Steeton 234-4 in 40  overs

Calverley St Wilfrids 140 a/o in 36.2 overs

With much of the league being washed out with the rain Steeton played Calverley St Wilfrids at Summerhill Lane in the first game of the 2023 season. The start was delayed by rain, but was able to get started for a 40 overs per side match. Steeton skipper Steve Pearson won the toss and surprisingly chose to bat first. Steve’s decision was soon vindicated as Steeton passed the 100-run mark without losing a wicket. First to depart was Matthew Nutter, who chopped-on for 63 runs from 30 deliveries with 6 sixes & 2 fours. Steeton were 110 runs for 1 wicket in 21 overs. Matthew’s opening partner was Luke Chapman, making his Steeton debut, and he was caught out for 40 runs scored from 77 deliveries with 3 boundaries. A great start to his Steeton career for Luke! James Robinson added 22 runs before being well caught by the Calverley keeper. Steeton were 153 runs for 3 wickets in 32 overs. This brought together another 2 players both making their Steeton debut: Ben Hemsley & Adam Smith. Both players also made impressive starts to their Steeton careers, with Adam Smith smashing a quick-fire half-century…his unbeaten 51* runs coming from just 26 deliveries with 5 sixes & 2 fours. While Ben Hemsley scored 33 runs from 40 deliveries with 2 sixes before being bowled off the very last ball of the Steeton innings. Steeton had scored an impressive 234 runs for the loss of 4 wickets in their 40 overs.

In reply both Calverley openers were removed by Paul Quinlan, who finished with 2 wickets for 28 runs from 8 overs with 2 catches: a regulation catch by Cameron Knowles and slip-catch taken by Matthew Nutter. When Ben Hemsley fielded swiftly off his own bowling and threw in for keeper Adam Smith to remove the bails and run out the 3rd Calverley batsman they were teetering at 39 for 3. The Calverley slump continued as Ewan Johnston ripped out their middle-order. Ewan finished with the best figures of 3 wickets for 33 runs from 8 overs with a skied catch safely pouched by skipper Steve Pearson and a 2nd slip-catch for Matt Nutter. The introduction of the left-arm pace of Will Smith brought instant success with a skied catch to Ben Hemsley off the very first delivery. Will finished with impressive figures of 2 wickets for 6 runs from 3 overs, and was also awarded a fielding point. The final nail in the Calverley coffin was administered by Ben Hemsley returning for a 2nd spell. Ben was rewarded with 2 wickets for 34 runs from 10.2 overs, including a good slip catch taken by Max Harrison. Calverley had been bowled all out for 140 runs in 36.2 overs. Steeton (20 points) beat Calverley St Wilfrids (3 points) by 94 runs.

Ben Hemsley is my Man-of-the-Match

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Steeton 3pts

Follifoot 3pts

Steeton travelled to Follifoot’s Rudding Park where they were shocked to find a quagmire. It was clear that no cricket would be possible and the match was promptly called off. This was the only 1st XI match to not be played and one of only 2 cancelled fixtures in the entire league. Both sides were awarded 3 points each.

Steeton 139 a/o in 36 overs

Olicanian 143-4 in 29.5 overs

Steeton entertained Olicanian at Summerhill Lane as they hoped to further their ambition for promotion. Skipper Steve Pearson won the toss an chose to bat first. Steeton had a poor start as the lost their first 3 wickets in the first 7 overs with only 29 runs on the board and only Ryan Ridehalgh (12) managing double figures. By the 13th over Steeton had lost further 2 wickets and so were 5 wickets down with 52 runs with Ben Hemsley (16) also managing double figures. Skipper Steve Pearson (11) chipped in but Steeton were teetering at 71 runs with 7 wickets back in the tent in the 17th over. Making his 1st XI debut & coming in at No9 George Bell top-scored with a battling 37 runs scored from 40 deliveries with 1 six & 4 fours. George shared a 41-run 9th wicket partnership with Adam Hardwick (11). Steeton were all out for a below par 139 runs in 36 overs and would now require an exceptional bowling display to defend such a low total.

In reply Steeton had a great start with Ben Hemsley taking a wicket in the very first over. Ben finished with 2 wickets both clean-bowled for 48 runs from 10 overs. Skipper Steve Pearson (1-24) removed the other opener with a catch taken by keeper Adam Smith, and the only other wicket that Steeton managed was an LBW to off-spinner Adam Hardwick (1-36). Olicanian scored 143 runs for the loss of 4 wickets in 29.5 overs. Steeton (3 points) lost to Olicanian (19 points) by 6 wickets.

George Bell is my Steeton Man-of-the-Match

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Ilkley 166 a/o in 46.5 overs

Steeton 141 a/o in 49 overs

Steeton skipper Steve Pearson won the toss and asked Ilkley to bat first. Both of Steeton’s opening bowlers collect 4-wickets hauls. With 3 batsmen clean-bowled and 1 LBW, Ben Hemsley took 4 wickets for 37 runs from his 13 overs. Skipper Steve Pearson took 4 wickets for 33 runs from 13.5 overs with 2 batsmen clean-bowled as well as a sharp caught & bowled and a nice catch at long-off by Paul Quinlan. The other 2 Ilkley wickets fell to Ewan Johnston, whose 10 overs conceded 38 runs as he had 1 batsman out LBW and another well caught at square-leg by Adam Hardwick. Ben Hemsley was awarded a fielding point as Ilkley scored 166 runs all out in 46.5 overs. Steeton were confident at the tea break.

In reply Steeton lost 3 of their top 4 batsmen to LBW decisions, including Matt Nutter (12) & James Robinson (15). The other LBW victim was Steeton’s top-scorer Ben Hemsley, who scored 30 runs from 79 deliveries with 3 boundaries. After the top 4 batters only 2 Steeton batsmen reached double figures: Adam Smith chipped in with 15 runs and Adam Hardwick was left high-and-dry with 14* runs not out having added 27 runs for the final wicket with Ewan Johnston (8). Steeton were all out for 141 runs in 49 overs…a tantalising 25 runs shy of the Ilkley target, Steeton (6 points) lost to Ilkley (17 points) by 25 runs.

Ben Hemsley is my Steeton Man-of-the-Match

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Olicanian 171 a/o in 41.2 overs

Steeton

Skipper Steve Pearson lost the toss at Summerhill Lane and Olicanian chose to bat first. Olicanian had beaten Steeton by 6 wicket last weekend and have strong top order batsmen…they were approaching a century opening partnership at 96 runs before they lost their first wicket. The floodgates were open and Steeton took 4 wickets before Olicanian had added another 20 runs. The first 3 wickets all fell to a fine bowling spell by Paul Quinlan, who finished with excellent figures of 4 wickets for 36 runs from 9 overs, with a great diving catch by Ewan Johnston, a catch by keeper Cameron Knowles and a great reaction return catch off his own bowling. Ewan was awarded a club fielding point. Off-spinner Adam Hardwick bowled 9 tight overs for 30 runs and took the other wicket  with a thin edge to keeper Cameron Knowles. Will Smith (1-27) chipped in with a single wicket caught by skipper Steve Pearson, but it was Steve himself who effectively cleaned-up the tail and finished with 4 wickets for just 20 runs from 7.2 overs, with catches by Luke Chapman and a 3rd for keeper Cameron Knowles. Olicanian had lost their final 9 wickets while adding just 75 runs and were all out for 171 runs in 41.2 overs.

In reply Steeton’s batting was masterful as the maverick Matt Nutter crashed the ball to all corners of the ground. Matt’s flashing willow scored him 59 runs from just 30 deliveries with 2 sixes and 9 fours before he was caught out with a fine edge through to the keeper. Steeton had put on 88 runs for the 1st wicket partnership in the 12th over. Matt’s opening partner was Luke Chapman, who continued the good scoring…albeit at a more sedate pace. Luke scored a faultless unbeaten 55* runs from 97 deliveries with 7 boundaries. Luke also shared an unbroken 87-run 2nd wicket stand with James Robinson, who contributed 33* runs not out from 56 deliveries with 4 boundaries. Steeton had scored 175 runs for the loss of just 1 wicket in 30.1 overs. Cup Holders Steeton romped through to the 2nd round of the Waddilove cup with a convincing 9-wicket victory against Olicanian.

Paul Quinlan is my Man-of-the-Match

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Steeton 239-2 in 20 overs

Sutton 111-5 in 20 overs

Steeton beat Sutton convincingly. Steve Pearson scored 121*

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Steeton 175 a/o in 47.5 overs

Beckwithshaw 165 a/o in 47.5 overs

Steeton had a really topsy-turvy match at home to Beckwithshaw. Steeton were off to a good start with opener Matt Nutter leading the way with a fabulous 101 runs scored from just 84 hits, which included 5 sixes & 11 fours. Aided by a solid 32 runs by Louis Horsfield playing his first match of the season. Louis’s 32 runs came from 65 deliveries with 4 boundaries. Sadly no other batsman was able to reach double figures and so Steeton were pegged back by losing wickets and closed with a disappointing 175 runs all out in 47.5 overs.

In reply Steeton made good early inroads into the Beckwithshaw batting as they took the first 6 wickets without a single batsman managing more than 5 runs – with 4 wickets by batting hero Matt Nutter and 2 wickets for Paul Quinlan. Matt finished with the best figures of 4 wickets for 29 runs from his 13 overs, with a catch safely taken by Will Smith. Will Smith was awarded a fielding point. A late order fight back looked to have swung the match for Beckwithshaw, but a great stumping by keeper Adam Smith off the bowling of Ewan Johnston (1-18) again gave Steeton the edge. This was pivotal as Ewan had just removed Beckwithshaw’s leading scorer Buller (82). Adam Hardwick (1-43) bowled recent ex-Steeton player Wademan and Paul Quinlan came back for a 2nd spell and removed another ex-Steeton player Hudson with a catch at long-on by Matt Nutter. Paul Quinlan finished with excellent figures of 3 wickets for 59 runs from his 15 overs, with catches by skipper James Robinson and Matt Nutter. As Beckwithshaw’s last pair edged toward victory they attempted to take 2 runs to the skipper James Robinson at long off, but James threw to the keeper Adam Smith, who ran out the last batsman to seal an exciting victory. Beckwithshaw were all out for 165 runs in 47.5 overs. In an exciting match Steeton (18 points) narrowly beat Beckwithshaw (7 points) by 10 runs.

Matt Nutter is my Man-of the-Match

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Steeton 297-7 in 50 overs

Kirkstall Educational 201-9 in 50 overs

On a hot sunny day at Summerhill Lane winning the toss and batting was important to the outcome of this fixture. Kirkstall’s skipper called wrong and Steeton’s skipper Steve Pearson had no hesitation in choosing to bat first. Steeton’s opening batsmen had progressed smoothly to 58 runs before Matthew Nutter uncharacteristically spooned-up a catch to mid-wicket. Matt had scored 35 runs from 36 deliveries with 1 six & 6 fours. A further 30 runs were added for the 2nd wicket before James Robinson (10) was adjudged LBW. This brought Ben Hemsley to join opener Luke Chapman and together they amassed a colossal 3rd wicket partnership of 170 runs. As both batsmen were in their 90s a slight indecision in the running between the wicket brought about the unfortunate run-out of Ben Hemsley. Ben had scored a fluent 90 runs from 88 deliveries with 3 sixes & 10 fours. Luke Chapman did complete a wonderful century before falling to a sharp c&b. Luke had scored 106 runs from 136 deliveries with 15 boundaries. As Steeton chased quick late runs to post a mammoth target they did lose a few cheap wickets, however a wonderful late cameo innings by Cameron Knowles saw him score 20* runs not out from just 11 deliveries with 3 boundaries. Kirkstall had toiled hard in the heat as Steeton closed with 297 runs for the loss of 7 wickets in their 50 overs.

In reply Kirkstall began well but the introduction of Matt Nutter (1-10) brought success as he first had a thin edge taken by keeper Adam Smith, before combining well with Ben Hemsley to run out the batter who had just come in. Both Matt Nutter & Ben Hemsley earned fielding points. When Matt Nutter took an excellent low catch in the slips off the bowling of Paul Quinlan Kirkstall were teetering at 48-3. A good stand was broken by left-armer Will Smith (1-15) with a 2nd slip catch by Matt Nutter. When skipper Steve Pearson removed Kirkstall’s top-scorer Bardouille-Lewis (61) the required run-rate had crept up to over 10 runs per over. Steve finished with 2 wickets for 41 runs from 12 overs with an excellent low catch from an inside edge by keeper Adam Smith and a more regulation catch by Will Smith. Paul Quinlan also finished with a brace of wickets – his 2 wickets coming at a cost of just 20 runs from 8 overs, as he had catches taken by Matt Nutter and Ben Hemsley. Ewan Johnston (1-30) had a catch taken by centurian Luke Chapman and Cameron Knowles (1-14) had a catch taken by skipper Steve Pearson. While Kirkstall fell well short of the Steeton target, on the good Summerhill Lane batting surface Steeton were unable to dislodge all the Kirkstall batsmen. After their 50 overs Kirkstall finished with 201 runs for the loss of 9 wickets. In a match dominated by the home team, Steeton (19 points) beat Kirkstall Educational (7 points) by 96 runs.

