Steeton 136 a/o in 46.5 overs

J Akrigg 12, J Procter 1, H Shakespeare 0, N Spragg 2, A Greenwood 2, A Luxton 4, J Best 52, G Boulton 2, M Akrigg 20, N Wilson 6*, S Pearson 0, Extras 34

A Burton 10.5-3-21-4, D Hastings 13-2-39-4, M Rassool 13-3-24-1, A Hussain 10-3-25-0

Bilton 139-3 in 29.5 overs

J Leggett 80*, C Dawson 5, P Cannings 17, C Williams 2, S Clemerson 29*, Extras 6

J Best 2.2-0-12-0, S Pearson 3-0-32-1, G Boulton 3.2-0-17-0, M Akrigg 6-0-30-0. N Spragg 8-1-19-2, H Shakespeare 2.5-0-24-0, A Luxton 1-0-4-0

Steeton 1st XI started the season the way they finished the last season, as they crashed to a 7 wicket defeat at the hands of Steeton’s bogey-side, Bilton. Steeton lost their top 3 batsmen with the score on 14 runs, with only John Akrigg (12) from the top order reaching double figures. With further shutterings of wickets Steeton had collapsed to 50 runs for 7 wickets and were looking at an embarrassment. However a fine 8th wicket partnership of 63 runs, between top-scorer Jon Best (52) and the prodigal Mark Akrigg (20), brought some slight respectability to the score. Jon Best’s excellent 52 runs came from 114 deliveries and included 7 boundaries. Steeton finished all out for just 139 runs from 46.5 overs, with a major contribution coming from 34 extras!

Bilton’s reply was led by opener Leggett, who was unbeaten on 80* runs. The only Steeton bowler who could look at his performance with pride was Neil Spragg, who took 2 wickets at the cost of just 19 runs from 8 overs. It was heartening to see Neil bowling fast, as he has been unable to bowl for the last 2 seasons with a shoulder injury. The only other bowler to collect a wicket was Steve Pearson (1-32), and there were catches for Mark Akrigg and keeper Neil Wilson.

Steeton 156-9 in 50 overs

J Akrigg 10, J Procter 4, H Shakespeare 1, N Spragg 20, A Greenwood 7, A Luxton 24, J Best 10, G Boulton 12, M Akrigg 9, N Wilson 32*, S Pearson 3*, Extras 25

D McKay 17-4-50-5, D Moss-Blundell 18-4-46-2, M Khan 12-3-24-0, G Pickles 3-0-14-2

Follifoot 157-9 in 33 overs

M Khan 23, J Pickles 39, M Halmshaw 36, G Pickles 20, P Angove 14, S Bridson 2*, P Miller 5, L Ford 0, D McKay 6, D Moss-Blundell 4, N Walker 1*, Extras 7

S Pearson 10-3-40-3, N Spragg 10-1-47-4, M Akrigg 6-0-26-2, A Luxton 5-0-24-0, G Boulton 2-0-13-0

The bowling of Steeton 1st XI almost made up for another poor batting performance, but in a poor start to this season’s campaign our 1st XI lost by 1 wicket at Follifoot. Batting first Steeton’s top order were soon in trouble at 35 runs for 4 wickets, with only John Akrigg (10) making double figures. A careful innings of 20 runs from 60 deliveries by Neil Spragg steadied the middle order, and further knocks of 24 runs by Andrew Luxton, 10 runs by John Best & 12 runs by skipper Gary Boulton helped the score along to 121 runs for 9 wickets. Batting at number 10 the unlikely top-scorer for Steeton was keeper Neil Wilson (32*), who along with Stephen Pearson (3*) put on a unbeaten 10th wicket stand of 35 runs. Neil Wilson’s unbeaten 32* runs came from 39 runs and included 5 boundaries. Steeton finished with 156 runs for 9 wickets in their 50 overs.

By contrast Follifoot’s top batsmen all topped 20 runs as they comfortably reached 134 runs for the loss of 4 wickets. But with just 22 runs required wickets started to tumble, and Follifoot scraped home with just 1 wicket to spare. The pick of the Steeton bowlers was Neil Spragg who collected 4 wickets for 47 runs from 10 overs. Stephen Pearson also bowled well as he collected 3 wickets for 40 runs from his 10 overs. Mark Akrigg’s left-arm spin also earned him 2 wickets for 26 runs from 6 overs. The bowlers were well supported in the field with 2 excellent catches by Stephen Pearson, Neil Spragg took a further 2 catches (including one from his own bowling), and John Akrigg also took a catch from his brother Mark’s bowling. Follifoot finished 157 runs for 9 wickets from 33 overs to win by 1 wicket. Steeton were so close – but so far, and had to leave Follifoot empty-handed.

Steeton 233-9 in 50 overs

J Procter 10, C Meehan 54, H Shakespeare 25, J Akrigg 10, A Greenwood 22, A Luxton 25, J Best 39, G Boulton 14, N Wilson 15*, M Akrigg 5, S Pearson 1*, Extras 13

N Dufty 15-2-78-1, N Richardson 16-2-60-3, B Singelton 10-2-34-1, S Wales 9-0-49-4

North Leeds 236-8 in 49.4 overs

R Winter 41, T Jackson 20, D Yeates 20, M Kellaway 41, N Baker 36, S Wales 1, B Singleton 35*, L Grey 4, N Dufty 6, C Langford 14*, Extras 18

S Pearson 9-1-40-1, J Best 13-0-77-2, G Boulton 11.4-2-44-2, M Akrigg 8-1-31-1, A Luxton 8-2-29-2

Steeton’s disastrous start to the season continued away at North Leeds. Batting first Steeton scored 233 runs for 9
wickets from their 50 overs, with the in-form Chris Meehan top-scoring with 54 runs. Chris had scored 159 runs in his 2 previous 2nd XI innings, and his third half-century of the season came from 93 deliveries with 7 boundaries. Jon Best continued his good start with 39 runs from just 38 deliveries with 7 fours. Australian Hagan Shakespeare is improving with every innings and hit 1 six and 4 fours in a knock of 25 runs. Andrew Luxton also chipped in with 25 runs and Adam Greenwood scored 22 runs. The other players to score double figures were opener James Procter (10), John Akrigg (10), skipper Gary Boulton (14), and yet to be be dismissed this season Neil Wilson scored a rapid unbeaten 15* runs.

In reply North Leeds lost wickets regularly, but their depth of batting saw them pass the Steeton total with 2 wicket and just 2 balls to spare. There were 2 wickets apiece for Jon Best (2-77), Gary Boulton (2-44) & leg-spinner Andrew Luxton (2-29), and a wicket each for Stephen Pearson (1-40) and Mark Akrigg (1-31). The bowlers were well supported with 6 wickets falling to catches: 2 for Adam Greenwood, and 1 each for Aussie Hagan Shakespeare, keeper Neil Wilson, and the brothers Mark & John Akrigg. North Leeds scored 236 runs for 8 wickets from 49.4 deliveries, and despite a fighting performance and a close finish Steeton come away from this fixture still without any points so far this season.

Bardsey 142 a/o in 39.1 overs

M Pieri 2, P Pratt 74, A Slack 16, G Hopton 34, E Clayton 0, M Mills 0, P Franklin 5, G Hopton 0, C Cliff 0, R Bielby 0, R Clayton 2*, Extras 11

J Best 6-1-23-3, S Pearson 9-2-35-2, G Boulton 7-1-32-2, A Luxton 9-2-23-1, M Akrigg 8.1-3-22-2

Steeton 143-1 in 19 overs

J Procter 58*, C Meehan 59, H Shakespeare 10*, Extras 16

R Bielby 6-0-46-0, E Clayton 6-0-33-0, A Slack 2-0-14-0, R Clayton 3-1-10-0, P Pratt 2-0-29-1

Steeton moved convincingly into the 2nd round of the Waddilove Cup with a 9 wicket demolition of Bardsey. Asked to bat first Bardsey had moved smoothly to pass the 100 run mark in the 27th over for the loss of 2 wickets, and were set to launch an assault in the final third of their innings. But with the score on 114 runs the loss of opener Pratt for 74 runs to a rash pull shot (well caught by Aussie Hagan Shakespeare on the boundary from the bowling of Stephen Pearson) was the turning point. Bardsey’s innings quickly collapsed and they were soon all out for 142 runs in 39.1 overs. All Steeton’s bowlers performed well, with opener Jon Best returning the best figures with 3 wickets for 23 runs from 6 overs. There were 2 wickets each for Steve Pearson (2-35), skipper Gary Boulton (2-32) & Mark Akrigg (2-22). In a tight 9 overs Andrew Luxton (1-23) picked up the other wicket to fall. Gary Boulton & Adam Greenwood took 2 comfortable catches each, keeper Neil Wilson had a stumping & took a catch, and Hagan Shakespeare took a fine ‘swirling’ catch on the square-leg boundary.

With drizzly rain in the air Steeton’s reply was short-lived as openers Chris Meehan & James Procter set about the Bardsey bowling with gusto. Chris Meehan notched his fourth successive half-century of the season, as he scored a controlled 59 runs from just 49 deliveries with 8 boundaries. Chris shared an opening partnership of 120 runs with James Procter, who went on to finish unbeaten on 58* runs scored from 55 balls faced with 1 six and 11 fours. Australian Hagan Shakespeare (10*) finished the match in style as he hit a four & a straight six to pass the Bardsey total with 9 wickets and 26 overs to spare. Steeton finished with 143 runs for 1 wicket in 19 overs, to record their first win of the season and book a fixture at home to Alwoodley in the 2nd round on 20th May

Steeton 172-7 in 50 overs

J Akrigg 7, C Meehan 0, H Shakespeare 11, N Spragg 83, J Best 9, A Luxton 25, A Greenwood 8, G Boulton 19*, N Wilson 0*, Extras 10

A Burke 14-3-32-3, M Knowles 10-1-19-1, R Atkinson 14-2-53-2, P Ridgeway 12-2-58-1

Otley 148-9 in 50 overs

G Thompson 0, S Smith 22, J Hughes 19, J Davies 40, M OGrady 6, P Ridgeway 15, D Taylor 16, R Atkinson 3, A Burke 1, M Knowles 9*, C Campbell 0*, Extras 17

J Best 9-2-35-1, S Pearson 11-0-25-3, N Spragg 14-4-36-5, A Luxton 3-0-10-0, G Boulton 7-2-17-0, M Akrigg 6-0-14-0

Neil Spragg is utter quality! I just had to start this report with that observation. Skipper Gary Boulton once again lost the toss and was asked to bat first. Steeton 1st XI were soon 3 wickets down with only 26 runs on the board – Aussie Hagan Shakespeare (11) the only batter with double figures, and Chris Meehan’s great run of successive fifties coming to an end with a duck! Against this poor start Neil Spragg came in at number 4 and proceeded to score a magnificent 83 runs from 137 deliveries with 4 sixes & 7 fours. Neil shared a fifth wicket partnership of 47 runs with Andrew Luxton, who scored 25 runs, and a seventh wicket stand of 53 runs with skipper Gary Boulton, who scored an unbeaten 19* runs. Neil was out with just 1 ball of the innings left, and Steeton finished with 172 runs for 7 wickets from 50 overs.

Otley’s reply was hampered by light rain, but progressed smoothly, and they looked favourites to win as they passed the 100 run mark having only lost 4 wickets. To complete a fantastic all-round performance Neil Spragg was also in great form with the ball as he took 5 wickets for just 36 runs from 14 overs. Stephen Pearson was bowling well with 3 wickets for 25 runs from 11 overs, but the ‘nanny state’ that insists he can only bowl 6 overs spells, meant he was unable bowl in the last 6 overs, when he was looking menacing. Jon Best (1-35) took the other wicket to fall, there were 2 catches each for John Akrigg and keeper Neil Wilson, and Chris Meehan took a further catch. Having passed the ¾ total of 129 runs, Otley succeeded in batting-out for a draw – scoring 148 runs having lost 9 wickets in their 50 overs. Steeton take away 4 points from this encounter, and must be pleased to have had a good performance and some points on the board from a (4-2) winning draw. I will finish this report as it started – Neil Spragg is utter quality!

Steeton 168 a/o in 44.5 overs

J Akrigg 5, J Procter 4, C Meehan 15, N Spragg 13, H Shakespeare 45, A Luxton 24, A Greenwood 9, G Boulton 5, N Wilson 14, S Pearson 12*, P Hardwick 0, Extras 22

A Allert 14.5-2-35-5, M Naylor 14-1-52-1, P Dibb 8-0-28-2, R Henry 8-1-30-2

Pool 170-5 in 44.4 overs

J Ward 71, D Singleton 10, D Murphy 15, J Davey 11, J Goldthorpe 17, R Henry 37*, S Wood 0*, Extras 9

N Spragg 16-3-44-3, S Pearson 12-3-33-2, G Boulton 6-0-39-0, P Hardwick 6.4-1-25-0, A Luxton 4-0-22-0

Steeton’s poor start to the season continued with a 5 wickets defeat at Pool. Skipper Gary Boulton once again called the toss wrong, and was asked to bat first. Both openers were soon removed with just 19 runs on the board, by Pool’s Allert, who finished with 5 wickets for 35 runs. Chris Meehan (15) & Neil Spragg (13) both chipped in to take the score on to 53 runs for 4 wickets. Aussie Hagan Shakespeare is improving with each match, and he top-scored with 45 runs, scored from 60 deliveries with 1 six & 7 fours. Hagan shared a 56 run fifth wicket partnership with Andrew Luxton, who contributed 24 runs, from 56 balls faced with 4 boundaries. Steeton’s ‘tail’ wagged, with the in-form Neil Wilson scoring 14 runs and Stephen Pearson an unbeaten 12* runs. Steeton closed on 168 runs all out in 44.5 overs.

Pool’s reply was led by opener Ward, who scored 71 runs. Pool were always in control of this match and passed the Steeton total with 5 wickets and 3 overs to spare. Neil Spragg was again in good form with the ball, as he finished with 3 wickets for 44 runs from 16 overs. His opening partner Stephen Pearson was also bowling well, with 2 wickets for 33 runs from 12 overs, but again was unable to bowl at the last 5 overs because of the 6 over restriction. Three Pool batsmen were caught; with a single catch each for ‘keeper Neil Wilson, John Akrigg & Aussie Hagan Shakespeare. Pool finished with 170 runs for 5 wickets from 44.4 overs, meaning Steeton 1st XI leave Pool without any points. Their tally of just 4 points from the first 5 league matches means they are firmly at the base of the league.

Alwoodley 155-6 in 45 overs

I Taylor 7, C Barnett 0, I Amin 57, P Horsey 0, M Mitchell 0, P Slater 1, H Lovell 53*, J Hewitt 16*, Extras 21

S Pearson 9-1-30-2, G Boulton 8-2-30-1, N Spragg 9-2-22-2, J Emmott 7-3-17-1, A Luxton 7-1-24-0, H Shakespeare 3-0-10-0, C Meehan 2-0-8-0

Steeton 157-2 in 27.1 overs

J Akrigg 2, J Procter 60*, C Meehan 5, N Spragg 62*, Extras 28

H Lovell 7-0-30-1, P Horsey 6.1-0-28-1, J Hewitt 5-0-17-0, I Amin 4-1-20-0, P Longstaff 3-0-33-0, M Mitchell 2-0-18-0

Steeton are through to the next round of the Waddilove Cup following a convincing defeat of Alwoodley. Alwoodley batted first and recovered from a disastrous start which saw them at 27 runs for the loss of 5 wickets to finish on 155 runs for 6 wickets in 45 overs. Neil Spragg (2-22) and Stephen Pearson (2-30) were both in devastating form as they collected 2 wickets each. James Emmott (1-17) and Gary Boulton (1-30) were the other bowlers to take wickets. Steeton’s fielding was a mixture of good & bad, with some catches being put down while some excellent catches were held. Chris Meehan took a great reaction catch at first slip and Stephen Pearson judged perfectly a difficult catch running around the long-off boundary. Gary Boulton took a sharp return catch from his own bowling, and the dependable hands of Hagan Shakespeare & James Emmott never looked likely to drop their catches.

In reply Steeton got off to a poor start, and had lost their first 2 wickets with only 23 runs on the board. This brought together the experienced Neil Spragg with young opener James Procter. Together they took advantage of some questionable bowling as they plundered a magnificent unbeaten 3rd wicket stand of 134 runs to win the match. Neil Spragg faced 60 balls for his 62* runs not out and hit 1 six and 9 fours; James Procter scored an unbeaten 60* runs not out from 95 deliveries with 1 six and 6 fours. Steeton had scored 157 runs for the loss of 2 wickets from 27.1 overs, to win by 8 wickets with 17 overs to spare. Steeton now meet Addingham in the 3rd Round at home on 17th June.

Burley-in-Wharfedale 179 a/o in 47.5 overs

R Brook 12, M Harrison 0, D Brook 57, I Frost 1, N Brook 33, R Truswell 8, J Wylie 7, J Davey 11, N Davies 0, P Sumner 31, S Etherington 6*, Extras 13

S Pearson 12-5-25-2, P Hardwick 8.5-0-35-3, M Akrigg 18-5-65-5, N Spragg 6-1-29-0, G Boulton 3-0-12-0

Steeton 182-6 in 50.4 overs

M Wilson 14, A Greenwood 0, H Shakespeare 54, N Spragg 2, J Akrigg 48*, A Luxton 20, N Wilson 0, G Boulton 25*, Extras 19

N Brook 19.4-4-49-2, J Wylie 12-0-61-1, M Harrsion 11-2-19-1, S Etherington 8-0-38-2

Steeton 1st XI notched up their first league win of the season with an excellent performance against Burley. Burley batted first and were reduced to 142 runs for 9 wickets, but a last wicket partnership of 37 runs took their score up to 179 runs all out in 47.5 overs. Spinner Mark Akrigg was in devastating form as he took 5 wickets for 65 runs from 18 overs. Paul Hardwick (3-35) and Stephen Pearson (2-25) also bowled well. The fielding was top quality with 2 catches for Neil Spragg, and 1 each for ‘keeper Neil Wilson, John Akrigg, Gary Boulton & Paul Hardwick.

Steeton’s batting line-up was without many regular players and had veteran Mick Wilson (14) opening the innings for the 1st XI for the first time in 6 years. Mick shared a 2nd wicket stand of 44 runs with Aussie Hagan Shakespeare, who is improving with every match. Hagan top-scored with 54 runs scored from 72 deliveries with 1 six and 8 fours. When Andrew Luxton was out for 20 runs the score slumped to 126 runs for 6 wickets, but this brought together the experienced pairing of John Akrigg & skipper Gary Boulton. John & Gary put together a match winning unbeaten 7th wicket partnership of 56 runs. John Akrigg is trying to play himself back into his best form, and his innings of 48* runs not out, scored from 118 deliveries with 6 boundaries will have helped considerably. Gary Boulton played a captain’s innings as he scored 25* runs not out from 33 balls faced with 1 six and 2 fours. Steeton needed the extra overs they got from getting Burley all out, as they scored 182 runs for 6 wickets in 50.4 overs to win by 4 wickets and collect their first 6 points of the season. This win lifts Steeton 1st XI off the bottom of the league table to 10th place.

