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Sunday 12th September 2010  –  “Simon blasts maiden double century as Buckhorn romp home”

                        –  Buckhorn Weston CC v Boughton Gifford CC at home

The weather was looking wonderful for Buckhorn’s last match of the year, and the display that was produced matched the weather.  As the ladies enjoyed their lunch in the pavilion, play got under way with Buckhorn winning the toss and electing to bat.  With a few late squad alterations Buckhorn had to find a different opening pair to the one originally anticipated; however Simon B and Tom Blomfield made a good stab at the job.  Not having batted together much before, the partnership would be on show for the first time and both played well together; although Simon B hogged much of the strike.  The pair started well and played fairly aggressively, running hard and hitting plenty of boundaries.  Simon B got to another 50, with Tom still in single figures, and continued on his way to another century – his third of the season.  Tom was beginning to score boundaries, after dealing solely in 1s, 2s and 3s to start with; consequently he was able to bring up his maiden 50 for Buckhorn Weston CC.  After Tom went past 50 Simon B took over and demolished the bowling attack, hitting 4s and 6s for fun; he blazed past 150 (for the second time this season) and then went past his previous best of 154*.  Tom kept ticking his score over and kept giving Simon B the strike, hitting the numerous gaps that were open all over the field (as BGCC only had 8 players).  BGCC kept changing the bowling to try and get a breakthrough, but nothing could upset Simon and Tom’s rhythm as they put all the BGCC bowlers to the sword.  Buckhorn were set up for a huge total from their 30 overs, but Simon was getting very near his maiden double century; with 7 balls left in the game Simon B needed 21 to get there.  Off the last ball of the 29th over he hit a 4, leaving him with 17 required from the last over; but Tom was on strike.  Tom blocked the first ball, and then second ball got one to get Simon on strike; luckily for Simon.  17 from 4 balls was a big ask, but Simon was up to the task as he smashed two 6s, then a 2 and lastly a 4 from the final ball to get him over the 200 mark, for the first time by a player at Buckhorn Weston CC.  With the big push of the last few overs by Simon and Tom, the score ended on 290/0 – the biggest stand by any partnership in Buckhorn Weston CC’s history.   Simon’s innings of 201* had been the highlight, but Tom’s 66* was a vital score; as if wickets had fallen the innings of Buckhorn could have been totally altered.

The score of 290 left BGCC a daunting task to chase, but the fact that they had not taken any wickets allowed them to carry no momentum into their batting performance.  BGCC’s innings couldn’t have started worse, with Simon ‘Shoaib’ Dodd scattering the stumps first ball.  George Ovenden opened the other end and was successful with his first ball, also clean bowling his victim.  Daffy and George were a lethal opening bowling partnership, taking wickets (practically) every over and looking to finish the game in emphatic style.  Daffy sent the off stump cart-wheeling and bails flying 4 times in his opening spell, finishing with figures of 5 overs – 2 maidens – 6 runs – 4 wickets; only restricted to 4 by the fact that BGCC only had 8 players.  George Ovenden finished with similarly impressive figures of 4 overs – 3 maidens – 1 run – 3 wickets.  All the wickets taken were bowled and BGCC’s batting order was blown away, as they were bowled out by Daffy and George for 9 runs!

With Buckhorn scoring 290/0 and BGCC finishing 9 all out the winning margin for Buckhorn was by 281 runs, undoubtedly the biggest winning margin in the club’s history.  However, despite the extraordinary efforts of Simon B and Tom with the bat, and Daffy and George with the ball special mention must go to the rest of Buckhorn’s 7 strong team: Adam B, Jemma B (once again doing a superb job at fine leg/3rd man) and Jonno Brickell (playing a lead role at Square Leg Umpire for our batting innings).  Today’s game was a brilliant end to a very successful 2010 season.

        Simon B

 

Sunday 29th August 2010  –  “Buckhorn’s batting talents overpower Mere”  –  Buckhorn Weston CC v Mere CC away
With the League title already secured, Buckhorn sought to end the TCL (Three Counties League) season on a high.  Last year – at Mere – saw a run feast for most of the batsmen, as Buckhorn amassed their highest League score of the season; and this time would be no different, as these events were replicated again.  The high score was unexpected, as the pitch had gotten soggy because of the week’s rain; however the runs scored proved that Buckhorn’s batting line up has to be one of the strongest in the League.

Simon B and George Wayman got the innings off to a good start, with George reaching his 50 within 7 overs, having put the Mere bowlers to the sword and destroying their bowling figures.  After George fell for an extremely quick-fire 78 (including 11 fours and 2 sixes) George Ellwood (4) strolled to the wicket.  He looked uneasy against Mere’s spinner and was soon out, bowled by Whitmore at the other end after missing a straight one.  Simon B made a patient 50 and carried on his hard work, going in search of a bigger score.  The runs had slowed slightly after George Wayman departed, but upon Adam B’s arrival at the crease the run rate started to pick up, as Adam and Simon were able to work the ball around comfortably and started to score more freely off Cowley (who had Dave Bateman bowled for 9 prior to Adam B coming to the crease).  Mere continued to change the bowling, but to no avail; however the introduction of Becky Yeo brought the breakthrough, as Simon B lobbed one back to her, and was out caught and bowled for 85.  Tom Blomfield made a short cameo, hitting a towering 6, but was caught for 11 attempting to push the score on.  Adam was still looking good and blasted past 50.  As the innings begun to draw to a close Adam, with support from Rupert and Jonno (1), really let loose as he smashed the final over for 15, putting Buckhorn in an impressive position at 279/7 from their 40 overs.  After George’s (78) start and then Simon’s (85) work to keep the score ticking over, Buckhorn looked on for a decent score; but it was Adam’s dominance at the end of the innings, with an explosive 75, that put Buckhorn’s total well out of reach and got them maximum batting points.

Mere would need a few big partnerships if they were to chase down Buckhorn’s total.  Daffy and George Ovenden opened the bowling and got Buckhorn off to a great start, as Mere were 8/2 from 4 overs; after both George and Daffy clean bowled their opening victims. 

Daffy struggled up the hill, as everyone else did, so the bowling from that end was constantly changed.  George O kept going from the top end and finished his first 5 overs with 3 wickets.  Mere were 43/4 from 10 overs and struggling to chase the total.  Simon B had a few short spells and got figures of 2/18 from his overs and Tom Blomfield and Jonno Brickell bowled economical spells, as Buckhorn sought the breakthroughs they needed; however it was George Ellwood who got the important breakthrough, bowling Cowley who was batting slowly and showing the only resistance to Buckhorn’s attack – besides S Harkin, who made a quick 33.  George Ellwood bowled through his spell and finished with impressive figures of 2/28 from 8 overs; but when George Ovenden came back Buckhorn got another breakthrough, and he finished with figures of 4/27 from 7 overs.  Daffy came back on for the last over, with Buckhorn needing 1 wicket; however that never materialised and Mere ended their innings 9 down for 179.

