out of reach.
Congs knew they needed to make early inroads when Exmouth batted and Pearson delivered when he had opener Richard Baggs caught at slip by Callum Geldart for one. Congs couldn’t build on that success as opener David Lye started to find the boundary with worrying regularity. Lye hit the ball straight and hard as he and David Pyle took the score to 48 before his partner was bowled by the Congs skipper Gareth Phillips. Bobby Dawson, the former Gloucester batsman, looked determined to stamp his authority on the game. He made a brisk 24 and posed a problem for Phillips when he hammered 16 from off spinner Kez Ahmed’s first over. Phillips was forced to remove Ahmed from the attack and it was a decision which was to leave the captain with another problem later in the match. The impressive Josh Holling (1-26) removed Dawson, but Lye continued to attack and reached his half-century from 34 balls with three sixes and two fours. John Evernett was dismissed by Lindley, the most economical bowler with 1-20, but Congs were to let another chance to snatch the game from their opponents, slip from their fingers. Lye hit a ball from Holling low to long off where the diving Geldart, normally a man with a safe pair of hands, spilled the chance. Lye was eventually bowled by Pearson for 65 but by then the game was virtually up for Congs. Exmouth chipped away at their target and reduced it to eight from the final over. With Pearson, Lindley, Holling and himself bowled out, Phillips, concerned by what had happened to Ahmed in his only over, opted for Joe Greaves to bowl the final over. Five runs came from the first four balls before Sandy Allen lofted a drive over cover which raced to the boundary to seal victory for Exmouth.
The Congs players looked deflated as they left the field to acknowledged their raucous supporters.
They had been defeated but they should be proud of their efforts. Congs’ own platoon of the Barmy Army kept up a barrage of noise throughout the day and even persuaded Sky presenter Mark Butcher and former England paceman Simon Jones to put a plant pot on their heads and join their fun.
There was no doubting who the day’s top fans were. Nobody else was in with a shout.
Woodlands v Pudsey Congs
At Albert Terrace
Saturday August 29th, 2015
Matchball Sponsor – The Bairstows
Match report by Mick Hirst
Woodlands 187 all out
Congs 192-9
Congs dented the Woodlands title chances with an incredible one wicket victory in a magnificent game of cricket at Albert Terrace on Saturday. Woodlands won the toss and decided to bat, Snell and wicketkeeper Finn opening the innings with care against Pearson and Holling. On 30, Holling yorked Snell and two runs later Pearson removing Richardson the same way, 32-2.The impressive Weston then joined Finn and together compiled a long partnership, setting the Woodlands sights on a large total.The introduction of Ahmed changed the game dramatically. With a mixture of poor shots and high quality spin bowling, Ahmed and Geldart reduced Woodlands from 130-2 to 187 all out. Ahmed with top class figures of 13.2-1-53-7.
In reply the in form duo of Geldart and Lindley started brightly, compiling a 50 partnership before Geldart 30 was caught off Swanepoel. Once again the middle order collapsed Congs slipping to 125-8, Brice picking up 5 wickets. Enter Holling to join Greaves. With solid defence and no end of common sense and skill, the pair pushed the Congs total nearer their target. Brice then deceived Greaves, who edged a catch to slip for 63, an outstanding innings spread over eighty five minutes. Seventeen year old Rafique then joined Holling with sixteen runs required and Sarfraz and Brice bowling. With the crowd on the edge of their seats, the young pair picked up the singles before Rafique struck Swanepoel back over long off for six to win the game.
Last Stand…..
Both batsmen finishing on 15*. Holling 58 balls, a wonderful innings from the young man and Rafique 26 balls. Quite outstanding and a great boost heading for Cardiff.
Pudsey Congs v New Farnley
At Strikes Britannia Ground
Saturday August 22nd, 2015
Matchball Sponsor – Pudsey Carpet Centre
Match report by Mick Hirst
New Farnley 172 all out
Congs 108-7
Match abandoned
Both teams picked up eight points in this contest at the Britannia ground on Saturday. The visitors being put in by skipper Phillips, lost Good early caught behind off Pearson. Middlebrook, the former Congs player, was joined by Lawson, both playing confidently against Rafique and Pearson. When Pearson bowled Middlebrook, Congs took control, Goddard caught off Pearson and Lindley taking two wickets in successive balls, Farnley 82 for5. Walker added a quick 36 and a late flurry from Johnson pushed the total to 172, maybe 30 over the Congs preferred total.
Geldart and Lindley set off comfortably on the Congs reply. Lindley hitting Bilal over the square leg boundary for six, before the bowler surprised Geldart with a straight one Lbw. Phillips became his next victim, bowled before Lindley was deceived by Lawson. Once again it was left to Bairstow to hold the innings together, he finished on 24 * with Holroyd when the rain washed out the days play.
ECB National T20 Regional Final
Chester le Street v Pudsey Congs
At Ropery Lane, County Durham
Sunday August 16th, 2015
Match report by Ralph Middlebrook
A dazzling display of batting saw our team progress to the National Final (last four) at the Swalec Stadium, Cardiff on Tuesday 1st September.
