Fixtures 2008

2nd XI3rd XI

First XI 2008

19 April 2008 v New Rover (A) - Winning Draw (4-2)

Steeton 139 a/o in 49.2 overs

A Luxton 25, R Atkins 4, I Page 10, N Spragg 6, J Akrigg 51, D Robinson 10, G Boulton 12, J Best 0, N Wilson 4, A Gledhill 1*, D Wynn 2, Extras 14

A Brown 25-3-60-7, H Mir 10.2-4-18-2, P Ralli 8-2-16-0, S Rehman 6-1-21-0

New Rover 124-8 in 50 overs

M Richmond 7, S Mowory 15, W Arnold 0, M Dinsdale 35, T Ibbotson 10, H Mir 15, H Mir 19*, S Rehman 5, D Ruben 0, P Ralli 0*, Extras 19

G Boulton 25-14-38-5, D Wynn 2-0-18-0, A Gledhill 9-3-20-3, N Spragg 12-3-29-0, R Atkins 2-0-9-0

Steeton achieved a 4-2 winning draw in their first ever match against New Rover. Batting first Steeton scored 139 runs all out in 49.2 overs, thanks largely to a fine half-century by John Akrigg. John scored 51 runs from 96 deliveries with 6 boundaries. Opening the innings Andrew Luxton had scored a steady 25 runs, and the other batsmen to reach double figures were Gary Boulton (12), South African Ian Page (10) and David Robinson (10) For New Rover, Brown took 7 wickets for 60 runs from 25 overs.

In reply Steeton also bowled tightly with Gary Boulton the pick of the bowlers. Gary bowled all 25 overs from one end and took 5 wickets while only conceding 38 runs. Alex Gledhill was also in fine form as he took 3 wickets for 20 runs from 9 overs. Top scorer for New Rover was Dinsdale with 35 runs. New Rover seemed content to just achieve the ¾ score and finished with 8 wickets down and the score on 124 runs from their 50 overs. Steeton collect 4 valuable points from this inaugural encounter.


26 April 2008 v Upper Wharfedale (H) - Won by 5 wickets

Upper Wharfedale 154 a/o in 50 overs

D Eggleton 46, A Foulds 13, B Way 2, J Freebury 28, S Pearson 2, C Butt 17, C Baines 12, C Bean 17, T Baines 8, D Daggett 2, J Yeadon 2*, Extras 5

G Boulton 16-2-69-5, D Wynn 8-2-17-0, N Spragg 9-2-19-1, A Luxton 9-1-25-1, A Gledhill 8-2-21-2

Steeton 158-5 in 48.3 overs

R Atkins 15, A Luxton 24, I Page 11, N Spragg 8, J Akrigg 45*, D Robinson 0, J Best 31*, Extras 24

J Yeadon 4-1-8-0, S Pearson 9.3-1-43-0, D Daggett 16-5-33-1, D Eggleton 19-6-56-4

Steeton 1st XI continued their excellent start to the 2008 season, with an impressive victory at home against Upper Wharfedale. Batting first Upper Wharfedale were all out for 154 runs from their 50 overs, thanks largely to opener Eggleston who scored 46 runs. Gary Boulton was again in impressive form with the ball, as he collected his second 5 wicket haul of the season. Gary took 5 wickets for 69 runs from 16 overs. Alex Gledhill also bowled well and collected 2 wickets at a cost of 21 runs. The other bowlers to collect wickets were Neil Spragg (1-19) & Andrew Luxton (1-25). Behind the stumps Neil Wilson was in sparkling from as he had 2 stumpings and a catch. Neil Spragg took 2 catches and there was a catch apiece for Richard Atkins & South African Ian Page.

Steeton’s reply started steadily with an opening stand of 44 runs between Richard Atkins (15) and Andrew Luxton (24). South African Ian Page chipped in with 11 runs, but at 89 runs for 5 wickets after 33 overs the match was turning in favour of Upper Wharfedale. For Upper Wharfedale, Eggleton took 4 wickets for 56 runs to add to his 46 runs with the bat. John Akrigg was once again in defiant mood as he top-scored with an unbeaten 45* runs scored from 81 deliveries with 1 six & 6 fours. John shared a match-winning 6th wicket partnership of 69 runs with skipper Jon Best. Jon scored an aggressive 31* runs not out from 47 balls with 6 boundaries. Before the match there had been a minute of silence in memory of Roy Barrett (and Steeton wore black armbands) and there would have been no-one happier than Roy to see skipper Jon Best crash consecutive boundaries, from the bowling of ex-Steeton player Steve Pearson, to complete this victory with 9 balls to spare. Steeton scored 158 runs for 5 wickets from 48.3 overs to win by 5 wickets and collect all 6 points from this first-ever fixture against Upper Wharfedale. Steeton are now in 2nd place in division 2 – just 1 point behind early leaders Knaresborough.


3 May 2008 v Tong Park (A) - Won by 143 runs

Steeton 261-7 in 50 overs

R Atkins 11, A Luxton 78, I Page 75, N Spragg 42, J Akrigg 1, D Robinson 5, G Boulton 5, J Best 26*, N Wilson 2*, Extras 16

C Shepherd 7-0-36-0, M Scott 13-1-57-1, D Shepherd 6-0-39-0, S Young 15-2-61-3, G Wilkinson 9-1-56-3

Tong Park 118 a/o in 48.3 overs

J Druce 30, P Hanson 11, D Groom 17, R Barraclough 18, S Young 1, G Wilkinson 5, M Williams 12, C Shepherd 4, S Kirtley 0, D Shepherd 0*, M Scott 0, Extras 20

D Wynn 5-3-15-0, N Spragg 12.4-4-25-3, A Gledhill 8-2-17-1, G Boulton 18-12-20-4, A Luxton 4-0-18-0, R Atkins 1-0-9-0

Our 1st XI continued their early season excellent form with an impressive victory at Low Springs. Batting first Steeton scored a commanding 261 runs for 7 wickets in their 50 overs. After opener Richard Atkins had scored a steady 11 runs, the major feature of Steeton’s innings was a great 2nd wicket stand of 140 runs between Andrew Luxton & South African Ian Page. Andrew Luxton top-scored with a fantastic knock of 78 runs scored from 120 deliveries with 2 sixes & 8 fours; his partner Ian Page faced 77 balls and smashed 75 runs with 2 sixes & 11 fours. When this partnership was broken some quick wickets tumbled in search of quick runs, until a 7th wicket stand of 41 runs between Neil Spragg & skipper Jon Best. Neil Spragg scored 42 runs from just 34 balls faced with a six & 4 fours, and his partner Jon Best hit 2 sixes and a four in his unbeaten 26* runs from only 20 deliveries. For Tong Park Young (3-61) and Wilkinson (3-56) took 3 wickets each, but at lunch Tong Park knew they had a tough test ahead.

The Tong Park reply began well enough with an opening partnership of 51 runs, with Druce top-scoring with 30 runs, before he was dismissed by Alex Gledhill (1-17). In the 2008 season Gary Boulton is unstoppable and he collected another 4 wickets for just 20 runs from 18 overs – Gary now has 14 wickets from the opening 3 matches! Neil Spragg was also impressive as he mopped-up the tail with 3 wickets for 25 runs from 12.4 overs. Neil Wilson again sparkled behind the stumps with 2 stumpings & a catch, and Ian Page also took another catch. Tong Park also had 2 batsmen run out as they were scuttled for 118 runs all out in 48.4 overs. Steeton won by 143 runs and collect 6 points, giving them a tally of 16 points as they aim to bounce straight back into the top flight. At this early stage Steeton are at the top of the league: 3 points clear of Silsden & Follifoot.


10 May 2008 v Olicanian (H) - Won by 7 wickets

Olicanian 230-9 in 50 overs

D Murray 49, R Harland 8, N Peterson 5, B Clark 21, J Hudson 30, G Williams 35, D Brittan 13, R Wheeler 30*, M House 1, R Machell 4, B Hughes 1*, Extras 33

P Hardwick 7-3-18-0, N Spragg 10-1-47-1, G Boulton 14-1-78-5, A Gledhill 14-2-39-2, A Luxton 5-0-26-1

Steeton 231-3 in 37.4 overs

A Luxton 44, R Atkins 108*, I Page 22, N Spragg 23, J Akrigg 12*, Extras 22

B Hughes 13.4-1-78-1, R Machell 3-0-31-0, M House 11-0-71-1, G Williams 7-0-27-1, D Murray 3-0-14-0

Our 1st XI justified their early season top-of-the-league position with a comfortable win at home to first-time opposition, Olicanain. Steeton fielded first on a good track with lightning-fast outfield, and Olicanian got off to a good start with an opening stand of 59 runs, with Murray (49) falling just short of his fifty. Steeton’s ‘wicket-machine’, Gary Boulton, was brought on to bowl and the Olicanian wickets started to tumble. Gary collected his 3rd 5-wicket haul of the season, as he bowled 14 overs, conceded 78 runs & took 5 wickets. Gary was well supported by Alex Gledhill (2-39) and a wicket apiece for Andrew Luxton (1-26) & Neil Spragg (1-47). All the bowlers were well supported in the field, with excellent catches in the deep by South African Ian Page & Neil Spragg. Keeper Neil Wilson added a further 3 victims to his season’s tally with 2 stumpings & a catch, and John Akrigg also had 1 catch.

At lunch Olicanian must have been reasonably confident with 230 runs for the loss of 9 wickets in their 50 overs, but having never played at Steeton they did not realise they were around 50 runs short. Steeton’s reply started with a solid opening stand of 98 runs between Andrew Luxton (44) & Richard Atkins (108*). Andrew scored his 44 runs from 30 deliveries with 7 boundaries. So far this season Richard Atkins has played a ‘supporting role’, but today he changed that with a fantastic unbeaten century. Richard played some marvellous shots as he scored 108* runs not out from 120 balls faced, and hit 2 sixes & 19 fours. Richard shared a 2nd wicket stand of 52 runs with South African Ian Page (22), a 3rd wicket stand of 59 runs with Neil Spragg (23), and finally an unbroken 4th wicket stand of 22 runs with John Akrigg (12*). Richard hit the winning runs as Steeton passed the Olicanian total with 7 wickets & 12 overs to spare. Steeton finished with 231 runs for the loss of 3 wickets in 37.4 overs to collect all 6 points from this first ever fixture against Olicanian. Steeton are now 4 points clear of local rivals Silsden, who they play next week.


17 May 2008 v Silsden (A) - Drawn (1-1)

Silsden 180-6 in 40 overs

M Pinniger 46, T Sugden 48, Y Ali 8, Z Quazim 8, M Ahmed 3, A Pullen 18, L Bilborough 28*, C Thornton 3*, Extras 18

N Spragg 7-2-20-0, G Boulton 20-3-92-4, P Hardwick 13-0-54-2

Steeton 118-6 in 30 overs

A Luxton 9, R Atkins 9, I Page 50, N Spragg 30, J Akrigg 2, J Best 2*, C Meehan 0, A Gledhill 4*, Extras 12

Z Quazim 15-3-54-2, Y Ali 15-2-52-3

On a wet drizzly day the match was reduced by 30 overs, which would usually mean the side batting first will normally aim to declare after 35 overs – so that both teams have an equal number of overs & extra points available. Silsden batted first and rather than declare they used 40 overs leaving Steeton only 30 overs. Silsden’s had a good opening stand of 76 runs, with ex-Steeton overseas player Matthew Pinniger scoring 46 runs, and Tim Sugden going on to score 48 runs. Silsden scored 180 runs for 6 wickets in 40 overs before they declared. Gary Boulton was again Steeton’s main wicket-taker with 4 wickets for 92 runs in from 20 overs. Paul Hardwick (2-54) also bowled well to pick up two wickets, and there were catches for Alex Gledhill & keeper Neil Wilson. Neil edges even closer to the Club wicket-keeping catches record – he is now 2 catches away from Mark Hedges’ 1st XI Club record of 218 catches.

Silsden were banking on being able to bowl Steeton all out on the damp track in 30 overs, and having lost both openers with just 45 runs on the board Steeton were looking wobbly. Steeton put themselves in the driving seat with a fine 3rd wicket partnership of 61 runs scored in rapid time, between South African Ian Page (50) & Neil Spragg (30). Ian’s 50 runs came from 57 deliveries with 1 six & 6 fours, and Neil faced 43 balls for his 30 runs with 3 boundaries. Steeton lost quick wickets chasing an improbable win, with Silsden’s bowling being punctuated by innumerable appeals. With 6 wickets down & the target clearly out of reach Steeton batted out the last few overs, and finished with 118 runs for 6 wickets from their 30 overs. Because of the uneven number of overs, both sides have to settle for a single point. Knaresborough took the opportunity to gain ground, and are now joint leaders of division 2 with Steeton


18 May 2008 v Illingworth (H) in Waddilove Cup - Won by 7 wickets

Illingworth 218-7 in 45 overs

J Bishop 22, A Lees 11, N Lockley 21, M Fellows 26, P Venter 24, J Lawton 3, V Brooksby 16, A Ledger 34*, C Bishop 40*, Extras 22

G Boulton 9-1-31-2, P Hardwick 8.1-2-33-1, N Spargg 9-0-66-1, A Gledhill 9-2-19-1, A Luxton 9-0-40-1, I Page 0.5-0-10-0

Steeton 220-3 in 40.3 overs

C Meehan 65, J Akrigg 48, I Page 30, N Spragg 27*, A Luxton 25*, Extras 25

G Lockley 9-0-46-0, R Dixon 7-0-31-0, A Lees 7-0-43-1, P Venter 9-1-35-0, A Ledger 6.3-1-28-2, N Lockley 2-0-15-0

Steeton advance to the second round of the Waddilove with a convincing 7-wicket victory at home against third division opposition Illingworth. Batting first Illingworth lost wickets regularly & so were unable to score at the rate that is needed to succeed at Summerhill Lane. It was only their aggressive 8th wicket stand of 73 runs in 8 overs, between Ledger (34*) & Bishop (40*), that added respectability to their total. Gary Boulton was the pick of the bowlers with 2 wickets for 31 runs in 9 overs, but Alex Gledhill bowled an excellent spell, with his 9 overs conceding only 19 runs as he collected 1 wicket. There was also a wicket each for Paul Hardwick (1-33), Andrew Luxton (1-40) & Neil Spragg (1-66) Keeper Neil Wilson added another victim to his impressive tally, when he caught a thin knick behind, and Neil Spragg pouched a comfortable catch at mid-off. John Akrigg helped run out one of the Illingworth openers with a smart pick-up & throw to Alex Gledhill.

At lunch Illingworth seemed reasonable happy with their total of 218 runs for 7 wickets in 45 over, but as new-comers to the Steeton track they were not aware that they were around 30 runs short of a challenging total. Steeton’s reply was anchored by top-scoring opener Chris Meehan, who scored a sparkling 65 runs from 102 deliveries with 7 boundaries. Chris shared a great opening partnership of 102 runs with John Akrigg, who unfortunately was caught just short of his half-century. John scored 48 runs from 56 balls with 1 six (smashing a neighbouring window) & 9 fours. Chris went on to share a 2nd wicket stand of 54 runs with South African Ian Page (30). Ian’s 30 runs were scored from just 35 deliveries with 1 six & 3 fours. Illingworth’s total was finally passed with an unbeaten 4th wicket partnership of 51 runs between Neil Spragg (27*) & Andrew Luxton (25*). Steeton had scored 220 runs for 3 wickets in 40.3 overs to win by 7 wickets with 4 overs to spare & so progress comfortably to second round of the Waddilove Cup, where they travel to Guiseley on 1st June


24 May 2008 v Harden (H) - Won by 7 wickets

Harden 130-9 in 50 overs

L Scown 6, J Leng 14, A Bairstow 24, J Roper 7, N Verity 27, N Kettle 2, B Hinchcliffe 11, S Wood 12, C Wintersgill 10, J Bailey 5*, P Leng 5*, Extras 7

G Boulton 11-5-23-2, P Hardwick 13-4-28-1, N Spragg 8-0-30-2, A Gledhill 12-2-27-1, A Luxton 6-0-19-2

Steeton 133-3 in 33 overs

A Luxton 3, R Atkins 39*, I Page 0, N Spragg 16, J Akrigg 63*, Extras 12

P Leng 9-2-21-2, B Hinchcliffe 7-2-28-0, S Wood 6-1-40-1, C Wintersgill 8-4-12-0, J Bailey 3-0-26-0

Harden batted first and lost wickets regularly with Verity (27) top-scoring. Harden were unable to score at a sufficient rate and so could only muster 130 runs for 9 wickets in their 50 overs. All the Steeton bowlers took at least 1 wicket, but there were 2 wickets apiece for Andrew Luxton (2-19), Gary Boulton (2-23) &a Neil Spragg (2-30). Alex Gledhill (1-27) & Paul Hardwick (1-28) collected a wicket each. The bowlers were well supported in the field with keeper Neil Wilson taking 2 catches and 2 stumpings. Neil now has 219 1st XI Club catches, which passes Mark Hedges’ previous record – he now has the most Club catches & stumpings for both 1st XI & 2nd XI. There were also catches for Gary Boulton, overseas player Ian Page, Neil Spragg, and Andrew Luxton also took a well-judged high swirling catch & had a run out.

