2nd XI vs Hutton CC, 2nd XI

In a new chapter, the 'Rhythm and Blues' started off their Division 1 campaign with a 47 run win against local rivals Hutton.

The hosts won the toss and returning captain James Salisbury elected to bat on what appeared to be a dry hard wicket on a warm sunny day at the SCG.

Openers Massie (33) and Allen (50) got Shenfield off to a fast and bludgeoning start. However with a whopping 21 minutes at the crease, ‘Les Mis’ eventually fell to an excellent catch at cover with the score at 43-1.

Joey Newbould and Allen, put on a solid 66 for the next wicket, before Mad Dog was adjudged leg before at the 8^th time of asking. Joey fell shortly after to a difficult delivery that showed there was some real spin, grip and bounce from only the bottom end for 24.

Resident chimney sweep Nathan Woods and 2XI debutant Will Ovenden batted nicely together before the Oven fell for a well worked 20. Woods continued to hit the ball to all corners, making use of the fast outfield to build a very handy partnership with Salisbury of 87 runs. After the skipper despatched 2 in 2 out of the ground, he shortly went back to his old traditional technique and snicked off for a well batted 34.

With the score at 280-6 Woods continued to pierce the gaps and run hard between the wickets. Despite losing a few partners in quick succession, Nate Dogg kept the momentum in Shenfield's favour and eventually brought up his maiden Shenfield century! Eventually falling for 103, the only chance he gave all day. Shenfield concluded their innings on 290-9.

On what was a warm tough day in the dirt, Hutton started cautiously against Quant (0-22) and Castell (0-25) who bowled a very tight opening spell. The opening partnership amassed over 120 before young Cockerell, fresh from a Hawksmoor dinner & house party, claimed his first scalp of the day. This was shortly followed by a classic Woods run out to add to his already excellent day.

Ovenden (2-45) joined OC to bowl in tandem taking over from senior sheriffs Sparky (1-36) and Borman (1-45). The 2 young spinners pegged Hutton back who were starting to enjoy the favourable batting conditions, and the run rate began to climb ever higher. The Oven took a key wicket, and with a sharp catch from Newbould with the gloves, Hutton’s momentum began to run out and were left chasing the game. With the required run rate up to circa 12’s, the skipper saw it fit to bring back the ‘experienced’ off spinners to finish off proceedings. Hutton’s final total being 243-8.

A great winning start to the season was enjoyed by all at a busy SCC, and was great to see so many 1stXI players come back after their early finish to support and enjoy the sweet fizzy taste of victory.

Shenfield host Epping next week in what is sure to be a tough and high scoring encounter. 2 sides that have both come down and know each other well. However, Shenfield will relish the encounter and aim to build on the positive batting performance whilst aiming to keep that control and pressure with the ball.

JSB