Steeton 286-5 in 50 overs

S McNamara 156*, J Procter 0, A Luxton 18, N Spragg 8, M Taylor 63, J Best 4, J Taylor 24*, Extras 13
B Waller 14-2-79-2, T Simpson 10-3-42-2, G Lee 15-1-82-1, T Westerman 5-1-24-0, C Rajarantha 6-0-50-0

Calverley 239-4 in 50 overs

A Jones 0, S Curry 27, C Rajarantha 103, I Mirza 10, G Lee 53, B Waller 35*, Extras 11
R Suri 7-4-22-1, J Best 13-3-62-0, G Boulton 7-1-54-0, N Spragg 8-0-36-1, J Taylor 11-1-36-1, S McNamara 4-0-21-0

Steeton begin their 2011 campaign with an impressive 4-2 winning draw at home against Calverley. Batting first Steeton’s opener Australian Shane McNamara was in magnificent form as he scored a great unbeaten 156* runs on his Steeton debut. Shane started his innings steadily, before increasing the tempo to finish with 156* runs scored from 164 deliveries with 6 sixes & 13 fours. Steeton had been reduced to 47 runs for 3 wickets, with the reliable Andrew Luxton out for 18 runs & new 1st XI skipper Neil Spragg out for just 8 runs. Shane shared an impressive 4th wicket partnership of 141 runs with Mark Taylor, who scored a valuable 63 runs from 69 deliveries including 1 six & 7 fours, and then as the innings drew to its finale Shane also shared a quick-fire unbroken 6th wicket stand of 60 runs with Jonathan Taylor, who contributed 24* runs not out from 17 deliveries. At the tea interval Steeton were satisfied with their 286 runs for the loss of 5 wickets in 50 overs.

In reply Ross Suri (1-22) got Steeton off to a great start as he removed one of Calverley’s openers before they had scored any runs, courtesy of a leg-side catch by debutant keeper Dominic Bennett. Dominic had a fantastic debut, with 2 catches, a run-out and only 1 bye! Skipper Neil Spragg (1-36) nipped out the other opener courtesy of a catch by Mark Taylor. Calverley’s Rajarathna scored 103 runs, before he become keeper Dominic’s second victim from the rapid bowling of Jonathan Taylor (1-36). Jonathan Taylor was awarded 2 fielding points. Calverley never really threatened Steeton’s 286-run target, despite only losing 4 wickets, they closed on 239 runs for the loss of 4 wickets in their 50 overs. Steeton collect 4 points from a winning draw, but Steeton’s batting track was the clear winner, with 9 wickets falling as 525 runs was scored in 100 overs, including 2 centuries.

Bolton Villas 147 a/o in 42.4 overs

L Margerison 0,A Clarke 6, B Shuttleworth 7, D Gaunt 34, M Clarke 5, N Kettle 38, P Clarke 6, U Yaqoob 6, L Stockhill 11, S Lawrence 10, M Oldfield 6*, Extras 18
J Best 8-3-20-2, R Suri 11-3-37-4, G Boulton 10-3-23-1, J Taylor 4-0-30-0, A Luxton 9.4-3-20-3

Steeton 148-2 in 26.3 overs

S McNamara 34, J Procter 15, J Akrigg 32*, A Luxton 55*, Extras 12
U Yaqoob 6-0-46-0, S Lawrence 8-3-25-1, M Oldfield 5-0-30-1, M Clarke 3-0-23-0, D Gaunt 4.3-1-14-0

Steeton continued their impressive start to the 2011 campaign with an 8-wicket victory at Bolton Villas. Batting first Bolton Villas were all out for 147 runs in 42.4 overs. Bolton Villas were blitzed by opening bowlers Ross Suri, who took 4 wickets for 37 runs from 11 overs and Jon Best, whose 8 overs cost 20 runs as he collected 2 wickets. Gary Boulton (1-23) chipped in with a wicket, before the tail-end was blown away by the leg spin of Andrew Luxton, who claimed 3 wickets for just 20 runs from 9.4 overs. The bowlers were well supported in the field with a further 2 catches for new keeper Dominic Bennett, and a single catch each for Neil Spragg, Jon Best & Australian Shane McNamara. Jonathan Taylor & Andrew Luxton were awarded the fielding points.

With the job half done, Steeton came out all guns blazing after the tea break. Opener Shane McNamara scored a rapid 34 runs from just 22 deliveries with 1 six & 6 fours. Shane shared an opening stand of 53 runs with James Procter (15). With both openers falling in quick succession Steeton continued the onslaught with John Akrigg (32*) & Andrew Luxton (55*) sharing a match winning 89-run unbroken 3rd wicket stand. John Akrigg scored his unbeaten 32* runs from 58 deliveries with 7 boundaries, and Andrew Luxton hit 3 sixes & 6 fours as he faced just 54 balls to top-score with 55* runs not out. Steeton had scored 148 runs for the loss of 2 wickets in 26.3 overs to win by 8 wickets with 30 overs to spare. Steeton leave Bolton Villas with all 6 points on offer.

Tong Park 192-8 in 50 overs

N Hanif 13, S Mir 27, F Masqood 17, Q Akbaz 1, D Groom 8, J Wilkinson 54*, A Amir 20, G Wilkinson 32, A Tayloz 1, Z Mahmood 1*, Extras 16
J Best 16-3-49-3, R Suri 10-1-48-2, A Luxton 5-3-18-0, G Boulton 10-3-34-2, S McNamara 9-3-27-0

Steeton 193-6 in 44.1 overs

S McNamara 54, J Procter 1, J Akrigg 11, A Luxton 13, N Spragg 32, M Taylor 26*, J Best 28, J Jordan 13*, Extras 15
N Hanif 14.1-2-60-0, M Scott 16-4-43-2, F Masqood 1-0-16-0, Z Mahmood 7-0-40-1, Q Akbaz 6-0-21-2

Steeton continued their dominant start to the season with a convincing win at home to Tong Park Esholt. Batting first Tong Park made 192 runs for 8 wickets in their 50 overs, thanks largely to Wilkinson, who scored 54*. The pick of the Steeton bowlers was Jon Best, who took 3 wickets for 49 runs from 16 overs. There were also 2 wickets each for Ross Suri (2-48) & Gary Boulton (2-34). Steeton’s fielding was excellent with 2 catches by James Jordan earning him a fielding point & a well judged catch by Ross Suri also earning him a fielding point. Mark Taylor also collected a catch. At the tea interval Steeton knew that they had kept Tong Park in check, but that a solid batting display would be required to collect any points from this match.

After 16 overs Steeton had stuttered to 48 runs for 3 wickets, with John Akrigg (11) smashing a 6 straight over the sightscreen before clipping a simple catch to square-leg; …and Andrew Luxton (13) hitting 3 boundaries before being run out. Fortunately for Steeton Australian Shane McNamara was still there & he went on to share a 54-run 4th wicket partnership with skipper Neil Spragg. Shane’s great start to the season continued with a half-century – his 54 runs coming from 94 deliveries with 2 sixes & 8 fours. When Shane was caught out Neil followed shortly afterwards for a fine 32 runs scored from 55 balls faced with 5 boundaries. Mark Taylor (26*) then shared a responsible 6th wicket stand of 64 runs with Jon Best (28). Mark hit 4 boundaries and faced 39 deliveries for his unbeaten 26* runs; and Jon Best also hit 4 boundaries and faced 31 deliveries for his 28 runs. When James Jordan came to the crease he was clearly in a hurry as he hit 3 fours from just 6 balls faced, and finished with an unbeaten 13* runs. Steeton had scored 193 runs for the loss of 6 wickets from 44.1 overs, to win by 4 wickets with 5 overs to spare. Steeton collect all 6 points, and have now taken 16 points from their first 3 games putting them in 3rd place in division 2.

Upper Wharfedale 87-9 in 30 overs

A Barton 0, J Freebury 0, A Foulds 9, D Eggleton 2, T Stead 9, M Thomas 35*, D Parkinson 0, S Pearson 2, J Schindler 20, T Baines 8, Extras 2
J Best 15-4-36-4, R Suri 7-2-10-2, G Boulton 4-0-23-0, N Spragg 4-0-16-1

Steeton 89-0 in 19.4

S McNamara 71*, J Procter 18*, Extras 0
S Pearson 10-3-27-0, D Wynn 3-1-9-0, D Parkinson 3-1-19-0, D Eggleton 3.4-0-34-0

Rain reduced this fixture to 30 overs per side, and Upper Wharfedale were asked to bat first. Steeton’s bowlers restricted the scoring rate, and continually took wickets which meant Upper Wharfedale could only manage to score 87 runs for the loss of 9 wickets in their 30 overs – a total which at 26 runs for 7 wickets could have been even more meagre if ex-Steeton player Matthew Thomas had not scored 35* runs. Pick of the Steeton bowlers was Jon Best, who bowled 15 overs unchanged from one end, and finished with 4 wickets for 34 runs – one wicket being caught behind by keeper Dominic Bennett. Jon’s opening partner was Ross Suri, whose 7 overs only conceded 10 runs as he collected 2 wickets, courtesy of catches by Neil Spragg & Mark Taylor. Skipper Neil Spragg (1-16) took the other wicket, as two of the Upper Wharfedale batsmen were run out: one by James Procter & one by Shane McNamara’s throw to Neil Spragg from the last ball of the innings.

Steeton were devastating in reply, with in-form Australian Shane McNamara scoring a majestic unbeaten 71* runs from 67 deliveries with 2 sixes & 12 fours. Shane shared an unbroken, match-winning opening partnership of 89 runs with James Procter, who scored 18* runs not out with 2 boundaries. Steeton knocked off 89 runs without losing a wicket in just 19.4 overs, to win by 10 wickets and collect all 6 points.

Upper Wharfedale 136 a/o 44.2 overs

D Eggleton 1, A Foulds 1, A Barton 22, J Freebury 14, T Stead 0, M Thomas 23, C Lockett 0, S Pearson 45, J Schindler 10, T Baines 12, D Wynn 1*, Extras 7
J Best 6-1-19-1, R Suri 7-4-11-3, M Taylor 5-0-17-0, G Boulton 9-3-23-0, A Luxton 4-0-22-2, S McNamara 7.2-0-33-3, N Spragg 6-0-17-1

Steeton 138-8 in 29.2 overs

S McNamara 44, J Procter 14, J Akrigg 4, A Luxton 12, N Spragg 0, M Taylor 4, J Best 31*, J Jordan 0, G Boulton 0, D Bennett 4*, Extras 25
S Pearson 8-1-26-0, D Wynn 2-0-16-0, T Baines 9-2-34-4, D Eggleton 8.2-0-38-3, M Thomas 2-1-5-0

Steeton completed the double over Upper Wharfedale this weekend to progress to the next round of the Waddilove Cup. Batting first Upper Wharfedale managed 136 runs all out in 44.2 overs. Opener Ross Suri was in devastating form as he took 3 wickets for just 11 runs from 7 overs. Australian Shane McNamara was also in the wickets as he collected 3 wickets for 33 runs from 7.2 overs. Spinner Andrew Luxton (2-11) also bowled 4 excellent overs, and there was a single wicket apiece for skipper Neil Spragg (1-17) & Jon Best (1-19).

In reply Steeton were 44 runs before losing their 1st wicket, James Procter who had scored 14 runs. Opener Australian Shane McNamara scored 44 runs from 49 deliveries with 8 boundaries, but watched from the other end as wickets tumbled. Jon Best stopped the rot with a remarkable battling unbeaten 31* runs with 6 boundaries. With 3 ‘ducks’ in the middle order, it was the stalwart defence of Dominic Bennett (4*), who stayed with Jon Best to compile a match-winning unbroken 9th wicket stand of 42 runs. This steadfast rearguard defence allowed Steeton to sneak to victory over Upper Wharfedale. Steeton had scored 138 runs for the loss of 8 wickets in 29.2 overs to complete a 2 wicket victory with 15 overs to spare. In the next round Steeton are at home to Olicanian on 22nd May.

Steeton 215-8 in 50 overs

S McNamara 11, C Luxton 14, J Akrigg 42, A Luxton 10, N Spragg 19, M Taylor 48, J Best 23, D Bennett 1, G Boulton 26*, J Jordan 4*, Extras 17
S Wales 14-2-67-3, J Morley 6-0-26-0, B Singleton 12-2-37-1, P Khan 15-2-53-4, A Boyle 3-0-20-0

North Leeds 130 a/o in 47.4 overs

R Winter 0, G Mander 29, U Khawaja 1, M Kellaway 0, G Wales 6, B Singleton 42*, P Khan 14, S Wales 6, A Boyle 4, D Cowley 0, J Morley 16, Extras 8
J Best 14-5-42-2, R Suri 12-3-32-5, N Spragg 9-6-14-2, G Boulton 6-2-21-0, S McNamara 4-0-8-0, A Luxton 2-1-4-0, M Taylor 0.4-0-0-1

Batting first Steeton scored 215 runs for the loss of 8 wickets in their 50 overs. Both Steeton’s openers were back in the tent with the score on 32 runs: Australian Shane McNamara (11) registered his lowest score of the season & his opening partner was Chris Luxton who scored 14 runs. John Akrigg (42) steadied the innings with partnerships of 28 runs for the 3rd wicket with Andrew Luxton (11) & 51 runs for the 4th wicket with skipper Neil Spragg (19). John scored his 42 runs from 77 deliveries with 4 boundaries. Mark Taylor top-scored with 48 runs from just 33 deliveries with 1 six & 5 fours before being caught out on the long off boundary just short of what would have been a well deserved half-century. Mark shared a 66-run 6th wicket stand with Jon Best, who contributed 23 runs. Gary Boulton plundered 20 runs from the last over to finish with an unbeaten 26* runs scored from 18 balls faced with 4 fours & a massive ‘DLF Maximum’ six off the very last ball. At the tea interval Steeton knew they had posted a reasonable target, but they would have to bowl & field well to defend it!

In reply opener Ross Suri was in devastating form as he collected his first ever senior 5-wicket haul. Ross took 5 wickets for 32 runs from 12 overs, and with a little luck it could have been 6! Keeper Dominic Bennett took a catch from the bowling of Ross & Australian Shane McNamara took a catch from the bowling of Jon Best. North Leeds were quickly reduced to 38 runs for the loss of 5 wickets. Opener Jon Best (2-45) & skipper Neil Spragg (2-14) chipped in with 2 wickets apiece, but couple of dropped catches seemed as though it would allow North Leeds would sneak an undeserved draw. After top-scoring with the bat & being awarded 2 fielding points, it took Mark Taylor just 4 deliveries to claim the final wicket without conceding any runs. North Leeds were all out for 130 runs from 47.4 overs. Steeton won by 85 runs and the 6 points they collect mean that the strong start to the season continues. Steeton are now top of division 2 – 4 points clear of 2nd placed Ben Rhydding, who they play next week.

Ben Rhydding 153 a/o in 42.6 overs

J Wright 0, R Bolton 12, C Swallow 77*, R Oldham 2, R Miller 40, N Smith 2, C Smith 0, F Hamilton 2, A Jennings 0, A Miller 2, S Delaney 1, Extras 15
J Best 11.2-2-41-4, R Suri 8-2-16-0, G Boulton 6-1-31-0, N Spragg 7-1-21-1, S McNamara 9-4-19-3, A Luxton 5-0-16-1

Steeton 154-2 in 40 overs

S McNamara 13, C Luxton 72, J Akrigg 54*, A Luxton 11*, Extras 3
J Wright 11-3-46-2, S Delaney 6-0-19-0, N Smith 10-3-40-0, A Jennings 4-2-8-0, A Miller 4-0-8-0, F Hamilton 3-0-10-0

An exciting fixture as league leaders Steeton took on 2nd placed Ben Rhydding. Batting first Ben Rhydding’s top-order were blitzed by opener Jon Best and were quickly reduced to 22 runs with 3 wickets down. Jon finished with great figures of 4 wickets for 41 runs from 11.2 overs, with catches by skipper Neil Spragg, Mark Taylor, keeper Dominic Bennett & John Akrigg. Their middle-order was then blown away by Australian Shane McNamara, who took 3 wickets for just 19 runs from 9 overs, with 2 catches by James Procter. Skipper Neil Spragg (1-21) & Andrew Luxton (1-16) took a wicket each as Neil Spragg took his second catch. The final wicket was a run-out by Andrew Luxton, as Ben Rhydding set a below par total of 153 runs all out in 46.2 overs.