At lunch Steeton must have been confident, but after losing 3 early wickets they were only on 43 runs, with Neil Spragg scoring 16 runs: badly in need of some stability! Stability came in the form of John ‘Veteran’ Akrigg (63*), who shared an unbeaten match-winning 4th wicket partnership of 90 runs with opener Richard Atkins (39*). As wickets fell at the other end, Richard had scored steadily, and his 39* runs came from 88 deliveries with 7 boundaries. John Akrigg was clearly not in the mood for running, as he faced 63 balls for his 63* runs – with an incredible 60 of his runs coming from 15 fours! For Harden, Leng (2-21) bowled well, but Steeton knocked off the runs with ease, passing the meagre total with 7 wickets & 17 overs to spare. Steeton had scored 133 runs for the loss of 3 wickets in 33 overs to collect all 6 points from this one-sided encounter. Steeton are leaders of the division – 2 points clear of Knaresborough, who they play next week


31 May 2008 v Knaresborough (A) - Losing Draw (1-5)

Knaresborough 232-3 in 50 overs

A Prior 7, C Williams 12, D Tormey 143*, D Girling 12, J Tattersal 39*, Extras 19

G Boulton 12-4-55-1, P Hardwick 13-3-49-0, A Gledhill 13-0-60-1, A Luxton 12-1-53-1

Steeton 117-9 in 50 overs

D Robinson 0, A Luxton 5, I Page 16, N Spragg 7, J Akrigg 7, T Stead 36, J Best 7, G Boulton 4, A Gledhill 8, N Wilson 11*, P Hardwick 5*, Extras 11

D Girling 10-3-18-4, D Tormey 6-3-25-1, T Metcalfe 11-3-16-0, M Baxendall 13-2-33-4, J Corcoran 7-3-12-0, A Prior 2-1-4-0

Knaresborough batted first and set a formidable 232-4 in their 50 overs, with their overseas player Tormey scoring 143*. Gary Boulton (1-55), Alex Gledhill (1-60) & Andrew Luxton (1-53) collected a single wicket each, but none of the 4 bowlers used escaped ‘unscathed’. David Robinson took the only catch & was awarded 2 fielding points.

This score proved too much for Steeton as the top order batsmen tumbled, with only overseas player Ian Page (16) managing double figures. Batting at No6 and with wickets tumbling at the other end youngster Tom Stead top-scored with a career-best 36 runs, scored from 83 deliveries with 2 boundaries. Steeton’s last pair Neil Wilson (11*) & Paul Hardwick (5*) batted out the last 9 overs for a 1 point losing draw. Steeton finished with 117 runs for 9 wickets in their 50 overs. With 4 wickets each Girling (4-18) & Baxendall (4-33) were Knaresborough’s main bowling threat. Knaresborough leap-frog Steeton, who are now in 2nd place in the league


7 June 2008 v Bardsey (H) - Lost by 7 wickets

Steeton 120 a/o in 38.1 overs

D Robinson 41, A Luxton 8, I Page 30, N Spragg 0, J Akrigg 0, T Stead 6, J Best 8, G Boulton 7, N Wilson 0, A Gledhill 12, P Hardwick 0*, Extras 8

J Smith 19.1-6-40-5, A Young 7-0-34-0, M Brown 12-4-42-5

Bardsey 122-3 in 27 overs

M Brown 71, T Loveridge 10, M Pieri 23*, T Clayton 8, G Hopton 0*, Extras 10

G Boulton 6-0-20-0, P Hardwick 7-1-26-1, N Spragg 3-0-26-0, T Stead 6-0-28-1, A Gledhill 5-1-13-1

Steeton had a disastrous day and batting first were dismissed for just 120 runs in 38.1 overs. Opening the innings David Robinson top-scored with an excellent 41 runs, scored from 84 deliveries with 6 boundaries. David shared a strong 2nd wicket partnership of 49 runs with South African born Kiwi Ian Page, who faced 44 balls for his 30 runs, which included 5 fours. From 59 runs for 2 wickets the middle order collapsed and Alex Gledhill (12) batting at No10 was the only other batsman to score double figures. For Bardsey Smith (5-40) & Brown (5-42) shared the wickets.

Bardsey knocked-off the runs with relative ease – Brown opening the batting and adding 71 runs to his 5 wickets. They only lost 3 wickets, with a single wicket each for Paul Hardwick (1-26), Alex Gledhill (1-13) & Tom Stead (1-28). Keeper Neil Wilson had another stumping, and overseas player Ian Page took a catch & was awarded the fielding point. Bardsey had scored 122 runs for 3 wickets in just 27 overs. Steeton lost by 7 wickets, and need to re-find their batting form if they are going to continue to push for promotion


8 June 2008 v Guiseley (A) in Waddilove Cup - Lost by 23 runs

Guiseley 234-5 in 45 overs

D Ross 94, A Waite 22, M Ross 18, J Finlay 14, A Belll 44, A Long 20*, D Pennett 4*, Extras 18

P Hardwick 9-1-49-1, T Stead 9-1-32-1, G Boulton 7-0-33-0, A Gledhill 9-0-39-2, A Luxton 7-0-39-0, N Spragg 4-0-30-1

Steeton 211-7 in 45 overs

D Robinson 30, A Luxton 57, I Page 1, N Spragg 27, J Akrigg 11, J Best 29, G Boulton 20, T Stead 16*, A Gledhill 3*, Extras 17

D Pennett 9-0-46-0, M Brown 8-0-47-2, A Paley 6-2-9-1, L Stockill 4-0-22-0, A Waite 9-0-45-1, C Wain 9-0-31-2

Batting first Guiseley scored 234 runs for 5 wickets in their 45 overs with opener Ross top-scoring with 94 runs. The pick of the Steeton bowlers was spinner Alex Gledhill, who took 2 wickets for 39 runs from 9 overs. There was a single wicket apiece for opening bowlers Paul Hardwick (1-49) & youngster Tom Stead (1-32), who both bowled their full complement of overs, and also a wicket for Neil Spragg (1-30). John Akrigg took a catch & Alex Gledhill took a return catch from his own bowling. At lunch Steeton would have to score at around 5½ to remain in the cup.

Steeton’s reply began well with an opening partnership of 57 runs before David Robinson (30) was unluckily run out. David had scored his 30 runs from 44 deliveries with 5 boundaries. His opening partner Andrew Luxton (57) went on to top-score with a solid half-century. Andrew’s 57 runs came from 85 balls faced with 7 fours. Steeton’s middle order contributed consistent runs, but they were never quite up with the run rate. Skipper Jon Best (29), Neil Spragg (27) Gary Boulton (20), Tom Stead (16*) & John Akrigg (11) all scored well, but no-one was able to give the innings enough momentum. Steeton had only lost 7 wickets, but they could only manage 211 runs in their 45 overs – so crash out of the Waddilove Cup losing by 23 runs.


14 June 2008 v Calverley (A) - Winning Draw (4-2)

Steeton 245-1 in 50 overs

R Atkins 119*, A Luxton 59, J Akrigg 62*. Extras 5

S Franklin 12-2-69-0, B Wilson 5-1-16-0, G Lee 16-3-72-0, J Hudson 7-0-51-0, S Alred 10-1-35-1

Calverley 239-7 in 50 overs

S Alred 4, I Mirza 13, B King 10, J Thornhill 18, S Bashir 40, G Lee 107*, A Alred 6, N Thornton 1, S Franklin 18*, Extras 22

P Hardwick 12-4-42-1, T Stead 10-1-59-2, N Spragg 5-2-20-0, G Boulton 16-0-62-3, A Gledhill 7-0-40-1

Batting first at Victoria Park, Steeton started cautiously and were 85 runs without loss at drinks. The scoring rate increased with opener Richard Atkins unbeaten with 119* runs not out, from 161 balls faced with 14 boundaries. His opening partner Andrew Luxton also had a half-century, with 59 runs scored from 101 balls, which included 8 fours. Richard & Andrew had put together a great opening partnership of 129 runs. Batting at No3 John Akrigg upped the rate with and faced just 49 deliveries for an unbeaten 62* runs, which included 1 six & 5 fours. At lunch Steeton had scored 245 runs for 1 wicket in their 50 overs.

In reply Calverley were reduced to 115 runs for 5 wickets, by fine bowling from Gary Boulton, who clean-bowled all his victims, and finished with 3 wickets at a cost of 62 runs. Opening the bowling youngster Tom Stead broke the Calverley opening partnership and finished with 2 wickets for 59 runs from 10 overs. Alex Gledhill (1-40) & Paul Hardwick (1-42) took a single wicket each. For Calverley Lee scored 107* runs – the second centurian of the match – and his aggressive hitting brought the match to a closed finale. With 7 wickets down Calverley finished just 6 runs shy of the Steeton target. Calverley had scored 239 runs for 7 wicket in their 50 overs and Steeton were thankful to come away with a 4-2 winning draw. Steeton are now 3rd in the league behind Silsden & Knaresborough.


21 June 2008 v Colton Institute (H) - Rained-Off (1-1)

Steeton 1pt

Rained Off

Colton Institute 1pt

Rained Off

Rain meant no play was possible in this fixture – no other clubs in the league managed to get any play


28 June 2008 v Follifoot (A) - Winning draw (4-2)

Steeton 246-8 in 50 overs

A Atkins 33, A Luxton 0, J Akrigg 133, I Page 13, N Spragg 8, J Best 23, T Stead 3, G Boulton 15, A Gledhill 6*, N Wilson 1*, Extras 11

D Bradley 17-2-76-2, C Morrison 10-2-56-3, R Procter 7-1-38-0, M Richards 11-2-39-2, S Bridson 5-0-31-0

Follifoot 200-7 in 50 overs

M Stanford 48, C Dawson 1, M Halmshaw 77, T Bailey 4, P Miller 6, D Bradley 21, P Angove 19, S Bridson 2*, C Morrison 4*, Extras 18

P Hardwick 15-4-49-0, G Boulton 21-2-76-3, A Gledhill 6-0-32-2, N Spragg 4-1-15-0, T Stead 4-1-21-2

Steeton had a convincing 4-2 winning draw at Rudding Park. Batting first Steeton got off to a bad start losing the in-form Andrew Luxton without troubling the scorers. There followed a fine 2nd wicket stand of 103 runs between opener Richard Atkins (33) & John Akrigg (133). Richard’s 33 runs came at a steady rate from 74 deliveries with 1 four. By contrast John crashed 7 sixes & 14 fours as he faced just 134 balls for a fantastic 133 runs. John shared a good 5 wicket partnership of 52 runs with skipper Jon Best (23), but in looking for quick runs the only other batsmen to make double figures were Gary Boulton (15) & overseas player Ian Page (13). At lunch Steeton had scored 246 runs for 8 wickets in their 50 overs.

Steeton’s quest for an outright win was stifled by Follifoot’s 2nd wicket pair: Stanford (48) & Halmshaw (77), who compiled 127 runs. Gary Boulton’s great season with the ball continued as he took another 3 wickets for 76 runs from 21 overs. With a brace of wickets each youngster Tom Stead (2-21) & spinner Alex Gledhill (2-32), took the other wickets to fall. Behind the stumps keeper Neil Wilson was in sparkling form with a further 2 stumpings & 2 catches, bringing his season’s total to 24 victims with 13 of those stumped! Skipper Jon Best & Andrew Luxton also took catches, and Ian Page collected another fielding point. Follifoot passed the ¾ score of 185 runs comfortably and batted out for a losing draw with 3 wickets to spare. Follifoot had scored 200 runs for 7 wickets in their 50 overs, and Steeton collect 4 points to maintain their challenge on the league leaders.


5 July 2008 v New Rover (H) - Abandoned (1-1)

Steeton 237-5 in 45 overs

R Atkins 99, A Luxton 26, J Akrigg 46, I Page 19, N Spragg 23, J Best 0*, G Boulton 2*, Extras 22

A Waz 10-1-41-3, S Ur-Rehman 15-0-55-1, R Kimber 10-1-44-1, H Mir 9-0-63-0, T Rhea 1-0-13-0

New Rover 68-2 in 8.5 overs

M Dinsdale 9, A Ijaz 48, M Richmond 4*, C Bowen 0*, Extras 7

P Hardwick 4-0-47-0, T Stead 4-1-15-1, N Spragg 0.5-0-6-1

Rain shortened the match to 45 overs a side before a fine spell allowed Steeton to complete their first innings. The knock of opener Richard Atkins was pivotal to the Steeton innings, but he unfortunately fell just short of what would have been his 3rd century of the season – with a tantalising 99 runs. Richard had faced 119 deliveries and hit 2 sixes & 9 fours before he was bowled for 99 runs. He shared an solid opening stand of 65 runs with Andrew Luxton, who contributed 26 runs & a good 2nd wicket stand of 80 runs with John Akrigg (46). John scored his 46 runs from just 45 deliveries & hit 1 six & 5 fours. Richard went on to share a 3rd wicket partnership of 39 runs with overseas player Ian Page (19) & a 4th wicket partnership of 49 runs with Neil Spragg (23). For New Rover Waz took 3 wickets for 41 runs, but at lunch Steeton had scored 237 runs for 5 wickets in 45 overs.

In reply New Rover could only manage 8.5 overs of their innings before the heavens opened and the match had to be abandoned. After 8.5 overs New Rover had scored 68 runs and lost 2 wickets, so the match was nicely poised for an interesting finish. Neil Spragg (1-6) & Tom Stead (1-15) had taken a wicket apiece with catches for Tom Stead & Alex Gledhill, and for New Rover opener Ijaz had scored 48 runs. The heavy downpour quickly made the pitch unplayable and both sides have to settle for a single point each.


12 July 2008 v Upper Wharfedale (A) - Losing Draw (1-5)

Upper Wharfedale 234-9 in 50 overs

B Way 81, J Freebury 55, A Foulds 30, J Starkey 0, L Barrett 3, C Baines 15, S Pearson 22, S Richardson 9*, D Daggett 3, R Foster 2, J Yeadon 0*, Extras 14

G Boulton 3-0-29-0, T Stead 12-1-52-2, N Spragg 2-0-22-0, A Gledhill 14-0-68-2, D Cook 17-0-49-3, J Best 2-0-3-2

Steeton 144-9 in 50 overs

R Atkins 5, A Luxton 18, J Akrigg 7, I Page 18, N Spragg 45, J Higginson 4, J Best 0, T Stead 9, G Boulton 25, A Gledhill 2*, D Cook 0*, Extras 14

J Yeadon 14-3-40-3, S Pearson 13-6-26-1, D Daggett 12-1-40-0, B Way 11-4-32-4

Steeton 1st XI had a losing draw (1-5) at Upper Wharfedale. Batting first Upper Wharfedale scored 234 runs for the loss of 9 wickets in their 50 overs. Steeton won the toss & had no hesitation in inserting Upper Wharfedale on a wet, green track. However, Wharfedale’s openers smashed 92 runs from the first 10 overs. The usually reliable, Gary Boulton went for 29 runs from 3 overs & Neil Spragg for 22 runs from 2 overs. While the experienced bowlers were battered at one end, youngster Tom Stead (2-52) bowled well at the other end. Upper Wharfedale had a 108 run opening stand before Freebury (55) fell to Alex Gledhill. Upper Wharfedale’s Australian Way (81) continued to score quickly with Foulds (30). Steeton’s 2nd XI talisman, Dave Cook was introduced immediately after Tom Stead’s opening spell & he stemmed the flow of runs. The irrepressible Dave bowled extremely well, using his subtle variations of pace & deservedly collected 3 wickets for 49 runs from his 17 overs. Alex Gledhill also bowled well; removing both openers & collecting 2 wickets for 68 runs from 14 overs, as wickets began to fall steadily as the track deteriorated. In his comeback ball following a lengthy recovery from injury, skipper Jon Best also collected 2 wickets for 3 runs from 2 overs. Steeton had caught 8 catches: 2 apiece for keeper Julian Higginson, Alex Gledhill & John Akrigg, and one each for Neil Spragg & Dave Cook. At tea Upper Wharfedale were happy that they had scored around 100 runs more than they should on a track such as this.

