Pattaya C.C. recorded a much needed win over the Southerners last Sunday that kept their play-off qualification on track.
Winning the toss at the magnificent Thai Polo Ground, Pattaya elected to bat first under distinctly grey skies and Dan Nicholson (0) gloved an early short delivery to be caught behind. Venky started steadily and supported by John Speirs (15) the innings was gradually rebuilt.
Venky departed immediately after recording his first league fifty and Colin Clark (28), PCC captain Simon Philbrook (25) and Paul Hack (20) ensured the run momentum was maintained throughout the 25 overs. Finally, on a slow outfield, PCC posted a challenging 156/6.
In reply the Southerners were restricted from the start by some excellent new ball bowling from Salman (1/9) and Thomas Manoj (0/8). Behind the required run rate the pressure began to build and Hamza (2/7) continued the onslaught, ably assisted by David Scott (0/24) playing his last game before departing back to England for a well earned break.
John Speirs mercurial off-spin was too hot for the lower middle order and his spell included a memorable hat-trick, the hat-trick ball being a full toss outside off stump that the batsman somehow managed to hit upwards and was eagerly pouched by Paul Hack at silly mid off. Only the experienced Vaughan McClear managed any sort of resistance with a well crafted 37 before he became John Speirs fourth wicket, the latter finishing with figures of 4/23.
PCC’s comfortable 64 run victory moved them into third spot in the league with two fixtures remaining.
Pattaya Cricket Club would like to thank the support of the Pattaya Sports Club and encourage anyone interested in playing, spectating or officiating to contact the club via its website www.pattayacricketclub.com or Facebook page.
