First XI 2012
21 April 2012 - 1st XI v Adel (H) - Won by 9 wickets (6-0)Adel 149-8 in 50 overs
Steeton 151-1 in 28.3 overs
Steeton 1st XI started the new season in the top flight with a fantastic 9-wicket victory against a lacklustre Adel side. In the closed season Steeton had strengthened their side with Craig Walton & Richard Craddock from Earby and the return of the prodigal Stephen Pearson from Upper Wharfedale. Asked to bat first Adel were restricted to 149 runs for the loss of 8 wickets in their 50 overs. Steeton’s opening bowlers both collected 2 wickets each: Ross Suri taking 2 wickets for just 19 runs from 12 overs & Jon Best taking 2 wickets for 31 runs from 9 overs. In his first match back Stephen Pearson took 2 wickets for 42 runs from 14 overs, and on his debut Richard Craddock took 1 wicket for 33 runs. The bowlers were well supported in the field with 7 of the wickets caught, and the other wicket to fall was to a run out by Mark Taylor – Mark also took a catch and so was awarded 2 fielding points. Keeper Dominic Bennett took 2 catches, as did Andrew Luxton. The other fielders to take a single catch each were Ross Suri & Stephen Pearson.
After losing debutant opener Craig Walton for 20 runs, the experienced pairing of skipper Neil Spragg (52*) & John Akrigg (61*) saw Steeton comfortably home – both finishing with unbeaten half-centuries. Neil’s unbeaten 52* runs came from 80 deliveries with 2 sixes & 5 fours; and John was clearly in a hurry as he faced just 60 balls to score his unbeaten 61* runs, which included 3 sixes & 8 fours. Steeton finished with 151 runs for the loss of just 1 wicket in 28.3 overs. Steeton made a convincing start to the season with a comprehensive 9-wicket victory and collect all 6 points.
28 April 2012 - 1st XI v Kirstall Educational (A) - Rained Off (1-1)
Steeton 1pt
Kirkstall 1pt
Steeton 1st XI travelled to Kirkstall, but were a little perplexed that no wicket was prepared & the Kirstall team made little effort to get the ground fit for a game. Shortly after the official start time the heavens opened and the pitch was then soon totally unplayable. No play at all was possible and both sides collect a single point each.
5 May 2012 - 1st XI v Follifoot (H) - Winning Draw (5-1)
Steeton 314-4 in 50 overs
Follifoot 235-6 in 50 overs
Steeton 1st XI continued their impressive season with a 5-1 winning draw at home to Follifoot. Batting first Steeton had progressed steadily to 32 runs before losing their first wicket: skipper Neil Spragg was out for 19 runs. Neil’s opening partner Craig Walton scored a maiden half-century for Steeton, finishing with 65 runs scored from 60 deliveries with 4 sixes & 7 fours. Craig shared a 2nd wicket partnership of 79 runs with the veteran John Akrigg, who went on to notch a great century – scoring 134 runs from 151 deliveries with 4 sixes & 15 fours. John went on to share a monumental 201-run 3rd wicket partnership with Australian David Wildsmith (85*). In his 3rd week David Wildsmith finally got a chance to bat and did not waste it! David scored an exciting 85* runs not out, including 4 sixes & 8 fours for just 61 balls faced.
At the interval Steeton had posted a monumental 314 runs for the loss of 4 wickets in their 50 overs. In reply Follifoot lost an early wicket to the bowling of Jon Best, who finished with 3 wickets for 55 runs from 12 overs. Follifoot’s 2nd wicket partnership looked capable of overhauling Steeton’s mammoth total until the introduction of leg-spinner Andrew Luxton (1-32), who was unlucky to only take 1 wicket. Stephen Pearson (1-33) & Richard Craddock (1-65) took a single wicket apiece as Follifoot’s momentum was slowed down and they instead set their sights on the 236-run ¾ score. Skipper Neil Spragg, John Akrigg & Andrew Luxton took single catch each, but it was the ground-fielding of Mark Taylor that earned him a fielding point. In an exciting finish Follifoot’s Michael Halmshaw smashed a six off the last ball of the innings bringing his personal score to 141* runs, and the side’s total to 235 runs for 6 wickets – a tantalising 1 runs shy of the ¾ score. Steeton collect 5 points from a thoroughly convincing winning draw.
12 May 2012 - 1st XI v Otley (A) - Won by 2 wickets (6-0)
Otley 158-9 in 50 overs
Steeton 162-8 in 45.4 overs
Having won the toss, Steeton restricted Otley to 158 runs for 9 wickets in their 50 overs. Richard Craddock (2-32) accounted for both Otley openers. Andrew Luxton was again in great form with the ball collecting 4 wickets for 46 runs from his 11 overs; and Stephen Pearson collected 3 wickets for 50 runs from 14 overs. Keeper Dominic Bennett had a good day behind the wickets with 3 catches & a stumping. Stephen Pearson took 2 catches, including a return catch from his own bowling, and there was a single catch each for Ross Suri & Australian David Wildsmith.
In reply both Steeton openers departed with 12 runs to their names: Craig Walton (12) & Neil Spragg (12) and soon Steeton were struggling at 46 runs with 4 wickets down. John Akrigg amply demonstrated the highs & lows of cricket: a fantastic century last week followed by a golden duck this week. Australian David Wildsmith kept a level head as he scored a steady 54 runs from 91 deliveries with 7 fours & added 60 runs with Mark Taylor (45) for the 5th wicket partnership. Mark scored his 45 runs from just 27 deliveries with 4 sixes & 5 fours. Jon Best chipped in with 10 runs, before it was left to Richard Craddock (15*) to guide Steeton to a 2-wicket victory. Steeton had scored 162 runs for the loss of 8 wickets in 45.4 overs to win by 2 wickets with 4 overs to spare, and leave Cross Green with all 6 points. After 4 matches Steeton are 5 points clear at the top of the 1st division.
19 May 2012 - 1st XI v Burley-in-Wharfedale (H) Losing Draw (2-4)
Burley-in-Wharfedale 281-8 in 50 overs
Steeton 242-6 in 50 overs
Having won the toss, Steeton were unable to stop the flow of runs from the Burley batsmen. Aided by at least 6 catches not being taken, Burley scored 281 runs for the loss of 8 wickets in their 50 overs. Pick of the bowling was once again leg-spinner Andrew Luxton, who took 3 wickets for 49 runs from his 9 overs with a stumping by keeper Dominic Bennett & an excellent diving catch taken Stephen Pearson. Stephen Pearson was also in great form with the ball as he took 3 wickets for 61 runs from 15 overs, with a catch taken by skipper Neil Spragg as well as a return catch from his own bowling. There was a single wicket each for James Emmott (1-71) caught by Ross Suri at long on; and Gary Boulton (1-55) confidently caught at extra cover by Craig Walton. Steeton’s poor catching had probably boosted Burley’s total by at least 30 runs.
In reply Steeton were floundering at 21 runs with 2 wickets down, before a fantastic 3rd wicket partnership of 149 runs put them well back in the game. Skipper Neil Spragg scored an excellent 92 runs from 133 deliveries with 3 sixes & 9 fours; and Australian David Wildsmith scored a magnificent 80 runs from 88 deliveries with 11 boundaries. With the asking rate rising to 10 runs per over Mark Taylor chipped in with a quick-fire 23 runs from 23 deliveries, and Andrew Luxton scored an unbeaten 21* runs from 23 deliveries. Steeton comfortably passed the 211-run ¾ score, but fell 39 runs short of Burley’s target. Steeton finished with 242 runs for the loss of 6 wickets and collect 2 points from a losing draw. ‘Catches win matches,’ goes the old adage – and dropping them certainly makes winning matches much harder.
20 May 2012 - 1st XI v Rawdon (A) in Waddilove Cup - Won by 16 runs
Steeton 200-7 in 45 overs
Rawdon 184 a/o in 44 overs
Batting first Steeton’s skipper Neil Spragg followed Saturday’s 92 runs with a top-scoring 87 runs, including 1 six & 9 fours. Having lost their first 2 wickets with only 16 runs on the board, Neil put on an impressive 3rd wicket stand of 121 runs with Australian David Wildsmith, who continued his excellent start to the season with 55 runs, including 1 six & 9 fours. Andrew Luxton (17*) & Gary Boulton (13*) saw Steeton through to a total of 200 runs for 7 wickets in their 45 overs.
Rawdon’s reply was firmly on course at 125 runs for 3 after 30 overs, until skipper Neil Spragg had is first bowl of the season…he took 4 wickets for 31 runs from his 9 overs. Paul Hardwick had been drafted in for the injured Jon Best, and Paul did not disappoint as he took 3 wickets for 33 runs. Andrew Luxton (1-33) & Ross Suri (1-26) collected a single wicket apiece, and the other wicket to fall was a run out by Stephen Pearson. Ross Suri took a return catch from his own bowling; and Neil Spragg completed a fine all-round performance with a catch. In a tense finish they beat Rawdon, who were all out for 184 runs in 44 overs. Steeton won by 16 runs to progress into the next round of the Waddilove Cup, where they will travel to Thackley on 17th June.
26 May 2012 - 1st XI v Bilton (A) - Won by 7 wickets (6-0)
Bilton 262-5 in 50 overs
Steeton 263-3 in 47.4 overs
Bilton won the toss and chose to bat first. On a good track Bilton amassed a massive 262 runs for the loss of 5 wickets in their 50 overs. The pick of the bowlers was Stephen Pearson, with 2 wickets for 56 runs from 9 overs, and there was a single wicket each for Richard Craddock (1-43), skipper Neil Spragg (1-30) & James Emmott (1-43). Bilton’s Chris Peareth (97) fell just short of his century. Mark Taylor took 3 catches; and Stephen Pearson & Richard Craddock took 1 catch apiece.