Finishing with a big 100 run win was a bonus for the team, but the game became very dull towards the end of Mere’s innings, with both teams knowing the outcome and Mere not wanting to be all out.  However Buckhorn’s bowling was not up to its usual high standard, epitomised by the number of extras conceded – 38 – including 22 wides!  But George O’s performance with the ball and Jemma B’s fielding were bright lights in Buckhorn’s bowling performance, showing promise for the club’s future.  (Also, had a few decisions gone Buckhorn’s way, and not so many against, then maybe the result could have been different, and the game would have had a bit more life infused into it).

The season has been a good one for Buckhorn, with lots of runs scored and many wickets taken; thus resulting in a good list of results, that includes only 3 losses in all Sunday games.  Moreover there was an improved maturity amongst many of the younger players, proven by the number of higher scores made and bigger wicket-hauls taken.

          Simon B

 

Sunday 22nd August 2010:  –  “Charles burgles 5, whilst Simon protects average”  –  BWCC v Jamie Snowdon’s XI at home
After Malcolm had ‘agreed’ with Jamie that Buckhorn would bat first, Simon B and George Wayman went out to bat, aiming to get Buckhorn off to a good start; that they did, with the score reaching 30 from the first 3 overs.  George didn’t last as long as he’d hoped and was caught at deep square leg off a juicy full-toss, by a fielder in his tracksuit (thereby looking like a spectator).  Next man in was Courtland Taylor and he was looking good for his 11, playing some aesthetically pleasing shots; however was out bowled before he could really get going.  Adam B marched in at 4, after being next-man-in for the last 2 weeks running, and played well in partnership with brother, Simon; however Simon B reached 50 (including seven 4s and two 6s) and had to retire, thus protecting his average from the last 3 games: so Charles Esson came out to start his fine all-round display.  Adam and Charles batted solidly and look assured at the crease, although didn’t score quickly.  Adam only made 32, getting out to a leading edge and Charles retire soon after, after making 50 (including five 4s and two 6s); he began to accelerate towards the backend of his innings, getting to 50 with a well-timed 6.  Ian Martin (7*) and Jim Donnelly (12*) were not out at the end of the game.  But the little cameo of Daffy (11) gave the innings a boost with a towering 6, off the leading edge, and a powerful 4.  The runs flowed throughout the innings, with the outfield running well, but the main impetus came from Simon B’s start and Adam’s and Charles’s efforts.

The Buckhorn total of 200 would be an imposing target to chase in 35 overs,

 and the chase was not helped by the fact that Simon B had Jamie Snowdon’s team 2 down inside the first over, with only one run on the board.  Daffy bowled well from the Hooker End, but for little reward and his task was made increasingly difficult, as the rain began to fall; but Daffy battled on and finished with figures of 2/27 from 6 overs.  Simon B was quickly taken off, so finished with 2/5 from 3 overs.  From the Field end Adam mixed up the bowling, with Jim Donnelly getting figures of 2/27 in his spell, clean bowling both victims, emphasising how straight he bowled.  George Wayman swapped the gloves for bowling boots and rattled through a few overs, but couldn’t find a breakthrough; however the introduction of Charles Esson to the attack took the game away from Jamie Snowdon’s XI, as he swept through the lower order.  Charles bowled a very tight line and length, skidding the ball straight on and managing to bag himself the last 5 scalps of the innings.  His bowling effort was complemented by the bowling from the opposite end, with Adam, George and Jim restricting the scoring and maintaining pressure –with the keeper stood up.  The fielding was also extremely tidy, despite the poor weather, with special mention going to Jemma Beetham, Daniel Taylor and Ian Martin, who put the rest to shame with his eagerness to slide and dive all over the place.  These big efforts from Buckhorn were key to restricting Jamie Snowdon and his team to 103 all out, but Charles was man of the match with his 50-odd* and 5 wicket haul.

    Simon B

 

Wednesday 18th August 2010:  –  “Wayman blazes through Warminster attack”  –  BWCC v Warminster CC away
Buckhorn took a mixed team, consisting of a few Marnhull players, to Warminster and came away with victory.  Buckhorn batted first and started poorly, as Simon B was out in the 2nd over, but this allowed a partnership to form between George Wayman and Charles Esson.  George continued to blaze the ball to all parts, but fell for 66 after playing a brilliant knock.  Max was next in, but didn’t hang around long and Adam B played a similar short innings, although it did consist of a few boundaries.  The Marnhull boys were the next few players in and really helped Buckhorn stay on top, hitting the ball all over the park; meanwhile Charles was batting well at the other end.  Wickets continued to fall at regular intervals, but the score continued to tick over which allowed Buckhorn to finish with a more than respectable 177.

Buckhorn would need to bowl and field well to stop the home side chasing down their total, as the pitch was good for batting, the outfield was fast and there was a very short boundary to one side.

Daffy and Simon B bowled well at the start, but didn’t find wickets. The breakthroughs came with the introduction of Jonno Brickell, who finished with 3 wickets.  The bowling stayed pretty tight and the fielding matched it throughout.  The game begun to get tight towards the latter stages of the game, but some excellent bowling from Sean Rushton (Marnhull CC player) kept Buckhorn ahead of the rate.  The re-introduction of Jonno and Simon B – for the death – kept Buckhorn’s noses in front and Buckhorn ran out a comfortable 20-odd runs clear.

It was an exciting game throughout and was a really enjoyable experience for the whole team.  Hopefully there will be a re-match back at Buckhorn and the boys can make it 2 in 2 for Buckhorn against Warminster.

   Simon B

 

Sunday 15th August 2010  –  “Record breaking day that ends in a draw”  –  BWCC v Bill Owen’s XI at home
After a wet build up to Sunday’s friendly – against a team that was once one which were a real challenge to get a win against – Buckhorn put on another big total; however despite the best efforts of Buckhorn’s bowlers a fairly turgid draw was the result. As has been common place over the last few games, Adam won the toss and elected to bat, which would signal George Wayman’s and Simon B’s arrival at the crease. George started aggressively and got the game off to a flyer; regardless of the fact that Sunday’s game was a timed one and there was no limitation on overs. The wicket was causing the new ball to nip about, but George ignored this and plundered the bowling to the boundaries; but George was caught out by a bouncer and lobbed it back to the bowler, and was on his way back to the pavilion for 25. Max Austin-Little came in at 3 and played extremely well for his 57. Max was struggling to time the ball at the start of his innings, yet still managed to find the boundaries; imposing himself on the bowling from his first few balls. The best of the bowling that really put Max and Simon under any stress was the spinners, who spun the ball sharply; however Simon B and Max took the game to them when they used their feet and got down the pitch. Simon went past 50 and then pushed on, getting to his 100 very quickly. Max got to his 50 in good style and was hoping to press on to make his maiden ton for Buckhorn, but he got run out as he attempted a quick single. After Max’s demise Richard Telfer (playing in his last game for Buckhorn this season due to a move to London) came to the wicket, hoping to improve on his average and six-hitting ability. With the over rate being fairly slow, only 29 overs had been bowled with 2 hours elapsed since the start of play; therefore the skipper was contemplating the timing of his declaration, but needed to also take into account the fact that Simon B was nearing 150 runs and the club record of 152 (the record being set about 8 years ago by ‘JP’-says Rupert). Simon B made it to 150 with a 4 back down the ground and went past the record soon after. After he reached this landmark and set the new club record of 154*Adam called in Simon B and Richard, leaving Richard stranded on 11* and the final score at 269. After another ‘Premier League’ standard tea (as the President referred to it) Buckhorn had the challenge of getting 10 wickets to get an outright victory. The opening bowling was left to two youngsters – George Ovenden and Simon Dodd. George came up the hill and into the wind, allowing Daffy to run down the hill with a tailwind; which helped Daffy pick up his first wicket. One of the opening batsmen raced away, hitting the ball over the top and through the field; however after quickly racing his way into the 40s, was dismissed. After the first wicket fell Buckhorn looked like they were on top, in terms of restricting the run rate, but were always struggling to take wickets. Adam continued to change the bowling in search of wickets, bringing on Jonno, Simon B and even himself to get the breakthroughs required. After Rupert arrived he was brought into the attack and got a wicket, but as with the other bowlers toiled away and making little headway into the batting line up. Bill Owen’s XI never got near the required run rate, despite the best efforts of some of the players, as there probably wasn’t enough attacking intent throughout their innings; yet that is probably testament to the Buckhorn bowlers’ tight line and length. Towards the end of the game the Buckhorn players tried to push a bit harder for wickets, with Adam switching the bowling every few overs, to try and find some much needed breakthroughs. Buckhorn were not successful in achieving a win, but finished with a comfortable draw. The Bill Owen’s XI opening batsman held his bat for the whole innings and finished undefeated for 14*.