Steeton’s reply faltered as the the wicket became increasingly worse, with occasional balls going through at shoulder height off a good length. Both Andrew Luxton & overseas player Ian Page scored 18 runs, with Neil Spragg the mainstay of the innings – scoring 45 runs. Gary Boulton attempted to get Steeton to 2 points in a late blast – scoring 25 runs from 31 deliveries, before he was run out. It was down to Alex Gledhill & Dave Cook to bat out the last 7 overs to ensure Steeton collected a single point from this match. For Wharfedale, Yeadon (3-40) & Way (4-32) were the pick of the bowling. Steeton held on to finish with 144 runs for 9 wickets in 50 overs – still 32 runs adrift of the ¾ score.


19 July 2008 v Tong Park (H) - Won by 8 wickets

Tong Park 131 a/o in 31.1 overs

J Druce 19, P Hanson 20, D Groom 15, R Barraclough 14, G Wilkinson 21, S Kirkley 0, C Shepherd 0, S Young 13, C Holdsworth 8, P Murden 5*, M Scott 1, Extras 15

J Best 8-1-26-1, T Stead 6-1-26-0, G Boulton 18-7-46-3, A Gledhill 16.3-7-25-6

Steeton 132-2 in 31.1 overs

A Luxton 9, R Atkins 56*, J Akrigg 33, I Page 23*, Extras 11

M Scott 16-4-56-0, C Shepherd 4-1-22-1, G Wilkinson 3-0-18-0, S Young 8-0-31-1, J Druce 0.1-0-1-0

Tong Park lost the toss & were asked to bat first on a damp track at Steeton. Tight Steeton bowling meant they lost wickets regularly & were restricted to 131 runs all out in 48.3 overs. The pick of the bowling was the left-arm spin of Alex Gledhill, who collected an impressive 6 wickets for 25 runs from 16.3 overs. Gary Boulton (3-46) was again back in the wickets with a further 3 wickets to add to his season’s tally of 37 wickets, and skipper Jon Best (1-26) took the other wicket to fall. Steeton took 8 catches in total, with 2 catches for Jon Best and a single catch each for Andrew Luxton, Dave Cook, Neil Spragg, Alex Gledhill, Richard Atkins & keeper Neil Wilson. Top scorer for Tong Park was Wilkinson with 21 runs.

In reply Steeton’s innings was anchored by opener Richard Atkins, who batted right through & finished with an undefeated 56* runs. Richard’s 56* runs came from 95 deliveries & included 1 six & 8 fours. Richard shared a 2nd wicket stand of 74 runs with John Akrigg, who faced 55 balls for 33 runs, which included 1 six & 4 fours. Finally Richard shared an undefeated 3rd wicket partnership of 41 runs with overseas player Ian Page, who smashed a quickfire 23* runs not out. Steeton had passed the Tong Park target with 18 overs & 8 wickets to spare – they had scored 132 runs for 2 wickets in 31.1 over to win by 8 wickets & collect all 6 points from this encounter.


26 July 2008 v Olicanian (A) - Winning Draw (4-2)

Steeton 246-6 in 50 overs

A Luxton 47, R Atkins 29, J Akrigg 75, I Page 3, N Spragg 63, J Best 6, G Boulton 4*, T Stead 0*, Extras 19

B Hughes 25-4-100-2, P Howell 5-0-22-0, M House 15-1-79-4, N Peterson 5-0-28-0

Olicanian 240-7 in 50 overs

D Britton 4, B Clark 29, N Peterson 76, E Brown 94, R Wheeler 9, J Hudson 5, R Broadley 0, P Howell 3*, A Bailey 1*, Extras 19

J Best 12-3-13-5, T Stead 5-1-29-0, A Luxton 6-0-36-0, G Boulton 8-2-27-1, A Gledhill 4-0-19-0, D Cook 6-0-33-0, N Spragg 9-0-48-1

Batting first Steeton 1st XI had a good opening stand of 56 runs between Andrew Luxton (47) & Richard Atkins (29). Richard was first out having faced 49 balls for his 29 runs, which included 5 boundaries. Andrew went on to share a 2nd wicket stand of 39 runs with John Akrigg (75), before being the 2nd batsman out. Andrew scored his 47 runs from 75 deliveries with 7 boundaries. John Akrigg top-scored with a fine 75 runs scored for 90 balls with 8 boundaries. John shared an excellent 4th wicket partnership of 105 runs with Neil Spragg, who contributed 63 runs. Neil’s quickfire 63 runs came from just 61 balls with 9 fours. Steeton scored 246 runs for 6 wickets in their 50 overs.

The main feature of the Olicanian innings was a 3rd wicket stand of 149 runs between Peterson (76) & Brown (94). Skipper Jon Best was the pick of the bowlers with a 5-wicket haul. Jon bowled 12 overs and took 5 wickets for 31 runs. There was a single wicket each for Gary Boulton (1-27) & Neil Spragg (1-48), and catches for Gary Boulton, Dave Cook & a return catch form his own bowling for Jon Best. The match came down to a very close finish after that 3rd wicket partnership was finally broken, and Olicanian were 240 runs for 7 wickets in their 50 overs – just 6 runs short! Steeton are thankful to collect 4 points from a winning draw.


2 August 2008 v Silsden (H) - Lost by 158 runs

Silsden 249-8 in 50 overs

M Pinniger 52, C Meehan 41, S Nadeem 31, Y Ali 17, L Bilborough 5, Z Quasim 62, C Thornton 6*, A Pullen 0, N Bradbury 0, Extras 34

J Best 11-1-61-3, T Stead 3-0-18-0, N Spragg 19.4-4-92-2, G Boulton 15.2-5-54-2

Steeton 91 a/o in 30.3 overs

A Luxton 44, R Atkins 1, J Akrigg 12, I PAge 0, N Spragg 10, J Best 0, T Stead 0, G Boulton 1*, A Gledhill 14, D Cook 0, N Wilson 0, Extras 9

Z Quasim 13.3-4-27-6, D Wynn 7-2-35-1, Y Ali 3-0-10-0, S Nadeem 7-5-5-1, A Pullen 2-0-9-2

I was bemused when the original report written for this match caused great consternation at Silsden. The Silsden CC Committee reported it to the league, apparently because I had described as ‘foreign’ that contingent of Silsden players, who have been duly registered with the league as not being born in this country; and I
described as ‘defectors’, those Silsden players, who had started this season playing for Steeton. I explained that
it was those I described as ‘foreign’ & ‘defectors’ that had been instrumental in the defeat of Steeton. It baffles me why this should so upset the Silsden Committee – but I suppose a grossly obese lady would still be annoyed if she
was called ‘fat’…although it does not stop it being true!

So to assuage the delicate feelings of the Silsden CC Committee here is the edited version:-

Steeton 1st XI’s chances of promotion look to have been dashed, when they were beaten by local rivals Silsden.
Silsden scored 249 runs for the loss of 8 wickets in their 50 overs. The pick of the Steeton bowlers was skipper
Jon Best, who worked hard for his 3 wickets at the cost of 61 runs. Neil Spragg (2-92) & Gary Boulton (2-54) also bowled well and collected 2 wickets each. Neil Spragg took 2 catches, keeper Neil Wilson had another stumping &
there were also catches for overseas player Ian Page & Andrew Luxton. Steeton’s reply was led by opener Andrew Luxton, who grafted hard for a fine 44 runs. With 5 ducks, the other Steeton batsmen were unable to stay with
Andrew, and only John Akrigg (12), Neil Spragg (10) & Alex Gledhill (14) made double figures. Steeton were all out for just 91 runs with 18 overs of the match remaining. Steeton lost by 158 runs, and are now in 3rd place in the
league table: 8 points behind Silsden & 13 points behind leaders Knaresborough.

Can I refer any interested parties to lines 13 & 14 of Kipling’s poem If


9 August 2008 v Harden (A) - Won by 6 wickets

Harden 110-5 in 25 overs

G Topp 16, N Kettle 1, A Bairstow 1, L Slown 16, R Verity 12, J Roper 32*, R Wear 25*, Extras 7

J Best 13-0-51-3, G Boulton 12-4-53-2

Steeton 114-4 in 20.5 overs

R Atkins 14, A Luxton 2, G Boulton 10, I Page 62*, N Spragg 6, J Procter 12*, Extras 8

P Leng 6.5-2-42-2, R Wear 3-1-17-0, S Bateman 4-0-21-2, C Wintersgill 4-0-20-0, A Bailey 3-0-8-0

With all the other matches in the league cancelled due to the rain, Steeton kept their promotion chances alive with 6 points at Harden. Steeton played a 25 over match & were lucky enough to win the toss and ask Harden to bat first. Harden could only muster 110 runs for 5 wickets in their 25 overs, with Roper top-scoring with 32* runs. Skipper Jon Best bowled 13 over and took 3 wickets for 51 runs, and Gary Boulton bowled 12 overs and took 2 wickets for 53 runs. Keeper Neil Wilson & overseas player Ian Page took a single catch each.

In reply Steeton scored 114 runs for 4 wickets in 20.5 overs, to win by 6 wickets. Overseas player Ian Page (62*) was in fine form as he struck 10 fours & a six in an unbeaten 62* runs. Ian was assisted by Richard Atkins (14) & Gary Boulton (10). Steeton have now moved to 1 point behind Silsden & 7 behind leaders Knaresborough, who they play next week


16 August 2008 v Knaresborough (H) - Losing Draw (1-5)

Knaresborough 235-8 in 50 overs

A Pryor 75, C Williams 45, D Tormey 59, J Tattersal 14, J Corcaran 6, R Geary 0, S Bridson 10, N Marshall 1*, R Tattersal 1, Extras 24

P Hardwick 13-1-63-3, G Boulton 12-2-59-1, A Gledhill 6-0-26-0, T Stead 6-0-18-0, N Spragg 4-0-20-0, A Luxton 9-0-41-4

Steeton 127-9 in 50 overs

R Atkins 0, A Luxton 4, J Akrigg 43, I Page 2, N Spragg 15, J Procter 2, T Stead 39, G Boulton 6, A Gledhill 5, N Wilson 4*, P Hardwick 0*, Extras 7

M Baxendall 21-14-28-5, D Tormey 6-3-11-0, N Marshall 6-0-32-0, S Bridson 13-6-36-4, J Corcaran 4-0-17-0

With 9 wickets down Steeton hung on for a 1 point draw against top-of-the-table Knaresborough. Knaresborough batted first and with the aid of some spilled catches their opening pair of Pryor (75) & Williams (45) put on an opening stand of 119 runs, and their No3 batsman Tormey (59) continued the solid scoring. Knaresborough had scored 235 runs for the loss of 8 wickets in their 50 overs. The pick of the bowling was the leg-spin of Andrew Luxton, who bowled 9 overs and collected 4 wickets for 41 runs as he ripped through the Knaresborough middle order. Opener Paul Hardwick (3-63) was also in fine from, and the other wicket fell to the dependable Gary Boulton (1-59). John Akrigg, Neil Spragg & James Procter all collected a single catch.

Steeton’s reply got off to a disastrous start losing Richard Atkins (0) out LBW in the first over, and Andrew Luxton (4) & overseas player Ian Page (2) soon followed – both skying simple catches to leave Steeton at just 15 runs with 3 wickets down. Knaresborough’s 60-year-old opening bowler, Baxendall (5-28), took the first 5 Steeton wickets & bowled 14 maidens! John Akrigg (43) & Neil Spragg (15) steadied the innings with a 4th wicket partnership of 45 runs, before Neil was well caught driving hard at silly mid off. John Akrigg top scored with a belligerent 43 runs, scored from 89 deliveries with 3 sixes & 4 fours, before he was well caught by a diving catch on the long-off boundary. In the late middle order Tom Stead was the only other batsman to make any major impact on the score, with 39 runs scored from 64 deliveries with 6 boundaries, before he too ‘holed-out’ at long-off. With too many of the Steeton batsmen throwing their wickets away it was down to Neil Wilson (4*) & Paul Hardwick (0*) to bat out the last 5 overs for a 1-point losing draw. Steeton finished with 127 runs for 9 wickets in their 50 overs – still 49 runs from the ¾ score. Steeton’s hopes of promotion are fading fast, they could only collect a single point against top team Knaresborough, and in 2nd place Silsden had a comfortable win.


23 August 2008 v Bardsey (A) - Losing Draw (2-4)

Bardsey 200-9 in 50 overs

T Loveridge 40, M Brown 17, M Pieri 31, S Bowes 15, P Pratt 3, G Hopton 28*, P Franklin 7, D Hartley 16, T Clayton 5, J Davies 3, N Ryder 1*, Extras 34

J Best 14-4-52-3, P Hardwick 8-3-23-0, A Luxton 7-2-21-1, G Boulton 15-3-62-3, A Gledhill 6-2-14-2

Steeton 168-7 in 50 overs

R Atkins 14, A Luxton 5, J Akrigg 0, I Page 25, N Spragg 1, T Stead 2, J Best 18, G Boulton 73*, A Gledhill 22*, Extras 8

J Davies 20-5-70-4, N Ryder 10-1-40-0, M Brown 15-5-48-2, D Hartley 5-4-4-1

Steeton had a 2-4 losing draw at Bardsey. Batting first Bardsey scored 200 runs for 9 wickets in their 50 overs. While Bardsey lost wickets regularly, with Loveridge top-scoring with just 40 runs, the new batsmen were able to maintain the momentum & a total of 200 runs on a difficult pitch was more than they should have been allowed. The pick of the Steeton bowling was skipper Jon Best, who collected 3 wickets for 52 runs from 14 overs. The reliable Gary Boulton (3-62) also added a further 3 wickets to an excellent season’s tally. Alex Gledhill also bowled well with 2 wickets for just 14 runs from 6 overs. The other wicket fell to Andrew Luxton (1-21). There were catches for Paul Hardwick, overseas player Ian Page, Gary Boulton & skipper Jon Best, and keeper Neil Wilson added a further stumping to his season’s total.

In reply Steeton’s top-order collapsed to the fine bowling of Davies (4-70): 36 runs for 5 wickets was soon reduced to 75 runs for 7 wickets, and Steeton were on the brink of an ignominious defeat. Only overseas player Ian Page (25) & opener Richard Atkins (14) managed double figures. However Gary Boulton showed his credentials as an all-rounder – that he could still wield the bat as well as take wickets. Gary had already bowled 15 overs taking 3 wickets & taken a catch…and now he scored 73* runs including 18 runs smashed from the last over once the match was ‘safe’ Gary faced 93 deliveries, hitting 3 sixes & 8 fours in his undefeated 73* runs. Along with Alex Gledhill (22*) Gary constructed a new Club record unbroken 8th wicket partnership of 93 runs to salvage 2 points. Steeton closed on 168 runs for 7 wickets in their 50 overs


30 August 2008 v Calverley (H) - Won by 6 wickets

Calverley 206-6 in 50 overs

S Alred 28, I Mirza 24, S Franklin 9, B King 28, G Lee 9, S Bashir 45, A Alred 34*, N Thornton 7*, Extras 22

J Best 10-1-46-0, T Stead 8-2-33-0, G Boulton 15-5-49-4, P Hardwick 7-0-31-0, A Gledhill 10-2-31-0

Steeton 210-4 in 46.2 overs

R Atkins 95, A Luxton 10, J Akrigg 14, I Page 13, N Spragg 48*, G Boulton 19*, Extras 11

S Bashir 8-2-14-1, T Simpson 3-0-16-0, I Mirza 16-2-58-1, B Wilson 7-1-25-1, G Lee 8-1-42-1, S Franklin 4-0-36-0, B King 0.2-0-8-0

Calverley batted first on a green Steeton track and scored a respectable 206 runs for 6 wickets in their 50 overs. For Calverley, Bashir top-scored with 45 runs before he was run out by John Akrigg. Neil Spragg also had a run out, but all the bowling wickets fell to the remarkable Gary Boulton (4-49), who has now taken 50 wickets in a tremendous season with the ball. Gary bowled 15 overs, 5 of which were maidens, with all his 4 wickets being out caught, and he conceded 49 runs at slightly over 3 runs per over. 2 of the catches were taken by overseas player Ian Page & 2 by Alex Gledhill, for which he was awarded a fielding point.