After an early setback Steeton’s reply was steadied by a 59-run 2nd wicket partnership between skipper Neil Spragg (49) & John Akrigg (30). Neil scored his 49 runs from 75 deliveries with 1 six & 5 fours; and John scored his 30 runs from 43 balls faced with 7 boundaries. Neil went on to share a 65-run stand with Australian David Wildsmith, who scored a fantastic unbeaten 99* runs. David smashed 14 boundaries as he faced 104 deliveries for his unbeaten 99* runs. When David was joined by Andrew Luxton they amassed an incredible unbroken 4th wicket stand of 119 runs. Andrew (51*) completed hid half-century from 51 deliveries with5 fours. An impressive batting display saw Steeton knock off the runs for the loss of just 3 wickets. Steeton scored 263 runs for 3 wickets in 47.4 overs, and so win by 7 wickets with 14 balls to spare. They collect 6 points which means they are now 4 points clear at the top of the table.
Full Scorecard
2 June 2012 - 1st XI v Thackley (H) - Winning Draw (4-2)
Steeton 231-4 in 50 overs
Thackley 198-9 in 50 overs
Asked to bat first Steeton scored 231 runs for the loss of 4 wickets in their 50 overs, despite Australian David Wildsmith registering his first sub-half-century total. Craig Walton (27) & skipper Neil Spragg got Steeton off to a steady start, before David Wildsmith scored 38 runs from 68 deliveries with 4 boundaries. Andrew Luxton played a great innings with an unbeaten 63* runs scored from 97 deliveries with 7 boundaries. Andrew shared a 50-run 4th wicket partnership with Mark Taylor, who needed just 28 balls to score 37 runs, including 7 fours. Andrew went on to share an even better 75-run unbroken 5th wicket stand with his brother Chris Luxton, who staked his claim to a permanent place in the side with an unbeaten 33* runs scored for 42 deliveries with 1 six & 1 four.
In reply Thackley reached 57 runs before losing their first wicket to the bowling of Richard Craddock, who was easily the pick of the bowlers with 4 wickets for 44 runs from his 15 overs, courtesy of 2 catches by skipper Neil Spragg and one by Chris Luxton. Without the injured Jon Best & with Stephen Pearson away, it was skipper Neil Spragg who opened the bowling, and Neil finished with 1 wicket for 40 runs from 9 overs, with a catch by Andrew Luxton. Andrew also took a catch to give Ross Suri (1-14) his wicket. James Emmott (1-33) had a stumping by keeper Dominic Bennett, who also was involved in running out a Thackley batsmen. With 6 overs to go Thackley were 9 wickets down, but were just 1 run away from the 174-run ¾ target. In 6 overs the Steeton bowlers were unable to dislodge the final Thackley pair, who took their score on to 198 runs for the loss of 9 wickets in their 50 overs…still 33 runs short of Steeton’s target, but easily enough to claim the second point. Steeton finished with a 4-2 winning draw, which keeps them at the top of the league, but now just 2 points clear of 2nd placed Collingham.
9 June 2012 - 1st XI v Beckwithshaw (A) - Won by 33 runs (6-0)
Steeton 167 a/o in 50 overs
Beckwithshaw 134 a/o in 48.5 overs
With the weather we have endured this last week, this fixture was never going to be a run-fest. Asked to bat first Steeton managed to score 167 all out in the last delivery of their 50 overs. Skipper & opener Neil Spragg scored 28 valuable runs from 69 deliveries with 4 boundaries. Neil shared a 38-run 2nd wicket partnership with top-scorer John Akrigg, who scored 51 runs from 78 balls faced with 7 fours. Ex-Steeton player Stuart Hudson (3-48) did what no bowler has managed this season and dismissed Australian David Wildsmith (2) for a low score, bringing his batting average down to 82! Andrew Luxton chipped in with 18 runs & Mark Taylor with 10 runs. In the conditions Dominic Bennett played a great innings for 23 runs from 33 deliveries with 2 sixes & 1 four. Helped by 15 byes Steeton had set a target of 167 runs at the tea interval…a good total in the conditions, but not unassailable.
Steeton’s bowlers all performed well. The pick of the bowlers was again Richard Craddock, who finished with 4 wickets for 50 runs from his 15 overs. James Emmott bowled 10 miserly overs, which only conceded 19 runs as he collected 2 wickets. Skipper Neil Spragg (2-33) also collected 2 wickets, and Stephen Pearson (1-30) took 1 wicket. Keeper Dominic Bennett was in great form with 3 catches and no byes! Stephen Pearson also collected 2 catches as Beckwithshaw were all out for 134 runs in 48.5 overs. Steeton won by 33 runs and leave Beckwithshaw with all 6 points. Collingham also won so Steeton remain 2 points clear at the top of the league.
16 June 2012 - 1st XI v Ben Rhydding (H) - Rained Off (1-1)
Steeton 252-4 in 46 overs
Ben Rhydding 7-0 in 2 overs
When bad weather afflicts so much of the league, then ‘sneaking’ a result despite the weather can sometimes have a dramatic effect on your league position. Every effort to get some sort of result was made…and the fixture did indeed get underway as a 46-overs per side match. Steeton lost the toss and were asked to bat first. Steeton began with a brilliant new Club record opening partnership of 217 runs: breaking a record held by David Emmott & Bryan Tunney that has stood since 1971! Opener Craig Walton completed a fantastic maiden century for Steeton from 106 balls, and was finally out for 121 runs when his helmet fell off and hit his wicket. Craig had scored 121 runs from 123 deliveries & hit 3 sixes & 15 fours. His opening partner was Chris Luxton, who scored an excellent 87 runs from 119 deliveries with 2 sixes & 10 fours. Australian David Wildsmith chipped in with an unbeaten 25* runs as Steeton closed on 252 runs for 4 wickets in 46 overs.
Ben Rhydding’s reply had reached 7 runs without loss in 2 overs, when the weather finally dictated the end of play. Another great batting display from a rampant Steeton side merely resulted in a single point for both sides.
17 June 2012 - 1st XI v Thackley (A) in Waddilove Cup - Won by losing fewer wickets
Thackley 224-9 in 45 overs
Steeton 224-4 in 45 overs
Batting first Thackley scored 224 runs for the loss of 9 wickets in 45 overs. Pick of the bowlers was Richard Craddock, who took 4 wickets for 51 runs from his 9 overs. Andrew Luxton also bowled an excellent 9 overs, which only conceded 29 runs as he collected 3 wickets. Zaggy Pearson (1-18) & Australian David Wildsmith (1-22) took a single wicket each. Keeper Dominic Bennett took 2 catches & a stumping; and there was a single catch each for Craig Walton, Zaggy Pearson & skipper Mark Taylor.
In reply Steeton both openers, who had performed so well yesterday, with the score on 36 runs: Craig Walton (18) & Chris Luxton (10). Nerves were certainly jangling when Australian David Wildsmith (1) was run out shortly after. When Andrew Luxton came in to join John Akrigg, they compiled a 122-run 4th wicket partnership before John departed with 42 runs to his name. John had scored his 42 runs from 45 deliveries with 2 sixes & 3 fours. Andrew went on to share an unbroken 5th wicket stand of 58 runs with skipper Mark Taylor, who scored 29* runs not out from 36 balls faced with 1 six. The star of the innings however was Andrew Luxton, who became the 2nd centurion of the weekend, having scored a remarkable 103* runs not out from 98 deliveries with 4 sixes & 10 fours. With 2 runs to win from the last delivery Andrew missed the ball, but managed to scamper a single through to the keeper. Steeton had also scored 224 runs, but only lost 4 wickets in their 45 overs. Incredibly with the scores tied after 45 overs, both teams left the field expecting to replay the match next week. But with the league rules as they are, to the chagrin of Thackley & delight of Steeton, Steeton were declared the winners having lost fewer wickets.
23 June 2012 - 1st XI v Guiseley (A) - Rained Off (1-1)
Steeton 1pt
Guiseley 1pt
No play possible. Match called off in the morning, without the team needing to travel.
30 June 2012 - 1st XI v Collingham (H) - Abandoned (1-1)
Steeton 112-3 in 20 overs
Collingham D.N.B.
The weather once again has decimated the cricket. Rain before the start initially reduced this to to a 42 overs per side fixture. Steeton won the toss and asked Collingham to bat first. The fixture was interrupted by frequent rain breaks and eventually was abandoned with Collingham having score 112 runs for the loss of 3 wickets in 20 overs. Both sides (along with all other teams in the top division) collect a single point each. At the mid-point of this wet season Steeton are 2 points clear at the top of top flight, having led the division from the very first match.
1 July 2012 - 1st XI v Green Lane (H) in Waddilove Cup - Won by 9 wickets
Green Lane 72 a/o
Steeton 74-1
When top of the league play 2nd division opposition you can expect a comfortable win. This proved to be the case as Green Lane were asked to bat first and were routed for just 72 runs. After 8 overs Steeton were 67 runs without losing a wicket, and completed a comprehensive 9-wicket victory, scoring 74 runs for the loss of 1 wicket. They play Ben Rhydding at home on 16th July in the semi-finals.
7 July 2012 - 1st XI v Adel (A) - Rained Off (1-1)
Steeton 1pt
Adel 1pt
Rain meant no play was possible.
14 July 2012 - 1st XI v Kirkstall Educational (H) - Won by 20 runs (6-0)
Steeton 202 a/o in 44 overs
Kirkstall 182 a/o in 49 overs
Match report will appear here.
15 July 2012 - 1st XI v Ben Rhydding (H) in Waddilove Cup - Lost by 59 runs
Ben Rhydding 257 a/o in 42 overs
Steeton 201 a/o in 49.2 overs
Match report will appear here.
21 July 2012 - 1st XI v Follifoot (A) - Lost by 38 runs (0-6)
Follifoot 210-8 in 50 overs
Steeton 172 a/o
Chasing Follifoot’s 210-8, Steeton were all out for 172 runs. Steeton leave Rudding Park with no points.