Winning the toss on a good pitch and an outfield that was quick, we soon witnessed the sheer class of Callum Geldart. Striking the ball cleanly in a scintillating array of strokes to all parts of the ground (and beyond) followed in rapid succession, a hundred
in 56 balls, 15 x four, 4 x six with sensible authentic shots and intelligent batting placing singles at will to rotate the strike and leave the home side floundering. Finally dismissed for 111, it was the finest innings I have seen in recreational cricket. But it was not a one man show, Captain Phillips out scored Geldart and was the first of the pair to reach 50. Joe Greaves played sensibly for his 16 then Andrew Bairstow put the tin lid on the innings with 53 runs in 16 balls faced including a four and 5 consecutive maximums in the final over, to end on 53 not out and a team score of 250, yes 250 in twenty overs (our second highest total ever in T20 cricket). Bairstow at his best, brilliant. Let’s not forget that the home side are full of quality cricketers and have players with both first class and county second XL cricket experience.
James Pearson and the ever improving Nick Lindley immediately put a tight hold on the home side, Pearson removing the dangerous Wilson, thus it continued. Josh Holling put in a good spell with 1 for 27, Pearson finished with the figures of 4 overs 1 Maiden! 3 for 18 and that man Geldart nipped in with 3 for 22.All the bowlers were supported by excellent fielding throughout, cleverly orchestrated by the Captain but to be objective how do you chase down a score of that magnitude?
A bunch of around 60 supporters witnessed a match that will not be easily forgotten. Neither will be the fact that the 30 who travelled by coach until it broke down at Scotch Corner on the way home.
A very good day for Pudsey Congs Cricket Club.
Pudsey Congs v Pudsey St Lawrence
At Strikes Britannia Ground
Saturday August 8th, 2015
Matchball Sponsor – Peter Marsh
Match report by Mick Hirst
Pudsey Congs 204-9 (50 overs)
Pudsey St Lawence 208-3 (41.5 overs)
A second successive league defeat to local rivals and table topping PSL on Saturday at the Strikes Britannia ground. Batting first once again, Lindley was caught at square leg for 0, with the score on 12, the openers run of low scores continuing after a brilliant first half of the season. Phillips joining Geldart batting sensibly against the accuracy of the PSL chairman and opening bowler Hutchinson, before the captain was trapped LBW with the score on 56. Soon to become 62-3, Patel caught off the bowling of Lamb. Hutchinson then removed Geldart for 45 and Greaves to leave the Congs in disarry at 87-5. Hutchinson bowling his 15 overs 3-41. It was left to Bairstow and Akhtar to pick up the pieces against the spin attack, Akhtar scoring 20 before falling 115-6. Ahmed, Pearson out 149-8 with 42 balls left. Bairstow continued on with Holroyd playing sensibly they added 49 before Bairstow fell in the 50th over for 49. Holroyd finishing 31 not out.
Waite fell early LBW to Phillips and a difficult chance offered by Robertshaw was missed. However a mix up on 40 and Goldthorpe was run out by Greaves. This brought in Marsden with Robertshaw, together compiling a match winning partnership of 110 against a limp Congs attack. Marsden departed for 67 with the score on 150 but Smith and Robertshaw cantered home with 49 balls to spare.
Very comfortable for the league leaders.
ECB National T20 Final
Pudsey Congs v Ticknall
At Undercliffe (Intake Rd)
Sunday August 2nd, 2015
Match report by Mick Hirst
Pudsey Congs 165-5 Geldart 80, Lindley 31
Ticknell 137-9
In the Area Final against Ticknell from the North Derby league, Phillips won the toss and batted once again. Not the start Congs were looking for, Patel bowled by Khan then Phillips departing first ball. 8-2. Lindley joined his Saturday opening partner to rebuild the innings. It was a joy to watch, Geldart 80 powerful timing, crashing the ball to all areas, magnificent, whilst Lindley 31 playing the singles, rotating the strike, the stylish team player every team would love to have. When both departed after adding 124, a late flourish of 21 from Akhtar took the Congs total to an average score of 165-5.
In Ticknells reply Congs had a wonderful start, the dangerous Wood, who scored a century in the first match, caught behind off Pearson in the first over. With Lindley picking up two quick scalps Ticknell were 34-3 after 5 overs, but with Derby player Borrington still at the crease. With wickets falling around him, he began to up the tempo, and the target of 14 per over was under threat until he holed out to the man Lindley off Phillips. Kez Ahmed and Phillips bowled out the final overs with Ticknell ending on 137-9.
A superb performance from the whole team, bowling and fielding at the highest level of the season. In the National Quarter Final we now play Chester le street at home, possible date is Sunday August 16th.
ECB National T20 Semi Final
Pudsey Congs v Wickersley
At Undercliffe (Intake Rd)
Sunday August 2nd, 2015
Match report by Mick Hirst
Pudsey Congs 138-9 Greaves 39*
Wickersley 118 – Phillips 3-10, Lindley 3-26
Congs batted first scoring 138 – 9 in their allotted overs, Joe Greaves making a vital 39 not out on a slow wicket against a useful Wickersley attack. Congs struck early in the Wickersley reply with Phillips and Lindley picking up wickets. The Congs bowling and fielding was at the highest level as they continued to apply pressure on the batsmen. Phillips 4-0-10-3, Lindley 3-0-26-3, Geldart 3-0-17-2, Ahmed 3.4-0-29-2, Wickersley finally all out for 118.