Steeton 238-9 in 50 overs

Mick Wilson 20, C Meehan 32, H Shakespeare 65, N Spragg 66, J Akrigg 10, A Luxton 14, J Best 6, G Boulton 5, N Wilson 4*, S Pearson 3, Extras 13

J Lilley 12-0-61-2, P Thompson 8-1-21-0, M Smart 3-0-29-0, N Loudon 13-0-58-1, B Quick 14-0-59-6

Beckwithshaw 239-2 in 47.2 overs

J Carson 119, P Critchley 111*, S Carey 4, B Quick 0*, Extras 5

J Best 11-1-49-2, S Pearson 12-4-47-0, A Luxton 6-0-39-0, P Hardwick 3-0-25-0, N Spragg 8-1-37-0, G Boulton 7-0-34-0, J Akrigg 0.2-0-4-0

Despite scoring 238 runs for 9 wickets in their 50 overs, having been asked to bat first, Steeton 1st XI were unable to make inroads into the Beckwithshaw batting, and lost by 8 wickets. Neil Spragg top-scored with 66 runs scored from 79 deliveries with 2 sixes & 3 fours, and Aussie Hagan Shakespeare was only one run behind with 65 runs scored from 52 deliveries with 2 sixes & 11 fours. Openers Mick Wilson (20) and Chris Meehan (32) gave us a solid start and down the order Andrew Luxton chipped in with 14 runs and John Akrigg with 10 runs. Steeton had been 122 runs for 2 wickets at the half-way point, and so the Duckworth-Lewis expected score would have been in excess of 300! However the next 10 overs only yielded 34 runs, and so Steeton final total was well below what might have been hoped. Beckwithshaw’s spin bowler Quick (6-59) was Steeton’s main tormentor, having 3 batsmen stumped.

Beckwithshaw’s reply was emphatic, and helped by some aberrant Steeton catching, their opening partnership was 222 runs, with both of their openers scoring centuries: Carson (119) and Critchley (111*). Jon Best (2-49) was the only Steeton bowler to take any wickets, with both being caught – one by Andrew Luxton & the other by Hagan Shakespeare. Beckwithshaw scored 239 runs for 2 wickets in 47.2 overs and collect all 6 points from this encounter. Steeton lost by 8 wickets and so move down the league table – they are now 2nd to the bottom of Division 1.

Collingham & Linton 272 a/o in 50 overs

M Cooke 51, B Leigh 6, P Seed 4, T Jacklin 13, E Burzler 70, T Wilby 1, J Kennaway 3, T Hollis 56, P Tulip 44, N Cashion 11, S Booth 0*, Extras 13

J Best 12-0-63-2, S Pearson 12-2-52-3, N Spragg 10-1-73-2, A Luxton 7-0-34-1, G Boulton 3-1-12-1, P Hardwick 6-0-27-1

Steeton 177 a/o in 41.4 overs

H Shakespeare 20, M Wilson 8, C Meehan 20, N Spragg 6, J Akrigg 0, A Luxton 0, J Best 75, G Boulton 1, N Wilson 22, S Pearson 9*, P Hardwick 0, Extras 16

N Cashion 8-0-42-0, E Burzler 17.4-3-49-6, T Jacklin 10-2-51-2, S Booth 6-1-24-1

Batting first Collingham looked in some trouble at 108 runs for the loss of 5 wickets, but late runs from Hollis (56) & Tulip (44) helped them to reach a substantial 272 runs all out in their 50 overs. The pick of the bowlers was junior Stephen Pearson, who took 3 wickets for 52 runs from 12 overs. There were 2 wickets each for Jon Best (2-63) and Neil Spragg (2-73). All the other bowlers collected a single wicket apiece: leg-spinner Andrew Luxton (1-34), skipper Gary Boulton (1-12) and Paul Hardwick (1-27). Keeper Neil Wilson was in sparkling form as he collected as he conceded no byes while collecting a Club record-equalling 6 catches, including his hundredth 1st XI catch! Neil Spragg also took 1 catch.

Chasing Collingham’s 272 runs, Steeton 1st XI lost wickets regularly with Aussie Hagan Shakespeare (20) and Chris Meehan (20), both getting starts which they were unable to convert into significant contributions. Jon Best certainly did make a significant contribution as he scored 75 runs from 61 deliveries with 2 sixes and 14 fours. Jon shared an 8th wicket stand of 48 runs with in-form Neil Wilson, who contributed 22 runs. However, Steeton never looked likely to challenge the Collingham total, and it was only the last pair at the crease who made any attempt to bat out for the draw. Steeton were all out in 41.4 overs and so lost by 95 runs.

Steeton 174-8 in 49 overs

M Wilson 6, J Akrigg 39, C Meehan 14, N Spragg 19, H Shakespeare 43, J Best 7, A Luxton 19*, G Boulton 8, N Wilson 0, S Pearson 6*, Extras 13

N Britton 25-3-76-6, O Halliday 8-1-22-0, N Allitt 8-1-25-0, S Crosby 8-0-42-2

Green Lane 161-4 in 49 overs

D Whitaker 0, M Abbott 83*, V Mahajan 29, S Hargreaves 1, B McCormick 2, R Britton 35*, Extras 11

S Pearson 10-2-33-1, J Best 9-2-49-0, G Boulton 15-2-32-1, P Hardwick 11-6-18-2, N Spragg 4-0-21-0

Steeton 1st XI had a 4-2 winning draw in a rain-effected match at Nunroyd Park. Opening the innings John Akrigg scored 39 runs careful runs from 96 deliveries with 5 boundaries, but when he departed Steeton had scored 90 runs for 4 wickets from 31 overs. Chris Meehan (14) and Neil Spragg (19) had both reached double figures but had been unable to progress. Batting at No5 Aussie Hagan Shakespeare top-scored with 43 quick runs scored from just 35 deliveries with 1 six and 3 fours, and at the end of the innings Andrew Luxton scored an unbeaten 19* runs. For Green Lane, Britton bowled all 25 overs from one end, and took 6 wickets for 76 runs. Steeton closed at 174 runs for 8 wickets in their allotted 49 overs.

After collapsing to 41 runs for 4 wickets the Green Lane reply was overly cautious, and they had only managed to reach 85 runs after the first 40 overs. Paul Hardwick was the pick of the bowlers with 2 wickets for 18 runs from 11 overs. Skipper Gary Boulton bowled 15 tight overs that only conceded 32 runs as he collected 1 wicket, and Stephen Pearson (1-33) took the other wicket to fall. Neil Spragg took 2 catches and there was another catch for Jon Best, but over all Steeton’s catching was by no means at its best! Green Lane made an attempt to salvage this match in the last 9 overs of the match, but fortunately they had left it too late before launching the assault. For Green Lane, Abbott (83*) batted right through the innings. Green Lane finished with 161 runs for 4 wickets in 49 overs, and so Steeton collect 4 valuable points from this winning draw.

Steeton 210-8 in 45 overs

J Akrigg 11, J Procter 22, C Meehan 43, H Shakespeare 19, J Best 13, A Luxton 32, G Boulton 28, T Stead 5, N Wilson 2*, S Pearson 9*, Extras 26

J Hall 9-1-34-1, D Stuart 9-2-45-2, A Merritt 5-0-37-1, D Robinson 9-0-36-0, R Hey 9-0-22-1, P Smith 4-0-21-1

Addingham 158-8 in 45 overs

P Smith 18, D Robinson 23, D Stuart 5, D Hall 36*, J Hall 50, R Hey 7, D Leng 2, M Barbar 1, A Merritt 2, P Etchells 0*, Extras 13

J Best 9-2-38-2, S Pearson 9-0-27-0, P Hardwick 9-3-19-2, A Luxton 5-0-16-1, T Stead 6-2-15-1, G Boulton 6-1-23-1, C Meehan 1-0-13-0

Steeton lost the toss again and were asked to bat first against 3rd Division Addingham. After a solid start Steeton lost both openers John Akrigg (11) and James Procter (22) before they had passed 38 runs. Chris Meehan batted well for his 43 runs scored from 50 deliveries with 6 boundaries, before being stumped and Aussie Hagan Shakespeare scored 19 runs before being well run out. Jon Best chipped in with 13 runs, and Andrew Luxton scored a solid 32 runs from 40 balls faced with 2 boundaries. Skipper Gary Boulton upped the scoring rate as he hit 2 sixes and 2 fours as he added 28 runs and Stephen Pearson (9*) hit a six off the last ball of the innings to take Steeton’s score to 210 runs for 8 wickets in 45 overs.

Addingham’s reply started steadily, but after Paul Hardwick had taken a fine top-edge catch from the bowling of Andrew Luxton (1-16), the introduction of Paul into the bowling attack was a key factor as he clean bowled two of Addingham top-order batsmen. Paul bowled 9 overs and only conceded 19 runs, while taking his 2 wickets. Jon Best (2-38) also took 2 wickets, both being well caught by Tom Stead on the square leg boundary. On his 1st XI debut not only did Tom Stead take 2 excellently judged catches, he also bowled 6 tight overs, that conceded just 15 runs as he collected 1 wicket. Tom’s wicket was 1 of the 2 sharp stumpings executed by keeper Neil Wilson – the other stumping was from the bowling of skipper Gary Boulton (1-23). Gary Boulton also made a great stop and accurate throw that resulted in a run out. Addingham could only manage 158 runs for 8 wickets in their 45 overs, and so Steeton won by 52 runs & they now progress to the semi-final of the Waddilove Cup where they travel to Collingham on the 15th July.

Steeton 160-8 in 50 overs

J Akrigg 24, J Procter 7, C Meehan 0, N Spragg 24, H Shakespeare 28, J Best 14, A Luxton 2, G Boulton 43*, N Wilson 1, S Pearson 2*, Extras 15

J Francas 6-2-17-1, S Dayma 15-5-23-3, M Shires 3-0-17-0, J Shires 16-3-56-2, T Grey 10-2-37-2

Adel 163-5 in 41 overs

J Francas 9, M Dallaston 23, S Howie 52, D Standring 44, S Dayma 7, R Jones 5*, S Wardley 13*, Extras 10

S Pearson 8-3-32-1, N Spragg 5-0-21-1, G Boulton 9-2-24-1, P Hardwick 7-1-27-1, A Luxton 3-1-20-0, J Best 9-1-33-1

Steeton 1st XI lost by 5 wickets at home to Adel. Skipper Gary Boulton’s incredible losing streak with the coin toss continues and Steeton were asked to bat first on a wicket that had soaked up a lot of rain. Steeton lost their first 2 wickets with only 9 runs on the board, before opener John Akrigg (24) & Neil Spragg (24) steadied the innings with a 3rd wicket stand of 51 runs. Aussie Hagan Shakespeare scored 28 runs and Jon Best scored 14 runs, but no-one from the top-order was able to convert a good start into a significant contribution. It was left to skipper Gary Boulton batting at No8 to put respectability to the score with a great 43* runs not out from just 37 deliveries with 4 sixes and 2 fours. Steeton’s innings closed on 160 runs for 8 wickets in their 50 overs.

In reply Adel were always up with the required rate, and Howie (52) & Standring (44) were able to take the match away from Steeton. Five of the Steeton bowlers took a single wicket each: Stephen Pearson (1-32), Neil Spragg (1-21), Gary Boulton (1-24), Paul Hardwick (1-27) & Jon Best (1-33). Keeper Neil Wilson took 2 catches and Gary Boulton collected a further catch, and Chris Meehan was awarded a fielding point. Adel scored 163 runs for 5 wickets in 41 overs, and so Steeton lose by 5 wickets and leave another match empty-handed. Steeton are now 4 points adrift at the base of division 1.

Steeton 174-5 in 25 overs

H Shakespeare 6, C Meehan 6, J Akrigg 12, N Spragg 29, J Higginson 33, A Greenwood 23*, G Boulton 46*, Extras 19

S Hudson 9-0-48-1, A Siddall 12-1-74-3, J Siddall 4-0-35-1

Kirkstall Educational 177-6 in 22.2 overs

A Harrison 37, A Siddall 21, J Siddall 50*, J Hawley 20, J James 0, J Knibbs 11, S Hudson 32, O Metcalfe 0*, Extras 6

P Akrigg 3-0-28-0, G Boulton 11-0-71-4, P Hardwick 4-0-31-1, N Spragg 4-0-38-1, S Pearson 0.2-0-6-0

Only one match was able to be played to a conclusion on this wet Saturday – and in that single match that was completed Steeton 1st XI managed to lose to Kirkstall Educational. On a day when the toss was of paramount importance skipper Gary Boulton’s dire luck continued and Steeton 1st XI were asked to bat first in a match reduced to 25 overs each. Steeton started slowly with only John Akrigg (12) of first 3 batsmen reaching double figures; John was dismissed with the score just 46 runs for 3 wickets after the first 10 overs. The scoring accelerated with 29 runs from Neil Spragg from 34 deliveries, and Julian Higginson smashing 33 quick runs from just 21 balls faced, with 2 sixes and 3 fours. Adam Greenwood continued the fast scoring with an unbeaten 23* runs, and then skipper Gary Boulton was in great form as he top-scored with 46* runs not out scored from just 24 deliveries, with 3 sixes & 4 fours. Steeton had scored 174 runs for 5 wickets in their 25 overs, which meant Kirkstall would need to score at 7 runs per over.

Steady light rain during the Kirkstall innings meant the ball was skidding onto the bat and batting became slightly easier – while bowling and fielding with a saturated ball became increasingly more difficult. Following his heroics with the bat, skipper Gary Boulton also bowled a great spell and took 4 wickets for 71 runs from 11 overs. It would be interesting to know if Steeton have ever used opening bowlers with a greater combined age: Phil Akrigg & Gary Boulton have a combined age of 102 years! The other bowlers to take wickets were Paul Hardwick (1-31) and Neil Spragg (1-38). Steeton’s fielding  performance, was of a high standard, with catches for Adam Greenwood & Steve Pearson. Stand-in keeper Julian Higginson had a great game: not only did he score 33 runs. but also he took 2 catches, 1 stumping and in difficult conditions only conceded a single bye! The odds were stacked against Steeton having lost the toss and they were unable to remove Kirkstall’s No3 batter, J Siddall (50*). So Kirkstall were able to overtake the Steeton target with 2 overs & 4 wickets to spare, having scored 177 runs for 6 wickets in 22.2 overs. Steeton left with no points and are now 5 points adrift at the bottom of Division 1.

Bilton 188-9 in 50 overs

J Leggett 36, D Simpson 4, C Heptinstall 26, S Clemerson 9, S Collings 29, A Burton 1, P Cannings 43*, C Williams 22, M Rassool 0, T Perry 3, A Ali 1*, Extras 14

J Best 10.4-2-50-1, G Boulton 18-5-58-1, S Pearson 6-1-21-1, P Hardwick 6-0-14-1, A Luxton 7-1-27-2, N Spragg 2.2-0-12-0

Steeton 139-8 in 50 overs

C Meehan 0, J Akrigg 50, H Shakespeare 0, N Spragg 6, J Best 0, A Luxton 14, G Boulton 3, A Greenwood 5, N Wilson 30*, S Pearson 8*, Extras 23

A Burton 16-6-39-2, C Heptinstall 12-4-31-2, A Ali 13-0-39-2, M Rassool 6-1-11-2, D Simpson 3-1-7-0

Chasing Bilton’s 188 runs for 9 wickets in 50 overs, Steeton scored 139 runs for 8 wickets in their 50 overs – 2 runs short of the ¾ score and so had to settle for a single point from a (1-5) losing draw. The pick of the bowling was Andrew Luxton, who collected 2 wickets for 27 runs from 7 overs, and four other bowlers collected a single wicket each; Paul Hardwick (1-14), Steve Pearson (1-21), Jon Best (1-50) and Gary Boulton (1-58). Paul Hardwick was excellent in the field with 2 catches and 2 run outs. Aussie Hagan Shakespeare also collected 2 catches, and John Akrigg ran out the other Bilton batsman. At lunch Steeton were in a good position – requiring to score at less than 4 an over.

Opener John Akrigg was in great form as he top-scored with a half-century – John scored 50 runs from 92 deliveries with 8 boundaries. However, John received little support from Steeton’s top order, as they were reduced to 41 runs for the loss of 4 wickets. John did share a 5th wicket stand of 41 runs with Andrew Luxton (14), but both batsmen fell in quick succession and Steeton were 84 runs for 6 wickets. Two more wickets saw Steeton reduced to 101 runs for 8 wickets – and another defeat looked a real possibility. Keeper Neil Wilson has been in good form this year with the bat, and batting at No9 he scored an unbeaten 30 runs from 53 deliveries with 3 boundaries. Neil shared a heroic unbroken 9th wicket partnership of 38 runs with Stephen Pearson (8*). Together they saved Steeton from another defeat and were a tantalising 2 runs away from the ¾ score that would have secured a 2nd point. Steeton finished with 139 runs for 8 wickets in their 50 overs, and they are now 10 points adrift at the bottom of the 1st division.

Follifoot 195 a/o in 47.2 overs

J Pickles 1, R Hutchinson 31, M Halmshaw 87, G Pickles 45, P Miller 8, P Angove 14, L Ford 1, S Bridson 0, D McKay 0, D Moss-Blundell 0*, R Procter 0, Extras 9

S Pearson 8-1-31-1, L Stockill 10-2-45-3, G Boulton 8-5-20-0, A Gledhill 8-2-26-0, J Best 8.2-2-39-4, A Luxton 5-0-27-2

Steeton 185-8 in 52 overs

J Akrigg 22, J Procter 1, J Best 21, H Shakespeare 39, N Spragg 0, A Luxton 59, G Boulton 2, L Stockill 15, N Wilson 14*, A Gledhill 2*, Extras 10

D McKay 26-7-85-4, R Procter 15-7-41-0, G Pickles 11-0-49-3

Skipper Gary Boulton is ‘on-a-roll’ and has now won two coin tosses in a row! Follifoot were duly asked to bat first on a damp track. At drinks they were 68 runs for the loss of 1 wicket, with Stephen Pearson (1-31) taking the only wicket to fall. Follifoot were batting slowly, but had wickets in the tent to launch a later onslaught. When they did increase the score-rate they lost wickets regularly, with Jon Best the main recipient. Jon collected 4 wickets for 39 runs from 8.2 overs, and on debut Luke Stockill took 3 wickets for 45 runs from 10 overs, with the leg-spin of Andrew Luxton earning him 2 wickets. Keeper Neil Wilson collected 2 catches and there were further catches for John Akrigg, James Procter, Stephen Pearson and a return catch from his own bowling for Luke Stockill. At lunch Steeton must have been satisfied having bowled & fielded well and Follifoot were all out for 195 runs in 47.2 overs, with Halmshaw scoring 87 of those runs.