Luke Chapman is my Man-of the-Match

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Steeton

Green Lane

Steeton travelled to Green Lane’s Nunroyd Park ground and when skipper Steve Pearson lost the toss Green Lane opted to bat first.

Steeton (18 points) beat Green Lane (2 points) by 6 wickets

Ben Hemsley is my Man-of the-Match

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Steeton

Green Lane

Steeton beat Green Lane by 3 wickets. Matthew Nutter was awarded with a club fielding point.

Steve Pearson is my Man-of-the-Match

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Steeton 276-6 in 50 overs

Colton Institute 169 a/o in 42.1 overs

Steeton entertained Colton Institute on a sunny & hot day at Summerhill Lane and so when skipper Steve Pearson won the toss he had no hesitation in choosing to bat first. Steeton early batting struggled to cope against the new ball attack and Steeton were 53 runs with 4 wickets down when Craig Walton departed caught behind for 21 runs scored from 34 deliveries with 3 boundaries. Steeton began to rebuild their innings when Adam Smith was joined  by skipper Steve Pearson. Together Adam & Steve added 41 runs for the 5th wicket before Adam was caught out in cow corner for a fluent 41-run innings from 38 balls with 1 six & 6 fours. Steeton were 101 runs for 6 wickets in the 23rd over but the best was yet to come as Steve was joined by Paul Quinlan. The innings was turned on its head as this partnership amassed a superb new club record unbroken 7th wicket partnership of 175 runs in the next 27 overs. Paul Quinlan contributed a fantastic unbeaten 67* runs from 101 deliveries with 2 sixes & 8 fours; but captain marvel Steve completed a marvellous century in the final over. Steve finished with a superb unbeaten 102 runs scored from just 88 deliveries with 1 six & 14 fours. Thanks to this partnership Steeton closed with a huge 276 runs for the loss of 6 wickets in their 50 overs.

In reply Colton showed a positive intent as they smashed a six off the very first ball, but Steeton took regular wickets and none of Colton’s batsmen managed more than 26 runs. Steeton’s opening bowlers were the tired men from the record partnership Steve Pearson & Paul Quinlan, but both of them added 4 wickets each to their batting feats. Steve finished with 4 wickets for 23 runs from his 12 overs with comfortable catches taken by Ewan Johnston and keeper Adam Smith as well as an amazing diving one-handed catch in the slips by Adam Hardwick. Paul Quinlan took 4 wickets for 41 runs from 8.1 overs with 2 skied catches: one taken by keeper Adam Smith and one a caught and bowled. The other 2 wickets both fell to Ewan Johnston (2-33) with a regulation catch taken by Bradley Akrigg and a 2nd amazing diving one-handed catch taken in the slips by Adam Hardwick. Adam Hardwick was quite rightly awarded 2 league fielding points. Catches Win Matches and Colton Institute were bowled all out for 169 runs in 42.1 overs. Steeton (20 points) beat Colton Institute (5 points) by 107 runs.

Steve Pearson is my Man-of the-Match, with an honorary mention for Paul Quinlan

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Cullingworth 109-5 in 20 overs

Steeton 111-1 in 12.5 overs

Skipper James Robinson lost the toss and Cullingworth chose to bat first. Cullingworth batters never really got in their stride and only managed a below par 109 runs in their 20 overs for the loss of 5 wickets. Will Smith took 2 wickets for 15 runs from his 3 overs with a c&b and a catch by Luke Watson. Ewan Johnston also took 2 wickets for 12 runs from 4 overs with a catch by Matthew Nutter and another by keeper Cameron Knowles. The other wicket was clean-bowled by Paul Quinlan (1-15).

In reply Steeton had a 68-run opening partnership in 7.2 overs before Steeton lost their only wicket: Adam Smith was bowled for exactly 50 runs from 26 deliveries with 2 sixes & 7 fours. The victory was completed by James Robinson, who scored 29* runs not out from 29 deliveries with 3 boundaries and Cameron Knowles who also scored 29* runs not out from 22 balls with 1 six & 3 fours. Steeton scored 111 runs for the loss of 1 wicket in 12.5 overs. Steeton won by 9 wickets and progress smoothly into the next stage of the Keighley T20 cup

Adam Smith is my Man-of-the-Match

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Steeton 228-8 in 45 overs

Bolton Villas 163 a/o in 40 overs

Steeton travelled to Bolton Villas and when skipper Steve Pearson won the toss he chose to bat first…a decision a may have regretted when Steeton had slipped to 27 runs with 2 wickets already lost. Opener Luke Chapman and Ben Hemsley steadied the innings as together they added a super 89 runs for the 3rd wicket partnership. Luke was caught out for 26 careful runs scored from 67 deliveries with 3 boundaries, but Ben had already completed his half-century and was still going strong. Ben went on to share a 36-run 4th wicket partnership with skipper Steve Pearson, who contributed 16 runs. Steeton lost middle-order wickets and slumped to 178 runs with 7 wickets down, but Ben Hemsley was into his 90s, Ben shared a 47-run 8th wicket partnership with Will Smith, who contributed 10 runs, during which Ben completed a wonderful century. Early rain had reduced this fixture to 45 overs per side…and after their 45 overs Steeton had scored 228 runs for the loss of 8 wickets. This total was largely due to Ben Hemsley, who scored a spectacular unbeaten 130* runs not out from just 126 deliveries with 4 sixes & 14 fours.

In reply Bolton Villas then struggled to cope with the bowling of Ben Hemsley, who opened the bowling and clean-bowled 3 batsman for 40 runs from his 13 overs. The top middle-order were removed by Ewan Johnston who took 2 wickets for 49 runs from 9 overs with a catch taken by Will Smith. Bolton Villas also lost 3 wickets to run-outs attributed to Adam Smith, Ewan Johnston & Steve Pearson. Ewan Johnston was awarded a fielding point. Skipper Steve Pearson came back to polish off the last couple of wickets and finished with 2 wickets for 36 runs from 11 overs. Bolton Villas had been bowled all out for 163 runs in 40 overs. Steeton (20 points) beat Bolton Villas (6 points) by 65 runs.

Ben Hemsley is my Man-of the-Match

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Bardsey 228 a/o in 49.3 overs

Steeton 230-3 in 40.1 overs

Steeton entertained Bardsey on a hot sunny day at Summerhill Lane with a lightning fast outfield. When skipper Steve Pearson lost the toss Bardsey had little hesitation in batting first. While Bardsey started by scoring at a good rate on a batters track, Steeton reined them in by taking wickets regularly. The opening stand was broken on 53 runs by a fantastic stumping by Adam Smith of the bowling of skipper Steve Pearson. Steve finished with 3 wickets for 45 runs frim 12.3 overs, with the stumping as well as a catch by Ben Hemsley. Paul Quinlan (1-35) clean-bowled Bardsey’s top scorer Wainman (49). However the chief destroyer was Ben Hemsley, who finished with a great 5-wicket haul. Ben took 5 wickets for 73 runs from his 15 overs, with catches taken by Australian Jack Ramage at point, Luke Chapman & Ewan Johnston in cow corner. Ewan Johnston & Jack Ramage were awarded fielding points. Bardsey closed with a good total of 228 runs all out in 49.3 overs.

In reply Steeton began with a 117 runs opening partnership. Opener Matt Nutter deserved a half-century, but was caught at slip playing a reverse-sweep for 48 runs scored from just 47 deliveries with 2 sixes & 8 fours. Matt’s opening partner was Ben Hemsley fresh from his bowling exploits. Ben did complete a thrilling half-century, before he was caught out for 68 runs scored from just 58 deliveries with 2 sixes & 12 fours. Ben’s match performance of 68 runs and 5 wickets for 73 runs earns him a spot in the Steeton all-rounders’ records. With his first bat of the season Australian Jack Ramage chipped in with 11 runs, but the Steeton scoring continued unabated. Luke Chapman & James Robinson added an unbroken match-winning 4th wicket partnership of 72 runs. Luke finished with an unbeaten 37* runs scored from 73 deliveries with 4 boundaries; and James Robinson won the match with a boundary that brought up his half-century. James finished with an unbeaten 50* runs scored from 53 deliveries with 9 boundaries. Steeton had scored 230 runs for the loss of just 3 wickets in only 40.1 overs, to claim victory with almost 10 overs and 7 wickets to spare. Steeton (20 points) beat Bardsey (6 points) by 7 wickets.

Ben Hemsley is my Man-of the-Match

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Steeton 160 a/o in 41.5 overs

Saltaire

Skipper Steve Pearson lost the toss and Steeton were asked to bat first on an overcast day with rain forecast. Steeton began their innings steadily with a 44-run opening partnership before Australian Jack Ramage was the 1st man out clean bowled for 30 runs scored from 36 deliveries with 1 six & 4 fours. Jack’s opening partner was Luke Chapman, who contributed 14 runs. A good start was squandered as Steeton slipped to 54 runs with 3 wickets back in the tent. Skipper Steve Pearson played a great “captain’s innings” but wickets tumbled at the other end. Steve scored a fabulous 68 runs from 81 deliveries with 1 six & 8 fours, but when he was caught out Steeton were 146 runs for 9 wickets. Late runs were added by Adam Hardwick (15) which meant Steeton closed with 160 runs all out in 41.5 overs.

Heavy rain towards the end of the Steeton innings continued throughout the lunch break. Despite the covers being on puddles were growing on the outfield. Saltaire were in a commanding position, but the rain did not relent in time and the umpires deemed it unfit to even perform a bowl-out. So this fixture would have to be decided on the toss of a coin. Steeton had lost the toss at the start of the match, but the Saltaire skipper now called wrong and Steeton were through to the semi-final of the Waddilove cup. Steeton won on the toss of a coin! Ironically the weather picked up and as Steeton celebrated they were treated to a warm & sunny evening.

Stephen Pearson is my Man-of-the-Match

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Steeton 229 a/o in 49.1 overs

Adel 216-9 in 50 overs

Steeton travelled to Adel’s Church Lane ground to play the top-of-the-league side. Steeton skipper Steve Pearson won the toss and chose to bat first. Steeton’s opening batsmen put on a solid 82 runs before Australian Jack Ramage departed for 39 runs scored from 41 deliveries with 7 boundaries. Jack’s opening partner was Matthew Nutter who went on to add a further 62 runs for the 2nd wicket with Luke Horsfield (17). Matthew top-scored for Steeton with 63 well earned runs scored from 74 deliveries with 4 sixes & 5 fours. Ben Hemsley chipped in with 11 runs but Steeton were teetering at 177 runs with 6 wickets down. The 7th wicket added 42 more runs as skipper Stephen Pearson was joined by Adam Smith. Steve scored 27 runs from 53 balls with 3 boundaries & Adam scored 23 runs from 23 balls with 5 fours. Steeton lost their last wicket in the final over as they posted 229 runs all out in 49.1 overs.

In reply Adel’s top-order scored well but having been favourites at 162 runs with 3 wickets down Adel then lost their next 6 batsman while adding only a further 40 runs. Chief destroyer was skipper Steve Pearson who took 4 wickets for 58 runs from his 14 overs, with a catch taken by James Robinson and a return catch off his own bowling. Opening bowler Ben Hemsley took 2 wickets for 32 runs from 11 overs and off-spinner Adam Hardwick also took 2 wickets for 34 runs from 8 overs, with a catch taken by Ben Hemsley. The other wicket fell to Ewan Johnston (1-45) courtesy of a catch by Adam Hardwick. In a nail-biting finish Adel were 216 runs for the loss of 9 wickets in their 50 overs.  Steeton (19 points) beat Adel (9 points) by 13 runs.

Matthew Nutter is my Man-of the-Match

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Calverley St Wilfrids 96-9 in 29 overs

Steeton 98-1 in 12.3 overs

Steeton travelled to Calverley’s Victoria Park ground with a wet day forecast and only a slim chance of getting a game in. When skipper Steve Pearson won the toss he chose to field first and the fixture was reduced to 29 overs per side. A great early blast saw Calverley reduced to 42 runs with 5 wickets down. Chief destroyer was Ben Hemsley, who took 4 wickets for 21 runs from 10 overs with all his 4 victims clean-bowled. Paul Quinlan was also in the wickets with 4 wickets for 35 runs from 8 overs with all 4 victims caught out: Australian Jack Ramage took 2 catches and a single catch each by James Robinson & Ben Hemsley. Ewan Johnston (1-14) took a return catch off his own bowling and was awarded 2 fielding points…Jack Ramage also collected a fielding point for his 2 catches. Calverley St Wilfrids had scored 96 runs for the loss of 9 wickets in 29 overs.

