OLD COLSTONIANS  v  COLSTONS SCHOOL 1st X1       17TH June  2022

A warm sunny afternoon, in short, perfect cricket weather, saw the O.C.s win the toss and elect to bat, in the annual 20 over match against the School.

      The early batsmen were contained by the School bowling, although the scoring rate increased with the arrival at the crease of former Gloucestershire County star Chris Taylor, who scored a rapid 26 before being caught by Charlie W. off Ollie C.’s bowling.
     Later batsmen scored modestly, apart from a late flurry of boundaries from Dylan Power and Will Maxwell.    Aided by 14 extras, the O.C.s completed their innings on 103 for 8wkts.    Wickets were shared fairly evenly amongst the School’s five bowlers.

The School’s innings started slowly, and was well down on the required run rate at 40 for 6 wkts after 10 overs.  However, the arrival of Charlie W. (31 not out, including six 4s ),   Jimmy H.(19), and a rapid 9 from Jake S. brought the School right back into contention.
     In a “grandstand” finish, with the School’s last pair batting, and with only four balls remaining, Charlie W., who won the player of the match award, secured victory with a well hit boundary, leaving the School on 107 for 9wkts.
   Mason and Joe Waite took five of the School’s wickets, clearly intent on proving that sporting prowess is not exclusive to pro. golfer brother, O.C. Mitch Waite, who is rapidly making a name for himself on the international Challenge Tour.

Headmaster Jeremy McCollough was an avid spectator, simultaneously capturing the match highlights on camera. Whether his contributions will be judged with approval by O.C. experts Doug Lodge and Martin Tayler, remains to be seen!

Unsung hero of the day would arguably be O.C. player Spencer Power, whose technical advice enabled Len Collacott, and John Hall to re-set the till card reader in the Pavilion, thus enabling the bar to function prolifically on a warm summer evening.     
       A few drinks, and an excellent tea, concluded a most enjoyable event.

Thanks are extended to the School for their hospitality, Len and John for re-opening the bar, and the O.C. players who gave their time to contribute to a very exciting cricket match.

Dave Tooze OC