Fixtures 2019

2nd XI3rd XI

First XI 2019

20 April 2019 - 1st XI v Kirkstall Educational (A) - Lost by 1 wicket (9-17)

Steeton 305-4 in 50 overs

Kirkstall Educational 306-9 in 49.4 overs

After a sub-arctic pre-season friendly last week Steeton travelled to Kirkstall to make a start to the 2019 season basking in bright warm sunshine. Steeton won the toss and with little hesitation new skipper Gary Boulton chose to bat first. Steeton’s batting was led by Craig Walton, who scored a blistering 107 runs from 122 deliveries, including 4 sixes & 15 fours. Craig shared a fantastic 116-run 2nd wicket partnership with Harris Rowlett, who contributed a fine 44 runs from 46 deliveries with 3 sixes & 4 fours. Making his Steeton debut Cameron Knowles scored a fabulous unbeaten 63* runs from 69 deliveries, with 1 six & 7 fours  and shared a 66-run 3rd wicket stand with Craig Walton, followed by an even better unbroken 5th wicket partnership of 76 runs with Tom Stead, who crashed a lightning 57* runs from just 27 deliveries smashing 4 sixes & 5 fours. Steeton closed with a mammoth 305 runs for the loss of 4 wickets in their 50 overs. In the not too distant past a score of 200 runs would make you odds-on to win…and a score of 300 plus was unheard of. The modern game now means a side with 300+ runs under its belt is by no means assured of victory.

On an excellent batting track no Steeton bowler was able to exercise any control an inhibit the rapid scoring and so the first two Steeton successes came from run outs effected by Bradley Akrigg & Tom Stead. These 2 players were involved with the next wicket to fall as Tom Stead took a catch from the bowling of Bradley Akrigg (1-61). Also on debut was James Robinson (2-48) who collected a brace of wickets, including a catch by keeper Craig Walton. Following his 1st innings century Craig was working hard to bring about a Steeton victory with a run-out and a stumping from the bowling of Stephen Pearson (1-69). As wickets fell the Steeton target was fast approaching and a nerve-jangling finish was assured. Spinner Tom Stead (2-49) picked up a couple of late wickets with a catch taken by his brother Joe Stead. Joe Stead & Bradley Akrigg were awarded the fielding points. Kirkstall Educational were 9 wickets down but managed to scrape to victory with a mere 2 balls to spare. Kirkstall had scored 306 runs for the loss of 9 wickets in 49.4 overs. Steeton (9 points) lost to Kirkstall Educational (17 points) by 1 wicket.

Craig Walton is my Man-of-the-Match for Steeton

Full Scorecard


27 April 2019 - 1st XI v Beckwithshaw (H) - Abandoned (7-7)

Beckwithshaw 192-9 in 38 overs

Steeton 50-3 in 13.3 overs

Rain and a poor forecast left most thinking that no play would by possible today, but after a short rain delay the match got underway with a small reduction in overs to 48 per side. Steeton won the toss and unsurprisingly asked Beckwithshaw to bat first. In the 4th over further rain forced the teams from the field and 20 more overs were taken out of the game. Steeton pace attack broke the opening partnership with keeper Craig Walton taken a catch from the bowling of Steve Pearson (1-19). It was when pace was taken off the ball that wickets started to tumble. Evergreen skipper Gary Boulton collected 4 wickets with his medium pace away swing, conceding 61 runs from 12 overs courtesy of comfortable catches pouched by Bradley Akrigg & Tom Stead. Gary should have converted his bowling into a ‘5-for’ with a skied ball that should have been easily taken. Bradley also collected 4 wickets for 65 runs from 13 overs supported by some excellent catching: Harris Rowlett & Cameron Knowles both with low catches collected at point as well as a well-judged catch on the mid-wicket boundary by James Robinson. Cameron Knowles & Harris Rowlett were awarded fielding points. In order to make the overs even Beckwithshaw declared after 38 overs having scored an excellent 192 runs for the loss of 9 wickets.

Steeton reply began with darkening skies. It was looking a little shaky with 2 men back in the pavilion and just 12 runs on the board, a position that worsened when last-week’s centurion Craig Walton (19) was caught & bowled and Steeton were 27 runs with 3 wickets down. The innings was steadied when Bradley Akrigg (10*) came out to join Cameron Knowles (16*)…their unbroken partnership taking Steeton to 50 runs in 13.3 overs before further rain forced the players from the field. Despite many attempts to re-start, play was eventually halted with the weather the only winner. Steeton collect 3 points for the draw as well as 4 bowling points; Beckwithshaw also collect 7 points with (3 draw, 3 batting, 1 bowling). So with honours even this was probably a fitting time for this abortive fixture to end.

Bradley Akrigg is my Man-of-the-Match

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4 May 2019 - 1st XI v Olicanian (A) - Lost by 5 wickets (5-20)

Steeton 182 a/o in 47.2 overs

Olicanian 183-5 in 50.3 overs

On a chill day Steeton 1st XI travelled to Olicanian looking for their first win of the season. Olicanian won the toss and asked Steeton to bat first. Steeton’s start was disastrous as they crashed to 9 runs with 3 wickets in 7 overs..and then 41 runs with 4 wickets back in the tent in the 15th over. Cameron Knowles continued his great start to his Steeton career with an excellent innings of 48 runs scored from 89 deliveries with 5 boundaries. Cameron steadied the innings with a fine 81-run 5th wicket partnership with Stephen Pearson, who also contributed a great 48 runs scored from 63 deliveries with 7 boundaries. A further solid 36-run 7th wicket partnership between Tom Stead (24) & Elliott Wilson (12) saw Steeton to 169 runs with 7 wickets down. Tom scored his 24 runs from 30 deliveries with 3 boundaries & Elliott Wilson hit 1 boundary as he faced 19 balls for his 12 runs. Steeton’s tail did not wag and we were all out for 182 runs in 47.2 overs.

In reply Olicanian lost their first opener to the very first delivery of the innings..Stephen Pearson taking a return catch from his own bowling. Stephen was later to take a second c&b and finished with 2 wickets for 39 runs from 12.3 overs. Stephen also took a catch from the bowling of skipper Gary Boulton, who finished with 2 wickets for 31 runs from 11 overs. Stephen Pearson and John Akrigg were awarded fielding points with John taking a catch off the bowling of Cameron Knowles (1-16), which left Olicanian looking wobbly at 101 runs with 5 wickets down. Unfortunately that was the end of Steeton’s success as an unbroken 82-run stand saw Olicanian through to a 5-wicket victory, although they did need 1 of the additional overs that Steeton had donated. Worryingly Steeton had also donated 32 runs as extras, including 21 runs in wides. Olicanian finished with 183 runs for the loss of 5 wickets in 50.3 overs. Steeton (5 points) lost to Olicanian (20 points) by 5 wickets.

Stephen Pearson is my Man-of-the-Match for Steeton

Full Scorecard


11 May 2019 - 1st XI v Saltaire (H) - Lost by 96 runs (5-17)

Saltaire 166 a/o in 42.3 overs

Steeton 70 a/o in 33.5 overs

Still looking for their first win of the season, Steeton hosted Saltaire at Summerhill Lane. Saltaire won the toss and elected to bat first. A rapid opening burst by Joe Stead was rewarded with 3 wickets as Saltaire crumpled to 42 runs with 4 wickets down. Joe finished with commendable figures of 3 wickets for 38 runs from 9 overs, with catches taken by his cousin Stephen Pearson & his brother Tom Stead. Pick of the bowlers was skipper Gary Boulton, who took 4 wickets for 48 runs from 11.3 overs. With a catch taken by Luke Watson, Bradley Akrigg (1-25) nipped out a single wicket as Saltaire had further collapsed to 70 runs with 7 wickets down. Saltaire’s tailend batsmen were staging a rearguard action, despite a run-out by Stephen Pearson and Steve’s tight bowling earned a single wicket as he only conceded 29 runs from his 10 overs. The last 3 Saltaire batters added a further 96 runs and they finished with 166 runs all out in 42.3 overs. John Akrigg & Tom Stead were awarded fielding points. Steeton would have 57 overs to bat and a required run-rate of just 3 runs per over…a task which could have been made easier if they had not donated 35 extras, including 23 wides.

Steeton’s reply can only be described as a disaster. The first 3 wickets tumbled with a mere 5 runs on the board. The one and only Steeton batsman to show any resistance to a strong Saltaire bowling attack was Harris Rowlett. To his credit Harris batted for 71 deliveries and hit 4 boundaries as he scored a respectable 24 runs. Unfortunately he was the only Steeton batsman to reach double figures. He was also involved in the only 2 minor partnerships worthy of mention: Harris shared a 16-run 4th wicket partnership with opener Craig Walton (9) and there followed a shuttering of wickets which saw Steeton collapse to 22 runs with 6 wickets down; Harris went on to share a respectable 43-run 7th wicket partnership with Stephen Pearson (5), but when both departed with the total score on 65 runs the end was quick. Steeton were skittled all out for a meagre 70 runs in 33.5 overs. Steeton (5 points) lost to Saltaire (17 points) by 96 runs.

Gary Boulton is my Man-of-the-Match for Steeton

Full Scorecard


12 May 2019 - 1st XI v Leeds Modernians (A) in League T20 Cup - Lost by 6 wickets

Steeton 185-5 in 20 overs

Leeds Modernians 189-4 in 17.4 overs

Having lost the toss and been asked to bat first Steeton had a poor start losing both openers with just 4 runs on the board. The experienced Craig Walton halted the collapse with a solid 58-run 3rd wicket stand with Cameron Knowles. Cameron hit 5 boundaries as he notched 28 runs from 20 balls faced. Craig went on to share an even better 60-run partnership with Bradley Akrigg. When Craig departed with the Steeton total on 122 runs for 4 wickets he had scored 31 runs from 35 deliveries with 3 boundaries. Bradley Akrigg then proceeded to smash the ball to all quarters of this small ground and finished with a fantastic unbeaten 86* runs scored from just 44 deliveries with 7 sixes & 4 fours. Bradley was the major contributor in a 30-run 5th wicket stand with his dad John Akrigg (9) as well as an unbroken 33-run 6th wicket stand with Steve Pearson (10*). Largely thanks to Bradley’s efforts Steeton had set an impressive 186 runs target, having scored 185 runs for the loss of 5 wickets in their 20 overs…just over 9 runs per over.

In reply Steeton Steeton had Leeds Modernians reeling at 16 runs with 3 wickets down thanks once again to Bradley Akrigg, who bowled his 4 overs and took 2 of the wickets for 45 runs with a catch taken by Elliott Wilson. Skipper Gary Boulton (1-30) had a single wicket, but Leeds Mods were still piling on the runs. After their early success Steeton had to wait until the result was already beyond doubt before they enjoyed any further success. Poor fielding contributed to the lack of success. With the scores level Steve Pearson (1-28) took token wicket with a catch safely pouched by skipper Gary Boulton. The next delivery went to the boundary an Leeds Modernians completed their victory with 14 balls to spare. Leeds Mods had scored 189 runs for the loss of 4 wickets in 17.4 overs. Steeton crash out of the T20 cup at the first hurdle – losing by 6 wickets.

Bradley Akrigg is my Man-of-the-Match for Steeton

Full Scorecard


18 May 2019 - 1st XI v Bardsey (A) - Lost by 107 runs (6-20)

Bardsey 257-8 in 50 overs

Steeton 150 a/o in 37.3 overs

Still looking for their first win of the season, Steeton travelled to Bardsey. Steeton won the toss and asked Bardsey to bat first. Ex-Steeton player Ross Suri has been living in Australia since 2014, but is back in England to attend a couple of friends weddings…so has made himself available for selection for 2 weeks. Ross took the first 3 Bardsey wickets, which reduced them to 41 runs with 3 wickets down…and finished with excellent figures of 4 wickets for 68 runs from 15 overs, with catches taken by keeper Craig Walton & Steve Pearson. Steve Pearson & Harris Rowlett were awarded fielding points. Ross was also involved in a further wicket as he pouched a catch off the bowling of Tom Stead (1-16). Ross’s opening bowling partner was Steve Pearson, who also finished with the good figures of 3 wickets for 48 runs from 12 overs, with a 2nd catch for keeper Craig Walton. Bardsey closed with 257 runs for the loss of 8 wickets in their 50 overs.

In reply Steeton began well enough with a 30-run opening partnership between Elliott Wilson (14) & Craig Walton (18). However the only other partnership of any note was 67 runs added for the 3rd wicket between Harris Rowlett (30) & Cameron Knowles (38). Harris scored his 30 runs from 55 deliveries with 3 boundaries and Cameron top-scored with 38 runs 49 deliveries with 5 boundaries. From this solid opening Steeton crashed and no batsmen outside the top 4 was able to manage double figure. Steeton slid to 150 runs all out in 37.3 overs. Steeton (6 points) lost to Bardsey (20 points) by 107 runs.