Steeton lost a further 2 overs and the revised target became 97 runs from 27 overs. Steeton set about chasing down the Calverley target with gusto. Australian opening batsman Jack Ramage was the only wicket to fall with the Steeton score on 67 runs. Jack had scored 46 runs from just 30 deliveries with 4 sixes & 4 fours. Jack’s opening partner was Matthew Nutter, who went on to have an unbroken match-winning 31-run 2nd wicket partnership with Adam Smith. As they walked off the pitch victorious Matthew Nutter had an unbeaten 25* runs not out from 29 deliveries with 1 six & 1 four; while Adam Smith had an unbeaten 21* not out from just 14 balls with 1 six & 3 fours. Steeton had scored 98 runs for the loss of 1 wicket on 12.3 overs. Steeton (19 points) had beat Calverley St Wilfrids (0 points) by 9 wickets.

Ben Hemsley & Paul Quinlan are my joint Men-of-the-Match

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Pool 119-9 in 45 overs

Steeton 39-1 in 12.5 overs

Cup holders Steeton entertained Pool in the semi-final of the Waddilove cup as this season’s bid to retain the trophy continues. Rain this weekend had effected many games and the forecast today was for thundery downpours in the late afternoon/early evening. Steeton skipper Steve Pearson lost the toss and Pool chose to bat first. Steeton’s bowling attack maintained an economical level and regularly took wickets. Pick of the bowlers was opener Ben Hemsley, who took 3 wickets for 23 runs from his 9 overs, with catches by James Robinson & Matthew Nutter. Not far behind Ben was Ewan Johnston, who also took 3 wickets for 30 runs from his 9 overs, with a special diving catch taken by Matt Nutter in the slips and a regulation catch taken by skipper Steve Pearson. Matthew Nutter earned a club fielding point. Skipper Steve Pearson (1-29) took a return catch off his own bowling and keeper Adam Smith took 2 catches: one off James Robinson (1-8) and one off Adam Hardwick (1-11). Pool had only managed 119 runs for the loss of 9 wickets in their 45 overs.

Steeton began their reply as the clouds were gathering and rain looked imminent. Steeton raced to 39 runs for the loss of 1 wicket in 12.5 overs before lightning, thunder and a heavy downpour forced everyone to run from the pitch. Matthew Nutter was the only batsman out having scored 24 runs from 22 deliveries with 4 boundaries. Luke Chapman was 12* runs not out. The pitch soon became unfit to complete the fixture and when the heavy rain relented a bowl-out was decided as the method of settling this match. Each side chose 5 bowlers each and every bowler had 2 attempts to hit a set of unguarded stumps. Of the 20 balls were aimed at the stumps only one actually connected: Steeton bowler Paul Quinlan. Steeton won through to the Waddilove cup final on a bowl-out (1-0)

Paul Quinlan is my Man-of-the-Match

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Follifoot 76-5 in 20.2 overs

Steeton 89-2 in 9.2 overs

Steeton entertained Follifoot at Summerhill Lane on a wet day with heavy rainfall forecast. Rain & DLS were going to play a major role in today’s match. The start of the match was delayed and when the sides were able to take to the field it was already reduced to a 43 overs per side game. Skipper James Robinson lost the toss and surprisingly Follifoot  opted to bat first. Steeton began by taking a wicket off the very first ball of the game and shortly after had Follifoot reeling at 9 runs with 2 wickets down. After 20.2 overs the rain returned and turned the outfield into a puddly wetland. Follifoot had scored 76 runs and lost 5 wickets. Ben Hemsley was Steeton’s best bowler with 4 wickets for 31 runs from his 10 overs, with a catch taken by Ewan Johnston. It was Ewan (1-16) who collected the other wicket to fall, courtesy of a catch taken by skipper James Robinson.

The rain persisted and tea was taken early. Steeton put in a great effort to get the field ready to continue this match despite being frequently thwarted by further rain. At the last possible time the field was deemed fit and the match could continue. Follifoot’s innings was closed and the new DLS adjusted target for Steeton was 84 runs in 20 overs. Steeton opened with Matthew Nutter & Adam Smith…both rapid scorers! With the score on 69 runs in just 7 overs Matthew Nutter was bowled for 26 runs from just 19 deliveries with 2 sixes & 2 fours. With the score on 82 runs in the 9th over and the game all-but won, Adam Smith was also clean bowled. Adam had scored 48 runs from 32 deliveries with 1 six & 6 fours. Ben Hemsley (7*) smashed a huge six to complete the unlikely victory. Steeton had scored  89 runs for the loss of 2 wickets in 9.2 overs. Steeton (16 points) beat Follifoot (1 point) by 8 wickets.

Ben Hemsley is my Man-of-the-Match (with a special mention to groundsman James Yeadon and all his co-opted ground staff!)

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Olicanian 121-6 in 23 overs

Steeton 127-2 in 18 overs

Steeton travelled to Olicanian with non-stop rain forecast, but a forecast that proved to be not entirely true. Rain did delay the start of this fixture which was reduced to a 23 overs per side match. Steeton skipper Steve Pearson won the toss and chose to field first. Steeton collected wickets regularly and Olicanian were never able to score at a rate needed for a 23 over match. Ben Hemsley collected 2 wickets for 23 runs from his 6 overs, with a catch taken by keeper Cameron Knowles. Paul Quinlan also took 2 wickets for 27 runs from is 6 overs. Skipper Steve Pearson (1-22) had a catch taken by Adam Hardwick and James Robinson (1-21) had a catch taken by Paul Quinlan. Ben Hemsley was awarded a fielding point as Olicanian closed with 121 runs for the loss of 6 wickets in their 23 overs.

In reply Steeton had reached 26 runs in 5 overs before losing opener Matt Nutter, who had scored 16 of the runs off 15 balls with 2 boundaries. Keeping up the rapid scoring rate Steeton had reached 55 runs in the 11th over, when  they lost their other opener James Robinson, who had score 20 runs off 32 balls with 1 boundary. This brought together big hitters Bradley Akrigg and Ben Hemsley. Together they smashed a further 72 runs in the next 7½ overs to bring Steeton another victory. When they left the field Bradley Akrigg had an unbeaten 39* runs scored from 33 deliveries with 2 six & 3 fours; while Ben Hemsley had an unbeaten 38* runs scored from 28 deliveries with 2 sixes & 2 fours. Ben Hemsley had just smashed a maximum six to secure the victory (and an extra batting point) as Steeton closed with 127 runs for the loss of 2 wicket in just 18 overs. Steeton (18 points) beat Olicanian (1 point) by 8 wickets. Steeton are currently in 2nd place in division 2…just 5 points adrift from leaders Adel.

Ben Hemsley is my Man-of-the-Match

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Ilkley 176 a/o in 44.2 overs

Steeton 139 a/o in 38.1 overs

Steeton entertained Ilkley at Summerhill Lane on a damp day. Steeton skipper Steve Pearson lost the toss and Ilkley chose to bat first. Before Ilkley had reached the 50-run mark, Steve Pearson had removed 3 batsmen including both openers. Steve finished with excellent figures of 4 wickets for 32 runs from his 15 overs, with a catch taken by keeper Adam Smith. The middle-order was removed by Paul Quinlan, who also finished with 4 wickets. Paul bowled 12.2 overs which cost 71 runs as he collected his 4 wickets, with a catch by overseas player Jack Ramage & a a further catch for keeper Adam Smith as well as fantastic stumping. Ben Hemsley (1-44) had a fabulous catch taken by Steve Pearson on the long-off boundary. Steve was awarded a fielding point. The other wicket was a rapid run-out by overseas Jack Ramage throwing to keeper Adam Smith to compete. Jack Ramage was also awarded a fielding point. Ilkley had been 123 runs with 9 wickets down, but their final wicket added a further 53 runs, as they closed with 176 runs all out in 44.2 overs.

In reply Steeton crashed to 14-3 and then 40 runs with 4 wickets down. Ben Hemsley shared a match-steadying 32-run 5th wicket partnership with Bradley Akrigg, before Bradley was bowled for 21 runs scored from 37 with 4 boundaries. A further shuttering of Steeton wickets meant Steeton were 75 runs with 7 wickets back in the pavilion. Ben Hemsley shared a 32-run 8th wicket partnership with Paul Quinlan, before Ben was bowled for 48 runs scored from 73 deliveries with 6 boundaries. Paul Quinlan added 26 runs with Luke Watson (7) but were all out shortly after. Paul Quinlan left the field undefeated with 35* runs scored from 43 deliveries with 2 sixes & 3 fours. Steeton were all out for 139 runs in 38.1 overs. Steeton (6 points) lost to Ilkley (18 points) by 37 runs.

Paul Quinlan is my Steeton Man-of-the-Match

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Beckwithshaw 152 a/o in 40.3 overs

Steeton 155-2 in 33.1 overs

With a very wet forecast, Steeton travelled to Beckwithshaw more in hope, rather than expectation, of getting in some play amongst the rain. Skipper James Robinson won the toss as decided to bowl first. Paul Quinlan was the right man for the track as he collected 5 of the top 6 wickets. Paul finished with fantastic figures of 5 wickets for 30 runs from his 15 overs, with catches taken by Aussie Jack Ramage, keeper Adam Smith, Luke Watson as well as 2 catches by skipper James Robinson. Beckwithshaw were reduced to 77 runs with 5 wickets down after 24 overs. The excellent bowling was continued by opening bowler Ben Hemsley, who took 4 wickets for 53 runs from 12.3 overs, with a third catch taken by skipper James Robinson. James was awarded a league fielding point. The other wicket to fall went to James McDonald (1-24) courtesy of a catch by Bradley Akrigg. Beckwithshaw were all out for 152 runs in 40.3 overs.

In reply Steeton began with an excellent 62-run partnership between Luke Chapman & Australian Jack Ramage. Luke scored 28 runs from 76 deliveries with 3 boundaries; while Jack contributed 47 runs from just 43 deliveries with 3 sixes & 5 fours. The excellent scoring continued when Ben Hemsley came in to join Craig Walton with the score on 87-2. Together Craig & Ben added an unbroken match-winning 68 runs for the 3rd wicket. As they left the field victorious Craig had scored an unbeaten 40* runs from 56 deliveries with 8 boundaries and Ben had scored an unbeaten 28* runs from just 27 deliveries with 1 six & 2 fours. Steeton had scored 155 runs for the loss of 2 wickets from 33.1 overs. Steeton (20 points) beat Beckwithshaw (3 points) by 8 wickets

Paul Quinlan is my Man-of-the-Match

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Rawdon 111 a/o in 41.1 overs

Steeton 115-4 in 34.2 overs

In a re-enactment of last year’s final Steeton are once again pitched against Rawdon, with this year’s venue being at Collingham. Once again 2nd division Steeton play 1st division Rawdon…could underdogs Steeton pull off another ‘giant-killing’ performance? Heavy rain for much of the preceding week meant the pitch was damp early, but with a dry day forecast with broken sunshine the wicket would presumably get drier through the day. When skipper Steve Pearson called correctly for the important coin toss he had no hesitation in inserting Rawdon. A fiery opening blast saw both Rawdon openers back in the pavilion with just 7 runs on the board…a wicket apiece for both of Steeton’s opening attack Ben Hemsley & Steve Pearson. The middle-order was then dismantled by Paul Quinlan, who finished with 3 wickets for just 23 runs from his 9 overs, including a boundary catch safely pouched by Ben Hemsley. Rawdon were rocking at 49 runs with 5 wickets down after 25 overs. Ewan Johnston also bowled a great spell that claimed a further 2 wickets for 22 runs from 7 overs, including another catch on the boundary by Ben Hemsley – a replica of his previous catch! James McDonald (1-15) bowled 6 tight overs and took a simple return catch off his own bowling. The re-introduction of the opening bowlers, Steve & Ben, polished off the stubborn Rawdon tail. Skipper Steve Pearson finished with 2 wickets for just 9 runs from 7.1 overs; while Ben Hemsley also finished with 2 wickets for 22 runs from 9 overs, with a catch safely pouched by Aussie Jack Ramage. Steeton had made excellent use of winning the toss and had bowled Rawdon all out for ‘Nelson’ 111 runs in 41.1 overs.

Steeton’s reply began worryingly with both openers being adjudged leg-before-wicket and so Steeton were 2 wickets down with just 16 runs on the board. Matthew Nutter fell to the 2nd delivery of the innings & Jack Ramage (12) looked in fine form before he was sent back to the pavilion. Coming in at No3 Luke Chapman played an ideal ‘anchor’ role that held the Steeton innings together. Luke added 17 runs for the 3rd wicket with Ben Hemsley, who was caught out for 9 runs. Luke continued and added 46 runs for the 4th wicket with James Robinson, who scored a fluent 23 runs from 48 deliveries with 3 boundaries before he was caught & bowled with the score on 79 runs. When skipper Steve Pearson came out to join Luke, together they added the further 36 runs needed for victory. Steve had scored an unbeaten 24* runs from just 22 deliveries with 5 boundaries. The winning boundary was stroked by Luke Chapman, who came off the field top-scoring with an immaculate unbeaten 33* runs scored carefully from 108 deliveries with just that single boundary. Steeton had scored 115 runs for the loss of 4 wickets in 34.2 overs. With a masterful performance Steeton out-batted, out-bowled & out-fielded Rawdon. A jubilant Steeton have retained the Waddilove Cup by beating Rawdon by 6 wickets.

