Pattaya Cricket Club, affiliated with Pattaya Sports Club, hosted the British Club of Bangkok on Sunday, November 30 at the majestic Thai Polo Ground in a 25 over pre-season friendly.
Both teams wore black armbands as a mark of respect and in memory of the recent tragic passing of Aussie cricketer Phil Hughes.
Hot and humid conditions prevailed as the captains, Simon Philbrook and Dale Lamb, tossed the coin. BC called correctly and elected to bat first. Thomas Manoj and Andy Emery opened the bowling and the ball moved in the air considerably, much to the delight of the expectant slip cordon. Thomas (2/5) produced two superb away swinging deliveries to remove both openers within the first three overs and soon BC were 11 for 3 when Manesh was brilliantly run out by Shaun.
Disco Dave Scott soon clean bowled a hapless Nick White with a quicker arm ball but it was the wily old left arm spin of Bobby Young that caused havoc in the middle order. Dale (28), who was in belligerent mood, ran past a well-flighted ball to be stumped, Dilip (5) and Adrian (8) could not cope with the bounce of the ‘floater’ and Haroon (2) was bamboozled by the ‘sinker’.
Steve (5) became Bobby’s career first fifth wicket when he carved a viciously turning delivery to backward point. That brought an end to the innings (94 all out) and prompted Bobby to acknowledge the wild crowd celebrations for his 5 for 26 with a customary raising of the ball in his left hand and nodding knowingly to all four corners of the ground.
PCC batsmen Venky and Dan Nicholson set about the modest run chase but the heavens opened with PCC on 2 for 0 after only one over. It soon became apparent as the ground disappeared under a sea of rainwater that no further play was possible so both teams sat under the tent and reminisced of playing days gone by whilst drinking iced cold beer.
PCC have an internal friendly game this coming Sunday for anyone wishing to come along. Everyone will get a game and all are welcome. Please refer to the club website www.pattayacricket club.com or club Facebook page for more details.
Pattaya Cricket Club and British Club of Bangkok line up for a team photo at the Thai Polo Ground in Pattaya, Sunday, November 30.
Players engage in some impromptu post-match fielding practice.
