Fixtures 2017

2nd XI3rd XI

First XI 2017

22 April 2017 - 1st XI v Adel (A) - Lost by 23 runs (6-20)

Adel 230-7 in 50 overs

Steeton 207 a/o in 48.1 overs

The 2017 season got underway with our 1st XI travelling to Church Lane to face Adel. Steeton lost the toss and were asked to field first. Adel had progressed without any problems to 31 runs when opening bowler Josh Gill ripped out the first 2 wickets with a double wicket maiden. Josh went on to finish with great figures of 4 wicket for 54 runs from 12 overs, courtesy of 2 catches by keeper Andrew Foulds and also one by James Emmott. The other wickets to fall went to Steeton’s spinners: Zach Pearson with 2 wickets for 44 runs, with catches taken by Josh Gill & Tom Stead; and Tom (1-16) also claiming the other wicket. Debutant Jake Starkey was awarded a fielding point. Adel had scored a good total of 230 runs for the loss of 7 wickets in their 50 overs. 5 batting points for Adel & 3 bowling points for Steeton

Steeton’s reply was building nicely as we approached the century mark with all our wickets intact, but both openers perished with the score on 92 runs. Veteran John Akrigg had scored 28 runs from 67 deliveries with 1 six & 4 fours, but he was eclipsed by a fine 62 runs from 59 deliveries with 12 fours by Andrew Foulds. David Robinson (16) helped the score to 118 runs when Steeton lost 3 wickets without adding to the score. An excellent start was squandered as Steeton’s middle order was swept aside and in the 30th over we were 7 wickets down for 124 runs. Stubborn late order resistance was provided by James Emmott (40) & skipper Paul Hardwick (33) as they added 57 battling runs for the 8th wicket partnership. James finished with 40 runs from 52 deliveries with 1 six & 5 fours, while Paul scored his 33 runs from 44 deliveries with 3 boundaries. When they departed the match was quickly wound up with Steeton succumbing to 207 runs all out in 48.1 overs. Steeton (6 points) lost to Adel (20 points) by 23 runs.

My Man-of-the-Match for Steeton was Andrew Foulds

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29 April 2017 - 1st XI v Skipton (H) - Won by 72 runs (20-6)

Steeton 283-5 in 50 overs

Skipton 211 a/o in 48 overs

It is many years since Steeton last played local rivals Skipton. Steeton lost the toss and were asked to bat first as they played their first home fixture of the season. Steeton had progressed to 33 runs, before losing opener Andrew Foulds with 18 runs to his name. Veteran opener John Akrigg continued to register a fine 46 runs – scored from 94 deliveries with 7 boundaries. John added 105 runs for the 3rd wicket partnership with Craig Walton, who went on to complete a fabulous century. Craig finshed with a fantastic 125 runs from 126 deliveries with 1 six & 22 fours. Craig added 134 for the 4th wicket partnership with Tom Stead, who deserved a half-century, but had to settle for a good 49 runs scored from 45 deliveries with 1 six & 6 fours. Steeton closed with a considerable 283 runs for the loss of 5 wickets in their 50 overs. At the tea break Steeton already had 5 batting points, while Skipton had 2 bowling points.

In reply Skipton had reached 42 runs before skipper Paul Hardwick (1-36) broke the opening stand by removing his brother Adam Hardwick (18), caught out by James Emmott. Opening bowler Stephen Pearson collected 2 wickets for 58 runs from his 15 overs, with catches taken by John Akrigg & Tom Stead. James was the pick of the bowlers, with 3 wickets for 46 runs from 9 overs, with a catch safely pouched by David Robinson. Steeton’s spinners shared the remaining wickets with 2 wickets for 34 runs for Zach Pearson, with a catch by skipper Paul Hardwick & a return catch from his own bowling; and also 2 wickets for 9 wickets for Tom Stead, with a catch taken by keeper Andrew Foulds. Skipton had been bowled all out for 211 runs from 48 overs. Steeton (20 points) beat Skipton (6 points) by 72 runs.

My Man-of-the-Match was Craig Walton

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6 May 2017 - 1st XI v Kirkstall Educational (A) - Lost by 199 runs (5-20)

Kirkstall Educational 327-9 in 50 overs

Steeton 128 a/o in 26 overs

Kirkstall won the toss and chose to bat first on a good track at the Field of Dreams. Steeton got off to the best possible start when Steve Pearson (1-72) took a wicket with the first ball of the game – caught by keeper Andrew Foulds. James Emmott (2-69) took a brace of wickets with a catch taken by skipper Paul Hardwick, which had Kirkstall on the back-foot at 95 runs with 5 wickets down in the 29th over. Pick of the bowlers was skipper Paul Hardwick, who took 3 wickets for 79 runs from his 14 overs, including the wicket of Kirkstall’s double-centurian Wilkinson (201) caught by Tom Stead. Tom (2-76) also had a brace of wickets and there was a run out by Jake Starkey, but Wilkinson’s mammoth contribution helped Kirkstall to 327 runs for the loss of 9 wickets in their 50 overs. 4 bowling points for Steeton, but 5 batting points for Kirkstall.

Steeton’s reply started badly with 4 wickets back in the pavilion and only 20 runs on the board in the 6th over. Opener John Akrigg was still there and when he was joined by Jake Starkey, Steeton began a minor revival. John and Jake added 90 runs for the 5th wicket in 15 overs. John top-scored with 57 runs scored from 55 deliveries with 11 boundaries; and Jake scored 36 runs from 45 deliveries with 4 boundaries. When Jake was run out Steeton lost their last 4 wickets adding just 6 runs. Steeton were all out for just 128 runs from only 26 overs. Steeton (5 points) lost to Kirkstall Educational (20 points) by 199 runs.