Skipper Steve Pearson was named Man-of-the-Match by the League’s Adjudicator and Steeton sponsors Rinew Legal named Luke Chapman as their Man-of-the-Match

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Kirkstall Educational 159 a/o in 48.2

Steeton 162-1 in 26.5 overs

Steeton travelled to Kirkstall hoping to keep up their challenge for promotion to division 1 to add to their Waddilove Cup success. Skipper Steve Pearson won the toss and chose to field first…a decision that proved correct as they reduced Kirkstall Educational to 42 runs with 5 batsmen already back in the pavilion. The scourge of Kirkstall was Ben Hemsley, who took 4 wickets for 39 runs from his 15 overs, with a catch taken by keeper Adam Smith. Paul Quinlan also had a major influence as he ran out the opening batsman and also took 3 wickets for 41 runs for 14.2 overs, with a catch by Craig Walton and a stumping by Adam Smith. Ewan Johnston (2-38) bowled a successful spell which removed Kirkstall’s top-scorer – Ben Harrison (66). Kirkstall Educational were all out for 159 runs in 49.2 overs.

In reply Steeton were imperious as they began with an opening partnership of 52 runs, before Australian Jack Ramage was clean bowled for 33 runs scored from just 25 deliveries with 7 boundaries. Jack’s opening partner was Luke Chapman, who went on to add a further 110 runs for a match-winning unbroken 2nd wicket partnership with Craig Walton. When they left the field victorious Luke had scored an unbeaten 41* runs scored from 75 deliveries with 4 boundaries; while Craig Walton top-scored with an unbeaten 70* runs scored from just 63 deliveries with 2 sixes & 11 fours. Steeton had scored 162 for the loss of 1 wicket in 26.5 overs to complete a masterful win. Steeton (20 points) beat Kirkstall Educational (2 points) by 9 wickets

Craig Walton is my Man-of-the-Match

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Green Lane

Steeton

Steeton (4 points) lost to Green Lane (17 points) by 95 runs. FP to Paul Quinlan

Adam Hardwick & Steve Pearson are my joint Steeton Men-of-the-Match

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Steeton 89 a/o in 20 overs

Keighley 93-4 in 16 overs

Steeton batted first and could only manage 88 runs in their 20 overs. Keighley knocked off the below par total for the loss of 4 wickets with 4 overs to spare.

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Steeton 177-9 in 50 overs

Colton Institute 83 a/o in 26.4 overs

Steeton travelled to the far side of Leeds to visit Colton Institutes ground and when skipper Steve Pearson won the toss he chose to bat first. On a tricky wicket Steeton had 8 players reach double figures without any batsman registering a half-century. Opener Craig Walton scored 23 careful runs from 57 deliveries with 2 boundaries and he shared 31-run 2nd wicket partnership with John Akrigg (11). Ben Hemsley chipped in with 18 runs, but top-scorer for Steeton was James Robinson, who scored 45 runs from 72 deliveries with 3 boundaries. The remaining batsman making contributions were: Steve Pearson (13), Adam Smith (12) & Paul Quinlan (11) and Adam Hardwick (17*). After their 50 overs Steeton had scored 177 runs for the loss of 9 wickets.

In reply Colton also found the wicket difficult under pressure from the good Steeton bowling attack. Opening bowler Ben Hemsley took 2 wickets for 29 runs from 8 overs and had catches taken by keeper Adam Smith & skipper Steve Pearson. Ben’s opening partner was Steve Pearson who also took 2 wickets for 19 runs from his 8 overs. Pick of the bowlers was Ewan Johnston despite conceding 9 runs from his first over. Ewan finished with 4 wickets for just 18 runs from 5.4 overs, with a catch taken by Ben Hemsley. Off spinner Adam Hardwick took the other 2 wickets for 15 runs from his 5 overs, with a further 2 catches taken by keeper Adam Smith. Colton Institute were dismissed for 83 runs all out in 26.4 overs. Steeton (18 points) beat Colton Institute (4 points) by 94 runs.

James Robinson & Ewan Johnson are my joint Men-of-the-Match

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Steeton

Opponents

Steeton (17 points) beat Bolton Villas (5 points) by 92 runs. Skipper Stephen Pearson took 7 wickets for 18 runs. FPs were awarded to Paul Quinlan and Ewan Johnston

Stephen Pearson is my Man-of-the-Match

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Steeton 260-7 in 50 overs

Bardsey 222 a/o in 48.5 overs

Steeton travelled to Bardsey and on a very hot day skipper Steve Pearson had little hesitation in choosing to bat first. Steeton’s batters were soon in trouble as they slipped to 31 runs with 4 wickets already back in the pavilion…and only Craig Walton (13) managing double figures. Opening batsman Luke Chapman was still at the crease and when he was joined by skipper Steve Pearson, together they compiled 178 runs for the 5th wicket partnership. Unfortunately both set batsmen departed in consecutive balls with the score on 209 runs in 46 overs. Skipper Steve Pearson had scored a wonderful 66 runs from 100 deliveries with 6 boundaries; Luke Chapman deserved a century, but had to settle for a magnificent 96 runs scored from 141 deliveries with 2 sixes & 10 fours. With just 4 overs left Steeton’s incoming batsmen looked to score quickly. Two Adams registered wonderful cameo knocks: Adam Smith scored 15 runs from just 6 balls with 2 maximums, but was surpassed by Adam Hardwick, who scored 22* runs not out from 14 balls with 2 sixes & 1 four. Steeton closed with an excellent 260 runs for the loss of 7 wickets in their 50 overs.

In reply Bardsey batted really well and until the 37th over were well on course for victory. At the end of the 37th over and the start of the 38th over Steeton took a ‘team hat-trick’ and Bardsey’s 173-3 became 173-6. Earlier James Robinson had removed a Barsdey opener and No3 batsmen as he took 2 wickets for 49 runs from his 10 overs, with a catch taken by keeper Adam Smith. But it was the return of the opening bowlers Steve Pearson and Paul Quinlan that had swung the game back in favour of Steeton. With 3 batsmen clean-bowled and an LBW Paul Quinlan finished with the great figures of 4 wickets for 45 runs from 12 overs; Skipper & batting hero, Steve Pearson, also took 4 wickets for 52 runs from 14.5 overs with catches taken by Luke Chapman & Ewan Johnston. Luke Chapman was awarded a fielding point. Bardsey were all out for 222 runs in 48.5 overs. Steeton (20 points) beat Bardsey (7 points) by 38 runs. Going into the final match of this season Steeton are in 2nd place in the division just a slender 4 point advantage over 3rd placed Ilkley. Steeton play top-of-the-table Adel next week to decide whether they will be joining them in the top flight.

Luke Chapman & Steve Pearson are my joint Men-of-the-Match

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Steeton 200-9 in 50 overs

Adel 171 a/o in 46.4 overs

Let’s set the scene for this encounter: Steeton are 2nd in division 2 coming into the final game, but Ilkley are breathing down their necks just 4 points adrift. On paper Ilkley have an easier last match, as Steeton are playing the ‘already crowned’ division champions, Adel. This is like Steeton’s 2nd cup final of the season…win or bust. Skipper Steve Pearson lost the toss and were asked to bat first. None of Steeton’s top 4 batsmen managed double figures and all were out caught as Steeton slumped to 17 runs with 4 wickets down…and any hopes of promotion seemed dashed. The tumble of wickets was slowed by a 33-run 5th wicket partnership between Louis Horsfield & skipper Steve Pearson, before Louis was out caught for 19 runs scored from 51 balls with 1 six & 2 fours. Steve went on to share an even better 7th wicket partnership of 64 runs with Paul Quinlan, before Paul too was out caught for a battling 31 runs scored from 31 deliveries with 2 sixes & 3 fours. Steve Pearson completed his half-century but was caught behind for 54 runs scored from 110 deliveries with 1 six & 6 fours. Steeton were on 139 runs with 9 wickets down in the 45th over when Adam Hardwick came to the crease to join Adam Smith, who was on 4 runs. The hope was that the final pair could push the total to 150 and claim a second batting point…Adam Smith had other ideas! Adam Smith played a quite remarkable innings as he farmed the strike for the final 4½ overs and dispatched the ball to all parts of the ground. Adam Hardwick finished with 0* runs, but shared in a surprisingly wonderful unbroken 71-run partnership. Adam smashed the final delivery for a massive maximum and left the field having scored a whirlwind unbeaten 64* runs from just 33 deliveries with 6 sixes & 4 fours. Steeton had posted 200 runs for the loss 9 wickets in their 50 overs.

In reply Adel too struggled with the uneven bounce and opener Ben Hemsley dislodged both opening batsmen and finished with 3 wickets for 58 runs from 10.4 overs, with a regulation catch by Bradley Akrigg and a super low slip catch grabbed by Matt Nutter. Spinner Adam Hardwick (1-29) had a good catch taken by Ben Hemsley. At the 25-over drinks break Adel were 66 runs with 4 wickets down and Steeton were informed that Ilkley had already won their final match. Skipper Steve Pearson bowled 13 tight overs as he took 2 wickets for 41 runs with a comfortable catch taken by James Robinson. Pick of the bowlers however was Paul Quinlan, who took 4 wickets for just 41 runs from his 15 overs, with a well judged catch on the mid-wicket boundary by Bradley Akrigg as well as too excellent (and important) catches taken in he gathering gloom on the long-on boundary by Craig Walton. Both Craig Walton & Ben Hemsley were awarded fielding points. When Ben Hemsley clean bowled the final batsman Steeton celebrated a fantastic season, which they had just capped with promotion to the top-flight. Adel had been dismissed for 171 runs all out in 46.4 overs. Steeton (19 points) beat Adel (6 points) by 28 runs.

Adam Smith is my Man-of-the-Match

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Steeton 3pts

Old Leodienians 3pts

Steeton’s match at Old Leodienians was called off in the morning. Heavy rain had made their field unfit.

Bilton 137 a/o in 45 overs

Steeton 138-0 in 34 overs

Having been called off last week Steeton 2nds began their season welcoming Bilton to Summerhill Lane. Steeton skipper Simon Cox lost the toss and Bilton chose to bat first. It was not long before James MacDonald had ripped out both openers to leave Bilton at 13-2. James finished with 3 wickets for just 19 runs from his 12 overs with a sharp catch in the gully by Gary Boulton. James opened the bowling with David Wynn, who also collected 3 wickets for 31 runs from 10 overs with 2 good catches safely pouched by Max Hibbert. Max Harrison bowled 5 tight overs which only conceded 11 runs as he removed Bilton’s captain & top-scorer, Vass (43), driving hard but in the air and straight to Ryan Ridehalgh at point. Gary Boulton (1-33) nipped out a further wicket with a thin edge to keeper John Akrigg. Also in the wickets was Jake Hill who bowled 5 tight overs, which only conceded 6 runs as he collected 2 wickets with a second catch at point by Ryan Ridehalgh. Ryan was awarded 2 league fielding points. At the tea break Bilton had scored a below-par 137 runs all out in their 45 overs.

Steeton’s reply was nothing short of imperious. Skipper Simon Cox opened with Max Hibbert and together they put on a batting masterclass. Simon top-scored with an unbeaten 67* runs scored from 111 deliveries with 10 boundaries: while Max Hibbert’s run of excellent form continued with an unbeaten with 61* runs scored from 93 deliveries with 10 boundaries. Together they amassed 138 runs in 34 overs without losing a single wicket. Steeton (20 points) beat Bilton (2 points) by 10 wickets.

Simon Cox & Max Hibbert are my joint Men-of-the-Match

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Steeton 160-8 in 45 overs

Otley 98 a/o in 26 overs

Steeton travelled to Otley’s Cross Green ground with a strong team to try to continue their solid start to the 2023 season. Skipper Simon Cox lost the toss and Otley asked Steeton to bat first. After a solid 31-run opening partnership Steeton slipped to 32 runs with 3 wickets down. Steeton’s opening batsmen were skipper Simon Cox, who scored 13 runs and Max Hibbert, who scored 18 runs. The experienced John Akrigg however was immovable as he steadfastly accumulated runs. John shared an excellent 47-run 4th wicket partnership with Max Harrison, who contributed 14 runs. John then went on to share 40-run 6th wicket partnership with Luke Watson, who contributed 22 runs scored from 30 deliveries with 3 boundaries. After their 45 overs John Akrigg was unbeaten with a wonderful 73* runs scored from 111 deliveries with 1 six & 8 fours…and thanks largely to John’s efforts Steeton had amassed an excellent total of 160 runs for the loss of 8 wickets.