28 July 2012 - 1st XI v Otley (H) - Lost by 9 wickets (0-6)
Steeton 179 a/o in 50 overs
Otley 182-1 in 38 overs
Asked to bat first Steeton were soon struggling at 48 runs with 5 wickets down after 20 overs, with only John Akrigg (13) & Mark Taylor (12) managing double figures. Australian David Wildsmith top-scored with 36 runs scored from 74 deliveries with 1 six & 4 fours. David steadied the innings with a 42-run 4th wicket partnership with Jon Best, who finished with 34 runs from 66 deliveries with 1 six & 4 fours. Jon went on to share a 5th wicket stand of 43 runs with Richard Craddock, who scored 23 runs from 37 deliveries with 2 boundaries. With quick runs needed James Emmott provided the required fillip with 2 straight sixes & 4 fours as he needed just 19 balls to score his 30 runs. Dominic Bennett scored 11* runs as Steeton closed on 179 runs all out in exactly 50 overs.
Steeton’s bowlers could not replicate the penetration of the Otley bowlers, and so the Otley opening batsmen appeared to coast to a century opening partnership without any trouble. With Steeton ringing the changes with the bowling it was their 8th bowler Australian David Wildsmith (1-27) who broke the opening partnership with a comfortable catch at mid on by Craig Walton. Steeton tried 9 different bowlers, but none was able to stem the tide of runs or make any significant breakthrough. Otley finished with 182 runs for the loss of just 1 wicket in just 38 overs. For the 2nd week Steeton collect no points as they slump to a 9-wicket defeat.
4 August 2012 - 1st XI v Burley-in-Wharfedale (A) - Losing draw (1-5)
Burley 293-3 in 47 overs
Steeton 171-9 in 53 overs
Steeton asked Burley to bat first, but Steeton once again lacked the bowling penetration…and did not help themselves with dropped chances. Burley’s skipper Nick Brook scored 137* runs as they amassed a mammoth 293 runs for just 3 wickets before declaring after 47 overs, to give themselves an extra 3 overs to try to get Steeton all out. Jon Best took 2 wickets for 83 runs from 11 overs & the other wicket fell to Andrew Luxton (1-51) from 10 overs with a catch by John Akrigg.
In reply Steeton were once again struggling at 49 runs for 3 wickets…and then 90 runs with 6 wickets down. Top scorer for Steeton was Mark Taylor, who scored 40 runs from 45 deliveries with 1 six & 6 fours. Craig Walton (21), John Akrigg (23) & Andrew Luxton (18) all made good starts, but were unable to capitalise on them. With defeat looking inevitable Dominic Bennett (29*) & Stephen Pearson (17*) heroically batted out the final 11 overs to earn Steeton a single point from a losing draw. Steeton finished with 171 runs for 9 wickets in 53 overs and leave Hodson Park with a single point. With 6 matches to play they are now in 3rd place in the top division a tantalising 6 points off leaders Beckwithshaw.
11 August 2012 - 1st XI v Bilton (H) - Lost by 101 runs (0-6)
Bilton 212 a/o in 50 overs
Steeton 111 a/o in 35 overs
Batting first Bilton looked likely to score in excess of 250 runs, but good late bowling by Stephen Pearson & Richard Craddock reduced them to 212 all out in the final over. Pick of the bowling was Stephen Pearson, who finished with 4 wickets for 43 runs from his 12 overs, including a skied return catch from his own bowling. Richard Craddock took 3 wickets for 47 runs from 13 overs, including a catch on the boundary by Australian David Wildsmith. David also took a catch from the bowling of James Emmott (1-23). There was also a single wicket apiece for Andrew Luxton (1-36) & Jon Best (1-53).
Steeton’s reply started comfortably enough reaching 37 runs before losing John Akrigg (18) to a good slip catch. John’s opening partner Craig Walton followed for 23 runs with the score on 47 runs. Australian David Wildsmith (18) added 28 runs for the 3rd wicket with his skipper Neil Spragg (29). At the 25-over drinks break Steeton were well positioned at 92 runs for 3 wickets, but catastrophe was just around the corner. Five Steeton batsmen were out for ‘ducks’ facing a total of 11 balls. Skipper Neil Spragg top-scored with 29 runs scored from 65 deliveries with 5 boundaries, before becoming the 8th batsman to be out. Steeton lost 7 wickets in just 10 overs and collapsed to 111 all out in 35 overs. Steeton lost by 101 runs and collect no points…slipping to 4th place in the league.
18 August 2012 - 1st XI v Thackley (A) - Won by 80 runs (6-0)
Steeton 163 a/o in 48.5 overs
Thackley 83 a/o in 32.4 overs
Batting first Steeton scored 163 runs, and then crushed Thackley to 83 all out. Steeton leave Thackley with all 6 points on offer. Steeton’s total was built around a series of good partnerships: Firstly a 47-run 2nd wicket partnership between John Akrigg (32) & Australian David Wildsmith (12). John went on to share a 4th wicket stand of 35 runs with his skipper Neil Spragg (36). John had scored his 32 runs from 106 deliveries with 5 boundaries, and Neil scored his 36 runs from 49 deliveries with 5 boundaries. Neil went on to share a 27-run 5th wicket partnership with Andrew Luxton (34), before Andrew shared a 30-run 6th wicket partnership with Mark Taylor (10). Andrew had scored his 34 runs from 41 deliveries with 1 six & 4 fours. On a difficult track Steeton had scored 163 runs in 48.5 overs – a good score, but not unattainable…Steeton knew the would need to bowl well.
A fantastic opening blitz saw Thackley reduced to 12 runs with 2 wickets down..and then 47 runs with 6 wickets down. Stephen Pearson was the main destroyer with 4 wickets for 33 runs from 15 overs, with 2 catches by Australian David Wildsmith & 1 by keeper Dominic Bennett. David Wildsmith also took a catch from the bowling of Jon Best, who finished with 3 wickets for 29 runs from 10 overs. Jon also had a catch taken by skipper Neil Spragg, who bowled 6 overs & took 1 wicket for 16 runs. The Thackley reply was brought to a swift conclusion by Andrew Luxton, who took 2 wickets in 10 deliveries without conceding a single run. Thackley had been totally destroyed, and were all out for just 83 runs in 32.4 overs. Steeton won by 80 runs & leave Ainsbury Avenue with all 6 points. Steeton remain in 4th place in the league with 4 matches still play, but have halted a worrying run of defeats.
25 August 2012 - 1st XI v Beckwithshaw (H) - Rained off (1-1)
Steeton 1pt
Beckwithshaw 1pt
Rain was to play a vital role in this fixture. Play was frequently delayed with many attempts to get this fixture played between the downpours. After more than 3 hours of rain watching at 4:15pm it was decided that the pitch would not dry out sufficiently to allow a game and this match was abandoned with any play being possible. Both sides collect a single point each. Steeton remain 4th in the league, but Collingham were the only side to manage a win and are now joint leaders with Beckwithshaw.
1 September 2012 - 1st XI v Ben Rhydding (A) - Losing Draw (2-4)
Ben Rhydding 197-8 in 50 overs
Steeton 153-8 in 50 overs
Chasing Ben Ryhdding’s 197-8 in 50 overs, Steeton lost too many early wickets and could only manage 153-8 in their 50 overs thanks mainly to Australian David Wildsmith (72*) and had to settle for a 2-4 losing draw.
8 September 2012 - 1st XI v Guiseley (H) - Won by 44 runs (6-0)
Steeton 222-6 in 50 overs
Guiseley 178 a/o in 49.2 overs
Steeton batted first and scored 222 runs featuring a maiden century by Australian David Wildsmith (103). In reply Guiseley suffered to the leg-spin of Andrew Luxton, who finished with 6 wickets. As we went into the last over Guiseley looked to be comfortably achieving a losing 2-4 draw, but with 4 deliveries remaining Jon Best had Guiseley’s top-scorer Nelson (88) nicking to Stephen Pearson, who took an excellent catch in the slips. Steeton won by 44 runs and collect all 6 points.
15 September 2012 - 1st XI v Collingham (A) - Lost by 6 runs (0-6)
Collingham 143 a/o in 38.2 overs
Steeton 137 a/o in 40.1 overs
League leaders Collingham were put to the sword by Steeton, who had them reeling at 29 runs with 4 wickets down and then 56 runs with 5 wickets down. The early damage was done by Jon Best, who took 3 wickets for 23 runs from 11 overs, with a catch taken by keeper Dominic Bennett. Paul Hardwick (1-26) had a catch taken by Australian David Wildsmith; and James Emmott (1-24) took the 5th wicket. Hardacre (43) & Anderson (31) staged a middle order recovery, but both were removed by Craig Walton, who finished with 2 wickets for 21 runs from 4 overs, courtesy of a catch by John Akrigg. The tail was mopped up by skipper Neil Spragg, who took 3 wickets for 19 runs from 5.2 overs, with a 2nd catch by David Wildsmith. Collingham had been bowled all out for 143 runs in 38.2 overs.
With the league championship at stake it looked as though Collingham could falter at the last hurdle and allow Beckwithshaw in to sneak the title. However Steeton were unable to capitalise on Collingham’s lack of runs, and found themselves struggling at 41 runs with 4 wickets down. Australian David Wildsmith scored a determined 55 runs from 68 deliveries with 2 sixes & 7 fours. David shared a 61-run 5th wicket partnership with skipper Neil Spragg (25). Chris Luxton chipped in with 15 runs, but Steeton were soon reduced to 115 runs with 9 wickets down – 28 runs shy of the Collingham target. James Emmott (17) smashed a massive 6 as he added 22 runs with Paul Hardwick (4*). With victory in sight Steeton were unfortunately all out 137 runs in 40.1 overs. Steeton had lost by 6 runs, and Collingham are crowned the league champions. Steeton finish a creditworthy 4th in the league.
Second XI 2012
21 April 2012 - 2nd XI v Adel (A) - Losing Draw (1-5)Adel 198-7 in 50 overs
Steeton 95-9 in 50 overs
A strong team on paper cannot always perform when they get on grass. Batting first Adel posted a formidable 198 runs for the loss of 7 wickets in their 50 overs. Gary Boulton was the pick of the bowlers taking 4 wickets for 43 runs from 15 overs. James Emmott (2-53) also collect a couple of wickets & the only other wicket fell to David Robinson (1-15). Steeton’s catching was on form with 2 catches for keeper Gabe Manthorp, and a single catch each for Julian Higginson, David Robinson, Zach Pearson & also for Gary Boulton off his own bowling.