Steeton’s reply was overly cautious, and after 25 overs they were only 30 runs for 1 wicket. John Akrigg scored 22 runs and Jon Best scored 21 runs, before Aussie Hagan Shakespeare immediately upped the score-rate with a boundary from his first delivery. Hagan went on to score 39 runs from 35 balls, with 1 six and 5 fours, before being clean bowled. Andrew Luxton played a great innings with 59 runs from 65 deliveries with 2 sixes & 3 fours, which came close to winning the match for Steeton. On debut Luke Stockill scored 15 runs & Neil Wilson scored a solid 14* runs not out, as Steeton finished 10 runs short of the Follifoot total. Steeton finished with 185 runs for 8 wickets from 52 overs, and collect 2 points from a losing draw. They are now 9 points adrift at the bottom of the 1st division.

North Leeds 133-8 in 24 overs

M Kellaway 12, J Goldthorpe 19, T Jackson 5, S Wales 47, N Leech 15, L Gray 9, B Singleton 9, N Richardson 2, T Hudson 2*, G Wales 0*, Extras 13

S Pearson 6-0-19-1, L Stockill 8-0-38-2, G Boulton 6-0-47-2, J Best 4-0-20-0

Steeton 75-8 in 24 overs

H Shakespeare 11, J Akrigg 16, N Spragg 12, G Boulton 0, J Best 1, A Luxton 12, C Meehan 9, L Stockill 4, N Wilson 1*, A Gledhill 4*, Extras 4

N Richardson 8.5-0-36-2, S Wales 12-3-25-3, T Hudson 3.1-0-11-1

Rain meant most of the matches in the league were cancelled, but Steeton worked hard to give themselves a chance of picking-up more than the single point. Skipper Gary Boulton actually won the toss and as expected asked North Leeds to bat first in a match reduced to 24 overs each. North Leeds were reduced to 39 runs for 3 wickets by opening bowlers Luke Stockill (2-38) and Stephen Pearson (1-19), but a fine 47 runs by Steve Wales saw them through to 133 runs for 8 wickets in their 24 overs. Skipper Gary Boulton (2-47) also took 2 wickets, and three of the North Leeds batsmen were run out. Alex Gledhill took 2 catches & keeper Neil Wilson took 1 catch.

In reply Steeton had a steady start, with the top three batsmen all reaching double figures, but none were able to continue to convert a start into a significant contribution: Hagan Shakespeare (11), John Akrigg (16) & Neil Spragg (12). After the top order Steeton’s batting collapsed, with only Andrew Luxton (12) reaching double figures. Steeton held on for a losing draw, as they finished with 75 runs for 8 wickets in their 24 overs, and so collect the single point that they would have got if they had made no effort to make the pitch playable in the first place!.

Collingham & Linton 163-9 in 40 overs

T Hollis 17, B Leigh 7, P Seed 1, E Burzler 26, T Kilby 3, P Tulip 25, P Schofield 9, S James 20, N Cashion 1, M Keshawala 22*, S Booth 19*, Extras 13

L Stockill 7-1-27-0, P Hardwick 5-0-24-0, A Luxton 8-0-16-2, A Gledhilll 7-0-28-2, G Boulton 8-1-29-3, J Best 5-0-31-1

Steeton 166-5 in 39.1 overs

C Meehan 51, J Akrigg 26, J Best 6, N Spragg 19, H Shakespeare 4, A Luxton 38*, G Boulton 10*, Extras 12

M Keshawala 5-1-29-0, N Cashion 8-1-34-1, E Burzler 8-1-19-0, S Booth 8-1-36-2, S James 8-1-30-1, P Schofield 2.1-0-14-1

A waterlogged pitch meant this semi-final was reduced to 40 overs each. Skipper Gary Boulton’s luck with the coin toss has changed, and Collingham were duly asked to bat first. In perhaps their best performance of the season the Steeton bowlers dominated the Collingham batsmen – Burzler top-scoring with just 26 runs. Collingham scored at around 4 runs-per-over and closed on 163 runs for the loss of 9 wickets in their 40 overs. Skipper Gary Boulton was in good form with the ball as he claimed 3 wickets for 29 runs in his 8 overs. With 2 wickets each, Steeton’s spinners Andrew Luxton (2-16) & Alex Gledhill (2-28) were very effective, and Jon Best (1-31) took the other wicket. Keeper Neil Wilson collected 2 catches, and Gary Boulton ran out the other Collingham batsman.

Steeton’s reply had the solid base that has been lacking for much of this season, with an opening stand of 81 runs between top-scorer Chris Meehan (51) and John Akrigg (26). Chris Meehan’s fine 51 runs came from 64 deliveries and included 10 boundaries. Neil Spragg (19) continued the good work, but it was down to Andrew Luxton (38*) and Gary Boulton (10*) to complete the victory in the final over. Steeton had scored 166 runs for the loss of 5 wickets and a great victory by 5 wickets has booked them a place in the Waddilove Cup Final for only the 4th time in the Club’s history.

Otley 168-7 in 50 overs

G Thompson 32, S Smith 62, J Davies 7, J Hughes 27, D Taylor 4, M Wilkinson 0, M OGrady 13*, M Knowles 4, R Atkinson 3*, Extras 16

L Stockill 5-2-10-0, S Pearson 6-4-16-0, G Boulton 8-2-22-1, A Luxton 3-0-19-0, A Gledhill 16-3-47-2, J Best 5-0-22-0, N Spragg 7-0-23-3

Steeton 169-3 in 38.4 overs

C Meehan 27, J Akrigg 0, J Best 27, N Spragg 63*, H Shakespeare 41*, Extras 11

J Davies 10.4-4-49-1, M Knowles 9-3-40-1, C Campbell 6-2-18-0, R Atkinson 10-0-34-1, R Halloran 3-0-18-0

Skipper Gary Boulton’s won another toss and Otley are asked to bat first without any hesitation. As they reached 73 runs before losing their first wicket Gary must have been having doubts, but Otley continued to lose wickets regularly and closed on 168 runs for 7 wickets in their 50 overs. Neil Spragg was the pick of the bowlers, with his 7 overs conceding 23 runs as he took 3 wickets. Alex Gledhill’s controlled spell of spin bowling earned him 2 wickets for 47 runs from 16 overs, and Gary Boulton (1-22) took the other wicket. John Akrigg took 2 catches, Chris Meehan took a catch & a run out, and there was a catch each for Stephen Pearson & Luke Stockill.

In reply Steeton had only made 37 runs before both openers were dismissed with Chris Meehan scoring 27 runs. Jon Best (27) and Neil Spragg (63*) then shared an excellent 3rd wicket partnership of 54 runs, before Jon was stumped. Neil Spragg went on to share a match winning undefeated 4th wicket stand of 78 runs with Aussie Hagan Shakespeare (41*). Neil’s 63* runs came from 76 deliveries with 2 sixes & 10 fours, and Hagan faced just 33 balls for his 41* runs which included 2 sixes & 5 fours. Steeton scored 169 runs for 3 wickets to win by 7 wickets with 11 overs to spare. Steeton collect 6 valuable points, which will be invaluable as we seek to maintain 1st division status.

Pool 212-4 in 40 overs

D Singleton 40, J Ward 9, D Murphy 2, J Davey 101*, J Goldthorpe 22, R Henry 23*, Extras 15

S Pearson 7-3-24-0, L Stockill 8-3-37-1, N Spragg 4-1-14-1, A Gledhill 11-1-48-1, A Luxton 2-0-13-0, G Boulton 7-0-51-0, J Best 1-0-16-1

Steeton 167-8 in 40 overs

H Shakespeare 4, C Meehan 12, J Best 0, N Spragg 58, J Procter 22, A Luxton 9, A Gledhill 4, G Boulton 0, L Stockill 21*, S Pearson 9*, Extras 28

A Allert 12-0-41-1, C Braddock 9-0-55-3, P Dibb 11-2-31-2, R Henry 8-1-23-1

In a precursor of Sunday’s Waddilove Cup final Steeton had a losing (2-4) draw at home to Pool. In a match reduced to 40 overs each by rain Pool batted first and scored 212 runs for 4 wickets in their 40 overs, with Pool’s Davey (101*) top-scoring with an unbeaten century. Four of the seven Steeton bowlers used took a single wicket each: Neil Spragg (1-14), Jon Best (1-16), Luke Stockill (1-37) & Alex Gledhill (1-48). There were catches for keeper Neil Wilson, Neil Spragg & James Procter – which earned him a fielding point.

In reply Steeton scored 167 runs for 8 wickets in their 40 overs with Neil Spragg top-scoring with 58 runs scored from 77 deliveries with 8 boundaries. Neil shared a 4th wicket partnership of 42 runs with James Procter, who scored 22 runs. Opener Chris Meehan had earlier chipped in with 12 runs. Steeton were wobbling at 130 runs for 8 wickets, but when Steeton needed to stand firm Luke Stockill (21*) shared an impressive 9th wicket stand of 37 runs with Stephen Pearson (9*). Together they saw Steeton pass the ¾ target of 159 runs, and so Steeton were able to collect 2 points, which closes the gap on the teams at the base of the 1st division to just 3 points.

Steeton 169-9 in 45 overs

C Meehan 1, J Procter 0, J Best 13, N Spragg 18, H Shakespeare 50, A Luxton 18, L Stockill 22, G Boulton 17, N Wilson 7, A Gledhill 1*, Extras 22

A Allert 9-1-16-2, M Naylor 9-1-34-3, C Broddock 9-1-43-2, P Dibb 9-1-25-0, R Henry 9-2-42-0

Pool 172-3 in 40.3 overs

D Singleton 1, J Ward 79*, D Murphy 37, J Davey 31, J Goldthorpe 17*, Extras 8

L Stockill 5-3-13-0, S Pearson 7-1-18-0, G Boulton 6-1-31-0, A Gledhill 3-0-17-0, N Spragg 8-2-25-0, A Luxton 4-0-25-0, J Best 7-0-38-2

Steeton batted first and were soon on the back-foot having lost both openers cheaply, with just 1 run on the board. Jon Best (13) and Neil Spragg (18) steadied the innings before Australian Hagan Shakespeare top-scored with a valiant 50 runs, scored from 80 deliveries with 6 boundaries. Andrew Luxton (18), Luke Stockill (22) & skipper Gary Boulton (17) all continued the fine work and Steeton’s innings closed on 169 runs for the loss of 9 wickets in their 45 overs. For Pool, Naylor (3-34) was the most effective bowler with quick bowler Allert (2-16) & Braddock (2-43) taking 2 wickets each. Steeton’s total had been boosted by a welcome 22 extras, with 8 no-balls.

In reply Steeton’s Hagan Shakespeare ran out one of Pool’s openers, but were unable to remove his partner Ward, who went on to top-score with an unbeaten 79* runs, and was awarded the man-of-the-match trophy. With Murphy (37) & Davey (31) top-of-the table Pool were too strong and knocked off the runs with 7 wickets to spare. Jon Best was the only bowler to take any wickets and he finished with a commendable 2 wickets (both LBWs) for 38 runs from 7 overs. Pool scored 172 runs for 3 wickets in 40.3 overs, and so win the Waddilove Cup for the first time. Steeton must settle for Cup runners-up for the 3rd time and will now have to manage without the services of keeper Neil Wilson, who broke a bone in his foot.

Burley-in-Wharfedale 226-6 in 50 overs

M Harrison 36, D Brook 44, N Brook 46, C Davy 46, J Davey 1, R Brook 8, P Sumner 13*, Extras 32

S Pearson 7-1-30-1, J Best 8.5-1-43-0, L Stockill 11-0-60-3, A Gledhill 20-3-64-2, G Boulton 0.1-0-0-0, A Luxton 3-1-13-0

Steeton 164 a/o in 40.5 overs

J Akrigg 4, J Procter 26, A Luxton 49, C Meehan 38, H Shakespeare 9, J Best 0, G Boulton 4, L Stockill 0, T Stead 1, A Gledhill 7*, S Pearson 0, Extras 26

N Brook 15.5-2-41-4, J Wylie 9-1-40-1, M Harrison 5-1-18-0, S Etherington 7-0-31-2, N Davies 4-1-12-1

Steeton still seem unable to transfer good form in the cup into good league-form, and lost another league match at Burley. Burley batted first and scored a solid total of 226 runs for 6 wickets in their 50 overs, with N Brook & Davy both scoring 46 runs. For Steeton Luke Stockill was the pick of the bowlers taking 3 wickets for 60 runs, but Alex Gledhill also bowled a lengthy spell of 20 overs taking 2 wickets for 64 runs. Luke Stockill took 2 catches, and there were further catches for Andrew Luxton, John Akrigg & Alex Gledhill.

In reply Steeton were all out for 164 runs in 40.5 overs, despite Andrew Luxton top-scoring with 49 excellent runs from 73 deliveries with 6 boundaries. Andrew shared a 2nd wicket stand of 84 runs with opener James Procter, who scored 26 runs with 1 six & 2 fours. With wickets tumbling around him Chris Meehan scored 38 runs from 43 balls faced with 4 boundaries, but no other batsman was able to stay with him. For Burley, N Brook took 4 wickets to add to his 46 runs. Steeton 1st XI remain rooted to the base of the table, and are running out of matches to ensure 1st division cricket next season.

Steeton 31-1 in 6.3 overs

H Shakespeare 13, J Procter 11*, A Luxton 2*, N Spragg 3*, Extras 2

J Lilley 3.3-0-17-1, P Thompson 3-0-12-0

Beckwithshaw

With persistent light rain Steeton made every effort to get some cricket played. Steeton lost the toss and after started a 40-over match, but were forced from the field after just 2 overs. After losing further overs Steeton again took to the field, but this period of play was also short-lived, and the match was finally abandoned after 6.3 overs. Chasing quick runs Steeton had lost 1 wicket: Australian Hagan Shakespeare was caught behind for 13 runs with 3 boundaries. Hagan opened the innings with James Procter, who had scored 11 runs not out, and Andrew Luxton retired hurt having been hit painfully on his thumb. After all the efforts to make the ground playable both sides were forced to settle for a single point each.

Steeton 133 a/o in 41.4 overs

C Meehan 36, H Shakespeare 43, A Luxton 13, N Spragg 0, J Higginson 0, J Akrigg 10, J Best 9, G Boulton 2, L Stockill 0, A Gledhill 8, S Pearson 0*, Extras 12

N Chasion 3-0-27-0, E Burzler 5-0-34-0, T Jacklin 18-5-42-8, S Booth 15.4-7-23-2

Collingham & Linton 135-7 in 26.5 overs

M Cooke 0, B Leigh 18, E Burzler 4, T Jacklin 7, P Seed 0, J Kennaway 4, T Hollis 4, P Tulip 65*, T Kilby 24*, Extras 9

A Luxton 12-3-51-4, G Boulton 9-1-40-3, A Gledhill 4-1-21-0, J Best 1.5-0-17-0

Batting first Steeton 1st XI had an excellent opening stand of 72 runs scored at a brisk pace, with Aussie Hagan Shakespeare (43) falling just short of his 50, and Chris Meehan a steadier 36 runs. Hagan scored his 43 runs from 40 deliveries with 2 sixes & 5 fours, and Chris Meehan faced 39 balls for his 36 runs, which included 4 boundaries. But after such a solid start Collingham changed tactics and Steeton struggled as Collingham bowled their slower bowlers. After their fine opening stand Steeton collapsed and could only set a meagre target of 133 runs all out in 41.4 overs. Andrew Luxton (13) and John Akrigg (10) were the only other batsmen to reach double figures, as Collingham’s Toby Jacklin took 8 wickets for 42 runs from 18 overs.

Following Collingham’s policy Steeton opened with slow leg-spin bowler Andrew Luxton, and skipper Gary Boulton’s medium pace swing. The policy was initially successful as Steeton made early inroads into the Collingham batting, and reduced them to 7 wickets down with only 45 runs on the board. Andrew Luxton took 4 wickets for 51 runs from 12 overs, and Gary Boulton took 3 wickets for 40 runs from 9 overs. However a fine 8th wicket stand between Tulip (65*) and Kilby (24*) saw Collingham home with 7 wickets down. Collingham reached 135 runs for 7 wickets in 26.5 overs, and so Steeton must once again leave empty-handed. With Green Lane managing 6 points Steeton now are 13 points from safety, and seem to be leaving it very late to escape the drop to the 2nd division.

Steeton 371-6 in 50 overs

C Meehan 69, H Shakespeare 88, A Luxton 39, N Spragg 0, J Akrigg 67, J Higginson 6, J Best 49*, G Boulton 18*, Extras 35

N Britton 12-0-79-3, N Allitt 15-0-109-1, O Halliday 4-0-40-0, S Crosby 18-0-99-2, B McCormick 1-0-11-0

Green Lane 371-6 in 50 overs

S Hargreaves 34, P Atkinson 0, V Mahajan 151*, D Whittaker 112, B McCormick 12, O Halliday 0, R Britton 28, A Pickup 11*, Extras 23

J Best 16-0-90-4, S Pearson 9-0-63-0, A Luxton 5-0-44-1, P Hardwick 8-0-69-0, G Boulton 7-0-50-0, H Shakespeare 5-0-40-0

Wow…what an incredible match! It is difficult to know where to start to describe this festival of runs. In this must-win match, Steeton batted first having lost the toss, and Green Lane must have been regretting their decision as Steeton’s openers amassed a magnificent partnership of 162 runs in 22 overs. Hagan Shakespeare top-scored for Steeton with 88 runs scored from 78 deliveries, with 4 sixes and 8 fours, and his opening partner Chris Meehan faced 68 balls to score his 69 runs, which included 11 boundaries. Andrew Luxton continued the great work with 39 runs from 40 deliveries with 7 fours, and with the fielders spread around the boundary the run-fest continued with John Akrigg facing only 53 balls to score an excellent 67 runs with 1 six & 10 fours. John shared a new Club record 6th wicket stand of 118 runs with Jon Best, who scored an unbeaten 49* runs from only 44 balls, with 1 six & 4 fours. Skipper Gary Boulton had a cameo innings of 18* runs not out from just 7 deliveries, with 2 fours & a massive six off the last ball of the innings.

At the lunch break Steeton must have felt that they had done enough to stave-off the immediate threat of relegation, as they had scored 371 runs for 6 wickets in their 50 overs. Steeton’s openers had almost broken the Club record of 168 runs for their opening stand, and the side had almost scored the largest total for the Club 374-3 set in 1999. Steeton must also have been pleased with the start of the Green Lane reply, as they removed both openers with just 42 runs on the board – both caught by Hagan Shakespeare. However there followed a 3rd wicket stand of 192 runs between two Green Lane batsmen, who both finished with centuries to their name: Mahajan (151*) and Whittaker (112). They took the match away from Steeton, until Whittaker skied a catch that was well taken by Paul Hardwick running backwards. Further catches by John Akrigg, taken low running in from the boundary, & by keeper Julian Higginson brought the game to a close finale – with Green Lane favourites! As the match approached a frantic climax Julian Higginson and Paul Hardwick combined to run out another batter. Jon Best was bowling fast and he took 4 wickets for 90 runs from 16 overs, and the other bowler to collect a wicket was Andrew Luxton (1-44). A good last over by Paul Hardwick meant the match went to the last ball, but a scrambled single meant this unbelievable match finished as a Tie! Green Lane had also finished with 371 runs for the loss of 6 wickets in their 50 overs. The bad news is that both sides collect 3 points, which mean that with 2 matches to go Steeton 1st XI are now certain of relegation to the 2nd division. This match has set a new league record for the highest aggregate number of runs – 742 runs scored in 100 overs!