Steeton’s reply got off to a bad start as Australian Shane McNamara (13) was out with the score just 27 runs. Shane’s opening partner was Chris Luxton, who went on to score a fantastic career-best 72 runs from 110 deliveries with 13 boundaries. Chris shared a 2nd wicket partnership of 108 runs with John Akrigg, who scored an unbeaten 54* runs from 96 deliveries with 3sixes & 6 fours. Andrew Luxton (11*) saw the match to a rapid conclusion as he smashed a six & a four from just 9 balls faced. Steeton had scored 154 runs for the loss of 2 wickets from 40 overs, to comfortably win by 8 wickets with 13 overs to spare. Steeton extend their lead of the 2nd division with another 6 points, and are now 9 points clear of 2nd placed Harden.

Steeton 250-6 in 30 overs

S McNamara 104, C Luxton 12, J Akrigg 55, A Luxton 0, N Spragg 44*, M Taylor 20, J Best 0, G Boulton 7*, Extras 8
S Ijaz 6-0-36-2, D Robertson 6-1-29-1, E Brown 5-0-56-0, G Gamble 4-0-52-0, C Spivey 6-0-44-1, P Hall 3-0-30-1

Olicanian 149-8 in 30 overs

E Brown 26, M Webb 0, D Robertson 0, J Hudson 69, P Hall 31, D Britton 2, M Warrell 10, B Brearley 1, G Gamble 7*, Extras 3
J Best 5-0-32-1, R Suri 6-1-21-2, M Taylor 6-0-31-0, G Boulton 5-0-29-0, S McNamara 3-1-14-1, A Luxton 3-0-15-2, J Procter 1-0-2-0, C Luxton 1-0-2-1

Early rain reduced this fixture to a 30 overs per side match, and Steeton lost the toss and were asked to bat first. Chris Luxton (12) was the first man out with the score on 40 runs scored from 8 overs. Australian Shane McNamara smashed an incredible 7 sixes & 7 fours as he registered his 2nd century – his 104 runs coming from just 69 deliveries. Shane shared a 128-run 2nd wicket partnership scored at over 9 runs per over with John Akrigg, who was also in the six-hitting mood. John scored 55 runs from 41 deliveries with 5 sixes & 3 fours. Skipper Neil Spragg faced 26 balls and scored an unbeaten 44* runs with 3 sixes & 2 fours, and shared a quickfire 45-run 5th wicket stand with Mark Taylor (20). In their 30 overs Steeton had scored a mammoth 250 runs for the loss of 6 wickets – an outstanding total considering it included both a ‘diamond duck’ & a ‘golden duck’. Steeton had hit a total of 16 sixes & 17 fours, so 164 runs had been scored in boundaries. With Olicanian needing to score at almost 8½ runs per over this contest was all but over by the tea interval.

With the Olicanian reply on 12 runs, a double wicket maiden in the 2nd over by Ross Suri (2-21) had Olicanian reeling. Both of Ross’ wickets were well caught in the gully by Mark Taylor. Leg-spinner Andrew Luxton (2-15) also collected 2 wickets, courtesy of a stumping by keeper Dominic Bennett, and a diving catch by Australian Shane McNamara. John Akrigg took 2 well judged catches on the boundary: one from the bowling of Jon Best (1-32) & one from the bowling of Chris Luxton (1-3). James Procter had a direct hit to run out one batsman, and the other wicket was clean bowled by Shane McNamara (1-14). The last 10 overs of the Olicanian innings was immaterial as the result was beyond any doubt, and they finished with 149 runs for the loss of 8 wickets in their 30 overs – still 101 runs short of the Steeton target. Steeton progress to the next round of the Waddilove Cup where they will play Otley on 12th June.

Olicanian 232-6 in 50 overs

A Long 13, W Driver 65, N Driver 32, E Brown 62*, J Hudson 5, D Robertson 1, D Britton 2, M Webb 36*, Extras 16
J Best 7-0-38-0, R Suri 6-1-22-1, G Boulton 19-4-85-3, S McNamara 10-1-39-1, N Spragg 4-1-9-0, J Taylor 4-0-30-1

Steeton 175-7 in 50 overs

S McNamara 26, J Procter 29, J Akrigg 16, D Robinson 31, N Spragg 51*, M Taylor 0, J Best 3, J Taylor 0, G Boulton 11*, Extras 8
C Spivey 21-4-73-2, S Ijaz 11-3-26-0, E Brown 14-1-52-4, D Robertson 4-0-21-0

Steeton had a losing draw (2-4) at home to Olicanian. Batting first Olicanian set a good total of 232 runs for 6 wickets in their 50 overs, with Driver (65) & Brown (62*) making major contributions. Gary Boulton was the most successful bowler with 3 wickets for 85 runs from 19 overs, courtesy of catches by Australian Shane McNamara & Jon Best and a stumping by keeper Dominic Bennett. John Akrigg also took a catch from the bowling of Shane McNamara (1-39). The other successful bowlers were Ross Suri (1-22) & Jonathan Taylor (1-30).

After an opening stand of 39 runs Australian Shane McNamara was the first batsman out having scored 26 runs from 51 deliveries with 4 fours. At No3 John Akrigg (16) was next wicket to fall – run out by an agile pick-up & direct hit throw. Opener James Procter was the third wicket, having scored 29 runs from 87 deliveries with 5 fours. Promoted from the 2nd XI, David Robinson (31) shared an excellent 55-run 4th wicket partnership with skipper Neil Spragg (51*). David scored his 31 runs from just 39 deliveries with 1 six & 4 fours & Neil went on to score a controlled half-century; his unbeaten 51* runs coming from 68 deliveries with 1 six & 4 fours. After David Robinson was caught out with a thin nick to the keeper, the score was on 131 runs for 4 wickets, and skipper Neil Spragg watched from the other end as 3 quick wickets tumbled and Steeton were reduced to 142 runs for 7 wickets. Having lost too many wickets to launch a serious assault on the Olicanian target, survival became the priority. The experienced pairing of Neil with Gary Boulton (11*) saw Steeton carefully past the ¾ total of 174 runs with a 33-run unbroken 8th wicket stand. Steeton had scored 175 runs for the loss of 7 wickets in their 50 overs, and so collect 2 points from a losing draw. Steeton are now 6 points clear of Ben Rhydding at the top of division 2.

Riddlesden 144-4 in 20 overs

Steeton 148-3 in 16.4 overs

Let the slogfest commence! Steeton’s defence of their Keighley T20 Cup began with  home fixture against Riddlesden. Batting first Riddlesden batted well and set a competitive score of 144 runs for the loss of 4 wickets in their 20 overs. Australian Shane McNamara (1-20) took a single wicket courtesy of a catch by skipper Mark Taylor; Adam Hardwick (1-26) clean bowled a batsman; and Jake Hill (1-8) took a wicket courtesy of a smart stumping by keeper Dominic Bennett. The other wicket to fall was a run out by Adam Hardwick.

Steeton’s reply was led by skipper Mark Taylor, who smashed 63 runs with 11 fours. The victory was completed by Australian Shane McNamara with an unbeaten 29* runs, with 1 six & 3 fours & Adam Hardwick with an unbeaten 20* runs, with 1 six & 2 fours. Steeton had scored 148 runs for the loss of 3 wickets in just 16.4 overs. Steeton progress through to the next round with a 7 wicket victory and 20 balls to spare.

Menston 226-9 in 50 overs

N Thornton 0, I Thomas 0, A Campion 57, J Storey 73, A Morgan 9, C Harris 7, C Baldwin 19, K Smith 27, R Robinson 9*, R Taylor 6, C Dracup 0*, Extras 19
J Best 14-1-67-4, R Suri 4-2-13-1, S McNamara 4-0-19-0, A Luxton 8-0-35-0, G Boulton 15-0-61-3, A Hardwick 5-1-22-1

Steeton 228-5 in 39.5 overs

S McNamara 43, C Luxton 5, J Akrigg 88, A Luxton 22, N Spragg 28*, M Taylor 28, A Hardwick 4*, Extras 10
C Baldwin 5-0-31-0, R Taylor 14.5-1-71-2, J Storey 12-3-56-2, C Dracup 5-0-39-0, K Smith 3-0-25-1

Steeton returned to winning ways with a convincing victory at Menston. Batting first Menston were 2 wickets down for just 9 runs, but Steeton’s opening bowler Ross Suri (1-13) limped off to visit A&E with strained knee ligaments after 4 overs – his wicket was caught by skipper Neil Spragg. Jon Best was the pick of the bowlers, with 4 wickets for 67 runs from 14 overs, courtesy of 3 catches by John Akrigg, who was awarded a fielding point. Gary Boulton took 3 wickets for 61 runs from 15 overs, with catches by Shane McNamara & Jon Best. Menston’s top-scorer was Storey (73), who became Shane McNamara 2nd catch from the bowling of spinner Adam Hardwick (1-22). After their 50 overs Menston had scored 226 runs for the loss of 9 wickets in their 50 overs.

After losing Chris Luxton (5) with the score on 6 runs, Steeton’s reply was based a solid 78-run 2nd wicket partnership between Australian Shane McNamara (43) & John Akrigg (88). Shane’s 43 runs came from 49 deliveries with 7 boundaries. John was in great form as he smashed 6 sixes & 9 fours as he scored his 88 runs from 88 balls faced. John went on to share a 3rd wicket stand of 75 runs with Andrew Luxton (22). Skipper Neil Spragg scored an unbeaten 28* runs from 20 deliveries with 6 boundaries and vice-skipper Mark Taylor also scored 28 runs from 19 deliveries with 1 six & 5 fours. Steeton had raced to the pass the Menston target – scoring 228 runs for the loss of 5 wickets in just 39.5 overs. Steeton win by 5 wicket with 10 overs to spare and collect all 6 points from this fixture, which consolidates their position as clear league leaders.

Steeton 282-6 in 50 overs

S McNamara 34, C Luxton 139, J Akrigg 63, A Luxton 0, N Spragg 0, M Taylor 22, A Hardwick 7*, J Best 10*, Extras 7
M Baxendall 14-0-75-0, C Wiles 14-2-80-4, D Girling 10-1-47-1, S Bridson 5-0-23-0, C Pitt 4-0-35-0, J Corcaran 3-0-17-0

Knaresborough 150-6 in 50 overs

S Carey 50, R Geary 13, C Mow 13, P Barnes 9, D Girling 0, C Pitt 12, G Dodds 31*, J Corcaran 13*, Extras 6
J Best 15-2-58-3, R Suri 9-1-23-2, G Boulton 8-2-24-0, A Hardwick 3-0-15-0, A Luxton 3-1-4-1, N Spragg 4-1-10-0, S McNamara 4-2-11-0, M Taylor 3-0-3-0, C Luxton 1-1-0-0

Steeton dominated this match against Knaresborough, but had to settle for a 5-1 winning draw. Batting first the highlight of the Steeton innings was undoubtedly Chris Luxton’s maiden century, brought up in style with a great straight six. Chris scored a fantastic 139 runs from 126 deliveries with 4 sixes & 14 fours. Chris shared an opening partnership of 77 runs with Australian Shane McNamara, who contributed 34 runs from 61 deliveries with 4 boundaries. Chris went on to share an even better 119-run 2nd wicket stand with John Akrigg, who contributed an excellent 63 runs scored from 67 deliveries with 1 six & 10 fours. Steeton lost 3 wickets in a single over & 196 for 1 quickly became 196 runs for 4 wickets…and a projected score of 300+ was downsized. Chris was still there and he put on 67 runs for the 5th wicket with Mark Taylor (22) before Chris was run out by a direct hit throw. Jon Best weighed in with 10* runs as Steeton finished on a formidable 282 runs for the loss of 6 wickets in their 50 overs.

In reply Knaresborough were teetering at 38 runs for the loss of 2 wickets, both falling LBW to opening bowler Ross Suri (2-23). The next 3 wickets all fell to the pace of Jon Best (3-58 from 15 overs), courtesy of 2 catches by keeper Dominic Bennett and a well-judged catch in the gully by Gary Boulton. When Andrew Luxton (1-4) nipped out Knaresborough’s top-scorer Carey (50) all ambition of even reaching the 212-run ¾ target was abandoned and survival became their sole priority. Survive they did and despite Steeton trying 9 different bowlers Knaresborough finished with 150 runs for the loss of 6 wickets in their 50 overs. Although a few difficult chances were not taken, overall Steeton’s fielding was excellent, and Adam Hardwick & Shane McNamara were each awarded a fielding point. Steeton collect 5 points from a winning draw in a match that they thoroughly dominated from start to finish.

Steeton 205 a/o in 47.1 overs

S McNamara 64, D Robinson 18, J Akrigg 32, N Spragg 13, M Taylor 11, A Hardwick 0, J Best 29, G Boulton 8, J Jordan 8, D Bennett 3*, R Suri 4, Extras 15
S Wood 16-2-70-2, J Bailey 3-0-22-0, A Bailey 14.1-3-53-3, B McGonigall 6-1-16-1, J MacKenzie 8-0-36-2

Harden 84 a/o in 36.1 overs

A Wear 0, M Portlock 23, J MacKenzie 2, T Stordy 6, M Beckett 19, S Wood 0, A Bailey 7, S Gardner 0, J Bailey 7, R Wood 4, B McGonigall 0, Extras 16
J Best 9.1-4-14-2, R Suri 6-1-18-2, G Boulton 11-4-27-2, N Spragg 9-6-17-3, M Taylor 1-1-0-1

Steeton beat Harden by 121 runs. Batting first Steeton had a solid 39-run opening partnership between Australian Shane McNamara (64) & David Robinson (18), followed by an even better 2nd wicket partnership of 64 runs with John Akrigg (32). Shane scored his 64 runs from 93 deliveries with 2 sixes & 6 fours, and John Akrigg scored his 32 runs from 47 runs with 2 sixes & 4 fours. Skipper Neil Spragg weighed in with 13 runs & his vice-captain Mark Taylor scored 11 runs. Jon Best hit 1 six & 2 fours as he scored 29 runs from 43 deliveries as Steeton closed with 205 runs all out in 47.1 overs. At the tea interval Steeton knew they had set an excellent target on a difficult pitch.

In reply Steeton had Harden reeling at 17 runs with 3 wickets down after 10 overs. Opener Ross Suri was in great for taking 2 wickets for 18 runs in 6 overs. There was also excellent bowling spells and 2 wickets apiece for Jon Best (2-14 from 9.1 overs) & Gary Bouton (2-27 from 11 overs). However the pick of the bowlers was skipper Neil Spragg, who took 3 wickets for just 17 runs from 9 overs. The other wicket fell to Mark Taylor, who bowled just 1 over, which was a wicket maiden. Steeton’s catching was fantastic with 9 of the 10 wickets falling to catches. Keeper Dominic Bennett added a further 2 catches to his season’s tally of 12 victims; and there were 2 catches each for Neil Spragg, David Robinson & Adam Hardwick, with Shane McNamara taking the other catch. Harden were all out for 84 runs in 36.1 overs, meaning Steeton won by a massive 121 runs & leave Cuckoo’s Nest with all 6 points on  offer. As we approach the half-way point of the league season Steeton are 7 points clear of Ben Rhydding at the top of division 2.