The match ended with an uneventful draw, however will be remembered (by Simon B at least) for the record that was set. Moreover, it was Richard Telfer’s last game of the season, but hopefully he (and his horrible, green, Irish helmet) will make a few guest appearances next season.

     Simon B

 

Sunday 8th August 2010 –  “Simon sets Personal Best”  –  BWCC v Sydenhurst Ramblers at home
This Sunday’s game was always set to be a good one, with both Buckhorn and the Sydenhurst Ramblers having decent sides.  Adam won the toss and put the Ramblers into the field, which meant that Simon B and Max would be trying to get Buckhorn off to a good start.  The pair started slowly, but soon got going as they began to punish all the loose bowling they were dished up, as the opening bowlers began to tire.  Max was looking in an aggressive mood, always looking to score, whilst Simon B was setting out his stall for a long innings.  This combination worked well and the score quickly mounted after the first 10 overs, however Max nicked one to slip, trying too hard to force the runs, for 36.  Next man in was George Ellwood, he got himself in and was looking in good form, pushing the ball into the gaps and being quick onto anything short.  Simon B brought up his 50 with a boundary and continued to push on in search of a bigger score.  After Simon B reached his milestone George got to his, having hit 4 fours and a towering 6 out of the park; George and Simon B shared a vital partnership which would see Buckhorn on their way to an imposing total.  Simon B begun to accelerate, looking to go after the spinners and combining dominant boundary hitting with elegant reverse sweeps and hard running; and – hence – he brought up his century with a powerful 6 over long off.  George Ellwood was caught for 54 soon after, bringing an end to a promising looking innings; but with the time quickly approaching 4pm, Adam was beginning to consider the timing of his declaration.  After George Ellwood was back in the hutch, new signing Dave Bateman arrived at the crease and kept the scoreboard ticking over with Simon B.  Both scored quick runs, but at 3:58pm (just before the time at which Adam had decided to declare) Simon B danced down the pitch and played a big air-shot, which left him stumped for 148 (5 short of the all-time record for a Buckhorn player at Buckhorn). After Simon B’s dismissal Adam declared, leaving Dave on 22* and the Buckhorn total at 261/3 from 49.2 overs.

After a massive tea, the Buckhorn boys set about picking up the 10 wickets they would need to win; because if they couldn’t get all 10 wickets the result would be a tie.  George Ovenden and George Ellwood opened the attack, but the Ramblers opener put both to the sword and got them off to a quick start.  The introduction of Johno Brickell to the attack saw the vital breakthrough, with the Ramblers opener out bowled for 72.  Tom Blomfield and Johno both bowled well through their long spells, bowling good line and length and making use of the movement that was in the pitch.  Buckhorn continued to toil away, but their fielding let them down and this allowed the Ramblers batsmen to pick up runs at a decent rate.  Fortunately Tom Blomfield (1/38 from 8 overs) and Johno (2/58 form 13 overs) were able to make breakthroughs, which meant that the introduction of new batsmen would slow the run rate for intervals.  Max was brought on to find some wickets and did well to ‘burgle’ 2 wickets, getting figures of 2/29 from 5 overs.  Max was well supported by Will Ellwood who bowled a lot of variations, mixing up his pace, line, length and turn; however he got no reward for his hard work.  The game was beginning to get rather tense as the Ramblers pushed to get a victory in the last 20 overs; however improved composure in the field and greater concentration from the bowlers meant that the Ramblers finished 13 runs short, with Johno getting a run out to finish the game.  The Ramblers finished on 248/7, thanks mostly to Boxall’s 72 and Darrock’s 45.

      Simon B

 

Sunday 25th July 2010  –  “Centurion George”  –  BWCC v Port Rejects at home
This Sunday saw the highest score at the ground this season, as Buckhorn’s batsmen went to the crease all guns blazing and destroyed the Port Rejects bowling line up. George Ellwood (playing his first game for a while) opened the innings with Richard Telfer and both started cautiously, scoring slowly. However Richard was bowled for 8, without any maximums (unusually), leaving Buckhorn 27/1 in the 7th over. Next to the crease was debutant Dave Bateman, and his partnership with George would be colossal; putting the game beyond any doubt. George blazed his way to 50, forcing Dave to run a lot of 2s and 3s, whilst farming the strike. George continued to be extremely aggressive, whilst Dave (also hitting the bowling all over the park) built what was to be a considerable innings. George batted in a ‘George Wayman-esque’ fashion and reached his maiden century in quick time. Dave was scoring freely – when George allowed him to get on strike – and continued after George was stumped for 132. Max joined Dave and continued to bludgeon  the ball everywhere, striking a 6 with his 2nd scoring shot, and made a scintillating 48; but his innings was cut short when he was bowled 2 short of a deserved milestone. The skipper (Adam B) was next man in and he and Dave saw Buckhorn to 302/3 in the 29th over. Once Buckhorn passed 300, Adam declared, leaving Dave on 84* and himself on 15*, and set Port Rejects a total of 303 to chase down from 35 overs.

Two under 15s started Buckhorn’s bowling, George Ovenden and Jack Davies picking up a wicket apiece. Jonno and Rupert were 1st and 2nd change and made light work of an under-strength Port Rejects batting line up. Rupert bagged himself 1 wicket, whilst Jonno got 3 scalps and new recruit Alex cleaned up the batsmen at the end, finishing with 3/9 off 2.3 overs.

          Simon B

 

Sunday 11th July 2010  – “Buckhorn in touching distance of TCL title” –  BWCC v Plush CC at home
Buckhorn knew that today’s game would be vital to their retaining of the Three Counties League (TCL) for 2010, as Plush are hot on their heels in 2nd place. The wicket looked firm, with a good covering of grass which would allow the ball to carry through with a bit of pace and bounce.