In reply Steeton were buoyant in the field as they took wickets regularly. A devastating opening blast by David Wynn saw Otley reduced to 8 runs with 3 wickets down. David finished with 3 wickets for 23 runs from 7 overs with a catch safely pouched in the covers by Bradley Akrigg. The dependable Gary Boulton nipped out a further 2 wickets for 19 runs from 6 overs, with both wickets falling to well-judged catches at mid-off by Luke Watson. Luke Watson & Jake Hill were awarded fielding points. Otley’s top-scorer was Wolfenden (38) who dragged on to Jake Hill (1-28) for his only wicket of the day. Pick off the bowlers however was James MacDonald, who removed a single wicket in his opening spell…but came back to add a further 3 scalps. James finished with 4 wickets for just 17 runs from his 8 overs, with 3 Otley batsmen clean-bowled with ‘Yorkers’ and a 3rd catch for the safe hands of Luke Watson. Otley had been skittled for 98 runs all out in 26 overs. Steeton (18 points) beat Otley (4 points) by 62 runs.

John Akrigg is my Man-of-the-Match

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Horsforth Hall Park 186-8 in 45 overs

Steeton 90 a/o in 33.2 overs

Steeton skipper Simon Cox won the toss and asked Ilkley to bat first on a warm sunny day at Summerhill Lane. Jake Hill ripped out the top 3 Hall Park batsmen, as the were reduced to 78 runs with 4 wickets down. Jake finished with 3 wickets for 48 runs from 9 overs. Max Harrison (1-27) taking the other wicket. While Steeton’s ground fielding was good a number of catches were squandered, which would surely have suppressed the Hall Park scoring. The opening bowlers were brought back on and had some success with James MacDonald taking 2 wickets for 24 runs from his 12 overs and David Wynn (1-32), courtesy of a great catch at square-leg by Craig Walton. David Wynn also ran out another batter as Hall Park closed with 186 runs for the loss of 8 wickets in 45 overs…better catching could have reduced this target by 50 runs!

In reply Steeton rapidly crashed to 46 runs with 5 wickets down in 18 overs, with opener skipper Simon Cox the only one of the top-5 batsmen to reach double figures. Simon scored 20 runs from 44 deliveries with 3 boundaries. Steeton continued to lose wickets regularly with only Bradley Akrigg showing any resistance. Bradley top-scored for Steeton with 29 runs scored from 47 deliveries with 5 boundaries as he watched a procession of wickets fall at the other end. Steeton were all out for just 90 runs in 33.2 overs. Defeat means Steeton winning streak of 18 straight wins in a row has come to an end…the last time Steeton 2nd XI lost was on 11th June last year! Steeton (4 points) lost to Horsforth Hall Park (19 points) by 96 runs.

Jake Hill & Bradley Akrigg are my joint Steeton Men-of-the-match

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Steeton 261-6 in 45 overs

Olicanian 168 a/o in 44.1 overs

Cup Holders Steeton travelled to Olicanian’s Denton Road ground to begin their defence of the Birtwhistle cup. When Steeton skipper Simon Cox lost the toss and was invited to bat first. Skipper Simon Cox opened the innings with Craig Walton and together they scored 60 runs in 12 overs before Craig was stumped having scored 39 runs from 37 deliveries with 7 boundaries. Simon went on to add 40 runs for the 2nd wicket with John Akrigg, who contributed 17 runs. As John Akrigg left the field he was replaced by his son Bradley Akrigg. Bradley smashed a rapid 56 runs from just 44 deliveries with 2 sixes & 6 fours and along with Simon added 127 runs for the 3rd wicket partnership. During this partnership skipper Simon Cox completed a wonderful century. Both batsmen were out in quick succession – Simon caught out with 103 runs to his name from 124 deliveries with 10 boundaries. Steeton’s first century of the season. Chasing quick bonus runs late in the innings Steeton lost further 2 wickets: George Bell scored 11 runs from 11 balls and Max Hibbert was caught out off the last ball having scored 19 runs off 14 balls. Steeton closed with a formidable 261 runs for the loss of 6 wickets in their 45 overs – almost 6 runs per over!

In reply great opening blast by David Wynn had Olicanian struggling at 7 runs for 2 wickets and then 26 runs for 4 wickets. David Wynn claimed the top 3 wickets and his 9 overs conceded just 35 runs with catches taken by John Akrigg, Luke Watson and Craig Walton. The next 3 Olicanian wickets all fell to Gary Boulton, who finished with great figures of 9 overs 3 wickets for just 24 runs, courtesy of a 2nd catch for John Akrigg and one for Simon Cox as well as a stumping by Max Hibbert. Olicanian were 89-6 after 24 overs and well behind on the DLS total. George Bell bowled a good 7-over spell and was rewarded with 2 wickets for 40 runs. Luke Watson nipped out the 9th wicket with a comfortable catch taken by Bradley Akrigg, but the last wicket was proving to be elusive as Olicanian added 26 runs. Enter John Akrigg for the last over of the innings…John’s ultra-slow pseudo-spin captured the final wicket with his very first delivery! Olicanian had been bowled all out for 168 runs in 44.1 overs. Cup Holders Steeton are comfortably through to the 2nd round of the Birtwhistle cup with a 93-run victory.

Simon Cox is my Man-of-the-Match

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Rawdon 141 a/o in 41.5 overs

Steeton 142-4 in 35.3 overs

Steeton travelled to Rawdon’s Larkfield Road ground and when skipper Simon Cox lost the toss Rawdon chose to bat first. Steeton were soon among the wickets with Rawdon slipping to 29 runs with 3 wickets down. Opening bowlers David Wynn (1-18) and Jake Hill doing the damage. The middle order was then demolished by the experienced pairing of Gary Boulton and Paul Hardwick. Following his mid-week treatment for his back Gary took 2 wickets for 33 runs from 9 overs: and bowling his first spell for more than a year following treatment to his shoulder Paul returned fantastic figures of 3 wickets for 14 runs from 4 overs, with all 3 wickets clean-bowled. Jake Hill returned to ‘top & tail’ the innings with a further 2 wickets. Jake finished with great figures of 4 wickets for 34 runs from 11.5 overs. None of the Rawdon batsmen fell to catches, but Paul Hardwick was awarded a fielding point. Rawdon were all out for just 141 runs in 41.5 overs.

In reply Steeton were once again grateful for the batting talents of John Akrigg. John shared a 46-run 2nd wicket partnership with skipper Simon Cox, who contributed 21 runs scored from 47 deliveries with 4 boundaries. Craig Walton hit a cameo innings of 10 runs before John Akrigg went on to share a 31-run 4th wicket partnership with Luke Watson (10). John then found a match-winning partner in George Bell, as they shared an unbroken 34-run 5th wicket stand. George Bell scored 19* runs not out from 26 deliveries with 4 boundaries, while John top-scored with an unbeaten 67* runs from 96 deliveries with 13 boundaries. Steeton had scored 142 runs for the loss of 4 wickets in 35.3 overs. Steeton (20 points) beat Rawdon (4 points) by 6 wickets.

John Akrigg & Jake Hill are my joint Men-of-the-Match

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Tong Park Esholt 286-6 in 45 overs

Steeton 177 a/o in 37.5 overs

Steeton travelled to Tong Park’s Esholt ground and when skipper Simon Cox lost the crucial toss Tong Park chose to bat first. Tong Park’s opening batsmen compiled 148 runs before losing their first wicket – clean bowled by Paul Hardwick (1-35). The next 2 wickets fell to James MacDonald who finished with 2 wickets for 51 runs from 9 overs, with catches taken by Bradley Akrigg & keeper Max Hibbert. Pick of the bowlers was David Wynn who claimed 3 wickets for 66 runs from 9 overs, including the wicket of Tong Park centurian Kirkley (34). The fielding points went to David Wynn & Craig Walton as Tong Park Esholt closed with the considerable total of 286 runs for the loss of 6 wickets in their 45 overs.

In reply Steeton had lost both openers with 42 runs on the board: skipper Simon Cox for 11 runs and Max Hibbert for 14 runs. A middle order fight-back was started by Bradley Akrigg, who scored 33 runs from 40 deliveries with 7 boundaries. Bradley shared a 29-run 4th wicket partnership with Max Harrison (8) followed by a 24-run 5th wicket partnership with George Bell (11). As Steeton slipped to 110 runs with 7 wickets down Paul Hardwick & James MacDonald offered great resistance as they added a superb 61 runs for the 8th wicket partnership. James was caught for 22 valuable runs scored from 53 deliveries with 4 boundaries, while Paul was unbeaten with 25* runs not out from 41 deliveries with 3 boundaries. Steeton never looked likely to challenge the Tong Park target and were all out for 177 runs in 37.5 overs. Steeton (7 points) lost to Tong Park Esholt (20 points) by 109 runs.

James MacDonald is my Steeton Man-of-the-Match

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Steeton

Kirkstall Educational

Steeton (18 points) beat Kirkstall Educational (5 points) by 104 runs. Bradley Akrigg was awarded with a club fielding point.

Craig Walton is my Man-of-the-Match

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Steeton

Green Lane

Steeton beat Green Lane by 8 wickets. Luke Watson was awarded with a club fielding point.

Craig Walton is my Man-of-the-Match

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Green Lane 190 a/o in 44 overs

Steeton 191-7 in 43.3 overs

Steeton travelled to Green Lane’s Nunroyd Park ground on a hot & sunny day and when skipper Gary Boulton lost the toss Green Lane had little hesitation in choosing to bat first first. With just 13 runs on the board Green Lane had lost both opening batsmen and Steeton kept chipping away as they toiled in the heat. Pick of the Steeton bowlers was Paul Hardwick, who collected 3 wickets for 23 runs from 6 overs with a catch taken by Will Smith. Will Smith along with Paul Hardwick were awarded fielding points. Not far behind Paul with the bowling was Will Smith, who also took 3 wickets, with a catch taken by keeper Max Hibbert. George Bell (2-27) took 2 wickets including Green Lane’s top-scorer Ashley Robert (53), courtesy of catches by Luke Watson and another for keeper Max Hibbert. David Wynn (1-41) gave keeper Max Hibbert his third catch and the other wicket was clean-bowled by skipper Gary Boulton (1-23). Green Lane closed with a sizeable 190 runs all out in 44 overs.

In reply Steeton had lost both openers with the score on 40 runs, with Simon Cox out LBW for 16 runs and Finlay Brown run out for 15 runs. Steeton were once again indebted to the batting talents of John Akrigg. John shared a 3rd wickets partnership of 43 runs with Luke Watson, who contributed 15 runs. John then went on to share an even better 70-run 4th wicket partnership with Will Smith, who score a good 32 runs from 46 deliveries with 1 six & 3 fours. In the 36th over Steeton were 155 runs with 5 wickets down, but importantly John was still at the crease. John then brought Steeton to the brink of victory as he shared a 32-run 6th wicket partnership with Max Hibbert, who contributed 18 runs. With 9 balls to spare John Akrigg fittingly pushed the single that gave Steeton a hard-won victory…John finished with an unbeaten 64* runs scored from 97 deliveries with 8 boundaries. Steeton scored 191 runs for the loss of 7 wickets in 43.3 overs. Steeton (20 points) beat Green Lane (7 points) by 3 wickets.

John Akrigg is my Man-of-the-Match

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Rodley 90 a/o in 23.3 overs

Steeton 91-2 in 21.5 overs

Steeton entertained Rodley’s 1st XI team on a dampish day at Summerhill Lane. Early rain meant this fixture was reduced to a 41 overs per side match. Rodley’s batting had struggled over the last couple of matches, so when Steeton’s skipper Gary Boulton lost the toss it was a little surprised that Rodley decided to bat first. Steeton went straight for the jugular as Rodley lost both openers without a run being scored. Steeton’s opening bowlers were too much for the weak Rodley outfit and chief destroyer was James MacDonald, who claimed a fantastic 5 wicket haul. James took 5 wickets for 32 runs from his 11 overs, with catches taken by keeper Max Hibbert, Bradley Akrigg at 3rd slip and a regulation catch by David Wynn. David Wynn took 3 wickets for 32 runs from 8 overs with all 3 wickets caught out by Max Harrison. Max Harrison was awarded a fielding point. Skipper Gary Boulton (1-24) collected a single wicket and it took Max Harrison (1-1) just 3 deliveries to collect the final scalp. Rodley 1st XI had been bowled all out for 90 runs in just 23.3 overs.

In reply Steeton were once again beholden to John Akrigg, who was the ‘glue’ for the innings. John shared a 32-run 2nd wicket partnership with Simon Cox who was out LBW for 13 runs. John went on to share an unbroken 57-run 2nd wicket stand with his son Bradley Akrigg. Steeton completed the victory with a wide…John Akrigg had scored an unbeaten 43* runs not out from 53 deliveries with 9 boundaries; while Bradley Akrigg had scored an unbeaten 29* runs from 29 deliveries with 6 boundaries. Steeton had scored 91 runs for the loss of 2 wickets in 21.5 overs. Steeton (19 points) beat Rodley (1 points) by 8 wickets.