My Man-of-the-Match for Steeton was John Akrigg

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13 May 2017 - 1st XI v Calverley (H) - Won by 7 wickets (19-1)

Calverley 113 a/o in 25.3 overs

Steeton 114-3 in 30.5 overs

Steeton won the toss and gave Calverley first use of the Summerhill Lane track. The decision to ask Calverley to bat proved an excellent one, as Calverley’s top-order were put to the sword by Stephen Pearson, who claimed 3 of the first 4 wickets as Calverley slumped to 19 runs with 4 wickets down. Steve finished with 3 wickets for 36 runs from 9 overs, assisted by good catches taken by James Emmott & Bradley Akrigg. It was then the turn of skipper Paul Hardwick to totally demolish the middle-order as Calverley were reduced to 71 runs with 7 wickets down. Paul finished with a 5-wicket haul 5 wickets for 42 runs from 12 overs…again ably assisted by good catching by Craig Walton, Steve Pearson, keeper Andrew Foulds & Jake Starkey. Calverley’s tail took their total past the 100 mark, but were soon finished of by James Emmott (1-27) with a catch taken by Tom Stead. It was Tom (1-4) who then took the final wicket with a second catch pouched by Craig Walton. Bradley Akrigg & James Emmott were awarded fielding points as Calverley could only muster 113 runs all out in 25.3 overs.

Steeton’s reply also started badly losing opener Andrew Foulds (8) who had scored all the first 8 runs. The experienced John Akrigg did not allow Steeton to collapse and he put together a 2nd wicket partnership of 35 runs with David Robinson (19), followed by a 44-run 3rd wicket partnership with Craig Walton (19). Finally he had a match winning unbroken 4th wicket stand of 27 runs with Tom Stead (19*). John finished with a careful 34 runs scored from 101 deliveries with 6 boundaries. Steeton had scored 114 runs for the loss of 3 wickets in 30.5 overs, meaning Steeton (19 points) had beaten Calverley (1 points) by a very convincing 7 wickets.

Paul Hardwick is my Man-of-the-Match

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14 May 2017 - 1st XI v Horsforth (A) in Waddilove Cup - Lost by 7 wickets

Steeton 167-8 in 45 overs

Horsforth 173-3 in 31.1 overs

Steeton won the toss and elected to bat first at King George’s Field in the first round of the Waddilove cup…hopeful of progressing in the season that the Club is hosting the event for the first time. Father and son Akriggs opened the innings, but the family effort was unfortunately short-lived with Bradley (7) departing with the score on 9 runs. John continued and added a solid 58 runs for the 2nd wicket with Craig Walton, who contributed 29 runs from 44 deliveries with 4 boundaries, and then 30 runs for the 4th wicket with Tom Stead (12). John finally departed with 48 runs scored from 110 deliveries with 1 six & 4 fours. leaving Steeton 113 runs for the loss of 5 wickets. Jake Starkey tried to ‘up’ tempo and played a cameo innings of 23 runs from 18 deliveries with 1 six & 3 fours. Late runs were added by Luke Watson (13) & James Emmott (11*), but Steeton closed on 167 runs for the loss of 8 wickets in their 45 overs.

Skipper Paul Hardwick had Horsforth reeling as he removed both openers with just 28 runs on the board, and he finished with 2 wickets for 38 runs from 7 overs, with catches safely taken by Steve Pearson & Luke Watson. After this early success wickets became hard to come by, and only although Steeton tried 9 different bowlers, only Zach Pearson (1-24) was successful, courtesy of a stumping by keeper Jake Starkey. Horsforth romped to 173 for the loss of 3 wickets in 31.1 overs. Steeton lost to Horsforth by 7 wickets and will take no further part in the Waddilove cup…other than to host it!

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

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20 May 2017 - 1st XI v Addingham (A) - Abandoned (3-3)

Steeton 3pt

Addingham 3pt

No play possible due to rain – both sides collect 3 points


27 May 2017 - 1st XI v Tong Park Esholt (H) - Won by 21 runs (18-7)

Steeton 179 a/o in 39.1 overs

Tong Park Esholt 158 a/o in 34.4 overs

Steeton won the toss and elected to bat first on a warm & sunny day at Summerhill Lane. After 14.3 overs with the score on 28 without loss & both openers (John Akrigg & Freddie Pearson) on 14 runs apiece the heavens opened. The match was delayed with over 100 minutes lost to rain. When the rain relented Freddie Pearson (16) only added a further 2 runs before he departed with the score on 34 runs. John Akrigg went on to share a substantial 79-run 2nd wicket partnership with Craig Walton. John had scored 48 runs from 73 deliveries with 2 sixes & 3 fours; while Craig had scored a quickfire 40 from just 28 deliveries with 2 sixes & 5 fours. Steeton’s 113 runs for 2 wickets soon became 116 runs with 4 wickets down and then 132-5. Playing his first match for almost 2 years Chris Baines (13) added 20 runs for the 6th wicket stand with David Robinson, who finished with 21 runs scored from 21 balls faced with 3 boundaries. A cameo knock of 12 runs by James Emmott saw Steeton to a total of 179 runs all out in 39.1 overs.

Tong Park’s replay began poorly as they were reduced to 30 runs with 3 wickets down. Chief destroyer for Steeton was skipper Paul Hardwick, who finished with a great 5-wicket haul of 5 wickets for 38 runs from 10 overs, with catches taken by Bradley Akrigg & Zaggy Pearson. Paul was ably assisted by last season’s skipper Steve Pearson, who finished with 3 wickets for 54 runs from 11.4 overs with catches taken by keeper Chris Baines & skipper Paul Hardwick. James Emmott (2-31) also took 2 wickets, with a catch taken by John Akrigg. With the last pair at the wicket it took a spectacular one-handed catch by skipper Paul Hardwick to finish them off – Paul was awarded 2 fielding points. Tong Park Esholt had been bundled all out for 158 runs from 34.4 overs. Steeton (18 points) by Tong Park Esholt (7 points) by 21 runs.

