News of the England first innings declaration was announced the attention turned to “NBS, The Close” ahead of the annual clash between the Old Guard of Rugby School and the Bilton Grange Faders. This being a marquee fixture in the BG Faders calendar the conditions were perfect and the excitement was palpable.

As the key toss was won by the BG Faders, they took to the field and put the Old Guard in to bat. The early fielding decision was rewarded as the opener, Mr Wood, was removed lbw for 4 by the pace bowling of Dylan Grant. The Old Guard skipper, who was umpiring, remarked “It couldn’t have been more plum than that really”. The early optimism was short lived however, as the Old Guard set about scoring freely with many score retirements from the middle order. Chances in the field for the BG Faders came and went with nicks were dropped and catching chances from the bowling of Mr Philps, Mr Barras and Mr Thompson going to ground. The only other wicket taken was from the skipper, Mr Latham, removing a new batter first ball late on in the game. The Old Guard amassing a total of 169 from their 20 overs. A tough test for the BG Faders!

The BG Faders set about the run chase and the opening pair of Dhruv Murari and Alfie Philps made good progress. Wickets started to fall in the 6th over as Mr Murari was run out for 12 and Mr Philps bowled for 24 in the 8th over. The ship was steadied by Mr Steele and Mr Tarrant who put on solid middle order partnership. Following the dismissal of Mr Steele on 14, Mr Grant came to the crease and in typical Zimbabwean “Bazball” style smashed a quick fire 28 from 9 balls to give the BG Faders some hope. Alas the inevitable result loomed and the BG Faders came up short by 23 runs. A valiant effort which capped a glorious evening of cricket!

Chris Latham