Steeton’s reply was led by by the prolific Richard Atkins (95), who  has now amassed 651 runs so far in his debut season. Richard anchored the innings and he deserved another century, but had to settle for 95 runs scored from 120 deliveries with 3 sixes & 12 fours. Steeton’s top-order all scored double figures: Andrew Luxton (10), John Akrigg (14) & overseas player Ian Page (13), but it was only in Neil Spragg (48*) that Richard found a dependable partner. Together Richard & Neil had a 4th wicket partnership of 72 runs, before Richard was caught out on the long off boundary. Neil went on to share a match-winning unbroken 5th wicket stand of 42 runs with Gary Boulton, who capped another successful day with an unbeaten 19* runs. Neil scored his unbeaten 48* runs from just 41 deliveries, and hit 1 six & 7 fours, including hitting the winning runs! Steeton scored 210 runs for 4 wickets in 46.2 overs to win by 6 wickets with 3 overs to spare, and so collect all 6 points from this entertaining encounter.


6 September 2008 v Colton Institute (A) - Rained-Off (1-1)

Steeton 1pt

Rained Off

Colton Institute 1pt

Rained Off

With a waterlogged pitch Colton Institute had offered to call the match off in the morning, but Steeton insisted on travelling to Colton. We returned shortly afterwards without being able to get any cricket played. Both sides collect 1 point each.


13 September 2008 v Follifoot (H) - Lost by 7 wickets

Steeton 105 a/o in 42 overs

R Atkins 6, A Luxton 9, J Akrigg 3, I Page 7, N Spragg 3, T Stead 3, J Best 5, G Boulton 44, A Gledhill 10, N Wilson 7, P Hardwick 1*, Extras 7

D Bradley 21-11-43-6, C Morrison 14-4-37-1, R Procter 7-1-18-3

Follifoot 111-3 in 26 overs

M Stanford 24, P Miller 24, M Halmshaw 38*, T Bailey 4, C Dawson 7*, Extras 14

J Best 5-0-33-0, G Boulton 3-1-16-0, N Spragg 9-3-16-2, A Gledhill 8-3-20-1, T Stead 1-0-19-0

Steeton had been offered a promotion ‘lifeline’ by Knaresborough’s unfortunate oversight, but this second chance
was cruelly snatched from their grasp by a rampant Follifoot side. Losing the toss on a damp track was not the start that Steeton had hoped for. The top order batsmen were blitzed by Follifoot’s overseas player Bradley (6-43) and were quickly reduced to 7 wickets down and just 46 runs on the board. No-one from the first 7 batsmen managed double figures. Gary Boulton has been in good form with the bat recently and this continued as he top-scored with an excellent 44 runs scored from 61 deliveries with 1 six & 5 fours. Gary shared an 8th wicket partnership of 33 runs with Alex Gledhill (10) & then a 9th wicket stand of 19 runs with Neil Wilson (7). When Gary was well caught at extra cover Steeton were soon all out for 105 runs in 42 overs.

Follifoot’s reply got off to a rapid start scoring 47 runs from 8 overs before losing their first wicket, to the excellent bowling of Neil Spragg. Neil removed both openers and conceded just 16 runs from his 9 overs, and he has now joined an elite group of Steeton bowlers who have taken 300 1st XI wickets. In tandem with Neil, Alex Gledhill also bowled a tight spell and was rewarded with a single wicket for 20 runs from 8 overs. Paul Hardwick at point took an excellent high catch, Tom Stead snatched a hard-hit drive at mid-on & skipper Jon Best also pouched a comfortable catch at mid-off. For Steeton to defend such a meagre total they would have had to bowl, field & catch to the highest standard, but with an expensive opening attack and 3 half-chances not being caught they were well short of their best. Follifoot scored 111 runs for 3 wickets in just 26 overs, and leapfrog Steeton in the final league match. Steeton lost by 7 wickets and now must spend another year in the 2nd division.


1st XI3rd XI

Second XI 2008

19 April 2008 v Collingham & Linton (H) - Rained-Off (1-1)

Steeton 1pt

Called-off

Collingham & Linton 1 pt

Called off

In a ‘damp squid’ start to the season Steeton’s square was waterlogged and totally unfit for any cricket. This fixture was called-off in the morning & both sides collect a single point.


26 April 2008 v Rawdon (A) - Lost by 31 runs

Rawdon 139 a/o in 42.1 overs

P Smith 13, M Windle 26, T Sumpner 8, C Walsh 7, M Longley 0, J Hughes 14, J Doidge 10, C Goldthorpe 1, J Hill 4, M Hill 12, G Myers 4*, Extras 40

P Hardwick 9.1-0-42-1, R Suri 4-1-16-0, T Stead 7-1-27-3, D Cook 12-4-30-4, P Akrigg 10-6-11-2

Steeton 108 a/o in 35 overs

M Wilson 0, A Hardwick 18, T Stead 13, J Higginson 34, M Thomas 10, C Karakiozakis 0, R Wynn 1, D Cook 17, P Hardwick 1, R Suri 1*, P Akrigg 0, Extras 13

J Hill 9-3-26-1, M Longley 6-3-19-1, J Hughes 11-2-23-2, J Doidge 9-0-33-6

In stark contrast to the 1st XI, our 2nd XI lost away at Rawdon and have now only collected a single point from our first 2 matches. Batting first Rawdon had a good opening stand of 52 runs between Smith (13) & Windle (26). Once the opening stand had been broken wickets started to tumble and they were dismissed for 139 runs all out in 42.1 overs – a total bolstered by 40 extras! Dave Cook was the pick of the bowlers with 4 wickets for 30 runs from 12 overs. Left-armer Tom Stead also picked-up 3 wickets at a cost of 27 runs from 7 overs. Spinner Phil Akrigg bowled 10 tight overs and collected 2 wickets for 11 runs, and the other wicket fell to Paul Hardwick (1-42). Robert Wynn took 2 catches that earned him 2 league fielding points, and another league fielding point went to Adam Hardwick, who also took 1 catch. Keeper Julian Higginson took a catch behind the wickets & Mick Wilson also pouched 1 catch.

With a victory target of only 140 runs our 2nd XI must have been fairly confident at the lunch interval, but we lost key wickets regularly to tight Rawdon bowling and were dismissed for just 108 runs in 35 overs. A key moment in the innings was when top-scorer Julian Higginson was adjudged LBW for 34 runs scored from 60 deliveries with 5 boundaries. The other batsmen to reach double figures were Adam Hardwick (18), Dave Cook (17), Tom Stead (13) & Matthew Thomas (10). For Rawdon, Doidge took 6 wickets for 33 run. With only 1 point from this opening part of the season, if our 2nd XI are to add to their hat-trick of championships they are going to have to do it the hard way!


3 May 2008 v Otley (H) - Won by 7 wickets

Otley 127 a/o in 49.3 overs

J Atkinson 9, G Wolfenden 25, D Taylor 5, M O’Grady 0, J Brough 15, M Wilkinson 23, A Lazarus 15, L North 8, R Holleran 4, M Gray 0, K Pullen 1*, Extras 23

P Hardwick 16.3-10-15-6, R Suri 5-0-24-0, T Stead 9-2-24-1, P Akrigg 8-2-29-0, D Cook 11-5-21-3

Steeton 128-3 in 30.5 overs

M Wilson 0, A Hardwick 0, C Meehan 65*, J Higginson 26, T Stead 19*, Extras 18

J Holleran 10.5-2-36-2, K Pullen 7-1-19-0, M Gray 9-2-26-1, J Brough 3-0-29-0, M Wilkinson 1-0-1-0

The Steeton 2nd XI Juggernaut is once again on-a-roll…it has taken it 2 weeks to even find 1st gear! The demolition of Otley was comprehensive. Batting first Otley struggled to cope with the fiery pace of opening bowler Paul Hardwick. Paul had sorted-out his range from last week and bowled 16½ fast, accurate overs that conceded only 15 runs as he collected 6 wickets. The green track also suited Dave Cook’s style of bowling, and he helped himself to 3 wickets for just 21 runs from 11 overs. Tom Stead (1-24) took the other wicket to fall, and there was a catch and a stumping for keeper Julian Higginson & a well-judged high catch for Matthew Thomas. At lunch Otley must have been disappointed to only have had 127 runs on the board, when with 12 overs of their innings to go they had been 95 run for 4 wickets .

Steeton’s reply was not convincing with both openers collecting ducks! At No3 Chris Meehan played a masterful, unbeaten innings of 65* runs, including 1 six & 7 fours from 91 deliveries. Chris shared a 4th wicket stand of 61 runs with Julian Higginson, who scored 26 runs. When Julian played-on Otley possibly thought they had a chance, but Tom Stead was in impressive form as he stroked 4 boundaries in an unbeaten knock of 19* runs. Tom &a Chris shared a match winning stand of 43 runs. Steeton had scored 128 runs for 3 wickets from 30.5 overs to secure their first win of the season, by 7 wickets with 19 overs to spare, and collect 6 precious points.


10 May 2008 v Burley-in-Wharfedale (A) - Won by 5 wickets

Burley-in-Wharfedale 186-7 in 50 overs

M Robinson 13, G Ross 12, D Brian 3, M Cooper 35, D Healey 12, P Sumner 0, W Normington 61*, K Revis 12, A Munkhouse 12*, Extras 26

R Suri 6-3-7-2, C Karakiozakis 9-0-38-0, T Stead 12-1-49-1, L Spragg 12-2-44-0, D Cook 11-2-34-4

Steeton 187-5 in 48.2 overs

M Wilson 83, A Hardwick 32, D Robinson 4, J Higginson 26, T Stead 5, M Thomas 11*, D Cook 12*, Extras 14

M Cooper 8-1-27-0, J Colclough 6-0-24-0, M McCloud 17-1-53-1, G Ross 4-0-23-0, P Sumner 8.2-1-36-2, A Munkhouse 5-1-13-2

Burley-in-Wharfedale batted first and scored 186 runs for 7 wickets, thanks mainly to Normington (61). Dave Cook was again in the wickets with his 11 overs costing 34 runs as he collected 4 wickets. Ross Suri finally had some luck with his bowling & collected 2 wickets for just 7 runs from 6 overs. Tom Stead (1-39) took the other wicket to fall. Adam Hardwick took a catch & keeper Julian Higginson had a stumping.

Steeton’s reply got of to the best of starts with a fine opening stand of 101 runs between Mick Wilson (83) and Adam Hardwick (32). Mick Wilson’s first runs on the season were 83 runs from 110 deliveries with 10 boundaries, and Adam faced 74 balls for his 32 runs which included 5 fours, before he was stumped out. Julian Higginson continued the run chase with 26 runs from just 29 balls faced with 4 boundaries, and the total was finally overhauled by Matthew Thomas (11*) & Dave Cook (12*). Dave was in a hurry as only needed 4 balls and hit a four & a six to win the match. The Steeton juggernaut had scored 187 runs for 5 wicket in 48.2 overs to win by 5 wickets with 10 balls to spare. Last year’s champions are beginning to move ominously up the table – they now have 13 points and are joint 4th place in the league.


17 May 2008 v Guiseley (H) - Losing Draw (2-4)

Guiseley 286-7 in 50 overs

C Fraser 48, S Yeates 17, H Reeve 57, A Bell 82, S Dickinson 40, N Fraser 5, A Perring 10, J Davey 9*, R Butterfield 2*, Extras 16

D Wynn 13-2-56-4, R Suri 7-2-28-0, T Stead 11-0-71-1, L Spragg 9-1-45-0, D Cook 7-0-49-1, R Wynn 3-0-23-1

Steeton 259-8 in 50 overs

M Wilson 12, A Hardwick 18, D Robinson 58, J Higginson 10, T Stead 88, M Thomas 5, R Wynn 28, D Cook 19*, L Spragg 0, D Wynn 0*

B Jones 10-3-25-0, A Perring 16-1-83-4, S Dickinson 15-1-76-2, R Butterfield 5-0-30-0, A Bell 4-0-28-0

Batting first Guiseley batted well and scored an impressive 286 runs for 7 wickets in their 50 overs, with Bell (82), Reeve (57), Fraser (48) & Dickinson (40). The pick of the bowlers was opener David Wynn, who collected 4 wickets for 56 runs from 13 overs. There was also a wicket apiece for skipper Robert Wynn (1-23), Dave Cook (1-49) & Tom Stead (1-71), and catches for Robert Wynn, Tom Stead & keeper Julian Higginson.

In reply Steeton’s opening batsmen, Mick Wilson (12) & Adam Hardwick (18), both got starts, but were unable to capitalise. When Julian Higginson (10) was out Steeton had lost 3 wickets with only 55 runs on the board, but then David Robinson (58) & Tom Stead (88) put together a great 4th wicket partnership of 124 runs. David scored his 58 runs from 86 deliveries with 5 boundaries, and Tom’s impressive innings of 88 runs came from 85 balls with 1 six & 9 fours. Wickets tumbled in search of quick runs, with skipper Robert Wynn scoring a quick-fire 28 runs & Dave Cook an unbeaten 19* runs. With 8 wickets down and well past the ¾ total Steeton decided the Guiseley total was unreachable and batted out for a losing draw (2-4). Steeton had scored 259 runs for 8 wickets from their 50 overs and collect 2 points from this losing draw.


18 May 2008 v Illingworth (A) in Birtwhistle Cup - Won by 2 wickets

Illingworth 192-5 in 45 overs

R Lockley 0, A Ingham 101*, C Fellows 2, T Conway 19, A Dixon 13, J Moorhouse 8, D Blooksby 20* Extras 29

D Wynn 9-2-37-1, R Suri 9-4-25-1, C Karakiozakis 7-2-16-1, T Stead 7-3-16-0, D Cook 5-0-44-1, L Spragg 8-0-33-1

Steeton 196-8 in 42.5 overs

M Wilson 57, A Hardwick 0, T Stead 78, J Higginson 0, R Wynn 1, M Thomas 0, D Cook 18, L Spragg 32*, D Wynn 2, C Karakiozakis 0*, Extras 8

S Lees 9-2-25-1, J Moorhouse 9-3-32-1, A Ingham 5-1-20-2, A Robertshaw 4.5-0-32-0. T Conway 7-1-45-2, R Lockley 9-1-38-2

Illingworth batted first & scored a respectable 192 runs for 5 wickets in their 45 overs, with Ingham (101*) scoring an unbeaten century. The wickets were spread evenly with Chris Karakiozakis (1-16), Ross Suri (1-25), Lee Spragg (1-33), David Wynn (1-37) & Dave Cook (1-44). There were catches for skipper Robert Wynn & Mick Wilson.

Steeton’s reply was led by Tom Stead, who followed his 88 runs on Saturday with 78 runs on Sunday – quite a prolific weekend! Tom’s 78 runs came from 98 deliveries with 10 boundaries. Tom shared a fantastic 2nd wicket stand of 123 runs with opener Mick Wilson (57), scored another half-century. Mick’s 57 runs coming from 81 balls faced and included 8 fours. Following a middle order collapse Dave Cook scored 18 runs & Lee Spragg scored 32* runs as Steeton passed the Illingworth total with 2 wickets & 2 overs to spare. Steeton had scored 196 runs for the loss of 8 wickets in 42.5 overs. Steeton 2nd XI progress to the second round of the Birtwhistle Cup, where they entertain Guiseley on 1st June.


24 May 2008 v Harden (A) - Won by 132 runs

Steeton 189 a/o in 49.1 overs

M Wilson 63, A Hardwick 30, T Stead 6, J Higginson 5, R Wynn 4, M Thomas 24, D Cook 39*, G Manthorp 0, D Wynn 0, R Suri 5, P Akrigg 1, Extras 12

M Hogg 15-4-61-2, R Hopwood 3-0-17-0, S Bateman 9-1-26-1, M Portlock 18-2-69-3, A Bailey 4.1-1-7-4

Harden 57 a/o in 25.3 overs

A Rushworth 14, M Portlock 22, J Riley 0, A Bailey 0, R Verity 1, T Cummings 0, S Bateman 9, S Gardner 6, R Hopwood 1, J Carnegie 0, M Hogg 0*, Extras 4

D Wynn 6-1-23-0, R Suri 6-1-15-1, P Akrigg 7.3-5-6-3, T Stead 6-2-11-5

Steeton batted first and on the back of an opening partnership of 83 runs they amassed a fine total of of 189 runs all out on the first ball of the final over. Mick Wilson (63) top-scored with another half-century & his opening partner Adam Hardwick scored 30 runs. Mick’s 63 runs were scored from 74 deliveries with 11 boundaries, and Adam’s 30 runs came from 65 balls faced with 5 fours. Steeton lost a few cheap wickets before Matthew Thomas (24) & Dave Cook (39*) added some late momentum. Matthew’s 24 runs came from 42 deliveries with 2 fours before being stumped, and Dave faced 43 balls for his unbeaten 39* runs, which included 5 boundaries. For Harden, Bailey bowled an excellent spell – taking 4 wickets for 7 runs.