Paul Hardwick is my Man-of-the-Match

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3 June 2017 - 1st XI v Thackley (A) - Lost by 2 wickets (8-18)

Steeton 214-8 in 50 overs

Thackley 215-8 in 38 overs

Steeton won the toss and elected to bat first at Thackley’s North Hall ground. Steeton had an excellent 90-run 2nd wicket partnership between Freddie Pearson (43) & Andrew Foulds (44). Freddie scored his 43 runs from 59 deliveries with 1 six & 6 fours, while Andrew scored his 44 runs from 64 deliveries with 8 boundaries. Craig Walton chipped in with 12 runs, but Steeton were wobbling at 130 runs with 5 wickets down. At No7 Bradley Akrigg (34*) added stability to the later order. Bradley shared a 22-run 6th wicket partnership with David Robinson, who contributed 26 runs from 48 deliveries with 5 boundaries. Bradley then went on to share an excellent 55-run 7th wicket partnership with James Emmott, who contributed 32 runs from just 21 deliveries with 1 six & 4 fours. Bradley finished with an unbeaten 34* runs scored from 40 deliveries with 2 sixes & 3 fours…and Steeton closed with 214 runs for the loss of 8 wickets in their 50 overs.

In reply Thackley were losing wicket…but scoring quickly. Pick of the Steeton bowlers was left-arm quickie Joe Stead, who took 3 wickets for 55 runs from 10 overs, with a catch taken by keeper Andrew Foulds. Joe’s opening partner was skipper Paul Hardwick, who collected 2 wickets for 56 runs from 11 overs, with a catch taken by Bradley Akrigg. Bowling for Steeton for the first time Freddie Pearson also collected 2 wickets for 30 runs from 5 overs, courtesy of a stumping by keeper Andrew Foulds as well as a return catch taken from his own bowling. James Emmott (1-40) had a catch taken by Craig Walton. As Thackley closed quickly on the target they were losing wickets, but Steeton were unable to claim the last 2 wickets. A fractious match could have swung Steeton’s way if Thackley’s batter, who went on to win the match for them had been given out when Steeton believed he had ‘gloved’ a bouncer from Joe Stead through to the keeper before scoring his first run. Tom Stead & Bradley Akrigg were awarded the fielding points. Thackley scored 215 runs for the loss of 8 wickets from 38 overs, but Steeton would surely rue a chance not given; a simple dropped chance as well as donating Thackley 38 runs as extras! Steeton (8 points) lost to Thackley (18 points) by 2 wickets.

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

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10 June 2017 - 1st XI v Leeds Modernians (H) - Drawn (10-11)

Leeds Modernians 207 a/o in 44.3 overs

Steeton 174-9 in 43 overs

Steeton won the toss and asked Leeds Modernians to bat first in this first ever meeting of Steeton and Leeds Modernians. Steeton’s opening bowlers soon had Leeds Modernians in trouble at 48 runs with 3 wickets down. Joe Stead with 2 wickets for 45 runs with a catch taken by John Akrigg, and Steve Pearson (1-44) collected a catch from his own bowling. Skipper Paul Hardwick (1-47) had a catch taken by Craig Walton, but it was undoubtedly James Emmott. James bowled a fantastic 14.3 overs which conceded just 50 runs as he collected 6 wickets, ably assisted by catches safely taken by Paul Hardwick, Craig Walton, Steve Pearson & Bradley Akrigg. For his 2 catches Craig Walton was awarded the fielding points. Leeds Modernians were reduced to 105 runs with 7 wickets down, but a century stand for the 8th wicket meant they finished with 207 runs all out in 44.3 overs.

Rain reduced the number of overs available for Steeton’s reply to 43 overs, meaning a Steeton win was only possible if they scored sufficient runs…and a Leeds Modernians win was only possible if they managed to get Steeton all out. Steeton’s talisman opener John Akrigg was hampered by a bad back, so Steeton opened up with David Robinson (17)  and John’s son Bradley Akrigg (29) – an opening partnership of 18 runs ensued. Bradley scored his 29 runs from 82 deliveries with 3 boundaries, and he added 68 runs for the 3rd wicket with Toms Stead, who top-scored with 38 runs from 38 deliveries with 1 six & 4 fours. John Akrigg attempted to bat at No4, but limped off after collapsing having faced just 1 delivery. Steeton were struggling at 88 runs with 5 wickets down. After his success with the ball, it was now time for James Emmott to repeat his heroics with the bat. James scored a superb 31 runs from just 25 deliveries with 6 boundaries, and shared 28-run 6th wicket partnership with Jake Starkey (7) and an 18-run 7th wicket partnership with Luke Watson (4), but when he departed Steeton had scored 136 runs with 8 wickets down. Skipper Paul Hardwick (7) added 18 runs for the 9th wicket with Joe Stead (11*). Steeton were 154 runs with 9 wickets down in 37 overs when John Akrigg again limped to the middle to join Joe Stead. If they could bat through 6 overs then the match would be drawn! They were able to stave off defeat and even added an unbroken 20 runs for the 10th wicket. Steeton had scored 174 runs for the loss of 9 wickets in 43 overs. Steeton (10 points) drew with Leeds Modernians (11 points)

James Emmott is my Man-of-the-Match for Steeton

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17 June 2017 - 1st XI v Follifoot (A) - Lost by 2 wickets (6-18)

Steeton 154 a/o in 42.1 overs

Follifoot 158-8 in 39 overs

Steeton won the toss and decided to bat first at Rudding Park. Steeton’s top-order did not back up the decsion to bat first as they collapsed to 38 runs with 3 wickets down, with only Freddie Pearson (19) of the top 3 making double figures. Freddie scored his 19 runs from 34 deliveries with 1 four. Tom Stead (28) steadied the innings with a 28-run 4th wicket stand with Craig Walton (30). Tom scored his 28 runs from 48 deliveries with 4 boundaries, while Craig scored his 30 runs from 43 deliveries with 4 boundaries. Steeton had slumped to 98 runs with 6 wickets down before top-scorer Jake Starkey (36) shared an excellent 49-run 7th wicket partnership with James Emmott (19). Jake scored his 36 runs from 65 deliveries with 7 boundaries, while James scored his 19 runs from 21 deliveries with 4 boundaries. When they departed the innings was brought to a rapid close, with Steeton registering a below-par 154 runs all out from 42.1 overs. 2 batting points for Steeton and 5 bowling points for Follifoot.

