This was a game played against the odds.. and whilst the rain did not really feature, the wind resembled “Force 9 from Navarone” (A. Hausler).
Having lost the toss, Ivanhoe fielders were relieved, with it so cold and windy, to find that the opposition had put us in to bat, and what a mistake that seemed to be as the openers took off and maintained a 5 an over run rate till Malcolm Parnell fell for an excellent 38, which contained some memorable drives to complement the trademark cuts and pulls. For once regular opener Denis Evans had been outscored, but he immediately took over the baton and hit an impressive six as he headed towards his 1st 50 of the season. Unfortunately the drinks interval came and he fell just afterwards, for 49, with the score 113 -2. With such a solid and quick start it seemed that Ivanhoe should be aiming for 200+, but Dancer and Collins found the going tough for a few overs and the score stagnated . The they began to increase the scoring till Collins (21) edged behind with the score 149-3. This started a collapse with “Lionel” Ritchie Parnell receiving a challenging first ball and the opportunity to buy a Primary Club tie. Skipper Dancer (32) soon followed and the only resistance was provided by Aussie Hausler, who cracked some superb blows for 16. The team were all out for 177 after 43.3 overs, leaving a sense of underachievement , not least from Coach “Agatha” Christie who felt the batting order had left him too much to do in too little time.. yet again!
After tea “Lionel” featured in another 1st ball incident – this time bowling one of his worst ever balls – but at least it was straight , and the batsman could not believe that he had been bowled and could also apply for that Primary club tie. With Andy Christie removing the other opener caught and bowled Corithinas were soon under pressure. Christie and Parnell R bowled well but were withdrawn as an attacking partnership began to develop. We were treated to one of this duo applauding every run scoring shot he made (he obviously felt no one else would) . He also raised Parnell ire with his constant chirping and words were definitely exchanged!
As this partnership began to cause concern we were treated to outstanding spells by Evans and Woodcock – his best spell in 11 months, obviously trying to get in top form for the arrival of the selector (sorry girlfriend). they were aided by catches from Christie and Evans and 2 candidates for catches of the season from Abrahamson and Parnell M. Corinthians subsided quite quickly and were all out for 104, with c 15 overs remaining.. when it really would have been after dark.
And so our second victory of the season.. which coincided with our second time batting first.. and a timed game, which contrary to popular belief did not meander to a draw!
Bob the Batsman/Treasurer – delete as appropriate!