Simon B and George Wayman opened the innings and started in their usual fashion, with Simon B looking to get himself in whilst George was more concerned with how hard he could smash the ball. As everyone expected, George dominated the bowling from the start, plundering six 4s and a 6 in a quick-fire 36. Meanwhile Simon B was not getting much strike and only managing to work the ball into the gaps to get to 22. George got out swinging across the line and got bowled, and Simon B was out soon after, stumped off the right arm loopy bowling of Chubb. Max was in at 3, soon to be joined by Innes Henry; however Innes was taken off to hospital, as he injured his Achilles playing a back foot shot and then attempting a run. This caused the arrival of the skipper, who (combined with Max) played a solid role in Buckhorn’s final total. Max was the mainstay in the innings playing good shots all around the park, meanwhile Adam was getting himself in and accumulating runs in good fashion. Max got to 50 with a well timed 4, but was caught at point chasing a wide one. Tom was next in to join Adam, but (suffering from his antics of the day before) was soon back in the pavilion for 2. The rest of the batsmen came and went in short time, being cleaned up by Edmunds who finished with good figures of 5/18 off 8 overs. Rupert (5) and Daffy (4) scored a boundary apiece and Richard Telfer was caught on the boundary trying for one of his trademark 6s; but Adam was left trying to get Buckhorn above 200. Adam managed to get Buckhorn past 200, but was out for 53 and Buckhorn reached 219 – hoping it would be enough

Chasing 220 would not be easy on a slow outfield against the Buckhorn attack, despite the fact that the pitch played well, showing no variable bounce or the

 slowness we have come to expect. The chase started slowly for both sides, with Plush only managing 69 runs from the first 20 overs. Daffy’s opening spell (8 overs 0/22) set up a good platform for the rest of the bowlers, and George Ovenden (5 overs 0/17) bowled good line and length (as we have come to expect); stopping the Plush openers scoring freely. In the first 20 overs, Simon B came on for a short spurt, bowling three overs for 1 run and Max had a 2 over spell, attempting to break the opening partnership. The breakthrough came in the first over after drinks, as Johno got the big top edge of the opening bat and he was caught by George Wayman for 29. After drinks the Plush batsmen had to take some risks, which they begun to, but the re-introduction of Simon B for 1 over brought the dismissal of the other Plush opener (G Chubb) for 49, as he lobbed one to Max at cover. Tom Blomfield was introduced after drinks, but his first over was targeted (going for 13); however after that he bowled well, getting the Plush No 4 LBW and finishing his decent spell of 6 overs with 1/38.

As Plush continued to try and attack wickets tumbled, and with the bowling partnership of Rupert and Simon B, Buckhorn kept the runs down and put pressure on. Rupert bagged 3 wickets and pinned Plush’s No 3 batsman in the face; meanwhile Simon B was bowling well at the other end and combining full deliveries with the odd short ball, trying to use the bounce in the pitch. Rupert finished with excellent figures from his 6 overs of 3/24 and Simon B 8 overs 4/21. Buckhorn’s fielding has improved this year, and looked good on Sunday, epitomised by the fact that there were no dropped catches; moreover Richard Telfer put in a fine display, diving all around the boundary and in at backward point, plus there was a very good slide and throw (he says). Also, Rory Dodd was superb, doing a brilliant job of running from fine leg to fine leg and doing the team a real favour – again. Finally, from the whole team, we wish Innes a speedy recovery and look forward to seeing him back at the crease soon.

        Simon B

 

Sunday 4th July 2010 – “Duo of Georges storm through Shaftesbury”  –  BWCC v Shaftesbury Away
Buckhorn were hoping to continue their good Three Counties League (TCL) run by gaining another victory, to stretch their lead at the top of the table.

Buckhorn had a slightly different team to the one that walked over Compton House 2 weeks ago, with George Wayman and George Jones coming in for their first games of the season and Innes Henry being handed a Buckhorn Weston TCL debut. Buckhorn lost the toss to the home side and were put in to bowl. George Ovenden and Daffy started the bowling, with the older of the two finding plenty of movement through the air and off the pitch; meanwhile George Ovenden was toiling away at the other end, but soon got the breakthrough as Shaftesbury’s opener skied a drive to Simon B at mid-off. Daffy got a well deserved wicket, bowling the batsman behind his legs in ‘Shane Warne-esque’ fashion, and finished his spell of eight overs with 1/15. The end of George’s first 5 over spell brought the introduction of Simon B for a 4 over burst and he managed to get a breakthrough, getting one to turn through the batsman’s defences. After the third wicket the Shaftesbury batsmen at 4 and 5(Morgan and Williams) shared a long partnership that didn’t bring too many runs, but allowed Shaftesbury to face the whole 40 overs. Throughout this long partnership Johno bowled a tight spell, only going for 14 off 8 overs and Max Austin-Little only went for 5 runs from 4 overs; however Buckhorn were in search of wickets, so Max was replaced with Simon B and Rupert was brought on after Johno. Simon B (8 overs 2/17) managed to steal a 2nd wicket, whilst Rupert had no such luck, not replicating his form he produced at Shaftesbury earlier in the season, when he got a 6 wicket haul, however he did manage to slip in a few ‘Jaffas’ and a well disguised slower ball. Rupert bowled through to the finish of the innings and was joined by George Ovenden, who bowled his last three overs for very few runs. George bowled the last over of the Shaftesbury innings exceptionally well and got three wickets; which included a decent catch from skipper Adam B and the over only went for one run. George Ovenden finished with figures of 8 overs 4/24. Shaftesbury ended on a below par 103 for 7 from their 40 overs, this indicated how well the Buckhorn team had bowled and (for most of the innings) fielded, taking all their catches and putting in some athletic stops in the field – most notably Richard ‘Grass Stain’ Telfer, Rupert ‘Dirty Whites’ Dyke and debutant Innes Henry.

George Wayman stole the show in Buckhorn’s innings as they tried to nail home a big win. Simon B punched the first ball of the innings for 4 and then nerdled a single, but after that George really showed everyone what he can do. He took the bowling apart, smashing the ball to all parts of the ground and destroying Shaftesbury’s (slim) hopes of victory. He hit his first ball for the biggest 6 of the season, which made Richard Telfer’s sixes look pale in comparison; he then continued to pepper the boundary ropes as he blasted 3 sixes and 5 fours in a quickfire 46. George made his runs in just over 10 deliveries and was unfortunately adjudicated LBW sweeping Shaftesbury’s opening bowler; however the damage was done and he re-entered the pavilion with the score on 54/1 off 3.4 overs, leaving Simon B and Max a decent platform to see Buckhorn home. The two batsmen attempted to carry on aggressively, but couldn’t match George’s outstanding performance. Simon B played his shots, making 35*, and Max scored quickly, getting 25* in confident style; punishing all the loose bowling and attacking anything full. Max blazed a 4 over extra cover to finish the game in emphatic style, with 30.2 overs left in the game.
The team played well as a unit, but it was the individual performances of George Ovenden and George Wayman that ensured a comfortable victory and plenty of points. George Ovenden bowled a tight and attacking line and length, bowling very few hittable balls, showing how well he has improved from last season. George Wayman’s batting was exceptional and had we batted first he could have been on for a massive score, but his wicket-keeping was also very impressive, standing up to the stumps to all the bowlers and conceding very few extras. A one-sided game that can only boost the confidence of the side, with a big game against second placed Plush next weekend (Sunday 11th July).