Saltaire v Pudsey Congs
At Roberts Park
Saturday August 1st, 2015
Match report by Mick Hirst
Pudsey Congs 128-6 (24 overs)
Saltaire 129-6 (23.1 overs)
Congs lost at Roberts Park in a rain interupted day on Saturday. With no other matches played in the division both teams were keen to gain points on there rivals. On a difficult pitch after the downpours, Congs struggled to 128-6 in the 24th over before declaring to set up a match win situation. Greaves top scoring with 34. In reply Saltaire lost two early wickets to Pearson and skipper Phillips before Ayuob and Ayub put together a solid partnership of 80 . The slow left arm of Lindley put the Congs back in the game at 121-6 with six balls remaining but a long hop from Pearson soon ended the game, Saltaire winning by four wickets. Congs remain in sixth place with the Tofts roaders arriving next weekend.
Pudsey Congs v Lightcliffe
At Strikes Britannia Ground
Saturday July 25th, 2015
Matchball Sponsor – Tony Vann
Match report by Ralph Middlebrook
Nerves were jangling after the Cup defeat but thanks to Geldart, Ahmed and Pearson, our fears were unfounded as we moved to 6th place in the League. The League table has fluctuated this season and an exciting finale is anticipated both at the top and in the relegation zone.
A good toss to win but apart from the thrilling display by Geldart our batters were dismissed with a series of indifferent shots. Kez Ahmed showed how it should be done with an intelligent innings of defence until the last three overs when he hit 4 maximums to score 45 crucial runs. How do you describe Callum’s innings? Steady start, shaky period and thereafter brilliant, a joy to watch – 118 of 112 balls 9×4, 5×6. Kez batted for 47 balls! Josh Wheatley with 4 for 50 was Lightcliffe’s best bowler in a side that battled throughout.
Pearson and Phillips launched the Congs attack and the Captain took the first two wickets. James Pearson then with some serious pace bowling worked hard and well to keep the batters under pressure. Good support from Holling (3 for 17) and two outstanding slip catches by Geldart. Despite resistance, Congs were not to be denied and ran out worthy winners.
A good performance, batters bat longer but well done. More please.
Heavy Woollen Cup Semi Final
Woodlands v Pudsey Congs
At Albert Terrace
Sunday July 18th, 2015
Match report by Mick Hirst
Woodland 189 all out
Congs 55 all out
Congs gave up their Heavy Woollen trophy after another Sunday horror show at Albert Terrace . Having witnessed the Priestley Cup Semi the previous Sunday, not many would have banked on a repeat performance, but we got one. Having bowled first and with skipper Phillips 10-3-28-3 and Pearson 10-1-15-1 bowling terrific spells, Congs reduced Woodlands to 189 all out, having been 67-5 at one stage. Jordan Laban making 49 and wicket keeper Finn 32.
It would also be a testing total but no one could foresee what was to come. Geldart lbw, Phillips bowled by Richardson jnr and Lindley and Bairstow caught behind the wicket off Sarfraz. Greaves, Patel, Ahmed gone, Congs 37-8. A flurry from Holroyd top scoring with 13, finally all out 55.
Sorry nothing more to say !!!
Bradford & Bingley v Pudsey Congs
At Wagon Lane
Saturday July 18th, 2015
Matchball Sponsor – Ian Lindley
Match report by Mick Hirst
Pudsey Congs 283-9 Callum Geldart 177
Bradford and Bingley 251 – Nick Lindley 6-79
Congs consolidated their position in the league with a 32 run victory over Bradford & Bingley at Wagon Lane on Saturday. Batting first on a good batting surface, the Congs amassed a total of 283 in their 50 overs, which was largely due to a magnificent 177 from opener Callum Geldart. Back to his regular position at the top of the order Geldart produced supreme, powerful strokeplay including 5 sixes and 21 fours dispatching the Bingley bowlers to all parts of the ground. In their reply, Josh Holling struck a vital blow early, having the dangerous Slater caught in the slips for 6. Best went LBW to Phillips before Clow and Etherington carefully rebuilt. That man Geldart then got a LBW decision against Clow leaving the home side 93-4. The hard hitting Thompson 34, and Noman Ali 34 continued the attack, before both fell to the left arm spin of Lindley. With Pearson picking up a wicket, Lindley finally bowling Simpson to leave him with his best bowling figures of 6-79. Twenty points and a solid performance.
Lightcliffe v Pudsey Congs
Semi Final
At Wakefield Rd
Sunday July 12th, 2015
Match report by Mick Hirst
Lightcliffe 192-8
Congs 87 all out
Quite simply the most embarrassing, humiliating day of cricket I have ever played in or watched for Pudsey Congs. On a beautiful pitch, warm sunny day Lightcliffe won toss and batted. A.Stead compiling a patient 64 for the hosts, in their total of 192-8. Ahmed bowling a fine spell 10-1-22-2 and Pearson 10-0-47-3. The Congs fielding and catching was very good. In reply, Ahmed and Lindley opened for the Congs and cruised safely through the first four overs with few problems. When Lindley departed, caught mis timing a pull off the experienced Burton, the batsmen hit the self destruct button. A collection of reckless, brainless shots reduced the Congs to a pathetic 63-8 before Pearson struck a quick 27*, finally all out 87 in just 23 overs. Pick of the Lightcliffe bowlers were Burton with 5-30 and S.Khan 3-31. Alex Stead batted 142 minutes for his 62, the total Congs batsmen batted 144 minutes. Absolutely pathetic. Bradford and Bingley away on Saturday and Woodlands in Heavy Woollen cup semi on Sunday, Dont think either will be losing much sleep this week!