Otley 177 a/o in 37.2 overs

G Huntley 0, J Hughes 15, S Smith 21, M OGrady 30, N Benton 49, A Rhodes 39, R Halloran 8, P Nicholson 6, J Brough 4, B Lister 0*, S Dobson 2, Extras 3
J Best 7-2-29-3, R Suri 3-0-23-0, G Boulton 6-0-36-0, N Spragg 6-1-20-1, A Luxton 4-0-33-0, S McNamara 6-1-19-3, M Taylor 5.2-0-16-3

Steeton 181-6 in 41.2 overs

S McNamara 0, C Luxton 2, J Akrigg 24, A Luxton 52, N Spragg 1, M Taylor 8, A Hardwick 60*, J Best 19*, Extras 15
B Lister 9-4-21-2, S Dobson 5.2-0-31-1, N Benton 9-0-53-3, R Holloran 4-0-15-0, A Rhodes 8-1-36-0, J Brough 6-1-19-0

Steeton progress in the Waddilove Cup – knocking out 1st division opposition Otley. Batting first Otley struggled against the pace of Jon Best, who took 3 wickets for 29 runs from 7 overs and reduced Otley to 46 runs with 3 wickets down. A 4th wicket stand of 66 runs was broken by skipper Neil Spragg (1-20). The rest of the Otley batsmen were polished off by Australian Shane McNamara, who took 3 wickets for 19 runs from 6 overs and Mark Taylor, who also took 3 wickets for 16 runs from 5.2 overs. Having been 127 runs for 4 wickets after 25 overs, Otley were all out for 177 runs in 37.2 overs. Keeper Dominic Bennett took 3 catches and there was a catch each for Andrew Luxton & John Akrigg. At the tea interval Steeton knew they were in a good position, but they would have to bat well against 1st division bowlers.

In reply Steeton were 2 wickets down with only 7 runs on the board. John Akrigg weighed in with 24 runs, but Steeton were further reduced to 56 runs with 5 wickets down. Andrew Luxton  hit 1 six & 7 fours as he scored 52 runs, and shared a great 84-run 6th wicket partnership with Adam Hardwick, who top-scored with a fantastic unbeaten 60* runs, including 1 six & 11 fours. Adam went on to share a match winning unbroken 7th wicket stand of 41 runs with Jon Best, who contributed 19* runs not out. Steeton scored 181 runs for the loss of 6 wickets in 41.2 overs, to win by 4 wickets with 3 overs to spare.

Pool 118-7 in 50 overs

S Bent 48, J Anslow 0, R Henry 27, C Braddock 1, B Loveluck 34, N Coleman 29*, D Singleton 12, W Carter 2, S Wilkinson 28*, Extras 7
J Best 15-5-30-3, R Suri 5-2-26-0, G Boulton 8-0-41-1, A Hardwick 12-1-53-1, S McNamara 10-1-33-2

Steeton 191-1 in 41.5 overs

S McNamara 40, C Luxton 67*, J Akrigg 65*, Extras 19
C Braddock 9-1-30-1, D Amos 11-2-28-0, N Naylor 3-1-19-0, S Wilkinson 8-2-33-1, R Henry 5.5-1-44-0, N Coleman 5-0-24-0

For the 2nd successive weekend Steeton have gained maximum points from all the weekend matches. In a commanding display our 1st XI beat Pool by 9 wickets. Batting first Pool scored 188 runs for the loss of 7 wickets in their 50 overs. The pick of the bowlers was paceman Jon Best, who collected 3 wickets for just 30 runs from 15 overs, with a return catch & also catches by keeper Dominic Bennett & Mark Taylor. There was a single wicket each for Gary Boulton (1-41) courtesy of a catch by David Robinson & Adam Hardwick (1-53) courtesy of a catch by John Akrigg. The other bowler to take any wickets was Australian Shane McNamara, who took 2 wickets for 33 runs from 10 overs, with catches by Ross Suri & a second catch for John Akrigg.

Steeton reply progressed steadily to 74 runs, before Australian Shane McNamara was caught & bowled for 40 runs. Shane scored his 40 runs from 69 deliveries with 7 boundaries, but has the dubious distinction of being the only Steeton batsman dismissed this weekend! Shane’s opening partner was the in-form Chris Luxton, who top-scored with an unbeaten 67* runs, scored from 121 deliveries with 1 six & 11 fours. Chris shared an unbroken, match-winning second wicket partnership of 117 runs with John Akrigg, who despite heading a bouncer, scored an unbeaten 65* runs from 67 deliveries with 5 sixes & 7 fours. Steeton scored 191 runs for the loss of 1 wicket in 41.5 overs, to win by 9 wickets with 8 overs to spare, and collect all 6 points on offer. At the halfway point of the season Steeton are league leaders by 7 points from Ben Rhydding.

Steeton 295-5 in 50 overs

S McNamara 16, C Luxton 21, J Akrigg 141, D Robinson 25, N Spragg 10, M Tayor 5*, A Hardwick 6*, Extras 26
B Waller 12-3-52-1, T Simpson 4-0-29-0, C Coates 11-2-47-1, G Lee 13-1-67-2, A Alred 10-0-86-1

Calverley 206-6 in 50 overs

S Curry 22, I Mirza 28, C West 52, G Lee 57*, S Bashir 0, B Waller 4, S Driscoll 4, C Coates 33*, Extras 6
J Best 25-5-60-2, M Taylor 7-0-47-0, A Hardwick 3-0-22-0, S McNamara 15-1-75-4

Batting first Steeton scored a mammoth 295 runs for the loss of 5 wickets in their 50 overs…the highlight being John Akrigg’s fantastic 141 runs from 135 deliveries with 5 straight sixes & 15 fours. Steeton were off to a solid start, but Australian Shane McNamara (16) & Chris Luxton (21) were both back in the pavilion with the score on 51 runs. John then shared a great 3rd wicket partnership of 98 runs with David Robinson (25). Skipper Neil Spragg weighed in with 10 runs, before John shared another impressive 5th wicket stand of 85 runs in 9 overs with Mark Taylor, who contributed a rapid unbeaten 50* runs from 36 deliveries with 4 fours. Mark Taylor went on to share an unbroken 6th wicket partnership of 37 runs from just 16 balls with Adam Hardwick (6*). At the tea interval Steeton knew that they had set an impressive target,  but on a good track it would be difficult to force an outright win.

In reply for 30 overs Calverley were matching Steeton’s run-rate, but they could not accelerate as Steeton had done, and finished with 206 runs for the loss of 6 wickets in their 50 overs – 16 runs short of the 222-run ¾ score. The pick of the bowlers was Australian Shane McNamara, who took 4 wickets for 75 runs from 15 overs, with catches by keeper Dominic Bennett, Mark Taylor & Jon Best. Opener Jon Best bowled all 25 overs from one-end and finished with 2 wickets for 60 runs, with catches by Neil Spragg & John Akrigg. In this precursor to tomorrow’s Waddilove quarter-final clash, Steeton leave Victoria park with 5 points from a convincing winning draw.

Full Scorecard

Calverley 239-7 in 45 overs

S Curry 28, I Mirza 72, C West 33, G Lee 30, S Bashir 13, B Waller 31, A Alred 6, M Ward 2*, C Coates 2*, Extras 21
J Best 9-0-49-2, C Lowe 9-2-25-0, N Spragg 9-2-29-1, A Hardwick 6-0-39-0, S McNamara 9-0-61-2, D Robinson 3-0-15-1

Steeton 241-4 in 42.5 overs

C Luxton 36, S McNamara 107*, J Akrigg 9, D Robinson 21, N Spragg 37, A Hardwick 24*, Extras 7
B Waller 9-0-57-0, T Westerman 8-0-33-0, C Coates 5-0-28-1, G Lee 9-0-43-1, T Simpson 4.5-1-37-1, A Alred 4-0-24-1, S Bashir 3-0-12-0

Batting first Calverley scored 239 runs for the loss of 7 wickets in their 45 overs. An opening stand of 50 runs was broken by skipper Neil Spragg (1-29 from 9 overs), courtesy of a catch by Callum Lowe. Calverley’s top-score Mirza (72) was clean-bowled by David Robinson (1-15 from 3 overs). There were 2 wickets apiece for opener Jon Best (2-49 from 9 overs) with a stumping and a catch by keeper Dominic Bennett; and Australian Shane McNamara (2-61 from 9 overs) with a return catch from his own bowling and a catch by Chris Karakiozakis. One of the Calverley batsmen was also run out by keeper Dominic Bennett.

Steeton’s reply had progressed to 77 runs before Chris Luxton (36) was the first man out having faced 47 deliveries and hit 1 six & 4 fours for his 36 runs. Chris’s opening partner was Australian Shane McNamara, who went on to complete a fabulous unbeaten century. Shane’s 107* runs not out came from 111 deliveries with 1 six & 12 fours. After John Akrigg departed for 9 runs, Shane shared a 51-run 3rd wicket partnership with David Robinson, who contributed 21 runs from 29 deliveries with 4 boundaries. Shane then went on to share a 62-run 4th wicket stand with  his skipper Neil Spragg, who score 37 runs from exactly 37 balls faced with 6 fours. Finally Shane shared an unbroken match-winning 5th wicket partnership of 29 runs with Adam Hardwick, who contributed 24 of those runs from just 16 deliveries with 1 six & 3 fours. Steeton had scored 241 runs for the loss of 4 wickets in 42.5 overs, to register an impressive victory by 6 wickets with 2 overs to spare. Steeton now progress to the semi-final of the Waddilove Cup, where they travel to Follifoot on 17th July.

Bolton Villas 269-5 in 50 overs

S Wilson 77, N Kettle 29, S Shuttleworth 52*, A Clarke 2, L Margerison 26, U Yaqoob 34, M Clarke 18*, Extras 31
J Best 16-3-58-2, R Suri 7-2-20-0, A Hardwick 5-0-25-0, S McNamara 5-1-25-0, N Spragg 11-1-70-0, A Luxton 6-0-48-3

Steeton 244-7 in 50 overs

S McNamara 24, C Luxton 0, J Akrigg 83, A Luxton 0, D Robinson 14, N Spragg 73*, A Hardwick 6, J Best 13, G Boulton 14*, Extras 17
U Yaqoob 20-4-73-3, S Lawrence 14-0-94-1, M Oldfield 16-2-65-3

Match report will appear here.

Steeton 103-7 in 20 overs

C Luxton 2, S McNamara 27, J Akrigg 36, N Spragg 1, A Luxton 2, A Hardwick 2, J Best 1, D Robinson 18*, G Boulton 8*, Extras 6
Z Mahmood 10-0-55-1, M Scott 10-0-43-5

Tong Park 99-7 in 20 overs

S Mir 4, J Wilkinson 6, D Bailey 6, F Maqsood 11, G Wilkinson 8, Z Mahmood 11, A Amir 18*, D Groom 24, A Taylor 6*, Extras 5
J Best 10-0-38-4, R Suri 7-0-37-2, N Spragg 3-0-22-1

Match report will appear here.

Steeton 148-9 in 45 overs

S McNamara 42, C Luxton 9, J Akrigg 32, D Robinson 9, A Luxton 0, N Spragg 21, A Hardwick 0, J Best 0, G Boulton 12, D Bennett 11*, R Suri 0*, Extras 12
G Lambert 9-1-29-0, J Benbow 9-4-24-1, R Procter 8-2-26-2, A Fox 9-3-18-3, N Louden 9-0-39-3, J Pickles 1-0-3-0

Follifoot 149-4 in 37.4 overs

N Robinson 16, J Ford 54*, A Fox 11, J Pickles 34, J benbow 12, P Angove 11*, Extras 11
J Best 9-3-24-2, R Suri 9-0-27-0, A Luxton 4-1-10-0, G Boulton 3-0-18-0, S McNamara 3-0-24-0, N Spragg 7-3-21-2, A Hardwick 2.4-0-18-0

Match report will appear here.

Upper Wharfedale 222 a/o in 48.5 overs

D Eggleton 8, A Barton 27, A Foulds 11, J Freebury 45, J Starkey 17, T Stead 48, M Thomas 21, S Pearson 0, D Parkinson 21*, J Gill 6, D Wynn 11, Extras 7
R Suri 8-2-48-0, N Spragg 15-3-45-4, G Boulton 11-1-55-3, S McNamara 6-0-29-1, A Luxton 4-0-20-1, M Taylor 4.5-1-19-1

Steeton 224-5 in 49.1 overs

S McNamara 52, D Robinson 18, J Akrigg 1, A Luxton 15, N Spragg 60*, C Luxton 22, M Taylor 42*, Extras 14
S Pearson 22-4-82-2, J Gill 15-3-61-2, D Eggleton 5-0-16-0, A Barton 4.1-0-40-1, D Wynn 3-0-14-0

Playing a side that included 4 ex-Steeton players, Steeton current 1st XI were victorious by 5 wickets. Batting first Upper Wharfedale scored 222 runs all out in 48.5 overs. Skipper Neil Spragg bowled an excellent opening blast and finished with great figures of 4 wickets for 45 runs from 15 overs. With catches by Neil Spragg & John Akrigg, Gary Boulton collected 3 wickets for 55 runs from 11 overs. There was a single wicket each for Mark Taylor (1-19), Australian Shane McNamara (1-29) & leg-spinner Andrew Luxton (20), courtesy of a smart stumping by keeper Dominic Bennett. Ex-Steeton player Tom Stead top-scored for Upper Wharfedale with 48 runs.

Steeton’s reply was a controlled response, built on a 37-run opening partnership between Shane McNamara, who scored 52 runs from 101 deliveries with 9 boundaries; and David Robinson, who contributed 18 runs. Andrew Luxton chipped in with 15 runs before Neil Spragg played a captain’s inning to see his side home. Neil scored an unbeaten 60* runs from 75 deliveries with 9 fours and a sweet six to complete the victory. Neil shared a 42-run 5th wicket stand with Chris Luxton, who smashed 5 fours as he registered 22 runs from just 21 balls faced. Neil then went on to share an unbroken 6th wicket partnership of 75 runs with his vice-captain Mark Taylor, who scored an unbeaten 42* runs from just 31 deliveries with 7 fours. Steeton scored 224 runs for the loss of 5 wickets in 49.1 overs, to win by 5 wickets and collect another 6 points in what is fast becoming a memorable season for Steeton. Skipper Neil Spragg took 4 wickets, a catch & scored 60 runs not out including hitting a six to win the match – a great day for captain fantastic!.

North Leeds 139 a/o in 43 overs

T Hollis 7, L Johnson 7, T Chana 23, M Kellaway 0, R Winter 62, P Khan 0, B Singleton 12, G Hollis 0, J Ridyard 14, U Khawaja 2, J Morley 1*, Extras 11
J Best 12-5-27-2, R Suri 5-2-6-0, N Spragg 5-2-6-1, G Boulton 11-2-50-1, A Luxton 10-1-40-6

Steeton 141-1 in 29.2 overs

S McNamara 68*, D Robinson 42, J Akrigg 21*, Extras 10
P Khan 6-0-22-0, B Singleton 8.2-1-30-1, J Ridyard 8-0-37-0, T Chana 4-0-25-0, J Morley 3-0-20-0

Steeton’s bowling was too good for North Leeds, who were all out for just 139 runs in 43 overs. Leg-spinner Andrew Luxton took his first 6-wicket haul – finishing with a fantastic 6 wickets for 40 runs from 10 overs. Opener Jon Best took 2 wickets for 27 runs from 12 overs, and there was a single wicket each for skipper Neil Spragg (1-8) & Gary Boulton (1-50). The bowlers were well supported in the field, with 9 of the 10 wickets falling to catches. Keeper Dominic Bennett took 4 catches and there was a single catch each for Chris Luxton, Neil Spragg, Jon Best, Gary Boulton & a return catch from his own bowling for Andrew Luxton.

Chasing a small total can sometimes prove quite a tricky prospect, but Steeton’s opening partnership of 119 runs definitely put the result of this match beyond doubt. David Robinson was the only man out as he was caught for 42 runs scored from 86 deliveries with 7 boundaries. David’s opening partner was Australian Shane McNamara, who went on to finish with an unbeaten 68* runs from 86 deliveries with 2 sixes & 8 fours. When John Akrigg strode to the crease it was clear he was in a hurry…10 minutes & 8 balls later he was walking back with 21* runs not out to his name and the match won having smashed 5 fours. Steeton had scored 141 runs for the loss of 1 wicket in 29.2 overs. Steeton won by 9 wickets with 27 overs to spare, and leave the Homestead with all 6 points to maintain their position 10 points clear at the top of division 2.