James MacDonald is my Man-of-the-Match

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Steeton 136 a/o in 44.4 overs

Bingley Congregationals 1st XI 139-8 in 32.1 overs

Steeton travelled to Bingley Congregationals to play their 1st XI on a hot and sunny day. Steeton skipper Gary Boulton won the toss and chose to bat first. Steeton’s batting was not up to it’s usual high standards and after a solid 70-run 2nd wicket partnership they lost both set batsmen: Craig Walton was run out for 26 runs scored from 45 deliveries with 4 boundaries; and the reliable John Akrigg, who had scored 35 runs from 89 deliveries with 7 boundaries. Bradley Akrigg chipped-in with 20 runs off 41 balls including 1 six & 2 fours, but was losing partners at the other end. When Bradley was caught & bowled Steeton were 107 runs with 7 wickets down. The final 3 wickets added 33 runs thanks largely to max Hibbert, who scored 20 valuable runs from 24 deliveries with 3 boundaries. Steeton had made a below par 136 runs all out in 44.4 overs.

In reply Bingley Congs 1st XI also found the wicket difficult as opening bowler Will Smith snapped up the first 3 wickets with Bingley Congs only scoring 41 runs. Will finished with 3 wickets for 25 runs from his 8 overs, with a catch taken by Luke Watson. Skipper Gary Boulton (1-26) took a single LBW wicket, as did Paul Hardwick (1-23) as Bingley Congs slipped to 88 runs with 6 wickets down. Bradley Akrigg (1-16) gave Luke Watson a second catch, which earned Luke 2 fielding points. A run out by keeper Max Hibbert, before Max Harrison (1-21) removed Bingley Congs’s top scorer Adil (47), led to an exciting finish. Bingley were 110 runs for 8 wickets – 2 wickets needed for Steeton or 26 runs by Bingley! Unfortunately it was Bingley Congs who held their nerve to finish on 139 runs for the loss of 8 wickets in 32.1 overs. Steeton (6 points) lost to Bingley Congregationals 1st XI (18 points) by 2 wickets.

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

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Kirkstall Educational 209 a/o in 42 overs

Steeton 213-4 in 43 overs

Steeton travelled to Kirkstall Educational and when skipper Gary Boulton lost the toss Kirkstall Ed, chose to bat first. Kirkstall had a 68-run opening partnership which was broken by George Bell (1-36). The other Kirkstall opener was removed by Craig Walton (1-41), but then the innings turned into a Gary Boulton bowling masterclass. Gary took a terrific 6 wickets for 43 runs from 9 overs, with a catch taken by Luke Watson and 3 catches taken by Bradley Akrigg. Bradley Akrigg earned himself 2 club fielding points. The other 2 wickets were both clean bowled Max Harrison, who finished with 2 wickets for 20 runs off 7 overs. Kirkstall Educational had scored 209 runs all out in 42 overs.

In reply Steeton’s batting was exemplary with every batsman who came to the crease making a sizeable contribution. Beginning with an opening partnership of 83 runs, before Simon Cox was clean bowled for 28 runs from 66 deliveries with 1 six & 3 fours; and Craig Walton followed on the same score having scored 37 runs from 54 deliveries with 7 boundaries. An Akrigg father & son partnership of 41 runs for the 3rd wicket followed, before Bradley Akrigg was bowled for 34 runs from just 25 deliveries with 1 six & 6 fours. John Akrigg went on to share a 43-run 4th wicket stand with Max Harrison, who contributed 27 runs from just 26 deliveries with 3 boundaries. Finally John shared an unbroken match-winning 46-run 5th wicket partnership with Luke Watson (12*). John Akrigg saw Steeton to a convincing victory and came off the field with an unbeaten 45* runs scored from 78 deliveries with 5 boundaries. Steeton had scored 213 runs for the loss of 4 wickets in 43 overs. Steeton beat Kirkstall Educational by 6 wickets.

Gary Boulton is my Man-of-the-Match

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Steeton 229-4 in 44 overs

Adel 197 a/o in 41.5 overs

Steeton entertained Adel on a showery day at Summerhill Lane. When skipper Gary Boulton lost the toss Adel asked Steeton to bat first. A 43-run opening stand was followed by an even better 70-run 2nd wicket partnership between the experienced batsmen Craig Walton & John Akrigg, before Craig was caught behind having scored a fantastic 80 runs from 90 deliveries with 14 boundaries. John went on to add a further 78 runs for the 3rd wicket with Cameron Knowles, before John was clean-bowled just 1 run shy of his half-century. John departed with 49 runs scored from 81 deliveries with 1 six & 4 fours. Cameron Knowles was in scintillating form as he scored a wonderful unbeaten 68* runs from just 46 deliveries with 3 sixes & 6 fours. Cameron shared rapid unbroken 36-run 5th wicket stand with Max Hibbert, who contributed 15* runs not out from 11 balls. Steeton closed with 229 runs (exactly the same as the 1st XI total!) for the loss of 4 wickets in their 44 overs (a rain delay had reduced Steeton’s over allotment by 1 over & increased Adel’s winning target to 231 runs)

In reply Adel raced to 44 runs before the introduction of Max Harrison who had 2 successful LBW appeals in one over. Max Harrison finished with excellent figures of 3 wickets for 25 runs from 7.5 overs. Max’s figures was bettered by skipper Gary Boulton, who took 4 wickets for 74 runs from 13 overs with 2 remarkably good catches taken by Luke Watson on the long off boundary, as well as a good driven return catch off his own bowling. Never has the cricketing mantra ‘catches win matches’ been more applicable. Craig Walton also claimed 2 wickets due to excellent catching. Craig took 2 wickets for 32 runs from 8 overs and had a catch taken on the mid-wicket boundary by Cameron Knowles and a 3rd catch on the long off boundary by Luke Watson. Luke was awarded 3 league fielding points, while Cameron earned 1 league fielding point. David Wynn (1-34) picked up the other wicket as Adel were bowled all out for 197 runs in 41.5 overs. Steeton (20 points) beat Adel (6 points) by 32 runs (although the DLS calculation meant Adel actually needed to score 1 extra run – so it states that Steeton won by 33 runs).

Craig Walton is my Man-of-the-Match

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Steeton 201-5 in 35 overs

Old Leodiensians 137-5 in 24 overs

Steeton entertained Old Leodiensians 1st XI at Summerhill Lane with rain and Duckworth-Lewis sure to play a crucial role in proceedings. The match was reduced to a 35 overs per side fixture and when Old Leos won the toss they asked Steeton to bat first. At the 12 over point Steeton had lost both their opening batsmen: Simon Cox (14) & Ryan Ridehalgh (17). Akrigg father & son: John & Bradley together added 34 runs for the 3rd wicket partnership before John departed for 27 runs from 35 balls with 4 boundaries…and Bradley (11) followed soon after bring Steeton to 86 runs with 4 wickets down after 20 overs. This brought together Luke Watson & Max Hibbert with 15 overs of the innings remaining. Together Luke & Max compiled a wonderful 88-run 5th wicket partnership in 13 overs. Luke Watson was adjudged LBW having scored a great 52 runs from 52 deliveries with 1 six & 4 fours. At the end of the Steeton innings Max Hibbert was unbeaten with a wonderful 63* runs not out from just 48 deliveries with 3 sixes & 5  fours. Steeton had posted a commanding 201 runs for the loss of 5 wickets in their 35 overs.

Further rain took more overs out of the match and the revised target as decreed by Duckworth-Lewis was 165 runs in 24 overs. Old Leos batted well but were always behind the required run rate. Opening bowler James McDonald took the first 2 wickets reducing Old Leos to 49-2 and James finished with 2 wickets for 26 runs from 7 overs, with a catch taken by keeper Max Hibbert. The next 2 wickets were taken by Bradley Akrigg reducing Old Leos to 98-4 and Bradley finished with 2 wickets for 48 runs from 7 overs. Ryan Ridehalgh (1-22) took the other wicket to fall as Old Leodiensians closed  with 137 runs for the loss of 5 wickets in 24 overs. Luke Watson was awarded a fielding point. Steeton (17 points) beat Old Leodiensians 1st XI (4 points) by 27 runs.

Max Hibbert is my Man-of-the-Match

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Tong Park Esholt 288 a/o in 45 overs

Steeton 132-3 in 27 overs

Cup holders Steeton travelled to Tong Park’s Esholt ground to compete for a place in this year’s Birtwhistle cup final. Steeton skipper Gary Boulton lost the toss and Tong Park chose to bat first. Tong Park’s opening batsman Kirkley (135) blasted Tong Park to a commanding 288 runs all out in their 45 overs. Despite being the 7th bowler tried, Bradley Akrigg bowled an excellent 8 overs which conceded 47 runs as he collected 6 wickets, including clean bowling Tong Park’s centurian Kirkley. Bradley had catches taken by his father John Akrigg at point & Max Harrison at mid-on. The other successful bowlers were Max Harrison, who took 2 wickets for 63 runs from 9 overs and Paul Hardwick (1-38). Paul Hardwick also threw in sharply for Max Harrison to smartly remove the bails and run out another batsman as Tong Park Esholt set their impressive 288-run target – almost 6½ runs per over.

In reply Steeton batted steadily and were increasing their scoring rate as the thundery rain arrived. Play was halted at the 23 over point and Steeton were 97 runs without losing a wicket with Simon Cox on 31* runs and Craig Walton on 59* runs. Unfortunately Steeton were 10 runs behind the DLS score. When the rain finally relented and the pitch made playable the DLS revised winning target was 160 runs in 27 overs – meaning Steeton had just 4 overs to try to score 63 runs! Simon Cox was bowled for 31 runs scored from 63 deliveries with 2 boundaries and Craig Walton followed shortly after caught for 60 runs scored from 82 deliveries with 1 six & 10 fours. Despite Ryan Ridehalgh crashing 23 runs from just 10 deliveries with 1 six & 3 fours, Steeton fell 27 runs short. Steeton had scored 132 runs for the loss of 3 wickets in 27 overs and so will not be competing in this year’s Birtwhistle cup final.

Match video

Bradley Akrigg is my Man-of-the-Match

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Steeton 3 pts

Bilton 3 pts

Steeton’s fixture at bottom of the division Bilton was called off in the morning due to the wet weather

Otley 141 a/o in 30.2 overs

Steeton 122 a/o in 32.2 overs

Steeton entertained Otley with a dire weather forecast. The start was delayed and this fixture became a 37 overs per side match. Skipper Gary Boulton won the toss and chose to field first. Steeton’s bowlers bowled well against a strong batting line-up and kept taking wickets. Chief destroyer was opening bowler James McDonald, who finished with 4 wickets for 27 runs from 8.2 overs, with a skied catch safely taken at mid-off by Luke Watson and a sharp grab in mid-wicket well taken by Finlay Brown. Jake Hill also bowled an excellent spell as he collected 3 wickets for 38 runs from 7 overs, including a smart one-handed grab by keeper John Akrigg. 13 year-old Archie Cox (2-23) clean-bowled 2 batsmen and David Wynn (1-36) collected the other wicket. Steeton had bowled Otley all out for 141 runs  in 30.2 overs.

In reply Steeton found chasing this low target a tricky task. Many Steeton batsmen got good starts, but were unable to turn them into significant contributions. The usually reliable batters Simon Cox (11), John Akrigg (10) & Craig Walton (16) were all dismissed cheaply and Steeton were teetering at 43 runs with 5 wickets down. In the middle-order George Bell top-scored for Steeton with 28 runs scored from 30 deliveries with 1 six & 4 fours. As the Steeton tail collapsed David Wynn provided staunch resistance as he scored an unbeaten 19* runs off 23 balls with 3 boundaries. Sadly Steeton were all out for 122 runs in 32.2 overs a tantalising 19 runs short of the Otley target. Steeton (6 points) lost to Otley (17 points) by 19 runs.