In reply Steeton had Follifoot teetering at 58 runs with 3 wickets down. As well as running out one of the batsmen, skipper Paul Hardwick took 2 wickets for 42 runs from 10 deliveries, with catches taken by Steve Pearson & Freddie Pearson. James Emmott (1-19) bowled 8 tight overs & Steve Pearson (1-41) removed Follifoot’s top scorer, Williams (68), although Steeton were convinced they had him caught behind before he was off the mark. The Follifoot middle-order was dismantled by Joe Stead, who finished with the best figures of 3 wickets for 38 runs from 6 overs with catches taken by John Akrigg & keeper Jake Starkey. John Akrigg & Freddie Pearson were awarded fielding points. Steeton’s meagre total did not cause too much worry for Follifoot, who passed the Steeton target with 2 wickets and 18 overs to spare. Follifoot scored 158 runs for the loss of 8 wickets in 39 overs. Steeton (6 points) lost to Follifoot (18 points) by 2 wickets.

Joe Stead is my Man-of-the-Match for Steeton.

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24 June 2017 - 1st XI v Horsforth Hall Park (H) - Won by 4 wickets (18-4)

Hall Park 147 a/o in 43.1 overs

Steeton 148-6 in 42.3 overs

Steeton won the toss and asked Horsforth Hall Park to bat first at Summerhill Lane. Opening bowler Joe Stead (2-39) got Steeton off to a great start as he had removed both openers and Hall Park were only on 38 runs. Joe had catches taken by keeper Jake Starkey & John Akrigg. Skipper Paul Hardwick (2-25) clean bowled both the No3 batsman and then in a 2nd spell also mopped up the No11 batter. Between Paul’s 2 wickets Stephen Pearson & James Emmott both collected 3 wickets apiece. Stephen Pearson bowled a great 13 overs and took 3 wickets for 38 runs with a catch taken by skipper Paul Hardwick; while James Emmott bowled a tidy 10 spell which conceded 36 runs as he collect 3 wickets, courtesy of catches by Craig Walton, Steve Pearson & Andrew Foulds. John Akrigg & Freddie Pearson were awarded fielding points as Hall Park were bowled all out for a below par 147 runs from 43.1 overs. 5 bowling points for Steeton and just 1 batting point for Hall Park.

Steeton’s reply was anchored by the veteran opener John Akrigg, who top-scored with 45 runs scored from 98 deliveries with 1 six & 6 fours. John shared a 33-run 2nd wicket partnership with David Robinson, who contributed 15 runs; followed by a 46-run 3rd wicket partnership with Andrew Foulds, who scored 21 runs from 45 deliveries with 3 boundaries. Finally John added 30 runs for the 5th wicket with Tom Stead, who went on to score an excellent 37 runs from 58 deliveries with 6 boundaries. Tom took Steeton to the brink of victory before being clean bowled, leaving the task of completing the victory to Jake Starkey (14*). Steeton had scored 148 runs for the loss of 6 wickets in 42.3 overs. Steeton (18 points) beat Horsforth Hall Park (4 points) by 4 wickets.

Stephen Pearson is my Man-of-the-Match

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1 July 2017 - 1st XI v Ben Rhydding (A) - Lost by 81 runs (7-20)

Ben Rhydding 261-8 in 50 overs

Steeton 180 a/o in 43.5 overs

Ben Rhydding won the toss and chose to bat first. Steeton made early inroads into the Ben Rhydding batting, who were 2 wickets down and only 20 runs on the board. Opening bowler Joe Stead had taken the first 2 wickets and finished with 3 wickets for 67 runs from 12 overs, with a catch taken by skipper Paul Hardwick. Steeton were made to toil for the 3rd wicket as Ben Rhydding added 158 runs before they lost their next wicket. Their 178 runs for 3 wickets quickly became 195 runs for 6 wickets as skipper Paul Hardwick blasted out the middle order. Pick of the bowlers was skipper Paul Hardwick, who took 4 wickets for 52 runs from his 15 overs, with catches taken by Tom Stead & Stephen Pearson. Tom Stead was awarded 2 fielding points. Stephen Pearson (1-60) was the only other bowler to have any success as Ben Rhydding made good first use of the track and scored a formidable 261 runs for the loss of 8 wickets in their 50 overs.

Steeton’s reply began well with a 51-run opening stand, followed by an even better 69-run 3rd wicket partnership. Talisman John Akrigg was the major contributor in both stands as he scored a gritty 75 runs from 118 deliveries with 10 boundaries. John’s partner for the 3rd wicket stand was Andrew Foulds, who contributed a fine 26 runs from 46 deliveries with 1 six & 2 fours. Tom Stead played a cameo innings of 16 runs, but when he departed 144 runs with 4 wickets down rapidly became 152 runs with 9 wickets down as the lower middle order imploded. With the match now a lost cause, Steeton ended the innings with an excellent 28-run final wicket partnership between Stephen Pearson (16*) and Joe Stead (9), which earned Steeton another batting point. In a fractious match the Ben Rhydding target proved too many for Steeton, who were 180 runs all out in 43.5 overs. Steeton (7 points) lost to Ben Rhydding (20 points) by 81 runs.