      Simon B
 

 

Sunday 20th June  2010  –  “Buckhorn comfortably topple Compton House”  –  BWCC v CH at home
Buckhorn arrived to find a grassy wicket that had little in it to aid the bowlers and no real pace or bounce to help the batsmen. Upon winning the toss Compton elected to bowl, which was an initial sign that they would not be an impressive batting side. Max and Simon B opened the innings and started slowly but fairly steadily. The wicket was slow, but this was not to be an issue as the bowling was even slower out of hand as well; however Max was undone for 7, playing early, to a deceptive ball from one of the opening bowlers. Next to the crease was George Ellwood, who has proven to be a solid batsman this year, and he batted well, making a good start; especially against Compton’s second change bowler (Anderson). But George was bowled behind his legs for 24, as he jumped inside one that hit his leg stump. As with George, Charlie has had a good start to the year and he showed this again on Sunday, starting well and scoring a fluent 37; combining quick singles with power, scoring several boundaries all around the park. Both George and Charlie put on decent partnerships with Simon B throughout the afternoon. Simon B had been steadily accumulating at the other end, and punishing much of the loose bowling; bringing up his 50 with a well-timed 4 through the covers. When Charlie was out, bowled, Adam came to the crease and with only a few overs to go Buckhorn were looking to put on a big score; unfortunately Adam played across a straight ball from Compton’s (very) slow left armer, who also got the wickets of Richard Telfer (not managing a 6 today, but a 4 through the slips instead) and Tom Blomfield (10) added vital runs at the death. Simon B was out to a bad shot to Compton’s 5th change bowler with about 4 overs left. Will Ellwood and ‘Johnno’ Brickell (Sunday League debutant) pushed the scoring on, with Johnno bludgeoning a few well needed boundaries, whilst Will Ellwood nerdled the ball around and got the score to 198; but he was run out off the final ball. Buckhorn put on an imposing total, emphasising their strength with the bat, but were ably supported by the ‘Extras column’ which contributed 32 runs throughout Buckhorn’s innings. Debutant ‘Johnno’ opened the bowling with George Ovenden (playing for the first time after a few weeks away) and each picked up wickets in their opening spells (Johnno 2/32 off 8 overs and George 1/16 off 5 overs). However both struggled to control the swinging ball, conceding a few wides and George found it difficult bowling into the wind; however when both found their rhythm they bowled tight areas and prevented the Compton House batsmen from scoring. George finished a first-rate 5 over spell, and Tom Blomfield was introduced. Tom’s bowling has become vital to the team’s success this year (which was surprising as he was the club’s wicket keeper for most of last season), and this was proven again Sunday; as he continued on from last weekend’s good performance bowling exceptionally well. As Johnno finished his spell from the Field end, Simon B was introduced just before drinks, Simon didn’t bowl as well as usual, but did get a breakthrough; as a result of pressure from Tom’s tight bowling from the Tom Thumb farm end. Tom bowled a brilliant spell picking up the wicket of Kipling (39), who had been scoring freely until that point; Tom finished with figures of 2/22 from 8 overs. After drinks Simon was taken off and George Ellwood was introduced, forming a good bowling partnership with Tom; with Tom bowling accurate areas, whilst George Ellwood gave the ball air and teased the batsmen to play poor shots in the air – which they often did. George did get hit for a big ‘Richard Telfer-esque’ 6 over cow corner, but picked up a well deserved wicket soon after. Once Tom had finished his spell Adam introduced Charlie Leach as 4th change – highlighting Buckhorn’s strength throughout the team. Charlie bowled well, grunting very loudly, and mixing up his pace well; he picked up 2 wickets at the end of the innings, getting one caught behind with a smart catch from Will Ellwood and finishing the game, knocking back number 11’s off stump. The 9th wicket of the innings was caused by a smart run out from George Ovenden, launching a bullet throw from the boundary in over the top for Will to whip the bails off: thus highlighting the strength of Buckhorn’s all-round dominance throughout the game, resulting in a convincing 69 run victory.

    Simon B.

 

Sunday 13th June, 2010  –   “Buckhorn prove too strong as rain brings premature end” –  BWCC v Bruton at home
On what started out as a sunny afternoon in Buckhorn, the side managed another win.  Adam won the toss for only the second time this season and elected to bat, this would prove to be a good toss to win.

George Wayman and James Francis (playing in his first game of the year) started strongly, both finding the boundaries with ease, until George was bowled by a straight one.  This brought Richard ‘6 hitter’ Telfer to the crease.  Shortly after George’s departure James was caught at mid wicket trying to flick the ball over the ring; this brought Charlie leach into the game.  Richard was bowled shortly after Charlie’s entry, bringing the captain to the crease.  Adam (56) came to the wicket, and his partnership with Charlie (69) would cause Bruton’s downfall, with Adam and Charlie sharing a 115 run stand; Charlie played a crucial innings, scoring 69 before being caught on the boundary.  Thomas Blomfield (acting as vice captain) strolled out to the crease to join Adam, but he was later bowled when trying to go over the top.  George Ellwood batting at number 7 had a brief 2 ball innings before being run out.  ‘Incredi-boy’ (Will Ellwood) came to the crease after his brother to score a quick 13 before being dismissed lbw.  After Will’s dismissal new man George Ovenden was then bowled trying to smash the ball to Somerset.  This saw Chopper’s (Mark Chinnock) introduction for the last ball of the game, and in true buckhorn style he was bowled trying to heave the ball over cow corner.  Buckhorn finished on a respectable total of 189 for 9, and there was a strong belief that Buckhorn could defend the total.

George Ovenden opened the bowling from the Tom Thumb Farm (or Malcolm Hooker) end, bowling good areas which restricted Bruton from scoring.  His opening partner James Francis came from the Field end causing trouble from the start, and picking up 3 wickets from his 8 overs.  Thomas came on after the openers and bowled a tight line and length, not allowing the Bruton batsmen to get the ball away; bowling two maidens, one being a wicket maiden, earning him the nickname ‘superstar’.  Tom’s spell was vital in keeeping the Bruton score down, only conceding 15 runs from his 8 overs.  Charlie Leach was at the other end and bowled well, generating swing and pace, and providing plenty of opportunities for wickets.  George Ellwood’s overs began with two big sixes over cow – not how he would have liked to start, as they were good balls.  Once he found his rhythm and the field was adjusted, George resumed his normal bowling style and strangled the batsmen.  George Wayman was proving too good behind the stumps also, preventing the batsmen from strolling down the wicket and he picked up a match-turning stumping off a wide ball, to end the innings of the batsman on 98.  Wickets continued to fall at regular intervals, due to patient and accurate bowling and an exceptional fielding display.  Unfortunately, the heavens opened and the rain came lashing down; but Bruton carried on – determined to go for the win.  However, it was not to be, as the Buckhorn unit proved too strong.  Young Joe, making his senior debut for the Buckhorn 1st team, bowled 2 tight overs towards the end of the game, helping to secure a tense victory for Buckhorn.  It was a fantastic effort by all, culminating in a quality performance by a well-tuned Buckhorn Weston side.