Steeton 169-8 in 50 overs

C Meehan 1, H Shakespeare 0, A Luxton 2, N Spragg 14, J Akrigg 57, J Best 14, S Pearson 37, G Boulton 0, A Gledhill 10*, A Hardwick 12*, Extras 22

D Mather 14-1-48-4, M Shires 4-1-21-1, S Dayma 11-2-30-2, T Grey 10-4-11-0, J Shires 11-2-48-1

Adel 125 a/o in 37.1 overs

J Francas 35, P Coughlin 11, S Howie 12, D Standring 3, S Dayma 10, N Sweetman 0, M Robinson 15, T Grey 4, D Mather 13, M Shires 0, J Shires 10*, Extras 12

J Best 3-1-17-0, S Pearson 8.1-0-22-3, A Luxton 8-1-38-2, G Boulton 10-1-26-3, A Gledhill 8-3-16-2

When it no longer matters Steeton 1st XI have produced a fine team performance and beaten championship contenders Adel by 44 runs. Asked to bat first Steeton were off to a poor start with 3 wickets down and just 8 runs on the board, but a solid 14 runs by Neil Spragg steadied the innings. John Akrigg top-scored with a battling 57 runs scored from 104 deliveries with 1 six & 7 fours. John shared a 6th wicket partnership of 63 runs with Stephen Pearson, who took 75 balls to score his 37 runs, which included 5 boundaries. Jon Best scored 14 runs, before Alex Gledhill (10*) & Adam Hardwick (12*) shared a valuable undefeated 9th wicket stand of 23 runs. On a difficult track Steeton had scored 169 runs for the loss of 8 wickets in 50 overs.

In reply Adel lost wickets regularly as Steeton bowled well and took their catches. Under 15 keeper Gabe Manthorp on his 1st XI debut was inspirational as he collected 2 catches, and he was proud to be compared to 2nd XI talisman Dave Cook. In fact all 10 of the Adel batsmen were caught out, with Alex Gledhill taking 3 catches, Stephen Pearson taking 2 catches, and a catch each for Andrew Luxton, Hagan Shakespeare & Neil Spragg. All the bowlers bowled well with 3 wickets each for opening bowler Stephen Pearson (3-22) and skipper Gary Boulton (3-26), and 2 wickets each for spin-bowlers Alex Gledhill (2-16) & Andrew Luxton (2-38). Adel were all out for 125 runs in 37.1 overs and Steeton come away with all 6 points, which has lifted them off the bottom position in the league.

Kirkstall Educational 277 a/o in 49.3 overs

A Chapman 102, R Sutton 51, C Abraham 9, A Siddall 9, J Capper 19, S Harrison 3, R Caddy 6, S Hudson 12, O Metcalfe 0, J Siddall 47, M Hodgson 4*, Extras 16

J Best 7-0-57-0, S Pearson 8.3-3-54-2, A Gledhill 18-2-82-3, G Boulton 16-2-73-4

Steeton 231-8 in 50 overs

C Meehan 25, H Shakespeare 4, A Luxton 58, J Best 6, J Akrigg 57, J Procter 16, G Boulton 33, S Pearson 17, A Gledhill 6*, A Hardwick 6*, Extras 5

S Hudson 14-1-55-0, M Hodgson 11-1-68-3, J Capper 14-1-58-3, A Siddall 11-1-47-2

Kirkstall won the toss and chose to bat first on the ‘371’ wicket of 2 weeks ago. They had a fine opening stand of 85 runs before Sutton (51) was well caught on the extra cover boundary by Aussie Hagan Shakespeare from the bowling of skipper Gary Boulton. His opening partner Chapman (102) was the last man out as he chopped a ball from Stephen Pearson (2-54) onto his own wickets. Despite an excellent start, Kirkstall were well restricted in the middle of their innings with Gary Boulton’s swing bowling collecting 4 wickets for 73 runs from 16 overs, and the left-arm spin of Alex Gledhill collecting 3 wickets for 82 runs from 18 overs. Kirkstall lost wickets regularly until J Siddall (47) put on a solid 9th wicket partnership of 78 runs with Chapman, but Kirkstall were all out in the last over of their innings having scored 277 runs from 49.3 overs. On the whole Steeton had taken their catches well, with 2 catches for Andrew Luxton & a single catch each for John Akrigg, Hagan Shakespeare, Stephen Pearson, & Adam Hardwick. Gary Boulton also managed a sharp run-out as he deflected a ball hit back at him onto the wickets to run out the batsman backing-up.

In reply Steeton lost Aussie Hagan Shakespeare (4) early, before his opening partner Chris Meehan (25) shared a 2nd wicket stand of 54 runs with top-scorer Andrew Luxton (58). Andrew’s 58 runs came at a ‘run-a-ball’ from 58 deliveries, and included 1 six & 10 fours. Jon Best (6) went cheaply, but John Akrigg finished the season well with another half-century. John faced 73 balls to score his 57 runs, which included 2 sixes & 7 fours. James Procter chipped in with 16 runs, Stephen Pearson with 17 runs, and Gary Boulton smashed a six & 5 fours as he scored 33 runs from just 31 deliveries. With the ¾ target comfortably reached it was left to Alex Gledhill (6*) and Adam Hardwick (4*) to bat out for the draw. Steeton reached 231 runs for the loss of 8 wickets and so had to settle for a (2-4) losing draw. They finish in 10th position in the league and are relegated, so must look to bounce straight back into the top flight next season.

Bilton 231 a/o in 49.2 overs

A Wharton 84, T Perry 7, S Collins 86, J Ford 1, Scroucher 0, L Mallinson 13, M Tyler 4, S Laurence 0, C Cole 15, B Lambert 0, K Morrison 0*, Extras 21

D Wynn 7-1-28-0, P Hardwick 16.2-2-55-6, D Cook 9-4-32-0, M Hagyard 3-0-35-0, T Stead 5-0-30-0, C Meehan 9-3-36-2

Steeton 232-4 in 44.4 overs

M Wilson 31, C Meehan 70, D Robinson 25, J Higginson 27, M Thomas 29*, R Wynn 41*, Extras 9

M Tyler 7-1-21-0, K Morrison 4-1-28-0, C Cole 17-2-75-1, S Laurence 13-0-64-2, S Croucher 2.4-0-31-0, S Collins 1-0-6-0

The Steeton 2nd XI juggernaut started this season in the same manner as it finished last season – with a resounding win – Bilton being the recipients. Bilton batted first and after a great start that saw them reach 189 runs before losing their 2nd wicket, they crashed to 231 runs all out in 49.2 overs. Paul Hardwick was in great form and collected 6 wickets for 55 runs from 16.2 overs. Chris Meehan took 2 wickets for 36 runs from 9 overs. Keeper Julian Higginson took 2 catches & there were 2 runs outs.

In reply Steeton’s batsmen were all ‘in the runs’, but a fine 70 runs from 89 deliveries with 1 six & 9 fours by Chris Meehan was the highlight. Chris opened the innings with Mick Wilson, who scored 31 runs from 32 deliveries with 3 sixes before he was run out with the score on 43 runs. David Robinson was the next to go for 25 runs from 54 deliveries with 3 fours, having shared a 75 run 2nd-wicket partnership with Chris Meehan. Julian Higginson was the next out with the score on 149 runs, having scored 25 runs from 34 deliveries with 4 boundaries. Opener Chris Meehan was the only other Steeton batsmen to lose his wicket with a top-scoring 70 runs with the score on 161 runs. An unbeaten 5th wicket stand of 71 runs between Matthew Thomas (29*) and skipper Robert Wynn (41*) saw Steeton overhauled the Bilton total. Matthew Thomas had scored his 29* runs from 33 balls faced with 1 six and 3 fours; Robert Wynn had scored his 41* runs from just 27 deliveries with 1 six and 7 fours. Steeton finished on 232 runs for the loss of 4 wickets in 44.4 overs to record a comfortable win by 6 wickets and collect all 6 points.

Rawdon 304-9 in 50 overs

C Walsh 34, M Windle 118, D Williamson 34, N Waite 16, C Boden 17, T Sumpner 23, M Longley 27, M McCallum 5, P Smith 0, I Vinall 1*, Extras 27

D Wynn 18-1-110-4, M Hagyard 5-0-28-0, C Meehan 2-0-13-0, D Cook 6-0-37-0, T Stead 6-2-22-1, Lee Spragg 13-0-75-3

Steeton 231 a/o in 48.2 overs

D Cook 29, C Meehan 89, D Robinson 32, J Higginson 6, M Thomas 9, R Wynn 7, Lee Spragg 12. P Barrett 15, D Wynn 9, M Hagyard 13, T Stead 0*, Extras 10

J Hill 13.2-2-63-2, M Longley 13-0-60-2, N Waite 18-3-66-6, D Wilkinson 4-0-32-0

The Steeton 2nd XI juggernaut stalled against a much strengthened Rawdon side. Asked to bat first on a flat Steeton track, Rawdon amassed an impressive 304 runs for 9 wickets from 50 overs, thanks largely to opener Windle, who scored 118 runs. David Wynn took 4 wickets, with his 18 overs costing 110 runs. Lee Spragg picked up 3 wickets and his 13 overs went for 75 runs. The other wicket taker was Tom Stead (1-22). Phil Barrett took 2 catches and Chris Meehan a further one, and the fielding point went to Tom Stead.

Steeton’s reply was well on track for a memorable victory, with opener Dave Cook (29) the first to fall with the score on 54 runs, and then David Robinson (32) and Chris Meehan (89)  took the score to 147 runs before David Robinson fell to a smart catch. David Cook had scored his 29 runs from 42 deliveries with 3 fours. David Robinson’s 32 runs came from 42 balls faced with 5 boundaries. Top-scorer was Chris Meehan, who scored a superb 89 runs from 80 deliveries with 15 fours, but when he was out with the score on 163 runs the flow of the innings swung back in favour of Rawdon. At the 25 over stage Steeton were 147 runs for 2 wickets, and on course for victory, but a series of low scores in the middle order meant the 75% score of 228 became a more reasonable target. Lee Spragg scored 12 runs, Phil Barrett scored 15 runs and Matthew Hagyard scored 13 runs as Steeton successfully passed the three-quarter score, and looked to bat out the draw. However they were unable to survive, and finished 231 runs all out in 48.2 overs, to lose by 73 runs.

Steeton 314-8 in 50 overs

M Wilson 149, D Cook 34, D Robinson 19, J Higginson 24, M Thomas 9, R Wynn 5, L Spragg 23, D Wynn 23, M Hagyard 13*, P Hardwick 3*, Extras 12

F Lak 9-0-63-0, O White 14-0-76-3, F Iqbal 11-0-73-1, M Singleton 8-1-39-1, A Karim 8-0-54-3

North Leeds 211-9 in 50 overs

S Hussain 1, G Wales 43, P Philips 5, S West 0, A Stevens 74, M Singleton 27, N Bull 46*, F Lak 0, O White 0, F Iqbal 0, A Karim 4*, Extras 11

D Wynn 9-0-40-1, P Hardwick 16-4-55-6, M Hagyard 4-0-22-0, D Cook 9-0-34-1, P Akrigg 9-1-33-1, L Spragg 3-0-22-0

Scoring a massive 314 runs for 8 wickets the Steeton 2nd XI juggernaut had a convincing 5-1 winning draw at home to North Leeds, who finished with 9 wickets down. Steeton’s batting was led by Mick Wilson scored a magnificent 149 runs from 125 deliveries with 4 sixes and 22 fours. Mick shared an opening stand of 90 runs with Dave Cook who scored 34 runs from 38 balls faced with 5 boundaries. Julian Higginson scored 24 runs, Lee Spragg & David Wynn both scored 23 runs, David Robinson scored 19 runs and Matthew Hagyard scored an unbeaten 13* runs.

The North Leeds reply was struggling as they lost their first 3 wickets with only 17 runs on the board, but 74 runs by Stevens steadied the collapse and despite 6 wickets (all clean bowled!) from Paul Hardwick they were able to bat out for a losing draw. Paul’s 6 wickets came from 16 overs at the expense of 55 runs. The other bowlers with a wicket apiece were David Wynn (1-40), Dave Cook (1-34) and Phil Akrigg (1-33). Paul Hardwick also took a catch and Dave Cook collected a return catch from his own bowling. Dave Cook and Matthew Hagyard were awarded a fielding point each. North Leeds closed with 211 runs on the board for the loss of 9 wickets after their 50 overs, and having dominated this fixture Steeton collect 5 points from a winning draw.

Bardsey 105 a/o in 34.2 overs

S Hills 5, P Falnery 17, M Ford 0, C Oliver 5, A Whitely 54*, A Martin 5, M Wales 1, D Stott 0, J Hughes 1, Extras 17

D Wynn 8-0-39-1, P Hardwick 5-2-6-0, P Akrigg 9-2-23-3, M Hagyard 7-2-15-0, D Cook 5.2-1-12-4

Steeton 41-0 in 4.4 overs

M Wilson 12*, D Cook 24*, Extras 5

C Oliver 2.4-0-26-0, M Ford 2-0-12-0

In a rain affected match the Steeton 2nd XI juggernaut bowled out the 9 men of Bardsey for 105 runs. Dave Cook was in devastating form with the ball as he collected 4 wickets for 12 runs from 5.2 overs. Bardsey’s top batsmen had been removed by Phil “The Legend” Akrigg, who took 3 wickets for 23 runs from 9 overs. David Wynn (1-39) took the other wicket to fall. Dave Cook collected a return catch from his own bowling and Mick Wilson took a nice catch to earn himself a fielding point, with Matthew Hagyard also being awarded another fielding point. Bardsey’s total would have been embarrassing but for a fine innings of 54* by Whiteley. Rain before the start of play had reduced this to a 38 over match, but Bardsey’s depleted side were all out for 105 runs in 34.2 overs.

Further rain during the lunch break reduced Steeton’s reply to just 16 overs, with the required total being adjusted to 41 runs. Having tormented Bardsey with the ball Dave Cook opened the innings and smashed 5 fours in a quickfire unbeaten innings of 24* runs from 17 deliveries. Dave’s opening partner Mick Wilson faced just 12 balls & hit 2 boundaries in an unbeaten 12* runs. Together they made short work of the reduced total, which they reached in 4.4 overs. They now travel to Illingworth in the 2nd round fixture on 20th May.

Steeton 96 a/o in 41.2 overs

M Wilson 5, J Procter 16, D Robinson 15, J Higginson 1, D Cook 0, M Thomas 36, R Wynn 4, L Spragg 4, D Wynn 7, M Hagyard 4, P Hardwick 1*, Extras 3

R Halloran 9-3-20-2, K Pullen 17-4-39-4, M Wilkinson 12-1-30-2, M Gray 3.2-2-4-2

Otley 100-9 in 44 overs

C Smith 35, G Wolfenden 9, J Brough 0, C Davey 2, M Wilkinson 0, A Chaplin 3, R Halloran 2, M Gray 3, P Nickleson 13, B Leaning 12*, K Pullen 1*, Extras 20

D Wynn 13-3-40-3, P Hardwick 18-7-31-2, D Cook 13-5-15-4

Steeton lost the toss and were asked to bat first on a ‘sticky dog’ at Otley – whose excellent covers had clearly not been utilised. Steeton struggled and were all out for just 96 runs in 41.2 overs, which would have been more embarrassing but for a fine innings of 36 runs by Matthew Thomas, scored from 74 deliveries with 1 six and 4 fours. The only other batsmen to reach double figures were James Procter (16) and David Robinson (15).

Despite so few runs on the board the bowlers and fielders put up a good performance, and it was down to Otley’s last pair of batsmen with a stand of 18 runs to see them home. Dave Cook was in fine form with the ball, taking 4 wickets for 15 runs from 13 overs. David Wynn claimed 3 wickets for 40 runs from 13 overs and Paul Hardwick took 2 wickets for 31 runs from 18 overs. The bowlers were well supported in the field with catches for ‘keeper Julian Higginson, James Procter, Matthew Thomas & Paul Hardwick. Otley scored 100 runs for 9 wickets in 44 overs to take all 6 points, as the Steeton 2nd XI juggernaut lost by 1 wicket and leave with no points.

Steeton 213-7 in 48 overs

D Cook 42, T Stead 34, D Robinson 44, J Higginson 9, M Thomas 2, R Wynn 54*, L Spragg 6, D Wynn 1, J Emmott 7*, Extras 14

D Fisher 4-0-33-0, M McLelland 20-1-95-3, M Clegg 10-3-34-2, R Rhodes 9-1-27-2, R Broadley 5-1-11-0

Ilkley 181-7 in 48 overs

P Sant 38, R Bradley 20, R Rhodes 55*, J Warde 11, D Bott 23, M McLelland 8, D Fisher 1, P Dolsen 4, B Button 0*, Extras 21

D Wynn 8-2-22-1, M Hagyard 2-0-13-0, J Emmott 5-2-26-0, P Akrigg 17-4-49-3, D Cook 16-3-53-1

In a match reduced by the rain to 48 overs a-side, the Steeton 2nd XI juggernaut was again in good order as it managed a 4-2 winning draw against Ilkley. Batting first Steeton’s top order all batted well, with Dave Cook scoring 42 runs from 41 deliveries with 2 sixes and 6 fours. Dave shared an opening partnership of 76 runs with Tom Stead, who scored 34 runs from 46 balls faced with 6 boundaries. At No3 David Robinson scored 44 runs from 54 balls with 7 fours, and skipper Robert Wynn played a fine “captain’s innings”, with an unbeaten 54* runs from 67 deliveries with 1 six and 4 fours. On a difficult track Steeton had scored 213 runs for 7 wickets in their 48 overs.

Ilkley’s reply was going well as they coasted to 59 runs in the first 12 over before losing their first wicket. The introduction of the ‘Legend’ that is Phil Akrigg was the turning point, as Phil & Dave Cook tied-up the scoring rate, and Phil collected 3 wickets for 49 runs from 17 overs. Dave Cook took 1 wicket for 53 runs from 16 overs, and David Wynn took 1 wicket for 22 runs from 8 overs. There were 2 smart run-outs by Dave Cook & Tom Stead, and catches for ‘keeper Julian Higginson & David Robinson. Having passed the ¾ point Ilkley looked uncertain whether to risk a final assault, and settled for a 2-4 losing draw. Ilkley finished 32 runs short with 181 runs for 7 wickets scored from their 48 overs. Steeton collect 4 points from this encounter and are starting to progress up the league table.