Ross Suri is my Man-of-the-Match for Steeton

Full Scorecard


25 May 2019 - 1st XI v Tong Park Esholt (H) - Lost by 5 wickets (7-16)

Steeton 304-3 in 50 overs

Tong Park 307-5 in 46.3 overs

Still looking for their first win of the season, Steeton entertained Tong Park on a super-looking track at Summerhill Lane. Steeton skipper Gary Boulton duly won the toss and had little hesitation in choosing to have first use of a fine batting track. Steeton made a measured start to their innings with Craig Walton and child prodigy Will Luxton carefully guiding Steeton to 51 runs in the 18th over before Craig departed for a 34 runs scored from 51 deliveries with 7 boundaries. After this solid but sedate start Steeton began to increase the intensity as Will added 108 runs for the 2nd wicket in the next 21 overs with Freddie Pearson. Freddie was playing his first match since his injury in June last year, but he contributed an impressive 55 runs from 58 deliveries with 9 boundaries. Will & Cameron Knowles further increased the tempo of the innings as 6s started to disappear to all quarters of the field. In the final 12 overs they added 147 runs for the 3rd wicket with Cameron contributing and unbeaten 39* runs from just 25 deliveries with 2 sixes & 2 fours. Will was bowled off the last delivery of the innings attempting an overly extravagant shot, but not before he had scored a magnificent 160 runs from 166 deliveries, including 6 sixes & 16 fours. A treat of an innings and a privilege to watch, Will had registered the 3rd highest score by a Steeton 1st XI batsman. Steeton closed with a mammoth 304 runs for the loss of 3 wickets in their 50 overs.

In reply Tong Park were pegged back early…firstly by Ross Suri (1-56) forcing a miscued attempted pull, which was comfortably pouched by Freddie Pearson at mid-off…followed by a farcical run out with skipper Gary Boulton collecting the throw from keeper Craig Walton to remove the bails. Tong Park were wobbling at 54 runs with 2 wickets down, but a 163-run quick-fire 3rd wicket stand brought them back into the running. Playing his first game for Steeton since 2016 having just transferred back from Skipton, Adam Hardwick was quickly back into the wickets. Adam was well supported by some great catching firstly a hard-driven catch by Will Luxton in the covers…then Tong Park’s centurion was caught on the long-off boundary by Freddie Pearson…followed by a smart take by keeper Craig Walton. Both Will Luxton & Freddie Pearson were quite rightly awarded fielding points. Adam Hardwick finished with commendable figures of 3 wickets for 63 runs from 10.3 overs. Light rain made for difficult bowling conditions and poor light made fielding difficult. Unfortunately for Steeton, Tong Park’s impressive run chase was successful and they closed with 307 runs for the loss of 5 wickets in 46.3 overs to win by 5 wickets with 3½ overs to spare. Steeton (7 points) lost to Tong Park Esholt (16 points) by 5 wickets, and despite Will Luxton’s efforts, Steeton’s losing streak sadly continues.

Will Luxton is my Man-of-the-Match for Steeton

Full Scorecard


28 May 2019 - 1st XI v Sutton (A) in Keighley T20 Cup - Won by 5 wickets

Sutton 142-6 in 20 overs

Steeton 146-5 in 19.1 overs

Asked to bat first, Sutton set a battling 142 runs in their 20 overs. Bradley Akrigg claimed both opening batsmen and finished with 2 wickets for 21 runs from his 4 overs with a catch from his own bowling and also one taken by James Robinson. The next wicket fell to Luke Watson, who bowled 3 tight overs and finished with 1 wicket for 13 runs. Steve Pearson also bowled 4 tight overs which went for just 17 runs, but was wicketless. Pick of the bowling was Cameron Knowles, who finished with 3 wickets for 29 runs from his 4 overs. Just over 7 runs per over reuired.

In reply Steeton began slowly and lost both openers cheaply. As the required run rate climbed the match seemed to be favouring Sutton. Cameron Knowles scored a rapid 42 runs with 1 six & 5 fours and was ably assisted by Harris Rowlett, who ran the fielders ragged with his unbeaten 38* runs with 3 boundaries. A massive six from Craig Walton (15) smashed the huge pavilion window and a late cameo from Steve Pearson (19*) saw Steeton safely home. Steeton had scored 146 runs for 5 wickets in 19.1 overs. Steeton beat Sutton by 5 wickets with 5 balls to spare.

Cameron Knowles is my Man-of-the-Match for Steeton


1 June 2019 - 1st XI v Guiseley (A) - Won by 140 runs (20-3)

Steeton 238-7 in 50 overs

Guiseley 98 a/o in 31.1 overs

It has taken until June, but Steeton have now registered their first league victory. Guiseley won the toss and asked Steeton to bat first at Nethermoor Park. Steeton began nervously, with last week’s centurion Will Luxton departing without troubling the scorers…funny old game cricket! Steeton early order was held together by Craig Walton with a battling 34 runs scored from 49 deliveries with 4 boundaries. Craig shared a 29-run 2nd wicket partnership with Freddie Pearson (9), but when he departed Steeton were wobbling at 51 runs with 4 wickets down. Harris Rowlett has certainly come-of-age this year and is batting with real quality. Harris scored a fine half-century…his 52 runs coming from 103 deliveries with 5 boundaries. Harris shared an excellent 54-run 5th wicket partnership with Steve Pearson, who contributed 21 runs from 49 deliveries with 4 boundaries. Harris then went on to share an even better 6th wicket stand of 97 runs with Tom Stead, who registered his own half-century. Playing his first match as a married man, Tom scored a sparkling 54 runs from exactly 54 deliveries, including 1 six & 7 fours. Both Tom & Harris departed in quick succession, but Steeton’s strong batting lineup meant Bradley Akrigg (13*) & Adam Hardwick (16*) were available to add a further 32 runs for an unbroken 8th wicket partnership. Steeton closed with a competitive 238 runs for the loss of 7 wickets in their 50 overs.

In reply Guiseley began solidly and had reached 49 runs before an astute bowling change brought together Bradley Akrigg bowling his darting inswingers at the football end and Adam Hardwick bowling his off-breaks from the road end. Assisted by some fantastic fielding and catching they ripped through the entire Guiseley side. Bradley finished with a spectacular 7 wickets for 31 runs from 9.1 overs with a catch safely pouched by Tom Stead and a remarkable 5 catches taken by keeper Craig Walton, including a great diving one-handed take. At the other end Adam took 3 wickets for 25 runs from 9 overs, assisted by a fine reaction catch diving forward by Luke Watson, which earned Luke a fielding point. Will Luxton’s fielding (and almost great catch!) earned him 2 fielding points. Having lost their first wicket at 49 runs, Guiseley capitulated to 98 all out in 31.1 overs. Steeton (20 points) beat Guiseley (3 points) by 140 runs and move above the danger zone to 8th place in division 2.

Bradley Akrigg is my Man-of-the-Match

Full Scorecard


8 June 2019 - 1st XI v Ben Rhydding (H) - Abandoned (3-3)

Steeton 3pts

Ben Rhydding 3pts

This fixture became an early victim of the wet weather. Called off at 12:20pm.


15 June 2019 - 1st XI v Colton Institute (A) - Abandoned (8-5)

Colton Institute 167 a/o in 45.1 overs

Steeton

With a dismal weather forecast Steeton travelled to Colton hoping to avoid the rain and get a positive result. Steeton won an important toss and asked Colton to bat first. Early damage was done by opening bowler Steve Pearson who nipped out both opening batsmen and had Colton reeling at 33 runs with 2 wickets down. Steve finished with excellent figures of 3 wickets for 37 runs from 15 overs with a catch taken by keeper John Akrigg. Bradley Akrigg (2-49) continued the excellent start and his 2 wickets further reduced Colton to 80 runs with 5 wickets down. Skipper Gary Boulton (2-25) added a further 2 wickets to his already impressive career tally, with excellent catches pouched by Steve Pearson & Paul Hardwick – both were awarded fielding points. Aatif Modak (1-11) collected a single wicket with a catch taken by James Robinson, before the final 2 wickets were tidied-up by Paul Hardwick (2-45) with a catch taken by Cameron Knowles. Steetonhad bowled Colton Institute all out for 167 runs in 45.1 overs.Unfortunately the promised rain came during the tea break and no further play was possible. The match was rained off with Steeton collecting 8 points and Colton Institute having to settle for 5 points.

Stephen Pearson is my Man-of-the-Match

Full Scorecard


22 June 2019 - 1st XI v New Rover (H) - Lost by 106 runs (4-20)

New Rover 291-3 in 50 overs

Steeton 185 a/o in 41.1 overs

Steeton won the toss and with the benefit of hindsight probably made the wrong decision to field first on a good track at Summerhill Lane. After making an early breakthrough with the score on just 4 runs, Steeton found wickets hard to come by. The only bowler to take any wickets was Paul Hardwick, who took 3 wickets for 72 runs from 13 overs with catches taken by Elliott Wilson and Stephen Pearson, which earned him a fielding point. Steeton spent most of the afternoon chasing leather, and New Rover racked-up 291 runs for the loss of just 3 wickets in their 50 overs.

Steeton’s reply began with a solid 32-run opening partnership between Elliott Wilson (24) & Craig Wilson (16). Elliott scored his 24 runs from 35 deliveries with 5 boundaries. Coming in at No3 Freddie Pearson was in imperious form as he scored a fabulous 75 runs from 88 deliveries with 1 six & 9 fours. Freddie shared a fine 74-run 3rd wicket partnership with Harris Rowlett, who contributed 19 runs from 47 balls faced with 1 boundary. Despite quick-fire knocks from Bradley Akrigg (18) & Steve Pearson (19) Steeton crashed from 122 runs with 3 wickets down to 185 runs all out in 41.1 overs. Steeton (4 points) lost to New Rover (20 points) by 106 runs and slip to 2nd to bottom of the division.

Freddie Pearson is my Man-of-the-Match for Steeton

Full Scorecard


29 June 2019 - 1st XI v Horsforth Hall Park (A) - Won by 3 wickets (18-5)

Hall Park 169-9 in 50 overs

Steeton 173-7 in 42.3 overs

Steeton lost the toss and on a warm, sunny day and were of course asked to field first. Steeton made early inroads into the Hall Park batting with opening bowler Paul Hardwick (2-41) claiming both opening batsmen, one being caught by Bradley Akrigg. With more wickets tumbling the main recipient was off-spinner Adam Hardwick, who took 4 wickets for 55 runs from his 15 overs with a catch taken by Tom Stead. Also in the wickets was Bradley Akrigg, who took 3 wickets for just 22 runs from 8 overs with a C&B, a catch by Adam Hardwick as well as a spectacular diving catch by Steve Pearson, which earned him 2 fielding points. At the end of their 50 overs Hall Park had lost 9 wickets and scored 169 runs.

Steeton’s reply began with a solid 44-run opening partnership between Elliott Wilson (18) & Craig Walton (21). Elliott scored his 18 runs from 28 deliveries with 3 boundaries, while Craig scored his 21 runs from 46 deliveries with 4 boundaries. Steeton’s middle order was held together by an excellent 31 runs scored by Cameron Knowles, which included 1 six & 4 fours and came from 68 balls faced. Cameron shared a 35-run 5th wicket partnership with Tom Stead (11) followed by a 36-run 6th wicket partnership with Bradley Akrigg (42*). Bradley was the top-scorer as he guided Steeton to a much needed victory, with his unbeaten 42* runs coming from 39 deliveries with 1 six & 5 fours. Steeton had scored 173 runs for the loss of 7 wickets in 42.3 overs. Steeton (18 points) beat Horsforth Hall Park (5 points) by 3 wickets and in such a tight division they move 3 places above the relegation zone.

Bradley Akrigg is my Man-of-the-Match

Full Scorecard


6 July 2019 - 1st XI v Kirkstall Educational (H) - Won by 78 runs (20-8)

Steeton 341-7 in 50 overs

Kirkstall Educational 263 a/o in 44.1 overs

On a sunny day at Summerhill Lane, Steeton won the toss and elected to bat first. So far so good! What should be an easy batting track saw Steeton’s top order in disarray as the top 5 batsmen were dispatched back to the tent with just 33 runs on the board and only Cameron Knowles (15) managing double figures. What followed this poor start was quite remarkable. Cousins Tom Stead and Steve Pearson amassed a fantastic, record-breaking 6th wicket partnership of 305 runs. Tom Stead was the chief run-scorer as he registered the 3rd highest score by any Steeton player in the history of the club. Tom scored a fabulous 180 runs from just 132 deliveries with 7 sixes & 23 fours; while Steve fell just short of what would have been his maiden 1st XI century. Steve deserved a century, but had to settle for 94 runs scored from 116 deiveries with 9 boundaries. Both batsmen were out with the end of the innings in sight having taken Steeton from 33-5 to 338-7. Steeton closed with a mammoth 341 runs for the loss of 7 wickets in their 50 overs.

In reply Paul Hardwick (1-50) with a catch by Steve Pearson and skipper Gary Boulton (1-40) accounted for the openers with Kirkstall proceeding to 96 runs. Kirkstall’s top scorer Mangalarapu (85) was dismissed by a smart run-out by Harris Rowlett. After his batting heroics, Steve Pearson was not allowed any respite as he opened the bowling and claimed 2 wickets for 33 runs from 7.1 overs, with 2 catches safely pouched by keeper Cameron Knowles. The remaining Kirkstall wickets fell to Steeton’s off-spinners: Aatif Modak (1-43) had a catch taken by batting hero Tom Stead; but pick of the bowlers was Adam Hardwick, who took 4 wickets for 78 runs for 15 overs, with 2 return catches off his own bowling and further 2 catches by Steve Pearson, who was awarded 2 fielding points. With 94 runs, 2 wickets, 3 catches and 2 fielding points Steve had a great all-round performance. Kirkstall Educational were all out for 263 runs in 44.1 overs. Steeton (20 points) beat Kirkstall (8 points) by 78 runs.

