The 27th of June 2009 saw Cambourne III’s away to Babraham III’s. Even though the match did not prove to be one of epic duration, the 45 minute drive in Simons Van certainly was.

Having lost the toss, Cambourne were put in to bat first and this was a decision that proved to be a wise move for the opposition. The weather at this point was humid and damp, the crease resembling something more in keeping with a racetrack than a cricket square.

The Woodsman carved a solid innings of 33 and proved to be an anchor for the rest of the line up. Scoring was difficult due to a very slow outfield and good bowling by the opposition. Steve Hanks came in at number 5 and scored his way to a useful 14 with some great running between the wickets. Mike Longson Jnr put on a very well received 17, hitting what was to be the biggest 6 that the Longson family have produced to date – great shot Mike, we all loved it ! .. Sunils penchant for Hoisin proved to be irresistible for him yet again, ordering number 0 from the menu in what has proved to be the same 3 course affair. Cambourne were eventually all out for 107.

Half time came and the tea at Babraham was splendid, it was an eclectic assortment of fine cakes, sandwiches and baguettes with a bountiful supply of fresh strawberries. I personally enjoyed the little chocolate cake with the giant chocolate button on the top.

‘Bowling Bowling’ fever struck straight after tea with Abhi Sharma opening up with what proved to be an onslaught of exceptional spin bowling. The very first ball of the game was delivered with exacting precision forcing the batsman to play an edge resulting in an audacious low catch by the fine styled blonde haired guy waiting in the slips, good looks aside, Jonny set Cambourne off to a great start. Abhi continued to bowl with skill and flair, something which I heard successive Babraham batsmen comment upon, his efforts were again rewarded later on with a splendid caught and bowled. Joe Tyrrell was at the other end and put on some fine bowling, both he and Abhi opened with consistency and precision, it was not long when Joe claimed his wicket dislodging the middle stump with a great ball. Joe Tyrrells cries of ‘Bowling Bowling’ rallied Cambourne as Mike Longson Jnr sent the stumps flying on 2 occasions with Jonny claiming the last wicket. Babraham had reached 108 after 31 overs and with the loss of 6 wickets.

Despite losing, Cambourne III’s fielded exceptionally well and certainly gave Babraham something to think about as the wickets fell with apparent ease.

Thanks to Ryan Hanks for scoring yet again, I know that we all genuinely appreciate his help on the day.

Still frustrated at his lack of scoring on the way home, Simon sent a pigeon for a straight 6 as it hit his windscreen, smashing it at 80 mph .. at least Sunil wasn’t driving, but then again ducks cant fly ..