May Man-of-the-Match for Steeton was John Akrigg

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8 July 2017 - 1st XI v Adel (H) - Won by 6 wickets (18-7)

Adel 226-7 in 50 overs

Steeton 229-4 in 46 overs

Adel won the toss and on a warm sunny day at Summerhill Lane made the obvious decision to bat first. The Adel opening partnership was broken at 26 runs by Joe Stead (1-35) with a catch taken by James Emmott. Adel’s other opener was removes by skipper Paul Hardwick (1-46) with a return catch taken from his own bowling. There was then a brace of wickets each for James Emmott & Josh Gill. James’s 2 wickets came from 14 overs at a cost of 68 runs with a catch taken by Paul Hardwick, while Josh’s 2 wickets were both clean bowled as his 8 overs went for 46 runs. Paul Hardwick also ran out another Adel batsman, but his 2 catches and a run out were not enough to earn the fielding points which went to John Akrigg & Tom Stead. Adel closed on 226 runs for the loss of 7 wickets in their 50 overs. So 5 batting bonus points for Adel and 3 bowling bonus points for Steeton.

Steeton’s reply began well with a great opening partnership of 126 runs in 25 overs between top-scorer John Akrigg (74) & Freddie Pearson (48). John scored his 74 runs from 105 deliveries with 14 boundaries, while Freddie scored his 48 runs from 63 deliveries with 1 six & 6 fours. A quick shuttering of wickets meant 126 runs with 1 wicket down soon became 4 wickets down for 141 runs in the 32nd over…which brought together Tom Stead & Craig Walton. Together Tom & Craig crafted the second impressive partnership for Steeton, as they amassed a match-winning, unbroken 88-run 5th wicket stand. Tom finished with 24* runs not out from 40 deliveries with 1 six & 2 fours, while Craig finished with an masterful 62* runs not out from 45 balls faced, including 2 sixes & 11 fours. Steeton had scored 229 runs for the loss of 4 wickets in 46 overs. In a convincing performance Steeton (18 points) beat Adel (7 points) by 6 wickets.

John Akrigg & Craig Walton are my joint (just to annoy Jimmy!) Men-of-the-Match

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15 July 2017 - 1st XI v Skipton (A) - Lost by 31 runs (7-20)

Skipton 245-7 in 50 overs

Steeton 214 a/o in 46.5 overs

Having won the toss and chosen to bat first, Skipton scored 245 runs for 7 wickets. Joe Stead (1-26) broke the opening partnership with the score on 23 runs, courtesy of a catch by cousin Freddie Pearson. Skipper Paul Hardwick & Stephen Pearson took a brace of wickets apiece. Paul (2-54) had catches taken by Stephen Pearson & John Akrigg, to remove Paul’s brother Adam Hardwick (49); and Stephen (2-53) had 2 catches taken by keeper Andrew Foulds. Gary Boulton (1-38) had a stumping by Andrew Foulds, and James Emmott (1-65) removed Skipton’s top-scorer – Khan, who had scored 64 runs from just 30 deliveries. It was largely thanks to Khan’s late onslaught that Skipton posted 245 runs for the loss of 7 wickets in their 50 overs. Paul Hardwick & Freddie Pearson were awarded the fielding points as Steeton collected 3 bowling bonus points, but the full 5 batting bonus points for Skipton.

In reply Steeton lost talisman John Akrigg second ball, before Freddie Pearson (19) compiled a 59-run 2nd wicket partnership with David Robinson (58). Freddie scored his 19 runs from 32 deliveries with 3 boundaries, and David scored a well earned half-century…his 58 runs coming from 67 deliveries with 2 sixes & 7 fours. David went on to share a 50-run 3rd wicket partnership with another half-centurian, Andrew Foulds, whose 59 runs came from 88 deliveries with 2 sixes & 7 fours. A further excellent 4th wicket stand of 52 runs between Andrew Foulds (59) & Tom Stead (18) saw Steeton in a strong position at 161 runs with 4 wickets down. Tom’s 18 runs came from 27 balls faced with 2 boundaries. Only James Emmott of Steeton’s last 6 batsmen managed double figures. James scored 37 runs from 31 deliveries, including 2 sixes & 4 fours. Steeton slumped from 161-4 to being all out for 214 runs in 46.5 overs. Steeton (7 points) lost to Skipton (20 points) by 31 runs.

Andrew Foulds is my Man-of-the-Match for Steeton

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22 July 2017 - 1st XI v Kirkstall Educational (H) - Won by 2 wickets (20-8)

Kirkstall Educational 206 a/o in 37.1 overs

Steeton 207-8 in 51.1 overs

Steeton lost the toss and Kirkstall elected to bat first at Summerhill Lane. Opening bowler Joe Stead (1-34) got Steeton off to a great start, breaking the opening partnership in the first over with just 1 run on the board. The other opener was run out when he doubted the arm of 14-year-old debutant Will Luxton. Will whipped in the ball from the boundary and the run out was completed by keeper Oliver Gledhill. Pick of the Steeton bowlers was James Emmott, who collected a great 5-wicket haul…his 5 wickets costing 63 runs from 15 overs, with 3 catches taken by Tom Stead & 1 each for Steve Pearson & Bradley Akrigg. Steve & Bradley were awarded the fielding points. Steve Pearson (2-73) collected 2 wickets with a catch taken by keeper Oliver Gledhill and a catch from his own bowling. Skipper Paul Hardwick (1-16) needed just 1 ball in his second spell to complete the demolition of Kirkstall, who were all out for 206 runs in 37.1 overs.