Tom Stead is rather unsurprisingly my Man-of-the-Match

Full Scorecard


13 July 2019 - 1st XI v Beckwithshaw (A) - Won by 6 wickets (20-5)

Beckwithshaw 184 a/o in 44.1 overs

Steeton 185-4 in 47.3 overs

Beckwithshaw won the toss and chose to bat first, their top order were blitzed by a great opening blast by Stephen Pearson. Steve took the first 3 wickets all caught behind by keeper Cameron Knowles to reduce Beckwithshaw to 30-3. The middle-order fell to Steeton’s spin-twins: Adam Hardwick came out on top with 4 wickets for 59 runs from 11 overs, with great catches taken by Steve Pearson and Will Luxton. Steve was awarded a fielding point, while Will was given 2 fielding points. Aatif Modak (1-14) had a catch taken by Harris Rowlett and Beckwithshaw were 144 runs with 8 wickets down. Late hitting by ex-Steeton player Stuart Hudson (28*) added late runs, but the innings was wrapped up by the return of Steve Pearson, who claimed the last 2 wickets with a catch from his own bowling. Steve finished with a fine 5-wicket haul…his 5 wickets came from 13.1 overs which conceded just 43 runs. Beckwithshaw were bowled all out for 184 runs from 44.1 overs.

A wobbly start to Steeton’s reply saw them teetering at 11 runs and 2 wickets down. Steeton’s boy-wonder opening batsman was still at the crease and the innings was built around his precocious talent. Will shared a good 76-run 3rd wickets partnership with Cameron Knowles, who contributed 43 runs from 74 deliveries with 7 boundaries. Will then went on to share another good 78-run 4th wickets partnership with Harris Rowlett, who contributed 32 runs from 68 deliveries with 4 boundaries. The final unbeaten 5th wicket partnership saw Steeton through to a comfortable victory, with last week’s batting hero Tom Stead (14*) smashing 2 sixes. Will Luxton carried his bat and finished with an excellent unbeaten 69* runs from 126 deliveries with 9 boundaries. Steeton had scored 185 runs for the loss of 4 wickets in 47.3 overs. After a poor first half of the season, Steeton have now won 3 matches in a row. Steeton (20 points) beat Beckwithshaw (5 points) by 6 wickets.

Stephen Pearson is my Man-of-the-Match.

Full Scorecard


16 July 2019 - 1st XI v Denholme (H) in Keighley T20 Cup - Won by 20 runs

Steeton 173-6 in 20 overs

Denholme 153-7 in 20 overs

Steeton won the toss and confidently chose to bat first. Clearly the correct decision as they had scored 50 runs in the first 7 overs before losing the first wicket: Freddie Pearson caught for 28 runs from 24 balls faced with 3 boundaries. Freddie had opened with Cameron Knowles, who added a further 27 runs for the 2nd wicket before being caught behind for 35 runs from 30 deliveries with 4 boundaries. At No3 Tom Stead scored a 27-ball half-century, before being caught out for 54 runs from 29 deliveries having smashed 3 maximums and 2 fours. Tom shared a 45-run 4th wicket partnership with Steve Pearson, who contributed an unbeaten 26* runs from just 20 deliveries with 2 maximums & 1 four. Harris Rowlett (10) provided a late cameo before being run-out off the final delivery. Steeton had scored a mammoth 173 runs for the loss of 6 wickets in their 20 overs. Denholme would have to maintain a run-rate of over 8½ runs per over to win this match.

In reply Aatif (1-23) had a great catch taken in ‘cow corner’ by Steve Pearson to get Steeton off to a good start. Then Steve Pearson (1-20) took the 2nd wicket caught behind by Cameron Knowles…but Denholme were going well at 103-2 in the 13th over. Adam Hardwick (1-22) had a good catch taken in the gathering gloom by Elliott Wilson on the long-on boundary. Keeper Cameron ran out one of the batsmen, but the pick of the bowlers was Ewan Johnston, who finioshed with 3 wickets for 30 runs from his 4 overs, with 2 excellent boundary catches by Adam Hardwick. Denholme were unable to maintain the rate required and fell 20 runs short having scored 153 runs for the loss of 7 wickets in their 20 overs. Steeton cruise through this quarter-final match and have successfuly made it into the finals day: both semi-finals (10:30am Keighley v Oxenhope & 1:30pm Steeton v Crossflatts) and then the final to be played at Lawkholme Lane on Sunday 4th August.

Stephen Pearson is my Man-of-the-Match.


20 July 2019 - 1st XI v Olicanian (H) - Won by 4 wickets (19-5)

Olicanian 160 a/o in 48.5 overs

Steeton 164-6 in 39.1 overs

Steeton won the toss and chose to field first on a dampish wicket at Summerhill Lane. Steeton’s opening blast saw Olicanian reeling at 55 runs with their top 5 batsmen already back in the tent. Chief destroyer was Steve Pearson with 3 of the scalps, but ably assisted by Paul Hardwick with 2 wickets for 30 runs from 13 overs with a catch taken by Aatif Modak. The middle order was dismantled by Bradley Akrigg who took 3 wickets for 21 runs from just 4 overs and had catches taken by Adam Hardwick & Steve Pearson – both were awarded fielding points. The tail was neatly polished off by the return of Steve Pearson, who collected his 2nd consecutive 5-wicket haul: Steve took 5 wickets for 59 runs from 14.5 overs, courtesy of 2 catches by keeper Cameron Knowles, a 2nd catch by Adam Hardwick and Elliott Wilson. Olicanian had been bowled all out for 160 runs in 48.5 overs.

In reply Steeton wobbled at 22 runs having lost both openers, but equilibrium was restored by a solid 65-run 3rd wicket partnership between Freddie Pearson (35) and top-scorer Cameron Knowles (43). Freddie scored his 35 runs from 64 deliveries with 1 six & 5 fours, while Cameron scored his 43 runs from 50 deliveries with 1 six & 6 fours. The scoreboard was kept rolling by cameo knocks by Harris Rowlett (12) and Tom Stead (11), before Bradley Akrigg smashed an unbeaten 22* runs from 22 balls faced to see Steeton through to their 4th league win in a row. It was nice to recieve 27 runs donated as wides with 33 runs as extras. Steeton has scored 164 runs for the loss of 6 wickets in 39.1 overs. Steeton (19 points) beat Olicanian (5 points) by 4 wickets and now move into 4th place in division 2…poised for a promotion push!

Steve Pearson is my Man-of-the-Match

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27 July 2019 - 1st XI v Saltaire (A) - Abandoned (3-3)

Steeton 3pts

Saltaire 3pts

This fixture was a victim of the wet weather. No play possible.


3 August 2019 - 1st XI v Bardsey (H) - Abandoned (7-11)

Barsdey 223-9 in 50 overs

Steeton 56-8 in 27 overs

Steeton won the toss and with rain a forecasted threat decided to field first at Summerhill Lane. Both openers were removed by opening bowler Paul Hardwick, who finished with 2 wickets for 32 runs from 9 overs, with a stumping by keeper Cameron Knowles. Bardsey consolidated and added 73 runs for their 3rd wicket, before skipper Gary Boulton (1-23) broke the partnership with a catch taken by James Robinson. Adam Hardwick (1-28) took a return catch off his own bowling, but Bardsey were continuing to score well. Steve Pearson took 2 middle-order wickets and conceded 49 runs from his 12 overs with catches taken by Freddie Pearson & keeper Cameron Knowles. Luke Watson was the other successful bowler as he took 2 wickets for 39 runs from 8 overs…and also effected a run out. Freddie Pearson & Elliott Wilson were awarded fielding points. Barsdey finished their 50 overs with 223 runs on the board having lost 9 wickets.

Steeton’s reply began disastrously with a crash of wickets leaving them at 29 runs with 4 wickets down and only David Robinson (12) managing double figures. Stephen Pearson (13) and James Robinson (10) added 21 runs for the 5th wicket, but a further shuttering of wickets saw Steeton staring defeat in the face at 56 runs with 8 wickets down after 27 overs. It was at this point that the promised thundery rain arrived and effectively saved Steeton from an almost certain defeat. No more play was possible and Steeton had a rain affected draw. Steeton take 7 points from this encounter while Bardsey take 11 points.

Steve Pearson is my Man-of-the-Match for Steeton

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4 August 2019 - 1st XI v Crossflatts at Lawkholme Lane in Keighley T20 Cup - Lost by 65 runs

Crossflatts 181-7 in 20 overs

Steeton 116 a/o in 18 overs

Steeton asked Crossflatts to bat first and then grabbed a quick wicket thanks to run out with Phil Barrett making a diving stop and while still prone lobbing the ball to Steve Pearson to complete the removal of the bails. Crossflatts had moved on 80 runs in the 9th over before losing their 2nd wicket with a skied catch caught by keeper Cameron Knowles of the bowling of Luke Watson (1-24). Johnny Atherton (1-32) then accounted for the next wicket with a catch safely pouched by Luke Watson. Steve Pearson bowled 4 overs which only went for 16 runs and was rewarded with a single wicket, which allowed skipper Gary Boulton to catch out his son-in-law! Steve also ran out Crosflatts opener Shanhawaz, who had made 90 runs with a bullet throw from the long-on boundary inch-perfect to the keeper Cameron Knowles to complete a simple removal of the bails. Bowling the final over skipper Gary Boulton collected 2 wickets for 32 runs with catches safely pouched by Phil Barrett and Steve Pearson on the long-on boundary. Crossflatts had score a formidable 181 runs for the loss of 7 wickets in their 20 overs. Steeton would need to score at over 9 runs per over to reach the final, which would be against Keighley CC, who had beaten Oxenhope CC earlier in the day.

Steeton’s top-scorer was Cameron Knowles, who scored a entertaining 34 runs from 35 deliveries with 4 boundaries and Cameron shared a fine 2nd wicket partnership with Freddie Pearson who contributed 13 runs from 14 deliveries with 1 boundary. The remaining batters were only able to contribute cameo knocks: James Robinson scored 10 runs and 3 later order batsmen all contributed 11 runs each: Johnny Atherton, Luke Watson & Phil Barrett. Steeton were 116 runs all out in 18 overs. Steeton lost to Crossflatts by 65 runs and did not progress to the final, which was won by Keighley CC.


10 August 2019 - 1st XI v Tong Park Esholt (A) - Abandoned (3-3)

Steeton 3pts

Tong Park 3pts

Steeton travelled to Tong Park Esholt, but it soon became obvious that any slim hopes of fulfilling this fixture were forlorn. This game was unable to begin so both sides have to settle for a 3 points draw.


17 August 2019 - 1st XI v Guiseley (H) - Won by 126 runs (18-4)

Steeton 194-9 in 40 overs

Guiseley 68 a/o in 34.2 overs

Summerhill Lane was quite damp and so the start of this fixture was delayed for an hour and became a 40-overs per side fixture. Steeton lost the toss and so unsurprisingly were asked to bat first. A disastrous start saw Steeton tumble to 10 runs with 3 wickets down and then 40 runs with 4 wickets down and only James Robinson (12) of the top 4 batsmen managing double figures. The fightback began once again when Stephen Pearson was joined by his cousin Tom Stead and together they added an excellent 91 runs for the 5th wicket. Steve scored 36 runs from 67 deliveries with 5 boundaries, while Tom top-scored with a flamboyant 63 runs scored from just 56 deliveries with 1 six & 6 fours. Both perished to boundary catches in the same over. A succession of cameo innings followed with Bradley Akrigg (16), Luke Watson (14) and Adam Hardwick (14) being the major contributors. Paul Harwick (7*) faced just 2 deliveries, but smashed the latter delivery for a maximum, to close the Steeton innings on a formidible 194 runs for the loss of 9 wickets in their 40 overs…just short of 5 run per over.

Guiseley’s reply began as badly as had Steeton’s, but they did not have a strong middle order to come to their rescue. With only 3 batsmen able to make double figures and a top-score of just 14 runs the Guiseley batting was not up to the task. The top-order was wiped out by Paul Hardwick, who took 4 wickets for just 16 runs from his 12 overs, and had catches taken by Will Luxton, Freddie Pearson and keeper John Akrigg. Will Luxton was awarded a fielding point. The next 2 wicket fell to skipper Gary Boulton (2-11), before off-spinner Adam Hardwick wiped out the tail with 3 wickets for 10 runs from 5 overs, courtesy of catches taken by Bradley Akrigg, Tom Stead & Stephen Pearson. The final wicket went to Luke Watson (1-0) with a catch safely pouched by Paul Hardwick. Guiseley had been bowled all out for a meagre 68 runs in 34.2 overs. Steeton (18 points) beat Guiseley (4 points) by 126 runs.

Tom Stead is my Man-of-the-Match

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24 August 2019 - 1st XI v Ben Rhydding (A) - Won by 76 runs (16-5)

Steeton 129 a/o in 44 overs

Ben Rhydding 53 a/o in 27 overs

Steeton lost the toss at Coutances Way and were asked to bat first. Apparently the heavy roller was inaccessible so the damp track was “difficult”. In the context of what would become a low scoring fixture, Steeton’s 2nd wicket partnership of 56 runs was of far greater importance than it would seem. The stand was between Steeton’s young prodigy Will Luxton (44) & Freddie Pearson (26). Will had carefully compiled his 44 runs from 79 deliveries with 6 boundaries, while Freddie had faced 50 balls and hit 3 boundaries as he too grafted hard for his 26 runs. With the score on 78 runs with 3 wickets down both batsmen were out and Steeton eked out what runs they could manage. Only 2 further batsmen managed double figures: Cameron Knowles (11) & Stephen Pearson (14) as the wickets tumbled. Steeton were bowled all out for 129 runs in 44 overs.