    Simon B.

 

Sunday 6th June 2010: Buckhorn Weston Cricket Club v President’s XI (“Hampshire Maniacs”)
This year’s Presidents day saw a much closer game, than in previous years; but eventually saw the demise of Buckhorn at the hands of an extremely experienced side, packed with high quality players.  The quality of the cricket played was better than that of most weekends, making it an enjoyable afternoon of cricket for VPs and spectators.  After lunch both captains (Adam Beetham: Buckhorn Weston and Neil Trestrail: Hampshire Maniacs) went out for the toss; and after a series of poor luck with the toss Adam finally won it, consequently Buckhorn elected to bat first.  Opening the batting were Simon B and George Wayman.  Both batsmen made decent starts, finding runs fairly comfortably against two quality bowlers in James Bovill (ex-Hampshire CCC       bowler) and Pakistani professional Ali, bowling some tidy off-breaks.  With the score on 24 George middled one straight back to Ali, who caught Simon out of his ground, as he backed up, and Simon had to depart run out for 16; not the best possible start for Buckhorn.  However next man in was Buckhorn’s coach and local Dorset CCC player Charlie Esson, so Buckhorn weren’t looking in too much trouble.  After a decent partnership between the two, which saw George put on the bulk of the runs (including a few maximums) Charlie Esson was out caught and bowled to Ali, who made a decent one handed diving catch-reminiscent of a salmon.  Buckhorn’s skipper, Adam, was in at 4 and he played another steadying role with George, seeing Buckhorn through to drinks.  George went past 50 with ease before drinks and looked set to repeat his success of last year, by making another aggressive 100.  After drinks Adam and George carried on, but Adam was soon run out for 14.  This brought Richard Telfer to the crease at number 5 – slightly lower than was anticipated, because Elliot pinned him in the face in the nets just before Buckhorn started batting, so he was recovering from that, rather than batting at 3.  Richard was struggling with his swollen nose, but was bowled by Thurston for 1.  This wicket brought about our typical Buckhorn collapse, with Elliot falling second ball he faced and then George Wayman was out, caught at long off by no other than Charlie Esson-who had to field for the opposition as they only had 10 men.  The score was now 133/6, due to Thurston’s treble wicket maiden and the rest of the innings consisted of a lot of scampered singles and well run 2s; however despite the best efforts of Tom Blomfield (16), Charlie Leach (7), Miles (6) and Alex Gibbs (Golden Duck), Rupert was left not out (once again) after blazing a glorious 4 over cover and looking to push on.  Buckhorn finished 169 all out off of only 37.1 overs, but decent spells by Thurston (3/32 off 9 overs) and McMillan (4/15 off 7.1 overs) destroyed Buckhorn’s early hopes of reaching 200. Buckhorn’s first innings total of 169 was competitive, with good bowling, but was probably a few short, after an exciting 82 from George Wayman.  Charlie Leach and Simon B took the new ball for Buckhorn and Charlie bowled a fast and accurate opening spell, picking up the first two wickets of the game in his opening spell; however Simon was not as successful, bowling 10 overs straight through and picking up no wickets whilst conceding 39 runs.  Just before drinks this year’s overseas player – Elliot Cowell – was brought on to try and burgle a wicket.  This almost eventuated, with the Hampshire Maniacs opener, Ali, almost being bowled in the first over; but Elliot bowled well before drinks, causing mistakes from the Hampshire Maniacs batsmen.  Drinks came and went and Tom Blomfield was brought on to replace Simon B, whilst Elliot continued at the other end.  Elliot bowled a good spell, but finished unrewarded and was taken off, for Rupert to be introduced.  This change brought immediate success, with Rupert snaring Ali LBW for 61; a crucial wicket that got Buckhorn back into the game.  Buckhorn’s fielding had been superb, epitomised by the grass stain-covered whites of all the players at the close of play.  Rupert continued, bowling exceptionally, and Tom persevered into a strong wind at the other end; but Buckhorn were in need of wickets and Charlie Esson was brought on to try something different, that wouldn’t be expected.  As Rupert continued form the top end, Charlie picked up his first wicket of the season, getting O’Kelly LBW; and this would see Will Ellwood (traitor) arrive at the crease to face his regular teammates.  After dispatching Charlie nonchalantly to the boundary, he continued to work the ball around with Hampshire Maniacs captain Neil Trestrail to see his side home.  The Hampshire Maniacs reached Buckhorn’s first innings total with just under two overs spare, as Neil led his side home with a well played half century. 

Buckhorn valiantly fought right until the end of the game, however were going to struggle to defend their under par total against an experienced side on a wicket that played well and bounced true.  The team can take a lot from the game, with good performances from Charlie Leach, George Wayman, Elliot, Rupert, Tom and (for the opposition) Will Ellwood.

            Simon B

 

 

Sunday 30th May 2010  –  Captain’s innings guides Buckhorn to victory  –  BWCC -v- Thornford CC at home

Buckhorn was strengthened this week with the addition of Jemma Beetham’s and Rory Dodd’s fielding prowess. Adam B was back into the side this week to captain, but lost the toss; continuing his run of lost tosses. Buckhorn was put into the field, which ended up working in their favour. Simon B and Daffy opened the bowling, starting well having the visitors 38 for 3 off 10 overs. Max Austin-Little and Rupert came on first and second change, both keeping the scoring rate in check and picking up wickets; Rupert getting two in his first two overs. Max bowled his spell through and finished with good figures of 1 for 27 off 8 overs; whilst Rupert finished with 3 for 32 off his 8. The tight bowling in the middle overs meant that Buckhorn could keep the pressure on and restrict the visitors getting away. After Max and Rupert’s spells, the skipper introduced the overseas (Elliot Cowell) and himself. This proved to be a good change, as both picked up wickets, stopping Thornford accelerating at the end of the innings. To finish the innings Daffy came back on with Simon B, who picked up the final wicket in the last over; consequently Daffy finished with figures of 1 for 34 off 7 overs and Simon B got 3 for 11 of his overs. Buckhorn bowled well, but the bowlers were ably supported in the field with some good efforts from debutants Ian Martin and Ben Cowell and a superb one handed catch from Rupert.

