ACCIES 2ND XI REPORT 2017

After a defeat in the opening game against the Edinburgh University staff, Accies 2nd XI bounced back to win 9 out of 12 matches and achieve promotion for the second consecutive season in the East League. All-rounder Syed Kabir scored 317 runs (ave. 45.29) with a top score of 104* and also took 19 wickets (ave. 12.21 and econ. 3.44). A fiery pace bowler, Syed took a wicket in the first over of his spell in six matches and fully deserved his call-up to the 1st XI. This created an opportunity for players to step up their game and, combined with brilliant teamwork, the 2nd XI were able to achieve another promotion.

Notable mentions include Ashok Kumar who finished with 12 wickets (ave. 12.25 and econ. 2.95), Murali Vuddula 16 wickets (ave. 13.00 and econ. 3.43), Hafzal Rehman 15 wickets (ave. 17.33 and econ. 4.42), Ronnie Alam 11 wickets (ave. 18.45 and econ. 3.38) and Mukesh Singh 10 wickets (ave. 18.50 and econ. 3.56). Opening batsman Ravi Kansara tied with Syed (317) for the most runs in the 2nd XI. Tamal Banerjee and Syed both hit sparkling centuries. Half-centuries were reached by Kunal Pawar, Ravi Kansara, Troy MacLachlan and the skipper Ankit Sehgal who scored 59 off 23 balls in the return fixture against the Edinburgh University staff to steer home the win by 79 runs. 

There were also some outstanding efforts in the field. Murali Vuddula and Troy MacLachlan took some unbelievable catches and stunning direct hit run-outs. Special mention to superman wicket-keeper David Black “Blacky” who chose to hang up his gloves at the end of the season after helping the 2nd XI achieve another promotion. Blacky joined Accies in 1975 and was a talisman in the team who regularly featured on the list of highest catchers. As a member, both on and off the field, Blacky was a gentleman and a great mentor to new players, which has played a significant role in the club’s success.

One of the proudest achievements for the 2nd XI this season was winning the division Fair Play Award. This is a testament to how Accies play cricket and respect the spirit of the game. As a result of this team effort, the awards night highlighted a lot of players for their valuable contributions. Accies 2nd XI will look forward to a new challenge in Division 3 and the prospect of a hat-trick of promotions!