In reply Steeton’s opening bowlers made full use of the difficult batting conditions to rip through the Ben Rhydding batting order. Chief destroyer was Steve Pearson, who bowled 14 overs and conceded just 19 runs as he collected a fabulous 7 wickets, including a return catch off his own bowling. Steve bowled unchanged from one end, while Paul Hardwick bowled 13 overs unchanged from the other end and he collected 3 wickets for 29 runs with a catch by keeper Cameron Knowles. Will Luxton was awarded a fielding point. Ben Rhydding never came to terms with their own track and were blitzed all out for a meagre 53 runs in 27 overs (less than Steeton’s 2nd wicket partnership!) Steeton (16 points) beat Ben Rhydding (5 points) by 76 runs.

Stephen Pearson in my Man-of-the-Match

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31 August 2019 - 1st XI v Colton Institute (H) - Lost by 7 wickets (2-20)

Steeton 126 a/o in 42 overs

Colton Institute 127-3 in 28.1 overs

Steeton lost the toss at Summerhill Lane and with rain forecast Colton Institute asked Steeton to bat first. A solid opening pairing meant Steeton had reached 51 runs with both openers out: Will Luxton had scored 17 runs from 34 balls faced with a single boundary,  while Aatif Modak top-scored with 24 runs from 49 deliveries with 4 boundaries. From 51 runs for 2 wickets Steeton lost their middle-order with none of the next 5 managing double figures…Steeton wobbling at 84 runs with 7 wickets down. Stephen Pearson (11) added 15 runs for the 8th wicket partership with Adam Hardwick, who went on to score 17 runs from 39 deliveries with 4 boundaries. Adam also shared a good 25-run 9th wicket partnership with skipper Gary Boulton (10), but Steeton subsided to 126 runs all out in 42 overs.

In reply Steeton’s opening bowlers demolished the Colton top-order and had them reeling at 20 runs with 3 wickets down. Stephen Pearson had a single wicket for just 13 runs from 9 overs, while Paul Hardwick had 2 wickets with his 9 overs costing 38 runs. Paul had a catch taken by Will Luxton, who was awarded a fielding point. Unfortunately 20-3 was as good as it got for Steeton, because they were unable to remove any further Colton batsmen. Colton passed the uncompetitive Steeton total with 29 overs to spare having score 127 runs for the loss of 3 wickets in 28.1 overs. Steeton (2 points) lost to Colton Institute (20 points) by 7 wickets.

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7 September 2019 - 1st XI v New Rover (A) - Lost by 4 wickets (6-18)

Steeton 186-7 in 50 overs

New Rover 188-6 in 45.5 overs

Asked to bat first Steeton lost early wickets and a mini-collapse saw them slum to 31 runs with 3 wickets down. This brough together the Luxton brothers – Will & Jack. Together they added 52 runs for the 4th wicket with elder brother opener Will scoring 27 runs from 77 deliveries with 3 boundaries being outscored by his younger brother Jack who scored 31 runs from 54 deliveries with 1 six & 3 fours. Top scorer for Steeton was James Robinson with an unbeaten half-century…James scored his 56* runs not out from 61 deliveries with 7 boundaries. James shared an unbroken 49-run 8th wicket partnership with skipper Gary Boulton, who contributed an unbeaten 20* runs from 27 delivery with 3 boundaries. After their 50 overs Steeton had scored 186 runs for the loss of 7 wickets.

In reply Steeton struggled to make any significant inroads into the New Rover batting. Aatif Modak (1-24) and skipper Garu Boulton (1-32) courtesy of a catch by Paul Hardwick, took a single wicket each. There was a brace of wickets for off-spinner Adam Hardwick (2-29), who had catches taken by Will Luxton & Elliott Wilson and also Jack Luxton (2-25) who had catches taken by Aatif Modak & keeper Cameron Knowles. Aatif Modak was awarded a fielding point. Helped by an embarrassing tally of 21 wides, New Rover scored 188 runs for the loss of 6 wickets in 45.5 overs to beat overhaul the Steeton target with 4 overs to spare. Steeton (6 points) lost to New Rover (18 points) by 4 wickets.

Jack Luxton is my Man-of-the-Match for Steeton

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14 September 2019 - 1st XI v Horsforth Hall Park (H) - Lost by 114 runs (5-20)

Hall Park 229 a/o in 47.5 overs

Steeton 115 a/o in 37.1 overs

Steeton lost the toss and Hall Park chose to bat first for the last game of the season at Summerhill Lane. Opening the bowling was 15-year-old youngster Jack Luxton, who ripped out both openers and had Hall Park reeling at 16 for 2. Jack’s opening partner was Paul Hardwick, who took the next 3 wickets and finished with excellent figures of 3 wickets for 24 runs from 9 overs with catches taken by Bradley Akrigg, his brother Adam Hardwick & keeper Cameron Knowles. When Bradley Akrigg (1-43) removed the next batsman Hall Park had been reduced to 76 runs with 6 wickets down. As Hall Park tried to consolidate, off-spinner Aatif Modak collected a further 2 wicket for 40 runs from 9 overs. The innings was concluded by the return of Jack Luxton, who collected another couple of wickets to finish with a fabulous 4 wickets for 38 runs from 9.5 overs, with catches safely pouched by Luke Watson, Tom Stead & keeper Cameron Knowles. Will Luxton was awarded a fielding point as Hall Park recovered from 76-6 to post a competitive 229 runs all out in 47.5 overs.

Steeton’s reply began badly with both openers back in the pavilion with just 12 runs on the board. Harris Rowlett steadied the innings with a solid 54-run 3rd wicket partnership with Cameron Knowles. Harris top-scored with a fine 30 runs from 48 deliveries with 5 boundaries, while Cameron grafted out 18 runs from 70 deliveries with 2 boundaries. After the departure of Harris & Cameron only Bradley Akrigg showed any resistance as he scored a belligerent 25 runs from 27 deliveries with 1 six & 4 fours. No other batsman could manage double figures as Steeton slumped to 115 runs all out in 37.1 overs. Steeton (5 points) lost to Horsforth Hall Park (20 points) by 114 runs. Steeton finish the season in 7th place in the 2nd division.

Jack Luxton is my Man-of-the-Match for Steeton

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1st XI3rd XI

Second XI 2019

20 April 2019 - 2nd XI v Beckwithshaw (H) - Won by 10 wickets (20-0)

Beckwithshaw 74 a/o in 36.5 overs

Steeton 76-0 in 9.1 overs

A gloriously sunny start to the 2019 season in the 5th division saw Steeton entertain Beckwithshaw at Summerhill Lane. New skipper Callum Lowe lost the toss and Beckwithshaw decided they would bat first. Beckwithshaw began steadily, but Steeton controlled the runs with tight bowling backed-up by tidy fielding. Skipper Callum Lowe (1-8) made the early break-through and on debut young left speed-merchant Will Smith (1-23) showed great potential and provided keeper Oliver Gledhill with a comfortable catch. Testing out a sore shoulder Paul Hardwick finished with 3 wickets for 19 runs from his 11 overs. However this match will always be associated in people’s memories with the emergence of the raw talent that is Johnny Atherton. Johnny always gives 100% and today he was rewarded as his booming away-swingers earned him a fantastic 5-wicket haul. Johnny first removed the only stubborn Beckwithshaw batsman with a catch taken by Paul Hardwick and went on to finish with 5 wickets for just 9 runs from 5.5 overs as he totally blitzed the Beckwithshaw tail. Paul Hardwick & Johnny Atherton were awarded fielding points. Beckwithshaw had been dismissed for 74 runs all out in 36.5 overs.

In reply Steeton also employed Johnny as an opening batsman along with the experienced David Robinson. Together they guided Steeton to a comfortable 10 wicket victory to start the season in style. David Robinson finished with an unbeaten 25* runs from 25 deliveries with 6 boundaries, but he was eclipsed by his partner Johnny Atherton who scored an unbeaten 39* runs from just 30 deliveries with 1 six & 7 fours. Steeton had scored 76 runs without losing a wicket in 9.1 overs to with by 10 wickets and collect the full 20 overs. Here’s Johnny!

Johnny Atherton is my Man-of-the-Match

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27 April 2019 - 2nd XI v Olicanian (A) - Drawn (3-3)

Olicanian 1-0 in 1.2 overs

Steeton

Rain was the only winner at Olicanian today. Steeton won the toss and asked Olicanian to bat first on a damp track with more rain forecast. Skipper Callum Lowe bowled the first over which conceded a single and 2 dot-balls into the second over by Ewan Johnston the rain returned…end of proceedings. Olicaninan had scored 1 runs in 1.2 overs without losing a wicket. Both sides collect 3 points.

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4 May 2019 - 2nd XI v Saltaire (H) - Lost by 4 runs (7-17)

Saltaire 147 a/o in 39.3 overs

Steeton 143 a/o in 38.1 overs

On a bitterly cold day Steeton won the toss and asked Saltaire to bat first on a greenish track at Summerhill Lane. Skipper Callum Lowe (1-13) collected the first Saltaire wicket, but Steeton’s catching was letting them down and they failed to press home their early advantage. Johnny Atherton (1-29) collected a further wicket with a thin edge taken by keeper Oliver Gledhill…and Paul Hardwick (1-38) collected 1 wicket, but was unlucky not to be rewarded with more. Ewan Johnston bowled 6.3 tight over which only conceded 16 runs as he was rewarded with 2 wickets, including a fine catch taken by Will Smith. Will Smith’s catching was by no means finished as he took a further 3 catches off his own bowling, including an athletic catch diving forward and another where the batsman appeared to deliberately run straight into him to put him off. A total of 4 outfield catch for Will Smith means he is added to the Club’s fielding records. He was also awarded 2 fielding points. Will’s catching helped him to an excellent 5 wicket haul as he took 5 wickets for 29 runs from 6 overs. Saltaire were all out for 147 runs in 39.3 overs…normally a straightforward chase, but Steeton were a little short on batting this week.

In reply Steeton were led by the 5-wicket hero Will Smith, who scored a well crafted 33 runs from 70 deliveries with 4 boundaries. Will shared an excellent 55-run 2nd wicket partnership with Oliver Gledhill, who contributed a top-scoring 35 runs from 30 deliveries with 8 boundaries. Will then went on to add 37-runs for the 3rd wicket partnership with Finlay Brown, whose solid contribution was 17 runs from 35 deliveries with 4 boundaries. Will was out with the Steeton score on 100 runs for the loss of 4 wickets…just a further 48 runs required, but Phil Barrett (23) needed someone to build a match winning partnership with. Unfortunately no-one outside the top 5 batsmen were able to contribute double figures. Phil Barrett was the last man caught out trying to smash the boundary which would have brought the scores level. Phil had scored 23 careful runs from 36 deliveries with 2 boundaries. Steeton were all out for 143 runs in 38.1 overs – a tantalising 4 runs shy of the meagre Saltaire target. Steeton (7 points) narrowly lost to Saltaire (17 points) by 4 runs.

Will Smith is my Man-of-the-Match for Steeton


11 May 2019 - 2nd XI v Kirkstall Educational (A) - Abandoned (3-4)

Steeton 29-2 in 7.5 overs

Kirkstall

Steeton arrived at Kirkstall and warmed-up in relatively nice weather, but having lost the toss and been asked to bat the covers were put on an rain made an unwelcome appearance. After over an hour the rain gave way to bright sunshine and the decision was made to have the teabreak early to allow the sun to dry the sodden outfield. When Steeton finally went out to bat the match had been reduced to 29 overs per side. After a gloriously sunny early teabreak the skies once again darkened and a light drizzle gradually became light rain. With the score on 25 runs opener Elliott Wilson was well caught at mid-on having scored 19 runs from 24 deliveries with 3 boundaries. His opening partner was Will Smith, who was clean bowled shortly after with the score on 31 runs. In the worsening conditions Will Smith had scored 11 runs from 16 deliveries with 2 boundaries. After just 7.5 overs Steeton had scored 39 runs for the loss of 2 wickets when the sides were forced from the ground never to return. It rapidly became clear that the rain was set-in and no further play would by possible…the match was abandoned. Steeton collected 3 points and having taken 2 wickets Kirkstall Educational collected 4 points

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12 May 2019 - 2nd XI v Green Lane (A) in Birtwhistle T20 Cup - Lost by 9 wickets

Steeton 80-5 in 20 overs

Green Lane 82-1 in 10.4 overs

It was by now means Steeton’s strongest side that turned up at Nunroyd Park to play the first round of the Birtwhistle cup with key players on suspension or away playing representative cricket or promoted to help out the 1st XI. Colin Stead was brought out of retirement and Mikey Tennant was also playing after a 2-year absence. Neither player let the side down. Stand-in skipper David Robinson lost the toss and Steeton were duly asked to bat first. An opening stand of 15 runs was broken when unlikely opener Colin Stead (9) was castled. His opening partner Max Hibbert scored 16 runs from 41 deliveries and shared partnerships of 19 runs with skipper David Robinson (9) and 11 runs with Finlay Brown (4). When Max departed Steeton had scored 45 runs in 14 overs. Phil Barrett upped the run-rate with an unbeaten 20* runs scored from 17 deliveries with 1 boundary. James Yeadon faced just 4 balls for 5 runs before Phil added 17 runs for the unbroken 6th wicket partnership with Mikey Hofman-Tennant (2*). Steeton scored too few runs to set set a competitive target as they closed with 80 runs for the loss of 5 wickets in their 20 overs.

