By Sandeep George
Another lucky escape from weather interruption, even though forecast was grim. Bampton were put to bat on a tricky and damp wicket. The decision was soon proved to be correct as Govind was given the ball along with Rakesh. It was deemed to be the best bowling effort of the season so far. Rakesh with his variations supported Govind well, the latter with his deadly swing and precision accuracy bundled out.
Bampton just short of 50 on the board. Bampton batsmen had no answer to Govind’s masterclass marathon bowling. All in all, it was one man show – Govind with 7 wickets for 17 runs.
With lowest score to chase, Risinghurst captain had no hesitation in experimenting with the batting line up. Gaurav and Romeo were sent to open. Romeo in his sublime touch started where he left in the last game, couple of cracking boundaries gave Risinghurst the start needed but Romeo could not carry on as he got out while trying to keep the run rate high. Gaurav on the other hand kept his cool and played an anchor’s role. Anand was sent at number 3, due to his previous performance of patience and grit at the top order. After playing some class strokes, he too got out.Risinghurst lost third wicket in the form of Mansoor, which brought in Lokeshwar, who along with Gaurav steadied the ship and made sure Bampton were deprived of any further points.
This was the shortest game but biggest professional display of bowling and fielding by Risinghurst.