Mike takes Moet Moment

Outstanding diving catch & classy 74 runs

It was a glorious, sunny weekend, and the freshly cut wicket at Newfield looked like a batsman’s paradise. Winning the toss, captain Andrew Cosh elected to bat without hesitation. A. Cosh and Mike Evans opened the batting to face Edinburgh South’s bowling attack. After a well-timed cover drive, A. Cosh was caught behind early by M. J. G Flynn off K. McGill.

M. Evans looked in top form, elegantly driving the ball around the ground and, together with O. Altaf, built a substantial partnership. O. Altaf’s stunning lofted cut for four took him to 32 before he was trapped in front, lbw. Up stepped A. Francis to join Mike, and continued Accies high scoring run rate.

Mike Evans celebrated a brilliant 50, as the team reached 112 for 2 after 23 overs. The solid foundation continued after drinks up to the 31st over, Accies were on 155 for 2, and in prime position to reach 250 plus with plenty of batting to come. A. Francis was bowled for an excellent 45 and M. Evans was also bowled for a top score of 74.

Accies then had a middle order collapse, going from 155 for 2, to 159 for 6. Huge credit to Edinburgh South for their tight bowling – picking up a couple of lbw decisions and bowled wickets – although, with a talented middle order, Accies need to look to capitalise on strong positions.

A. Amir scored a fantastic 35 not out, and together with good running from Sammy, Accies finished on a defendable total of 221.

After tea, Edinburgh South responded rapidly with C. S. Wazir holding up the batting order, scoring 89 runs from almost half the number of deliveries, before being caught on the boundary by Y. Khanchi off M. Gani.

A. Amir and O. Saigal bowled exceptionally well taking 3 and 2 wickets respectively. Mike Evans took two catches including a spectacular diving catch at mid-off of P. R. Reddish on 46, and Edinburgh South were 181 for 7. A couple of catching and run out opportunities may have closed out the match, however Edinburgh South reached Accies total in 46 overs.

Accies bowled well, and set a solid foundation, although plenty to improve on. Accies have a talented squad, and with a couple of players to re-join the core team, Accies are still to reach their potential.

AC