Pudsey Congs v Farsley
At Strikes Britannia Ground
Saturday July 11th, 2015
Matchball Sponsor – Barry Wilson
Match report by Mick Hirst
Pudsey Congs 317-7
Farsley 303 all out
Congs won the local derby by just 14 runs in a magnificent game of cricket at the Britannia Ground on Saturday. Played on a flat, hard pitch, beautiful for batting, Congs won the toss and batted first. In a change to the batting line up Phillips departed early bowled by Hendy for 5, bringing Greaves to the crease. With Lindley looking as good as ever at one end, Greaves batted with great determination and care, the two putting together a solid partnership, before Greaves was caught for 42. Geldart contributed a dazzling 66, Bairstow 60, and a late flourish from Akhtar 28*. Lindley unfortunately dismissed 11 short of his century.
In reply, Farsley started carefully before Pickles 54, led the charge. He was assisted by contributions from Hodgson 46, Harrison 73, and a superb 49* from Henry which almost took to the visitors to victory. Kez Ahmed bowling 15-0-82-5, a terrific spell under pressure from the off spinner and James Pearson 13.3-1-70-3, solid as ever, just taking the Congs to victory.
A great match and great credit to Farsley.
Pudsey Congs v Pudsey St Lawrence
T20 Final
At Tofts Rd
Sunday June 28th, 2015 (5.00pm)
Match report by Mick Hirst
Congs 231-6 (20 overs) Geldart 45 in 17 balls, Patel 88 in 43 balls, Greaves 59* in 37 balls.
PSL 226-7 (20 overs) Duce 80 in 38 balls and Smith 51 in 33 balls
Pudsey Congs became the first team to win the Twenty/20 Cup three times when they defeated their arch-rivals Pudsey St Lawrence by five runs in a thrilling final at Tofts Road.
Congs who also won the trophy in 2012 and 2014 were made to fight hard for their victory on a finals day which saw the three matches produce a staggering 1,138 runs with 51 sixes.
The final was a worthy climax to an excellent day's cricket which was managed superbly by the hosts Pudsey St Lawrence.
The one thing they couldn't arrange was a final victory for their side, but there aren't many teams in the JCT600 Bradford League that have come so close to chasing down a score as big as Pudsey Congs' 231-6 in 20 overs.
Openers Callum Geldart and Adam Patel were the heroes of last year's final triumph over Woodlands under the lights at Bradford & Bingley, and they played key roles in helping their club retain the trophy. Geldart, who scored a century in the 2014 final, raced to 45 off 17 balls in an opening stand of 95 with Patel, who has just returned to action after a knee injury. Patel reached his half-century from just 22 balls and went on to make 88. His 43-ball innings contained six sixes and ten fours. The suffering didn't end there for the St Lawrence bowlers. Joe Greaves hammered an unbeaten 59 to push the total up to 231-6. The total was short of the final record of 252-4 they set last year, but it represented a formidable challenge.
St Lawrence, who had chased down a Woodlands score of 203-4 to win with two balls to spare in the semi-finals, made a bold attempt.
Like Congs, they were seeking a third final triumph having won previously in 2009 and 2010, and as long as their third-wicket pair of Matthew Duce and James Smith were at the wicket, they were very much in the hunt.
They shared a stand of 104 which produced some big hitting. Duce, who top scored with 80, hit five sixes and nine fours, while Smith's 51 contained three sixes and five fours. St Lawrence tried valiantly to keep up with the required rate after Duce and Smith were dismissed, but it just proved too much for them. Pudsey Congs were crowned champions at the end of a great day's entertainment.
Congs won by 5 runs in a memorable final. Congs are the first club to win the competition three times. Many congratulations to Gareth and the team.
Pudsey Congs v Hanging Heaton
T20 Semi Final
At Tofts Rd
Sunday June 28th, 2015 (2.00pm)
Match report by Mick Hirst
Hanging Heaton 135 all out – Kez Ahmed 4-24
Congs 138-6 Geldart 42, Lindley 26 * in 17.3 overs
Undercliffe v Pudsey Congs
At Intake Rd
Saturday June 27th, 2015
Matchball Sponsor – Luke Holyroyd
Match report by Mick Hirst
Undercliffe 273-6
Congs 274-9 – Geldart 46, Lindley 60, Phillips 37, Bairstow 37 & Patel 31.
In a breathtaking match at Intake road, Congs won off the very last ball of the game. Undercliffe batted first scoring 273 for 6 in their 50 overs with G.Ahmed recording 93 and F.Hussain 45. Josh Holling taking 3-78 for Congs.