In reply Steeton had early success with a skied top-edge safely pouched by keeper Max Hibbert from the bowling of Harry Rowe (1-10). However having Green Lane at 19 runs with 1 wicket down was the last success Steeton enjoyed. Green Lane completed a comfortable 9 wicket victory in the 11th over. Green Lane scored 82 runs for the loss of a single wicket in 10.4 overs – helped by Steeton bowling 14 wides. Steeton crash out of this year’s Birtwhitle T20 Cup at the first hurdle – losing by 9 wickets.

Max Hibbert is my Man-of-the-Match for Steeton

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18 May 2019 - 2nd XI v Burley-in-Wharfedale (H) - Won by 5 wickets (19-4)

Burley-in-Wharfedale 133-9 in 45 overs

Steeton 134-5 in 25.1 overs

Steeton entertained Burley-in-Wharfedale at Summerhill Lane. Skipper Callum Lowe won the toss and decided to field first. Ewan Johnston made the initial breakthrough with the score on 11 runs coutesy of a well taken catch taken at point by Will Smith. Ewan finished with 2 wickets for 29 runs from 9 overs. Also with 2 wickets was skipper Callum Lowe (2-34). The pick of the bowlers was Paul Hardwick, who claimed 4 victims…Paul’s 4 wickets came from 13 overs which conceded just 27 runs, with a catch safely pouched at mid-off by Harry Rowe and a nick through to keeper Oliver Gledhill. The other wicket to fall went to Will Smith (1-23), but Steeton were unable to wheedle out the last stubborn wicket and Burley closed with a mere 133 runs for the loss of 9 wickets in their 45 overs. Steeton’s fielding as well as the bowling was of a high standard and Max Hibbert was awarded 2 fielding points.

In reply Steeton’s opening partnership was left-handed: youngster Will Smith and experienced David Robinson. Together they forged a 92-run opening stand, which put the result beyond any real doubt. David Robinson was the first batsman to fall, having scored 39 runs from 55 deliveries with 1 six & 5 fours. Will went on to share a 23-run 2nd wicket partnership with Oliver Gledhill, who contributed 22 runs from 13 deliveries with 5 boundaries. With just 18 runs required Steeton lost 3 needless wickets, but Will Smith was masterful. Will finished with an unbeaten 60* runs scored from 70 deliveries with 4 sixes & 6 fours. Steeton passed the meagre Burley target with 5 wickets and almost 20 overs to spare. Steeton had scored 134 runs for the loss of 5 wickets in 25.1 overs. Steeton (19 points) beat Burley-in-Wharfedale (4 points) by 5 wickets.

Will Smith is my Man-of-the-Match

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25 May 2019 - 2nd XI v Skipton (A) - Won by 6 wickets (18-2)

Skipton 92 a/o in 32.4 overs

Steeton 94-4 in 19.5 overs

Steeton won the toss and asked Skipton to bat first at Sandylands. Early damage was caused by skipper Callum Lowe (1-17) with a catch through to keeper Oliver Gledhill…and Ewan Johnston (2-17) who once again bowled a tight line and was rewarded with 2 wickets as his miserly 7 overs only conceded 17 runs. Paul Hardwick (2-26) also claimed 2 wickets, but was the pick of the bowling was undoubtedly Luke Watson, who finished with 4 wickets for just 24 runs from 9 overs with a catch taken by skipper Callum Lowe. Luke also fielded well in the covers to run out the other Skipton wicket. Will Smith was awarded a fielding point as Skipton closed with a below-par 92 runs all out in 32.4 overs.

Steeton’s reply was led by the experienced David Robinson, who top-scored with 36 runs scored from 63 deliveries with 6 boundaries. David shared a 34-run 3rd wicket partnership with Elliott Wilson, who contributed 14 runs from 18 deliveries with 2 boundaries. With the meagre Skipton target in sight David was bowled, and it was left to Oliver Gledhill (13*) & Luke Watson (5*) to guide Steeton to a comfortable victory. Steeton had scored 94 runs for the loss of 4 wickets in 19.5 overs. Steeton (18 points) beat Skipton (2 points) by 6 wickets. Steeton are currently in 4th place in division 5.

Luke Watson is my Man-of-the-Match

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1 June 2019 - 2nd XI v Bolton Villas (H) - Won by 10 wickets (20-0)

Bolton Villas 22 a/o in 13.1 overs

Steeton 23-0 in 2.2 overs

Steeton totally annihilated a poor Bolton Villas side. Bolton Villas won the toss and on the track that had yielded over 600 runs last week they chose to bat first. Steeton were immediately into the weak Bolton Villas batting lineup. Skipper Callum Lowe led the way with his pace attack claiming a fantastic 7 wicket haul…Callum’s 7 wickets coming from 7 overs which conceded just 8 runs. Callum had catches taken by Aatif Modak, Johnny Atherton & 3 by Elliott Wilson. Elliott Wilson & Aatif Modak were both awarded 2 fielding points. At the other end the metronomic Ewan Johnston collected the other 3 wickets at a cost of just 14 runs from 6.1 overs, with 2 catches taken by John Akrigg and 1 by James Robinson. Bolton Villas were all out for a measly 22 runs in 13.1 overs, setting a new Club record lowest total against.

Steeton made short work of the reply. Johnny Atherton scored an unbeaten 5* runs from just 6 balls faced with 1 boundary. Johnny opened with Will Smith, who scored 13* runs not out from just 8 deliveries with 3 boundaries. Steeton needed just 2.2 overs to pass the meagre Bolton Villas target scoring 23 runs without losing a single wicket. Sorry for anyone who came to Steeton expecting to see a match, but the proceeding were all over by 2:20pm. Steeton (20 points) beat Bolton Villas (0 points) by 10 wickets and move to 3rd place in division 5.

Callum Lowe is my Man-of-the-Match

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8 June 2019 - 2nd XI v Harden (A) - Abandoned (3-3)

Steeton 3pts

Harden 3pts

Steeton travelled to bottom placed club Harden hoping rather than expecting to get a game played. Having watched the rain for a couple of hours at Cuckoo’s Nest, the inevitable was accepted and any attempt to play were abandoned. Both sides receive 3 points.


15 June 2019 - 2nd XI v Menston (H) - Abandoned (8-4)

Steeton 141-2 in 27.3 overs

Menston 37-6 in 20 overs

Steeton lost the toss and were inserted to bat first at Summmerhill Lane. Opener David Robinson shared an excellent 91-run 2nd wicket partnership with Elliott Wilson. Elliott completed a well-earned half-century…his 53 runs came from 63 deliveries with 9 boundaries, whereas David was unbeaten just short of his half-century with 46* runs scored from 77 deliveries with 6 boundaries. David also shared an unbroken 41-run 3rd wicket stand with Johnny Atherton, who contributed 15* runs not out from 22 deliveries with 3 boundaries. After 27.3 overs the players were forced from the field by the rain with Steeton on 141 runs for the loss of 2 wickets in 27.3 overs. With the bad weather looking ‘set-in’ an early tea-break was taken, but despite as both sides watched the rain the overs were ticking down.

Finally with just 20 overs left in the match the rain relented and this fixture could continue. Steeton declared meaning Menston had to score at 7 runs per over for 20 overs…or Steeton had to take 10 wickets…otherwise this match would be a rain-affected draw. Menston made little effort to score maintain a reasonable run-rate and looked content to survive for 20 overs. Steeton began smartly with a aggressive short-pitched barrage by Ewan Johnston (1-3) being rewarded with a wicket from an attempted pull which was comfortably pouched by Elliott Wilson at mid-on. Pace-bowler Joe Stead (1-11) had the next wicket with a chip to mid-wicket easily caught by Finlay Brown. A smart piece of fielding by Joe Stead, whose pick-up and throw to keeper Max Hibbert, combined with a muddled attempted run, resulting in a run-out. Menston were 22 runs with 3 wickets down. Pick of the bowlers was Johnny Atherton, who collected 2 wickets for 12 runs from 3 overs, with 2 catches taken in the slips: the first a looping catch to Ewan Johnston at  3rd slip, followed by a sharp one-handed catch at 2nd slip by skipper Callum Lowe, which earned him a fielding point. In the last over of the 20, Will Smith (1-4) had a leg-side edged catch through to keeper Max Hibbert. Steeton were unable to force a positive result, but were in by far the better position as Menston finished the match with 37 runs for the loss of 6 wickets in 20 overs. Steeton had a rain-effected drawn match, with Steeton collecting 8 points while Menston took just 4 points.

Elliott Wilson is my Man-of-the-Match

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22 June 2019 - 2nd XI v Calverley (A) - Won by 63 runs (19-6)

Steeton 235-6 in 45 overs

Calverley St Wilfrids 172-8 in 45 overs

3rd placed Steeton travelled to Victoria Park to meet top-of-the-division, Calverley St Wilfrid’s. Calverley won the toss and gave Steeton first use of a dry track. Steeton lost young opener Will Smith (10) cheaply with the score on just 15 runs, but Steeton’s 2 Robinsons amassed an impressive 101-run 2nd wicket stand. James Robinson scored an impressive half century and finished with 59 runs scored from 65 deliveries with 11 boundaries; while David Robinson went on to score a fantastic 91 runs from 121 deliveries with 2 sixes & 12 fours. Steeton’s excellent scoring continued with Luke Watson, who shared a rapid 96-run 3rd wicket stand with David Robinson, and was eventually caught on the boundary for a fine 40 runs from 54 balls faced with 3 boundaries. In the last few overs of their innings Steeton lost a few needless wickets, but still closed with a competitive 235 runs for the loss of 6 wickets in their 45 overs.

In reply Steeton skipper Callum Lowe (2-39) nipped out both Calverley openers with a sharp slip catch collected by Phil Barrett…Calverley were 19 runs with 2 wickets down. Will Smith (1-24) took a single wicket with a sharp catch nonchalantly collected at mid-wicket by Harry Rowe. Pick of the bowlers was undoubtedly Luke Watson, who notched-up a 5-wicket haul. Luke finished with 5 wickets for 45 runs from 12 overs, including a C&B as well as an excellent catch on the boundary by Harry Rowe, who was awarded a fielding point. With 8 wickets down Steeton were warned about their slow over-rate and the priority shifted from taking wickets to getting through the overs rapidly. Steeton did have chances to take some catches, but with skied catches going to Steeton’s younger players the crowd of spectators (Calverley’s 1st XI were back early having lost quickly) did their best to put off the catcher and the chances were spilled. Very disappointing and definitely unsportsmanlike! Calverley closed with 172 runs for the loss of 8 wickets in their 45 overs and Steeton had inflicted on them their first defeat of the season. Steeton (19 points) beat Calverley (6 points) by 63 runs. Steeton are 3rd in the division, but now just 6 points off the promotion places.

Luke Watson is my Man-of-the-Match

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29 June 2019 - 2nd XI v Horsforth Hall Park (H) - Won by 1 wicket (20-8)

Hall Park 179 a/o in 44.1 overs

Steeton 182-9 in 44 overs

3rd placed Steeton play 4th placed Hall Park on a warm, sunny day on a great looking track at Summerhill Lane. Hall Park had no hesitation in batting first. After an early breakthrough with the score on just 6 runs Steeton had to work hard in stifling heat for any further success. Excellent fielding kept the run-rate low and produced the next wicket with a throw by James Robinson to keeper Max Hibbert for a run-out. Harry Rowe (1-32) was unlucky to only collect 1 wicket, but it was Hall Park’s captain and top-scorer, who blasted the ball to mid-wicket where it was safely taken by Phil Barrett. Luke Watson collected another good wicket haul with 3 wickets for 50 runs from 13 overs, courtesy of a stumping and skied catch both by keeper Max Hibbert. Ewan Johnston’s tight bowling earned him a single wicket at a cost of 19 runs from 9 overs, but the pick of the bowlers was skipper Callum Lowe, who finished with 4 wickets for 49 runs from 11.1 overs and had catches taken by Johnny Atherton and Luke Watson, which earned him a fielding point. Hall Park had been bowled all out for 179 runs in 44.1 overs.

At the tea-break it was felt that Hall Park’s total was well below-par, but Steeton’s reply was a disaster as they slumped to 55 runs with all the top 5 batsmen back in the tent: Jack Luxton (11), James Robinson (14) & Luke Watson (11) being the ones to make double-figures. Playing just his 2nd innings of the season (the less said about his 1st inning last week the better!) Adil Modak was in great form. Along with Phil Barrett (11) Adil added 30 runs for the 6th wicket, but Steeton then slumped to 104 runs with 8 wickets down. Steeton were staring defeat in the face as Ewan Johnston came out to join Adil still requiring a further 75 runs and just 2 wickets in the tent. Together they turned the match back in favour of Steeton with a fantastic 68 runs for the 9th wicket partnership, before Ewan departed for an excellent 26 runs from 39  deliveries with 4 boundaries. With a tantalising 8 runs still required last man Harry Rowe went out to join the obdurate Adil Modak…this match was going right down to the wire! Harry Rowe (2*) stood firm and Adil hit the winning boundary. Adil finished with a wonderful unbeaten 64* runs from 87 deliveries with 9 boundaries. Steeton (20 points) scored 182 runs with 9 wickets down in 44 overs to beat Horsforth Hall Park (8 points) by 1 wicket.