To win Steeton would have 62 overs to score 207 runs…at 3½ runs per over. Father & son, John & Bradley Akrigg opened the innings for Steeton, but both were back in the tent with just 35 runs on the board. Youngster Will Luxton came in at No3 and played a fantastic 1st XI debut innings of 46 runs scored from 71 deliveries with 9 boundaries. Will shared a 40-run 3rd wicket partnership with David Robinson (17), but when Will was run out Steeton were 75 runs with 4 wickets down in the 23rd over. This brought together Tom Stead (41) with Oliver Gledhill (53) and they compiled an impressive 5th wicket partnership of 81 runs in the next 13 overs. Tom scored his 41 runs from 62 deliveries with 2 sixes & 4 fours, but the main impetus of the innings was injected by Oliver Gledhill, whose 53 runs came from just 42 deliveries, including 3 sixes & 6 fours. When Tom was out Steeton were 181 runs with 6 wickets down, but 4 overs later they were  teetering on 187 runs with 8 wickets down. James Emmott saw Steeton through to victory with an unbeaten 22* runs scored from 35 deliveries with 4 boundaries. Steeton had scored 207 runs for the loss of 8 wickets from 51.1 overs. Steeton (20 points) beat Kirkstall Educational (8 points) by 2 wickets.

James Emmott is my Man-of-the-Match

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29 July 2017 - 1st XI v Calverey (A) - Lost by 23 runs (7-18)

Calverey 189 a/o in 50 overs

Steeton 166 a/o in 44.4 overs

Steeton lost the toss and Calverley decided to bat first at Victoria Park. Both openers were removed by Josh Gill with only 36 runs on the board. Josh finished with 2 wickets for 32 runs from 6 overs, with a catch taken by John Akrigg. His opening partner was Joe Stead, who also took 2 wickets at a cost of 55 runs from his 13 overs. Steve Pearson (1-47) collected a single wicket courtesy of a catch by keeper Jake Starkey, but the pick of the bowlers with another 5-wicket haul was James Emmott. James took 5 wickets for just 29 runs from his 15 overs, with catches taken by Will Luxton, Josh Gill, Craig Walton & Tom Stead. Tom was awarded a fielding point. When Joe Stead claimed his 2nd wicket it was the last ball of Calverley’s 50 overs, and it brought to an end a 45-run final wicket partnership. Calverley had scored 189 runs all out in exactly 50 overs.

In reply Steeton lost their talisman John Akrigg, with only 4 runs on the board. John’s opening partner was skipper Tom Stead, who went on to score 27 runs from 38 deliveries with 3 boundaries. Tom shared a 2nd wicket partnership of 27 runs with Aatif Modak (7) followed by a 26-run 3rd wicket partnership with Will Luxton, who contributed 30 runs from 73 deliveries with 3 boundaries. Craig Walton chipped in with 12 runs, but Steeton had slipped to 96 runs with 7 wickets down. James Emmott scored 19 runs from 19 balls faced, and added 22 runs for the 8th wicket with Steve Pearson. With Steeton at 130 runs for 9 wickets Steve was joined by cousin Joe Stead (7) and together they added a further 36 runs for the final partnership. Steve was left high and dry, top-scoring with an unbeaten 34* runs scored from 57 deliveries with 2 sixes & 2 fours. Neither team has yet managed to win away from home this season. Steeton scored 166 runs all out in 44.4 overs. Steeton (7 points) lost to Calverley St Wilfrid’s (18 points) by 23 runs.

James Emmott is my Man-of-the-Match for Steeton

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5 August 2017 - 1st XI v Addingham (H) - Lost by 4 wickets (7-20)

Steeton 205 a/o in 50 overs

Addingham 207-6 in 44.5 overs

Steeton won the toss and chose to bat first at Summerhill Lane. Steeton’s innings was led by the veteran John Akrigg, who top-scored with 39 runs scored from 89 deliveries with 6 boundaries, but when John departed Steeton were 71 runs with 3 wickets down in the 28th over with only youngster Will Luxton (11) managing double figures. John had shared an excellent 3rd wicket partnership with Andrew Foulds, who contributed a fine 32 runs from 74 deliveries with 3 boundaries. Andrew went on to add 37 runs for the 4th wicket with skipper Tom Stead, who contributed 25 runs from 31 deliveries with 1 six & 2 fours. In the 43rd over Steeton were 140 runs with 7 wickets down with James Emmott  (35*) coming to join Jake Starkey (20) and together they added a fantastic 53 runs for the 8th wicket in 6 overs. Jake scored 20 runs from just 15 deliveries with 1 six & 2 fours, while James scored an unbeaten 35* runs from just 20 deliveries with 3 sixes & 2 fours. Steeton closed with 205 runs all out from the last ball of their 50 overs.

In reply Addingham were wobbling with 3 wickets down for 24 runs in the 8th over. Joe Stead in particular bowled a fine opening blast and he finished with 4 wickets for 58 runs from his 15 overs, courtesy of a catch in the slips taken by John Akrigg, which earned him a fielding point. Unfortunately the only other successful bowlers were Steve Pearson (1-49) & James Emmott (1-52), with a catch taken by skipper Tom Stead. Addingham had scored 207 runs for the loss of 6 wickets in 44.5 overs. Steeton (7 points) lost to Addingham (20 points) by 4 wickets.

Joe Stead is my Man-of-the-Match for Steeton

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12 August 2017 - 1st XI v Tong Park Esholt (A) - Lost by 25 runs (6-17)

Tong Park 159 a/o in 47.4 overs

Steeton 134 a/o in 45.4 overs

Steeton won the toss and chose to bowl/field first after overnight rain. Steeton’s opening bowlers both took 3 wickets: Joe Stead took 3 wickets for 26 runs from 7 overs; and skipper Paul Hardwick took 3 wickets for 34 runs from 13 overs. Promoted 2nd XI skipper Gary Boulton (1-10) collected a single wicket and Stephen Pearson (2-49) took couple of wickets, including a catch from his own bowling. David Robinson was awarded a fielding point. On a difficult track Tong Park had registered 159 runs all out in 47.4 overs.