In reply the in form pair of Geldart and Lindley started very well taking the score to 93 before Geldart departed for 46 in the 13th over. Phillips continued to take the attack to Undercliffe before he got out. The experienced pair of Bairstow and the fit again Patel, batted well before the last wicket pair of Holling and Pearson scrambled the final run of the last ball to give the Congs a tremendous victory.
Bankfoot v Pudsey Congs
Quarter Final
At Wickets Close
Sunday June 21st, 2015
Match report by Mick Hirst
Congs 295-7 Geldart 72, Bairstow 54, Phillips 43, Greaves 33, Lindley 32
Bankfoot 193 all out
Congs reached the Semi Final of the Priestley Cup with a 102 run win over Bankfoot on Sunday. All the top five scoring runs, as above in the Congs total of 295-7. A determined and brave effort from the second division side, who really gave it a go with the bat before being bowled out for 193 in the 36th over. All the bowlers picking up one or two wickets on a day when the weather was more suited to Rugby at Odsal.
A good victory, Lightcliffe away at Wakefield Road in the Semi Final on Sunday July 12th.
East Bierley v Pudsey Congs
At South View Rd
Saturday June 20th, 2015
Matchball Sponsor – Towergate Insurance
Match report by Mick Hirst
Pudsey Congs 87 all out
East Bierley 88-6
Congs went down by 4 wickets on a dreadful day at East Bierley on Saturday. Batting first on a poor pitch Congs battled hard early on, with Geldart and Greaves working hard to repair the loss of the reliable pair of Lindley and Phillips. 53 –2 before Greaves 15 was caught at cover. Bairstow came and went, allegedly LBW to Lumb, a puzzling decision. The pantomine continued with Akhtar, Holroyd and Ahmed departing in successive balls to Lumb. 68-8 when Pearson joined Geldart, Congs in disarray, Geldart hitting out with partners running out, went to a fine 50 before becoming Lumbs seventh victim. Pearson was the last man out clean bowled and Congs 87 all out in 19.4 overs. The cricket chairman not in the best of moods at the interval.
East Bierley replied with Gill and Ford making things look easy 39-0, where were the demons in the pitch? The breakthrough came on 44, Holling removing Gill, thanks to a brilliant catch by Bairstow and Ahmed having Hussain stumped for 0. A flurry of wickets from Pearson and Ahmed 73-6, interesting!!! However not to be with Hamilton and Gill seeing Bierley to their target. Seventh place now the Congs, wins still required going into the second half of the season.
Pudsey Congs v Woodlands
At Strikes Britannia Ground
Saturday June 13th, 2015
Matchball Sponsor -Joan Marsh
Match report by Mick Hirst
Congs were defeated for the third time this season after a 3 wicket loss to Woodlands at the Strikes Britannia ground on Saturday. Batting first on another perfect pitch, Ahmed opened with the in form Lindley against the accurate opening partnership of Sarfraz and Elliot Richardson. In the ninth over Ahmed was dismissed, Phillips joining Lindley taking the score to 41 before Phillips was caught behind in Swanepoels first over. When Geldart came to the crease the momentum of the innings changed, both playing superbly, a pleasure to watch, Congs at drinks 99-2. When Geldart was caught with the score on 112, things took a dramatic turn. Brice showing his class, deceiving the Congs batsmen in to playing rash shots, suddenly 7 wickets had fallen for 56 runs. Holling and Rafique took the score to 180 all out in the 47th over. Lindley once again top scoring 71 but a poor effort from the batsmen.
The Congs started well, Frankland removed by Holling and Scott Richardson by Phillips. Pearson bowling with great hostility keeping the Woodlands batsmen under wraps. Snell and Weston survived and put together 41 partnership before Rafique run out Snell. He followed up by removing Soames LBW, 98-4, Rafique 7-2-13-1,very impressive. However Weston was playing the anchor role and with the experienced Brice, they put together a 50 stand which took the visitors almost to the winning line. A couple of wickets to Ahmed 13-3 41–2 gave the Congs hope, but Swanepoel and Weston 59 * hit the winning runs. An excellent bowling effort from all the Congs bowlers
but not enough runs on the board.
Congs 180 all out, Woodlands 181 -7
Heavy Woollen Cup Second Round
Hanging Heaton v Pudsey Congs
At Bennett Lane
Sunday June 7th, 2015
Match report by Mick Hirst
Pudsey Congs 344-3 – Lindley 115 *, Phillips 76, Geldart 64
Hanging Heaton 189
After Saturdays victory Congs went to Bennett Lane with a spring in their step, and real eagerness to reverse the result from a week ago. Winning the toss, Congs openers Lindley and the youngster Roberts started strongly. Both playing carefully at first then despatching the bad ball to the boundary in great style. On 52 Roberts departed caught behind the wicket for 21. This brought together captain Phillips and Nick Lindley who continued their fine form with a majestic partnership of 157, littered with elegant strokeplay, a real pleasure to watch two batsmen on top form. On 209 Phillips went for 76, and Geldart walked to the crease. Twenty nine minutes and 20 balls later, he reverse swept Connolly for six into Bennett Lane, to bring up his 50. Absolute, brutal innings. Geldart finally fell for 64, a magnificent innings that completely took the game away from the home side. Lindley went on to his century in the 48th over, a very special innings of high quality, fully appreciated by his team mates and the watching crowd.