Adil Modak is my Man-of-the-Match

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6 July 2019 - 2nd XI v Beckwithshaw (A) - Lost by 1 run (8-18)

Beckwithshaw 215-6 in 45 overs

Steeton 214-7 in 45 overs

On a dry, sunny day at Beckwithshaw Steeton lost the toss an Beckwithshaw elected to bat first. Steeton began well with stand-in skipper Luke Watson (1-45) removing one opener with a slip catch by Phil Barrett and Will Smith (1-35) removing the other. Beckwithshaw’s North brother & sister added 93 runs for the 3rd wicket with Josh North (104) converting a century. Pick of the bowlers was Ewan Johnston, who bowled 2 tight spells and finished with 4 wickets for 37 runs from 12 overs, with catches taken by David Wynn & Chris Luxton. Beckwithshaw closed with 215 runs for the loss of 6 wickets in their 45 overs.

In reply Steeton began solidly with opening batsman Jack Luxton (16) being the first to depart with the score on 32 runs to a diving catch in the slips. The total had progressed by a futher 41 runs before he was joined by David Robinson, who had scored 33 runs from 50 deliveries with 1 six & 3 fours. Top-scorer for Steeton was No3 batsmen Chris Luxton, who scored an unbeaten 88 runs from 115 deliveries with 8 boundaries. Chris shared a 40-run 3rd wicket partnership with Will Smith, who contributed 19 runs from 42 deliveries with 3 boundaries; followed by an excellent 82-run 5th wicket, which looked like it would lead Steeton to victory. The 5th wicket stand was with skipper Luke Watson, who scored a quick-fire 33 runs from just 24 deliveries with 1 six & 1 four, before being frustrated by a series of deliberate leg-side deliveries and was then fell victim to a dubious LBW decision. With 8 runs needed in the final over Steeton lost a further 2 wickets with Phil Barrett caught on the boundary and David Wynn adjudged run-out by the narrowest of margins (by the same umpire who had just given Luke out). Steeton needed 4 off the final delivery to tie, but could only scramble 3 runs. Steeton had scored 214 runs for the loss of 7 wickets in their 45 overs. So Steeton (8 points) lost by 1 run to Beckwithshaw (18 points).

Chris Luxton is my Man-of-the-Match for steeton

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13 July 2019 - 2nd XI v Olicanian (H) - Won by 4 wickets (18-5)

Olicanian 141-8 in 45 overs

Steeton 145-6 in 36.2 overs

Olicanian won the toss and had little hesitation in batting first on a humid day at Summerhill Lane. Steeton soon had Olicanian on the rack at 27 runs with 3 wickets down: Ewan Johnston (2-22) with a brace of wickets and the other falling to skipper Callum Lowe, but both bowlers owed gratitude to keeper Max Hibbert, who had taken 2 excellent diving one-handed cacthes. Skipper Callum Lowe took further wicket in a 2nd spell and finished with 2 wickets for 38 runs with Luke Watson plucking a driven catch out of the air at mid-off. Pick of the bowlers was Will Smith who claimed 4 wickets for 16 runs from 6 overs with a 3rd catch for keeper Max Hibbert, a 2nd catch for Luke Watson at long-on and an incredible catch from a ball driven back for a c&b and a fielding point. A late flurry of runs brought Olicanian to a total of 141 runs for the loss of 8 wickets in their 45 overs.

Steeton’s reply began nervously as they lost 2 wickets with just 9 runs on the board. The innings was put back on track by a steady 41-run 3rd wicket partnership between top-scorer Luke Watson (69*) and Chris Luxton (20). Chris scored his 20 runs from 39 deliveries with 4 boundaries, while Luke scored a wonderful unbeaten 69* runs from 104 deliveries with 14 boundaries. A shuttering of wickets saw Steeton slip to 50 runs with 4 wickets down, but the resolute Luke Watson stood firm. Luke shared a 40-run 6th wicket partnership with Finlay Brown, who contributed 15 runs from 39 deliveries with 3 boundaries. Finally Luke shared an unbroken 7th wicket stand of 26 runs with Max Hibbert, who contributed 11* runs not out from 13 deliveries with 1 boundary. So back to winning ways for our 2nds following last week slender loss, as they scored 145 runs for the loss of 6 wickets in 36.2 overs. Steeton (18 points) beat Olicanian (5 points) by 4 wickets

Luke Watson is my Man-of-the-Match

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20 July 2019 - 2nd XI v Saltaire (A) - Lost by 34 runs (6-17)

Saltaire 143 a/o in 44.4 overs

Steeton 109 a/o in 39.5 overs

Steeton won the toss and asked Saltaire to bat first on a damp track in Roberts Park. The lively bounce was well exploited by opening bowler Ewan Johnston, who finished with his first senior 5-wicket haul. Ewan’s fantastic spell ended with his 5 wickets costing just 30 runs from 12.4 overs, with all 5 wickets being catches: 2 return cacthes taken off his own bowling and catches for keeper Max Hibbert, skipper Callum Lowe & David Robinson. Steeton had Saltaire on the ropes at 38 runs with 6 wickets down, but were unable to deliver a knock-out punch. Jack Luxton (1-21) took a single wicket well caught by Will Smith…and there was a brace of wickets apiece for skipper Callum Lowe (2-44)  including a c&b and James Robinson (2-18). On a day which did not see the best of Steeton’s fielding prowess, Callum Lowe was awarded a fielding point. Saltaire’s later batsmen were allowed to add valuable runs on a difficult track and they closed with 143 runs all out in 44.4 overs.

Steeton’s reply began with a solid opening partnership of 47 runs before Will Smith became the first Steeton batsman to be adjudged LBW with his total of 21 runs coming from 43 deliveries with 4 boundaries. Shortly afterwards his opening partner David Robinson was also LBW having top-scored with 32 runs coming from 45 balls faced with 6 boundaries. The only other significant partnership was 26 runs for the 4th wicket between the vastly experienced John Akrigg (22) and youngster Jack Luxton (17). John scored his 22 runs from 53 deliveries with 2 boundaries; while Jack scored his 17 runs from 60 deliveries with 1 boundary. With a further 2 batsmen given out LBW the Steeton tail did not wag…no-one from the last 6 batsmen could manage double figures. In a low scoring encounter Steeton were all out for 109 runs in 39.5 overs. Steeton (6 points) lost to Saltaire (17 points) by 34 runs.

Ewan Johnston is my Man-of-the-Match for Steeton

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27 July 2019 - 2nd XI v Kirkstall Educational (H) - Abandoned (3-3)

Steeton 3pts

Kirkstall Educational 3pts

Steeton’s match against Kirkstall Educational was rained off in the morning. Earlier this year the away fixture was also abandoned, so we were unable to get in a full match in against Kirkstall this season.


3 August 2019 - 2nd XI v Burley-in-Wharfedale (A) - Lost by 79 runs (6-18)

Burley-in-Wharfedale 235-7 in 45 overs

Steeton 156-7 in 45 overs

Steeton won the toss and asked Burley-in-Wharfedale to bat first at Hodson Park. Steeton’s bowling was not up to its usual high standard and Burley benefited as their top 4 batsmen all scored well. The were eventually out with a brace of wickets each for skipper Callum Lowe & David Wynn. David finished with 2 wickets for 55 runs from 10 overs with a caught behind by keeper Julian Higginson, while Callum finished with 2 wickets for 63 runs from 13 overs with a good catch taken by Will Smith and an excellent sharp take by Harry Rowe. Will & Harry were awarded fielding points. Pick of the bowlers was Jack Luxton, who took 3 wickets for 39 runs from 10 overs with a catch safely pouched by Finlay Brown. Burley closed with a formidable 235 runs for the loss of 7 wickets in their 45 overs.

Needing to score at 5¼ runs per over Steeton had only reached 50 runs after 20 overs and the asking rate had risen to almost 7½ runs per over. Opener Chris Luxton scored a solid 17 runs while veteran Robert Wynn scored 16 runs. Jack Luxton tried to up the scoring rate as he hit 2 sixes and a four in a 28 ball innings that added 23 runs. As Steeton pushed to increase the scoring rate wickets tumbled and we were wobbling at 65 runs with 6 wickets down in the 24th over. This brought together the Club President to bat with the Club Chairman (perhaps a unique occurence!) Together pentagenarians Julian Higginson and Phil Barrett amassed a 7th wicket partnership of 66 runs in 13 overs. Julian was finally bowled for an excellent 33 runs scored from 36 deliveries with 4 boundaries, while Phil was unbeaten with 38* runs scored from 64 deliveries with 3 boundaries. In fact the Club President was the Club’s top run scorer this weekend, with the Club Chairman being next top run scorer. Phil went on to add 23 runs for an unbroken 8th wicket partnership with Harry Rowe, who contributed a solid 16* runs not out from 23 deliveries. Steeton finished their 45 overs with 156 runs for the loss of 7 wickets. Steeton (6 points) lost at Burley (18 points) by 79 runs.

Jack Luxton is my Man-of-the-Match for Steeton

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10 August 2019 - 2nd XI v Skipton (H) - Abandoned (3-3)

Steeton 3pts

Skipton 3pts

Steeton sat and watched the rain at Summerhill Lane for an hour, before bowing to the inevitable. This fixture was abandoned without a ball being bowled. Both sides collect 3 points.


17 August 2019 - 2nd XI v Bolton Villas (A) - Won by 6 wickets (19-6)

Bolton Villas 188-8 in 45 overs

Steeton 189-4 in 40.3 overs

Steeton had more of a match on their hands than the home fixture, but won by 6 wickets. Bolton Villas were asked to bat first and scored 188 runs for 8 wickets in their 45 overs (150 more runs than the home match!). Skipper Callum Lowe (1-19) took the first wicket, but pick of the bowlers was Ewan Johnston, who took 3 wickets for 31 runs from 11 overs with a catch taken by Oliver Gledhill. Off-spinner Aatif Modak took 2 wickets for 40 runs, courtesy of a good catch by Callum Lowe, who was awarded 2 fielding points. Jack Luxton (1-47) had a catch taken by Elliott Wilson and would have also had a caught and balled had he not been headed out off the way by the batsman. Quick thinking by keeper Max Hibbert ran out another wicket when a farcical attemted run left both batsmen at the same end.

Steeton’s reply was led by an great 58* runs not out by young opener Will Smith, who hit 7 boundaries. Will had a 55-run opening partnership with Aatif Modak (28), who hit 3 boundaries, followed by a 19-run 2nd wicket partnership with Elliott Wilson (13). When the run-rate required a fillip it was duly provided by Oliver Gledhill, who smashed a quick-fire 46 runs including 2 sixes & 6 fours as he shared a 64-run 3rd wicket partnership with Will. Jack Luxton contribued 16 runs, before Adil Modak (8*) joined Will to see Steeton through to a comfortable victory. Steeton had scored 189 runs for the loss of 4 wickets in 40.3 overs to pass the Bolton Villas target with 4½ overs to spare. Steeton (19 points) beat Bolton Villas (6 points) by 6 wickets

Will Smith is my Man-of-the-Match

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24 August 2019 - 2nd XI v Harden (H) - Won by 242 runs (20-2)

Steeton 294-4 in 44 overs

Harden 52 a/o in 27.3 overs

Steeton won the toss and on a stifling hot day chose to bat first on a surprisingly damp pitch at Summerhill Lane. Helped by some indifferent fielding Steeton put on an opening partnership of 89 runs with young opener Will Smith scoring 36 runs from 46 deliveries with 1 six & 3 fours along with Aatif Modak, who went on to score a fabulous 74 runs from 74 deliveries with 7 boundaries. Aatif shared an 81-run 2nd wicket partnership with Jack Luxton, who deserved a century but went on to score a fantastic 94 runs from 94 deliveries with 2 sixes & 5 fours. Jack went on to share a great 4th wicket partnership of 97 runs with Luke Watson, who contributed an unbeaten 49* runs from 49 deliveries with 2 sixes. When Luke hit his 2nd maximum Harden’s spare ball was lost in the garden and so skipper Callum Lowe declared with just a single over of the innings left. Steeton had scored a mammoth 294 runs for the loss of 4 wickets in 44 overs.

Over the decades matches between Harden & Steeton have tended to be feisty hard-fought affairs. This match was not. Steeton took wickets regularly and only one Harden batsman managed double figures. Opening bowler Ewan Johnston began the demolition with 2 wickets for just 5 runs from 6 overs, including a fine catch by Will Smith. Skipper Callum Lowe (1-11) had a catch taken by keeper Max Hibbert. Pick of the bowlers was Aatif Modak, who clean bowled 3 batsmen including and conceded 11 runs from 5 overs. Youngster Wilf Roberts bowled 6 tight overs which only conceded 9 runs as he collected 2 wickets, including a 2nd catch for keeper Max Hibbert. Will Smith needed just 7 deliveries to polish off the Harden tail-enders was he took 2 wickets for 2 runs, including a great skied catch off his own bowling. Will Smith was awarded 2 fielding points. Harden had collapsed to 52 runs all out in 27.1 overs. Steeton (20 points) beat Harden (2 points) by 242 runs.