Steeton 186-5 in 35 overs

S McNamara 5, D Robinson 12, C Luxton 6, N Spragg 23, A Luxton 1, M Taylor 98*, J Best 18, J Jordan 10*, Extras 13
J Wright 18-1-99-1, S Delaney 16-3-61-4, N Smith 1-0-17-1

Ben Rhydding 141-4 in 29 overs

F Hamilton 6, M Booth 9, C Swallow 60*, R Oldham 22, J Wright 11, R Bolton 28*, Extras 5
J Best 8-2-29-2, R Suri 6-0-29-0, G Boulton 8-0-56-1, N Spragg 4-0-8-1, M Taylor 2-0-10-0, D Robinson 1-0-8-0

After a rain-delayed start Steeton batted first and collapsed to 28 runs for the loss of 4 wickets. Skipper Neil Spragg (23) shared an innings-steadying 5th wicket stand of 56 runs with vice-captain Mark Taylor (98*).  Neil hit 4 fours and faced 32 deliveries for his 23 runs; Mark Taylor scored his magnificent unbeaten 98* runs from just 65 deliveries & hit 1 six & 14 fours. Mark shared a great 69-run 6th wicket stand with Jon Best (18)…followed by adding 33 runs for the unbroken 7th wicket partnership with James Jordan (10*). Steeton’s poor start meant that when they were in no position to declare at the correct time to make this an even match. They batted on until they were sure that Ban Rhydding stood little chance of passing their score and so catch them up in the league. Steeton scored 186 runs for the loss of 6 wickets in 35 overs.

Steeton’s only hope was to dismiss Ben Rhydding within the 29 overs that they had left them. A fine opening blast from Jon Best (2-29) had Ben Rhydding wobbling at 22 runs with 2 wickets down, with keeper Dominic Bennett taking a catch. Fine batting from Swallow (60*) ensured Steeton would not manage an outright victory. There was a single wicket each for skipper Neil Spragg (1-8) courtesy of a catch by Mark Taylor, and Gary Boulton (1-56) courtesy of a catch by James Jordan. In reply Ben Rhydding scored 141 runs for 4 wickets in 29 overs. Since in this rain effected match Steeton batted more overs than Ben Rhydding they both finished with a single point each. Steeton maintain their 11-point lead at the top of the division with now only 5 matches to go.

Olicanian 137 a/o in 43 overs

A Long 5, W Driver 6, C Wheeler 1, E Brown 4, J Hudson 2, A Browne 34, J Harrison 0, D Robertson 57, D Britton 12*, P Burns 4, S Ijaz 1, Extras 11
J Best 19-6-52-4, R Suri 11-3-31-3, G Boulton 10-0-44-3, A Luxton 3-0-8-0

Steeton 138-6 in 45.5 overs

S McNamara 60, D Robinson 6, J Akrigg 1, N Spragg 35*, A Luxton 0, C Luxton 6, J Best 5, J Jordan 8*, Extras 17
S Ijaz 14-4-39-2, E Brown 13.5-4-38-0, D Robertson 4-0-19-0, C Wheeler 14-4-33-4

Batting first Olicanian were all out for 137 runs in 43 overs. The pick of the bowlers was opener Jon Best, who collected 4 wickets for 52 runs from 19 overs, with catches by keeper Dominic Bennett & John Akrigg. Both Olicanian openers were removed by Ross Suri, who finished with 3 wickets (all clean bowled) for 31 runs from 11 overs. Olicanian were 6 wickets down with just 39 runs scored, but good late batting by Robertson (57) prevented an embarrassing total. The Olicanian tail was mopped up by Gary Boulton, who took 3 wickets for 44 runs from 10 overs, with catches by Chris Luxton & Jon Best as well as a stumping by Dominic Bennett.

In reply Steeton were led by Australian Shane McNamara (60), who was out when the total was on 79 runs having scored 60 of them himself. When Shane was out it was skipper Neil Spragg (35*) who took up the scoring mantle as he saw Steeton notch-up the remaining 59 runs of which he scored an unbeaten 35* runs. Steeton had knocked off the total for the loss of 6 wickets – scoring 138 runs in 45.5 overs. A 4-wicket victory with 11 overs to spare and another valuable 6 points to Steeton.

Steeton 234-9 in 50 overs

S McNamara 60, D Robinson 58, J Akrigg 6, N Spragg 22, C Luxton 8, J Best 16, A Luxton 12, G Boulton 26, J Jordan 0, D Bennett 17*, R Suri 1*, Extras 8
R Taylor 8-2-34-0, C Baldwin 6-1-27-0, J Storey 19-1-58-5, C Dracup 17-1-109-4

Menston 185-7 in 50 overs

I Thomas 41, N Thornton 10, A Campion 74, J Storey 19, A Morgan 7, K Smith 4, C Baldwin 14, C Harris 4*, R Robinson 0*, Extras 12
J Best 13-2-59-1, R Suri 14-2-45-5, N Spragg 12-2-34-1, G Boulton 8-4-23-0, A Luxton 3-0-18-0

Steeton had a 4-2 winning draw at home against Menston. Batting first Steeton registered an excellent 100-run opening partnership before Australian Shane McNamara was the first man out having scored 60 runs from 74 deliveries with 3 sixes & 8 fours. Shane’s opening partner, David Robinson, also went on to register a half-century: David scored 58 runs from 103 balls faced with 7 boundaries. What followed was a number of cameo innings: skipper Neil Spragg scored 22 runs, Jon Best scored 16 runs, Andrew Luxton scored 12 runs, Gary Boulton smashed 3 sixes as he scored 26 runs, and Dominic Bennett finished with 17* runs not out as Steeton finished with 234 runs for the loss of 9 wickets in their 50 overs.

Steeton’s reply was spear-headed by Ross Suri, who clean-bowled 5 batsmen and finished with a tremendous 5 wickets for 45 runs from 14 overs – figures which may have been even better had he been allowed to bowl longer than 7-over spells. Jon Best (1-59) brought his season’s tally to 53 wickets, courtesy of a catch by Chris Luxton. Gary Boulton (1-34) took 1 wicket caught by Andrew Luxton. After their 50 overs Menston had scored 185 runs for the loss of 7 wickets: still 49 runs shy of the Steeton total, but comfortably past the 176-run ¾ target. Steeton collect 4 points from a 4-2 winning draw, which is enough to guarantee promotion to the top division.

Knaresborough 168-7 in 48.3 overs

S Carey 4, R Geary 18, C How 43, P Barnes 37, C Pitt 40*, J Corcoran 4, G How 12, S Ryan 1, Extras 9
J Best 18.3-1-69-3, R Suri 13-5-29-2, N Spragg 4-1-9-0, G Boulton 7-0-35-1, A Luxton 6-2-21-1

Steeton 44-1 in 5.4 overs

S McNamara 0, M Taylor 23*, J Akrigg 14*, Extras 7
G Whiles 3-0-11-1, S Ryan 1-0-17-0, G How 1.4-0-9-0

With 9 balls of their innings remaining Knaresborough had scored 168 runs for 7 wickets when the ‘heavens opened’. Tea was taken early, but soon there was standing water on the wicket ends. Jon Best was the pick of the bowlers with a further 3 wickets to bring his tally for the season to 56 wickets. Jon bowled 18.3 overs and took 3 wickets for 69 runs. Ross Suri continued his great form and collected 2 wickets (both clean bowled – Ross’s last 10 wickets have all been clean bowled!) for 29 runs. There was a single wicket each for Gary Boulton (1-35) & Andrew Luxton (1-21). Australian Shane McNamara, Andrew Luxton & Mark Taylor all pouched catches. When the rain stopped the pitch was dried and Knaresborough declared at the 168 runs for 7 wickets in 48.3 overs.

Steeton could only manage 44 runs for 1 wicket before further rain meant this had to be abandoned. Steeton had scored 44 runs for the loss of 1 wicket in 5.4 overs. Opening the innings Mark Taylor had scored an unbeaten 23* runs and John Akrigg had scored 14* runs not out. Both sides collect a single point each. With promotion assured, a win by 2nd placed Ben Ryhdding has brought them to within 4 points of Steeton, and means a tense last 2 matches as Steeton try to make sure they are promoted as champions.

Steeton 251-6 in 50 overs

D Robinson 7, S McNamara 73, J Akrigg 74, M Taylor 55*, N Spragg 4, C Luxton 9, A Luxton 12, D Bennett 11*, Extras 6
P Leng 13-3-32-0, J Halliday 11-3-73-3, M McGonigle 4-1-12-0, R Wear 5-0-34-0, S Wood 5-0-21-0, A Bailey 9-0-43-2, J Mackenzie 3-0-31-1

Harden 194-8 in 50 overs

R Wear 41, A Wear 21, J Mackenzie 62*, M Beckett 0, J Roper 1, S Wood 18, A Bailey 5, T Blanchard 0, P Leng 16, J Halliday 10*, Extras 20
J Best 15-5-50-1, R Suri 14-4-46-2, A Luxton 9-1-32-2, G Boulton 8-2-37-1, N Spragg 4-2-12-1

Steeton had a 4-2 winning draw at home to Harden. Batting first Steeton had a tremendous 2nd wicket partnership of 150 runs between Australian Shane McNamara (73) & top-scorer John Akrigg (74). John faced 110 deliveries & hit 14 fours for his 74 runs & Shane faced 106 deliveries & hit 9 boundaries for his 73 runs. With 1 match to go Shane has now scored 1,228 runs – the 4th most runs in a season by any Steeton 1st XI player – behind Ben Hook (1,714 runs in 1995), Matt Pinniger (1,305 runs in 1999) & Mick Wilson (1,271 runs in 1991). When an injection of runs is required, who better to have coming to the wicket than Mark Taylor? Mark faced just 38 deliveries and hit 2 sixes & 6 fours as he scored an unbeaten 55* runs. This was Mark’s 12th league innings and he has now qualified for the league averages…currently averaging 77.67 runs! Andrew Luxton chipped in with 12 runs & Dominic Bennett smashed a six as he finished with an unbeaten 11* runs as Steeton closed with 251 runs for the loss of 6 wickets in their 50 overs.

In reply Harden progressed smoothly to 67 runs before losing both openers. Leg-spinner Andrew Luxton (2-32) broke the opening partnership, and he finished with 2 wickets for 32 runs from 9 overs, with both wickets caught by keeper Dominic Bennett. Dominic finished with 3 catches to bring his season total of league victims to 28 (24 caught & 4 stumped). With a total of 36 dismissals in both league and cup matches, Dominic is now 3rd in the list of top wicket-keepers behind the prodigious Mark Hedges (44 victims in 1998 & 41 in 1993). Ross Suri continued his excellent season with a further 2 wickets for 46 runs from 14 overs. There was a single wicket each for skipper Neil Spragg (1-12), Gary Boulton (1-37) & Jon Best (1-50). With 1 match of the season still to go Jon has now taken a remarkable 57 wickets. Skipper Neil Spragg took 2 comfortable catches & John Akrigg took a sharp catch in the slips. John was also involved in the run out of one of the Harden openers with a throw to keeper Dominic Bennett to remove the bails. As Steeton pushed to secure all 6 points it was Harden’s overseas player Mackenzie (62*) who stood firm, and saw Harden safely past the ¾ score of 189 runs. Harden finished with 194 runs for the loss of 8 wickets in their 50 overs. Steeton collect 4 points from a winning draw, but a win by Ben Rhydding mean they have now moved to within just 2 points of Steeton – everything to play for in the last game of the season at Pool next week!

Pool 217-9 in 50 overs

N Coleman 5, D Singleton 0, R Henry 12, B Loveluck 16, S Bent 16, J Goldthorp 55, C Braddock 73, S Wilkinson 18, M Naylor 2, D Amos 3*, J Anslow 2*, Extras 15
J Best 16-3-61-6, R Suri 14-2-42-0, G Boulton 8-1-34-1, A Luxton 6-0-31-0, N Spragg 6-0-40-2

Steeton 152 a/o in 42.4 overs

S McNamara 48, D Robinson 5, J Akrigg 0, M Taylor 38, N Spragg 1, C Luxton 0, A Luxton 30, J Best 5, D Bennett 0, G Boulton 4, R Suri 1*, Extras 20
D Braddock 8-0-20-1, D Amos 10-2-29-4, M Naylor 5-1-30-0, S Wilkinson 12-3-40-3, B Loveluck 8.4-1-21-2

Steeton chose a bad time to register their first league loss of the season. Batting first Pool scored 217 runs for 9 wicket in their 50 overs. The pick of the bowlers was Jon Best, who took 6 wickets for 61 runs from 16 overs, bringing his season tally to 63 wickets. Skipper Neil Spragg took 2 wickets for 40 runs from 9 overs & the other wicket fell to Gary Boulton (1-34). Keeper Dominic Bennett took 2 catches to bring his season victims to 38 – 32 catches & 6 stumpings. John Akrigg took a catch in the slips & there were further catches for Ross Suri & Australian Shane McNamara.

In reply Steeton were soon reeling at 21 runs with 2 wickets down, before an excellent 59-run 3rd wicket partnership between opener Shane McNamara (48) & Mark Taylor (38). Shane scored his 48 runs from 104 deliveries with 1 six & 5 fours; and Mark scored his 38 runs from 40 deliveries with 1 six & 5 fours. At No7 Andrew Luxton scored an excellent 30 runs from 31 deliveries with 1 six & 4 fours, but Steeton’s tail collapsed and they were all out for 152 runs in 42.4 overs. Steeton lost by 65 runs, and so they are promoted to the 1st division as runners-up of the 2nd division.

Kirkstall Educational 189 a/o in 49.1 overs

Steeton 192-4 in 36 overs

The Steeton 2nd XI juggernaut is quickly into its stride with an impressive victory at Kirkstall Educational. Batting first Kirkstall lost wickets regularly, with many of their batsmen probably feeling that they had contributed to their own demise. The wickets were shared among the Steeton bowlers, with 3 wickets apiece for Adam Hardwick (3-29) & James Emmott (3-45) and 2 wickets each for opening bowlers Paul Hardwick (2-28) & Callum Lowe (2-29). Impressive bowling was supported by fine fielding, with fielders getting any part of their body (or face!) in the way to cut-off boundaries. Callum Lowe took 2 catches & earned himself a fielding point, with the other fielding point going to David Robinson, who pouched a well-judged catch on the square-leg boundary. James Jordan took a good catch at long on to dismiss the dangerous Missett (52), and there were further catches for Phil Barrett & Zach Pearson. Keeper Gabe Manthorp took a very sharp stumping from the bowling of James Emmott, as Kirkstall registered a below-par 189 runs all out in 49.1 overs.

Steeton’s dependable opener Mick Wilson limped off with knee problems, but the stand-in openers were in dominant form as they scored 142 runs before losing their first wicket – skipper Hayden Tennant was caught pulling for a great half-century. Hayden’s 66 runs came from 82 deliveries with 12 boundaries. Hayden’s opening partner David Robinson followed shortly afterwards having scored 57 runs from 83 balls faced with 11 boundaries. An unbeaten 28* runs from Adam Hardwick saw Steeton to a comfortable victory. Steeton passed the Kirkstall target with 14 overs to spare as they scored 192 runs for the loss of 4 wickets in 36 overs to win by 6 wickets and collect all 6 points.

Steeton 227 a/o in 48 overs

Adel 193-8 in 52 overs

The Steeton 2nd XI juggernaut won the toss & batted itself into a strong position, but was unable to fully capitalise and so finished with a below-par 227 runs all out in 48 overs. New skipper & opener Hayden Tennant was again in great form with his 2nd successive half-century. Hayden’s 57 runs came from 82 deliveries with 10 boundaries. Hayden shared an 83-run opening partnership with David Robinson (23). Both openers were out with the score in the 80s, but the run-scoring was continued by Chris Luxton, who scored a quick-fire 50 runs from 50 deliveries with 1 six & 6 fours. Chris shared a 45-run 3rd wicket partnership with Adam Hardwick (21) followed by an even better 4th wicket stand of 67 runs with Gabe Manthorp (31). Gabe hit 4 boundaries as he scored his 31 runs from 47 deliveries. When Chris was out the Steeton tail certainly did not ‘wag’ – adding just 27 runs for the last 5 wickets, with only Phil Barrett (13) managing double figures. At the tea interval Steeton knew they would need to bowl & field well to defend 227 runs on such a good Steeton batting track & fast outfield.