134 was not a massive total to chase, but could be difficult on a wicket that had provided the seamers some help in the first innings. The innings was opened up by Simon B and Max, and started well as both managed to get runs with relative ease; however with the score on 46, the bowling change led to Max playing down the wrong line and being bowled for 20. Soon after Max’s dismissal Simon B played too early and pulled a half-tracker straight to square leg, out for 28 and Buckhorn stuttering at 53 for 2. Max and Simon B’s dismissals brought Elliot and Adam B to the crease. These two would steady the ship for a few overs, but Elliot got caught at mid on for 8, trying to go over the top; which saw Alex Gibbs come to the middle, for the first time in a Sunday game this season. Alex and Adam put together a solid partnership of 51 which won the game for Buckhorn; but Alex got out with the score on 126, scoring 19 (which included a powerful ‘Richard Telfer-esque’ 6). Next man in was Rupert, but he tried to win the game quickly and got caught for 1; meanwhile Adam B was steadily accumulating runs, keeping the scoreboard ticking over and keeping his cool-leading Buckhorn to victory. The new batsman to the crease was Daffy, who managed to just get an inside edge onto the first ball of the last over, to get Buckhorn over the line. Adam finished on 49 not out, but it was a solid innings that Buckhorn required to see them get maximum points.

    Simon B

Sunday 23rd May 2010  –  Buckhorn victorious  –  BWCC -v- Hazelbury Bryan CC (a)

Sunday was probably the hottest day of cricket we will see this summer, therefore was not a day to be in the field for 40 overs. With Adam missing the game due to upcoming exams, Simon captained the side; his first success came with winning the toss and electing to bat first, on a dry and hard pitch that would have bounce and carry. Robyn Leach and Simon B opened the batting, facing (probably) the fastest bowler in the Three Counties League (A Fitzgerald), who finished with figures of 8 overs, 1 wicket for 8 runs. Robyn Leach fell first, after being peppered by Fitzgerald with some short bowling, bowled; which brought Richard Telfer to the wicket. After a good six last week, Richard fancied more. He had a good innings, finishing with only 22 runs, but he played some good shots which only went for one; however he got his six, straight back over the bowler’s head (over a slightly bigger boundary than last week) for a flat six into the sightscreen. Richard was yorked and this brought Charlie Leach to the crease, which would see the start of a decent partnership between him and Simon B. Charlie got himself in and joined Simon in attacking the loose deliveries and working the ball around into gaps, which kept the scoreboard flowing at a decent rate. Simon got to his fifty not long after the first drinks break. As Simon pressed on, Charlie continued to attack, with both attacking the spinners aggressively and punishing any slack bowling. Charlie reached his fifty, but the next ball he played across the line to a straight ball and got bowled. This brought Tom Blomfield in and he continued on his good batting form, however HBCC fielded well and many of his shots were restricted to ones and twos. Simon B fell not long after Charlie, holing out to long on for 95. Will Ellwood came in for brief innings, but a mix up with Tom, left Tom run out; consequently George Ovenden faced the last ball of the innings. Buckhorn finished with a good total of 219/6 from their 40 overs.

Buckhorn’s bowling started well, with George Ovenden hitting some good areas and both keeping the scoring rate down and the pressure on. However at the other end Tom’s attacking lines were met with some blunt force, as Tom got put away for a few boundaries an over. George continued to bowl well and finished his opening spell with 1 wicket; replacing Tom was Simon B and replacing George was Charlie. Charlie found the extra bounce the wicket had to offer and beat the bat several times, and was rewarded with 3 wickets, finishing off a fine all-round display for Charlie. Simon managed to find some pace and bounce in the wicket, whilst only bowling off a few paces. Simon finished with 2 wickets. After Charlie’s spell Tim Ovenden had a short spell, getting himself 2 wickets; due to a good catch at long on by Courtland Taylor, catching it as it flew to the boundary and Robyn snaffled one at cover. Tom came back on after Simon was bowled out and bowled a lot better, picking up his first wicket. Three Counties League debutant Harvey Chinnock (aka Chopper Jr) bowled-what turned out to be-the last over, picking up his first wicket, clean bowling the batsman middle stump.

Buckhorn produced a brilliant all round display, bouncing back well from the first game defeat against Horningsham. To top it all off Buckhorn got maximum points from the game, putting them in good stead for the rest of the season.

Simon B

Sun May 16th 2010  –  Buckhorn lose narrowly to Steeple Langford   –   BW v SL away

The weather was the main opposition for this weekend’s game, however a match did take place and ended up being pretty close.  Adam lost the toss and Steeple Langford (SLCC) batted first.  Charlie Leach and Josh Brown opened the bowling against a decent opening batsmen, who sought to despatch all Buckhorn’s bowling to all parts.  Charlie struggled on the pitch, having to overcome a high ridge in his run up just before the crease; but at the other end (which was flat) Josh fared much better, starting with a maiden.  The rain caused a brief halt to play during the first few overs, making bowling difficult; due to a wet ball and a slippery wicket, which none of the bowlers really enjoyed.  Josh bowled well, but his first spell finished with Haggaty (who finished on 47) smashing him over the – very – short boundary for a big 6 (a feat Richard sought to replicate later in Buckhorn’s innings).  Charlie picked up the first wicket caught and bowled in his first spell, but suffered at the hands of Haggaty and SLCC’s No 3, who was also hitting the ball well.  First and second change were Simon B and young George Ovenden, who bowled with contrasting success.  George bowled good line and length, picking up 3 wickets and almost having a hat-trick; however Simon B struggled to bowl on the wet wicket (but bowled badly regardless) and was put to the sword a bit, with several dropped catches in between: but he got the vital wicket of Haggaty caught and bowled for 47.  After seeing the trouble the bowlers had been having Adam felt it necessary to hide Simon behind the stumps and get Tom Blomfield on to bowl, which worked; moreover debutant Ant Woolway was subbed off the field through injury for son Harry Woolway (U13) – who bowled the last over of the game.  Tom bowled straight and full, finishing with figures of 3 overs, 1 wicket for 3 runs conceded; whilst another debutant (Steve Edgar) bowled a good one-over spell at the end of SLCC’s innings.  SLCC finished with a more than competitive 146, mostly due to the 90-run second wicket partnership between Haggaty and the SLCC No 3.

 Buckhorn opened with a new pairing of little and large – George Ovenden and Simon B.  The rain had dampened the outfield considerably, but the brief moments of summer sun had dried the wicket a bit.  The innings started with a few boundaries, but rain brought a stoppage after 6 overs with no damage done.  After the rain George Ovenden edged behind off one that bounced a bit and then Simon B gave his wicket away on 28 (which would remain the top score for Buckhorn).  Batsmen 3 and 4 (Richard Telfer and Charlie) hung around for a bit, but Richard was first to go, bowled, but he did hit his all important 6 over the shortest boundary we’ll probably play on.  This brought skipper Adam in, who probably tried to play on shot too many.  Charlie fell next for 17 and then Adam for 11.  Things didn’t look great for Buckhorn.  The next two batsmen at the crease after Charlie and Adam had fallen were Tom at 6 and Steve Edgar at 7.  Tom looked good, carrying his form in the field over from last week to his batting this week; however with the persistent rain batting and fielding was not easy.  Steve fell next, skying a no ball and then getting run out trying to run a single from it.  The next batsman was the hobbling Ant Woolway, who got caught at long on trying to send one into the houses, but finding the best fielder in the SLCC ranks.  Then came the turn of Courtland Taylor, but (just like Ant) fell for 1.  Josh Brown was next in and we hoped he could produce a miracle in the dying overs, as he did against Kilmington; however that form with the bat has eluded him since then and he was bowled playing across the line a duck.  No 11 was Robyn Leach, father of Charlie, who had been followed by the ball in the field earlier.  He got off the mark, but there was no time left for Buckhorn to get the runs and finished on 137 for 9, a fairly close finish to a game that was lengthened by SLCC’s slow play.