In reply only Chris Luxton (12) of the top 3 batsmen managed double figures. David Robinson top-scored with 44 runs scored from 84 deliveries with 1 six & 3 fours. David had good support from Craig Walton, who scored 39 runs from 54 deliveries with 1 six & 3 fours. Steeton’s tail-end did not ‘wag’ and only Stephen Pearson (10) could manage double figures. Steeton were all out for 134 runs in 45.4 overs, and the season-long aversion to winning away from home continues. Steeton (6 points) lost to Tong Park Esholt (17 points) by 25 runs.

David Robinson is my Man-of-the-Match for Steeton

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19 August 2017 - 1st XI v Thackley (H) - Won by 10 wickets (20-0)

Thackley 53 a/o in 21.4 overs

Steeton 57-0 in 9.2 overs

Thackley travelled to Steeton on a ‘must win’ mission to avoid relegation. Steeton won a important toss and not surprisingly asked Thackley to bat first after heavy recent downpours. Skipper Paul Hardwick ensured his was a good decision as he collected a fantastic 9 wickets for just 19 runs from 10.4 overs – the best return by any Steeton bowler in a league fixture. Paul had catches taken by Steve Pearson & Oliver Gledhill as well as a catch from his own bowling. The only other bowler used was Joe Stead (1-30) courtesy of a good slip catch by John Akrigg. John Akrigg & Steve Pearson were awarded fielding points. Thackley had been skittled all out for just 53 runs in 21.4 overs.

In reply Steeton opened with the oldest and the youngest players on the side. Veteran John Akrigg scored an unbeaten 23* runs from 28 deliveries with 4 boundaries along with youngster Will Luxton, who scored an unbeaten 24* runs from 28 deliveries with 3 boundaries. Steeton had cruised to 57 runs without loss in 9.2 overs. Steeton (20 points) beat Thackley (0 points) by a resounding 10 wickets.

Paul Hardwick is my Man-of-the-Match

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26 August 2017 - 1st XI v Leeds Modernians (A) - Won by 47 runs (16-7)

Steeton 317-5 in 50 overs

Leeds Modernians 271-3 in 50 overs

Steeton travelled to Leeds Modernians without yet managing an away win this season. Steeton lost the toss and were asked to bat first. Dependable opener John Akrigg notched another half-century…his 57 runs coming from 90 deliveries with 1 six & 9 fours. John shared a 30-run opening partnership with youngster Will Luxton (9) followed by an excellent 76-run 2nd wicket partnership with Andrew Foulds, who contributed 37 runs from 51 deliveries with 1 six & 3 fours. Craig Walton added 46 runs for the 5th wicket with Tom Stead, and in the process Craig scored a rapid 40 runs from 34 deliveries with 8 boundaries. This fillip to the scoring rate was then amplified by Tom Stead & Jake Starkey as they blasted an unbroken 142-run 6th wicket partnership. Tom Stead finished with an unbeaten 94* runs scored from just 48 balls faced, including 4 sixes & 10 fours, while Jake Starkey finished with an unbeaten 61* runs from only 32 deliveries with 5 sixes & 4 fours. A great batting performance meant Steeton had finished with a commanding 317 runs for the loss of 5 wickets in their 50 overs.

The Leeds Modernians reply was a bizarre one, which began in rapid time, but rather fizzled when they lost a few early wickets. Leeds Mods raced to 82 runs with 3 wickets down, but then did not lose any more wickets, but neither did they show any attempt to challenge the Steeton target. Mahmood (100*) scored a century and added 189 unbroken runs for the 4th wicket with Rogers (79*). The Steeton bowlers shared the 3 wickets: skipper Paul Hardwick (1-65) could not find the same form as his 9-wicket haul of last week…and even donated 22 wides!; Steve Pearson (1-46) took a return catch from his own bowling; and the final wicket fell to James Emmott (1-59). Steve Pearson & Will Luxton were awarded a fielding points. Leeds Modernians finished with an impressive 271 runs for the loss of just 3 wickets in their 50 overs, but seemed to lack the ambition to push on for victory. Steeton have now broken their ‘away fixture’ duck for the season and are now comfortably placed at 6th in the table – 42 points above any relegation worries! Steeton (16 points) beat Leeds Modernians (7 points) by 47 runs.

Tom Stead is my Man-of-the-Match

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2 September 2017 - 1st XI v Follifoot (H) - Lost by 95 runs (4-18)

Follifoot 178-9 in 50 overs

Steeton 83 a/o in 26 overs

Steeton won the toss and elected to field first. Batting first Follifoot got off to a poor start and were 5 wickets down with just 67 runs on the board. The late order showed good resistance and they finished with a below par 178 runs for the loss of 9 wickets in their 50 overs. Steeton’s bowling was spear-headed by Steve Pearson who finished with 3 wickets for 37 runs from 15 overs with 2 catches by John Akrigg as well as a catch from his own bowling. The only other successful bowler was 2nd XI skipper Gary Boulton, who also took 3 wickets for 26 runs from 8 overs with a third catch by John Akrigg as well as a catch by Tom Stead. The other 3 wickets to fall went to run outs with 2 credited to Will Luxton and 1 to skipper Paul Hardwick. With 3 catches to the oldest player on the side and 2 run outs for the youngest player, the fielding points went to John Akrigg & Will Luxton.