Adel raced to 28 runs without losing a wicket in there first 5 overs, before tight bowling & great fielding began to peg them back. Adel’s openers were both out, to the pace of Paul Hardwick (2-51) & the spin of Zach Pearson (1-23). James Emmott was the pick of the bowlers as he finished with a 5-wicket haul – James’s marathon 23 overs earned him 5 wickets at a cost of 73 runs. Adam Hardwick took 2 excellent catches and earned himself a fielding point. Keeper Gabe Manthorp took a rapid stumping, and there were good catches by skipper Hayden Tennant & David Robinson. Chris Luxton was awarded a fielding point. After setting off so rapidly, Adel were well restricted, but having comfortably passed the ¾ total they settled for the draw. Adel finished with 193 runs for the loss of 8 wickets in their 52 overs, and so Steeton collect 4 points from a winning draw.

Steeton 235-8 in 50 overs

Otley 169-8 in 50 overs

Steeton 2nd XI batted first & scored 235 runs for 8 wickets in their 50 overs, and finished with a 5-1 winning draw. Opening the innings skipper Hayden Tennant scored 18 runs and added 52 runs for the 2nd wicket in conjunction with top-scorer David Robinson (52). David’ 52 runs came from 69 deliveries & included 10 boundaries. Chris Luxton continued his good form hitting 9 boundaries as he faced 47 balls and finished with  41 runs. When some cheap wickets tumbled in the middle order Julian Higginson steadied the mini-collapse with 35 runs scored from 71 deliveries with 5 fours. Julian added 54 runs for the 7th wicket partnership with James Emmott, who scored a sparkling 48 runs from just 51 deliveries with 1 six & 5 fours. Having just faced 18 overs of Mick Gray on a pitch that was aiding spin, Steeton were pleased with their target of 235 runs…and what’s more had their own young spinners to compete!

In reply 35 of Steeton’s overs were bowled by their talented spinners Adam Hardwick & Zach Pearson. Adam took 4 wickets for 37 runs from 17 overs & Zach also took 4 wicket for 46 runs from 18 overs. With Otley concentrating on survival Steeton protected the ¾ total of 177 runs well, and Otley finished with 169 runs for the loss of 8 wickets in their 50 overs. Skipper Hayden Tennant took 2 catches & Mick Wilson took 1 catch, but the fielding points went to David Robinson & Oliver Gledhill. Steeton collect 5 points from a 5-1 winning draw and are at this early stage are in 2nd place in the league, 1 point behind leaders Guiseley.

Green Lane 187-9 in 25 overs

Steeton 157-7 in 25 overs

Between the showers Steeton 2nd XI played Green Lane in a match shortened to 25 overs. Green Lane batted first and over 7 runs per over and finished with 187 runs for the loss of 9 wickets in their 25 overs. The pick of the Steeton bowlers was Paul Hardwick, who collected 4 wickets for 64 runs from 12 overs. James Emmott took 2 wickets, but his 5 overs conceded 51 runs – more than 10 runs per over! Zach Pearson’s economy rate was even more expensive as he took 1 wicket for 27 runs from 2 overs. The other wicket falling to Callum Lowe (1-22). Despite the wet conditions the fielders performed well with 7 catches & a run out: The catchers being James Emmott, skipper Hayden Tennant, keeper Julian Higginson, Chris Luxton, Oliver Gledhill, Paul Hardwick & Callum Lowe.

In reply Steeton had a 63-run opening partnership, but both openers were out in quick succession: Mick Wilson for 38 runs from just 34 deliveries with 8 boundaries & skipper Hayden Tennant for 20 runs from 19 deliveries with 3 boundaries. David Robinson contributed 14 runs & Julian Higginson 16 runs as Steeton were reduced to 119 for the loss of 7 wickets, and a rare defeat seemed a distinct possibility. Stability was provided by the in-form James Emmott, who scored and undefeated 40* runs from 39 deliveries with 1 six &2 fours. James shared an unbroken 8th wicket stand of 38 runs with Paul Hardwick (11*). Steeton comfortably passed the ¾ target of 141 runs, but finished 30 runs short of the Green Lane target. With 157 runs for the loss of 7 wickets from their 25 overs, Steeton collect 2 points from a (2-4) losing draw.

Upper Wharfedale 110 a/o in 33.4 overs

Steeton 112-0 in 23.3 overs

Steeton brushed aside Upper Wharfedale and eased through to the next round of the Birtwhistle Cup, with a comfortable 10 wicket victory. Callum Lowe was the pick of the bowlers with his 7 overs conceding 23 runs as he collected 3 wickets. David Robinson finished with great figures of 5 overs 2 wickets for 7 runs. There was also 2 wickets apiece for spinners Adam Hardwick (2-12) & Zach Pearson (2-31). Opener Paul Hardwick collected 1 wicket for 8 runs from 4 overs. Considering a number of difficult chances were spilled it is quite incredible that a total of 9 wickets fell to catches. Paul Hardwick took 3 catches, Keeper Julian Higginson took 2 catches and there was a single catch each for Gabe Manthorp, Zach Pearson, James Emmott, & Adam Hardwick. Upper Wharfedale had scored 110 runs all out in 33.4 overs, thanks largely to their skipper, ex-Steeton player Andrew Smith, who scored 32 runs.

Steeton’s reply was emphatic. Steeton’s openers never looked in any difficulty as they knocked off the small target without loss in just 23.3 overs. David Robinson scored an unbeaten 31* runs from 78 deliveries with 2 sixes & 4 fours; and Chris Luxton scored a majestic 69* runs not out from 63 deliveries with 3 sixes & 10 fours. Steeton win by 10 wickets with 21 overs to spare – undoubtedly emphatic! Steeton travel to Olicanian on 22nd May for the next round.

Steeton 145 a/o in 36.2 overs

North Leeds 149-4 in 29.4 overs

Steeton were all out for 145 runs in 36.2 overs and lost by 6 wickets. After Steeton were asked to bat first on a difficult track, they were quickly reduced to 6 runs with 3 wickets down, and then just 38 runs with 5 wickets down. Coming in at No7 Oliver Gledhill top-scored with 75 runs scored from 73 deliveries with 1 six & 13 fours. Oliver shared a 66-run 6th wicket stand with David Robinson (28), who was the only other batsman to manage double figures! David faced 54 balls & hit 3 boundaries for his 28 runs. Without the 21 extras donated by North Leeds the Steeton total would have been even more inadequate.

In reply North Leeds lost their first wicket with just 8 runs on the board, but Steeton were unable to capitalise on such a good start. Four different Steeton bowlers took a single wicket each: Callum Lowe (1-26) took the first wicket courtesy of a catch by Oliver Gledhill; James Emmott (1-15) took the second wicket courtesy of a catch by Paul Hardwick; Adam Hardwick (1-32) took the third wicket with an LBW; and the other wicket went to Zach Pearson (1-24) courtesy of a catch by Callum Lowe. North Leeds had scored 149 runs for 4 wicket in 29.4 overs. Steeton arrived at North Leeds as the reigning champions in 2nd place in the league, visiting the side at the bottom of the league…but the Homestead has not been a successful ground for the juggernaut over the past couple of seasons. Steeton were convincingly beaten by 6 wickets & they leave with no points

Steeton 253-3 in 50 overs

Guiseley 254-6 in 49.2 overs

Steeton suffered their 2nd successive league defeat in an exciting home match against current league leaders Guiseley. It is a shame that in a fixture involving last year’s champions and the current league leaders did not merit 2 umpires, leaving Steeton bewailing the lack of an impartial umpire at square leg. Steeton batted first registered an impressive 253 runs for the loss of 3 wickets in their 50 overs. With the score on 37 runs, skipper Hayden Tennant was the first man out having scored 20 runs from 29 deliveries with 5 boundaries. Following a 2nd wicket stand of 88 runs, opener Mick Wilson, was run out for 42 runs scored from 80 deliveries with 1 six & 6 fours. At No3 David Robinson top-scored with anexcellent unbeaten 93* runs scored from 124 deliveries with 1 six & 13 fours. David shared a 3rd wicket stand of 93 runs with Julian Higginson, who contributed 56 runs from 58 deliveries with 3 sixes & 5 fours. David went on to share an unbroken 4th wicket partnership of 35 runs with Oliver Gledhill, who contributed 12* runs not out from 16 balls faced with a ‘DLF Maximum’ six from the last ball of the innings. At the tea interval Steeton knew that they would have to bowl & field well to defend a ‘par-score’ target of 253 runs.

Steeton’s fielding was not up to it’s usual standard, and a couple of chances, which would have normally been taken, went to ground. James Emmott was the only successful Steeton bowler, and he finished with a great 5-wicket haul. James’ 5 wickets were at a cost of 94 runs taken from 15.2 overs, with a smart return catch from his own bowling, and further catches by Callum Lowe & David Robinson, and a stumping by keeper Julian Higginson. Paul Hardwick had a run out, and the fielding points went to Mick Wilson & James Jordan. Guiseley scored 254 runs for the loss of 6 wickets, with Durkin (81*) hitting the winning six from the 2nd ball of the final over. In a very close match Steeton lost by 4 wickets and collect no points.

Steeton 164 a/o in 49.3 overs

Olicanian 130-8 in 50 overs

Steeton halted their run of worrying defeats with a 4-2 winning draw at Olicanian. Batting first Steeton’s start was disastrous as they slumped to 42 runs with 6 wickets down, with only Mick Wilson (17) & Adam Hardwick (18) managing double figures. What followed this collapse was a fantastic 7th wicket partnership of 103 runs between James Jordan (42) & James Emmott (63), which changed the course of this match. James Jordan scored his 42 runs from 94 deliveries with 3 boundaries & James Emmott scored his magnificent 63 runs from only 70 deliveries with 4 sixes & 5 fours. 13 runs by Paul Hardwick saw Steeton to a reasonable total of 164 runs all out in 49.3 overs.

Steeton’s bowling and fielding was excellent as they contained Olicanian to 130 runs with 8 wickets down. Adam Hardwick & James Emmott took 3 wickets each. Adam bowled 15 overs and only conceded 30 runs (2 runs per over) as he collected his 3 wickets all clean bowled. James bowled 9 overs and only conceded 28 runs (3 runs per over) as he collected his 3 wickets. Zach Pearson (1-23) & Callum Lowe (1-25) chipped in with a single wicket each. Adam Hardwick, Gabe Manthorp & Mick Wilson took a single catch apiece. Gabe Manthorp & Callum Lowe were awarded the fielding points. Olicanian passed the ¾ score of 123 runs and settled for a hard earned draw. Steeton leave Olicanian with 4 points from a winning draw…and the psychological edge when they return tomorrow for the Birtwhistle Cup match.

Olicanian 144-6 in 45 overs

Steeton 145-1 in 38.1 overs

Steeton won by 9 wickets to progress through to the next round of the Birtwhistle Cup. With Olicanian batting first the priority for Steeton was restricting the run flow, which they did superbly…9 of the 45 overs bowled were maidens! The pick of the bowlers was Callum Lowe who dismissed both openers & finished with 2 wickets for 28 runs from his 9 overs. There was a single wicket each for Zach Pearson (1-19) & James Emmott (1-33). The Hardwick brother Paul & Adam each had a hand in running out 2 of the Olicanian batsmen and there were also catches for keeper Gabe Manthorp, Paul Hardwick & Mick Wilson, who was awarded 2 fielding points. In their 45 overs Olicanian managed 144 runs for the loss of 6 wickets. Steeton would have to score at just over 3 runs per over to progress in the competition.

In reply Steeton were imperious. Skipper Hayden Tennant was the only man out having scored 26 runs from a 35-run opening partnership. Mick Wilson went on to notch a fantastic unbeaten 84* runs scored from 125 deliveries with 1 six & 11 fours. Mick shared a great unbroken 2nd wicket partnership of 110 runs with David Robinson, who contributed 26* runs not out. Steeton scored 145 runs for the loss of just 1 wicket in only 39.1 overs to win by 9 wickets with 5 overs to spare. They travel to Otley on 12th June for the next round of the Birtwhistle Cup.

Steeton 276-8 in 50 overs

Rawdon 222-8 in 50 overs

Steeton dominated the match, but had to settle for a winning draw (4-2) at home to Rawdon. Batting first Steeton’s innings was dominated by a fantastic 133-run opening partnership between the experienced pairing of Mick Wilson (65) & skipper Hayden Tennant (104). Mick scored his 65 runs from 72 deliveries with 9 boundaries, and Hayden Tennant scored a great century – his 104 runs coming from 130 deliveries with 17 boundaries. The remainder of Steeton’s innings was composed of cameo knocks as batsmen chased quick runs. James Procter scored 12 runs; Oliver Gledhill hit 1 six & 4 fours as he scored 26 runs from 22 deliveries; Gabe Manthorp scored an unbeaten 15* runs from 19 balls faced; James Jordan needed 15 deliveries to hit 17 runs with 1 six & 1 four; and Paul Hardwick hit a six as he scored 10 runs from 9 deliveries. At the tea interval Steeton had notched-up an impressive 276 runs for the loss of 8 wickets in their 50 overs.

Rawdon’s reply set off at a rapid rate and had reached 43 runs in just 6 overs before losing their first wicket. Steeton’s opening bowlers both bowled well & collected 3 wickets each: Paul Hardwick took 3 wickets for 60 runs from 17 overs, and Callum Lowe took 3 wickets for 53 runs from 11 overs. Spinner Zach Pearson took 2 wickets for 70 runs from 16 overs, but Steeton did not help themselves with their catching, which was not up to its usual standard. Keeper Gabe Manthorp took 2 chances, and James Emmott took a high catch at slip, but Steeton could have claimed all 6 points if they had managed to cling on to a couple of the sharp chances, which were not taken. Zach Pearson & Paul Hardwick were awarded fielding points. Stubborn defence saw Rawdon comfortable pass the ¾ score of 207 runs, and did not look overly discomfited as they they batted out for a draw – scoring 222 runs for the loss of 8 wickets in their 50 overs. A good overall performance saw Steeton collect 4 points from a winning draw, but they remain mired in the middle of the table.

Full Scorecard

Beckwithshaw 258-6 in 50 overs

Steeton 262-6 in 50 overs

In an exciting finish Steeton knocked off 258 runs with James Emmott hitting a six to win this fixture from the last ball of the match. Batting first on a good track Beckwithshaw opener Critchley (108) scored a century as Beckwithshaw registered an impressive 258 runs for the loss of 6 wickets in their 50 overs. There were 2 wickets each for Zach Pearson (2-67) & James Emmott (2-79), and a single wicket each for Paul Hardwick (1-32) & James Yeadon (1-34). James Yeadon, Paul Hardwick & Oliver Gledhill each took a catch.

Chasing such a formidable target, Steeton’s reply began with a very solid opening partnership of 138 runs between Mick Wilson (52) & skipper Hayden Tennant (86). Mick Wilson scored his 52 runs from 60 deliveries with 9 boundaries & Hayden Tennant’s 86 runs coming from 95 deliveries with 15 boundaries. James Procter chipped in with 14 runs before Julian Higginson (39) put on a 34-run 4th wicket stand with Oliver Gledhill (22). Julian hit 6 fours & faced 41 balls for his 39 runs, and Oliver needed 26 deliveries to score his 22 runs with 2 fours. As the game approached its thrilling climax James Emmott smashed a six to complete this exciting victory from the very last ball of the innings. James finished with 27* runs not out from 22 deliveries with 3 sixes…and Steeton finished with 262 runs for 6 wickets in 50 overs to win by 4 wickets & collect all 6 points from this encounter

Harden 75 a/o in 36 overs

Steeton 76-6 in 17.5 overs

Steeton beat Harden by 4 wickets, but in truth the gulf between these sides was not fairly reflected in this mere statistic. Asked to bat first Harden struggled and only Mark Falkingham (21) managed double figures. Harden were blown away by 2 great 5-wicket hauls; the pace of Paul Hardwick earning him 5 wickets for 35 run from 18 overs & the swing of James Emmott  earning him 5 wicket for just 12 runs from 11 overs. Keeper Julian Higginson collected 3 comfortable catches & there was a catch for Phil Barrett in the slips & James Procter in the covers. James Procter was awarded 2 fielding points. Harden had only scraped 75 runs all out in 36 overs. At the tea interval Steeton knew they had 64 overs to knock off the meagre target of 75 runs, but such low target often breeds complacency.

