The conditions were warm and sunny and the ground and pitch excellent for the first game of the season.

BA won the toss and batted.

Despite some very good bowling from Imran (5 overs for 18 runs) and Tim (5 overs for 21runs and 1 wicket) the first 3 batsmen looked comfortable on a lovely batting strip and cruised to 194 by the time the third wicket was taken. Butt, who was dropped early on, went on to make 61 before being caught in Tim Blatt’s armpit off the bowling of Evan, and Ambrose had scored 67 when he was caught in the deep by James off the bowling of Adeel making his debut.

The run rate then slowed significantly and more wickets fell, but Wahab’s late slog got BA up to an impressive 252-7 at the end of their 40 overs. This figure included at least 15 runs given away in fielding errors which must be stopped if we are to compete in the league this season.

In reply Karl and James batted in their aggressive styles and racked up 64 in 9 overs. Karl was then caught for 38 cutting to gully and the following over James was bowled to a reckless shot for 22. New boy, Sathees, was looking good until another reckless shot ended his innings on 13. This brought together Jonno and Imran who put on a 4th wicket partnership of 98. At 195-3 off 26 overs St Lukes were now favourites to win. Then the wickets of Jonno (64) and Imran (55) fell in quick succession followed by a batting slump to 207-9.

A brave last wicket stand of 23 between Robin and Tim brought St Lukes within touching distance of the BA total but it wasn’t to be and St Lukes were all out 230, just 22 runs short with a few overs remaining.

An enjoyable game and a good run out for the first match.

Man of the Match – Jonno with his 64 plus 2 wickets.