In reply Fellows and Connolly set off at a gallop 32 from 4 overs, before Phillips in his first over had Fellows well caught on the cover boundary by Lindley. Young Rafique bowling at a lively pace then struck twice, Fraser caught at slip and Philliskirk caught at backward point. He was supported by Holling who also took two wickets, a terrific effort from the two young men. When Ahmed had Elvidge LBW and Stiff caught, the game was up. Late hitting by Dawood before he was stumped off Ahmed who finished with four wickets.
Victory by 156 runs, a magnificent all round team performance, Gomersal away in the next round.
New Farnley v Pudsey Congs
At the Barry Jackson ground
Saturday June 6th, 2015
Matchball Sponsor – Mick & Tracey Hirst
Match report by Mick Hirst
New Farnley 209-9 and Pudsey Congs 210–6
New Farnley captain Lawson won the toss and elected to bat, openers Richardson and Good facing the new ball partnership of Pearson and Rafique. Good the first to depart, an excellent catch from Holroyd off the bowling of Pearson. Holling replaced Rafique and removed Richardson immediately with the middle stump flying out of the ground. The experience of Middlebrook and the youth of Qasim began the rebuild the innings before the former was adjudged run out by a direct throw from Geldart for 31. Lawson and Qasim took the score to 140 before Lawson was out. The last ten overs and the return of Pearson restricted Farnley to 209-9 in their 50 overs. Qasim 69, Pearson 4-35 and Holling 3-44 .
In reply, Holling was promoted to open but was bowled by Lawson in the 5th over. The in form Phillips joined Lindley, both playing beautifully especially Lindley who stroked an elegant 55 before being run out. Phillips 31 and Geldart 21 both fell to Middlebrook before 17 year old Arbaab and Bairstow added a vital 48 partnership. It was left to Holroyd and the superb Bairstow to take the Congs to victory with one ball to spare. Bairstow 47 * from 48 balls. A terrific game a credit to both teams and supporters.
Pudsey Congs v Hanging Heaton
At Strikes Britannia Ground
Saturday May 30th, 2015
Matchball Sponsor – David Carr
Match report by Mick Hirst
Pudsey Congs 248-4
Hanging Heaton 249-3 42.5 overs
Congs suffered their second successive defeat hammered by Hanging Heaton by 7 wickets. Having batted well to score 248 in their 50 overs, with excellent contributions from captain Phillips 91 not out, Lindley 55 and Geldart 38, Congs produced a poor display with the ball. The quality opening pair of Fellows and Connolly taking full advantage of the wayward bowling, compiling an opening stand of 181 before Fellows was bowled by Rafique for 73. Pearson and Holling picked up two quick wickets but the visitors cantered home to their target with 43 balls left, Connolly a magnificent 123 not out. Next up New Farnley on Saturday and Hanging Heaton away on Sunday in the Heavy Woollen cup.
Much improvement needed.
Pudsey St Lawrence v Pudsey Congs
At Tofts Road
Monday May 25th, 2015
Matchball Sponsor – Pudsey Carpet Centre
Match report by Mick Hirst
Pudsey St Lawrence 216-5
Pudsey Congs 104 all out
Congs travelled to Tofts Road on Bank Holiday Monday in good spirits after maintaining their unbeaten record on Saturday at home to Saltaire. Unfortunately all the good cricket they have played and the high standards they have attained so far this season were blown apart by the league leaders. The home side batting first, under dark cloud cover, lost Waite early caught behind off Pearson. Frankland followed caught off Haris Mohammed. Phillips replaced Pearson from the Tofts road end and immediately he and Ahmed slowed the scoring rate, Hudson promoted to four was finally deceived by Phillips, Pearson taking the catch. Robertshaw and Marsden played carefully, building the innings before Robertshaw departed for a super 70. Smith and Duce hit late boundaries before Ahmed took the wicket of Smith to finish with 15-3-50-1. Phillips 12-3-39-1. Both sides reasonably happy 216.
Nothing much to say about the second half, just a collection of poor shot choice, poor application and very little common sense against an average attack. 62-9 after 25 overs. Until Kez Ahmed 40 and Haris Mohammed, the only Congs players to emerge with any credit, put together 42 partnership for the last wicket. Something for the Congs fans to cheer at last on a desperately, disappointing day.
Pudsey Congs v Saltaire
At Strikes Britannia Ground
Saturday May 23rd, 2015
Matchball Sponsor – AA Mowers
Match Report by Ralph Middlebrook
Congs moved into second place in the League table with a convincing 8 wicket win on the warmest day of Summer so far. Losing the toss, Pearson and Holling set about bowling out Saltaire on the blameless surface. Both bowled well although wickets were hard to come by but with Phillips rotating his bowlers in short spells they shared 7 wickets, 5 for Pearson, 2 for Holling – all well earned. Rafique and Harris took over, Rafique quick, Harris with movement both through the air and off the pitch, impressive.They shared 3 wickets. Although Ahmed’s figures do not look great he bowled better than his figures suggest. Congs plugged away, the bowlers learning how bowl on a first class surface, they were backed up the noise and commitment from the fielders but would suggest they use both hands to pick up the ball before throwing to the keeper. The team deserved to capture all ten although Saltaire can be pleased how they battled throughout.