Steeton 159-9 in 45 overs

M Wilson 19, D Cook 27, D Robinson 1, J Higginson 70*, M Thomas 5, R Wynn 1, L Spragg 0, D Wynn 0, M Hagyard 6, R Suri 0, P Akrigg 3*, Extras 27

L Kelly 6-0-36-0, S Lees 9-1-26-0, T Conway 6-1-15-2, J Moorhouse 9-2-13-3, M Sewell 5-1-15-1, R Lockley 4-1-23-3, A Robertshaw 6-2-19-0

Illingworth 125 a/o in 42.2 overs

V Brooksby 2, G Hall 6, O Brooksby 7, T Conway 1, M Sewell 10, J Moorhouse 17, R Hargreaves 26, S Lees 40*, L Kelly 2, R Lockley 4, A Robertshaw 0, Extras 10

D Wynn 6-1-12-1, R Suri 5-0-13-2, D Robinson 8-1-23-2, L Spragg 8-1-16-1, P Akrigg 8-1-26-1, D Cook 7.2-0-30-2

The Steeton 2nd XI’s innings started comfortably with the opening partnership contributing 60 runs, before Dave Cook was caught for 27 runs, scored from 50 balls faced with 4 boundaries. Dave’s opening partner Mick Wilson followed soon after with the score on 67 runs. Mick had scored 19 runs from 47 deliveries with 3 fours. Then ‘collapse’ – as next 7 wickets fell while adding only a further 38 runs, with only Julian Higginson from the top-order remaining. Steeton were looking in great trouble as last man Phil Akrigg went to the middle, but Phil’s dogged determination helped Steeton from 105 runs for the loss of 9 wickets to 159 runs for 9 wickets in their 45 overs. Although he only contributed 3 runs the experienced Phil Akrigg helped Julian Higginson with a fantastic last wicket unbeaten stand of 54 runs. Julian Higginson was masterful as he scored an unbeaten 70* runs from 104 deliveries with 1 six and 7 fours.

This proved too many for Illingworth who lost wickets regularly and were all out for 125 runs in 42.2 overs. All the Steeton bowlers performed well, and none finished wicketless. On debut young Ross Suri took 2 wickets for 13 runs from 5 overs, and there were 2 wickets apiece for David Robinson (2-23) and Dave Cook (2-30). David Wynn (1-12), Lee Spragg (1-16) & Phil Akrigg (1-26) took 1 wicket each. Skipper Robert Wynn took 2 catches and there was a catch each for keeper Julian Higginson & Matthew Thomas. The Steeton 2nd XI juggernaut won by 34 runs and so progresses to the 3rd Round of the Birtwhistle Cup, where they travel to Thackley on 17th June.

Steeton 115 a/o in 42.5 overs

D Cook 21, T Stead 43, D Robinson 9, J Higginson 18, M Thomas 1, R Wynn 3, L Spragg 9*, D Wynn 3, M Hagyard 2, R Suri 0, P Akrigg 0, Extras 6

M Hogg 21.5-7-38-3, A Hart 7-3-25-1, H Driver 5-0-33-1, C Wintersgill 9-4-13-4

Harden 106 a/o in 44.5 overs

M Riley 31, M Portlock 9, C Wintersgill 9, D Dawson 29, S Batesman 8, J Leng 2, S Gardener 7, J Bailey 4, A Hart 0, N Hogg 0*, H Driver 0, Extras 7

D Wynn 5-2-20-2, R Suri 5-0-24-0, P Akrigg 14.5-9-30-2, T Stead 1-0-8-0, D Cook 16-12-15-3, M Hagyard 3-0-4-0

The Steeton 2nd XI juggernaut pulled off a quite remarkable win at Harden. Batting first Steeton collapsed from 67 runs for 2 wickets after 20 overs to 115 runs all out in 42.5 overs. Steeton’s opening batsmen put on a solid 38 runs, before Dave Cook was out for 21 runs. Dave’s opening partner, Tom Stead continued to score well and was finally out for a career best 43 runs, scored from 90 deliveries with 8 boundaries. The only other Steeton batter to reach double figures was Julian Higginson (18), but when Julian was out with the score standing at 77 runs for 3 wickets, the final 7 wickets could only add a further 38 runs. On a track showing a little uneven bounce and taking spin, 150 runs would have been a ‘par’ score, but at lunch Harden were certainly in command of this match.

Harden’s reply also started well, but thanks to the experienced bowling combination of Dave Cook & Phil Akrigg, their collapse was even more dramatic. Dave Cook was magnificent against his old club, bowling 16 overs with an incredible 12 maidens and taking 6 wickets while only conceding 15 runs. Phil Akrigg took 2 wickets for just 30 runs from 14.5 overs, and David Wynn also took 2 wickets for 20 runs from 5 overs. Harden were coasting to victory at 93 runs for 3 wickets, but great bowling backed-up by efficient fielding meant Harden finished 106 runs all out in 44.5 overs. Keeper Julian Higginson took a catch and a stumping, Lee Spragg took 1 catch and father & son Robert & David Wynn took a catch each. Steeton had snatched victory from the jaws of defeat, and this confidence booster mean Steeton win by 9 runs and collect 6 points and make good progress up the league table.

Guiseley 178 a/o in 47 overs

A Bell 30, C Fraser 1, G Taylor 18, C Davey 8, S Yeates 19, S Dickinson 13, N Fraser 28, A Perring 38, J Davey 0, R Butterfield 10, J Bridson 1*, Extras 12

D Wynn 10-1-40-4, R Suri 5-1-20-0, M Hagyard 4-0-18-1, T Stead 5-1-21-1, D Robinson 6-1-14-1, D Cook 9-3-26-0, P Akrigg 8-2-34-3

Steeton 183-6 in 49.5 overs

D Cook 7, T Stead 42, D Robinson 11, J Higginson 97*, M Thomas 3, R Wynn 11, P Barrett 0, D Wynn 1*, Extras 10

A Perring 15.5-2-51-2, J Bridson 11-2-33-2, S Dickinson 7-2-20-0, A Bell 9-0-38-2, R Rutherfield 7-1-31-0

The Steeton 2nd XI juggernaut (aka the ‘truck of luck’) was too powerful for Guiseley as they knocked-off 178 runs to win by 4 wickets. Having been all out for just 58 runs last week, Guiseley’s batting was understandably tentative, and on a good batting track they only managed to score 178 runs all out in 47 overs. For Guiseley their opener Bell (30) and late-order hitter Perring (38) along with skipper Fraser (28) made the major contributions with the bat. Steeton’s bowlers were all excellent, but David Wynn was the pick with 4 wickets for 40 runs from 10 overs. Phil ‘The Legend’ Akrigg moved closer to his 1,000th Steeton wicket with 3 more wickets for 34 runs from 8 overs. Phil has now taken 998 wickets for the Club and so just needs 2 more for his personal milestone. The other bowlers to chip in with a wicket each were; Matthew Hagyard (1-18), Tom Stead (1-21) and David Robinson (1-14). Keeper Julian Higginson took 2 catches, Dave Cook took a nicely judged catch in the covers and Matthew Thomas took an excellent catch diving forwards to remove Guiseley’s danger-man, Taylor.

Steeton’s reply was led by Julian Higginson, who batted masterfully for his unbeaten 97* runs, which came from 132 deliveries and included 13 boundaries. Julian shared a 3rd wicket partnership of 76 runs with young opener Tom Stead, who batted superbly for his 42 runs, scored from 90 balls faced with 2 sixes and 4 fours. David Robinson and skipper Robert Wynn both chipped in with 11 runs each, as Steeton passed the Guiseley total with 3 overs and 4 wickets to spare. Steeton scored 183 runs for 6 wickets in 49.5 overs to collect all 6 points. This win mean Steeton 2nd XI progress up to 3rd place in Division 1.

Collingham & Linton 150 a/o in 36.4 overs

C Powell 22, K Shrimpton 13, S James 5, P Schofield 30, M Booth 3, C Mosley 29*, D Moss 16, A Robinson 0, B Keivey 8, W Hannam 11, R Taylor 3, Extras 10

D Wynn 7.4-1-22-2, R Suri 5-0-20-0, T Stead 5-1-30-3, D Robinson 6-1-22-2, D Cook 6-1-17-0, P Akrigg 7-1-33-3

Steeton 153-1 in 25.2 overs

D Cook 64*, T Stead 23, D Robinson 52*, Extras 14

A Robinson 4-0-37-0, K Shrimpton 6-1-23-0, S James 3-0-22-1, W Hannam 4-0-21-0, D Moss 3-0-20-0, P Schofield 3-1-3-0, B Keivey 2-0-16-0, R Taylor 0.2-0-4-0

The Steeton 2nd XI juggernaut did not get the best of starts to this season, but it is now starting to move smoothly through the gears. This performance was by no means ‘top-gear’ but Collingham were still crushed by 9 wickets. Choosing to bat first on an excellent batting track on a hot sunny day, Collingham must have hoped to be scoring around the 300 run mark. Their batsmen all came in expecting to be able to crash the bowling about, before they had got themselves established. One after another they were sent back to the pavilion, and their top-score was 30 runs by Schofield. On a near-perfect batting track Collingham had been dismissed  for just 150 runs all out in 36.4 overs. The skipper of our U15s, Tom Stead took 3 wickets for 30 runs in 5 overs & Phil ‘The Legend’ Akrigg took 3 wickets for 33 runs in 7 overs. Phil’s 3 wickets took him past the incredible landmark of 1,000 wickets at Steeton. David Robinson & David Wynn both bowled well, and collected 2 wickets each, with both bowlers conceding 22 runs. Keeper Julian Higginson interrupted his camping holiday, but with 4 catches & no byes conceded it was well worth it! Young Ross Suri judged 2 neat catches on the point boundary, and Phil Akrigg took a simple return catch from his own bowling. Ross Suri & Matthew Thomas were awarded a fielding point each.

Steeton’s batting reply was emphatic. Opener Dave Cook’s interruption of his camping holiday was worth it as he scored an unbeaten 64* runs from 76 deliveries with 1 six & 13 fours. Dave put on an opening stand of 55 runs with Tom Stead (23). At No3 David Robinson scored an unbeaten 52* runs from 59 deliveries with 8 boundaries. The 2 Davids put on an unbroken 2nd wicket stand of 98 runs to win the match for Steeton. Steeton scored at over 6 runs per over, and reached 153 runs for the loss of just 1 wicket in 25.2 overs. Steeton take away 6 points that maintains their challenge on the 1st division leaders.

Green Lane 176-7 in 50 overs

C Chaplin 21, C Elsworth 18, P Atkinson 60, L Bramham 41, M Ellis 15, J Slater 15, M Pollard 1, I Roberts 6*, M Slater 0*, Extras 5

D Wynn 11-4-26-1, R Suri 5-1-12-0, D Robinson 7-0-21-1, T Stead 4-1-23-0, D Cook 10-1-37-1, P Akrigg 7-0-29-0, L Spragg 6-0-27-3

Steeton 177-4 in 41.1 overs

D Cook 27, T Stead 13, D Robinson 63*, J Higginson 56, M Thomas 6, G Manthorp 4*, Extras 8

J Slater 6-0-41-0, M Ellis 9-1-29-2, M Slater 7-1-25-0, B Roberts 4-0-26-0, T Powell 11-1-28-2, M Pollard 4.1-1-20-0

The Steeton 2nd XI juggernaut brushed aside Green Lane as they knocked off 176 runs with 6 wickets and almost 9 overs to spare. Asked to bat first Green Lane scored quite slowly and had only reached 20 runs without loss after the first 10 overs. Keeper Julian Higginson caught both openers from the bowling of David Robinson (1-21) and David Wynn (1-26). Skipper Dave Cook (1-37)  took a sharp return catch from his own bowling to remove Green Lane’s top-scorer Atkinson (60). At the end of their innings Lee Spragg bowled a great spell, and collected 3 wickets for 27 runs from 6 overs. All Lee’s wickets fell to catches: 2 catches to Phil Barrett, who was awarded 2 fielding points, and 1 catch in the deep taken by Tom Stead, that also earned him a fielding point. Phil Barrett & Lee Spragg also combined well to run out the other Green Lane batsman. Green Lane had batted through their 50 overs and had lost just 7 wickets, but had been restricted to 176 runs.

Steeton’s reply was led by skipper Dave Cook, who hit 12 runs from the very first over! Dave’s opening partner Tom Stead (13) was the first out with the score on 30 runs. Dave Cook was the next man out after he had taken the score to 52 runs; Dave had scored 27 runs from 28 deliveries with 1 six & 4 fours. Julian Higginson put on a 3rd wicket stand of 96 runs with David Robinson – both batsmen scoring half-centuries. Julian scored 56 runs from 64 balls faced with 9 boundaries, before being rather harshly adjudged LBW. David Robinson top-scored with an unbeaten 63* runs, scored from 103 deliveries with 1 six & 6 fours. The winning runs were hit by Gabe Manthorp (4*) making his 2nd XI debut. Steeton had scored 177 runs for the loss of 4 wickets in 41.1 overs, and so won by 6 wickets and collect all 6 points on offer, which moves them into 2nd place in division 1.

Steeton 175-8 in 45 overs

M Wilson 55, D Cook 31, D Robinson 16, J Higginson 15, R Wynn 6, M Thomas 20*, L Spragg 13, D Wynn 0, M Hagyard 0, R Suri 1*, Extras 18

R Shah 9-2-32-2, A Boocock 9-2-28-1, S Khan 9-2-35-2, P Hall 9-0-38-1, A Wood 9-2-26-2

Thackley 155-8 in 45 overs

K Shields 7, J Hanby 49, J Brooksbank 23, P Naylor 24, A Wood 13, A Boocock 0, R Clayton 21*, M Hall 3, R Shah 0, S Khan 6*, Extras 9

D Wynn 5-0-28-0, R Suri 5-2-14-1, M Hagyard 5-2-13-0, L Spragg 8-0-38-3, D Cook 9-4-11-1, P Akrigg 9-4-23-1, D Robinson 4-0-20-2

Asked to bat first on an unpredictable track Steeton’s openers got them off to a great start with an opening stand of 68 runs before Dave Cook was out for 31 runs scored from 46 deliveries with 2 sixes and 2 fours. Dave’s opening partner was Mick Wilson, who went on to top-score with a fine half-century – Mick’s 55 runs came from 95 balls faced with 2 sixes and 5 fours. Matthew Thomas scored an unbeaten 20* runs, and the other batsmen to reach double figures were David Robinson (16), Julian Higginson (15) & Lee Spragg (13). The Steeton 2nd XI juggernaut had set a target of 175 runs for the loss of 8 wickets in their 45 overs.

In reply Thackley lost wickets regularly to some excellent Steeton bowling. Lee Spragg took 3 wickets for 38 runs from 8 overs, and David Robinson took 2 wickets for 20 runs from 4 overs. The bowlers to take a single wicket each were Ross Suri (1-14), Dave Cook (1-11) & Phil ‘The Legend’ Akrigg (1-23), who all bowled very tight spells. Ross Suri took 2 catches, including a return catch from his own bowling, Phil Akrigg took a catch and keeper Julian Higginson had 1 batsman stumped. Mick Wilson & Ross Suri were awarded a fielding point each. For Thackley Hanby scored 49 runs, but they were well restricted to 155 runs for 8 wickets in their 45 overs. Steeton win by 20 runs and so progress smoothly to the semi-final stages where they play Kirkstall Educational at home on 15 July.

Adel 168-9 in 50 overs

BT James 34, J Solts 0, J Stringer 61, M Robinson 18, B Hall 4, I Jones 18, I Bath 21*, J Pratt 0, A Schonfeld 0, R Munford 8, Extras 4

D Wynn 9-4-16-0, R Suri 5-2-6-1, L Spragg 9-0-35-0, T Stead 5-2-13-0, D Cook 11-0-45-2, P Akrigg 11-1-51-5

Steeton 169-6 in 45.2 overs

D Cook 3, T Stead 33, D Robinson 48, J Higginson 35*, M Thomas 1, R Wynn 8, L Spragg 0, P Barrett 34*, Extras 8

R Munford 5-0-23-0, J McGowan 6-0-25-1, J Solts 16.2-3-59-3, T James 11-3-28-2, M Robinson 4-1-12-0, A Schonfeld 3-0-15-0

The Steeton 2nd XI juggernaut continued their great winning streak with a 4 wicket defeat of Adel. Asked to bat first on a damp track Adel were very cautious in their batting and had only scored 33 runs after the first 20 overs. Opening bowler Ross Suri bowled a great spell of 5 overs which only conceded 6 runs as he collected 1 wicket. The damp track was ready made for Phil ‘The Legend’ Akrigg who took 5 wickets for 51 runs in a great spell of 11 overs that included a ‘hat-trick’. Dave Cook also bowled 11 overs and finished with 2 wickets for 45 runs. Skipper Robert Wynn ran out the other batsman, and also took a well judged catch. Phil Barrett added a further 2 catches to his season’s tally, and was awarded a fielding point. Matthew Thomas was also awarded a fielding point, and there were 2 stumpings for keeper Julian Higginson, as well as a catch for David Robinson. Adel finished with 168 runs for the loss of 9 wickets in 50 overs, thanks largely to Stringer (61).

In reply Steeton lost Dave Cook early, but there followed a 64 runs 2nd wicket stand between young Tom Stead (33) and top-scorer David Robinson (48). Tom Stead scored his 33 runs for 63 deliveries with 3 boundaries, before being rather controversially stumped. David Robinson’s innings deserved a half-century, but he had to settle for 48 runs, scored from 57 balls faced with 7 fours, before hitting a ‘long-hop’ into the hands of the fielder on the mid-wicket boundary. With 3 cheap wickets falling in the middle order Steeton found themselves at 116 runs for 6 wickets, and in some trouble. The dependable Julian Higginson (35*) shared a match-winning unbeaten 7th wicket partnership of 53 runs with Phil Barrett (34*). Julian’s 35* runs were scored from 73 deliveries with 4 boundaries, and Phil Barrett scored his 34* runs from 48 balls with 4 fours. Steeton had scored 169 runs for 6 wickets from 45.2 overs and have now won 5 league matches in a row. The 6 points they collect means they are now joint-leaders of division 1 with Otley.

Steeton 1pt

Kirkstall Educational 1pt

Persistent rain meant no play was possible, and it did not take long for both teams to realise that 1 point each was all that was available. This brings the Steeton 2nd XI juggernaut‘s 5-match winning streak to an end.