Steeton 2nd XI batting second were soon in dire trouble at 38 runs for the loss of 6 wickets with only opener David Robinson (13) managing double figures. Julian Higginson (44*) was determined to not go down without a fight, and his battling unbeaten 44* were scored from 104 deliveries & included 5 boundaries. Julian was ably assisted by the Steeton tail-enders as Steeton clung on desperately to try to claim a single point. Steeton finished with 95 runs for 9 wickets in their 50 overs and collect a fortunate single point. A wake-up call for the rest of the season!
28 April 2012 - 2nd XI v Rawdon (H) - Losing Draw (2-4)
Rawdon 167 a/o in 40.5 overs
Steeton 127-9 in 43 overs
At Steeton rain meant play started late with the match reduced to a 42 overs per side contest. Rawdon won the toss and rather surprisingly decided to bat first. Justifying the confidence of their captain, Rawdon raced to 46 runs in 11 overs before losing their first wicket, but soon were reduced to 84 runs for 4 wickets with 2 wickets each for James Emmott (2-38) and Paul Hardwick, who went on to finish with 3 wickets for 45 runs from 11.5 overs. When Rawdon were looking likely to post a formidable total it was the introduction of spinner Zach Pearson, who quickly polished off the tail-enders and finished with a fantastic 4 wickets for 35 runs from 6 overs. The other wicket fell to a rapid run-out by David Robinson, who also collected a nice catch. As well as a catch at point off the bowling of Paul Hardwick, Zach also took a simple return catch off his own bowling. Mick Wilson collected 2 fielding points. The final wicket was caught by keeper Gabe Manthorp giving Paul his 3rd wicket, as Rawdon closed on 167 runs all out in 40.5 overs – a good total, but not unattainable!
Steeton’s reply began badly, losing 3 wickets with just 29 runs on the board, with only Mick Wilson (18) managing double figures. David Robinson top-scored with a patient 44 runs scored from 93 deliveries, with 2 sixes & 5 fours. David shared an excellent 50-run 4th wicket partnership with Adam Hardwick, who hit 2 sixes & a four as he scored 30 runs from just 31 balls faced, before bizarrely running himself out. Wickets tumbled with regularity, and Steeton were once again staring at defeat with 9 wickets down, 111 runs on the board & 6 overs still to bat…a tense finish awaited! Ably assisted by the stalwart defence of Callum Lowe (2*), James Emmott guided Steeton safely past the 126-run ¾ score with a controlled innings of 20 runs not out from 34 deliveries, including 2 sixes. In an exciting finish Steeton had scored 127 runs for the loss of 9 wickets in 43 overs, and collect 2 points from a hard-earned losing draw.
5 May 2012 - 2nd XI v Green Lane (A) - Won by 9 wickets (6-0)
Green Lane 77 a/o in 24 overs
Steeton 79-1 in 21 overs
Nunroyd Park is a ‘happy hunting ground’ for Steeton’s spinner Zach Pearson, who collected 5 wickets for 28 runs (following his 5 wickets for 15 runs last year!) Paul Hardwick took 3 wickets for 20 runs; and with 2 run outs Green Lane were all out for just 77 runs in 24 overs. Stand-in keeper Oliver Gledhill took 2 catches & only conceded 1 bye. David Robinson collect a catch & Zach Pearson took a return catch from his own bowling. Zach Pearson & Callum Lowe were awarded a fielding point each.
Steeton’s reply had progressed to 41 runs in 14 overs before they lost their only wicket: Chris Luxton, who was out for 17 runs scored from 38 deliveries. With opener Mick Wilson in good form he scored an unbeaten 46* runs from 66 deliveries with 3 sixes & 4 fours. Steeton only lost a single wicket knocking off the meagre total & finished with 79 runs for the loss of 1 wickets scored from 21.1 overs. Steeton won by 9 wickets & leave Nunroyd Park with all 6 points and a very early finish
12 May 2012 - 2nd XI v Otley (H) - Won by 63 runs (6-0)
Steeton 166-7 in 50 overs
Otley 103 a/o in 41.4 overs
Steeton’s top-order batsmen are not yet performing as expected and so Steeton batting first were 5 wickets down with just 42 runs on the board. A great 99-run 6th wicket stand between Julian Higginson (61) & Gary Boulton (48*) helped see Steeton through to good total of 166 runs for 7 wickets in 50 overs.
In reply James Emmott was in devastating form as he took 6 wickets for 36 runs from 14 overs. Zaggy Pearson also bowled a fantastic 15 overs which only conceded 18 runs as he added a further 2 victims to his season’s tally. Otley were all out for 103 runs in 41.4 overs and Steeton collect all 6 points.
19 May 2012 - 2nd XI v Burley-in-Wharfedale (A) - Won by 84 runs (6-0)
Steeton 201-7 in 50 overs
Burley 117 a/o in 42.4 overs
Steeton’s strong batting line-up performed up to its potential, and scored 201 runs for 7 wickets in their 50 overs on a difficult wicket. Promoted to opener Chris Luxton responded by top-scoring with 59 runs; and sharing an opening partnership of 79 runs with Mick Wilson who contributed 35 runs. David Robinson (52) scored a solid half-century before skipper Hayden Tennant dropping down the order chipped in with an unbeaten 23* runs.
In reply Paul Hardwick blasted through the Burley top-order and collected a further 3 wickets for 22 runs from 13 overs. With the middle-order exposed spinner Zaggy Pearson was outstanding as he took 6 wickets for 23 runs from 11.4 overs. Adam Hardwick (1-35) chipped-in with a single wicket. Out from behind the wickets Julian Higginson took 2 catches in the slips & Paul Hardwick took 1 catch. Chris Luxton was awarded 2 fielding points. Burley were unable to cope with Zaggy’s flight & guile and were all out for 117 runs in 42.4 overs. Steeton won by 84 runs & leave Hodson Park with all 6 points.
20 May 2012 - 2nd XI v Rawdon (H) in Birtwhistle Cup - Won by 50 runs
Steeton 217-8 in 45 overs
Rawdon 167-9 in 45 overs
Batting first Steeton scored an impressive 217 runs for 8 wickets in their 45 overs. Steeton’s top 3 batsmen all made good scores, but none were able to convert good starts into a substantial contribution. Chris Luxton scored 26 runs, Mick Wilson scored 20 runs & David Robinson scored 28 runs. At 97 runs for 5 wickets Steeton were on the back foot, but an excellent 71-run 6th wicket stand between Adam Hardwick (48*) & Julian Higginson (37) put Steeton back in the driving seat. Adam scored an unbeaten 48* runs from 66 deliveries with 1 six & 3 fours; and Julian’s 37 runs came from 42 deliveries with 5 boundaries. Adam then went on to share a 38-run 7th wicket stand with Oliver Gledhill (19).
At the tea interval Steeton were ‘quietly confident’ with their 217-run target, but without the services of James Emmott, Gary Boulton & Paul Hardwick they knew they would need to bowl well. David Robinson (1-35) took the first wicket courtesy of a catch by Chris Luxton; and the 2nd wicket fell to Callum Lowe (1-21) courtesy of a confident catch by skipper Hayden Tennant. Pick of the bowlers was Adam Hardwick who took 4 wickets for just 25 runs from his 9 overs, with a nice catch at long on taken by Zaggy Pearson. Chris Karakiozakis (2-37) clean bowled 2 middle order batsmen; and spinner Zaggy Pearson (1-29) took a single wicket. Callum Lowe was awarded 2 fielding points. Rawdon closed on 167 runs for the loss of 9 wickets, so Steeton won by 50 runs and progress to the 2nd round of the Birtwhistle Cup, where they will meet Thackley at home on 17th June.
26 May 2012 - 2nd XI v Bilton (H) - Won by 6 wickets (6-0)
Bilton 243-7 in 50 overs
Steeton 245-4 in 46 overs
Batting first Bilton looked capable of topping the 300-run score, but good bowling & fielding meant Steeton kept them to 243 runs for 7 wickets in their 50 overs. Ross Suri took 3 wickets for 45 runs from 12 overs & Adam Hardwick took 2 wickets for 55 runs from 15 overs, Gary Boulton (1-46) & Paul Hardwick (1-40) took a single wicket each. Keeper Gabe Manthorp took 2 catches, as did Callum Lowe, and skipper Hayden Tennant took a well-judged catch at long off.
In reply Steeton had 3 batsmen who registered half-centuries. Opener Chris Luxton batted all the way through the innings for an unbeaten 60* runs scored from 102 deliveries with 7 fours. Chris shared a 94-run opening partnership with Mick Wilson, who scored 54 runs from just 54 balls with 1six & 10 fours. Chris went on to share an 80-run 4th wicket partnership with skipper Hayden Tennant, who scored a scintillating 58 runs from just 40 deliveries with 11 boundaries; and an unbroken 5th wicket partnership of 60 runs with Oliver Gledhill, who finished the match in emphatic style as he smashed 2 sixes & 6 fours as he scored an unbeaten 42* runs fro 30 deliveries. Steeton had scored 245 runs for the loss of 4 wickets in 46 overs. Steeton collect all 6 points to continue their good season.
2 June 2012 - 2nd XI v Tong Park Esholt (A) - Lost by 113 runs (0-6)
Tong Park 249-4 in 50 overs
Steeton 136 a/o in 47.4 overs
Steeton travelled to Esholt to play Tong Park Esholt, who scored an impressive 249 runs for the loss of just 4 wickets in their 50 overs. Pick of the Steeton bowlers was junior Luke Watson, who took 2 wickets for 20 runs from 7 overs, with catches taken by keeper Gabe Manthorp & David Robinson. Callum Lowe (1-68) took a single wicket with a catch taken by Oliver Myers; and Gary Boulton (1-60) took the other wicket with a return catch from his own bowling.