Aatif Modak is my Man-of-the-Match

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31 August 2019 - 2nd XI v Menston (A) - Won by 13 runs (18-7)

Steeton 185-8 in 40 overs

Menston 172-9 in 40 overs

Rain delayed the start of this fixture by 30 minutes and this fixture became a 40-overs per side match. Stand-in skipper Oliver Gledhill lost the toss and was asked to bat first. Steeton’s opening left-handed batting pair both contributed solid knocks: David Robinson (16) & John Akrigg (29). Top performer with the bat was Jack Luxton who scored a fantastic 85 runs from 84 deliveries with 3 sixes & 9 fours before being adjudged LBW. Skipper Oliver Gledhill chipped in with 14 runs before a mini middle-order collapse. Max Hibbert notched a valuable 12 runs which held together the Steeton tail. Steeton had scored 185 runs for the loss of 8 wickets in 40 overs at the tea break.

In reply Steeton were without their talismanic skipper Callum Lowe, who usually opens the bowling. In form Ewan Johnston added a further 2 wickets to an already impressive season’s tally as his miserly 12 overs conceded just 35 runs, with a catch taken by Johnny Atherton. Adil Modak (1-13) had a catch safely pouched by Finlay Brown and keeper Max Hibbert ran out one of the Menston openers. Pick of the bowlers however was undoubtedly Luke Watson, who finished with an excellent 5-wicket haul. Luke finished with 5 wickets for 37 runs from 14 overs, including a return catch from his own bowling. Luke Watson & Finlay Brown were each awarded fielding points. In a tight finish Steeton were unable to dislodge all 10 Menston batsmen in 40 overs, but finished with 9 wickets down as Menston posted 172 runs. Steeton (18 points) beat Menston (7 points) by 13 runs.

Jack Luxton and Luke Watson both deserve to be Men-of-the-Match

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7 September 2019 - 2nd XI v Calverley (H) - Won by 82 runs (18-4)

Steeton 155-8 in 45 overs

Calverley 73 a/o in 26.4 overs

Steeton did not have the best of starts to this fixture. Skipper Callum Lowe was away on his ‘stag do’ and had taken 2 first team players with him…meaning the 2nd XI were 3 players down. The altered start time from 1pm to 12:30pm also fooled some players, who were not at the ground as the coin toss was made. 72-year-old Phil Akrigg was drafted in to give Steeton a full complement of players, but with only 7 players available at the start vice skipper Oliver Gledhill won the toss and chose to bat first. Not the best preparation to face the team who were 2nd in the league. The experienced pairing of David Robinson & John Akrigg opened proceedings with a 35-run opening partnership before John Akrigg (6) fell to a spectacular catch in mid-wicket. David continued and added 19 further runs for the 2nd wicket with Will Smith (10). The Steeton middle-order lost 3 quick wickets to leave Steeton teetering at 61 runs for the loss of 5 wickets. Adil Modak joined David Robinson and together they added a fabulous 60 runs for the 6th wicket. When David was caught out he had scored 60 runs from 106 deliveries with 7 boundaries and Adil Modak was eventually ran out for a battling 38 runs scored from 67 deliveries with 5 boundaries. As the final overs approached Phil Barrett provided a late cameo innings with an unbeaten 17* runs from 17 balls faced with 2 boundaries biffed to ‘cow-corner’. Steeton closed with a competitive 155 runs for the loss of 8 wickets in their 45 overs.

In reply Steeton were without their usual opening bowlers: Callum on his stag party and Ewan called-up for first team duty. Steeton opened with two 15 year olds: Will Smith & Johnny Atherton. The initial breakthrough was made by Will Smith with a disgused slower delivery and Will’s 6 overs only conceded 9 runs as he collected a single wicket. Johnny Atherton (1-23) was not quite as economical but clean bowled the 2nd wicket with a ‘jaffer’. A farcical mix-up in the running led to the 3rd wicket with Luke Watson throwing in from the boundary for Will Smith to calmly remove the bails. Calverley were 23 runs with 3 wickets down. After 12 overs the compulsory change of bowling brought instant success as Phil Barrett pulled off a fantastic reaction catch at silly mid-on from Luke Watson’s first delivery. Likewise at the other end Adil Modak took a wicket with his very first delivery with a skied catch well taken by Luke Watson. Phil Barrett & Luke Watson were both awarded fielding points. Adil Modak finished with great haul of 3 wickets for 22 runs from 7 overs…but he was bettered by Luke Watson, who finished with 4 wickets for a miserly 6 runs from his 7.4 overs, with a difficult catch well taken by keeper John Akrigg and a low catch off his own bowling. Steeton had demolished the Calverley batting as they were all out for just 73 runs in 26.4 overs. Steeton (18 points) beat Calverley (4 points) by 82 runs.

Adil Modak is my Man-of-the-Match

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14 September 2019 - 2nd XI v Horsforth Hall Park (A) - Lost by 5 wickets (3-19)

Steeton 101 a/o in 35.1 overs

Hall Park 102-5 in 25.5 overs

Steeton won the toss and chose to bat first at Hall Park. Steeton got off to the worst of starts losing 2 wickets in the very first over. Young left-handed opener Will Smith was joined by the experienced left-hander John Akrigg and together they steadied the innings with a solid 34-run 3rd wicket partnership. Will scored 19 runs from 50 deliveries with 3 boundaries, while John went on to top-score with 34 runs from 65 deliveries with 6 boundaries. Johnny Atherton played a cameo innings as he hit a six & a four in an 11-ball knock of 12 runs, but with wickets tumbling Steeton had slumped to 79 runs with 9 wickets lost. Skipper Callum Lowe came in to join el presidente Phil Barrett and together they added a further 22 runs for the final wicket, which saw Steeton pass 100 runs. Callum was caught for 14 runs from 31 deliveries with 1 six & 1 four, while Phil remained unbeaten with 10* runs. Steeton had managed a meagre 101 runs all out in 35.1 overs.

In reply Hall Park’s 45-run opening partnership was broken by Ewan Johnston (1-31) with an edge taken by keeper Max Hibbert. Johnny Atherton (1-19) picked up a single wicket, but the pick of the bowlers was skipper Callum Lowe, who finished with 3 wickets for 33 runs from 7 overs, including a fantastic catch by Will Smith running back at point . Will earned himself 2 fielding points. With the result almost beyond doubt Phil Barrett was hit on the head by the ball while fielding at silly mid-off, but thankfully was able to continue. It took Hall Park less than 26 overs to overhaul the uncompetitive  Steeton target. Hall Park scored 102 runs for the loss of 5 wickets in 25.5 overs. Steeton (3 points) finish with a comprehensive defeat by Hall Park (19 points) by 5 wickets. Steeton finish the season in 4th place in the 5th division.

Callum Lowe is my Man-of-the-Match for Steeton

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1st XI2nd XI

Third XI 2019

21 April 2019 - 3rd XI v Calverley St Wilfrids (H) - Won by Conceded

Steeton 20pts

Calverley 0pts

Unable to raise a side Calverley conceded this fixture and Steeton collect full points.


5 May 2019 - 3rd XI v Green Lane (A) - Won by 87 runs (20-7)

Steeton 205 a/o in 39.5 overs

Green Lane 118 a/o in 35.3 overs

Steeton travelled to Green Lane with a mixed team of youngsters and oldsters. Skipper James Yeadon lost the toss and was asked to bat first. Opener Will Smith (16) was the first man out following an opening partnership of 20 runs. Will scored his 16 runs from just 10 deliveries and hit 4 boundaries. His opening partner was Elliott Wilson (37) who went on to share an even better 51 runs partnership with Johnny Atherton, who scored a solid 27 runs from 22 deliveries with 1 six & 3 fours. After a great start a shuttering of quick wickets meant that when Elliott Wilson was out Steeton were wobbling at 88 runs with 6 wickets down. Max Hibbert came in to join El Presidente (Phil Barrett) and together they forged an impressive 102-run 7th wicket partnership (10 runs short of a new Club record). Phil completed a fine half-century (the only person to score over 50 runs for Steeton this weekend) before departing with 61 runs scored from 56 deliveries with 7 boundaries. Max Hibbert deserved a half-century, but unfortunately had to settle for a great 46 runs from 66 deliveries with 3 boundaries. Green Lane’s success coincided with the bowling of Adam (Reggie) Perring, who was only used for 3.5 overs, but took 6 wickets for 6 runs. Steeton finished with a commanding 205 runs all out in 39.5 overs.

In reply Steeton’s Harry Rowe ripped out the top 3 Green batsmen and finished with 6 overs for 23 runs as he collected 3 wickets with catches taken by Elliott Wilson & keeper Max Hibbert. A fiery burst from Jack Luxton (1-11) earned him a single wicket. Johnny Atherton bowled 5 tight overs that only conceded 7 runs as he collected 2 wickets with a second good catch by keeper Max Hibbert. A good spell by Wilf Robert (1-18) was rewarded with single wicket and making his debut Archie Smith took 2 wickets for 15 runs from 4 overs with catches taken by Johnny Atherton and a catch in the slips by Phil Barrett. Johnny Atherton was awarded 2 fielding points. Yesterday for the 2nd XI Will Smith had collected a 5-wicket haul…today bowling spin because of the fading light Will needed just 3 deliveries to take the final wicket without conceding a single run. No bowler used by Steeton was older than 15 years old as Green Lane were bowled all out for 118 runs in 35.3 overs. Steeton (20 points) beat Green Lane (7 points) by 87 runs.

My Man-of-the-Match is of course El Presidente!

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19 May 2019 - 3rd XI v Pool (A) in Chappell Cup - Lost by 74 runs

Pool 196 a/o in 37 overs

Steeton 122 a/o in 35.2 overs

Pool won the toss and decided to bat first. Steeton’s openers bowled well and deserved more success, but both had to settle for a single wicket each: Jack Luxton (1-17) with a catch taken at mid-wicket by Rhys Troake on debut; and Johnny Atherton (1-29) with a nice catch pouched by Jack Luxton. Spinner Finlay Brown removed Pool’s top-scorer and finished with 2 wickets for 25 runs. Archie Smith was rewarded with 3 wickets for 56 runs from his 7.2 overs with a nice catch taken by Wilf Roberts and 2 by keeper Max Hibbert – Max’s 2nd catch involved him running and yelling for a high catch and nearly barging into skipper Mark Chapman at mid-wicket. The innings was swiftly closed by the experienced James Yeadon, who took 3 wickets for 28 runs from 7 overs with a catch taken by skipper Mark Chapman & a stumping by Max Hibbert.

In reply Steeton are indebted to Jack Luxton, who prevented an embarrassment. While wickets tumbled all around him, Jack scored an super 74 runs from 86 deliveries with 3 sixes & 6 fours. No-one else managed double figures, but worthy of mention was Archie Smith (9) and on debut Luke Spragg (7*). Despite Jack Luxton’s efforts, Steeton could only muster 122 runs all out in 35.2 overs. Steeton lost by 74 runs and along with the 1sts & the 2nds they crash out of the cup in the first round.

Jack Luxton is my Man-of-the-Match for Steeton

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26 May 2019 - 3rd XI v Guiseley (H) - Abandoned (3-3)

Steeton 3pt

Guiseley 3pt

This fixture has become a victim of the wet weather. Pitch unfit and more rain forecast, so called off in the morning. Both sides collect 3 points.


9 June 2019 - 3rd XI v Saltaire (H) - Lost by 5 runs (8-18)

Saltaire 235-6 in 40 overs

Steeton 230-6 in 40 overs

Despite both Saturday matches being rained off, it is a sad state of affairs that Steeton 3rd XI could only muster 10 players prepared to play on the Sunday. Saltaire won the toss and decided to bat first on an excellent batting track at Summerhill Lane. With the score on 43 runs, Harry Rowe had Steeton’s first success with a catch taken by James Yeadon. Harry finished with 2 wickets for 39 runs from 8 overs with another catch – this one taken by Johnny Atherton, despite the forlorn effort by keeper Max Hibbert to try to claim it! Also taking 2 wickets was spin bowler Finlay Brown (2-44) with 2 skied catches safely pouched by Elliott Wilson, who was awarded a fielding point. James Yeadon (1-34) took a single wicket and making his 3rd XI debut to help out Gary Boulton (1-39) took a single wicket courtesy of a stumping by keeper Max Hibbert. Coming in to bat at No6 for Saltaire Haroon Mahmood scored a century…his 100* coming from just 71 deliveries. Saltaire closed with an impressive 235 runs for the loss of 6 wickets in their 40 overs…a total which would have been reduced if Steeton had their full complement of fielders.

Steeton’s reply began sprightly with a fine opening partnership of 58 runs: Max Hibbert scoring a fine 23 runs from 24  deliveries with 5 boundaries, while Elliott Wilson went on to complete an excellent half-century…his 58 runs coming from just 51 deliveries with 1 six & 10 fours. Steeton’s excellent scoring continued with Elliott sharing a 37-run 2nd wicket partnership with Finlay Brown, who contributed 29 runs from 64 deliveries with 3 boundaries. Finlay went on to share a 48-run 4th wicket stand with Johnny Atherton, who smashed a quick-fire 35 runs from only 23 balls faced with 2 sixes & 4 fours. With the required rate rising, Steeton last realistic hope was a partnership between pentagenarians Gary Boulton & Phil Barrett…both scored 27 runs. Gary scored his 27 runs from 38 deliveries with 1 six & 2 fours before getting out to probably the slowest delivery he has ever faced in his long career, whereas Phil scored his unbeaten 27* runs from 19 deliveries with 3 boundaries. In this high-scoring encounter the 10 men of Steeton 3rd XI narrowly lost by 5 runs, having scored 230 runs for the loss of 6 wickets in their 40 overs. Steeton (8 points) lost to Saltaire (18 points) by 5 runs.