James McDonald is my Steeton Man-of-the-Match

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Steeton 174 a/o in 40.2 overs

Horsforth Hall Park 175-5 in 30.4 overs

Steeton travelled to Horsforth’s Hall Park ground and when skipper Gary Boulton won the toss he chose to bat first. Opener Simon Cox (19) added 43 runs for the 2nd wicket with Craig Walton, who scored 27 runs from 43 deliveries with 4 boundaries. John Akrigg chipped in with 13 runs before, George Bell top-scored with 37 runs scored from 44 deliveries with 2 sixes & 3 fours. A shuttering of middle-order wickets saw Steeton at 134 runs with 8 wickets down when skipper Gary Boulton was joined by the experienced David Wynn. Gary and David added a further 39 runs for the 9th wicket, before Gary was caught out for 28 runs scored from 26 deliveries with 1 six & 4 fours. At the close David Wynn was not out having scored 17* runs from 18 balls with 3 boundaries. Steeton had scored 174 runs all out in 40.2 overs

In reply Horsforth Hall Park were wobbling at 74-4, but a strong middle-order saw them home. Pick of the bowling was David Wynn with 2 clean bowled wickets for 48 runs from 7 overs. David Wynn also effected a run-out and was awarded a fielding point. Jake Hill (1-27) and Archie Cox (1-28) both had successful LBW appeals, but the Hall Park  batsmen prized their wickets. Horsforth Hall Park scored 175 runs for the loss of 5 wickets in 30.4 overs. Steeton (5 points) lost at Horsforth Hall Park (20 points) by 5 wickets

David Wynn is my Steeton Man-of-the-Match

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Rawdon 199-7 in 45 overs

Steeton 202-4 in 29 overs

Steeton entertained Rawdon at Summerhill Lane with dark clouds and ominous predictions of rain. Skipper Gary Boulton won an important toss and asked Rawdon to bat first. Pick of the Steeton bowlers was youngster Archie Cox, who bowled 8 overs for 21 runs as he collected 3 wickets, including a catch by Jake Hill. Also in the wickets was George Bell, who took 2 wickets for 66 runs, with a catch taken by keeper Max Hibbert. Max Harrison (1-15) bowled a tight opening spell and Cameron Knowles (1-50) had a catch taken by John Akrigg. After their 45 overs Rawdon had scored 199 runs for the loss of 7 wickets.

In reply Steeton were led by opening batsman Max Harrison, who scored an exceptional 81 runs from just 59 deliveries with 5 sixes & 9 fours. Max shared a great 110-run 2nd wicket partnership with John Akrigg, who notched a half-century. John score 52 runs from 61 deliveries with 8 boundaries. The solid scoring rate was maintained by Cameron Knowles, who saw Steeton to the brink of victory before being bowled for 43 runs from just 27 deliveries with 1 six & 7 fours. Steeton smashed 202 runs for the loss of 4 wickets in 29 overs. Steeton (18 points) beat Rawdon (6 points) by 6 wickets

Max Harrison is my Man-of-the-Match

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Steeton 46 a/o in 15.1 overs

Tong Park Esholt 47-2 in 5 overs

The less said about this match the better! Steeton entertained Tong Park at Summerhill Lane and when skipper Gary Boulton lost the toss Steeton were asked to bat first. Steeton’s batting was a disaster zone with only 1 batsman managing double figures: opener Max Harrison scored 11 runs from 13 balls with 2 boundaries. The only other score worthy of mention was youngster Archie Cox (6*), but Steeton were all out for a mere 46 runs scored from 15.1 overs.

In reply Steeton found it difficult to make any inroads into the Tong Park batting. Youngster Archie Cox was involved in both of the wickets that Steeton took. Archie ran out 1 opener and also took the only bowler’s wicket: Archie took 1 wicket for 11 runs from 2 overs, with a catch taken by David Wynn. Both David Wynn and Archie Cox were awarded fielding points. Tong Park Esholt smashed 47 runs for the loss of 2 wickets in just 5 overs.  Steeton (1 points) lost to Tong Park Esholt (19 points) by 8 wickets

Archie Cox is my Steeton Man-of-the-Match

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Kirkstall Educational

Steeton

Steeton (6 points) lost to Kirkstall Educational (20 points) by 68 runs. FPs to Archie Smith & Finlay Brown

Archie Cox & John Akrigg are my joint Steeton Men-of-the-Match

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Green Lane 89 a/o in 38.3 overs

Steeton 92-5 in 18.4 overs

Steeton hosted Green Lane at Summerhill Lane and when skipper Gary Boulton won the toss he asked Green Lane to bat first. Green Lane batted like a side at the bottom of the division. Both openers were removed by opening bowler James Macdonald, who bowled a 13-over spell from the road end and took 2 wickets for 33 runs, with an edge caught by keeper Max Hibbert and a good low catch at square-leg taken by Simon Cox. Youngster Archie Cox  bowled a superb spell that could have claimed more scalps, but he finished with the great figures of 2 wickets for 6 runs from his 6 overs, courtesy of a fantastic slip catch by Cameron Knowles & a good catch in the gully by skipper Gary Boulton. Cameron Knowles (1-11) took a good catch of his own bowling from a ball that had been drilled back at him. Cameron Knowles & Archie Cox were awarded league fielding points. The best was yet to come as despite being the 6th bowler used, Max Harrison took  a wonderful 5-wicket haul. Max took 5 wickets for just 7 runs from 5.3 overs, with a nice catch driven low to David Wynn at point. Green Lane had been demolished for 89 runs all out in 38.3 overs.

After losing an early wicket, Steeton’s reply began in earnest with a 49-run 2nd wicket partnership between opener Max Harrison and No3 Cameron Knowles: Max was caught at mid-off having top-scored with 30 runs from just 23 deliveries with 5 boundaries; and Cameron was bowled for 19 runs. Youngster Archie Cox (16*) added 14 runs for the 5th wicket with Max Hibbert (10) to bring Steeton to the brink of victory…which was completed by George Bell (4*) smashing a boundary. Steeton had scored 92 runs for the loss of 5 wickets in 18.4 overs. Steeton (18 points) Beat Green Lane (2 points) by 5 wickets.

Max Harrison is my Man-of-the-Match

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Steeton

Opponents

Steeton (19 points) Beat Rodley 1st XI (7 points) by 1 wicket. George Bell top-scored with 53 runs. Luke Watson was awarded a fielding point.

George Bell is my Man-of-the-Match

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Steeton 178 a/o in 43 overs

Bingley Congregationals 180-1 in 29.5 overs

Steeton’s 2nd XI hosted Bingley Congregationals 1st XI at Summerhill Lane, and when skipper Gary Boulton won the toss he chose to bat first. Steeton’s innings began with an excellent 86-run opening partnership between the 2 Maxs: Max Hibbert and Max Harrison. Max Hibbert deserved a half-century, but was bowled for 46 runs scored from 57 deliveries with 9 boundaries. Max Harrison did complete his half-century before being adjudged LBW having scored 53 runs from 54 deliveries with 12 boundaries. John Akrigg added a solid 28 runs, but when he departed Steeton had slipped to 127 runs with 5 wickets down. Will Smith chipped in with 11 runs, before the tail-end was bolstered by a good 28 runs scored by Luke Watson from 34 balls with 1 six & 3 fours. Steeton had not been able to fully capitalise on their excellent start and were bowled all out for 178 runs in 43 overs.

In reply Steeton found wickets hard-earned and a few ‘half-chances’ were grounded. Steeton tried 9 different bowlers, but it was only after Bingley Congs had reached 161 runs that they had their only success. Keeper Max Hibbert took a sharp catch off the bowling of Max Harrison (1-16). Bingley Congs passed the Steeton target with 15 overs to spare. Bingley Congregationals had scored 180 runs for the loss of just 1 wicket in 29.5 overs. Steeton (4 points) lost to Bingley Congregationals 1st XI (20 points) by 9 wickets.

Max Harrison & Max Hibbert are my joint Steeton Men-of-the-Match

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Steeton 267-6 in 41 overs dec

Adel 179 a/o in 41.5 overs

Neither side in this encounter were going to win the league and both were mathematically safe from any regulation worries. When skipper Gary Boulton lost the toss Adel asked Steeton batted first. Steeton’s batting line-up was jumbled, with skipper Gary Boulton opening alongside John Akrigg, at the request of the rest of the team. The following batsmen were pretty much in a reverse-order from what you might have normally expected. Gary certainly made the most of his promotion to opener and top-scored with a wonderful 76 runs from 81 deliveries with 2 sixes & 10 fours. Gary shared an opening partnership of 32 runs with John Akrigg (11). Steeton’s batters were urged to throw caution to the wind and when George Bell joined Gary he did as asked. Together they added 73 runs for the 4th wicket, with George scoring a scintillating 58 runs from just 32 balls with 4 sixes & 7 fours. Gary went on to add a further 65 runs for the 5th wicket with Will Smith. Will Smith went on to add 56 runs for the 6th wicket with Max Hibbert, who contributed 37 runs from just 30 deliveries with 1 six & 5 fours. Will Smith completed his half-century and skipper Gary Boulton declared with 4 overs unused. Will Smith came off with an unbeaten 55* runs from 68 deliveries with 9 boundaries along with Luke Watson (9*). Steeton had scored an impressive 267 runs for 6 wickets declared in 41 overs.

In reply Steeton opened the bowling with Simon Cox, who hadn’t had a bat. After trying 4 bowlers it was the introduction of Max Harrison and in particular George Bell, which halted the Adel charge. Max Harrison broke the opening stand and clean bowled 2 batters for 27 runs from 7 overs. Pick of the bowlers was undoubtedly George Bell bowling off-breaks, who finished the season with a 5-wicket haul to add to his half-century. George took 5 wickets for 35 runs from his 13 overs and had a stumping by keeper Max Hibbert as well as a good catch by Luke Watson. Luke was awarded a fielding point. James Macdonald (1-23) nipped out a single wicket before the last 2 wickets were bowled by Will Smith (2-9). Adel had been bowled all out for 179 runs in 41.5 overs. Steeton (20 points) beat Adel (7 points) by 88 runs, and finish the season in a creditable 5th place in their division.

Gary Boulton & George Bell are my joint Steeton Men-of-the-Match.

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Steeton 172-3 in 40 overs

Pool 128-6 in 30 overs

Steeton skipper James Nowell lost the toss and was asked to bat first by visitors Pool. Steeton began their innings with an excellent 64-run opening stand before Archie Smith was caught behind for 22 runs scored from 70 deliveries with 1 boundary. Finlay Brown was joined by another Archie…this one was Cox…and together they amassed a super 81-run 2nd wicket partnership before Finlay was caught out having top-scored with 71 runs scored from 108 deliveries with 7 boundaries. Archie Cox followed shortly after run out having scored 31 runs from 48 balls with 1 boundary. With quick runs needed Max Hibbert obliged with an unbeaten 22* runs from just 16 deliveries with 2 boundaries. Steeton closed with an impressive 172 runs for the loss of 3 wickets in their 40 overs.

In reply Pool were soon reduced to 32 runs with 2 wickets down, with both wickets clean bowled by Ben Yeadon, who finished with 2 wickets for 21 runs from 8 overs. A run out from a throw by Finlay Brown, via James Nowell to Mikey Tennant to take off the bails had Pool 36-3 and Steeton in charge. The fortunes of this game swung back and forth as the clouds loomed – Pool got up with the DLS par-score and lost a wicket which again meant Steeton were once again ahead. During this middle stage leg-spinner Mikey Hoffman-Tennant (1-34) chipped in with a single wicket courtesy of a stumping by keeper Max Hibbert. As Pool looked to be in the ascendancy they were brought back by the introduction of Louisa Hutchinson, who removed both of the ‘set’ batsmen and finished with excellent figures of 4 overs 2 wickets for 18 runs, with a great diving catch taken by Finlay Brown. Finlay was awarded a league fielding point along with Tom Smith. As the next 2 experienced Pool batters began to establish themselves the light continued to fade. At the end of the 30th over the DLS score was exactly equal to the actual innings score and the umpires decided that the light had become too poor to continue. Play was suspended and a DLS tied result was declared. Pool had scored 128 runs for the loss of 6 wickets in 30 overs. Steeton (12 points) tied with Pool (9 points)

Finlay Brown is my Man-of-the-Match

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Skipton 218-5 in 33 overs

Steeton 112 a/o in 22.5 overs

Steeton crashed out of the Ian Chappell Cup at the first hurdle with home defeat at the hands of a strong Skipton side. Skipper James Nowell lost the toss and Skipton chose to bat first. Frequent rain delays interrupted the Skipton innings, but the runs flowed freely as the Steeton bowlers were unable to stem the tide. The opening partnership was broken by leg-spinner Mikey Hofman-Tennant (1-35) with a good catch by skipper James Nowell. The next wicket fell LBW shortly after to Max Harrison (1-20) and when skipper James Nowell (1-35) clean bowled the next batsman Skipton were 96 runs for 3 wickets. Skipton then added 103 runs for their 4th wicket before the introduction of the 7th bowler – ex-Skipton player Archie Smith. Archie removed both of the set batsmen (Facey (86) & Macrae (79)) and finished with great figures of 2 overs for 11 runs off 2 overs, with a good catch safely pouched by Bradley Akrigg. Jack Gibson was awarded a fielding point as Skipton closed their innings with a formidable 218 runs (adjusted to 222 runs by DLS) for the loss of 5 wickets in their 33 overs – Steeton would have to score at over 6½ runs per over.

In reply Steeton were hopeful with the calibre of fast-scorers Ryan Ridehalgh, Bradley Akrigg & the in-form Max Hibbert in the side. A bright 27-run opening partnership was curtailed when Ryan Ridehalgh was caught and bowled trying to pull for 14 runs from 14 deliveries with 2 boundaries. A 49-run 2nd wicket partnership was broken when Archie Smith was caught out for 25 runs scored from 36 deliveries with 1 six & 3 fours. In-form Max Hibbert top-scored with 39 scintillating runs scored from just 37 deliveries with 5 boundaries, but when he was caught out Steeton were 99 runs for 4 wickets. No other batsman managed double figures and Steeton crashed to 112 runs all out in 22.5 overs. Steeton lost by 109 runs and will take no further part in this year’s Ian Chappell cup.