Steeton 228 a/o in 49.4 overs

M Wilson 18, J Procter 53, D Robinson 6, J Higginson 1, A Gledhill 47, D Cook 36, T Stead 4, L Spragg 37, D Wynn 0, R Wynn 9, P Akrigg 2*, Extras 15

P Fletcher 10-1-55-0, C Morley 24.4-6-92-8, K Morrison 5-1-4-0, A Warton 2-0-8-0, M Tyler 8-0-57-2

Bilton 114-8 in 50 overs

A Warton 0, J Ford 7, C Coates 14, L Mallinson 1, M Shaw 16, M Tyler 6, M Dawson 51, P Fletcher 7*, C Morley 0, K Morrison 1*, Extras 11

D Wynn 12-4-25-3, D Robinson 10-3-22-1, P Akrigg 13-4-17-3, T Stead 5-3-2-0, A Gledhill 5-0-23-1, L Spargg 2-2-0-0, D Cook 3-0-18-0

The Steeton 2nd XI juggernaut was too powerful for Bilton, and collected 5 points from a (5-1) winning draw. Batting first Steeton scored 228 runs all out in 49.4 overs, but they were unable to remove all the Bilton batsmen, who finished with 114 runs 8 wickets in 50 overs.  Steeton lost the toss and were asked to bat first on a damp track. Opening the innings James Procter was in fine form with a half-century on his return to the 2nd XI. James scored 53 runs from 82 deliveries with 1 six & 8 fours, and he shared an opening partnership of 59 runs with Mick Wilson, who chipped in with 18 runs. Another fine partnership was the 5th wicket stand of 65 runs between Alex Gledhill (47) and Dave Cook (36). Alex Gledhill scored his 47 runs from 57 balls faced, with 6 boundaries, while Dave Cook’s 36 runs came from just 34 deliveries with 1 six & 4 fours. James, Alex & Dave were all out LBW. Lee Spragg added some valuable late runs with a rapid 37 runs from only 23 balls, with 2 sixes & 5 fours, and he shared an impressive 9th wicket stand of 42 runs with skipper Robert Wynn (9). Lee was the last man out – stumped with 2 balls of the innings to go. For Bilton, Morley bowled throughout the innings and collected 8 wickets for 92 runs.

Bilton’s reply was stopped in its tracks by a great opening blast by David Wynn, who collected 3 wickets for 25 runs from 12 overs. Bilton were reduced to 26 runs with 4 wickets down, and survival became their priority. Steeton’s fielding at this stage lost the required intensity, and their bowling too lacked its earlier penetration. David Robinson (1-22) and Alex Gledhill (1-23) collected a wicket each, and there were nice catches for Mick Wilson and Tom Stead, but several miss-fields allowed easy runs. During this stage Bilton’s Dawson plundered 51 runs, which helped to salvage a point. In the last over Phil ‘The Legend’ Akrigg took 2 wickets in successive deliveries, with keeper Julian Higginson assisting in both with a stumping & a catch. Phil finished with excellent  figures of 3 wickets for 17 runs from 13 overs. Bilton hung on with 8 wickets down but had scored just 114 runs in their 50 overs – still 57 runs short of the ¾ score! Steeton had overpowered Bilton, but were unable to deliver the ‘coup-de-grâce’ and so had to settle for 5 points from a winning draw. Steeton have now moved to the top of the 1st division – 3 points clear of Otley, who only managed 2 points.

Steeton 219-8 in 50 overs

M Wilson 75, C Meehan 10, D Robinson 18, A Greenwood 0, T Stead 50*, M Thomas 3, D Cook 38, L Spragg 0, R Wynn 13, R Suri 1*, Extras 11

J Hill 17-5-68-4, M Longley 18-1-53-2, R Griggs 8-2-45-1, N Waite 7-1-45-1

Rawdon 101 a/o in 41.4 overs

M Windle 6, D Weston 8, M McCallum 34, W Milner 4, P Sumpner 9, M Longley 9, I Vinall 14, N Waite 4, R Griggs 2, N Walker 0, J Hill 0*, Extras 11

R Suri 5-2-3-1, D Robinson 6-0-26-0, T Stead 5-3-9-2, L Spragg 7-0-25-0, P Akrigg 11-4-11-5, D Cook 7.4-2-18-2

Even without Julian Higginson, the Steeton 2nd XI juggernaut had a very strong side out, and were out for revenge for the surprise home defeat earlier in the season. Batting first Steeton scored 219 runs for 8 wickets in their 50 overs, with the dependable opener Mick Wilson top-scoring with 75 runs from 117 deliveries with 4 sixes & 6 fours. Our U15s skipper Tom Stead scored a maiden senior half-century – his unbeaten 50 runs coming from 52 balls faced with 6 boundaries. The experienced Dave Cook smashed 38 rapid runs from just 25 deliveries, with 2 sixes & 3 fours. The other batsmen to reach double figures were David Robinson (18), Robert Wynn (13) & Chris Meehan (10).

In reply Rawdon’s top batsmen were blown away by Steeton’s U15 pairing of Ross Suri, who bowled 5 overs and only conceded 3 runs while collecting 1 wicket, and Tom Stead, who bowled 5 overs and took 2 wickets at the cost of just 9 runs. (It is no wonder our U15s are top of their league!) Rawdon’s tail was then skittled by the more experienced pairing of Dave Cook (2-18), and of course Phil ‘the Legend’ Akrigg, who collected another 5-wicket haul. Phil bowled 11 overs and took his 5 wickets for just 11 runs! Steeton’s fielding was sharp, with a catch & a stumping for stand-in keeper Chris Meehan, and further fine catches for Matthew Thomas, Mick Wilson & Tom Stead. Matthew Thomas & Adam Greenwood were awarded fielding points. With only McCallum (34) making any real contribution, Rawdon felt the full weight of the juggernaut as they were all out for 101 runs in 41.4 overs. Steeton won by a convincing 118 runs and collect another 6 points, that keeps them as clear league leaders. With Otley only managing 4 points, Steeton now move 5 points clear at the top of the 1st division.

Steeton 1pt

North Leeds 1pt

Rained Off.

Steeton 92 a/o in 28.2 overs

M Wilson 11, T Stead 16, D Robinson 14, J Higginson 23, D Cook 0, R Wynn 10, A Greenwood 9, M Thomas 0, D Wynn 0, R Suri 2, P Akrigg 1*, Extras 6

J Audsley 6-2-10-1, L Mulligan 5-2-13-0, S Bedford 5.2-0-14-2, J Capper 6-0-38-1, C Stevenson 6-1-11-4

Kirkstall Educational 93-6 in 26.5 overs

P Martin 15, M Missett 10, P Bennet 32, R Caddy 11*, R Ashworth 4, S Bedford 0, J Capper 6, C Stevenson 6*, Extras 7

D Wynn 6-0-21-0, R Suri 4.5-1-16-0, P Akrigg 6-0-27-3, D Cook 6-0-10-2, T Stead 4-0-12-1

Steeton batted first in a match reduced to 30 overs each by rain. The top-order batsmen all made starts, but none were able to convert good starts into sizeable innings. Steeton had just 29 runs on the board and had lost both openers: Tom Stead for 16 runs & Mick Wilson for 11 runs. David Robinson soon followed for 14 runs, before Julian Higginson top-scored with just 23 runs, including 1 six & 3 fours. Skipper Robert Wynn (10) was the only other batter to reach double figures, as the Steeton 2nd XI juggernaut was skittled for a meagre 92 runs all out in 28.2 overs. Kirkstall’s Stevenson was in fine form with 4 wickets for 11 runs from 6 overs.

On a damp track Kirkstall too lost wickets regularly, with Phil ‘The Legend’ Akrigg taking 3 wickets for 27 runs from 6 overs, and Dave Cook bowling 6 miserly overs that only conceded 10 runs as he collected 2 wickets. But Tom Stead (1-12) took the only other wicket to fall as Kirkstall passed the Steeton target with 4 wickets & 3 overs to spare. Keeper Julian Higginson was in great form as he took 3 catches, and there were further catches for Dave Cook & Adam Greenwood. For Kirkstall, Bennet top-scored with 32 runs, as they reached 93 runs for 6 wickets in 26.5 overs. So it is Kirkstall who progress to the Birtwhistle Cup Final, and Steeton’s hopes of the ‘double’ is shattered.

Otley 79 a/o in 38.3 overs

A Chaplin 6, G Wolfenden 25, C Smith 5, C Davey 15, A Lazarus 1, J Brough 3, A Bailey 0, M Smith 8, P Nicholson 5, M Gray 0, K Pullan 2*, Extras 11

D Wynn 4-1-14-0, R Suri 6-2-11-0, P Hardwick 15.3-6-29-6, T Stead 6-3-6-2, P Akrigg 7-3-14-1

Steeton 83-2 in 28 overs

T Stead 52*, A Hardwick 1, D Robinson 22, J Higginson 8*, Extras 0

K Pullan 11-6-18-0, M Gray 7-4-17-1, A Lazarus 7-2-27-1, J Brough 3-0-21-0

After last week’s exit from the Birtwhistle Cup, the Steeton 2nd XI juggernaut returned to winning ways in emphatic style at Otley. Batting first Otley only scored 79 runs all out in 38.3 overs. Paul Hardwick was in devastating form as he clean bowled all of his 6 wickets for just 29 runs from 15.3 overs. Tom Stead bowled 6 overs that only conceded 6 runs as he collected 2 wickets, and Phil Akrigg (1-14) took the other wicket. Paul Hardwick also took a catch and Otley’s top-scorer Wolfenden (25) was run out by Dave Cook.

Steeton knocked-off the runs to win comfortably for the loss of just 2 wickets. Opener Tom Stead scored an fine unbeaten 52* runs from 71 deliveries with 10 boundaries, and David Robinson faced 53 balls for his 22 runs, which included 4 fours. Steeton reached 83 runs for the loss of 2 wickets in 28 overs to win by 8 wickets with 33 overs to spare, and so they collect all 6 points from this one-sided encounter.

Steeton 236-8 in 50 overs

T Stead 33, A Hardwick 4, D Robinson 100, J Higginson 16, M Thomas 6, L Spragg 15, D Cook 13, P Barrett 8, D Wynn 7*, Extras 34

M Coldwell 9-1-52-1, D Fisher 19-4-76-1, R Spivey 6-0-24-1, R Broadley 3-0-22-1, M Clegg 13-1-39-3

Ilkley 163-9 in 50 overs

P Sant 16, J Ward 51, R Broadley 6, N McMame 21, S Conner 1, P Dawson 10, D Fisher 22, R Spivey 0, M Clegg 6*, M Coldwell 2, W Spivey 0*, Extras 28

D Wynn 5-1-21-0, R Suri 4-1-16-0, T Stead 5-1-7-1, L Spragg 6-0-19-0, P Akrigg 16-4-48-5, D Cook 14-6-29-2

When top of the table play bottom of the league you can expect a thrashing, but Ilkley performed well under pressure and earned themselves a point as the Steeton juggernaut could only manage a (5-1) winning draw. Steeton lost the toss and were asked to bat first, and thanks to a great century by David Robinson they amassed 236 runs for the loss of 8 wickets in 50 overs. David’s 100 runs came from 135 deliveries & included 13 boundaries. Young opener Tom Stead had earlier scored 33 runs from 38 balls faced with 6 fours. The other batsmen to reach double figures were Julian Higginson (16), Lee Spragg (15) & skipper Dave Cook (13), with Ilkley’s Clegg (3-39) being the only bowler to take more than a single wicket.

Ilkley’s reply began steadily as they progressed to 39 runs in the first 10 overs before losing their first wicket. Steeton’s best bowler was Phil ‘the legend’ Akrigg, who skittled 5 of the Ilkley batsmen for 48 runs from 16 overs. Skipper Dave Cook bowled 14 tight overs that only conceded 29 runs as he took 2 wickets, including Ilkley’s top-scorer Ward (51) – who was one of two stumpings by keeper Julian Higginson. Tom Stead also bowled 5 tight overs that only conceded 7 runs, and he took a wicket with his very first delivery. David Wynn was excellent in the field and his great stop at cover, and throw to Phil Akrigg ran out the other Ilkley batsman. The old adage that catches win matches, and its corollary that dropping them does not help you win matches, was clearly evident as Steeton’s good ground-fielding was let down by frequent dropped chances. Lee Spragg took a comfortable catch at point, Ross Suri took a excellently judged high catch, and centurion David Robinson also pouched a catch. Ilkley hung on with 9 wickets down and were still 14 runs short of the ¾ score. Ilkley finished with 163 runs for the loss of 9 wickets in their 50 overs, and Steeton collect 5 points that keep them comfortably at the top of the table & heading for a 3rd successive championship.

Steeton 204-9 in 50 overs

M Wilson 18, A Hardwick 35, D Robinson 29, J Pearson 1, M Thomas 31, Z Pearson 8, L Spragg 1, D Wynn 7, R Suri 26*, C Lowe 15, P Akrigg 0*, Extras 33

M Hogg 13-4-45-2, J Bailey 6-2-24-0, R Falkingham 13-1-40-1, C Dawson 18-5-71-5

Harden 208-5 in 47.4 overs

M Riley 15, J Leng 27, A Rushworth 10, B Hinchcliffe 36, S Bateman 68*, M Portlock 14, R Falkingham 24*, Extras 14

D Wynn 10-2-42-1, R Suri 9.4-2-46-1, D Robinson 4-0-25-0, P Akrigg 13-2-44-1, L Spragg 11-0-38-2

With a much depleted side, the Steeton’s 2nd XI juggernaut lost at home to Harden. Steeton won the toss and batted first and scored 204 runs for 9 wickets in their 50 overs. Opener Adam Hardwick top-scored for Steeton with 35 runs scored from 62 deliveries with 8 boundaries, and he shared an opening stand of 51 runs with stand-in skipper Mick Wilson (18). David Robinson added another 29 runs to his season’s tally & Matthew Thomas batted carefully for his 31 runs from 68 balls, but Steeton were losing wickets regularly. At 157 runs for 8 wickets Steeton’s innings was looking quite meagre, but there were some late order heroics with an excellent ninth wicket stand of 47 runs between juniors Ross Suri (26*) & Callum Lowe (15). Both Ross & Callum made there career best senior score: Ross scored his unbeaten 26* runs from 15 deliveries with 4 boundaries, and Callum faced 9 balls for his 15 runs which included 2 fours. Steeton had not scored enough runs, but our juniors had given us a fighting chance. For Harden Dawson collected a 5-wicket haul.

Harden’s reply had series of consistent scores, with all their batsmen scoring into double figures. At 143 for 5 Steeton had turned the game slightly in their favour, but Harden’s skipper S Bateman (68*) had other ideas as he and R Falkingham put on 65 runs to win the game for Harden. The pick of the Steeton bowling was Lee Spragg, who bowled 11 tight overs that conceded 38 runs, as he took 2 wickets. Opening bowlers David Wynn (1-42) & Ross Ruri (1-46) collected a wicket each and Phil Akrigg (1-44) also added to his season’s tally. Stand-in keeper Matthew Thomas took 2 catches, and David Wynn took a return catch from his own bowling. Harden had scored 208 runs for the loss of 5 wickets in 47.4 overs, and the Steeton 2nd XI had suffered a rare defeat. No points mean the chasing pack move a little closer as the season draws to it’s conclusion.

Steeton 1pt

Guiseley 1pt

The Steeton and Guiseley players watched the persistent light drizzle until 4pm without even an opportunity to remove the covers. This match never got started, and both sides collect a single point each.

Collingham & Linton 212 a/o in 46.3 overs

C Powell 26, A Robinson 0, S James 72, P Schofield 0, K Shrimpton 7, D Sweeting 2, D Moss 74, M Booth 8, W Sweeting 5*, W Hannam 0, M Robinson 0, Extras 18

P Hardwick 12.3-2-59-4, R Suri 3-0-17-0, T Stead 5-1-23-1, D Cook 11-2-24-3, P Akrigg 15-4-77-2

Steeton 213-8 in 51.5 overs

M Wilson 21, T Stead 0, D Robinson 0, R Wynn 24, M Thomas 17, D Cook 48, L Spragg 68*, G Manthorp 0, P Hardwick 10, R Suri 5*, Extras 19

D Sweeting 23-3-107-5, W Sweeting 4-1-12-0, W Hannam 5-3-18-1, S James 17.5-6-50-0, P Schofield 2-0-13-0

Batting first Collingham scored a challenging 212 runs all out in 46.3 overs, with fine 70s by James (72) and Moss (74). Paul Hardwick was the pick of the bowlers as he polished off the Collingham tail-enders, and collected 4 wickets for 59 runs in 12.3 overs. The Collingham middle order had been decimated by Dave Cook who took 3 wickets as he bowled 11 miserly overs that only conceded 24 runs. The ‘Legend’, Phil Akrigg, had earlier shifted 2 of Collingham’s top-order batsmen in a spell of 2 wickets for 77 runs and Tom Stead (1-23) took the other wicket to fall. Mick Wilson took 2 catches and there were further catches for David Robinson, Tom Stead & Dave Cook.

At lunch Steeton were happy that Collingham’s excellent start had been restricted to a target not approaching the 300 run mark. Steeton’s reply had a disastrous start losing their top 3 batsmen with the score on 35 runs, with only Mick Wilson (21) making any runs. The innings was steadied by skipper Robert Wynn (24) and Matthew Thomas (17), but at 74 runs for the loss of 5 wickets the target was looking unattainable. In Steeton’s long batting line-up 5 wickets down just brought together the experienced pairing of Dave Cook (48) and Lee Spragg (68*), who shared a 6th wicket partnership of 60 runs. Dave scored his 48 runs from 57 deliveries with 2 sixes & 7 fours, and Lee faced 104 balls for his unbeaten 68* runs, which included 3 sixes & 7 fours. When Dave Cook was out with the score on 134 runs the target was still a long way off, and Collingham must have believed that victory would be theirs. Lee Spragg started to hit out and he shared an 8th wicket partnership of 49 runs with Paul Hardwick (10) and then an undefeated 9th wicket stand of 30 runs with Ross Suri (5*). Lee’s great innings had turned the match around and gave Steeton a remarkable victory, when defeat had seemed inevitable. For Collingham D Sweeting took 5 wickets for 107 runs from 23 overs. Collingham were so upset at losing from such a strong position that they were loathe to clap Lee Spragg off after the match, and few lingered long after the match. In this exciting finish Steeton had needed 2 of the overs that they had got by getting Collingham all out, as they reached 213 runs for the loss of 8 wickets in 51.5 overs. The Steeton 2nd XI juggernaut does not easily accept defeat, and had beaten Collingham by 2 wickets to collected all 6 points from this enthralling encounter. Our 2nd XI are now 8 points clear of 2nd placed Adel with 3 matches (including Adel) to play.