Simon B

Thurs May 13th 2010  –  Under 15’s record dramatic win in first round of County Cup  – U15’s v Shillingstone at home

Having bowled Shillingstone out for 84, our Under 15’s won by 1 run having lost 9 wickets.  Jack Davies was undefeated on 46 and was the hero of the hour.  His partner Tom Mitchell managed to scramble the final run for victory.  The U 15’s have now drawn Stalbridge in the second round of the cup which is to place on Thursday 20th May at Stalbridge.

    Malcolm H

Sun May 9th, 2010 –  “Batsmen fail Buckhorn”   –   BW v Horningsham at home

 The first Three Counties League game of the season was a flop for Buckhorn.  Overhead conditions were grey and the wicket was green and slow.  Buckhorn started as they had practically every game last season, by batting first; however last season’s success batting first wasn’t replicated today.  Owain and Adam B opened the batting and things started very slowly, with some accurate bowling from the Horningsham opening bowlers combined with the low-bouncing wicket made scoring difficult.  Adam was first to fall after being bowled, which saw the introduction of Richard Telfer; shortly following, Owain fell (bowled) and Simon B was next in.  Meanwhile the scoring rate was almost static.  Richard was next to fall and George Ellwood came out to bat, but after scoring the game’s first boundary he was bowled by Horningsham’s opening bowler, who bowled his spell right through going for very few runs, bowling (probably) the match-winning spell.  Will Ellwood was in next, but struggled and chipped the ball into the hands of a fielder soon after drinks.  Almost immediately after Simon B was out chasing a wide one, toe-ending the ball in the air straight to a fielder.  Rupert saw out the rest of the Buckhorn innings not out, whilst batsmen at the other end struggled and 9-man Buckhorn were all out for 42.  The lowest score seen at the ground for a long time. 

After a fairly dismal batting performance Buckhorn were excellent in the field.  Having only 9 men left the team 2 fielders short, making defending a poor total even harder; however Simon B and Josh opened the bowling with some attacking lines, which kept the scoring rate to a minimum.  Simon picked up the first wicket and the athletic Buckhorn fielding prevented the Horningsham batsmen from making light work of the low total.  Josh bowled an exceptional spell, but wasn’t rewarded with a wicket.  George Ellwood bowled well, gathering a good caught and bowled and causing a run out.  Simon B had picked up a few wickets by the end of the game and produced a sharp run out as well, from George Ellwood’s bowling.  However, the moment of the game came from Tom Blomfield (aka Paul Collingwood), who attacked the ball from square leg and threw down the stumps at the bowler’s end, running out the batsman by a yard or two as he tried to snatch a quick single.  Horningsham reached Buckhorn’s total 6 wickets down, but didn’t get there with ease, due to an outstanding effort from Buckhorn’s fielding and bowling unit.

    Simon B

Sun April 25th, 2010 –  “Rain, Rain and More Rain”   –   BW v Stalbridge at home

Sunday was nowhere near as nice a day as the Sunday before. Once again Adam lost the toss and Buckhorn were put in to bat. Buckhorn were hoping to get off to a good start, with ambitions of scoring about 150 or so; which would be a good total for the wicket. George Ellwood and Simon B opened the batting and things started well, with a few boundaries scored. But the good start didn’t last, as Simon fell early bowled by the Stalbridge opening bowler. Richard Telfer was next in, but fell for a duck; soon after George Wayman fell to a ball that seemed to do a bit off the pitch (as most of the balls had). This brought Captain Adam to the crease to partner George Ellwood, who fell for a hard-earned 26. Buckhorn had had a collapse and needed a partnership of time, which is what Tom Blomfield and Adam provided; however just after drinks Adam was given out LBW. Will Ellwood (younger brother of George) came to the wicket and scored quickly. The dark clouds then closed in and the rain fell, bringing a brief delay to the game for rain. After the rain delay Will got caught out playing a defensive shot, as the ball spun back onto the stumps to bring a premature end to a promising innings. Next in was Josh Brown and Buckhorn were in need of more of his heroics, but on a pitch proving difficult to bat on batting was slow and Josh struggled to get the ball away. Josh was next out and the next few batsmen following in struggled, but some quick runs from the lower order got Buckhorn up to 121.

The rain during the Buckhorn innings had changed the conditions, meaning that the ball skidded on more and there was less seam movement off the pitch. Simon B and George Ellwood opened the bowling and Stalbridge didn’t get away from Buckhorn at all, with an athletic and confident fielding performance preventing Stalbridge cashing in on some loose bowling. Simon got the breakthrough, getting one of the Stalbridge openers Caught and Bowled. Soon after the first wicket fell the rain started to fall again, but this time it didn’t stop and the game ended as a draw.

There were some promising displays and Buckhorn were by no means rolled over by Stalbridge. Hopefully, we can retain the fixture and next year show them what Buckhorn can really do.

        Simon B

Sun April 18th, 2010 – “Buckhorn snatch victory from the jaws of defeat!”  –  BW v Kilmington at home

For the first time in weeks the weather was fine and the Buckhorn Weston pitch was dry. Adam lost the toss and Buckhorn were put in the field for 35 hot overs. Things started well, with Simo Dodd (Daffy) opening up and looking good, moving the ball off the pitch; however Josh Brown-in his first game for 2 seasons-got Buckhorn the early breakthrough, bowling a tight line and length and bowling one of the Kilmington openers. After a good start by the opening bowlers, Kav (playing, what could be, his only game of the season in Buckhorn colours) and George Jones were introduced. Wickets continued to fall at regular intervals, with George Jones picking up two in the middle overs, whilst Kav built pressure with some consistent bowling. Debutant Hector bowled tidily after drinks and Max Austin-Little provided spin, both bowling well on a variable pitch. Max and Simon B bowled at the death, restricting Kilmington to a challenging 128.

The batting did not start well, with Captain Adam falling early. This brought another debutant-Richard Telfer-to the crease to partner Max. These two built a solid partnership, looking likely to see the game through; however Max fell, and Simon B was next man in. But, following the same fate as his brother Adam, Simon played too early and was back in the pavilion caught and bowled. Number 5 George Jones fell in similar fashion, leading to the arrival of Joe Mickelwright (playing possibly his only game of the season) at the crease. Soon after George’s downfall, Richard was out too for a well played 31; then Kav (batting surprisingly high up the order); and then Hector. This collapse seemed fatal for Buckhorn, as the next batsman, Josh, had not batted for 2 years (except for a brief net on the Thursday before). However some dominant strokeplay by Joe and a mixture of solid defence and powerful belligerence (to the loose deliveries) by Josh, got Buckhorn extremely close to the total with over 40 balls to spare. Buckhorn needed 2 to win when Joe skied a ball high into the air, only to be dropped and a single scampered; thus tying the game. The next ball was a leg stump full toss, which Josh nonchalantly smashed over square leg for six. A brilliant finish to an exciting and match-winning partnership between Joe and Josh.