In reply for Harden Rushworth (14) & Portlock (22) had a good opening stand of 39 runs, before a change of bowling brought Tom Stead into the attack. Wickets started to tumble as Tom ripped through the top of Harden’s batting order and he finished with a 5-wicket haul for 11 runs from 6 overs. The metronomic Phil Akrigg is back from holiday & bowled 7.3 overs, 5 of which were maidens, as he collected 3 wickets for 6 runs. Ross Suri (1-15) took the other wicket to fall, and opener David Wynn bowled fast & was unlucky to finish wicketless. Steeton’s fielders took some excellent catches with Mick Wilson’s sharp slip-catch earning him 2 fielding points & many compliments. Keeper Julian Higginson collected 2 good catches, and Gabe Manthorp (not wicket-keeping!) also took 2 well-judged catches. Adam Hardwick & Matthew Thomas also collected catches, and David Wynn ran out one of the Harden batsmen. From 39 runs for 1 wicket, Harden capitulated to 57 runs all out in 25.3 overs. Steeton won by 132 runs & collect all 6 points from this uneven contest.


31 May 2008 v Bilton (H) - Won by 3 wickets

Bilton 152-8 in 50 overs

A Warton 30, J Ford 30, C Coates 17, M Reynard 21, D Hardcastle 3, M Tyler 19, J Orton 3, L Mallinson2*, J Shrago 1, P Fletcher 1*, Extras 25

D Wynn 15-4-40-0, R Suri 8-4-19-1, L Spragg 4-0-17-0, D Cook 8-2-26-2, P Akrigg 15-6-30-4

Steeton 153-7 in 35.5 overs

M Wilson 2, A Hardwick 0, D Cook 54, R Wynn 51, P Barrett 24, J Higginson 11, M Thomas 0, L Spragg 7*, D Wynn 0*, Extras 4

M Raynard 10-1-39-2, P Fletcher 4-0-27-1, C Morley 5-1-32-3, J Shrago 11.5-2-38-0, J Orton 5-2-15-1

Steeton won the toss and asked Bilton to bat first on a slightly damp track at Summerhill Lane. Bilton batted cautiously and had only scored 26-0 after the first 15 overs, and were 70-1 at drinks. Steeton’s opening bowlers David Wynn (0-40) & Ross Suri (1-16) bowled fast & straight, but while the bat was beaten consistently only Ross was rewarded with a single wicket. Bilton’s wickets started to tumble to the bowling of Dave Cook (2-26), who claimed both of Bilton’s openers. The accurate spin of Phil Akrigg (4-30) then collected 4 wickets as the later batsmen tried to increase the scoring rate. Keeper Julian Higginson took 2 catches & a stumping, skipper Robert Wynn took a confident catch at mid off, but special mention must go to Adam Hardwick, who took an excellently judged low catch running in from the square leg boundary – Adam quite rightly was awarded a fielding point. With accurate bowling & sharp fielding, at lunch Bilton had been restricted to 152 runs for the loss of 8 wickets in their 50 overs. Bilton’s opening batters, Warton & Ford, were their joint top-scorers with 30 runs each.

Steeton’s reply started disastrously losing both of their openers with only 2 runs on the board. With Steeton’s strong batting line-up this brought together the experience of Dave Cook (54) & skipper Robert Wynn (51), who amassed a fine 3rd wicket partnership of 69 runs. Dave smashed his 54 runs from only 40 deliveries with 1 six & 11 fours – meaning 50 of his runs came in boundaries! Robert then shared a 4th wicket stand of 35 runs with Phil Barrett, who faced 28 balls for a cameo knock of 24 runs with 5 fours. Robert went on to share a 5th wicket partnership of 36 runs with Julian Higginson (11). After a ‘captain’s innings’ with victory in sight Robert was out – he had scored 51 runs from 78 deliveries with 1 six & 7 fours. Robert is now just 53 runs away from a career total of 10,000 runs at Steeton. Steeton had scored 153 runs for the loss of 7 wickets in 35.5 overs, and so win by 3 wickets with 14 overs to spare.


7 June 2008 v North Leeds (A) - Lost by 59 runs

North Leeds 224-8 in 50 overs

S West 10, P Phillips 39, A Stevens 87, G Hulis 9, L Gray 1, F Lak 8, M Movis 21, D Gray 2, A Farooq 9*, A Cheeseman 12*, Extras 26

R Suri 12-1-50-1, L Spragg 8-2-31-1, D Cook 9-1-32-0, P Akrigg 17-4-61-5, A Hardwick 4-0-29-0

Steeton 165 a/o in 39.5 overs

‘M Wilson 21, J Procter 35, D Cook 8, R Wynn 0, P Barrett 13, J Higginson 20, A Hardwick 0, M Thomas 2, L Spragg 17, R Suri 37, P Akrigg 8*, Extras 4vM Movis 14.5-3-55-7, A Ali 7-0-44-1, F Lak 10-3-36-0, A Cheeseman 4-1-19-1, A Farooq 2-1-2-0, A Stevens 2-0-9-1

Steeton asked North Leeds to bat first on a
warm, humid day and never before has the old adage ‘catches win matches’ been more appropriate. North Leeds scored 224 runs for the loss of 8 wickets in their 50 overs. Stevens (87) top-scored for North Leeds and benefited from some poor Steeton catching. Without the services of David Wynn, 15 year old Ross Suri led the bowling attack and his 12 overs conceded 50 runs as he collected 1 wicket. His opening partner was Lee Spragg who broke the opening partnership, and ending with 1 wicket for 31 runs in 8 overs. However it was the ever-green left-arm spin of Phil Akrigg who had the best bowling figures & he collected another 5-wicket haul. Phil bowled 17 overs and took 5 wickets as he conceded 61 runs. Phil Barrett was awarded a fielding point for his 2 catches in the slips – Phil now has taken 100 catches in the 2nd XI. James Procter was awarded the other fielding point for a smart pick-up & throw that ran-out one of the North Leeds tail-enders. Keeper Julian Higginson had a stumping & a catch, and there were comfortable catches for Ross Suri & skipper Robert Wynn.

At lunch North Leeds knew that they had to bowl well to restrict the Steeton batsmen, but bowl well they did! Mick Wilson (21) was the first out when he was adjudged LBW to a right-hand bowler bowling around the wicket assisted by the slope. His opening partner was James Procter, who went on to score 35 solid runs from 60 deliveries with 7 boundaries. Steeton’s usually solid middle-order came & went with only Phil Barrett (13) & Julian Higginson (20) reaching double figures. Steeton were reduced to 85 runs for 7 wickets mainly by North Leeds fast-bowler Movis (7-55), and were looking at an embarrassing collapse. Batting at No10 youngster Ross Suri was peppered by persistent short-pitched deliveries, but Ross top-scored with a career best innings of 37 runs, scored from just 35 deliveries with 2 sixes & 5 fours. Ross shared an entertaining 9th wicket partnership of 45 runs with Lee Spragg (17). Steeton were all out for 165 runs in 39.5 overs & with 31 fours and 2 sixes they had scored 136 of their runs in boundaries! Steeton lost by 59 runs & leave with no points, ruing their dropped catches.


8 June 2008 v Guiseley (H) in Birtwhistle Cup - Lost by 14 runs

Guiseley 146 a/o in 42.2 overs

C Frazer 8, S Yeates 21, S Ross 40, C Cooper 1, J Davey 8, S Dickinson 26, N Frazer 6, A Perring 10, A Hewitt 9, R Butterfield 4, B Jones 0*, Extras 13

R Suri 7-1-30-1, L Spragg 9-2-35-1, A Hardwick 2-0-11-0, D Cook 7.2-1-21-3, M Thomas 9-2-21-2, R Wynn 1-0-9-0, P Akrigg 7-3-11-3

Steeton 132 a/o in 34.2 overs

M Wilson 0, J Procter 42, D Cook 57, J Higginson 12, R Wynn 0, P Barrett 0, L Spragg 1, M Thomas 11, A Hardwick 2, R Suri 0, P Akrigg 0*, Extras 7

A Perring 9-1-29-3, B Jones 7-0-42-2, S Dickinson 3.2-0-22-1, A Hewitt 6-0-23-1, R Butterfield 9-3-14-1

Steeton 2nd XI ‘snatched defeat from the jaws of victory’ in their fixture at Summerhill Lane, and so crash out of the
Birtwhistle Cup. Guiseley won the toss and batted first at Steeton and scored 146 runs all out in 42.2 overs. For Guiseley Ross top-scored with 40 runs but Guiseley were losing wickets regularly, to attacking Steeton bowling backed-up by excellent fielding. Phil ‘The Legend’ Akrigg (3-11) & Dave Cook (3-21) took 3 wickets each, but neither bowled their full complement of overs. Dave Cook has now taken 200 wickets in the 2nd XI. Bowling for the first time in 2 years Matthew Thomas took 2 wickets for 21 runs in his 9 overs, and there was a single wicket each for opening bowlers Ross Suri (1-30) & Lee Spragg (1-35). The fielding of Adam Hardwick was of the highest order, and he collected 2 well judged catches. James Procter was also outstanding and he too collected a good catch. Skipper Robert Wynn & Mick Wilson took comfortable catches, and Matthew Thomas took a return catch from his own bowling.

At lunch Steeton were confident that they had ‘done half a job’, and that a reasonable batting performance would see them to a comfortable victory. After the early loss of Mick Wilson, Steeton were coasting & had scored 75 runs for 1 wicket at the 14 over mark. James Procter (42) & Dave Cook (57) shared an excellent 2nd wicket partnership of 78 runs, before James was unluckily run out. James had scored his 42 runs from 50 deliveries with 9 boundaries. Dave Cook top-scored with 57 runs scored from 66 balls faced with 7 fours. But then Steeton’s middle order crumpled, with most skying simple catches to mid-off, and only Julian Higginson (12) & Matthew Thomas (11) making double figures. The collapse continued & Steeton could only manage 132 runs all out in 34.2 overs, and so lost by 14 runs.


14 June 2008 v Adel (H) - Winning Draw (4-2)

Steeton 248-9 in 50 overs

M Wilson 4, J Procter 11, D Robinson 115, D Cook 1, J Higginson 72, R Wynn 27, M Thomas 0, L Spragg 4, A Hardwick 4*, R Suri 0, P Akrigg 0*, Extras 9

N Stubbs 8-0-44-2, M Shires 10-0-52-2, G Thorpe 7-0-30-0, T James 6-0-26-0, R Ewen 11-2-45-5, T Edwards 8-0-47-0

Adel 187-8 in 50 overs

I Jones 22, T James 26, J Pratt 48, G Thorpe 11, M Shires 17, T Sacruran 15, N Stubbs 1, T Edwards 11*, J Tarran 17*, Extras 15

R Suri 7-2-11-0, L Spragg 5-1-20-0, D Cook 20-4-83-5, M Thomas 7-0-27-1, P Akrigg 11-2-34-2

Batting first Steeton were off to a poor start and were soon reduced to 31 runs for 3 wickets with only James Procter (11) reaching double figures. Frequent bouts of light rain were never quite heavy enough to force them from the field. Having been dropped from the 1st XI on the back of scores of 41 & 30 last weekend, David Robinson responded in the best possible manner: with a majestic century. David scored 115 runs from 154 deliveries with 19 boundaries. He shared a superb 4th wicket partnership of 147 runs with Julian Higginson, who faced 82 balls as he smashed 72 runs, which included 13 fours. David then shared a quick-fire 61-run 5th wicket stand with skipper Robert Wynn, who scored 27 runs from just 30 deliveries with 2 boundaries. When David was finally out, with 5 overs to go and the score on 239 runs for 5 wickets, there was another shuttering of wickets. For Adel the looping left-arm spin of Ewen collected 5 wickets for 42 runs. Steeton closed on 248 runs for 9 wickets in their full 50 overs, and at lunch were reasonably confident in a job half-done.

The pick of the bowlers was Dave Cook, who collected a 5-wicket haul. Dave bowled 20 overs and conceded 83 runs as he collected 5 wickets. The dependable Phil Akrigg (2-34) added a further 2 wickets & Matthew Thomas (1-27) took 1 wicket. Keeper Julian Higginson added another stumping to his seasons victims. With 8 wickets down Adel crashed a boundary from the last ball to reach 187 runs and pass the ¾ score and Steeton had to settle for 4 points from a 4-2 wining draw.


21 June 2008 v Kirkstall Educational (A) - Rained-Off (1-1)

Steeton 1pt

Rained Off

Kirkstall Educational 1pt

Rained Off

Rain meant no play was possible in this fixture


28 June 2008 v Follifoot (H) - Winning Draw (5-1)

Steeton 320-5 in 50 overs

M Wilson 126, J Procter 118, D Robinson 1, J Higginson 26*, L Spragg 9, A Hardwick 21, Extras 17

S Dewford 12-1-82-2, H Lewis 3-0-24-0, S Townsend 3-0-40-0, D Nudds 19-1-80-2, L Ford 13-0-88-1

Follifoot 149-5 in 50 overs

L Ford 14, J Hudson 3, M Bailey 2, L Fox 71*, S Martin 1, Clark 12, P Townsend 24*, Extras 22

R Suri 11-5-30-1, M Thomas 15-4-37-4, A Hardwick 6-0-24-0, D Robinson 5-2-10-0, P Akrigg 5-3-9-0, L Spragg 8-1-32-0

Steeton’s innings featured a fantastic opening partnership that almost broke the league record, and fell just 2 runs short of the Club record. Centurians Mick Wilson (128) & James Procter (118) amassed an incredible 258 runs. Mick scored his 128 runs from 123 deliveries with 2 sixes and 20 fours. and James also faced 123 balls for his 118 runs, which included 22 boundaries. With ‘pad rash’ setting in, Steeton lost 4 wickets as they added the next 11 runs, before stability was restored by with a fine 5th wicket stand of 51 runs between Julian Higginson (26*) & Adam Hardwick (23). Julian’s unbeaten 26* runs came from just 29 deliveries with 3 boundaries, and Adam smashed 2 sixes and a four as he scored his 23 runs from 21 balls before being bowled from the last ball of the innings. At lunch Steeton had scored a formidable 320 runs for 5 wickets in their 50 overs, and Follifoot would have to score at almost 5 runs an over just to reach the ¾ score.

Follifoot’s top order were blown away by a great opening blast by Matthew Thomas, who collected 4 wickets for 37 runs from 15 overs – with 3 of his victims clean bowled! The only other wicket to fall was collected by Ross Suri (1-30), as Follifoot concentrated on survival. Adam Hardwick & Matthew Thomas collected a fielding point each. Despite Fox scoring 71*, Follifoot did not even manage to reach half of Steeton’s total, as they closed on 149 runs for 5 wickets in their 50 overs. Steeton collect 5 points from this one-sided encounter.


5 July 2008 v Collingham & Linton (A) - Abandoned (1-1)

Collingham & Linton 15-0 in 3 overs

D Moss 6*, B Keavy 4*, Extras 5

R Suri 2-0-10-0, M Thomas 1-1-0-0

Steeton 1pt

Rained Off

Frequent torrential downpours meant Steeton 2nd XI only played 3 overs at Collingham. Collingham had scored 15 runs without loss, before the match was abandoned with both sides collecting 1 point.


12 July 2008 v Rawdon (H) - Winning Draw (5-1)

Steeton 251-3 in 50 overs

M Wilson 124*, R Wynn 10, D Robinson 2, A Hardwick 0, L Spragg 98*, Extras 17

J Hill 17-4-73-2, M Longley 12-3-54-1, J Hughes 13-1-67-0, M Brown 4-0-15-0, G Myers 4-0-33-0

Rawdon 103-8 in 50 overs

M Windle 10, D Weston 5, M Hill 1, M Longley 12, C Goldthorpe 13, J Hughes 15, R Griggs 0, J Hill 9*, J Nightingale 6, M Brown 6*, Extras 26

R Suri 12-6-20-2, M Thomas 15-3-33-3, A Hardwick 6-4-3-0, Z Pearson 6-1-17-1, D Robinson 7-3-14-2, P Akrigg 4-4-0-0

With all the rain this last week Steeton track was very damp, and losing the toss meant that Steeton were asked to bat first. When Steeton were reduced to 39 runs for the loss of 3 wickets the decision seemed justified, with only skipper Robert Wynn (10) managing double figures. However there followed a fantastic unbroken 4th wicket partnership of 212 runs between Mick Wilson (124*) & Lee Spragg (98*), which smashed the previous Club record of 158 runs set in 1994. Mick Wilson’s second successive century, was a great unbeaten 124* runs, scored from 124 deliveries & included 4 sixes and 13 fours. Mick’s partner Lee Spragg also deserved a century, but had to settle for a personal best unbeaten 98* runs, scored from 107 balls with 2 sixes & 12 fours. On a difficult track this was a brilliant effort, which took the game beyond the reach of Rawdon. Steeton had scored 251 runs for the loss of 3 wickets in their 50 overs, and at lunch Rawdon knew they would have to score at almost 4 runs an over just to reach the ¾ score.