Archie Smith is my Steeton Man-of-the Match

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Steeton 3pts

Alwoodley 3pts

This fixture was called off in the morning with the Alwoodley pitch too damp to allow this match to be played. Both sides collect 3 points each.

Guiseley 280-8 in 40 overs

Steeton 184 a/o in 38.1 overs

A strong Guiseley outfit visited Summerhill Lane on a dry day and when Steeton skipper James Nowell lost the toss Guiseley chose to bat first. Steeton began smartly with a wicket in the first over before a single run had been scored…the bowler being Ben Yeadon (1-17) with a catch taken by keeper Max Hibbert. Unfortunately after 2 overs Ben hurt his back and was unable to continue. Ben opened the bowling with George Bell and Guiseley had only progressed to 35 runs when George took the 2nd wicket. George finished with the best bowling figures of 3 wickets for 69 runs from 8 overs, with a good catch taken by Archie Cox. A solid 116-run Guiseley 3rd wicket stand was broken by Jack Gibson (1-31) with skipper James Nowell comfortably pouching the catch. Skipper James Nowell (1-34) took a skied catch off his own bowling, but no bowler was able to stem the flow of runs. As Guiseley piled on more runs Mikey Hofman-Tennant threw down the stumps to run out one batsman and keeper Max Hibbert ran out another batsman. After their 40 overs Guiseley had scored a huge 280 runs for the loss of 8 wickets…7 runs per over!

In reply none of the top 4 Steeton batsmen managed double figures as Steeton slipped to 34-4. The slump was steadied by a solid 46-run 5th wicket partnership between Luke Watson and Archie Cox (12). Luke went on to add a further 49-runs for the 6th wicket with skipper James Nowell, before Luke was unfortunately run out for a well earned 51 runs scored from 49 deliveries with 9 boundaries. James Nowell also completed a super half-century before being clean bowled for a top-scoring 68 runs from just 51 deliveries with 2 sixes & 9 fours. Steeton closed with a thoroughly respectable 184 runs all out in 38.1 overs. Steeton (9 points) lost to Guiseley (20 points) by 96 runs.

James Nowell is my Steeton Man-of-the-Match

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Steeton 225-7 in 40 overs

Rawdon 111 a/o in 28.3 overs

Steeton skipper James Nowell won the toss and asked chose to bat first against Rawdon at Summerhill Lane. Steeton lost both openers cheaply, but an excellent 53-run 3rd wicket partnership between Archie Cox & Max Hibbert put the innings back on track. Archie Cox was caught out for 25 runs scored from 65 deliveries with 4 boundaries. Max then went on to add a further 63 runs for the 4th wicket with George Bell, who contributed a fine 35 runs from just 31 deliveries with 5 boundaries. Max then went on to add a further 46 runs for the 5th wicket with skipper James Nowell, before Max Hibbert was caught on the long-on boundary having scored a thrilling 77 runs from just 72 deliveries with 1 six & 6 fours. Josh Gill scored a cameo 14 runs, but at the close skipper James Nowell was not out having scored a rapid  55* runs from only 39 balls with 2 sixes & 5 fours. Steeton closed with a considerable total of 225 runs for the loss of 7 wickets in their 40 overs.

In reply Rawdon were no match for quick bowler Josh Gill who wiped out the top 7 batsmen. Josh finished with remarkable figures of 8 overs 3 maidens 7 wickets for 13 runs, with catches taken by James Nowell, Archie Cox & 2 by Archie Smith. Jake Hill (1-26) gave Archie Smith his 3rd catch of the match, and young spinner Jack Gibson  (1-10) had a one-handed catch grabbed by Ben Yeadon. The final wicket was clean-bowled by Archie Cox (1-7) as Rawdon were bowled all out for 111 runs in 28.3 overs. Steeton (20 points) beat Rawdon (5 points) by 114 runs.

Josh Gill is my Man-of-the-Match

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Adel 190-8 in 40 overs

Steeton 163-8 in 40 overs

After heavy overnight rain it was remarkable that when Steeton arrived at Adel the sun was shining and the field was dry. Steeton skipper James Nowell lost the toss and Adel chose to bat first knowing that the Adel wicket would get progressively slower and the bounce lower. With just 10 runs on the board Steeton had removed both openers. Opener Ben Yeadon (1-28) was the bowler with the initial breakthrough. Pick of the bowlers was Josh Gill who clean bowled 2 wickets for 19 runs from his 8 overs. Not far behind Josh was Archie Smith, who also took 2 wickets for 15 runs from 4 overs and Max Harrison who also took 2 wickets for 23 runs from 8 overs with a skied catch comfortably taken by keeper Tom Smith. Nathan Joseph (1-21) was unlucky to not take more wickets as he removed Adel’s top scorer, Wan (51), nicely taken in the slips by El Presidente, Phil Barrett. Nathan Joseph was awarded a fielding point, as after their 40 overs Adel had posted an impressive 190 runs for the loss of 8 wickets.

In reply Steeton had a good 78-run 2nd wicket partnership between opener Finlay Brown & Archie Smith. Finlay Brown was bowled for 32 runs scored from 75 deliveries with 5 boundaries; while Archie Smith was caught & bowled for 39 runs scored from 74 deliveries with 5 boundaries. As expected the pitch was getting slower and lower and Adel were packed with slow bowlers…death by spin! With a shuttering of cheap middle-order wickets Steeton had slumped to 114 runs with 6 wickets down in 33 overs. Steeton’s hopes were raised by a 28-run 7th wicket partnership between Nathan Joseph and Tom Smith, before Tom Smith was bowled for 10 runs. At the end of the Steeton innings Nathan Thomas was clapped from the ground having scored an unbeaten 32* runs not out from 37 deliveries with 3 boundaries. Steeton had scored 163 runs for the loss of 8 wickets in their 40 overs. Steeton (8 points) lost to Adel (19 points) by 27 runs.

Archie Smith & Nathan Joseph are my joint Steeton Men-of-the-Match

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Steeton 3pts

Menston 3pts

Our 3rd XI fixture at Menston was called off in the morning due to the persistent rain.

Steeton 188-7 in 40 overs

Olicanian 114 a/o in 32.2 overs

Despite their best efforts and pleadings our 3rd XI could only muster 10 players to travel to Olicanian. Skipper James Newell lost the toss and Steeton were asked to bat first. Steeton’s 10 heroes batted really well…starting with a 44-run opening partnership, before losing Will Smith for 17 runs from 30 balls with 2 boundaries. Will’s opening partner was Finlay Brown, who added a further 27 runs for the 2nd wicket before he too departed having scored 27 runs from 63 deliveries with 3 boundaries. At No3 Archie Smith top-scored with 35 runs from 52 balls with 1 six & 3 fours. The solid scoring continued with the Maxes: Max Harrison scoring 21 runs from 21 deliveries and Max Hibbert scoring 12 runs. At 137 runs with 6 wickets down Steeton were looking precarious, but our 3rd XI were projected to an excellent total by way of a wonderful 49-run 7th wicket partnership between Mikey Hofman-Tennant and Ben Yeadon. Ben was eventually bowled for 21 runs scored from 24 deliveries with 2 boundaries; while Mikey was able to leave the field undefeated with 29* runs not out from 24 deliveries with 5 boundaries. Steeton had scored a considerable 188 runs for the loss of 7 wickets in their 40 overs.

In reply Ben Yeadon followed his batting exploits by removing both Olicanian openers as they tumbled to 24 runs with 3 batsmen back in the pavilion. Ben finished with 2 wickets for 19 runs from 8 over, with a catch by keeper Max Hibbert. Max Harrison (1-24) gave keeper Max Hibbert his 2nd catch. The Olicanian middle-order was wiped out by Will Smith, who took 4 wickets for 20 runs from 8 overs, with a further catch by keeper Max Hibbert and 1 for Max Harrison. Skipper James Nowell (1-18) had a catch taken by Archie Smith and Archie Smith (1-15) had a catch taken by Mikey Hofman-Tennant. The final wicket was Olicanian’s top-scorer Du Preez (55) who fell to Finlay Brown (1-2) with a 4th catch taken by keeper Max Hibbert. Olicanian were all out for 114 runs in 32.2 overs. Steeton (20 points) beat Olicanian (5 points) by 74 runs.

Ben Yeadon & Mikey Hofman-Tennant are my joint Men-of-the-Match

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Steeton

Kirkstall Educational

Steeton (4 points) lost to Kirkstall  Educational (17 points) by 9 wickets. FPs Max Hibbert & Archie Cox

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Steeton

Ilkley

Steeton (8 points) lost to Ilkley (19 points) by 34 runs. Max Harrison & Archie Smith were awarded fielding points.

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North Leeds 143 a/o in 37.2 overs

Steeton 17-0 in 3.1 overs

With the usual 3rd XI skipper away doing the Great North Run, vice-captain Finlay Brown lost the toss and North Leeds chose to bat first. Despite just having arrived at the ground after a game of football, Will Smith opened the bowling and removed both openers with catches taken by keeper Max Hibbert. Will finished with 3 wickets for 25 runs from 7 overs. The next wicket fell to Max Harrison (1-9) with a difficult catch taken in the slips by Phil Barrett, and North Leeds were 52-3. Luke Watson (1-38) had a comfortable catch taken by Will Smith and Jake Hill ran out another batsmen before he had even faced a single ball. The big difference came with the introduction of youngster Nathan Thomas. Nathan took 4 wickets for 22 runs from 4.2 overs, with an excellent return catch drilled back at him, a spectacular catch running back and catching as it came over his head by Phil Barrett as well as 2 regulation catches by Luke Watson. El Presidente Phil Barrett was awarded 2 fielding points. North Leeds had been bowled all out for 143 runs in 37.2 overs.

Steeton’s reply began with the rumbles of thunder and flashes of lightning. After 3.1 over Finlay Brown was 5* runs not out and Max Harrison was 11* runs not out and the rain began. Steeton were 17 runs without loss. The covers were promptly installed but the torrential rain meant the field was soon unfit the match was abandoned. Steeton (8 points) were rained off against North Leeds (6 points)

Nathan Joseph is my Man-of-the-Match

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Horsforth Hall Park 157 a/o in 35.3 overs

Steeton 161-7 in 31.5 overs

Going into the last game of the season neither of these sides were mathematically safe from demotion…so a lot at stake for both teams. Steeton skipper James Nowell won the toss and chose to field first. Hall Park raced to 34 runs before trying to sneak a single to skipper James Yeadon at mid-on. James swooped in and picked-up cleanly and threw the wickets down to break the opening partnership. Hall Park’s incoming batsmen was soon walking back as keeper Max Hibbert took a thin-edge off the bowling of Jake Hill (1-36). A solid 3rd wicket stand was broken by the introduction of Nathan Joseph, who removed both set batters and finished with 3 wickets for 25 runs from his 5 overs, with a well-judged catch on the mid-wicket boundary by Archie Cox. Roles reversed and Nathan Joseph took a good catch on the mid-wicket boundary off the bowling of Archie Cox (1-28). The off-spin of George Bell earned him 3 wickets at the cost of just 28 runs from 8 overs, with a 2nd boundary catch by Nathan Joseph. Nathan was awarded 2 fielding points. As a last wicket stand looked to be starting skipper James Nowell (1-0) brought himself on and it took him just 3 balls to have the last wicket caught by keeper Max Hibbert. Horsforth Hall Park were all out for 157 runs in 35.3 overs.

In reply Steeton began with the most eventful first over ever: in all 10 balls were bowled 33 runs were scored and 1 wicket lost. In all 13 runs came from wides (2 going to the boundary) and George Bell smashed 2 sixes & 2 fours off the deliveries which were within reach. George Bell continued to hit boundaries, but was caught out after 13 deliveries during which time he had scored 38 runs with 5 sixes & 2 fours. Steeton were off to a rapid start with Max Hibbert scoring 11 runs off 11 balls, as they raced to 73 runs with 4 wickets down in just 7½ overs. A less frenetic partnership followed between youngsters Archie Cox & Nathan Joseph. Archie Cox was adjudged LBW having scored 29 runs from 65 deliveries with 6 boundaries; and Nathan Joseph was bowled having scored 19 runs from 48 deliveries with 3 boundaries. Steeton were 7 wickets down on 149 runs and still requiring a further 9 runs for victory. Time for the skipper! James Nowell calmly scored 18 runs from 16 balls with 4 boundaries as well as stroking the ball to the extra-cover boundary to win the match. Steeton had scored 161 runs for the loss of 7 wickets in 31.5 overs. Steeton (20 points) beat Horsforth Hall Park (7 points) by 3 wickets. Steeton finished a creditable 7th in the division (and Hall Park also avoided demotion).

George Bell & Nathan Joseph are my joint Steeton Men-of-the-Match

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