Steeton had an opening stand of 25 runs between James Procter (14) & Gabe Manthorp (11), but losing 3 quick wickets meant they were soon 29 runs with 3 wickets down. Phil Barrett added 13 runs & skipper Hayden Tennant 10 runs, as Steeton closed-in on Harden’s score. Victory was completed by Julian Higginson, who top-scored for Steeton with an unbeaten 19* runs scored from 30 deliveries with 4 boundaries. Steeton had scored 76 runs for the loss of 6 wickets from 17.5 overs, to win by 4 wickets with 46 overs to spare. Steeton collected 6 points from this one-sided encounter.

Steeton 204-6 in 45 overs

Otley 98 a/o in 33 overs

Asked to bat first on a difficult damp track Steeton batted well and set a target of 204 runs for the loss of 6 wickets in their 45 overs. Steeton had an opening stand of 30 runs before skipper Hayden Tennant (12) was the first man out. His opening partner was James Procter, who went on to score 36 runs from 53 deliveries with 6 boundaries. James shared a 40-run 2nd wicket stand with David Robinson, who contributed 28 runs from 36 balls faced with 1 six & 3 fours. Julian Higginson scored 33 runs from 55 deliveries with 7 boundaries and shared a 40-run 5th wicket partnership with Gabe Manthorp, who top-scored with a fantastic unbeaten half-century completed from the very last ball of the innings. Gabe’s 50* runs not out came from 69 deliveries with 4 boundaries. Gabe shared a great 57-run 6th wicket stand with Phil Barrett, who faced 22 deliveries for his 21 runs. At the tea interval Steeton knew that a target of 204 runs would take some getting on what was still a difficult track, but they did not expect the collapse that followed.

After 15 overs Otley had been reduced to 26 runs with 6 wickets down and the match as a contest was all-but over. Paul Hardwick took 1 wicket for 17 runs from 8 overs courtesy of a well judged catch by David Robinson taken off a hook shot that went down to fine leg. Callum Lowe bowled a great 7 overs and took 2 wickets for just 10 runs, with catches by James Procter & Paul Hardwick. David Robinson was the pick of the bowlers as he clean bowled 2 batsmen and had a third caught behind by Julian Higginson – David finished with 3 wickets for just 10 runs from 5 overs. James Procter (1-11) took a single wicket, before the tail end was mopped-up by the off-spin of Zach Pearson, who also took 3 wickets at a cost of 32 runs from 7 overs, courtesy of a catch by Gabe Manthorp & a 2nd catch for Paul Hardwick. Otley were all out for 98 runs from 33 overs, meaning Steeton win by 106 runs. Steeton now meet Kirkstall Educational at home on 3rd July in the quarter finals.

Burley-in-Wharfedale 70 a/o in 33.2 overs

Steeton 71-0 in 19.5 overs

While our 1st XI won by 9 wickets, our 2nd XI went one better and trounced Burley by 10 wickets. You might have expected a close match with 3rd placed Burley hosting 4th placed Steeton, but Steeton were totally dominant. Winning the toss certainly had a big influence on this match, and asked to bat first Burley were put to the sword by Steeton’s bowlers. Callum Lowe bowled a great opening blast, taking 3 wickets for 7 runs from 7 overs, and reducing Burley to 9 runs with 3 wickets down. Callum had catches taken by keeper Julian Higginson & James Procter. However Callum’s great figures, were eclipsed by those of James Emmott, who collected his second successive 5-wicket haul. James took 5 wicket for 12 runs from 9.2 overs, with catches by Gabe Manthorp & James Jordan. Off-spinner Zach Pearson took 2 wickets for 21 runs as Burley were all out for a paltry 70 runs in 33.2 overs. In the tea interval Steeton knew that the damp track had assisted them, but they had exploited the conditions brilliantly to keep Burley to such a meagre total.

By contrast in reply Steeton’s batting was masterful. With 66 overs to score just 70 runs the run-rate brought no pressure, but Steeton were given enough loose deliveries to knock-off the target in 19.5 overs. Mick Wilson top-scored with an unbeaten 37* runs scored from 58 deliveries with 5 boundaries. Skipper Hayden Tennant scored an unbeaten 31* runs from 61 deliveries with 3 fours, including an all-run four! Steeton had scored 71 runs without losing a wicket in 19.5 overs – the match being completed by 4:30pm. Steeton won by 10 wickets and leave Hodson Park with all 6 points. At the halfway point of the season Steeton are now in third place in the league – 8 points behind new leaders Green Lane.

Kirkstall Educational 175-8 in 50 overs

Steeton 177-3 in 29.2 overs

The Steeton juggernaut is definitely in full flow as they notched a further 6 points from a thoroughly impressive performance against tomorrow’s Birtwhistle Cup quarter-final opponents. Asked to bat first Kirkstall scored 175 runs for the loss of 8 wickets in their 50 overs. Pick of the bowlers was Zach Pearson, who took 4 wickets for 69 runs from 20 overs. There were 2 wickets each for opening bowlers Callum Lowe (2-56) & James Yeadon (2-20), who both bowled 12 overs Skipper Hayden Tennant was in sparkling form in the field with 3 catches & both fielding points. Keeper Julian Higginson took a catch and there was also nice catches for James Jordan & Mick Wilson. At the tea interval Steeton knew that Kirkstall’s score was well short of a competitive total on a good Steeton track with a fast outfield.

In reply Steeton had scored 41 runs before losing their 1st wicket – Mick Wilson caught on the cover boundary for 30 runs scored from 25 deliveries with 7 boundaries. Mick’s opening partner was skipper Hayden Tennant, who went on to score an unbeaten 70* runs from 80 deliveries with 4 sixes & 7 fours. Hayden shared a 33-run 2nd wicket partnership with James Procter (22), who faced 29 balls and hit 4 fours before he was caught out by a fantastic diving catch in the covers. Hayden then shared a 53-run 3rd wicket partnership with Julian Higginson (22), who faced 30 deliveries & hit 4 fours before being ‘yorked’ and clean bowled. Finally Hayden shared an unbroken 4th wicket stand of 50 runs with Oliver Gledhill, who contributed an unbeaten 20* from 14 balls faced with 3 boundaries. Steeton had scored 177 runs for the loss of 3 wickets in 29.2 overs, and were deserved victors. Steeton won by 7 wickets with 20 overs to spare & the 6 points they collect keep up the pressure on 1st division leaders Green Lane.

Steeton 325-8 in 45 overs

Kirkstall Educational 257-9 in 45 overs

In a much closer match Steeton completed the double over Kirkstall this weekend. Batting first Steeton registered an impressive 325 runs for the loss of 8 wickets in their 45 overs. After an opening partnership of 128 runs the first man out was Mick Wilson, who had scored 45 runs from 73 deliveries with 1 six & 7 fours. Mick’s opening partner was skipper Hayden Tennant, who went on to score a fabulous 78 runs from 86 deliveries with 2 sixes & 12 fours. Hayden shared a 43-run 2nd wicket stand with James Procter, who scored 24 runs from 21 deliveries with 1 six & 3 fours. Alex Howarth accelerated the scoring with 30 runs from 21 deliveries with 2 sixes & 3 fours. Julian Higginson hit 1 six & 5 fours as he scored an unbeaten 40* runs from 36 deliveries. Gabe Manthorp weighed-in with 18 runs, and James Emmott smashed 2 sixes & 4 fours as he faced just 14 balls to score his 32 runs. James Yeadon (10*) smashed the last ball of the innings for a six as Steeton finished with an impressive 325 runs, helped by an incredible 47 extras. At the tea interval Steeton knew that, although it was an excellent batting track, that having to score at over 7 runs per over would create its own pressure on Kirkstall.

Savary (98) & Aitken (95) led Kirkstall’s reply, but while they were scoring well on a good track, the required scoring-rate was always rising. Both Steeton’s opening bowlers took 2 wickets each: Jake Hill (2-40 from 8 overs) with a return catch from his own bowling; and James Yeadon (2-47) from 9 overs with catches by Alex Howarth & keeper Julian Higginson. Zach Pearson (1-36) chipped in with a single wicket, before skipper Hayden Tennant rounded off a great all-round performance by taking 4 wickets for 33 runs from 7 overs, including his 100th wicket in his 2nd XI career. James Yeadon & Gabe Manthorp were the catchers for Hayden. Steeton’s ground fielding was excellent, but if their catching had been as good then Kirkstall’s reply would not have been as good. Kirkstall finished with 257 runs for the loss of 9 wickets in their 45 overs. Steeton won by 68 runs and progress to the semi-final stage of the Birtwhistle Cup where they will play Bilton at home in a fortnight on 17th July.

Adel 166-7 in 50 overs

Steeton 132 a/o in 46.1 overs

Batting first Adel scored 166 runs for the loss of 7 wickets in 50 overs. Spinner Zach Pearson took 5 wickets  for 39 runs from 19 overs, and the other successful bowler was James Yeadon, who took 2 wickets for 38 runs from 12 overs. Keeper Julian Higginson took 2 catches and Callum Lowe also took a catch.

In reply Steeton relied on their captain Hayden Tennant, who top-scored with 41 runs from 75 deliveries with 5 boundaries. Hayden shared a 44-run 3rd wicket stand with Luke Watson, who scored 12 runs on his 2nd XI debut. Julian Higginson chipped in with 11 runs and he shared a 5th wicket partnership of 20 runs with Oliver Gledhill, who contributed 25 runs from 52 deliveries with 3 fours. Steeton’s tail capitulated and finished with 132 runs all out in 46.1 overs. Steeton lost by 34 runs and leave Church Lane with no points.

Otley 172-8 in 30 overs

Steeton 175-5 in 27.2 overs

Rain delayed the start of this fixture until 3pm, when it had been reduced to 30-overs per side, and Otley were asked to bat first. Otley scored an excellent 172 runs for the loss of 8 wickets in their 30 overs. Pick of the Steeton bowlers was spinner Zach Pearson, who took 4 wickets for 60 runs from 12 overs, courtesy of 2 stumpings by Julian Higginson and a catch by skipper Hayden Tennant. Opening bowler James Yeadon took 2 wickets for 36 runs from 8 overs with catches by keeper Julian Higginson & Gabe Manthorp. James Emmott (1-45) took a return catch from his own bowling. James Jordan & Hayden Tennant were awarded fielding points.

Steeton’s reply began with a 70-run opening partnership between Mick Wilson (33) and skipper Hayden Tennant (36). Mick faced 37 deliveries & hit 2 sixes & 3 fours for his 33 runs & Hayden faced 38 balls and hit 6 boundaries for his 36 runs. Both openers went in quick succession and the scoring was taken on by Julian Higginson (46*) & James Emmott (30), who shared a 55-run 4th wicket stand. Julian hit 1 six & 3 fours as he scored an unbeaten 46* runs from 49 deliveries, and James faced just 24 balls as he scored 30 runs, including 1 six & 3 fours. Gabe Manthorp scored an unbeaten 10* runs as Steeton scored 175 runs for the loss of 5 wickets in 27.2 overs. Steeton won by 5 wickets with 16 balls to spare. Steeton collect 6 points.

Steeton 208-8 in 50 overs

Green Lane 70 a/o in 30.3 overs

When the current league leaders play last season’s champions you might expect a close match…this was not the case! Steeton totally dominated this fixture – scoring 208 runs for the loss of 8 wickets in their 50 overs, before bowling Green Lane all out for just 70 runs. A solid batting display saw all Steeton’s top 6 batsmen scoring double figures. Mick Wilson (13) was the first man out with the score on 13 runs, followed by skipper Hayden Tennant (20), when the score had progressed to 45 runs. James Procter (37) & Julian Higginson (50) shared 67-run 3rd wicket partnership: James Procter scored his 38 runs from 84 deliveries with 7 fours & Julian Higginson scored his half-century from 77 deliveries with 7 boundaries. As the innings progressed the scoring rate was lifted by Gabe Manthorp, who scored 37 runs from 39 deliveries with 3 fours, and Phil Barrett, who faced just 12 balls as he scored 21 runs with 3 fours. Zach Pearson scored 11* runs not out as Steeton closed on 208 runs for the loss of 8 wickets in their 50 overs.

Green Lane had progressed to 23 runs before losing their first wicket, but then things went downhill rapidly. Zach Pearson was in fantastic form in the field and with the ball. Zach bowled an devastating spell of spin bowling that earned him 5 wickets for 14 runs from 8.3 overs. Zach also ran out one batter with a direct hit, and collected a throw from skipper Hayden Tennant to run out another batsman. Fine bowling by James Emmott was rewarded with 3 wicket for just 22 runs from 11 overs, with catches taken by James Procter & a return catch from his own bowling. Green Lane capitulated to 70 runs all out in 30.3 overs. Steeton won by 138 runs and leave Nunroyd Park with the 6 points that maintains the pressure on the top of the league.

Bilton 281-5 in 45 overs

Steeton 148 a/o in 31 overs

Steeton crashed out of the Birtwhistle Cup to a very competent Bilton side. When Bilton are inevitably promoted they will be formidable 1st division opposition next season. Batting first Bilton scored 281 runs for the loss of 5 wickets in their 45 overs, with opener Donnelly scoring 145 runs. Without some excellent fielding from Steeton this total would have been even greater. Skipper Hayden Tennant picked up 2 late wickets at the cost of 56 runs from 7 overs with boundary catches taken by James Emmott & Callum Lowe. There was a single wicket each for James Emmott (1-32), Callum Lowe (1-35) & James Yeadon (1-74).

Steeton’s reply was curtailed with both their openers back in the pavilion with the score on just 25 runs. Skipper Hayden Tennant scored 14 runs and James Procter scored 13 runs. The top-score for Steeton was just 22 runs by Mark Chapman, scored from 39 deliveries with 2 boundaries. Phil Barrett scored 21 runs from 21 deliveries, including 2 fours, and the only other batsmen to manage double figures were Gabe Manthorp (14), James Emmott (15) & James Yeadon (10). Steeton were all out for just 148 runs in 31 overs, meaning they lost by 133 runs & will not be competing in this year’s Birtwhistle cup final.

North Leeds 223-6 in 50 overs

Steeton 210 a/o in 46 overs

A hard-fought match finished with the wrong result for Steeton, as they go down by 13 runs. Asked to bat first North Leeds had progressed to 66 runs before losing their 1st wicket to the prolific Zach Pearson, who went on to collect his 3rd 5-wicket haul in the past month. In July Zach has taken 24 wickets including 5 wickets on 3 occasions & 4 wickets twice! Today Zach bowled 21 overs & conceded 94 runs as he took his 5 wickets. The other wicket fell to skipper James Emmott (1-51). Zach had 4 catches taken: with a comfortable catch pouched by Gabe Manthorp; 2 catches by Phil Barrett, including an excellent diving one-handed take at mid-on & a well-judged take on the boundary; with the other catch being a sharp return catch from a ball drilled back at him from his own bowling. At the tea interval North Leeds had scored 223 runs for the loss of 6 wickets in their 50 overs…a reasonable target, but not usually enough on a good Steeton track on a hot & sunny day.

In reply both of Steeton’s openers were back in the pavilion with the score on 55 runs: Mick Wilson had scored 30 runs from 42 deliveries with 6 boundaries, and James Procter had contributed 12 runs. Adam Hardwick top-scored with 37 runs scored from 54 deliveries with 7 fours and shared a 61-run 3rd wicket stand with Julian Higginson, who contributed 28 runs from 44 balls faced with 5 fours. Gabe Manthorp (14), Phil Barrett (19), James Emmott (18) & Graham Williamson (13*) all managed scores into the teens, but no-one was able to occupy the crease long enough to make the decisive contribution that Steeton needed. Steeton were all out for 210 runs in 46 overs, and so lost by the small margin of 13 runs. No points this week for Steeton…not the best preparation for next week’s important fixture at Guiseley!