In reply Matthew Thomas blasted out the Rawdon top-order and finished with 3 wickets for 33 runs from 15 overs. Ross Suri (2-20) & David Robinson (2-14) collected a brace of wickets apiece, and bowling off-spin Zach Pearson (1-17) took the other wicket to fall. Matthew Thomas caught a comfortable return catch from his own bowling, and there was a comfortable catch for Zach Pearson, a nice catch in the slips for Mick Wilson, and a well judged catch on the square-leg boundary for Adam Hardwick. Adam & Zach were awarded the fielding points. With no ambition to even attempt the ¾ score, the late order Rawdon batsmen put up stubborn rearguard resistance. Rawdon hung on for 1 point & finished on 103 runs for the loss of 8 wickets in their 50 overs. Steeton finished with a winning draw & collect 5 points from this one-sided encounter.


19 July 2008 v Otley (A) - Abandoned (1-1)

Steeton 166-9 in 40 overs

R Wynn 4, J Procter 53, D Robinson 59, J Higginson 16, L Spragg 3, P Barrett 8, A Hardwick 4, M Thomas 7, Z Pearson 0, R Suri 1*, P Akrigg 1*, Extras 10

K Pullan 5-2-21-1, P Wilkinson 6-0-27-0, B Leeming 12-4-47-0, M Gray 14-1-60-4, M Wilkinson 3-2-8-3

Otley 34-1 in 13 overs

C Smith 17, G Wolfenden 10*, C Davey 6*, Extras 1

R Suri 6-1-16-0, M Thomas 6-1-17-1, P Akrigg 1-1-0-0

Rain was always the threat as Steeton travelled to Cross Green. Heavy rain before the start reduced the match to 40 overs per side, and Steeton lost the toss & were asked to bat first on a damp track. The uneven bounce made batting very difficult, but the main feature of the Steeton innings was a great 2nd wicket stand of 100 runs between James Procter (53) & David Robinson (59). James scored his 53 runs from 99 deliveries with 9 boundaries, and David faced 80 balls for his 59 runs, which included 1 six & 9 fours. Both James & David benefited from some poor Otley catching. With the exception of Julian Higginson (16) none of the other batsmen was able to cope with the uneven bounce & movement, and Steeton finished their 40 overs with an excellent 166 runs for the loss of 9 wickets. For Otley Gray (4-60) &; Wilkinson (3-8) exploited the conditions most effectively.

Further downpours during the tea interval meant Otley’s reply was reduced to 33 overs. After 13 overs Otley had scored 34 runs for the loss of just 1 wicket, when the heavens opened again and the match was abandoned. Matthew Thomas (1-17) took the only wicket to fall. The weather had the last word and both sides had to settle for 1 point each.


26 July 2008 v Burley-in-Wharfedale (H) - Losing Draw (2-4)

Burley-in-Wharfedale 205-7 in 50 overs

R Suri 8-2-47-1, P Hardwick 16-4-53-2, L Spragg 9-1-30-1, M Thomas 7-1-17-1, P Akrigg 10-3-40-2

Steeton 189-9 in 25 overs

A Hardwick 13, J Procter 78, D Robinson 1, G Manthorp 4, Z Pearson 18, M Thomas 50*, L Spragg 7, D Hanson 1, R Suri 3, P Hardwick 1, P Akrigg 1*, Extras 13

Steeton 2nd XI played Burley at home. Burley batted first and scored a respectable 205 runs for 7 wickets. In reply Steeton faltered 15 runs short of the Burley target and scored 190 runs for the loss of 9 wickets. Steeton 2nd XI collect 2 points from a losing draw.


2 August 2008 v Guiseley (A) - Winning Draw (4-2)

Steeton 153 a/o in 48.3 overs

M Wilson 6, J Procter 11, D Robinson 15, A Hardwick 31, A Patankar 0, L Spragg 26, M Thomas 25, Z Pearson 19, P Hardwick 1, R Suri 4, P Akrigg 0*, Extras 25

Guiseley 148-9 in 51 overs

R Suri 10-4-23-2, P Hardwick 12-2-28-1, M Thomas 15-5-39-1, P Akrigg 14-3-41-4

Steeton 2nd XI travelled to Guiseley and had a good result with a 4-2 winning draw. Steeton scored 153 runs & in a close finish Guiseley were 9 wickets down and just 5 runs short at 148 runs for 9 wickets


9 August 2008 v Harden (H) - Rained-Off (1-1)

Steeton 1pt

Rained Off

Harden 1pt

Rained Off

Persistent heavy rain meant no play was possible at Summerhill Lane. Both sides had to settle for a single point each.


16 August 2008 v Bilton (A) - Won by 8 wickets

Bilton 125-6 in 50 overs

M Shaw 24, M Donnelly 3, L Heslop 15, M Tyler 35, S Lawrence 24, N Thompson 10*, S Thompson 2, S Kelly 0*, Extras 12

R Suri 10-3-27-2, M Thomas 8-1-23-1, D Cook 14-6-15-2, P Akrigg 17-6-40-1, K Wynn 1-0-14-0

Steeton 126-2 in 34 overs

M Wilson 77*, A Hardwick 2, D Robinson 17, J Higginson 18*, Extras 12

M Tyler 5-2-19-0, S Thompson 5-1-18-1, S Lawrence 9-2-34-1, B Simpson 6-0-11-0, M Donnelly 6-1-24-0, R Ford 3-1-15-0

Steeton beat a weak Bilton side by 8 wickets. Asked to bat first Bilton played very cautiously; batting out a total of 16 maidens. After his brief & largely-unused sojourn in the 1st XI, Dave Cook returned to the 2nd XI and was the pick of the bowling with his 14 overs only conceding 15 runs as he collected 2 wickets. Phil Akrigg was almost as miserly with his 17 overs only conceding 40 runs as he collected a single wicket. Opening bowler Ross Suri (2-27) also bowled well to collect 2 wickets, and his opening partner Matthew Thomas (1-23) took the other wicket to fall. David Robinson took a catch, Dave Cook took a return catch from his own bowling, and there was a stumping for keeper Julian Higginson. Bilton could only muster 125 runs for 6 wickets in their 50 overs, with their skipper Tyler top-scoring with 35 runs.

Steeton’s reply was led by classy opener Mick Wilson, who top-scored with an unbeaten 77* runs, scored from 118 deliveries with 2 sixes & 5 fours. Mick had an opening stand of 38 runs with Adam Hardwick (2) & a 24-run 2nd wicket stand with David Robinson (17). David faced 40 deliveries, before he was unluckily caught out driving the ball into the armpit of a close fielder. Mick & Julian Higginson (18*) then forged an unbroken match-winning 3rd wicket partnership of 64 runs. Julian faced 39 balls and hit 1 boundary in his undefeated 18* runs. Steeton scored 126 runs for the loss of 2 wickets in 34 overs, to comfortably pass the Bilton target with 8 wickets & 16 overs to spare.


23 August 2008 v North Leeds (H) - Won by 2 wickets

North Leeds 157 a/o in 44.3 overs

T Hales 8, J Goldthorp 33, A Stevens 18, L Gray 9, N Leach 48*, S West 0, F Lak 12, W Jackson 1, A Farooq 3, F Iqbal 0, A Ali 3, Extras 22

R Suri 11.3-4-17-4, M Thomas 3-0-16-0, D Cook 15-1-50-2, P Akrigg 11-4-42-3, D Robinson 4-0-20-1

Steeton 158-8 in 42.5 overs

A Patankar 11, J Procter 39, D Robinson 9, J Higginson 22, M Thomas 6, R Wynn 31*, A Hardwick 0, D Cook 6, Z Pearson 2, R Suri 0*, Extras 32

A Ali 12-2-45-3, F Lak 7-1-18-1, A Farooq 10-0-23-3, A Stevens 9-1-37-0, F Iqbal 5-1-19-1

North Leeds came to Steeton in confident mood, but came up against the accurate pace of Ross Suri, who was the pick of the bowling with 4 wickets for just 17 runs from 11.3 overs. In this bad-tempered match North Leeds were soon in disarray and were skittled all out for 157 runs in 44.3 overs. While Ross was the pick of the bowlers, the ‘Legend’ was as dependable as usual: Phil Akrigg bowled 11 overs which cost 42 runs as he took 3 wickets. In tandem with Dave Cook, who bowled 15 overs and took 2 wickets for 50 runs, the experienced pairing stifled the flow of runs for North Leeds throughout the middle period of their innings. Dave Robinson (1-20) took the other wicket to fall. Steeton were sharp in the field, with 2 good catches for Ajmal Patankar, and also catches for Dave Cook, James Procter & keeper Julian Higginson. Ajmal Patankar & Zach Pearson were awarded fielding points. At tea Steeton knew that North Leeds had posted a ‘below par’ score, but that the top of the league side would not be beaten easily.

In reply Steeton got off to a good start with an opening partnership of 51 runs, before Ajmal Patankar was bowled for 11 runs. His opening partner James Procter went on to top-score with 39 runs, scored from 87 deliveries with 7 boundaries. In the middle order Julian Higginson (22) added valuable runs. When wickets were starting to tumble from the other end it was the steadying experience of skipper Robert Wynn (31*) who saw Steeton home. Robert faced 46 balls & hit 6 fours for his 31* runs. The Steeton batsmen certainly did not have it all their own way, and lost 8 wickets in passing the North Leeds total…though they had 12 overs to spare! Steeton’s run chase was made easier by 32 extras, with 12 wides & 10 byes! Steeton scored 158 runs for 8 wickets in 42.5 overs, to win by 2 wickets, collect all 6 points and open up the title race.


30 August 2008 v Adel (A) - Won by 61 runs

Steeton 182-7 in 50 overs

M Wilson 73, J Procter 10, D Robinson 33, J Higginson 7, R Wynn 21*, M Thomas 1, L Spragg 8, A Hardwick 3, Z Pearson 1*, Extras 25

M Robinson 8-1-29-0, K Robert 7-0-32-1, G Thorpe 11-3-43-0, P Deshmuck 7-2-23-0, J Wadken 5-2-18-1, S Porson 6-1-10-1, B Hall 6-2-17-2

Adel 121 a/o in 48.1 overs

J Stringer 34, J Wadkin 2, P Deshmuck 2, J Audsley 25, B Hall 15, I Bath 0, M Robinson 11, A Jones 7, K Roberts 5, G Thorpe 3, S Porson 0*, Extras 17

R Suri 6-2-11-0, M Thomas 10-1-27-2, P Akrigg 18.1-6-32-4, L Spragg 11-2-27-3, Z Pearson 3-0-13-1

Steeton scored an impressive 182 runs for 7 wickets from their 50 overs thanks largely to 73 runs by the dependable Mick Wilson, 33 runs for David Robinson, 21* runs from skipper Robert Wynn & 10 runs scored by opener James Procter. Mick Wilson top-scored with 73 runs, which came from 118 deliveries & included 11 boundaries. Mick shared an excellent 2nd wicket partnership of 107 runs with David Robinson, who faced 83 balls & hit 5 fours for his 33 runs. Skipper Robert Wynn is in a rich vein of form and was undefeated at the end of the innings, having faced 41 balls to score his 21* runs.

In reply Adel struggled to cope with the tight bowling of ‘The Legend’ – Phil Akrigg took 4 wickets, and his 18.1 overs only conceded 32 runs. Lee Spragg was also in the wickets with 3 wickets for just 27 runs from 11 overs. Matthew Thomas (2-27) & Zach Pearson (1-13) took the other Adel wickets. Keeper Julian Higginson took 2 catches & there was a single catch apiece for Mick Wilson & James Procter. Adel lost wickets regularly & never challenged the good Steeton total. They were all out for just 121 runs in 48.1 overs, so Steeton win by 61 runs & collect another 6 points on a good weekend for Steeton cricket!


6 September 2008 v Kirkstall Educational (H) - Rained-Off (1-1)

Steeton 1pt

Pitch Unfit

Kirkstall Educational 1pt

Pitch Unfit

The pitch was water-logged after heavy rain, and this match was cancelled with no play possible. Both sides collect 1 point each.


13 September 2008 v Follifoot (A) - Won by 5 wickets

Follifoot 133 a/o in 49.2 overs

D Batchelor 5, S Martin 15, S Townsend 5, A Fox 10, S Clarke 69, M Bailey 9, P Townsend 9, S Goalen 1, S Ledger 0, J Emmott 0, A Emmott 0, Extras 10

R Suri 12-3-14-1, M Thomas 12-2-26-1, D Cook 12-2-47-2, Z Pearson 10-3-33-1, P Akrigg 3.2-2-4-5

Steeton 134-5 in 44.3 overs

M Wilson 1, J Procter 49, D Robinson 5, J Higginson 7, A Hardwick 1, M Thomas 36*, R Wynn 7*, Extras 28

J Emmott 10-3-20-0, S Ledger 13-2-28-3, S Goalen 9-2-17-0, A Fox 11-0-48-1, S Townsend 1.3-0-8-1

Steeton ended the 2008 season on a high with a 5 wicket victory at Rudding Park. Follifoot batted first and managed 133 runs all out in 49.2 overs. Follifoot’s batsmen were batting steadily on a damp track, with the early bowlers chipping away. Ross Suri bowled a tight 12 overs only conceding 14 runs and collecting 1 wicket; Matthew Thomas also collected 1 wicket for 26 runs from 12 overs. The experienced Dave Cook took 2 wickets for 47 runs from 12 overs, and the young off-spinner Zach Pearson took a single wicket for 33 runs from 10 overs. At the start of the match Phil Akrigg required 5 wickets to qualify for the league averages, and with the score on 118 runs for 5 wicket in the 44th over he was introduced into the attack. Phil has said this will be his final match, and would need the last 5 wickets to make it a fairytale ending. Phil Akrigg proceeded to polish-off the tail and collected the 5 wickets he needed, while conceding only 4 runs! He bowled just 3.2 overs, and if Phil does play again he will be ‘on a hat-trick’. If this is to be Phil’s last match…what a way to retire!

At tea Follifoot had scored 133 runs all out in 49.2 overs…a reasonable total on a difficult track, with only Clarke (69) making batting look easy. Steeton’s reply was anchored by James Procter, who scored a determined 49 runs, including 5 fours. Steeton’s early batsmen could not stay with James, but in Matthew Thomas (36*) he found a reliable partner. James & Matthew shared an excellent 5th wicket partnership of 80 runs, before James was unfortunately stumped out with the Follifoot target in sight. In his hundredth match as skipper, Robert Wynn (7*) hit the winning runs. Steeton passed the Follifoot target comfortably with 5 wickets and 5 overs to spare. Steeton had scored 134 runs for 5 wickets in 44.3 overs and finish 2008 with a 6 points from a convincing performance.


1st XI2nd XI

Third XI 2008

20 April 2008 v Adel (A) - Won by 5 wickets

Adel 122 a/o in 37.4 overs

M McFarlane 32, K Robert 29, S Ridgeway 0, A Jones 3, J Wadkin 14, S Raha 21, J Audsley 0, E Sheeran 4, J Thorp 2, A Audsley 0, G OSullivan 1*, Extras 17

R Suri 8-3-8-2, Z Pearson 5.4-0-28-1, T Stead 5-0-21-2, C Lowe 5-2-8-0, K Wynn 5-1-15-3, C Boulton 5-1-9-1, J Pearson 4-1-25-1

Steeton 124-5 in 39.1 overs

D Hedges 15, T Stead 15, J Pearson 18, P Barrett 60*, G Manthorp 0, R Suri 4, Z Pearson 6*, Extras 6

J Thorp 4-0-7-0, K Roberts 10-0-24-1, J Wadkin 10-0-32-3, G OSullivan 8-3-29-1, S Raha 5-0-17-0, A Jones 1.1-0-9-0, A Audsley 1-0-4-0

Steeton 3rd XI notched up the Club’s first win of the season with a 5-wicket victory over Adel. Arriving at Adel the wicket looked very wet, but a determination to get a match played meant the match was underway on time. The wicket played remarkable well, although the wet outfield meant this was a low-scoring match. Adel won the toss and chose to bat first and at 61 runs without loss they were looking well set for a big score, with McFarlane (32) and Roberts (29) looking comfortable. Tom Stead (2-21) made the break-through before Katie Wynn ripped through the middle order, returning excellent figures of 3 wicket for 15 runs from 5 overs. Ross Suri also bowled tight and was rewarded with 2 wickets for just 8 runs from 8 overs. There was a wicket each for Charlotte Boulton (1-9), Jack Pearson (1-25) & Zach Pearson (1-28). Ross Suri took 2 well judged catches at mid-off, keeper Gabe Manthorp took a sharp catch behind, and Tom Stead comfortable pouched another at mid-wicket. After their excellent start, Adel were probably disappointed to be all out for 122 runs from 37.4 overs at lunch.

