New stand in Second XI skipper Owen Thomas proved it was possible to still have a good day in charge despite suffering a second ball duck and losing the game. He showed that his captaincy reign will be marked by vibrant, non-formulaic thinking and along with the home skipper ensured that everyone's long wait for cricket was well satiated.
Sudbrook efficiently and simply managed all the new Covid restrictions, won the toss and inserted Rogerstone. The visitors reached 141 for 11 in their 40 overs, with debutant Ellis Richards allowed to bat out the last couple of overs alone to score a very impressive 9 not out. Earlier, septuagenarian Alan Hughes had top scored with 33.
The home side passed the target with 10 overs to spare for the loss of 3 wickets, but batted on through the full allocation to end on 196 for 6. Rogerstone bowled tidily enough with Jobi Pappachan claiming 4 for 14 including 3 late wickets. The innings will best be remembered though for the impressive bowling from the kids and for one horrific nearly moment in the field. Jasmine opened the bowling showing increased pace and control of line, Ellis moved the ball away from the bat, Rosie controlled her line and length well and forced dad into taking a tumbling catch. Finally, the leg spinning Abdullah coped manfully with a wet ball. All very pleasing to see. The moment of trauma nearly came when a wicked bounce just off the square nearly decapitated the skipper. It was a genuinely frightening moment...and could so nearly have ruined what was a successful return for recreational cricket.
The game had kids, old men providing support, positive can do attitudes, four girls and a high level of sportsmanship. At this level, you can't ask for more.