Steeton’s reply was a sorry procession of wickets with only 2 batsmen managing double figures: Gary Boulton top-scored with 40 runs from 72 deliveries with 3 sixes & 2 fours; and Gabe Manthorp scored 33 runs from 75 deliveries with 1 six & 4 fours. Sadly Steeton were all out for just 136 runs in 47.4 overs, meaning they lost by 113 runs. Outplayed in all departments Steeton leave Esholt with no points.
9 June 2012 - 2nd XI v Beckwithshaw (H) - Lost by 9 wickets (0-6)
Steeton 116 a/o in 31 overs
Beckwithshaw 117-1 in 25 overs
Asked to bat first Steeton only managed 116 runs all out in 31 overs, despite reaching 53 runs without loss in the first 7 overs; openers Chris Luxton top-scoring with 38 runs from 37 deliveries with 2 sixes & 3 fours & Gabe Manthorp scoring 24 runs from 43 deliveries with 4 fours. A rain delay meant the wicket was ‘livelier’ and Steeton slumped to 116 runs all out, with only Julian Higginson (21) managing double figures. Julian hit 4 fours as he faced 28 balls for his 21 runs.
After losing their first wicket with the score on just 4 runs, Beckwithshaw comfortably knocked off the runs for the loss of just 1 wicket. Ross Suri (1-21) was the only successful bowling courtesy of a catch by skipper Adam Hardwick. Beckwithshaw scored 117 runs for 1 wicket in 25 overs, so Steeton lost by 9 wickets and collect no points.
16 June 2012 - 2nd XI v Olicanian (A) - Rained Off (1-1)
Steeton 1pt
Olicanian 1pt
Along with all the rest of their division Steeton’s match at Olicanian was rained off. Both sides collect a single point each.
17 June 2012 - 2nd XI v Thackley (H) in Birtwhistle Cup - Won by 103 runs
Steeton 188 a/o in 42.2 overs
Thackley 85 a/o in 29.3 overs
Batting first Steeton started disastrously with both openers out in the 3rd over with the score on only 3 runs. 3 runs for 2 wickets quickly became 32 runs for 3 wickets when skipper Hayden Tennant (11) departed. A 61-run 4th wicket partnership between David Robinson (66) & Julian Higginson (22) steadied the innings. David top-scored with 66 runs from 97 deliveries including 3 sixes & 6 fours; and Julian’s 22 runs came from 34 deliveries with 5 boundaries. A further tumbling of wickets reduced Steeton to 115 runs for 7 wickets, with only Oliver Gledhill of the recognised batsmen left. For 19 deliveries Oliver was majestic as he hit 6 fours, before departing for 27 runs caught at square leg. Steeton knew they would need more runs to feel comfortable and these were provided in spectacular fashion by Callum Lowe. Callum more than doubled his previous best ever score as he smashed 1 six & 6 fours to finish with 36 runs from just 26 deliveries. Steeton’s tail had certainly ‘wagged’ and they went in for the tea interval happy to have scored 188 runs all out in 42.2 overs.
Steeton’s bowling attack can be devastating, and so it proved today. After 16 overs of their reply Thackley had lost 7 wickets and only scored 25 runs, and the result of this fixture was put beyond doubt. Paul Hardwick had claimed 4 wickets for just 10 runs from his 9 overs, with 2 catches by keeper Gabe Manthorp and 1 by Oliver Gledhill. Paul’s opening partner was Ross Suri, who took 3 wickets for just 15 runs from his 9 overs, with 2 catches taken in the slips by Mick Wilson. Adam Hardwick (1-27) had a catch taken by David Robinson, before the Thackley tail was knocked over by Callum Lowe, who finished with 2 wickets for 26 runs, with a nice slip catch taken by Julian Higginson. Thackley were all out for 85 runs in 29.3 overs. Always nice to beat Thackley, but Steeton thrashed them by 103 runs, and now meet Olicanian away on 1st July in the quarter finals of the Birtwhistle Cup.
23 June 2012 - 2nd XI v Guiseley (H) - Rained Off (1-1)
Steeton 1pt
Guiseley 1pt
For the 2nd consecutive week no play possible due to heavy rain. Match called off in the morning.
30 June 2012 - 2nd XI v Harden (A) - Abandoned (1-1)
Steeton 149-6 in 40 overs
Harden D.N.B.
Our 2nd XI travelled to Harden, but they too were a victims of the weather. In a shortened match Steeton scored 149 runs for 6 wickets declared after 40 overs. Heavy rain meant the second innings never even got started. The weather was the winner again, and both sides collect a single point each.
1 July 2012 - 2nd XI v Olicanian (A) in Birtwhistle Cup - Won by 8 wickets
Olicanian 80 a/o in 39.5 overs
Steeton 81-2 in 31.5 overs
Batting first Olicanian were skittled all out for 80 runs. Our 2nd XI scored 81 runs for the loss of 2 wickets to complete a comprehensive 8 wicket victory. They next play at either Pool or Adel on 16th July in the semi-finals.
7 July 2012 - 2nd XI v Adel (H) - Abandoned (1-1)
Steeton 230-8 in 37 overs
Adel D.N.B.
Match report will appear here.
14 July 2012 - 2nd XI v Rawdon (A) - Won by 9 wickets (6-0)
Rawdon 123 a/o in 34.3 overs
Steeton 124-1 in 28.2 overs
Match report will appear here.
15 July 2012 - 2nd XI v Pool (A) in Birtwhistle Cup - Won by 7 wickets
21 July 2012 - 2nd XI v Green Lane (H) - Won by 6 wickets (6-0)
Green Lane 166-9 in 50 overs
Steeton 167-4 in 38 overs
Batting first Green Lane scored 166 runs, which was not enough. Steeton won.
28 July 2012 - 2nd XI v Otley (A) - Lost by 7 wickets (0-6)
Steeton 210 a/o in 48.4 overs
Otley 211-3 in 40 overs
Batting first Steeton scored a respectable 210 runs all out in 48.4 overs, with good knocks by Mick Wilson (99) & David Robinson (75*). Together they added an impressive 159 runs for the 2nd wicket. When Mick was out with the score on 183 runs, David could only watch from the other end as wicket after wicket tumbled at the other end. No-one else in the Steeton side even managed double figures as they added just 27 runs for the last 8 wickets.
In reply Otley scored 211 runs for the loss of just 3 wickets in 40 overs. Steeton were unable to make any significant inroads into the Otley batting. The successful bowlers were Chris Karakiozakis (1-19) with a catch by Ross Suri, Gary Boulton (1-32) & Adam Hardwick (1-54) with a catch taken by Chris Karakiozakis. Steeton lost by 7 wickets and leave Cross Green with no points.
4 August 2012 - 2nd XI v Burley-in-Wharfedale (H) - Won by 95 runs (6-0)
Steeton 238-6 in 50 overs
Burley 143 a/o in 49.3 overs
Asked to bat first on a ‘lively’ track Steeton were once again indebted to the reliable pairing of Mick Wilson (123) & David Robinson (64). Mick & Dave added 177 runs for the second wicket with Mick scoring an impressive 123 runs from 126 deliveries with 5 sixes & 12 fours; and Dave scored 64 runs from 92 deliveries with 4 sixes & 9 fours. Skipper Adam Hardwick chipped in with 25 runs as Steeton closed with an excellent 238 runs for the loss of 6 wickets in their 50 overs.
In reply Burley batted well against a strong Steeton bowling attack, but were losing wickets regularly. Paul Hardwick was the pick of the bowlers as he finished with 3 wickets for 40 runs from his 15 overs with catches by Mick Wilson & Phil Barrett. Ross Suri (1-27) & Gary Boulton (1-15) both bowled good spells and were rewarded with a single wicket each. Skipper Adam Hardwick throwing to keeper Gabe Manthorp ran out a Burley batter, but as the final overs approached it looked as though Burley would bat out for a draw. An inspired bowling change saw the return of Zaggy Pearson, who broke the impasse with a diving catch at silly mid-on by Ross Suri that earned him 2 fielding points. Zaggy almost collected the final wicket too, but finished with remarkable figures of 6 overs, 5 maidens 1 wicket for 1 run. The final over started with James Yeadon looking for his 2nd wicket having had a smart stumping earlier by keeper Gabe Manthorp. With his 3rd delivery he induced Burley’s top-scorer J Frost (31) to spoon the ball up to skipper Adam Hardwick. An elated Steeton celebrated a last gasp victory with just 3 balls of the match remaining. James finished with the laudable figures of 2 wickets for 17 runs from 5.3 overs. Burley finished with 143 runs all out in 49.3 overs. Steeton won by 95 runs and collect all 6 points from this fixture.
11 August 2012 - 2nd XI v Bilton (A) - Winning Draw (5-1)
Steeton 272-6 in 50 overs
Bilton 181-8 in 5 overs
Mick Wilson warmed up for tomorrow’s Birtwhistle Cup final with a second successive century at Bilton. Mick scored a magnificent 135 runs from 115 deliveries with 6 sixes & 10 fours, and broke the Club’s 2nd wicket partnership as he put on 192 runs with Chris Luxton (84). Chris scored his 84 runs from 101 deliveries with 1 six & 15 fours. Julian Higginson smashed 1 six & 4 fours as he added 29 runs from 13 balls faced as Steeton closed on 272 runs for the loss of 6 wickets in their 50 overs.
In reply Bilton had reached 42 runs before Paul Hardwick (1-47) broke the opening partnership. The next 2 wickets fell to the bowling of James Yeadon, who finished with 2 wickets for 22 runs from his 10 overs, with catches by Gary Boulton & Ross Suri. Ross also took 2 catches from the bowling of Zaggy Pearson, who finished with excellent figures of 4 wickets for 42 runs from 14 overs, with a stumping by keeper Gabe Manthorp. Gabe also took a catch from the bowling of Ross Suri (1-33). A solid bowling performance saw Steeton finish with an emphatic 5 points with Bilton faltering at 181 runs for 8 wickets in their 50 overs.