Steeton’s reply was led by openers David Hedges and Tom Stead, who both scored 15 runs, before falling in quick succession. Batting at No3 Jack Pearson found runs hard to come by, but scored a valuable 18 runs. However Steeton’s batting display owed much to Phil Barrett, who smashed the first ball he faced past mid-off for 4 runs and finished with an unbeaten 60* runs, scored from 64 deliveries with 3 boundaries. Phil hit the winning runs as Steeton reached the victory target with 2 overs and 5 wickets to spare. For Adel Wadkin took 3 wickets for 32 runs. Steeton scored 124 runs for 5 wickets in 39.1 overs, and so collect 6 points in this opening fixture.


27 April 2008 v Thackley (H) - Rained-Off (1-1)

Steeton 1pt

Rained-Off

Thackley 1pt

Rained-Off

With persistent heavy rain all morning the 3rd XI home fixture against Thackley was a victim of the weather. The pitch was under-water and no play possible, so the match was called-off in the morning. Both sides collect a single point.


5 May 2008 v Green Lane (H) - Won by 132 runs

Steeton 214-6 in 40 overs

P Barrett 4, G Manthorp 14, C Karakiozakis 1, J Pearson 3, L Spragg 38, C Boulton 4, A Howarth 69*, Z Pearson 23*, Extras 58

M Slater 9-0-43-2, D Beckwith 9-2-46-1, C Hill 4-1-25-0, J Roberts 6-1-24-1, J Clark 5-2-11-0, S Hussain 4-0-24-2, U Musaf 3-0-19-0

Green Lane 82 a/o in 34.4 overs

J Clark 0, C Hill 11, B Reynolds 18, D Beckwith 4, A Roberts 0, D Rhodes 9, U Musaf 0, M Slater 11, J Roberts 2, A Hussain 9*, S Hussain 2, Extras 16

Z Pearson 5-0-21-1, C Karakiozakis 5-1-12-0, J Emmott 3-2-4-2, C Lowe 6-3-17-3, K Wynn 5-2-7-1, C Boulton 6-2-9-0, L Spragg 3-2-2-0, J Pearson 1.4-0-5-1

A strong Steeton 3rd XI was too good for a eager, but youthful Green Lane outfit. Asked to bat first Steeton did not get off to the best of starts on a green track and were soon reduced to 28 runs for 3 wickets after 11 overs, before a 4th wickets stand of 42 runs between opener Gabe Manthorp (14) and Lee Spragg (38) put the score back on track. Lee scored his 38 runs from 49 deliveries with 1 six & 5 fours. At 102 runs for 6 wickets the Steeton innings again looked wobbly, but they finished strongly with a club-record unbroken 7th wickets partnership of 112 runs between skipper Alex Howarth (69*) & Zach Pearson (23*) Alex scored his unbeaten 69* runs from just 56 deliveries, with 4 sixes & 3 fours, and Zach faced 39 balls and hit 2 boundaries for his 23* runs not out. A feature of the Steeton total was a remarkable 58 extras, with 33 wides! Steeton had finished with a magnificent 214 runs for 6 wickets in their 40 overs, which meant Green Lane would need to score at 4 an over just to reach the ¾ total!

This proved far too much for the inexperienced Green Lane side, who slumped to 82 all out in 34.4 overs. Callum Lowe was the pick of the bowlers with 3 wickets for 17 runs from his 6 overs. James Emmott took 2 wickets for 4 runs from 3 overs, and there was a wicket apiece for Jack Pearson (1-5), Katie Wynn (1-7) & Zach Pearson (1-21). Gabe Manthorp was again impressive behind the stumps with a stumping, a catch & only 1 bye, and there were well taken catches in the gully by Lee Spragg & in the slips by Phil Barrett. Charlotte Boulton was outstanding in the field, with a well-judged low catch & being involved in running-out 2 of the Green Lane batters, which earned her the fielding point. Steeton won by an incredible 132 runs and collect all 6 points from this one-sided encounter.


11 May 2008 v Follifoot (H) in Chappell Cup - Won by 180 runs

Steeton 233-5 in 40 overs

D Hedges 4, T Stead 67, P Barrett 0, J Pearson 26, G Manthorp 53, A Howarth 51*, Extras 32

M Milligan 10-1-40-0, K Morrison 10-1-62-2, O Rosillo 5-0-33-0, W Foster 5-1-15-0, E London 5-0-31-1, J Emmett 5-0-34-1

Follifoot 53 a/o in 24.4 overs

M Milligan 4, J Hudson 3, G Dickie 2, E London 22*, O Rosillo 0, D Wingate 2, W Foster 0, S Townsend 1, A Emmett 0, K Morrison 1, J Emmett 0, Extras 18

R Suri 5-2-5-2, Z Pearson 5-0-9-0, T Stead 4-4-0-3, D Hanson 5-0-16-2, C Lowe 3.2-0-6-2, J Pearson 2-0-8-1

Steeton 3rd XI breezed past Follifoot into the 2nd round of the Chappell cup – the winning margin being 180 runs. Asked to bat first on a good deck Steeton were soon looking wobbly at 17 runs for 2 wickets, but opener Tom Stead was in great form as he stroked a half-century. Tom scored 67 runs from 78 deliveries with 9 boundaries & shared an excellent 3rd wicket stand of 96 runs with Jack Pearson (26). Both fell in quick succession, which brought together the experience of skipper Alex Howarth & the youth of Gabe Manthorp. Together they forged a new Club record 5th wicket partnership of 99 runs – both batsmen scoring half-centuries. Gabe’s maiden half-century was 53 runs scored from just 48 balls with 3 fours, before he was caught from the last ball of the innings. Skipper Alex Howorth scored his unbeaten 51* runs from only 38 deliveries with 7 boundaries. At lunch Steeton had scored an formidable 233 runs for 5 wickets in 40 overs, meaning Follifoot would need to score at almost 6 runs per over to progress to the second round.

An opening blast from Ross Suri claimed both Follifoot openers as he bowled 5 fast straight overs and conceded only 5 runs. When Ross was rested Tom Stead replaced him, and Tom completed a fine all-round performance with 4 overs that were all maidens and he collected 3 wickets. Callum Lowe (2-6) & Danny Hanson (2-16) collected 2 wickets apiece and there was a single wicket for Jack Pearson (1-8). Steeton’s fielding was of the highest calibre with smart slip catches for Alex Howarth & Phil Barrett, and a well judged high catch for Ross Suri. Keeper Gabe Manthorp was in great form with 2 catches & a quick stumping and he only conceded 5 byes. Follifoot had been demolished all out for just 53 runs in 24.2 overs, with only the experienced London (22*) able to withstand the onslaught. Steeton had won by 180 runs and progress without any concerns to the next round of the Chappell Cup, where they travel to Green Lane away on 15th June.


11 May 2008 v Horsforth (A) - No Result (1-1)

Steeton 1pt

Not Played

Horsforth 1pt

Not Played

This fixture was not able to be played on the day due to Cup match, and was not able to be re-arranged during the season. Both sides were awarded a single point.


25 May 2008 v Harden (A) - Won by 10 wickets

Harden 170-7 in 40 overs

M Falkingham 43, J Hill 1, M Topham 12, T Cummins 37, N Cummins 20, P Topham 7, J Roper 12*, A Simpsons 4, A Gill 1*, Extras 33

R Suri 10-3-18-2, T Stead 10-2-31-2, D Hanson 5-2-6-1, C Lowe 5-0-27-0, D Austick 5-2-28-1, J Hill 5-0-38-1

Steeton 175-0 in 19 overs

D Hedges 63*, T Stead 105*, Extras 7

M Topham 5-0-42-0, A Gill 9-0-76-0, J Roper 4-0-45-0, A Simpsons 1-0-8-0

Steeton 3rd XI completed a white-washing of Harden this weekend, by winning in the most convincing of styles – a 10 wicket demolition! The strong wind meant that the bails were soon dispensed with. Batting first Harden scored a reasonable total of 170 runs for 7 wickets in their 40 overs. Opener Falkingham (43) anchored the Harden innings, but fell just short of his half-century. Steeton’s bowling attack was led by Ross Suri (2-18) & Tom Stead (2-31), who both bowled 10 fast accurate overs and took 2 wickets each. Danny Hanson bowled 5 tight overs that only conceded 6 runs and he was very unlucky to only finish with 1 wicket. Danny Austick (1-28) & Jake Hill (1-38) took the other wickets to fall. Steeton’s fielding was of a high standard, but the same cannot be said for their catching, with only keeper Gabe Manthorp holding onto 1 chance.

At lunch Steeton knew they would have to score at over 4 runs an over to be victorious. Steeton’s openers made their intentions clear scoring 12 runs from the first over, and continued in the same manner. David Hedges batted masterfully and scored an unbeaten 63* runs scored from just 53 deliveries with 11 boundaries. However even this fine knock was eclipsed by his opening partner Tom Stead, who scored a majestic maiden century. Tom scored an unbeaten 105* runs from only 64 deliveries and hit 15 fours & 2 sixes – his second six brought-up his hundred and won the match! Steeton had won by 10 wickets with 21 overs to spare, as they reached 175 runs without loss in just 19 overs and leave Harden with all the 6 points on offer


26 May 2008 v Follifoot (H) - Winning Draw (5-1)

Steeton 301-3 in 40 overs

D Hedges 44*, D Hanson 27, G Manthorp 77, P Barrett 94*, J Pearson 4, Z Pearson 9*, Extras 46

S Dewsnip 10-1-52-1, M Milligan 10-0-56-0, J Agar 10-0-78-2, J Taylor 4-0-45-0, S Goalen 1-0-18-0, J Emmett 4-0-31-0, E London 1-0-3-0

Follifoot 187-3 in 40 overs

J Agar 15, J Hudson 36, M Milligan 72, E London 36*, S Townsend 8*, Extras 20

Z Pearson 10-2-24-1, C Lowe 8-0-42-1, J Hill 5-0-15-1, J Emmott 7-1-18-0, K Wynn 5-0-47-0, D Hanson 5-0-31-0

Wickets were a rare commodity, but records galore, in this Bank Holiday fixture on a placid Summerhill Lane pitch. Steeton won the toss and chose to bat on the easy-paced wicket and for the second day the strong winds meant bails were not used. The opening partnership had reached 79 runs when David Hedges top-edged a delivery into his face & collapsed. David had scored 44 runs from 51 deliveries with 8 boundaries before he retired hurt, went to Airedale & played no further part in the game. Best wishes to David. His opening partner Danny Hanson batted very well & finished with a career-best 27 runs with 4 fours, but when he was out it brought together Gabe Manthorp (77) & Phil Barrett (94*). Together they amassed a new Club record 2nd wicket partnership of 145 runs. Gabe Manthorp scored a career-best 77 runs from 66 deliveries with 12 boundaries & Phil Barrett bludgeoned his way to a career-best 94* runs from just 67 deliveries with 2 sixes & 10 fours. In their 40 overs Steeton had scored an incredible 301 runs for 3 wickets – a new (but quickly broken) League record! At lunch Follifoot would have to score at over 5½ runs per over just to reach the ¾ score!

Follifoot batted very well with Milligan top-scoring with 72 runs before a very thin edge was caught by keeper Gabe Manthorp of the bowling of Zach Pearson (1-24). Earlier Follifoot’s opening partnership had been broken by Callum Lowe (1-42), and the other opener had been comfortably caught at mid-on by Jack Pearson from the bowling of Jake Hill (1-15). None of the other bowlers were able to make a breakthrough, and after their 40 overs Follifoot had scored 187 runs for the loss of 3 wickets. An amazing 488 runs had been scored in 80 overs for the loss of only 6 wickets – also a Club aggregate record! Steeton had a (5-1) winning draw and remain top of their conference & must re-write the record books!


15 June 2008 v Green Lane (A) in Chappell Cup - Won by 8 wickets

Green Lane 81 a/o in 36.2 overs

C Chaplin 2, A Otway 4, A Roberts 0, C Hill 2, T Moody 10, D Oxgerby 3, B Reynolds 8, D Rhodes 3, O Gill 1, I Craven 15*, J Roberts 11, Extras 21

R Suri 5-1-6-0, Z Pearson 6-4-4-3, C Lowe 8.2-0-22-1, J Hill 7-2-16-2, D Austick 5-0-15-1, D Hanson 5-1-8-3

Steeton 82-2 in 14 overs

D Hedges 23, J Pearson 12, P Barrett 26*, G Manthorp 11*, Extras 10

T Moody 4-0-17-0, J Roberts 4-1-19-0, D Rhodes 3-0-18-2, B Reynolds 3-0-27-0

Steeton progress smoothly to the quarter-final stage of the Chappell Cup with a convincing 8 wicket victory at Nunroyd Park. They now entertain Kirkstall Ed. or Calverley on 6th July. Green Lane won the toss and chose to bat first, but soon regretted the decision as they were reduced to 44 runs for the loss of 9 wickets, thanks to fine bowling from Steeton’s young bowling attack. Zach Pearson took 3 wickets and only conceded 4 runs, and Danny Hanson also collected 3 wickets at a cost of just 8 runs. Jake Hill took a wicket from his first delivery & finished with 2 wickets for 16 runs. Danny Austick (1-15) & Callum Lowe (1-22) took the other wickets to fall. From 44-9 Green Lane’s last pair; Craven (15*) & Roberts (11), took the score to 81 runs all out in 36.2 overs – rain having reduced the match to 37 overs per side. Steeton’s fielding was of the highest order with great ground-fielding & 7 catches: Keeper Gabe Manthorp took 3 catches, Zach Pearson took 2 catches and there was a catch each for Jack Pearson & David Hedges.

A total of 81 runs was never going to be too demanding and so it proved with all the Steeton batsmen who came to the crease reaching double figures. With the score on 42 runs Steeton lost their first wicket – David Hedges was bowled for 23 runs from 30 balls with 5 fours. The score had progressed to 58 runs when his opening partner was caught for 12 runs scored from 31 balls with 1 boundary. An unbroken 3rd wicket stand of 24 runs between Phil Barrett (26*) & Gabe Manthorp (11*) saw Steeton home in double quick time. Phil top-scored with 26 runs smashed from 16 deliveries with 4 boundaries, and Gabe faced 14 balls & hit 1 four for his unbeaten 11* runs. Steeton had scored 82 runs for the loss of 2 wickets in just 14 overs to win by 8 wickets with 23 overs to spare.


22 June 2008 v Calverley (A) - Lost by 88 runs

Calverley 214-5 in 40 overs

P Coates 7, G Lee 61, M Ward 90*, B Weaving 12, C Coates 9, A Kendrick 1, A Benson 10*, Extras 24

R Suri 10-1-57-1, C Lowe 10-2-38-0, Z Pearson 6-1-25-0, C Boulton 2-0-20-0, J Emmott 7-1-34-2, D Hanson 5-0-24-2

Steeton 126 a/o in 30.4 overs

D Hedges 1, J Pearson 31, G Manthorp 10, D Hanson 1, J Hill 9, C Boulton 0, J Emmott 24, Z Pearson 25, R Suri 4, D Austick 5, C Lowe 1*, Extras 15

A Benson 10-0-36-1, T Westerman 5-1-12-0, C Coates 6-1-28-3, P Yarwood 3-0-25-0, S Cunningham 4-0-16-3, G Lee 2.4-0-6-1

With a weakened batting line-up Steeton 3rd XI suffered their first defeat of the season at Victoria Park. Calverley won the toss and chose to bat first, but Ross Suri (1-57) got Steeton off to a good start when he broke the opening partnership with 9 runs on the board. A fortnight after his century against our 1st XI, Calverley’s Lee could only manage 61 runs before he was well caught by Ross Suri from the accurate bowling of Danny Hanson (2-24). James Emmott (2-34) also took 2 wickets, including a return catch from his own bowling. For Calverley Ward finished unbeaten with 90 runs, as their innings closed on 214 runs for 5 wickets.