Green Lane 91 a/o in 44 over

C Elsworth 16, I Roberts 39, C Chaplin 2, J Pleasance 3, M Pollard 2, B Parker 0, B Roberts 6, M Ellis 13, M Slater 1, B Cousins 0*, T Powell 0, Extras 9

D Wynn 9-2-23-0, R Suri 4-1-9-0, T Stead 5-2-6-1, L Spragg 11-4-23-4, P Akrigg 13-7-17-3, D Cook 2-0-5-1

Steeton 94-1 in 26 overs

M Wilson 53*, T Stead 31, D Robinson 5*, Extras 5

M Ellis 7-2-17-0, M Slater 6-1-20-0, B Cousins 7-3-18-1, T Powell 6-0-36-0

Green Lane batted first on a slow & low wicket, and Steeton certainly had the bowlers to exploit the conditions. Lee Spragg was the pick of the bowlers with 4 wickets for 23 runs from 11 overs, and Phil ‘The Legend’ Akrigg bowling 13 miserly overs that only conceded 17 runs as he collected another 3 wickets to add to his seasons tally of 45. Dave Cook (1-5) & Tom Stead (1-6) also took a single wicket each as Green Lane were skittled for a mere 91 runs all out in 44 overs. For Steeton keeper Gabe Manthorp had a stumping, Matthew Thomas & Ross Suri took catches and Lee Spragg also took a return catch from his own bowling. Green Lane’s I. Roberts (39) was the only batsmen to show any resistance, until he was run out.

Steeton’s reply was emphatic as they knocked off  the meagre target for the loss of just 1 wicket, with opener Mick Wilson finishing with an unbeaten half-century. Mick scored 53* runs not out from 80 deliveries with 8 boundaries, and shared an opening stand of 66 runs with Tom Stead, who was bowled out for 31 runs scored from 61 balls faced with 6 boundaries. The Steeton juggernaut coasted to victory with 9 wickets and 30 overs to spare! Steeton had scored 94 runs for 1 wicket in 26 overs and the 6 points they collect mean they go into the last 2 matches 8 points clear at the top of the 1st division, with the 2nd & 3rd placed sides to play in the last 2 matches!

Adel 159-9 in 50 overs

I Jones 0, T James 15, M Dallaston 12, S Wardley 22, J Stringer 23, B Hall 5, I Bath 7, A Schornfeld 12, R Ewen 12*, N Stubbs 0, R Mumford 8*, Extras 33

D Wynn 8-1-23-1, P Hardwick 15-2-48-1, R Suri 4-1-14-1, P Akrigg 13-4-34-4, T Stead 5-0-17-0, D Cook 5-1-12-2

Steeton 160-2 in 31.1 overs

M Wilson 68*, T Stead 0, D Robinson 39, J Higginson 47*, Extras 6

N Stubbs 11.1-1-47-2, R Mumford 6-1-30-0, A Schornfeld 3-0-22-0, R Ewen 2-0-22-0, M Dallaston 3-0-14-0, T James 6-1-21-0

The Steeton juggernaut has won the league championship for the 3rd consecutive time with an incisive 8 wicket victory over 2nd placed Adel. Skipper Robert Wynn won the toss and asked Adel to bat first on a typical hard fast Steeton track – just next to last week’s 371 run track. Steeton’s opening bowlers were fast and accurate and Paul Hardwick (1-48) made the first breakthrough, when the dangerous Ian Jones ‘feathered’ a catch to wicket keeper Julian Higginson, and in a very sportsman-like way ‘walked’ before the umpire was required to make what would have been a difficult decision. David Wynn (1-23) then took the next wicket with a clean edge caught by Phil Barrett in the slips. Ross Suri (1-14) trapped Adel’s other opener LBW, before a great spell by Dave Cook (2-12), who wiped-out the Adel middle-order assisted by 2 rapid stumpings by keeper Julian Higginson. The ‘Legend’, aka Phil Akrigg, took 4 wickets for 34 runs from 13 overs, with all 4 being caught: 2 by Phil Barrett in the slips and 1 each for skipper Robert Wynn and David Robinson. Phil Barrett finished with 3 slip catches, and was awarded 2 league fielding points, with Ross Suri also getting a fielding point. An extremely proficient performance by Steeton had restricted Adel to 159 runs for the loss of 9 wickets in 50 overs.

Steeton’s reply did not start well as the in-form Tom Stead was clean bowled with just 1 run on the board. Adel’s N Stubbs (2-47) was bowling with a lively pace and made life difficult for the Steeton batsmen. David Robinson looked in great form as he stroked his way to 39 runs from 37 deliveries, with 9 boundaries before hitting a full-toss straight to mid-on. David had shared a 2nd wicket partnership of 58 runs with experienced opener Mick Wilson, who survived a torrid early examination to top-score with a magnificent unbeaten 68* runs, scored from 99 deliveries with 12 boundaries. Mick then shared a great undefeated 3rd wicket stand of 101 runs with Julian Higginson, who contributed 47* runs not out from 49 balls faced, with 9 fours. Steeton had scored 160 runs for the loss of 2 wickets in 31.1 overs, and the 6 points they collect mean that they are the 2nd XI league champions for the 3rd time in succession. In this match that had been played in the best spirit of the game by both sides, a clinical performance by Steeton meant they had won by 8 wickets with 18 overs to spare.

Kirkstall Educational 250-9 in 50 overs

P Martin 13, S Ellis 40, T Newton 57, P Bennett 58, A Henderson 4, M Missett 16, R Ashworth 4, W Martell 16, L Mulligan 18*, S Bedford 1, C Stevenson 6*, Extras 17

D Wynn 7-2-22-0, P Hardwick 14-1-58-3, T Stead 5-1-21-0, R Suri 5-1-10-0, D Cook 6-0-38-0, P Akrigg 9-0-75-6, L Spragg 4-0-17-0

Steeton 253-7 in 49.3 overs

M Wilson 10, T Stead 10, D Robinson 74, J Higginson 21, R Wynn 51, L Spragg 17, D Cook 48*, D Wynn 8, P Hardwick 0*, Extras 14

S Bedford 6-0-25-1, L Mulligan 16.3-5-84-0, C Stevenson 19-0-87-6, M Missett 5-0-32-0, A Henderson 3-0-17-0

The Steeton 2nd XI juggernaut won the league championship last week, but wanted revenge for their semi-final cup exit at the hands of Kirkstall. This season there have been several matches which Steeton 2nd XI have won, which they should in all probability have lost or ended with a losing draw. This match must surely rank with those that Steeton should not have been able to collect 6 points, but they did! Kirkstall batted first and had a great 3rd wicket stand of 119 runs between Newton (57) and Bennett (58) which helped them amass a fine 250 runs for the loss of 9 wickets in their 50 overs. Phil Akrigg must surely be in with a great chance of the league bowling averages as he took another 6 wickets today at the cost of 75 runs. Paul Hardwick took the other 3 wickets in a spell of 14 overs that conceded 58 runs. Keeper Julian Higginson claimed his 24th league victim with a catch, and there were further catches for Mick Wilson, Paul Hardwick, David Wynn & Tom Stead.

In reply Steeton’s openers Mick Wilson (10) & Tom Stead (10) both made double figures, but at No3 David Robinson was again in masterful form as he stroked his way to a great 74 runs from 89 deliveries with 2 sixes & 9 fours. Julian Higginson added 21 runs before skipper Robert Wynn (51) smashed a rapid half-century. Robert faced 60 balls for his 51 runs, which included 8 boundaries. Lee Spragg chipped in with 17 runs but as the final over started Steeton still needed 13 runs, but Dave Cook had the strike. Dave smashed the first delivery for a massive six almost to Kirkstall railway station, he then pulled the next ball for a four, before smashing the third delivery for another big six to win the match. Dave finished with an unbeaten 48* runs scored from just 26 deliveries with 4 sixes & 4 fours. In an incredible display of hitting Steeton finished with 253 runs for 7 wickets from 49.3 overs, and so collect all 6 points. Stevenson (6-87) had taken 6 wickets for Kirkstall, who were clearly ‘gutted’ to lose this match…but a round of drink brought into the Steeton changing room proves they are good sports!

Guiseley 186-4 in 30 overs

S Goodbold 34, A Hewitt 87, R Butterfield 30, N Hudson 17, R Mooney 1*, L Wray 4*, Extras 13

Z Pearson 5-0-21-0, R Suri 7-0-28-1, A Hardwick 4-0-34-0, J Emmott 10-0-71-3, C Boulton 4-0-28-0

Steeton 88-7 in 30 overs

D Hedges 4, A Hardwick 11, J Pearson 12, P Barrett 15, Z Pearson 8, A Howarth 5, J Emmott 24*, G Manthorp 5, C Boulton 0*, Extras 4

L Wary 7-1-30-2, R Mooney 6-0-19-2, C Fraser 6-1-19-1, B Mountain 5-1-11-1, A Hewitt 3-3-0-1, N Hudson 2-1-1-0, C Best 1-0-4-0

In a match reduced to 30 overs each by the rain Steeton were outplayed by a strong Guiseley side, and had to settle for just 1 point from a losing draw. Skipper Alex Howarth won the toss and asked Guiseley to bat first on a damp track. Guiseley top-order all batted well, with young opener Hewitt top-scoring with 87 runs. Steeton’s bowling was led by James Emmott who collected 3 wickets for 71 runs from 10 overs. Debutant Ross Suri also bowled an excellent spell and collected 1 wicket for 28 runs from 7 overs. 2 catches by Phil Barrett earned him a fielding point. Guiseley reached 186 runs for the loss of 4 wickets from 30 overs, meaning Steeton would have to score at 6.2 runs/over to challenge.

Steeton were never able to score at the required rate, and steadily lost wickets in the effort. James Emmott top-scored as he batted out for the draw and scored an unbeaten 24* runs. Phil Barrett scored a quickfire 15 runs from 16 deliveries, Jack Pearson scored 12 runs and opener Adam Hardwick scored 11 runs. Steeton finished with 88 runs for the loss of 7 wickets in their 30 overs, and collected 1 point from this losing draw.

Beckwithshaw 89 a/o in 31 overs

J Pridmore 5, S Thompson 0, I Bullock 20, C Smith 3, J Greenwood 2, D Thompson 2, D Harrington 1, S Shah 14, H Shah 0, A Simister 20*, J Wright 2, Extras 21

R Suri 6-1-14-3, Z Pearson 6-0-15-1, J Emmott 6-1-15-2, T Stead 5-1-18-2, C Lowe 4-1-15-0, C Brown 4-1-7-2

Steeton 91-2 in 16.3 overs

D Hedges 40*, A Hardwick 17, T Stead 20, J Pearson 4*, Extras 10

J Wright 6-1-29-1, S Shah 4-0-19-0, J Greenwood 3-0-22-1, C Smith 3.3-2-16-0

Steeton’s 3rd XI restored some pride to the Club for this weekend, with a convincing defeat of Beckwithshaw. Batting first Beckwithshaw lost wickets regularly to some fine Steeton bowling, and were soon 49 runs for the loss of 8 wickets While the last 2 wickets added some respectability to score, Beckwithshaw were all out for 89 runs from 31 overs. The pick of the bowlers was youngster Ross Suri, who collected 3 wickets for just 14 runs from his 6 overs. There was 2 wickets each for Chris Brown (2-7), James Emmott (2-15) and Tom Stead (2-18). Zach Pearson took the other wicket at the cost of 15 runs. Chris Brown took a nice catch in the slips, keeper Gabe Manthorp took his first catch of the season, James Emmott collected a smart return catch off his own bowling, and Zach Pearson took a well-judged one-handed catch at mid-on.

Steeton’s reply was led by the experienced opener David Hedges, who scored an unbeaten 40* runs from 48 deliveries with 8 fours. David shared an opening stand of 29 runs with Adam Hardwick, who scored 17 runs. David then shared a 2nd wicket partnership of 37 runs with Tom Stead, who scored a quick-fire 20 runs from 21 deliveries, with 4 boundaries. Steeton passed the Beckwithshaw total with 32 overs to spare, as they reached 91 runs for the loss of 2 wickets from just 16.3 overs. Steeton won by 8 wickets and collect all 6 points from this one-sided encounter.

Steeton 1pt

Thackley 1pt

The weather waited until after the toss (which we lost and were asked to bat), before persistent rain set in. The match was eventually abandoned after waiting until 4pm and no play had been possible. Both sides collect a single point each.

Steeton 194-7 in 40 overs

M Chowdhury 35, G Manthorp 37, P Barrett 35, C Brown 0, C Boulton 0, A Howarth 45, J Emmott 3, R Suri 25*, C Lowe 0*, Extras 14

R Rhodes 10-1-40-2, R Hill 10-1-34-1, R Spivey 10-0-52-0, D Sim 10-1-55-2

Ilkley 195-8 in 32.3 overs

S Connor 52, J Harrison 0, R Rhodes 63, P Dawson 21, J Hill 25, A Sutherland 0, L Bott 0, R Spivey 13, D Sim 11*, R Hill 0*, Extras 10

R Suri 11-3-56-1, C Brown 6-1-47-1, J Emmott 10-1-47-3, M Chowdhury 2-1-6-1, C Lowe 3-0-28-1, A Howarth 0.3-0-2-0

Steeton 3rd XI were unable to maintain a winning weekend, and in a high-scoring match, they lost to Ilkley by 2 wickets. Batting first Steeton’s openers debutant Mohammad Chowdhury & Gabe Manthorp put on 50 runs before Mohammad was run out for 35 runs scored from 43 deliveries with 5 boundaries. Gabe continued with a 2nd wicket partnership of 54 runs with Phil Barrett, before Gabe was clean bowled for a career best 37 runs scored from 67 balls faced with 5 fours. Phil Barrett scored 35 runs from 39 deliveries with 4 boundaries. Skipper Alex Howarth played a captain’s innings as he smashed 45 runs from just 31 balls faced with 1 six and 5 fours, and at the close of the innings Ross Suri also scored a career best unbeaten 25* runs from 33 deliveries with 3 fours. Steeton finished with 194 runs for 7 wickets from their 40 overs, which is usually enough to win most 3rd XI matches.

Ilkley’s top order batters came out with ‘all guns blazing’ and Connor (52) and Rhodes (63) smashed 85 runs from the first 10 overs, which put Ilkley in the driving seat. James Emmott was the pick of the bowlers and he collected 3 wickets for 47 runs from his 10 overs. There was a wicket apiece for Mohammad Chowdhury (1-6), Callum Lowe (1-28), Chris Brown (1-47) and Ross Suri (1-56). Keeper Gabe Manthorp took 1 catch, skipper Alex Howarth pouched 2 catches, Mohammad Chowdhury took a catch & had a direct hit run out & Phil Barrett took a high catch on the boundary. Making his debut young Charlie Manthorp made some good stops. As Ilkley lost wickets the scoring rate dropped dramatically, but with 8 wickets down they managed to pass the Steeton total. If all Steeton’s catches had been taken I think we could have won, but Ilkley’s 195 runs for 8 wickets from 32.3 overs mean they take all 6 points from this close encounter.

North Leeds 95 a/o in 34.3 overs

S Seller 12, W Jackson 24, A Chana 16, D Gray 3, I Richards 0, O White 3, D Cowley 13, P Maver 0, G Hales 9*, M Umar 1, N Gray 3, Extras 11

R Suri 10-1-20-1, Z Pearson 7-1-30-0, A Hardwick 7.3-0-18-1, J Emmott 10-3-23-6

Steeton 96-5 in 25 overs

D Hedges 31, A Hardwick 0, M Chowdhury 49, J Pearson 6, G Manthorp 0, C Lowe 1*, Z Pearson 2*, Extras 7

O White 6-1-11-0, M Umar 8-1-31-1, G Hales 7-0-29-2, I Richards 4-2-22-2

Steeton 3rd XI are through to the next round of the Chappell Cup with a convincing defeat of North Leeds. After an opening stand of 44 runs, Steeton bowled North Leeds all out for 95 runs in 34.3 overs. James Emmott was in great form taking 6 wickets for 23 runs from 10 overs. There was a wicket each for Adam Hardwick (1-18) and Ross Suri (1-20). Steeton had two smart run outs: by Ross Suri & Zach Pearson, and four catches taken, with one each for skipper Alex Howarth, Mohammad Chowshury, keeper Gabe Manthorp & Zach Pearson.

In reply Steeton knocked-off the runs thanks to a fine 2nd wickets partnership of 68 runs between opener David Hedges (31) and Mohammad Chowdhury (49). Mohammad Chowdhury scored a swash-buckling 49 runs from 56 deliveries with 3 sixes and 5 fours, opener David Hedges scored a more orthodox 31 runs from 64 balls faced with 6 boundaries. With the end in sight Steeton lost three quick wickets, but comfortably scored 96 runs for the loss of 5 wickets in 25 overs to win by 5 wickets with 15 overs to spare. They now meet Kirkstall Educational at home on 1st July in the 2nd round.

Otley 162-5 in 40 overs

J North 34, J Atkinson 86, S Wood 9, J Coleman 9, J Moss 3, B Cater 4*, V Jackson 1*, Extras 16

R Suri 9-1-26-1, Z Pearson 5-0-24-0, A Hardwick 4-0-13-0, J Emmott 10-1-45-1, C Lowe 5-1-17-0, C Brown 2-0-8-0, J Pearson 5-0-25-3

Steeton 164-6 in 36.5 overs

A Hardwick 0, D Hedges 17, M Chowdhury 74, J Pearson 0, C Brown 29, G Manthorp 8*, A Howarth 10, J Emmott 8*, Extras 18

J Coleman 8-3-33-3, J Moss 10-2-34-1, B Cater 7.5-1-37-0, J Perry 3-0-21-0, J Atkinson 8-2-28-2

Steeton 3rd XI had another impressive performance at Cross Green. Otley batted first and thanks to an opening stand of 87 runs between North (34) and Atkinson (86), they scored 162 runs for 5 wickets in their 40 overs. Jack Pearson was the pick of the bowlers with 3 wickets for 25 runs from 5 overs. Ross Suri (1-26) & James Emmott (1-45) took a wicket each, and there were regulation catches for keeper Gabe Manthorp, David Hedges, Callum Lowe & skipper Alex Howarth.

Steeton were soon struggling at 45 runs for 3 wickets, with only opener David Hedges scoring 17 runs before falling to an excellent catch at square leg. However Mohammad Chowdhury was still there, and he must now be the most exciting batsman to watch in the entire Club! Mohammad played a fine innings and scored 74 runs from 75 deliveries, with 5 sixes & 7 fours, before being well caught on the long-off boundary. He bats & fields with a boyish enthusiasm that makes him a very enjoyable team mate, and his innings swung the game away from Otley. Mohammad shared a 4th wicket partnership of 79 runs with Chris Brown, who scored 29 runs from 52 deliveries with 5 boundaries. Skipper Alex Howarth chipped in with 10 runs, as Steeton passed the Otley total with 3 overs and 4 wickets to spare. Steeton scored 164 runs for the loss of 6 wickets in 36.5 overs to win by 4 wickets & collect all 6 points.