12 August 2012 - 2nd XI v Guiseley at Calverley in Birtwhistle Cup Final - Lost by 8 wickets
Steeton 98 a/o in 36.2 overs
Guiseley 102-2 in 26.5 overs
Our 2nd XI made their 5th appearance in the Birtwhistle Cup final hoping to be victorious in it for the first time. They met Guiseley at Calverley’s Victoria Park ground, but disappointingly were outplayed by top-of-the-league Guiseley, who have not yet lost this season. Steeton won the toss and chose to bat first on a good Calverley track, but with only three scores in the 20s they were all out for a meagre 98 runs in 36.2 overs. Unfortunately Mick Wilson could not replicate his recent heroics and was bowled for 22 runs from 43 deliveries with 4 fours. Mick put on 25 runs for the opening partnership with Chris Luxton (11), but when Mick departed the score had slumped to 41 runs for 5 wickets. Vice-captain Adam Hardwick top-scored with 25 runs scored from 49 deliveries with 3 fours. Late, but forlorn, resistance was shown by Zaggy Pearson, who smashed 2 sixes & 1 fours as he scored 20 runs from 26 deliveries, and he was the last man out.
A paltry 98 runs was never going to be enough runs to put this strong Guiseley outfit under any pressure and they knocked them off in 26.5 overs without much trouble only losing 2 wickets in the process. Gary Boulton (1-9) took the first wicket with the score on 28 runs, courtesy of a catch in the slips by Julian Higginson. The 2nd wicket fell with the Guiseley total on 85 runs, falling to Paul Hardwick (1-23). Guiseley scored 102 runs for the loss of 2 wickets in 26.5 overs, to win the Birtwhistle Cup by 8 wickets with 18 overs to spare. Steeton kept trying right to the bitter end, but on skipper Hayden Tennant’s birthday they were unable to deliver a birthday present cup, and had to settle for their 5th runners-up medal.
Full Scorecard
18 August 2012 - 2nd XI v Tong Park Esholt (H) - Won by 5 wickets (6-0)
Tong Park 223-6 in 50 overs
Steeton 225-5 in 49.3 overs
Steeton won an important toss and asked Tong Park to bat first on a difficult wicket, that was damp with heavy overnight rain. Steeton’s bowlers were outstanding, but were not well supported in the field. Fractious criticisms within the side undermined the team’s overall performance to the benefit of Tong Park. Steeton’s poor catching probably added around 100 runs to the Tong Park total, which closed on 223 runs for the loss of 6 wickets in their 50 overs. On another day opener Paul Hardwick may have collect 7 wickets, but had to settle for 2 wickets for 54 runs from 14 overs. Paul’s opening partner was Ross Suri, whose figures were also not as impressive as they might have been – 1 wicket for 35 runs from 13 overs. With 3 wickets for 72 runs from 15 overs Zaggy Pearson finished with the best figures and bowled a great spell as Tong Park were looking to maximise their total. Keeper Gabe Manthorp took 2 catches and there was a catch apiece for Julian Higginson, Ross Suri & a return catch from his own bowling for Zaggy
Pearson.
At the tea interval Steeton knew they had let themselves down as a team, but this was all changed before they went out to bat. Steeton’s track had dried out, which resulted in an excellent opening partnership between Gabe Manthorp (36) & skipper Hayden Tennant (42). Gabe scored his 36 runs from 72 deliveries with 3 fours; and Hayden scored his 42 runs from 76 deliveries with 4 fours. Both openers went with the score on 80 runs, but this brought together the experienced pairing of Phil Barrett (25) & Julian Higginson (75) and together they added 67 runs for the 3rd wicket. Phil scored his 25 runs from 28 deliveries with 2 fours, and Julian top-scored with 75 runs scored from 68 deliveries with 4 sixes & 6 fours. Julian went on to share a 69-run 4th wicket partnership with Adam Hardwick, who contributed 24 runs from 34 deliveries with 1 six & 1 four. With victory in sight both Julian & Adam were out in the same over making for an nail-biting finish. With 3 balls to spare Zaggy Pearson (9*) smashed the boundary that brought victory. Steeton had scored 225 runs for the loss of 5 wickets in 49.3 overs, to win by 5 wickets and collect all 6 points, which has leap-frogged them into 2nd place in the league – 14 points behind leaders Guiseley with 4 matches still to play.
25 August 2012 - 2nd XI v Beckwithshaw (A) - Rained Off (1-1)
Steeton 1pt
Beckwithshaw 1pt
Rain on an already waterlogged pitch meant this fixture was called off in the morning without the team needing to travel. With most of the other matches in the league also rained off Steeton remain 2nd in the division.
1 September 2012 - 2nd XI v Olicanian (H) - Won by 4 wickets (6-0)
Olicanian 171-6 in 50 overs
Steeton 172-6 in 49 overs
A fantastic close match saw Steeton collect a further 6 points from a 4-wicket victory, achieved with just an over to spare. Asked to bat first on a damp track Olicanian were soon in trouble having scored 24 runs and lost 3 wickets at the 15-over point, but they rallied to 171 runs for 6 wickets in their 50 overs. Pick of the bowlers was undoubtedly Paul Hardwick, who took 4 wickets for 33 runs from 13 overs, with a catch by David Robinson & 2 catches by his brother Adam Hardwick, that earned him 2 fielding points. Gary Boulton (1-63) removed the dangerous Lee Jackson (56) courtesy of a low slip catch by Phil Barrett. Ross Suri beat the bat frequently, but was only rewarded with a single wicket courtesy of a sharp catch taken by Zaggy Pearson in the gully. Batting first on a damp track Olicanian had set a good target of 171 runs.
Steeton’s reply started slowly and after 8 overs they were 2 wickets down and only 10 runs on the board. Steeton’s fightback began with an 86-run 3rd wicket partnership between David Robinson (41) & top-scorer Julian Higginson (79). David scored his 41 runs from 78 deliveries with 6 fours; and Julian scored his 79 runs from 107 deliveries with 1 six & 14 fours. With the required rate creeping up to 6 runs per over Steeton lost some wickets chasing fast runs, with Adam Hardwick (14) & Phil Barrett (9) chipping in. Their victory was recorded in emphatic fashion by Gary Boulton (13*), who faced just 4 deliveries and smashed 2 massive sixes to clinch this tight match. Steeton had scored 172 runs for 6 wickets in 49 overs and collect 6 points. A Guiseley win meant Steeton’s hopes of the championship were finally extinguished, and they now need solid performances in the final 2 fixtures to maintain their 2nd position.
8 September 2012 - 2nd XI v Guiseley (A) - Losing Draw (1-5)
Guiseley 341-6 in 50 overs
Steeton 251-9 in 50 overs
Batting first Guiseley ensured their unbeaten record continued as they amassed 341 runs for the loss of 6 wickets in their 50 overs. Spinner Zaggy Pearson took 2 wickets for 64 runs from 12 overs, including a catch from his own bowling. Opening bowlers Ross Suri (1-52) & Paul Hardwick (1-83) took a single wicket each. Spinner Adam Hardwick (1-61) also collected a single wicket with a catch taken by Gary Boulton. The other Guiseley wicket fell to a run out by Paul Hardwick.
Steeton’s reply began with a solid 43-run opening partnership between Adam Hardwick (44) & Mick Wilson (18). Adam scored his 44 runs from 36 deliveries with 10 fours and went on to share a 3rd wicket partnership of 23 runs with Julian Higginson (13). Julian was also involved with a 44-run 4th wicket partnership with Gary Boulton (42). Gary smashed 2 sixes & 5 fours as he scored his 42 runs from just 35 deliveries. At the 25 overs drinks break Steeton were 124 runs with 5 wickets down, with a further uncomfortable 25 overs trying to stave off defeat. Batting down the order skipper Hayden Tennant scored a fantastic unbeaten 84* runs from 60 deliveries with 1 six & 12 fours. Hayden was well supported by Steeton’s tail; with 11 runs for Luke Watson & 15 runs for Paul Hardwick. After their 50 overs Steeton were 9 wickets down with 251 runs. Pride maintained, but Steeton had to settle for a 1-5 losing draw
15 September 2012 - 2nd XI v Harden (H) - Won by 1 run (6-0)
Steeton 124 a/o in 39.4 overs
Harden 123 a/o in 42.4 overs
Last matches of the season are often a letdown, but this match was a thriller right down to the last wicket. Batting first Steeton were soon in trouble at 54 runs with 5 wickets down with only the veterans Mick Wilson (13) & Julian Higginson (15) managing double figures. Saviour for Steeton was junior Luke Watson, who deserved a half-century, but had to settle for a splendid 48 runs from 60 deliveries with 1 six & 6 fours. Steeton were all out for a meagre 124 runs in 39.4 overs, with all 10 batsmen out caught!
Opening the bowling David Robinson (2-17) got Steeton off to an excellent start as he removed took the first 2 Harden wickets with just 6 runs on the board, courtesy of catches by Gary Boulton & Luke Watson. Gary Boulton also took 2 wickets for 39 runs with a catch by Adam Hardwick. Adam also took 2 catches from the bowling of spinner Zaggy Pearson, who finished with great figures of 3 wickets for 34 runs from 15 overs…keeper Gabe Manthorp taking the other catch. As the match neared an exciting finale Ross Suri came back for a second bowling spell and took 2 wickets for 21 runs from 12.4 overs, with a 2nd catch by keeper Gabe Manthorp & another catch for Zaggy Pearson. Harden’s last partnership needed 16 runs to clinch victory and with the score on 122 runs a reckless attempt at a 2nd run was punished by skipper Hayden Tennant’s good ground fielding and throw to David Robinson, who deftly removed the bails to run out Harden’s last batter. With 1 of the runs counting. Harden were all out for 123 runs in 42.4 overs a tantalising 1 run short of a tie. In this fixture an amazing 18 wickets fell to catches. Steeton win by the narrowest margin of 1 run, and collect 6 points to ensure they finish in a laudable 2nd place in the top division.
