Washington Cricket Club - 40th Anniversary Year

The Wash was optimistic as they won the toss and elected to bat but quickly found themselves facing some fast hostile bowling with plenty of movement. Cruickshank quickly departed for 2 and was soon followed by Davis (14) caught pulling again, Braniff (13) and Hamlet (0).

The change of bowler bought no respite with Demitri dealing with the big in-swingers before being hit in the head by a short one that landed at point. After a few wobbles, the Guru dug back in but was eventually caught behind for 6 after a typically gutsy display.

Gluckman settled in to anchor the innings as batsman came and went including Guy (0), Rider (5) and Pendry before eventually being stumped for 10. Relf and Mitchell finish not out on 13 and 1 respectively but the steady fall of wickets and fast accurate bowling mixed with accurate spin left the Wash with only 76 to defend.

After being dragged away from the Ashes, the Wash worked hard to defend the short total with good accurate bowling and tight fielding. Michell (7.2 overs, 1 maiden 1-27) broke through early and was constantly beating the outside edge as was Guy (7 overs, 1 maiden, 0-14) while Pendry was unlucky to see some induced mis-timed shots fall safely. However, Graces comfortably overhauled the target without further loss after 18 overs enabling all to catch the last 20 minutes of the first test.

Skipper Davis noted that "Graces just bowled too well and bowler changes brought no respite. In the end, we just didn't make enough and were well beaten by a better team".

Man of the Match - None nominated

Packing the kit - Hamlet, Guy and Pendry for their ducks