Having to score 160 to win, Geldart and Lindley started confidently yet carefully playing shots all round the ground whenever the medium pace attack strayed in line or length. All went smoothly until Geldart 36 departed with the score on 83 caught behind the wicket. Phillips lasted two deliveries caught brilliantly in the gully by Ayub off Bergota. With Patel and Butt missing from the line up, the next wicket could be very important, however Bairstow had no fears, playing with flair and aggression he and the reliable Lindley took the Congs to victory with an unbroken partnership of 76 in the 29th over. Lindley making 52 not out and Bairstow 58 not out off 50 balls with 7 fours and 3 sixes. This win takes the Congs into second place behind the local rivals in the league. Please go to Tofts Road on Monday to watch, it will surely be a classic match.
Congs 160-2, Saltaire 159 all out
Pudsey Congs v Bowling Old Lane
Second Round
At Strikes Britannia Ground
Sunday May 17th, 2015
Match Report by Ralph Middlebrook
Congs stormed to an overwhelming 9 wicket win against Old Lane who batted stubbornly and skilfully to reach 181 using all their 50 overs. A partnership of 64 was the backbone of the innings by Ahsan Butt and Ayyaz Akram which ended with a magnificent catch by Adam Patel who ran, stretched and stumbled but hung on as he crashed to the turf. Surprise package Joe Greaves started the action, Pearson collected 3 for 27 and Ahmed 3 for 23 as Captain Phillips used his bowling resources cleverly. Neat catches by Geldart and Butt (was this really his last game?) kept this confident Congs team in the game on a beautiful batting pitch prepared by Graham Curtis.
Geldart and Lindley emphasised the true nature of this batting paradise, racing to a partnership of 159. Geldart was out for 98 in 48 balls 10 boundaries 8 maximums (88 in total) with Lindley remaining calm to see us home and into the next round in 19 overs !!
A weekend of top cricket as we await the visit of a full strength Yorkshire team to face the Bradford league side, what a prospect!
Oh I nearly forgot, in the morning our under 11 side defeated Buttershaw St Paul’s,well played boys and girls.
Lightcliffe v Pudsey Congs
At Wakefield Road
Saturday May 16th, 2015
Matchball Sponsor – Nova Coin
Match Report by Ralph Middlebrook
On a day which eventually saw all four of our senior teams WIN, it was a delight to enjoy the beautiful ground and surrounds in sunny but chilly conditions. A top class pitch and fast outfield made for quick run getting, but after playing several quality shots, Geldart, Lindley and Phillips all became careless and didn’t cash in on the ideal batting conditions. Butt and Patel did to devastating effect, the bowling was good especially Burton but any error in line or length was severely punished as they struck the ball with power and timing which, with excellent running between the wickets, was impossible for Lightcliffe to contain. Admitted they didn’t catch well but 16 boundaries and 6 maximums for these two tells the quality of batting. One of Patel’s 6s was huge, it may possibly have gone into orbit.
Our bowling had plenty of power also spearheaded by the hostile Pearson and the improving Holling, aided by two magnificent catches by keeper Holroyd Congs were on fire. A run out and the developing off spin of Ahmed, realised a crushing win for a side that full of intent and confidence.
It was a top victory.
Pudsey Congs v Bradford & Bingley
At Strikes Britannia Ground
Saturday May 9th, 2015
Matchball Sponsor – Sam Miller
Match Report by Mick Hirst
Bradford & Bingley 123-8 in 30 overs
Congs 124-4
Congs remain unbeaten after a six wicket win over Bradford and Bingley on Saturday.
After the monsoon conditions on Friday, the 14 points collected by the team owes much to their committment and hard work on the outfield and wicket during the morning. A top class effort from all. Play began at 3.00 pm, a thirty(30) over a side contest, Bingley winning the toss and electing to bat on a damp surface. Slater hitting Phillips for 3 boundaries in his first over before Lindley had the Bingley skipper well caught by Pearson on the long on boundary.Kez Ahmed and Lindley then took control reducing Bingley from 65-1 to 93-8 before a late flurry from Clow to the total to 123. Kez Ahmed 5-31, Nick Lindley 3-32.
In reply Congs lost a wicket off the very first ball, Geldart caught off the bowling of Hartley. Skipper Phillips joined Lindley and played aggressively before edging to the keeper off Thompson. With Lindley batting defiantly at one end and Greaves riding his luck, the scoreboard was ticking along before both departed in quick succession – Lindley 37 and Greaves 30. With batting becoming increasingly more difficult on a drying pitch, Bairstow and Patel led the Congs home with 1 over to spare. The win takes the Congs into 3rd place behind PSL and Woodlands.
Please note the rearranged 2nd round Heavy Woollen match v Hanging Heaton will be played on Sunday June 7th at 1.00 at Bennett Lane. This weekend sees a double header of Lightcliffe away on Saturday and Priestley Cup v Bowling Old Lane at home on Sunday.