Elliott Wilson is my Man-of-the-Match for Steeton

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30 June 2019 - 3rd XI v Otley (A) - Lost by 6 wickets (6-20)

Steeton 157 a/o in 37.5 overs

Otley 159-4 in 27.5 overs

Some 3rd XI teams use the fixtures as a development side – to bring on juniors and get them accustomed to playing a longer game against adults…hoping to bring them through to become successful players of the 2nd XI and hopefully the 1st XI. Other clubs fill their 3rd XI side with as strong a players as they can manage and play to win at any cost. Steeton falls into the former category, whereas Otley today put out a side bereft of juniors and played with a ‘must-win’ mentality that sadly did not preclude the (albeit mild) ‘sledging’ of 15 year olds. Steeton won the toss and chose to bat first at Cross Green. Opener Elliott Wilson fell without worrying the scorers to a sharp catch in the covers and his opening partner Will Smith (10) was caught & bowled with the score on just 20 runs. Jack Luxton (13) was looking comfortable until missing a waist-high full toss and was clean bowled. Jack shared a 23-run 3rd wicket stand with Max Hibbert who contributed a fine 22 runs from 21 deliveries with 4 boundaries before being clean bowled. Max also shared a 18-run 4th wicket partnership with Johnny Atherton, who contributed a good 20 runs from 25 deliveries with 4 boundaries before being adjudged LBW. When skipper Mark Chapman (10) was well caught and Harry Rowe followed soon after Steeton had slumped to 91 runs with 7 wickets down…5 of who had managed to make double figures without continuing to make a sizeable contribution. This was followed by an excellent 54-run 8th wicket partnership between veteran Chris Luxton (37) & youngster Archie Smith (16*). Chris top-scored with 37 runs scored from 43 deliveries with 7 boundaries; while Archie was unbeaten with 16* runs scored from 33 deliveries with 3 boundaries. Steeton were eventually all out for a respectable 157 runs scored from 37.5 overs.

Otley’s reply was curtailed to 13 runs with both opening batters back in the tent, by young pace bowler Jack Luxton who finished with 2 wickets for 33 runs from 7 overs including a sharp slip catch safely pouched by Phil Barrett. At No3 Otley had ex Bradford league batsman Kevin Gilks (98*), who began to take control the batting…taking singles of the last ball of the over and also refusing singles to protect the No5 & No6 batsmen. Johnny Atherton (1-25) taking a good return catch from his own bowling and Harry Rowe (1-24) were the only other successful bowlers. Excellent ground fielding by Archie Smith was rewarded by 2 fielding points. Thanks largely to Kevin Gilks, Otley finished with 159 runs for 4 wickets in 27.5 overs. Steeton (6 points) lost to Otley (20 points) by 6 wickets.

Jack Luxton is my Man-of-the-Match for Steeton

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7 July 2019 - 3rd XI v Kirkstall Educational (A) - Won by 77 runs (19-8)

Steeton 275-7 in 40 overs

Kirkstall 198-8 in 40 overs

Steeton won the toss and elected to bat first on what Kirkstall refer to as the ‘Field of Dreams’. Following their youth policy skipper Mark Chapman decided that the juniors should all bat before any of the senior players. Steeton scored quickly, but lost wickets in ‘clumps’…the first mini-collapse occurring on 16 runs when they lost 2 wickets in consecutive deliveries. Max Hibbert went in to bat to face the hat-trick delivery and join Elliott Wilson. Not only did Max survive the hat-trick ball, he and Elliott compiled a 103-run 3rd wicket partnership. Elliott was caught out having scored a fine 63 runs from just 53 deliveries with 11 boundaries. Steeton lost another 2 wickets with the total on 134 runs and skipper Mark Chapman came in to join the set Max Hibbert. Together Max & Mark amassed a solid 62-run 6th wicket partnership before Mark was bowled for 33 runs scored from 36 deliveries with 6 boundaries. Max had registered his first senior half-century, and he was joined by Jake Hill. Following a shoulder injury Jake has played very few cricket matches, but today was a day when his cavalier approach to batting was very effective. Jake scored 42 runs from 29 deliveries with 2 sixes and 6 fours and added a further 64 runs for the 7th wicket. During this partnership Max converted his maiden half-century into a maiden century…the future looks bright for this young talent. After their 40 overs Steeeton had scored a massive 275 runs for the loss of 7 wickets. Max finished with a magnificent unbeaten 111* runs having faced 110 balls and hit 17 boundaries…well played Max!

In reply Jack Luxton (1-18) broke the Kirkstall opening partnership with just 1 run on the board, with a skied catch taken by skipper Mark Chapman at gully. The other opener fell to the left-arm spin of Mick ‘Beanie’ Wilson (1-16)…Kirkstall were 2 wickets down with the total on 26 runs. Following his batting success Jake Hill was keen to bowl and he was rewarded with 2 wickets for 24 runs, including a sharp catch well-caught in the slips by the Hon. Treasurer, Nick ‘Troggie’ Brown. Kirkstall were 54 runs with 4 wickets down, but a minor recovery was halted by Elliott Wilson (1-23), with a low catch taken by keeper Max Hibbert. Off-spinner Finlay Brown bowled a mixture of ultra-slow that came down with snow on and fast darting Yorkers and he was rewarded with 2 wickets for 35 runs with a 2nd catch by keeper Max Hibbert. Kirkstall had long since given up hope of reaching the Steeton target, and instead were aiming to reach 175 runs which would give them full batting points. Max Hibbert had scored 111* runs and already taken 2 good catches, but was not finished yet as he had a stumping to give Archie Smith (1-40) a single wicket. Archie Smith was awarded a fielding point. After their 40 overs Kirkstall Educational had scored 198 runs for the loss of 8 wickets. As well as the success of the Steeton juniors, 2 of the Kirkstall juniors had recorded half-centuries…the furure of cricket was the winner! Steeton (19 points) beat Kirkstall Educational (8 points) by 77 runs.

Max Hibbert was my Man-of-the-Match

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28 July 2019 - 3rd XI v Menston (H) - Abandoned (3-3)

Steeton 3pts

Menston 3pts

Poor weather has meant this fixture was cancelled. Soaking outfield, with little prospect of it drying, combined with a lousy forecast means no cricket at all for Steeton this weekend.


11 August 2019 - 3rd XI v St Chads (A) - Abandoned (3-3)

Steeton 3pts

St Chads 3pts

St Chad’s pitch had standing water on for the morning inspection, and with further light rain still falling this fixture was cancelled. Rain has washed out any cricket for Steeton and most of the rest of the league this weekend. Both sides collect 3pts.


18 August 2019 - 3rd XI v Burley-in-Wharfedale (H) - Abandoned (10-8)

Steeton 187-7 in 40 overs

Burley-in-Wharfedale 118-4 in 27 overs

Steeton lost the toss and Burley asked Steeton to bat first in this away fixture which is an fact being played at Summerhill Lane. Steeton lost both openers with the total on just 18 runs and further collapased to 46 runs with 4 wickets back in the tent and only Max Hibbert (14) managing double figures. Steeton’s resistance was built around a fantastic innings by Jack Luxton, who notched a 84 runs from 94 deliveries with 1 six & 9 fours before falling to a on-handed catch taken on the boundary. Jack shared a 48-run 5th wicket partnership with skipper Mark Chapman, who contributed 15 runs and a 59-run 7th wicket partnership with Harry Rowe, who contributed an unbeaten 29* runs from 36 deliveries with 1 six & 2 fours. Even when Jack departed the momentum continued with Harry Rowe adding an unbroken 29-run 8th wicket stand with Wilf Roberts, who contributed 13 runs from 15 deliveries with 2 boundaries. Steeton closed with an solid 187 runs for the loss of 7 wickets in thier 40 overs.

In reply Burley had quickly reached 31 runs before losing their first wicket to the bowling of Jack Luxton (1-22). Burley had progressed rapidly to 108 runs before Archie Smith claimed 2 wickets for 25 runs from his 5 overs, with a good catch taken running in by Finlay Brown. Wilf Roberts (1-16) had a catch safely pouched by James Yeadon before rain interrupted proceedings. Despite many attempts to get the match restarted eventually weather had the final say and any further attempts to complete the match were abandoned. Harry Rowe was awarded a fielding point. Burley had scored 118 runs for the loss of 4 wickets in 27 overs. Steeton (10 points) had a rain-affected draw with Burley-in-Wharfedale (8 points).

Jack Luxton is my Man-of-the-Match

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1 September 2019 - 3rd XI v Alwoodley (H) - Won by 122 runs (19-6)

Steeton 247-7 in 35 overs

Alwoodley 125-9 in 35 overs

With the distinct possiblilty of rain Steeton lost the toss and were asked to bat first at Summerhill Lane. After losing an early wicket Steeton had a solid 51-run 2nd wicket partnership between skipper Mark Chapman (15) and Jack Luxton, who continued his rich vein of form with an excellent half-century. Jack’s 50 runs came from 69 deliveries with 1 six & 6 fours. With the score on 52 runs with 3 wickets down Johnny Atherton came in to join Jack. Every so often in cricket there occurs a special innings, which you will remember in years to come and feel privileged to have witnessed…when Johnny nonchalantly lifted the first ball he received into the adjacent field it was the beginning of just such an innings. Johnny added 40 runs for the 4th wicket partnership with Jack, who was caught out just before the light rain became heavy rain and the sides were forced from the field. An early tea was called and when play resumed 10 overs had been lost from the match. Johnny continued where he had left off – flaying sixes to all sectors of the ground. He shared a 71-run 5th wicket partnership with Phil Barrett, who scored a brisk 25 runs from 17 deliveries with 5 boundaries, followed by a 45-run 7th wicket partnership with Archie Smith (10). To make the overs even Steeton declared after 35 overs, with Johnny Atherton unbeaten with his first senior century. Johnny had scored 137* runs not out from just 61 deliveries with an incredible 13 sixes and 9 fours. Johnny is only 15 years old, but he had scored a remarkable 83% (114 runs) in boundaries. Steeton closed with a mammoth 247 runs for the loss of 7 wickets in 35 overs. Alwoodley would have to score at over 7 runs per over to challenge the Steeton target.

Steeton’s opening bowling attack was arguably the youngest ever. With a combined age of just 27 years Archie Smith and Luke Spragg had Alwoodley reeling at 29 runs with 3 wickets down. Luke (1-29) had a single wicket and Archie had had 2 wickets caught in the slips…the first by his brother Will Smith, who was playing despite having an injured finger, and the other by El Presidente, Phil Barrett. Both Will & Phil were awarded fielding points. The reliable James Yeadon clean bowled 3 wickets of the middle order and finished with 3 wickets for 23 runs from 7 overs. With more light rain in the air Steeton were concentrating on getting through the overs quickly, and credit to the umpires who were prepared to stay out in conditions where some would have been retreating back to the pavilion. Jack Luxton (1-13) nipped out a further wicket and the return of Archie Smith brought a further 2 wickets: the first a lofted catch claimed by keeper Max Hibbert and the second a stumping off a wide by Max. Archie finished with a fine tally of 4 wickets for 26 runs from 7 overs…a performance which would have earned him Man-of-the-Match on many other occasions! For Alwoodley Harsh Nair (41*) had stood firm and after their 35 overs Alwoodley had scored 125 runs for the loss of 9 wickets. Steeton (19 points) beat Alwoodley (6 points) by 122 runs.

Johnny Atherton is my Man-of-the-Match

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8 September 2019 - 3rd XI v Beckwithshaw (A) - Lost by 6 wickets (4-19)

Steeton 115-9 in 40 overs

Beckwithshaw 119-4 in 37.1 overs

In the last game of the season Steeton lost at Beckwithshaw by 6 wickets. Steeton won the toss and chose to bat first at Pot Bank. Beckwithshaw opened with spin bowlers and then the change bowlers bowled even slower spin…they knew their wicket. Opener Elliott Wilson grafted out a solid 21 runs from 47 deliveries with 2 boundaries. At No3 Jack Luxton also had to work hard for his 23 runs which took 39 deliveries and included 2 boundaries. Jack shared a 26-run 3rd wicket partnership with Max Hibbert who contributed 16 runs from 61 balls. Harry Rowe scored 22 runs from 26 deliveries with 2 boundaries, but watched as wickets tumbled at the other end. Death by spin! The only other batsman to manage double figures was Phil Barrett (10*) as Steeton closed with an under-par 115 runs for the loss of 9 wickets in their 40 overs.

In reply Steeton got an early breakthrough as Johnny Atherton moved well at extra-cover to pouch a safe catch off the bowling of Archie Smith (1-15). Wicket were hard to come by as Steeton tried to extra life from the slow low track. It was when Steeton realised that taking the pace off the ball was the way to success at Beckwithshaw. Jack Luxton bowling gently from a two pace run-up helped him bowl 8 tight overs that conceded 27 runs as he collected 2 wickets with catches taken by Elliott Wilson and Will Smith. Elliott’s one-handed diving catch in the covers was unnecessarily theatrical, but earned him a fielding point. Harry Rowe was asked to “bowl like Luke Watson” and he too collected a single wicket with his 6 miserly overs only conceded 10 runs. Steeton were unable to shift Beckwithshaw skipper Richard Marlow (66*) and he saw them comfortably pass the Steeton target. Beckwithshaw scored 119 runs for the loss of 4 wickets in 37.1 overs. Steeton (4 points) lost to Beckwithshaw (19 points) by 6 wickets.

Jack Luxton is my Man-of-the-Match for Steeton

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