Steeton 192-6 in 46 overs

Guiseley 144 a/o in 45 overs

Revenge is always enjoyable…and Steeton certainly gained some revenge following the injustice of the home fixture. Rain reduced this fixture to a 46 overs per side match. Batting first Steeton were reduced to 47 runs with 4 wickets down, with only skipper Hayden Tennant (19) managing double figures. What followed were 2 excellent stands – firstly a 57-run 5th wicket stand between Julian Higginson (77*) and Danny Hanson (20) followed by an even better 70-run 6th wicket partnership with James Emmott (34). Julian Higginson’s great unbeaten 77* runs came from 72 deliveries and included 1 six & 10 fours. James Emmott faced 37 deliveries & hit 1 six & 3 fours for his 34 runs. Finally a quick-fire unbeaten 12* runs by Graham Williamson saw Steeton to an impressive total of 192 runs for the loss of 6 wickets in 46 overs.

As Guiseley battled to secure a losing draw, they were put to the sword by James Emmott, who collected a 5-wicket haul. James bowled 16 overs, conceding 32 runs as he collected his 5 wicket, with a catch by Zach Pearson & a stumping by Julian Higginson. There were 2 wickets apiece for Callum Lowe (2-35) and Graham Williamson (2-32) courtesy of catches by skipper Hayden Tennant & Callum Lowe. Zach Pearson (1-26) took the other wicket with a catch by keeper Julian Higginson. With just 1 over to survive Guiseley were all out for 144 runs in 45 overs. Steeton win by 48 runs & collect all 6 points. Steeton’s win means they are on 67 points; leap-frogging Guiseley and are now just 2 points off leaders Green Lane (69 points) & 1 point behind 2nd placed Adel (68 points).

Olicanian 212 a/o in 49.4 overs

Steeton 106 a/o in 31.1 overs

Steeton lost to Olicanian by 106 runs. Batting first Olicanian had scored 121 runs on the board at drinks before losing their first wicket – Liviara scored 102 runs & Jackson scored 57 runs. But from such a strong start Olicanian lost their last 9 wickets for just 91 runs and finished with 212 runs all out in 49.4 overs. Callum Lowe (1-51) made the initial breakthrough, but then it was 4 wickets each for Zach Pearson & James Emmott. Zach bowled 17.4 overs and conceded 48 runs as he took his 4 wickets courtesy of 2 catches by Phil Barrett, 1 by keeper Gabe Manthorp as well as a return catch from his own bowling. James bowled 18 overs and conceded 68 runs as he took his 4 wickets courtesy of a further 2 catches & a stumping by keeper Gabe Manthorp. The other wicket was a run out with a good throw by Danny Hanson to Gabe Manthorp. With 3 catches & a stumping as well as a hand in a run out Gabe had a good match and only conceded 2 byes. For his 2 catches Phil Barrett was awarded a fielding point.

In reply Steeton’s top-order batting was disastrous, with a number a lame dismissals reducing Steeton to 35 runs with 5 wickets lost – only opener Danny Hanson (11) & Adam Hardwick (13) managed double figures. The only significant partnership was a 45-run 6th wicket stand between Phil Barrett (12) & top-scorer Luke Watson (34). Luke scored his 34 runs from just 34 deliveries with 5 fours. Graham Williamson chipped in with 11 runs, but Steeton were all out for 106 runs in 31.1 overs – exactly half of the Olicanian target. Steeton lost by 106 runs and at this important part of the season collect no points. Steeton are still in 3rd place – now 7 points behind new leaders Adel & 2 points behind 2nd placed Green Lane.

Rawdon 240 a/o in 49.3 overs

Steeton 132 a/o in 39.3 overs

Steeton lost at Rawdon by 108 runs. Batting first Rawdon scored 240 runs all out in 49.3 overs. Zach Pearson was once again in the wickets as he registered his best return – collecting 6 wickets for 90 runs from 16 overs – and bringing his season tally to 55 wickets. The Rawdon opening stand of 97 runs was broken by Adam Hardwick (1-28) and James Emmott (2-59) took 2 wickets. The other wicket fell to a run out with a smart pick-up & throw by Zach Pearson for Luke Watson to collect & remove the bails. Keeper Gabe Manthorp was in great form as he finished with 5 victims: 3 stumpings & 2 catches. Skipper Hayden Tennant also took a catch as Rawdon closed on 240 all out in their final over.

Steeton’s reply went from bad to worse as 39 runs for 3 wickets became 61 runs for 7 wickets. Skipper Hayden Tennant scored 13 runs, and Adam Hardwick scored 20 runs with 1 six & 3 fours before he was adjudged LBW. James Procter top-scored and was unlucky to be fall just short of his half-century: James scored 46 runs from 67 deliveries with 8 boundaries before he was adjudged LBW. James shared an excellent 66-run 8th wicket partnership with Graham Williamson, who scored 27 runs from 69 deliveries with 3 fours as he tried to secure a losing draw for Steeton. But Graham was the last man out with Steeton’s total just 132 runs in 39.3 overs. Once again Steeton collect no points and their title challenge is fading.

Steeton 225-8 in 50 overs

Beckwithshaw 226-7 in 49.4 overs

A much closer match, but with the same result saw Steeton lose at home to Beckwithshaw by 3 wickets, with 2 balls to go. Batting first Steeton scored 225 runs for 8 wickets in their 50 overs. Mick Wilson was in great form as he scored 77 runs including 1 six & 10 fours. Mick shared a 30-run 3rd wicket partnership with Adam Hardwick, followed by an even better 4th wicket stand of 85 runs with junior Luke Watson, who contributed 38 runs scored from 51 deliveries with 2 sixes & 3 fours. When the innings needed an extra impetus it was provided by James Emmott, who finished with an unbeaten 42 runs from just 37 deliveries, with 1 six & 4 fours. At the lunch interval Steeton knew they had set a reasonable target, but they would have to ball & field well to stop a determined Beckwithshaw side.

In reply Beckwithshaw had an opening partnership of 106 runs between Guy (61), who was clean bowled by Callum Lowe (1-38); and Walmsley (49) who was caught & bowled by Zach Pearson (1-90). Fine bowling by James Emmott earned him a 5-wicket haul – James finished with 5 wickets for 50 runs from 18 overs. with a good low catch by Adam Hardwick, a smart stumping by Julian Higginson, and a return catch from his own bowling. James Procter was awarded the fielding point. In an incredibly tense finish Beckwithshaw passed the Steeton target with just 2 balls to spare. Beckwithshaw had scored 226 runs for 7 wickets in 49.4 overs to win by 3 wickets. For the 3rd week in succession Steeton lose & collect no points.

Steeton 118 a/o in 39.4 overs

Harden 122-4 in 33.3 overs

Another loss by the 2nd XI mean they have now lost 6 of their last 7 matches. Batting first Steeton were looking comfortable at 76 runs for 2 wickets at the drinks break, but managed to collapse to 118 runs all out in 39.4 overs. Skipper Hayden Tennant top-scored with 26 runs scored from 62 deliveries with 2 fours & James Procter scored 25 runs from 55 deliveries with 4 fours. Opener Mick Wilson chipped in with 16 runs, but Adam Hardwick with 14 runs was the only other batsman to manage double figures.

In reply Harden were reeling at 52 runs with 4 wickets down, but a solid unbroken 5th wicket partnership saw them comfortably home. Zach Pearson was the pick of the bowlers with 2 wickets for 26 runs from 7 overs, bringing his season’s tally to 58 wickets. There was a single wicket each for opening bowler Callum Lowe (1-29) & junior Danny Austick (1-11). Keeper Julian Higginson had 1 stumping as Harden scored 122 runs for the loss of 4 wickets in 33.3 overs. Steeton lost by 6 wickets & collect no points, but did manage to beat the 1st XI in a tug-of-war competition!

Burley-in-Wharfedale 164 a/o in 22.2 overs

Steeton 166-8 in 23.2 overs

Steeton ended a 4 match losing streak with a unconventional victory at home to Burley. Batting first Burley scored 164 runs all out in 22.2 overs – scoring at almost 7½ runs per over! Steeton opened the bowling with their usual wicket-keeper Julian Higginson (1-29). The other opener was Danny Austick, who was the pick of the bowlers with 3 wickets for 22 runs from 6 overs. There were 2 wickets apiece for James Emmott (2-26) & Luke Watson (2-24); and a single wicket each for skipper Hayden Tennant (1-17) & James Procter (1-10). Keeper Gabe Manthorp took 2 catches & 1 stumping, and there were further catches for Graham Williamson, Adam Hardwick, Danny Austick & 2 catches for skipper Hayden Tennant.

With Burley’s last wicket falling at 2:21pm, Steeton’s innings started without having the tea interval. Steeton had shuffled the batting order and so usual No11 Callum Lowe opened the batting. Steeton slumped to 43 runs for 5 wickets with only James Procter (13) managing double figures. Adam Hardwick came to the crease in belligerent form…he smashed 6 sixes & 16 fours as he scored a magnificent 104 runs from just 47 deliveries – with 100 runs in boundaries! A fantastic maiden century for Adam. Coming in to bat at No9 Julian Higginson scored 11* runs not out & usual opener Mick Wilson hit a six & 2 fours as he scored an unbeaten 16* runs from just 6 balls faced. Steeton scored 166 runs for the loss of 8 wickets from 23.2 overs. The entire match was completed inside 47 overs…and the players had their tea interval after the match was completed at 4pm. In a manner befitting of a ‘nothing’ match between sides finishing comfortably mid-table, this fixture was not entirely taken seriously…but it is still nice to finish the season with 6 points and a 2-wicket victory.

Steeton 167 a/o in 39.3 overs

Rawdon 136-8 in 40 overs

To complete a successful weekend our 3rd XI had a 4-2 winning draw at Rawdon. Batting first Steeton built on a steady start to set a target of 167 runs all out scored from 39.3 overs. Steeton’s opening stand was a solid 60 runs with new skipper Mark Chapman contributing 36 runs from 60 deliveries with 1 six & 3 fours. Mark’s opening partner was Danny Hanson, who faced 89 balls for his 43 runs with 6 boundaries. Danny added a further 43 runs for the 2nd wicket partnership with Andrew Sewell, who smashed 2 sixes & 2 fours as he notched 25 runs from 27 deliveries. Oliver Myers batted well for his 20 runs, with good support from Chris Karakiozakis (13) & James Yeadon (18).

In reply Rawdon’s openers were both removed with the total on 22 runs by a great opening blast from James Yeadon, who finished with fantastic figures of 3 wickets for 11 runs from 9 overs. Danny Austick also bowled well to remove the Rawdon dangerman Hobson (36) and finished with 2 wickets for 32 runs from 10 overs. There was a wicket each for Oliver Myers (1-22), Luke Watson (1-27) & Chris Karakiozakis (1-37). The bowlers were well supported with catches by keeper Jack Stephenson, Danny Austick & a good low slip catch taken by skipper Mark Chapman. Steeton were unable to remove the final 2 batters as Rawdon were restricted to 136 runs for the loss of 8 wickets from their 40 overs. Steeton leave Rawdon with a well earned 4 points.

Steeton 140 a/o in 37.3 overs

Green Lane 143-3 in 32.5 overs

Batting first Steeton managed 140 runs all out in 37.3 overs. Both Steeton’s openers scored 19 runs each: skipper Mark Chapman & Danny Hanson, but Steeton were reduced to 64 runs with 5 wickets down. In the middle order Oliver Myers scored 23 runs from 18 deliveries with 4 boundaries, and Chris Karakiozakis top-scored with 36 runs from 34 balls faced with 2 sixes & 4 fours. Late resistance from Chris Jowett (11) & Danny Austick (15) saw Steeton to a reasonable total of 140 runs – Green Lane would have to score at 3½ runs per over.

Great bowling by Chris Karakiozakis saw both openers back in the hut with just 25 runs on the board. Chris finished with figures of 2 wickets for 19 runs from 10 overs, but none of the other bowlers were able to contain the run rate. Luke Watson (1-25) took the only other wicket as Green Lane scored 143 runs for the loss of 3 wickets in 32.5 overs. Steeton lost by 7 wickets and leave Nunroyd Park with no points.

Steeton 72 a/o 27.1 overs

Harden 74-0 in 11.2 overs

Steeton 3rd XI were not even second in this match! Steeton crashed out of the Chappell Cup with  a massive 10 wicket defeat at Harden. The least said about this performance the better…but here goes. Asked to bat first Steeton lost wickets regularly and only 4 batters reached double figures. Skipper Mark Chapman scored 12 runs before being bowled; Alistair Harrison played a long, patient innings, but he too was eventually clean bowled for 10 runs; Chris Karakiozakis top-scored with 16 runs including 3 fours, and shared a 17-run 6th wicket stand with James Yeadon, who scored 11 runs. Steeton were all out for 72 runs in 27.1 overs.

Harden’s reply was decisive, with no bowler managing to take a wicket, and no bowler able to stem the flow of runs. Harden cantered to a comfortable victory in 11.2 overs – scoring 74 runs without losing a single wicket, and dumping Steeton out of the Chappell Cup.

Ilkley 218-6 in 40 overs

Steeton 143 a/o in 36 overs

A much better performance by Steeton 3rd XI, but the same result…a loss by 75 runs. Ilkley batted first and scored 218 runs for the loss of 6 wickets in their 40 overs. The pick of the Steeton bowlers was James Yeadon, whose 10 overs conceded 38 runs as he collected 2 wickets, including a return catch from his own bowling. There was a wicket apiece for Oliver Myers (1-17) courtesy of a catch by Chris Karakiozakis; Chris Karakiozakis (1-31) clean bowled one batsman; Charlotte Boulton (1-41), courtesy of a smart stumping by Jack Stephenson; & Danny Austick (1-41), courtesy of a catch by Danny Hanson.

In reply Steeton were off to solid start, putting on 78 runs before losing their first wicket: Skipper Mark Chapman scoring 32 runs from 51 deliveries with 1 six & 2 fours; and his opening partner Danny Hanson top-scoring with 37 runs scored from 61 deliveries with 2 sixes & 5 fours. Charlotte Boulton played well for her 14 runs, Chris Karakiozakis scored 13 runs & Danny Austick scored 12 runs. After a much improved batting display Steeton were all out for 143 in 36 overs, and lose by 75 runs & so collect no points.

Steeton 206-7 in 40 overs

Harden 91 a/o in 30.4 overs

Revenge is sweet, and Steeton definitely exacted some revenge for their ignominious 10-wicket Chappell Cup defeat by beating Harden by 115 runs. Batting first Steeton scored a formidable 206 runs for the loss of 7 wickets in their 40 overs. After 7 overs Steeton had only managed 13 runs when Danny Hanson (10) was the first wicket to fall. Phil Barrett hit 5 fours as he contributed 26 runs to a 2nd wicket partnership of 34 runs in the next 7 overs. Steeton steadily increased the tempo with Jack Stephenson scoring 10 runs & Jake Hill 19 runs, including a baseball-style six. Skipper Chris Karakiozakis scored a fantastic unbeaten 55* runs in a captain’s innings that included 2 sixes & 5 fours. Luke Watson scored 20 runs with 3 boundaries & James Yeadon hit 1 six & 1 fours as he finished with an unbeaten 21* runs. At the tea interval Steeton had amassed an excellent 206 runs at over 5 runs per over…a good total, but job only half done.

In reply Harden had reached 22 runs and had lost both their openers to great catches by keeper Jack Stephenson: Danny Austick (1-17) taking the first & Jake Hill (1-19) the second. Graham Williamson took 2 wickets for 16 runs, with catches by Charlotte Boulton & a third sharp catch by keeper Jack Stephenson. James Yeadon bowled with pace & accuracy, and was rewarded with 3 wickets for 17 runs with catches by Chris Karakiozakis, Phil Barrett & a return catch off his own bowling. At this point all the 7 wickets to fall had been caught out! The sequence of catches was broken by Luke Watson, who needed just 2.4 overs to clean bowl the last 3 Harden wickets, and only conceded 6 runs. A great bowling display backed up by good fielding & excellent catching meant Harden were all out for just 91 runs in 30.4 overs. Having waited for 3 weekends without a fixture, Steeton 3rd XI restart their season in the best possible manner: a solid performance, a win by 115 runs and all 6 points on offer.