Steeton 143-8 in 25 overs

A Hardwick 24, D Hedges 28, M Chowdhury 17, J Pearson 7, A Howarth 20, C Brown 21, J Emmott 7, M Hagyard 3, Z Pearson 0*, G Manthorp 0*, Extras 16

P Lawrence 7-1-33-3, M Wainwright 5-0-25-0, J Pickering 6-0-34-2, A Hardy 7-0-43-3

Horsforth 73-1 in 11.3 overs

C Fairbank 39*, J Langan 0, O Hardacre 23*, Extras 11

M Hagyard 5-0-27-0, Z Pearson 4-0-14-1, J Emmott 1.3-0-15-0, C Brown 1-0-9-0

Great effort was made to even start this match, but it did get started 1½ hours late at 4pm, with 25 overs a side. Steeton lost the toss and unsurprisingly were asked to bat first. David Hedges top-scored with 28 runs before being clean bowled, and shared an opening stand of 56 runs with Adam Hardwick, who scored a rapid 24 runs. Chris Brown (21), Alex Howarth (20) & Mohammad Chowdhury (17) continued the steady scoring through the middle order, and Steeton closed their innings having scored 143 runs for 8 wickets in 25 overs. The rain began again at lunch, and Horsforth were now batting on a wet wicket with the ball skidding on to the bat.

In reply Horsforth had scored 73 runs for 1 wicket in 11.3 overs, with Fairbank (39*), when the umpires considered the prolonged heavy rain had made the surface unsafe to continue. Zach Pearson (1-14) took the only wicket to fall. Both teams were beaten by the weather, and had to settle for 1 point each.

Kirkstall Educational 129-8 in 37 overs

A Cockerham 15, M Ashworth 0, A Henderson 34, S Latif 17, J Brown 33, C Mellet 3, A Banks 1, S Watkins 10, A Dodds 8*, Extras 8

R Suri 10-4-12-1, M Hagyard 10-5-23-2, Z Pearson 9-0-42-1, J Emmott 6-0-38-2, C Brown 2-0-7-1

Steeton 132-5 in 29.2 overs

D Hedges 31, M Chowdhury 21, M Thomas 2, C Brown 36*, P Barrett 15, M Hagyard 10, A Howarth 8*, Extras 9

A Dodds 3-0-19-0, A Henderson 10-3-21-2, L Thorne 3-1-12-0, S Latif 7-0-38-1, S Watkins 3-0-17-0, A Cockerham 2-0-13-1, A Banks 1.2-0-10-0

Steeton 3rd XI convincingly demolished top-of-the-league Kirkstall to make it a clean sweep of all 3 senior sides moving into the semi-final stage of their respective cup competitions. This was an important toss to win & Steeton were able to ask Kirkstall to bat first on a damp pitch, with rain reducing the match to 37 overs each. Both of Steeton’s opening bowlers were very tight with Matthew Hagyard bowling 10 overs and taking 2 wickets for 23 runs, and his opening partner, Ross Suri bowling 10 overs and conceding just 12 runs while taking 1 wicket. James Emmott also took 2 wickets for 38 runs, Chris Brown took a wicket with his very first delivery and finished with 1 wicket for 7 runs, and Zach Pearson also collected 1 wickets at a cost of 42 runs. An excellent fielding performance was capped by good catches pouched by Phil Barrett, keeper Gabe Manthorp, skipper Alex Howarth & James Emmott, and also a fast pick-up & throw by Alex Howarth that led to a comfortable run out by Gabe. Kirkstall Educational had been restricted to 129 runs for 8 wickets in 37 overs.

Steeton’s reply was led by opener Dave Hedges, who scored 31 runs from 53 deliveries with 1 six & 4 fours, before being run out. David shared an opening stand of 36 runs with Mohammad Chowdhury, who scored a rapid 21 runs from 21 balls faced with 3 boundaries. Top-scorer was Chris Brown, who scored an unbeaten 36 runs from 46 deliveries with 1 six & 4 fours, and Chris shared a  5th wicket stand of 32 runs with Phil Barrett (15) and a  6th wicket stand of 24 runs with Matthew Hagyard (10). Steeton raced to victory with 7 overs & 5 wickets to spare, as they finished with 132 runs for 5 wickets in 29.2 overs. Steeton now meet Guiseley at home in the semi-final on 22nd July.

Steeton 1pt

Colton Institute 1pt

Rain and a water-logged pitch meant this match was called off in the morning. Both sides collect a single point each.

Calverley 265-1 in 40 overs

P Coates 4, G Lee 146*, S Driscoll 89*, Extras 26

R Suri 10-1-79-0, Z Pearson 10-0-71-1, J Pearson 5-0-26-0, C Lowe 5-2-14-0, C Brown 5-0-27-0, A Hardwick 5-0-33-0

Steeton 202 a/o in 40 overs

A Hardwick 2, D Hedges 104*, M Chowdhury 1, A Howarth 46, C Brown 11, J Pearson 1, G Manthorp 1, Z Pearson 0, R Suri 0, D Hanson 2, C Lowe 8, Extras 26

A Lee 9-2-30-1, C Coates 4-0-30-1, M Mears 10-0-33-1, G Lee 8-1-45-4, J Roundhill 3-0-34-1, M Ward 3-0-9-0, L Barraclough 3-1-12-2

Runs galore; a century in both innings, but sadly the wrong outcome as far as Steeton 3rd XI are concerned, as they lose at the semi-final stage of the Ian Chappell Cup. Calverley batted first, and Steeton made an early breakthrough when keeper Gabe Manthorp took a catch off the bowling of Zach Pearson (1-71) with the score on 6 runs. That was the only success the Steeton bowlers were to have as ex-Bradford league player Gareth Lee plundered an unbeaten 146* runs from Steeton’s junior bowling attack, and shared an unbroken 2nd wicket stand of 259 runs with Driscol (89*). Steeton would have to score at almost 7 runs per over if they were to reach the final.

Steeton’s reply was led by opener David Hedges, who scored a magnificent unbeaten century. David scored 104* runs from 107 deliveries with 2 sixes & 12 fours. After losing 2 partners early the immense Calverley target did look a possibility as David shared a great 3rd wicket partnership of 111 runs with skipper Alex Howarth, who scored 46 runs from 61 balls faced, with 6 boundaries. David then shared a 4th wicket stand of 46 runs with Chris Brown (11), but the rest of the Steeton batting collapsed. Last man Callum Lowe (8) showed some resistance as he and David put on 20 runs for the last wicket, which helped David pass the 100 mark. Callum was unfortunately out from the last ball of the match, and Steeton had scored 202 runs all out in their 40 overs. Steeton had lost by 63 runs – beaten by Gareth Lee, who incidentally took 4 wickets to add to his 146* (he must be so proud!)

Adel 152 a/o in 40 overs

M Johnson 9, G Thorp 29, K Roberts 42, S Ridgway 0, S Raha 5, J Audsley 17, M Tattersall 7, Z Siraj 0, A Audsley 8*, J Thorp 0, G OSullivan 1, Extras 19

T Stead 9-0-32-4, R Suri 10-5-18-1, Z Pearson 10-2-35-0, A Hardwick 6-0-32-3, J Pearson 5-1-22-1

Steeton 153-3 in 28.4 overs

A Hardwick 20, D Hedges 83*, M Chowdhury 22, C Brown 2, J Pearson 6*, Extras 10

M Johnson 5-0-25-0, J Thorp 5-0-13-1, S Raha 2-0-19-0, G OSullivan 5-0-23-0, M Tattersal 7-1-25-1, K Roberts 6-0-37-0

In a commanding performance Steeton 3rd XI beat Adel by 7 wickets. Asked to bat first Adel scored 152 runs all out in their 40 overs with Thorp (42) top-scoring for them. Steeton’s all-junior bowling attack was very effective, with Tom Stead claiming 4 wickets for 32 runs in 9 overs, and Adam Hardwick taking 3 wickets for 32 runs in 6 overs. The other bowlers to take wickets were Ross Suri (1-18) & Jack Pearson (1-22). Jack Pearson also took 3 catches, including a return catch from his own bowling, and keeper Gabe Manthorp added 2 catches to his season’s tally.

The Steeton reply was once again dominated by opener David Hedges, who scored a great unbeaten 83* runs, with 2 sixes & 13 fours. Adam Hardwick (20) & Mohammad Chowdhury (22) added good contributions, as Steeton raced to 153 runs for the loss of 3 wickets in 28.4 overs, and claim all 6 points.

Knaresborough 189-4 in 40 overs

T Taylor 17, P Barnes 20, R MacKenzie 46, B Parkes 51*, B MacRill 23, B Hazlett 16*, Extras 16

R Suri 8-2-35-1, Z Pearson 7-3-24-0, A Hardwick 4-0-29-1, C Lowe 5-0-31-0, D Cook 8-4-7-1, J Pearson 4-0-28-1, D Austick 4-0-30-0

Steeton 190-3 in 35.3 overs

A Hardwick 63, D Hedges 47, D Cook 43*, J Pearson 14, R Suri 1*, Extras 22

B MacRill 7-1-29-1, P Hazlett 4-0-14-0, T Taylor 7.3-2-30-0, P Barnes 8-0-49-0, J O 5-1-20-2, R MacKenzie 4-0-37-0

Asked to bat first Knaresborough scored a challenging 189 runs for 4 wickets in their 40 overs, thanks to an unbeaten half-century by Parkes. Four of the seven bowlers used by Steeton took a single wicket apiece: Ross Suri (1-35), Adam Hardwick (1-29), Dave Cook (1-7) & Jack Pearson (1-28). Dave Cook & stand-in keeper Chris Brown took a catch each. In reply Steeton would need to score at almost 5 runs per over.

Steeton’s innings began well with a new Club record opening stand of 107 runs between Adam Hardwick (63) and the in-form David Hedges (47). Adam scored his 63 runs from 88 deliveries with 11 boundaries, and his partner David faced 70 balls to score his 47 runs, which included 2 sixes & 5 fours. At No3 Dave Cook continued the consistent scoring with an unbeaten 43 runs from just 35 deliveries, with a six & 4 fours. Dave shared a 2nd wicket stand of 33 runs with Adam & a 3rd wicket stand of 48 runs with Jack Pearson (14). Jack was bowled with victory in sight, but Steeton passed the Knaresborough target with 7 wickets & 4 overs to spare. Steeton had scored 190 runs for 3 wickets in 35.3 overs, and collected all 6 points from this high-scoring encounter.

Steeton 1pt

Rawdon 1pt

Bad weather forced this fixture to be called off in the morning, and the team did not even travel to Rawdon.

Bilton 127-6 in 40 overs

M Shaw 15, J Ford 30, J Orton 20, L Mallinson 19, C Brooker 5, D Hardcastle 2, B Simpson 6*, C Nolam 0*, Extras 30

R Suri 5-1-9-0, C Lowe 8-2-24-1, K Wynn 7-0-16-1, J Emmott 7-1-22-2, A Hardwick 5-0-21-0, D Hanson 5-0-16-1, C Brown 3-2-2-1

Steeton 130-5 in 20.2 overs

Batters 0, Extras 0

C Brooker 7.2-1-25-3, J Orton 5-0-26-1, B Simpson 3-0-19-0, C Nolam 4-0-35-1, A Watts 1-0-13-0

Asked to bat first Bilton batted through their 40 overs but only managed to score 127 runs, with 30 of these runs being donated as extras! Apart from a few dropped catches Steeton’s fielding was of the highest order, with fielding points for Katie Wynn & Callum Lowe and catches for Phil Barrett, David Hedges, Ross Suri & keeper Gabe Manthorp. Steeton used 7 bowlers with James Emmott finishing with the best figures of 2 wickets for 22 runs. Four of the other bowlers collected a single wicket each: Callum Lowe (1-24), Katie Wynn (1-16), Danny Hanson (1-16) & Chris Brown (1-2). For Bilton Ford top-scored with 30 runs, but I now think that people who ‘walk’ when caught behind are definitely now in a minority.

Steeton’s reply faltered with the in-form opener David Hedges (11) only making double-figures before being given out LBW. Steeton had a series of good partnerships, with a fine 4th wicket stand of 45 runs between Phil Barrett (36) and Chris Brown (43*). Phil Barrett scored his 36 runs from 44 deliveries with 5 boundaries before being caught at the wicket, and Chris Brown faced just 33 balls for his excellent unbeaten 43* runs, which included 1 six & 7 fours. Bilton’s opening bowler Brooker took 3 wickets for 25 runs from 7.2 overs. Steeton scored 130 runs for the loss of 5 wickets in 20.2 overs, and so had knocked off Bilton’s meagre target with 19 overs and 5 wickets to spare to collect all 6 points.

Harden 164-4 in 33 overs

M Portlock 0, M Falkingham (Jnr) 7, J Leng 37, M Falkingham (Snr) 39, B Portlock 37*, R Pullen 34*, Extras 10

C Lowe 7-0-25-1, Z Pearson 5-1-11-1, A Gledhill 5-0-17-0, J Pearson 5-0-29-1, A Hardwick 5-0-30-0, D Hanson 4-0-25-1, J Hill 2-0-19-0

Steeton 77-4 in 22 overs

A Hardwick 6, D Hedges 32, P Barrett 2, J Pearson 12*, C Brown 6, A Howarth 6*, Extras 13

M Topham 4-0-18-0, R Pullen 5-1-14-0, P Topham 7-4-11-2, W Booth 6-0-28-1

If this was a decent summer this match would have been called-off without a ball being bowled. With 4 matches already victim to the weather this season, both sides were keen to try to get some cricket played today. Play continued in the constant light rain, and only stopped during the heavier rain. The rain-delayed start meant the match was reduced to 35 overs a side, and further stoppages during play meant this was further reduced to 33 overs each. Harden batted first and despite losing a wicket off the very first delivery of the day, they batted well with Mark Falkingham scoring 39 runs, Leng 37 runs, Portlock 37* runs not out and Pullan 34* runs not out, as Harden closed with a good total of 164 runs for the loss of 4 wickets in 33 overs. The Steeton bowlers struggled to bowl with a ‘bar-of-soap’ – four bowlers took a single wicket each: Callum Lowe (1-25), Zach Pearson (1-11), Jack Pearson (1-29) and Danny Hanson (1-25). Behind the wickets, Chris Brown was outstanding with a catch & a stumping.

Steeton’s reply continued when the rain eased to a light drizzle, and once again opener David Hedges led the way with 32 runs scored from 53 deliveries with 5 boundaries. Jack Pearson scored 12* runs not out, but when the rain started to turn heavy again the match was abandoned with Steeton 77 runs for 4 wickets in 22 overs. Both sides had tried valiantly to play some cricket, but in the end the weather was the only victor, and a single point each is their only reward.

North Leeds 254-6 in 40 overs

A Charna 1, S Sellers 12, D Normaschild 84, G Wales 51, G Hales 56, W Jackson 14*, D Cowley 0, A Cheeseman 12*, Extras 24

Z Pearson 5-0-15-0, R Suri 10-2-53-1, J Emmott 9-0-48-2, C Lowe 5-1-15-1, J Pearson 4-0-30-0, K Wynn 4-0-48-1, D Austick 2-0-29-0

Steeton 100 a/o in 21.2 overs

D Hedges 0, R Suri 19, A Howarth 0, D Hanson 0, J Emmott 36, Z Pearson 15, C Lowe 4, K Wynn 7*, D Austick 1, J Hill 3, Extras 15

A Cheeseman 7-2-21-4, M Johnson 5-0-35-0, M Umar 5.2-2-17-3, G Hales 4-1-22-1

Steeton 3rd XI were unable to continue the winning weekend and were soundly beaten by a strong North Leeds outfit. North Leeds batted first and after a slow start that saw them score just 25 runs from the first 10 overs, they opened up and a succession of solid scores: Normaschild (84), Wales (51) & Hales (56) helped them reach an impressive 254 runs for the loss of 6 wickets in 40 overs. James Emmott was the pick of the bowlers with 2 wickets for 48 runs from 9 overs, and there was a single wicket apiece for Callum Lowe (1-15), Katie Wynn (1-48) & Ross Suri (1-53). Zach Pearson took an excellent one-handed catch, and helped run out another batter with a sharp pick-up & through to stand-in keeper David Hedges.

To win this Steeton would have to score at almost 6½ runs per over, and their cause was not helped when they lost in-form opener David Hedges from the 3rd ball of the innings. Skipper Alex Howarth soon followed to a LBW decision and Steeton were soon looking at 37 runs for the loss of 4 wickets, with all wickets for North Leeds’ Cheeseman (4-21). Opener Ross Suri crashed 3 boundaries in his innings of 19 runs scored from 29 deliveries. James Emmott top-scored with 36 runs scored from 36 deliveries, with 3 sixes and 4 fours, before he was clean bowled without attempting to play a shot. James shared a 5th wicket stand of 27 runs with Zach Pearson, who scored 15 runs before being run out. In a side packed with youngsters, the Steeton tail offered little resistance with the exception of Katie Wynn, who was defiantly 7* runs not out when she ran out of partners. Steeton were all out for 100 runs in 21.2 overs, and so lost by 154 runs with North Leeds taking all 6 points from this one-sided encounter.

Burley-in-Wharfedale 212-5 in 40 overs

A Brear 12, J Frost 0, A Crowmack 5, M Hughes 17, J Colclough 71, G Atherton 68*, J Ullock 19*, C Peel 1*, Extras 19

C Lowe 10-0-60-2, R Suri 10-3-42-1, Z Pearson 5-1-14-1, C Boulton 5-1-14-0, K Wynn 5-0-29-0, D Hanson 5-0-41-0

Steeton 103-0 in 12 overs

C Brown 47*, D Hedges 48*, Extras 8

A Brear 3-1-20-0, A Peel 4-1-27-0, J Ullock 3-0-25-0, J Colclough 2-0-25-0

In a fitting end to this wet season the 3rd XI match against Burley was abandoned due to rain. Burley batted first and were under pressure as Steeton’s opening bowlers performed well with the new ball. Aided by a run out with an excellent stop & throw by Tom Smith to keeper Chris Brown, Burley were soon reduced to 18 runs for the loss of 3 wickets. As the light rain started bowling became more difficult, and Burley put together a great 4th wicket stand of 103 runs with Colclough (71) and Atherton (68*). After their poor start Burley scored an excellent 212 runs for the loss of 5 wickets in their 40 overs, as the Steeton bowlers struggled once again trying to bowl with a ‘bar of soap’. Callum Lowe had the best bowling return of 2 wickets for 60 runs in 10 overs, and there was a wicket each for Ross Suri (1-42) and Zach Pearson (1-14). Charlotte Boulton took 2 comfortable catches from the bowling of  Callum.

Steeton’s reply started in the rain, but was curtailed with David Hedges (48*) and Chris Brown (47*) batting as though it was a Twenty20 match. They had reached 103 runs without loss of any wickets in just 12 overs, when the umpires called a halt to proceedings. David Hedges had scored an unbeaten 48* runs from 39 deliveries with 1 six & 8 fours, and Chris Brown matched him as he faced 35 balls for an unbeaten 47* runs which also included 1 six & 8 fours. The persistent light rain had got no heavier, but the umpires considered it was not fit to continue. Both sides collect a single point.