Farsley v Pudsey Congs
First Round
At Red Lane
Sunday May 3rd, 2015
Matchball Sponsor – Towergate Insurance
Match Report by Mick Hirst
Pudsey Congs 202-9, 39 overs
Farsley 179 all out
Pudsey Congs progressed to the second round of the Priestley cup with a 23 run victory over Farsley at Red Lane on Sunday in a rain affected tie. Batting first on a wet, slow wicket Congs lost opener Geldart early caught in the slip area. This brought the in form Phillips to the crease and he and partner Lindley put together a partnership of 67 before Phillips 38 departed. Joe Greaves joined Lindley and together started to increase the momentum of the innings before Lindley having just completed a skilful fifty, mistimed a pull and was caught at mid wicket, thus ended a partnership of 61 with Greaves. Patel compiled a robust 35 and Greaves 32 and the Congs finished on 202 –9 after their 39 overs.
In reply Farsley lost two quick wickets leaving them 28-2 after 9 overs. Yorkshire players Hodgson and Wainman then started the comeback taking the score over the hundred mark before Hodgson aiming to hit Lindley was stumped for 61 ending a partnership of 98 with Wainman. Rafique then bowled Wainman 27 in the next over and Congs were back in the game.The return of Holling proved decisive as the young seamer wrapped up the Farsley tail, finishing with splendid figures of 6-0-22-4. An all round terrific performance from the Congs, who now look ahead to the visit of Bradford/Bingley at home next weekend.
Cleckheaton v Pudsey Congs
At Moorend
Saturday April 25th, 2015
Matchball Sponsor – Derrick Reason
Match Report by Ralph Middlebrook
Congs travelled to Champions Cleckheaton, who suffered a shock defeat against Bradford and Bingley last week, but what a transformation from our excellent attack last week to a lengthy period of carnage as our seamers explored the middle of the pitch and messers Jackson and Gorrod hit the ball to all parts with alarming regularity. Make no mistake they are two good batters and they collected 21 boundaries plus 6 maximums as they hit a century each. Good to watch unless you were a Congs supporter!! Captain Phillips removed all three seamers from the battering, including himself while Kez Ahmed did well to restrict the flow and finally deceived Gorrod with a beautifully flighted off break which gripped and turned. Nick Lindley also did well to try and staunch the flow of runs, not expecting to bowl 15 overs, he gained success after a period of pressure. Congs only bowled two maiden overs with Greaves and Geldart ending the innings as Gareth either spared or punished his seamers by letting them concentrate on fielding, which overall was mediocre and Luke Holroyd will have better days behind the stumps.
When Congs batted they started out with intent but with Ian Wardlow bowling quickly and new signing Free looking hostile in dull light, it was not easy. Three quick wickets did not help but Captain Phillips and Adam Patel got a grip on the situation which admittedly eased when Altaf and Deegan, the two spinners operated. Phillips looked in very good form and Patel showed plenty of confidence as the game continued in rain, the umpires permitted play to continue for a good period but when it became obvious the match could be completed, they rightly abandoned the game. What would have happened? Cleckheaton were favourites but as reported Phillips and Patel were definitely in charge. Disappointing end though.
Next weekend double Farsley in League and Cup!
Heavy Woolen Cup First Round
Scholes v Pudsey Congs
At New Popplewell Lane
Sunday April 19th, 2015
Match Report
Holders Pudsey Congs rewrote history as they established a new Club high score in the first round of the Solly Sports Heavy Woollen Cup.
Congs made a mammoth total of 447-6 as they crushed JCT600 Bradford League newcomers Scholes by 358 runs.
Andrew Bairstow (87), Babar Butt (78), Callum Geldart (77) and Nick Lindley (72) and Luke Holroyd (50) took advantage of a weakened Scholes side who made 79-6 in reply.
Pudsey Congs v Undercliffe (Season Opener)
At the Strikes Britannia Ground
Saturday April 18th, 2015
Matchball Sponsor – Jayne Verity
Match Report by Mick Hirst
Pudsey Congs 240-7
Undercliffe 113 all out
Pudsey Congs started the new season in tremendous style with a 127 run win over Undercliffe at the Strikes Britannia ground on Saturday.
Batting first on a excellent looking wicket, Geldart and Lindley began confidently with the first six scoring shots all reaching the boundary. With the score on 28 Geldart was dismissed for 14 caught at mid wicket. Phillips joined Lindley, both batting cautiously but skillfully compiling a 120 run partnership before Lindley was dismissed for a splendid 77 off 91 balls. Greaves and Patel soon followed before Bairstow joined Phillips to push the score beyond 225, captain Phillips completing a superb century and well deserved. The innings closed on 240-7 with Phillips out for 108 off 144 balls.
In reply Undercliffe lost opener Hussain in the first over, caught by Holroyd off Pearson. With 19 year old newcomer Holling at the other end also bowling well, the Undercliffe batsmen were struggling for runs. When Kez Ahmed removed Ashraf LBW it was left to G.Ahmed to keep the scoreboard ticking over. However, the return of Pearson and Holling proved decisive, Pearson in particular bowling quick, knocking over the middle order. Ahmed 58 was bowled by Holling and Pearson took the final wicket to record figures of 12.3-4-13-5, a superb spell of bowling. Holling finishing 11-2-42-3, an excellent performance on debut.
A fine all round team performance and excellent start to the season.