Third XI 2012
29 April 2012 - 3rd XI v Horsforth (H) - Rained off (1-1)Steeton 1pt
Horsforth 1pt
Cold, wet & windy was the forecast…and so it proved to be. This fixture was cancelled on Saturday, not play possible. Both sides collect a single point.
6 May 2012 - 3rd XI v Green Lane (A) - Won by 5 wickets (6-0)
Green Lane 160-6 in 40 overs
Steeton 161-5 in 28.5 overs
A great weekend for Steeton CC was completed by our 3rd XI, who beat Green Lane at Nunroyd Park by 5 wickets with 11 overs to spare. Steeton won the toss and gave Green Lane first use of a damp track. The pick of the bowlers was Danny Hanson, who took 2 wickets for 26 runs from his 7 overs, with catches taken by James Yeadon & Luke Watson. James Yeadon also finished with 2 wickets for 38 runs from 10 overs with an edge taken by keeper Jack Stephenson. There was a single wicket each for Luke Watson (1-27) caught by Danny Austick & Ben Wilson (1-27) with a second catch by James Yeadon. Aided by an incredible 28 extras (22 from wides & no-balls) Green Lane scored 160 runs for the loss of 6 wickets in their 40 overs.
Steeton needed 4 runs per over, but after the first 10 overs they were scoring at almost 6 runs per over. Skipper Mark Chapman was in great form, scoring an unbeaten 86* runs from 77 deliveries with 2 sixes & 11 fours. Mark shared a 2nd wicket partnership of 35 runs with Oliver Myers, who contributed 16 runs, and an even better unbroken 6th wicket stand of 55 runs with Luke Watson, who contributed 23* runs not out from 35 deliveries with 2 fours and a six to complete Steeton’s victory. Assisted by 17 wides, Steeton had scored 161 runs for the loss of 5 wickets in 28.5 overs to win by 5 wickets and collect all 6 points on offer.
13 May 2012 - 3rd XI v Harden (H) - Won by 3 wickets (6-0)
Harden 120-7 in 40 overs
Steeton 121-7 in 27.4 overs
A comprehensive weekend for Steeton CC was completed by our 3rd XI, who beat Harden at home. After Callum Lowe (2-30) took a wicket with the very first ball of the match, Harden scored 120 for 7 runs in their 40 overs. James Yeadon was the pick of the bowlers with 4 wickets for 23 runs from his 10 overs, and was a little unlucky not to collect a hat-trick. Luke Watson (1-30) was the other successful bowler. Phil Barrett took 2 catches and an excellent diving catch by Nikhil Keshwala earned himself a fielding point.
In reply Mark Chapman (29) was again top-scored – his 29 runs coming from 46 deliveries with 5 boundaries. Mark shared a 26-runs 2nd wicket stand with Oliver Gledhill (12) followed by a 35-run 4th wicket partnership with Phil Barrett (24). Phil scored all his runs in boundaries as he faced 26 deliveries and smashed 6 fours for his 24 runs. After a quick shuttering of wickets in the middle order it was cool-hand Luke Watson (13*) who saw Steeton to the brink of safety putting on 34 runs for the 7th wicket with Jack Stephenson (21). Jack scored his 21 runs from 28 deliveries with 4 fours. Steeton finished with 121 runs for 7 wickets in 27.4 overs, to win by 3 wickets with 12 overs to spare and collect all 6 points.
27 May 2012 v Bilton (H) in Chappell Cup Won by 6 wickets
Bilton 128-8 in 40 overs
Steeton 130-4 in 22 overs
Steeton completed a hat-trick of wins against Bilton, when our 3rd XI sent Bilton reeling out of the Chappell Cup. Bilton won the toss and at 62 runs after 15 overs it was looking like a good toss to win. Bilton lost their first wicket with 62 runs on the board, but then went on to be 128 runs for the loss of 8 wickets in their 40 overs. Pick of the bowlers was spinner Charlotte Boulton, who took 4 wickets for 41 runs courtesy of 2 catches by Nikhil Keshwala, a slip catch by Phil Barrett & a stumping by Jack Stephenson. Keeper Jack Stephenson & James Yeadon took catches off the bowling of Luke Watson, who took 2 wickets for 16 runs. Skipper Chris Karakiozakis (1-12) took a single wicket, and was involved in a run out of a Bilton batsman from a through by James Yeadon.
At the tea interval Steeton were confident that they had kept Bilton to a below par total. An opening stand of 20 runs was broken when Charlotte Boulton was bowled out having contributed 10 runs. Her opening partner Mark Chapman went on to score 40 runs from 58 deliveries with 6 boundaries. Mark shared a 30-run 2nd wicket partnership with Oliver Myers, who scored 17 runs; followed by an even better 63-run 3rd wicket stand with skipper Chris Karakiozakis, who smashed 2 sixes & 5 fours as he scored 37 runs from just 20 deliveries. With victory in sight Mark was out leaving Phil Barrett (8*) & Luke Watson (5*) to hit the winning runs. Steeton had scored 130 runs for the loss of 4 wickets in just 22 overs, to win by 6 wickets with 18 overs to spare. Steeton progress to the quarter final of the Chappell Cup, where they now meet Ilkley at home on 10th June.
3 June 2012 - 3rd XI v Thackley (A) - Rained Off (1-1)
Steeton 1pt
Thackley 1pt
Persistent heavy rain meant this fixture was called off. The team did not travel to Thackley.
10 June 2012 - 3rd XI v Ilkley (H) in Chappell Cup - Lost by 6 wickets
Steeton 115 a/o in 30.1 overs
Ilkley 116-4 in 23.2 overs
Steeton 3rd XI crashed out of the Chappell Cup to a strong Ilkley outfit. Asked to bat first Steeton were 76 runs for 2 wickets at drinks: the batsmen out being Mark Chapman, who had scored 14 runs from 41 deliveries with 2 boundaries before being clean bowled; and Oliver Myers who had faced 15 deliveries and hit 2 fours as he scored 15 runs before being unluckily run out. After the drinks break Danny Hanson & Phil Barrett (9) were out from consecutive deliveries with the score on 80 runs. Danny Hanson had top-scored with 26 runs from 53 deliveries with 1 six & 1 four. After skipper Chris Karakiozakis was out for 9 runs the Steeton tail began to crumble, with only young debutant Ryan Birch showing any resistance. Ryan scored a battling 15 runs from 16 deliveries with 2 fours. Steeton had lost 8 wickets and only added a further 35 runs, and finished on 115 runs all out in 30.1 overs.
Despite claiming their first wicket with Ilkley’s reply only on 14 runs, and their second with the total on 35 runs, the Steeton’s bowlers were unable to induce a ‘Steeton-like’ collapse in the Ilkley middle order. Danny Austick (1-45) took the first wicket with a catch taken by Mark Chapman at mid-on. James Yeadon finished with 2 wickets for 33 runs from his 8 overs, with a smart catch taken by keeper Jack Stephenson. The only other wicket was to skipper Chris Karakiozakis (1-13). Ilkley knocked off the runs for the loss of just 4 wickets with 16 overs to spare. Ilkley had scored 116 runs for 4 wickets in 23.2 overs, and so Steeton lose by 6 wickets and will play no further part in this years Chappell Cup.
24 June 2012 - 3rd XI v Horsforth Hall Park (H) - Won by 57 runs (6-0)
Steeton 161-8 in 40 overs
Hall Park 104 a/o in 31 overs
A damp wicket, but fine weather meant that the Sunday fixture was played without interruption. Steeton lost the toss and were asked to bat first on a ‘sticky’ wicket. Oliver Myers (7) added 27 runs for the 2nd wicket partnership with Phil Barrett, who scored 28 runs from 52 deliveries with 4 fours. Luke Wtson (15) added 33 for the 4th wicket with skipper Chris Karakiozakis, who top-scored with 42 runs scored from 42 deliveries with 3 sixes & 3 fours. Chris went on to add 48 runs for the 5th wicket with Jack Stephenson, who contributed 13 runs, before both were out with the Steeton score on 120 runs. Youngster Ryan Birch was again in good form as he scored 10 runs, and added 23 runs for the 7th wicket with Danny Austick, who went on to score a fine unbeaten 20* runs from 33 deliveries with 1 boundary. Steeton went in at the tea interval happy to have scored 161 runs for the loss of 8 wickets in their 40 overs.
In reply Hall Park lost wickets regularly to Steeton’s excellent bowling attack. James Yeadon removed both openers and finished with 3 wickets for 25 runs from 7 overs. Luke Watson (1-32) removed the Hall Park dangerman, Usman. Skipper Chris Karakiozakis blitzed the middle-order batsmen and finished with 3 wickets for just 12 runs from 8 overs. With storm clouds looking capable of spoiling the match Danny Austick needed just 2 overs to complete the rout, as he collected 3 wicket for 11 runs. Steeton took 7 catches, with 2 for Nikhil Keshwala, 2 for skipper Chris Karakiozakis (including a return catch from his own bowling) and 1 each for keeper Jack Stephenson, Gabe Manthorp & youngster Ryan Birch. Skipper Chris Karakiozakis had a exemplary all-round performance with 42 runs, 3 wickets for 12 runs & 2 catches! Hall Park finished with 104 runs all out in 31 overs, meaning Steeton win by 57 runs. On this wet weekend it is great to get some cricket played, and even better to collect all 6 points on offer, which keeps Steeton firmly at the top of their conference.
8 July 2012 - 3rd XI v Burley-in-Wharfedale (H) - Rained Off (1-1)
Steeton 1pt
Burley 1pt
No play possible due to rain
5 August 2012 - 3rd XI v Horsforth (A) - Won by 24 runs (6-0)
Steeton 123-4 in 29 overs
Horsforth 99 a/o in 26.4 overs
Another impressive display by our 3rd XI saw them collect another 6 points from a victory gained despite the weather. Batting first Steeton’s opener Mark Chapman scored 15 runs and shared a 59-run 2nd wicket partnership with Charlotte Boulton (36). Charlotte scored a career-best 36 runs from 60 deliveries with 3 fours. With rain clouds looming skipper Chris Karakiozakis scored a rapid unbeaten 40* runs from just 29 deliveries with 1 six & 6 fours. Rain arrived after 29 overs and Steeton declared at 123 runs for the loss of 4 wickets.