Without the batting of usual-skipper Alex Howarth & Phil Barrett, Steeton knew they would have to all perform well to get any points from the match. Their cause was not helped when stand-in skipper David Hedges was farcically run out with the score on just 12 runs. David’s opening partner Jack Pearson top-scored with 31 runs scored from 42 deliveries and including 4 boundaries, before he too was run out. Gabe Manthorp chipped in with 10 runs, and Jake Hill with 9 runs, but Steeton were reduced to 59 runs for 6 wickets after 18 overs. There followed a fine 39-run 7th wicket stand between James Emmott (24) & Zach Pearson (25). James scored his 24 runs from just 24 deliveries with 4 fours, before his quest for ever-more interesting modes of dismissal led him to reverse sweep a ball into the hands of 2nd slip. Zach batted very sensibly and faced 30 balls for his 25 runs, which included 4 boundaries before he was well caught on the boundary. Zach shared a 9th wicket stand of 23 runs with Danny Austick (5), which is a new Club record partnership for league matches. With 9 overs still to bat, and rain their only hope the last few batsmen were out in consecutive overs and Steeton finished with 126 runs all out in 30.4 overs. Steeton leave with no points.


13 July 2008 v Calverley (H) in Chappell Cup - Won by 6 wickets

Calverley 136 a/o in 39.3 overs

P Coates 8, G Lee 15, M Ward 22, B Weaving 51, C Coates 5, A Kendrick 17, A Benson 2, S Cunningham 0, M Winder 2, T Westerman 0*, M Mears 0, Extras 14

C Karakiozakis 8-3-14-3, Z Pearson 10-1-32-2, C Lowe 6.3-0-14-2, J Emmott 8-1-32-2, J Hill 4-0-16-1, D Austick 3-0-17-0

Steeton 137-4 in 37.5 overs

D Hedges 49*, J Pearson 1, A Greenwood 0, A Patankar 16, Z Pearson 9, A Howarth 51*, Extras 11

A Benson 6-1-23-0, T Westerman 8.5-2-33-2, G Lee 10-1-23-1, M Mears 8-1-25-0, C Coates 5-1-29-1

With an excellent team performance, Steeton beat Calvereley by 4 wickets to progress through to the semi-final stage of the Chappell Cup. Batting first Calverley were pegged back by tight Steeton bowling led by Chris Karakiozakis, who took 3 wickets for just 14 runs from 8 overs. There was also 2 wickets apiece for Callum Lowe (2-14), Zach Pearson (2-32) & James Emmott (2-32), and a single wicket for Jake Hill (1-16). The bowlers were ably assisted by a great keeping display by Ajmal Patankar, who ‘stood up’ to all the bowlers, and collected 2 sharp stumpings and a fine catch taken down the leg side. Adam Greenwood made a quick slip catch look easy to remove the Calverley dangerman, Lee. There were also well taken catches for skipper Alex Howarth & Chris Karakiozakis. Steeton 3rd XI gave an excellent all-round fielding display; from the experienced Adam Greenwood right through to the juniors Jake Hill & Daniel Austick, who made some excellent stops on the boundary. A strong Calverley side had been restricted to 136 runs all out in 39.3 overs – a total bolstered by Calverley’s Weaving, who top-scored with 51 runs.

Steeton’s reply started badly – losing 2 wickets with just 4 runs on the board. However opener David Hedges was in defiant mood as he anchored the innings. David batted right through the innings and was undefeated on 49* runs not out, scored from 113 deliveries with 1 six & 5 fours. David shared a fine 3rd wicket partnership of 50 runs with Ajmal Patankar, who scored 16 runs. He then shared a match-winning unbroken 5th wicket stand of 68 runs with skipper Alex Howarth (51*). Alex was in a hurry to score the runs as he blasted his half-century from just 55 balls with 8 boundaries. Steeton had scored 137 runs for 4 wickets in 37.5 overs, to win by 6 wickets with 2 overs to spare. Steeton now travel to Horsforth on 27th July for the semi-final clash.


20th July 2008 v Horsforth Hall Park (H) - Won by 2 wickets

Horsforth Hall Park 155 a/o in 38.5 overs

L Barraclough 3, A Walshaw 0, R Dale 39, A Postle 21, M Randall 0, N McLoughlin 23, A Selby 0, J Doidge 24, H McFee 10, B Staves 5, M Shaw 4*, Extras 26

R Suri 6-2-9-1, C Karakiozakis 6-1-18-1, C Lowe 6-0-24-1, Z Pearson 6-0-37-2, J Hill 4-1-8-2, D Hanson 4-0-15-0, K Wynn 3.5-0-17-2, D Austick 3-1-10-0

Steeton 156-8 in 37.5 overs

D Hedges 2, G Manthorp 45, C Karakiozakis 0, R Suri 4, Z Pearson 17, D Hanson 10, C Lowe 4, K Wynn 10, J Hill 36*, D Austick 1*, Extras 27

A Walshaw 10-1-30-1, N McLoughlin 10-1-37-2, R Dale 6-0-31-1, A Postle 5-1-18-2, L Barraclough 3-0-13-0, M Randall 3.5-1-11-1

Anyone not able to be at the Club on Sunday missed a fantastic match, with a great finish. Steeton won the toss and asked Hall Park to bat first, and they were soon struggling with 2 wickets down and just 3 runs on the board. Better catching may have seen Hall Park struggle further, but a series of good partnerships saw them to a total of 155 runs all out in 38.5 overs. For Hall Park, Dale top-scored with 39 runs. The pick of the Steeton bowlers was Jake Hill, who collected 2 wickets for 8 runs, with both of his victims being caught by big Chris Karakiozakis, who was awarded a fielding point. The slow off-spin of Zach Pearson (2-37) also collected 2 wickets, with one his victims being caught with an excellent diving catch in the slips by a sub fielder (McFee) donated by Hall Park. Jack Pearson had injured his hand, and an X-ray later revealed a broken knuckle. Katie Wynn (2-17) also nipped out 2 batsmen in 3.5 tight overs. The other wickets to fall went to Ross Suri (1-9), Callum Lowe (1-24) & the only bowler aged over 17, big Chris Karakiozakis (1-18). As well as Chris Karakiozakis’ 2 catches, Zach Pearson also collected 2 catches, and keeper Gabe Manthorp also took 1 catch.

With 9 juniors in the side Steeton’s batting was going to rely heavily on the experienced stand-in skipper David Hedges & the powerful hitting of Chris Karakiozakis. Unfortunately with the score on just 13 runs both men were back in the tent, and Steeton were batting for survival. Opener Gabe Manthorp played a mature innings of 45 runs scored from 75 deliveries with 6 boundaries. Gabe shared a 4th wicket stand of 25 runs with Zach Pearson (17), and then a 5th wicket stand of 18 runs with Danny Hanson (10). When Gabe was caught and the score on 102 runs for 7 wickets, Steeton’s last hope seemed to have departed. ‘Cometh the hour, cometh the man’ – or more accurately the boy & the girl! Katie Wynn (10) & Jake Hill (36*) shared a new Club record, battling 8th wicket partnership of 35 runs, to take the score to 137 runs for 8 wickets – still 18 runs short of the target! With the match in the balance, and Jack Pearson ready to bat one-handed, Jake Hill smashed the ball all around the field & out of the field! Jake’s controlled hitting saw Steeton to a surprising, but well deserved victory. Jake had scored a career best, unbeaten 36* runs from 35 deliveries with 4 fours & 1 six straight over the sightscreen. Steeton had scored 156 runs for 8 wickets from 37.5 overs, to record an unlikely win by 2 wickets with 3 overs to spare. It was a privilege to witness Steeton’s youngsters come through in this match, and gives you hope that our future generations of cricketers will be winners!


27th July 2008 v Horsforth (A) in Chappell Cup - Lost by 109 runs

Horsforth 244 a/o in 39.5 overs

R Graves 37, G Wilson 7, S McCullough 28, A Robinson 100, D Childs 27, W Baker 9, T Lewis 4, M Wainwright 5, B Wainwright 7, J Pickering 6*, J Parker 1, Extras 13

C Karakiozakis 10-0-43-3, R Suri 8.5-1-36-2, J Emmott 5-0-29-1, Z Pearson 5-0-35-1, C Lowe 4-0-31-1, J Hill 5-0-36-0, D Hanson 2-0-23-1

Steeton 135 a/o in 32.4 overs

D Hedges 2, G Manthorp 19, A Howarth 6, Z Pearson 6, J Emmott 59*, D Hanson 0, J Hill 0, C Lowe 0, D Austick 5, R Suri 8, C Karakiozakis 21, Extras 9

R Graves 5-1-16-2, J Pickering 6-1-19-1, J Parker 5-0-27-1, A Robinson 5-2-9-3, M Wainwright 5-1-15-2, B Wainwright 5-0-35-0, S McCullough 1.4-0-10-1

Steeton 3rd XI have lost in the semi-final of the Chappell Cup. Batting first Horsforth scored 244 runs all out in 39.5 overs; at total built upon some aggressive hitting from Robinson (100), who needed just 64 deliveries to score a century, before being clean bowled by Chris Karakiozakis. Chris was Steeton’s main wicket taker with 3 wickets for 43 runs. His opening partner, Ross Suri collected 2 wickets at a cost of 36 runs, and there was a single wicket each for Danny Hanson (1-23), James Emmott (1-29), Callum Lowe (1-31) & Zach Pearson (1-35). Keeper Gabe Manthorp was in fine form behind the wickets with 2 stumpings, and there was a catch apiece for James Emmott & Jake Hill.

At tea Steeton knew they would have to score at over 6 runs per over if they are to progress to the Chappell Cup Final. In reply Steeton lost their first 4 batsmen with only 49 runs on the board, with Gabe Manthorp (19) the only one to reach double figures. Batting at No5, James Emmott (59*) was the only batsmen to come to terms with the Horsforth attack. James scored his 59* runs from 69 deliveries with 1 six & 9 fours. With 3 ducks in the late middle order none of the batsmen were able to support James, until a late rearguard effort from Chris Karakiozakis (21) batting at No11. Chris faced just 20 balls & hit 3 boundaries for his 21 runs, and shared a Club record last wicket partnership of 45 runs with James. Steeton could only manage 135 runs and were all out in 32.4 overs, and so will play no further part in the Cup competition.


3 August 2008 v Thackley (A) - Lost by 6 wickets

Steeton 127 a/o in 37.4 overs

D Hedges 52, M Chapman 7, Z Pearson 25, D Hanson 0, J Emmott 1, M Hedges 20, J Hill 0, R Suri 0, D Austick 0, L Watson 2, G Hill 1*, Extras 19

C Whitehead 9-0-18-3, M Dunn 10-0-28-1, J Bogue 10-1-33-0, A Naylor 5-0-21-2, R Ramsay 3.4-0-8-3

Thackley 128-4 in 26 overs

J Bogue 49, A Swaine 21, M Dunn 30*, A Medley 4, A Mills 9, D Ramsay 0*, Extras 15

R Suri 5-0-12-0, J Emmott 7-2-20-0, Z Pearson 5-2-30-1, D Hanson 5-1-26-1, J Hill 3-1-15-1, D Austick 1-0-17-1

On Sunday our 3rd XI featured some ‘golden oldies’ at Thackley – with Graham Hill & Mark Chapman playing & the sprightly 50-year-old Mark Hedges keeping wicket! Asked to bat first Steeton’s innings was led by opener David Hedges, who scored 52 runs from 86 deliveries with 1 six & 4 fours. David shared an opening stand of 30 with Mark Chapman (7), and a 2nd wicket stand of 37 with Zach Pearson (25). Zach’s 25 runs came from 32 balls & included 3 boundaries. When David was bowled shortly after reaching his half-century Steeton wickets started to tumble, with 4 ducks & only Mark Hedges (20) able to offer any resistance. Mark faced 31 balls & hit 2 boundaries in his responsible knock of 20 runs. Unfortunately Steeton could only muster 127 runs all out in 37.4 overs.

Thackley made short work of their reply – scoring at almost 5 runs per over. There was a single wicket each for Jake Hill (1-15), Danny Austick (1-17), Danny Hanson (1-26) & Zach Pearson (1-30). Rolling back the years behind the wicket Mark Hedges had 2 stumpings, and debutant Luke Watson took a catch. Thackley scored 128 runs for the loss of just 4 wicket in 26 overs, to win by 6 wickets with 16 overs to spare. Steeton leave Thackley without any points.


10 August 2008 v Green Lane (A) - Rained-Off (1-1)

Steeton 1pt

Rained Off

Green Lane 1pt

Rained Off

This match was called-off in the morning, with heavy rain showers causing large puddles on an already soaking field.


17 August 2008 v Horsforth (H) - Rained-Off (1-1)

Steeton 1pt

Rained Off

Horsforth 1pt

Rained Off

With heavy overnight rain the game was called off, because the pitch was waterlogged. Both sides collect a single point.


24 August 2008 v Harden (H) - Winning Draw (5-1)

Steeton 220-7 in 40 overs

D Hedges 21, G Manthorp 3, P Barrett 14, J Pearson 11, D Hanson 1, A Howarth 75*, Z Pearson 0, R Suri 0, C Karakiozakis 65*, Extras 30

H Driver 5-0-36-0, N Parker 10-3-20-2, P Topham 10-2-22-2, M Topham 10-0-59-1, W Booth 1-0-16-0, T Cummins 4-0-46-0

Harden 158-5 in 40 overs

T Cummins 49, M Topham 18, P Topham 26, N Cummins 5, J Robinson 3, G Dixon 17*, T Stordy 5*, Extras 35

R Suri 8-0-15-1, C Karakiozakis 5-0-20-0, C Lowe 10-0-22-3, Z Pearson 10-0-33-0, D Austick 5-0-35-1, D Hanson 2-0-16-0

Steeton batted first and, thanks largely to a fantastic new league record 8th wicket partnership of 130 runs, we scored 220 runs for 7 wickets in 40 overs. Steeton’s innings began carefully on a drying pitch with David Hedges (21) and Phil Barrett (14) taking the score to 49 runs before losing our 2nd wicket. But 49 runs for 2 wickets was soon reduced to 90 runs for 7 wickets, with only Jack Pearson (11) managing double figures. Skipper Alex Howarth (75*) has been in fine form all season, and along with the maverick Chris Karakiozakis (65*) they began Steeton’s fightback. Alex faced just 65 balls and hit 2 sixes & 10 fours for his unbeaten 75* runs, and Chris Karakiozakis scored his undefeated 65* runs from just 49 deliveries, which included 2 sixes & 8 fours.

In reply Harden’s top-order batsmen all scored well and they had passed the 100 runs mark before losing their 2nd wicket. For Harden their opener Cummins (49) top-scored. The pick of the Steeton bowlers was undoubtedly Callum Lowe, who bowled an excellent 10 overs and collected 3 wickets for just 22 runs. There was also a wicket apiece for Ross Suri (1-15) & Danny Austick (1-35). In the field David Hedges took 2 catches & skipper Alex Howarth took a hard hit catch on the boundary. Harden soon settled for chasing the ¾ score of 165 runs, but were denied the extra point with a tight final over bowled by Chris Karakiozakis (0-20). Steeton could only get out 5 of the Harden batsmen, but tight bowling backed-up by excellent fielding restricted Harden to 158 runs for 5 wickets in their 40 overs. Steeton finished with a 5-1 winning draw & a new record 8th wicket partnership


31 August 2008 v Horsforth Hall Park (A) - Abandoned (1-1)

Horsforth Hall Park 133-5 in 33 overs

L Barraclough 48, D Smith 34, R Dale 4, C Atter 4, S Rose 5, M Shaw 13*, J Senior 6*, Extras 19

C Karakiozakis 7-0-25-0, R Suri 6-3-13-0, C Lowe 5-0-21-1, Z Pearson 10-0-40-3, J Hill 5-0-20-1

Steeton 1pt

Rain Stopped Play

Steeton managed to bowl 33 overs, and had reduced Horsforth Hall Park to 133 runs for 5 wickets, when the forecasted rain arrived, and that finished the day’s proceedings. Hall Park’s opening batsmen both scored well, with Barraclough (48) & Smith (34) having an opening stand of 57 runs. The opening stand was broken by Callum Lowe (1-21) with a nice catch by Ross Suri at point, which earned him a fielding point. The sharp off-spin of Zach Pearson then ripped out the next 3 batsmen, and he finished his 10 overs at a cost of 40 runs as he collected 3 wickets. Hall Park’s top-scorer, Barraclough (48) fell just short of his half-century to the bowling of Jake Hill (1-20). This is the 4th time this season that the rain has caused the abandonment of Steeton 3rd XI matches, and both sides have to settle for a single point each.


7 September 2008 v Calverley (H) - Rained-Off (1-1)

Steeton 1pt

Rained Off

Calverley 1pt

Rained Off

This damp-squid of a season has ended disappointingly with the field being declared unfit in the morning. This is the 6th fixture which has been abandoned or cancelled resulting in a 1-1 draw.


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