Steeton 143 a/o in 35.5 overs

Hall Park 144-8 in 30.4 overs

Steeton could only muster 10 men to take on Horsforth Hall Park, and with such a close match that 1 extra person would almost certainly have swung the result in the favour of Steeton. As it was Steeton lost by 2 wickets, having scored 143 runs all out in 35.5 overs, and in reply Hall Park scored 144 runs for 8 wickets in 30.4 overs. Steeton won the toss and rather surprisingly elected to bat first on a pitch which had only been uncovered a few minutes before the scheduled start time…and certainly had not been rolled. The first few torrid overs saw Steeton slump to 31 runs with 3 wickets down, and only Daniel Hanson (13) managing double figures. Considering the conditions Andy Sewell’s innings was quite remarkable as he scored a superb 76 runs from 85 deliveries with 1 six & 11 fours, before being the last man out. Jake Hill scored 14 runs & Andy Sewell shared an excellent 50-run 7th wicket stand with Luke Watson, who contributed 14 runs. At the tea interval Steeton knew that they had only set a low target, but with good bowling and fielding it may prove to be sufficient.

Danny Austick (1-26) got Steeton off to the best possible start with a first over wicket maiden, but then Hall Park went after the total with gusto – scoring at almost 7 runs per over for the first 14 overs. The 2nd wicket fell to skipper James Yeadon, who finished with great figures of 9 overs, 6 maidens, 5 runs for 1 wicket. The off-spin of Charlotte Boulton ripped through the middle order and she finished with 3 wickets for 37 runs from 6 overs. Luke Watson then took the next 3 wickets for 40 runs from 7.4 overs. Keeper Jack Stephenson took 3 excellent catches, Oliver Myers took 2 catches & there was a single catch each for Andy Sewell & Jake Hill. Charlotte Boulton was awarded the fielding point. Hall Park’s tailend batsmen were very tentative & it took them 7 overs to score the final 10 runs, with more than a little good fortune. Such a close finish left the 10 men of Steeton lamenting not having a full team…a possible 10 more runs batting and 10 more runs saved in the field, would have definitely swung this close match in their favour. Instead Steeton lost by 2 wickets and leave Hall Park with no points.

Thackley 161-9 in 40 overs

Steeton 167-8 in 36.4 overs

The old cricketing adage is that catches win matches…but today Steeton 3rd XI disproved that by dropping 10 catches and yet still winning! Batting first Thackley were reeling at 38 runs for 5 wickets with some excellent catching from keeper Jack Stephenson, a slip catch by Phil Barrett & a driven catch a mid off by skipper Chris Karakiozakis. Bottom-of-the-league Steeton had top-of-the-league Thackley on the ropes, and all that was required was to deliver the coup-de-grâce. Inexplicably at this point Steeton’s fielding fell apart, and a total of 10 catches were dropped. Jake Hill was the pick of the bowlers with 3 wickets for 22 runs from 7 overs. Luke Watson also collected 3 wickets for 52 runs from 6 overs. Earlier the opening bowlers who got us into such a dominant position were Danny Austick (1-18) from 6 overs & James Yeadon (2-10) from 7 overs. Keeper Jack Stephenson took 3 catches taking his season total to 11 – qualifying him for the league averages. Steeton let Thackley off the hook & they finished with 161 runs for 9 wickets from their 40 overs…more than double what they should have got if Steeton’s catching had been on form.

In reply Steeton were looking shaky at 27 runs for 2 wickets – Danny Hanson scoring 13 runs – but a good 3rd wicket partnership of 60 runs between Phil Barrett (39) & Jake Hill (25) steadied the innings. Phil Barrett top-scored with 39 runs scored from 52 deliveries with 6 boundaries; and Jake Hill hit a six & 4 fours as he faced 37 deliveries for his 25 runs. Jake went on to share a 22-run 5th wicket stand with Graham Williamson, who scored 24 runs from 38 deliveries with 2 sixes & 1 four. In a tense finish Steeton were losing wickets as they edged closer to the 161-run victory target. Skipper Chris Karakiozakis played a superb innings as he guided Steeton past the winning line with a unbeaten 25* runs – Chris hit 3 fours and won the match with a six. Steeton had scored 167 runs for the loss of 8 wickets in 36.4 overs, to complete a remarkable victory by 2 wickets with 3 overs to spare, and collect all the 6 points on offer.

Menston 107-5 in 35 overs

Steeton 111-2 in 14.3 overs

Steeton’s best ever weekend was completed by our 3rd XI who knocked off 107 runs at Menston in just 14.3 overs to win by 8 wickets. When Steeton arrived at Menston the proposed wicket was unfit and the start was delayed as another suitable wicket was prepared, and the match became a 35 overs per side fixture. Good tight bowling by all the Steeton bowlers restricted Menston to 107 runs for the loss of 5 wickets in their 35 overs. There was a single wicket each for Danny Austick (1-11) courtesy of a catch by James Yeadon; Luke Watson (1-21) courtesy of a catch by skipper Chris Karakiozakis; Danny Hanson (1-12) courtesy of a catch by Graham Williamson; and Graham Williamson (1-22) caught by Danny Hanson. The other wicket was a run out by Danny Austick, who was awarded a fielding point.

In reply Steeton were 2 wickets down with just 35 runs on the board in the 8th over – opener Danny Hanson had scored a creditable 22 runs. In the next 7 overs Andy Sewell (47*) & James Yeadon (35*) amassed an unbroken 3rd wicket partnership of 76 runs – scoring at almost 11 runs per over. Andy Sewell hit 2 sixes & 7 fours as he top-scored with an unbeaten 47* runs; and James Yeadon hit 7 fours as he scored an unbeaten 35* runs. Steeton had scored 111 runs for the loss of 2 wickets in 14.3 overs, to win by 8 wickets with 20 overs to spare. Steeton collect another 6 points, which lifts them up their conference table.

Steeton 156-5 in 35 overs

Rawdon 95-9 in 35 overs

Rain meant this fixture was reduced to a 35 overs per side match. Batting first Steeton slumped to 48 runs for the loss of 4 wickets, with only opener Mark Chapman (14) managing double figures. Mark’s opening partner, Danny Hanson, was still there, and together with skipper Chris Karakiozakis they forged a marvellous 5th wicket partnership of 108 runs, which set a new Club record. Danny Hanson batted right through the 35 overs and scored a great unbeaten 63* runs from 107 deliveries with 2 sixes & 6 fours. Chris Karakiozakis faced just 48 balls, hitting 4 sixes & 4 fours and scored 60 runs before being caught off the very last ball of the innings. Steeton had set an impressive 156 runs for the loss of 5 wickets in their 35 overs.

Rawdon’s reply was severely curtailed by a great opening blast by Jake Hill which reduced Rawdon to 2 wickets down and only 3 runs on the board. Jake finished with 2 wickets for just 19 runs from 8 overs. Jake’s good bowling figures were eclipsed by those of James Jordan, who blitzed the middle order and took 3 wickets and conceded only 14 runs from 8 overs. Young spinner Nikhil Thomas took 2 wickets for 14 runs, and there was a single wicket each for Chris Karakiozakis (1-22) & Luke Watson (1-16). Keeper Jack Stephenson took 2 catches & both Chris Karakiozakis & Luke Watson took a catch each. Steeton were unable to dislodge Rawdon’s final batsmen, who finished with 95 runs for the loss of 9 wickets in their 35 overs – still 22 runs short of the 117-run ¾ target. Steeton leave Rawdon with 5 points from a convincing winning (5-1) draw.

Steeton 104 a/o in 25.5 overs

Green Lane 107-4 in 30.3 overs

Steeton played their ‘home’ fixture against Green Lane at Nunroyd Park, to allow the postponed Birtwhistle cup fixture to be played at Steeton. Batting first Steeton had a solid 43-run opening partnership between Danny Hanson (18) & Luke Watson (16). Unfortunately this good start was followed by a slump as we lost 5 wickets reaching 56 runs. A 25-run 6th wicket stand between skipper Chris Karakiozakis (19) & Oliver Myers (17) looked promising, but when they were out Steeton slumped to 104 runs all out in 25.5 overs.

Spinner Nikhil Thomas was the only successful bowler for Steeton. Nikhil finished with fantastic figures of 3 wickets for 25 runs from 10 overs, with a catch by debutant Nikhil Keshwala. A further Rawdon batsman was run out by Nikhil Thomas, but Steeton had only set a meagre target, which Green Lane managed to pass with 23 overs and 6 wickets to spare. Rawdon scored 107 runs for 4 wickets in 30.3 overs. Steeton lost by 6 wickets and leave Nunroyd Park with no points.

Ilkley 262-6 in 40 overs

Steeton 70 a/o in 27.2 overs

Unfortunately Steeton barely finished second in this fixture. Batting first Ilkley’s top 3 batsmen all registered half-centuries as they raced to 262 runs for the loss of 6 wickets in 40 overs. Steeton’s depleted bowling attack was led by Luke Watson, who was a little unlucky to only finish with 3 wickets as his 10 overs only conceded 40 runs with a catch taken by stand-in skipper Charlotte Boulton. Charlotte also bowled an excellent 10 overs and took 2 wickets for 53 runs, with a stumping by keeper Jack Stephenson. The other wicket fell to a rapid return catch from his own bowling for Danny Austick (1-68).

Chasing over 6½ runs per over was always going to be a tall order for Steeton, but after 9 overs they were 4 wickets down with only 22 runs on the board. Opener Oliver Myers had scored 12 runs, and the only other batter to manage double figures was skipper Charlotte Boulton, who battled to an unbeaten 19* runs scored from 68 deliveries with 1 four. Steeton were all out for 70 runs in 27.2 overs, and so lost by 192 runs. Stand-in skipper Charlotte Boulton was the only player to come away from this match with any kudos, having taken 2 wickets, held a catch and top-scored with 19* runs not out.

Steeton 159-8 in 40 overs

Hall Park 160-7 in 31 overs

Batting first Steeton’s top order collapsed to 15 runs with 3 wickets down, before opener Charlotte Boulton (25) put on 42 runs for the 4th wicket with skipper Chris Karakiozakis (18). Charlotte scored her 25 runs from 78 deliveries with 4 fours. Jack Stephenson (15) batted sensibly and added 27 runs for the 6th wicket with Paul Hardwick (46*). Paul scored his unbeaten 46* runs from 32 deliveries with 5 boundaries. Paul went on to share an unbroken new Club record 42-run 8th wicket partnership with Danny Austick (16*). In their 40 overs Steeton had scored 159 runs for the loss of 8 wicket.

Hall Park started their reply like a T20 fixture, scoring 53 runs in their first 6 overs. Pick of the bowlers was skipper Chris Karakiozakis with 3 wickets for 52 runs in 10 overs. There was a single wicket each for James Yeadon (1-14), Paul Hardwick (1-39), Luke Watson (1-19) & Charlotte Boulton (1-13). James Yeadon pouched 2 catches & Jake Hill took 1 catch. Hall Park were always scoring runs fast enough, but were losing wickets regularly. They did eventually pass the Steeton target with 9 overs & 3 wickets to spare. Hall Park scored 160 runs for 7 wickets in 31 overs. Steeton lost by 3 wickets and collect no points.

Harden 174-7 in 40 overs

Steeton 179-5 in 36.1 overs

Steeton 3rd XI beat Harden by 5 wickets. Batting first Harden lost their first wicket with the score on 39 runs to opener Danny Austick (1-28) and when they had progressed to 54 lost their 2nd wicket to the fine bowling of James Yeadon, who finished with the extraordinary figures of 5 overs, 4 maidens, 4 runs for 1 wicket. After that it was the ‘Chris-show’ as skipper Chris Karakiozakis collected a 5-wicket haul. Chris finished with 5 wickets for 39 runs from 10 overs. Nikhil Keshwala took 2 catches and there was a single catch each for Jake Hill & James Yeadon. At the lunch interval Harden had scored a good total of 174 runs for 7 wickets in their 40 overs.

In reply Steeton had a good 37-run opening partnership between Danny Hanson (10) & Luke Watson (25), but then floundered to 51 runs for 4 wickets. Luke scored his 25 runs from 36 deliveries with 3 fours. Following on from his 5-wicket haul Chris Karakiozakis shared a 77-run 5th wicket partnership with Danny Austick, who contributed 20 runs from 32 deliveries with 3 fours; followed by a match-winning unbroken 51-run 6th wicket stand with Jack Stephenson (13*). With the scores level Chris needed just 4 runs for what would have been a fantastic maiden century, but very unsportingly the Harden bowler bowled a deliberate wide, which went for 4 runs. With the match won by 5 wickets with 35 balls to spare, Chris Karakiozakis was left high & dry with a magnificent 96* runs not out from just 77 deliveries with 6 sixes & 13 fours. Steeton had scored 179 runs in 36.1 overs, thanks to a memorable all-round performance by their skipper Chris Karakiozakis. Steeton leave the Cuckoo’s Nest with all 6 points.

Steeton 138 a/o in 35 overs

Thackley 142-4 in 31.5 overs

The 10 men who Steeton had managed to muster for this fixture took on league leaders Thackley. Steeton won the toss and rather surprisingly decided to bat first on a difficult damp track. Both Steeton openers were back in the tent with the score on 16 runs, before a battling 42-run 3rd wicket partnership between Phil Barrett (33) & Danny Austick (26) put the innings back on track. Phil faced 48 balls & hit 4 fours for his 33 runs, and Danny also hit 4 fours and faced 48 deliveries for his 26 runs. Skipper Chris Karakiozakis chipped-in with 15 runs, and shared a 23-run 5th wicket stand with top-scorer Jake Hill (36*). Jake scored his unbeaten 36* runs from just 28 deliveries with 1 six  & 6 fours, and went on to  share a 6th wicket partnership of 30 runs with James Yeadon, who contributed 11 runs. The 10 men who Steeton had managed to muster for this fixture had managed to score 138 runs all out in 35 overs.

In reply Thackley had reached 58 runs before Luke Watson (1-36) broke the opening partnership with a catch in the slips by Phil Barrett. Skipper Chris Karakiozakis bowled a fine 10 overs and was rewarded with 1 wicket for 34 runs. Coming on as the 4th change bowler, Danny Austick collected 2 wickets for 16 runs from 2 overs, with catches by James Yeadon & Harpreet Chaggar. Thackley scored 142 runs for the loss of 4 wickets in 31.5 overs. Predictably when 10 men take on the top of the league, Steeton lost by 6 wickets and leave Thackley with no points.

Steeton 301-7 in 40 overs

Menston 150-5 in 40 overs

Steeton finished the season in style with a 5-1 winning draw at home to Menston and the records tumbled. Batting first Steeton scored 301 runs for the loss of 7 wickets in their 40 overs – equalling the highest score by Steeton 3rd XI set in 2008. Skipper Chris Karakiozakis scored an incredible 148 runs, including 12 sixes & 14 fours from just 68 deliveries – the highest score ever by a Steeton 3rd XI batsman. In partnership with Luke Watson (34), Chris put on a record breaking 139 runs for the 6th wicket. Luke Watson scored his 34 runs from 20 deliveries with 5 fours. Opener Danny Hanson scored 22 runs from 28 deliveries with 4 fours & Phil Barrett scored 21 runs from 20 deliveries with 4 fours. Charlotte Boulton (19), Danny Austick (12) & Jake Hill (15) all made valuable contributions as Steeton closed with a mammoth 301 runs for 7 wickets in their 40 overs.

In reply Menston batted steadily, but without any ambition to even challenge the 227-run ¾ score. An opening stand of 119 runs was finally broken in the 36th over by Mark Chapman (1-5) having his first bowling spell of the season with a well-judged catch by Jake Hill. James Yeadon then clean-bowled 2 batsmen, which means he has clinched the Club’s bowling prize. The final over of the season was bowled by Oliver Myers, who took 2 wickets for 3 runs, with a great stumping by Jack Stephenson & a catch in the slips by Phil Barrett. Menston closed on 150 runs for the loss of 5 wickets in their 40 overs, and Steeton collect 5 points from a comprehensive winning draw.