When the rain relented the Horsforth batting was scattered by Luke Watson, who finished with great figures of 4 wickets for 25 runs from 7 overs. Skipper Chris Karakiozakis collected 2 wickets for 20 runs with a catch by young keeper Ryan Birch. Spinner Charlotte Boulton finished with identical figures of 2 wickets for 20 runs to cap a fine all round performance. The final 2 Horsforth wickets were collected by Danny Hanson, who conceded just 11 runs. Horsforth were all out for 99 runs in 26.4 overs and so Steeton win by 24 runs. Steeton leave Horsforth’s King George’s Ground with all 6 points, which keeps them firmly on top of their conference.
12 August 2012 - 3rd XI v Green Lane (A) - Winning Draw (4-2)
Steeton 228-8 in 40 overs
Green Lane 183-7 in 40 overs
This was in fact a home fixture, which it was agreed would both start early (11am) & be played away at Nunroyd Park so that the 3rd XI could get to Calverley to support our 2nd XI as they play the Birtwhistle Cup final. Opener Mark Chapman scored a fine 57 runs from 74 deliveries with 8 fours, and shared a 65-runs 2nd wicket partnership with Danny Hanson (24). However for those few who were at Green Lane this will be remembered as Nikhil Keshwala’s match. Coming into this match Nikhil had only scored a grand total of 3 runs with an average of under 1. Promoted up the batting order to the No4 spot, Nikhil repaid his captain’s faith in him by scoring a quite incredible 79 runs from 70 deliveries with 11 boundaries. Nikhil shared a 3rd wicket partnership of 95 runs with Mark Chapman. With Steeton trying to maximise their total they lost late wickets, with skipper Chris Karakiozakis (21) & Phil Barrett (14) both giving quick-fire cameos. Steeton went in to lunch having scored 228 runs for the loss of 8 wickets in their 40 overs.
In reply Steeton’s poor catching meant Green Lane were able to score more than they perhaps should. Luke Watson (1-46) broke the opening partnership with the score on 10 runs, but Nikhil’s glory day was still not over as he collected 2 wickets for 20 runs from 5 overs. There was also 2 wickets each for skipper Chris Karakiozakis (2-45), with a catch off his own bowling & smart stumping by Jack Stephenson; and also Charlotte Boulton (2-37), with catches by Danny Austick & Luke Watson on the long-off boundary. With light rain starting to fall Steeton’s priority changed to getting through the final overs quickly, and Green Lane finished with a respectable 183 runs for 7 wickets in their 40 overs. Steeton leave their ‘home’ fixture at Nunroyd Park with 4 points from a winning draw.
19 August 2012 - 3rd XI v Harden (A) - Won by Forfeit (6-0)
Steeton 6pt
Harden 0pt
This fixture was forfeited by Harden, who were unable to raise a team.
26 August 2012 - 3rd XI v Thackley (H) - Rained off (1-1)
Steeton 1pt
Thackley 1pt
Further rain on an already sodden pitch meant this match was also unable to be played. No cricket for any of our teams this weekend.
2 September 2012 - 3rd XI v Horsforth Hall Park (A) - Won by 187 runs (6-0)
Steeton 213-7 in dec 31.3 overs
Hall Park 26 a/o in 12 overs
Batting first Steeton’s solid batting display began with opening batsman Jake Hill, who scored 61 runs from 60 deliveries with 11 fours. Jake shared a 47-run 2nd wicket partnership with Oliver Myers (15), followed by an even better 4th wicket stand of 83 runs with his skipper Chris Karakiozakis (71). Chris top-scored with a magnificent 71 runs scored from just 51 deliveries with 4 sixes & 7 fours. Luke Watson hit 3 boundaries as he scored 16 runs, and in his first senior innings 13 year old Bradley Akrigg hit 1 six & 1 four as he scored 16 runs. When Steeton lost their 7th wicket after 31.3 overs they declared with 213 runs.
In reply Danny Hanson ran out the Hall Park skipper before they had scored a single runs. Steeton’s bowling attack was devastating: Danny Austick bowled 6 overs and took 5 wickets for 14 runs, including a return catch from his own bowling; and James Yeadon also bowled 6 overs and took 3 wickets for 7 runs, including a catch by Bradley Akrigg. The 10-men of Hall Park were all out for just 26 runs in 12 overs – the lowest total for which Steeton 3rd XI have ever dismissed any side. An impressive performance means Steeton win by 187 runs & collect all 6 points taking their points tally to 44 points…ensuring they are through to the play-offs as champions of Conference A.
9 September 2012 - 3rd XI v Burley-in-Wharfedale (A) - Won by 68 runs
Steeton 156 a/o in 39.4 overs
Burley 88 a/o in 33.3 overs
Batting first Steeton scored 156 runs all out in 39.4 overs with valuable contributions from; opener Mark Chapman, who scored 34 runs with 7 fours; skipper Chris Karakiozakis, who scored 27 runs with 5 fours; Luke Watson, who top-scored with 36 runs including 2 sixes & 2 fours; and Oliver Myers, who scored 16 runs with 2 fours. Luke added a Club record 33 runs for the final wicket with Danny Austick (9*).
At the tea interval Steeton knew they had managed a good score on a difficult track with very low bounce. In reply Burley also struggled with the lack of bounce. James Yeadon took 3 wickets for 16 runs from 7.3 overs; skipper Chris Karakiozakis was the pick of the bowlers with 4 wickets for 19 runs from 6 overs; and Charlotte Boulton took 3 wickets for 25 runs from 9 overs, including a good low catch taken by Luke Watson. Burley-in-Wharfedale were all out for 88 runs in 33.3 overs, meaning Steeton won by 68 runs. Steeton have now got 50 points and have gone through an entire league season without losing a single match.
16 September 2012 - 3rd XI v Guiseley (H) in Conference Play Off Semi Finals - Won by Bowl Out
Steeton 201-8 in 40 overs
Guiseley 36-1 in 5 overs
Asked to bat first Steeton’s innings was launched by an excellent opening partnership of 91 runs in 20 overs before Charlotte Boulton was out for 24 runs scored from 63 deliveries with 4 fours. Charlotte opened with skipper Mark Chapman, who went on to top-score with a faultless 65 runs scored from 90 deliveries with 12 boundaries. With wickets in the tent an injection of runs was called for and Phil Barrett responded with 2 sixes & 1 four as he smashed 28 runs from just 18 deliveries; Jake Hill smashed 1 six & 1 four as he scored 15 runs from 18 deliveries; and Jack Stephenson smashed 1 six & 4 fours as he scored an unbeaten 28* runs from 27 deliveries. Helped by 25 extras, including 12 wides, at the tea interval Steeton had scored 201 runs for the loss of 8 wickets in their 40 overs.
Guiseley would need to score at just over 5 runs per over to challenge the Steeton target. After 5 overs Guiseley had reached 36 runs and had just lost their first wicket to the bowling of Danny Hanson (1-4) when the persistent light rain started to become heavier – rain and bad light meant the match could not be finished and would be decided by a bowl out…
Steeton started well with Luke Watson hitting once, and Guiseley missing both theirs. Charlotte Boulton came close to hitting, but the score remained 1-0 to Steeton after round 2. Danny Hanson hit to extend Steeton’s lead to 2-0; before skipper Mark Chapman stepped up. Mark hit with both balls, Guiseley missed with both and Steeton were 4-0 up and coasting through. When Guiseley’s 4th bowler missed with his first ball Steeton were 4 up with only 3 balls to come from Guiseley, and Steeton were declared winners. Steeton 3rd XI are now through to the conference play off final next Sunday 23rd September at home against Ilkley.
23 September 2012 - 3rd XI v Ilkley (H) in Conference Play Off Finals - Won by 3 wickets
Ilkley 137 a/o in 37.5 overs
Steeton 140-7 in 25.3 overs
Asked to bat first Ilkley were soon in trouble with James Yeadon taking the first 3 wickets with only 22 runs on the board for Ilkley. James finished with 4 wickets for 25 runs from 7 overs. Luke Watson (1-19) & Danny Hanson (1-19) both bowled excellently and were rewarded with a single wicket each. Jake Hill only bowled 1 over but took 2 wickets for 5 runs. The tail was mopped up by skipper Chris Karakiozakis, who finished with 2 wickets for 19 runs from 6.5 overs. Steeton’s fielding and catching was exemplary, beginning with an sharp return catch taken by James Yeadon. Chris Karakiozakis made 2 difficult outfield catches look easy, and there were comfortable catches taked by Mark Chapman, Luke Watson & Danny Hanson. A great fielding & bowling performance saw Ilkley all out for 137 runs in 37.5 overs.
At the tea interval Steeton knew that they had the advantage, but a damp track and slow outfield would make the total difficult to overhaul. Charlotte Boulton (24) & Mark Chapman (52) got Steeton off to a solid start with a 65-run opening partnership. Charlotte scored her 24 runs from 51 deliveries with 3 fours and a great six over point. Mark scored his 52 runs from 55 deliveries with 1 six & 6 fours. Phil Barrett smashed 2 sixes & 2 fours as he added 22 runs from just 18 deliveries. Phil added 27 runs for the 5th wicket with his skipper Chris Karakiozakis, who hit 1 six & 1 four as he scored 12 runs from 13 balls faced. With 7 wickets down the match was brought to an abrupt conclusion by Luke Watson (6*) who won the match with a massive six, which went so far it must have gone into orbit! Steeton had scored 140 runs for the loss of 7 wickets in 25.3 overs to win by 3 wickets with 14 overs to spare. Steeton are the 3rd XI champions.