Steeton’s reply was disastrous as they slumped to 34 runs with 7 wickets down with only opener John Akrigg (11) managing double figures. The only partnership of any note was 34 runs added for the 9th wicket by top-scorer Jake Starkey (20) and Gary Boulton (17*). Jake scored his 20 runs from 45 deliveries with 3 boundaries & Gary scored his unbeaten 17* runs from 15 deliveries with 3 boundaries. Steeton were all out for an embarrassing 83 runs in 26 overs. Steeton (4 points) lost to Follifoot (18 points) by 95 runs.

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

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9 September 2017 - 1st XI v Horsforth Hall Park (A) - Cancelled (3-3)

Steeton 3pts

Hall Park 3pts

Steeton travelled to Hall Park and watched the rain showers make a wet pitch even wetter, before it was decided that no play would be possible. This fixture was promptly cancelled at 1:30pm with both sides collecting 3 points.


16 September 2017 - 1st XI v Ben Rhydding (H) - Lost by 8 wickets (2-18)

Steeton 133-7 in 32 overs

Ben Rhydding 137-2 in 20.1 overs

Before play could start rain had reduced this fixture to 32 overs per side. Steeton lost an important coin toss and were unsurprisingly asked to bat first. In the 13th over Steeton were tottering at 48 runs with 3 wickets down and only Freddie Pearson (20) managing double figures. Freddie scored his 20 runs from 37 deliveries with 3 boundaries. Coming in at No4 David Robinson top-scored with 33 runs scored from 45 balls faced with 4 boundaries, but when David departed in the 21st over Steeton were 70 runs for 5 wickets. Tom Stead chipped in with 16 runs including 2 sixes, but his departure saw Steeton slip to 98 runs for the loss of 7 wickets in the 26th over. Some respectability was restored to the Steeton score by the only decent partnership of the innings. Craig Walton (30*) shared an unbroken 35-run 8th wicket stand with Luke Watson (15*), with Craig scoring his unbeaten 30* runs from 42 deliveries with 2 boundaries. Steeton finished with 133 runs for the loss of 7 wickets in their 32 overs.

In reply Steeton were unable to make any serious inroads into the Ben Rhydding batting. The first wicket fell to skipper Paul Hardwick (1-15) with a catch taken by David Robinson and Ben Rhydding were 20 runs with 1 wicket down in the 6th over. The second wicket fell to Luke Watson (1-26) with a high catch taken by Paul Hardwick and Ben Rhdding were 49 runs for 2 wickets in the 11th over. Paul’s catch earned him a fielding point. Ben Rhydding did not lose any further wicket as they crashed 88 runs in the next 9 overs. Ben Rhydding scored 137 runs for the loss of just 2 wicket in just 20.1 overs. Steeton (2 points) lost to Ben Rhydding (18 points) by 8 wickets.

David Robinson is my Man-of-the-Match for Steeton

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1st XI3rd XI

Second XI 2017

22 April 2017 - 2nd XI v Adel (H) - Lost by 3 wickets (6-20)

Steeton 188 a/o in 42.4 overs

Adel 189-7 in 49.1 overs

Asked to bat first on a sunny spring afternoon on an excellent-looking track at Summerhill Lane, Steeton’s openers took the score rapidly to 54 runs in the 10th over, before Aatif Modak was adjudged LBW with 17 runs to his name. Aatif’s opening partner was Chris Luxton, who went on to top-score with an excellent 60 runs scored from 66 deliveries with 3 sixes & 7 fours before he departed to an excellent diving catch in the covers. Chris’s brother Andrew Luxton chipped in with 16 runs, but then Steeton’s middle order collapsed as we lost 4 wickets adding just 14 runs…Steeton were 116 runs for the loss of 6 wickets when skipper Gary Boulton strode to the crease. Gary proceeded to smash 3 sixes & 4 fours from just 36 deliveries as he scored a belligerent 41* runs not out. Gary added 31 runs for the 7th wicket with Luke Watson (9), 20 runs for the 8th wicket with Jack Pearson (6) & 21 runs for the 9th wicket with Callum Lowe (12). Unfortunately Gary ran out off partners and was left high and dry as Steeton were dismissed for a below-par 188 runs all out in 42.4 overs. 3 batting points for Steeton, but 5 bowling points for Adel.

In reply Steeton’s opening bowlers bowled well, but without any luck! Adel had reached 62 runs in the 19th over before losing their 1st wicket to 3rd change bowler Luke Watson, courtesy of a smart catch in the slips by skipper Gary Boulton. Luke finished with great figures of 5 overs 3 maidens 1 wicket for 6 runs. In the next over leg-spinner Andrew Luxton (1-51) removed the other opener courtesy of a smart stumping by youngster Harris Rowlett. In their 25th over with the score on 82 runs Adel lost their 3rd wicket to a sharp pick-up and throw by Chris Luxton, which helped keeper Harris to a run out. Pick of the bowlers was certainly skipper Gary Boulton, who took 3 wickets for just 22 runs from 10 overs, with catches safely pouched by Luke Watson & Andrew Luxton. The only other wicket that Steeton took fell to Callum Lowe (1-23). Luke Watson & Chris Luxton were awarded fielding points. Steeton did not score enough runs, but when Adel were teetering at 115 runs with 5 wickets down, Steeton had certainly given themselves a chance. In the end Adel proved too strong and they finished with 189 runs with 7 wickets down in 49.1 overs. Steeton (6 points) lost to Adel (20 points) by 3 wickets.

My Man-of-the-Match for Steeton was Gary Boulton

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29 April 2017 - 2nd XI v Otley (A) - Lost by 71 runs (5-20)

Otley 234-7 in 50 overs

Steeton 163 o/a in 43.1 overs

Otley won the toss and chose to bat first. Otley built their innings around experienced opener Wolfenden (115) & registered a excellent total of 234 runs for 7 wickets in their 50 overs. Two of the Steeton bowlers finished with 3 wickets: Callum Lowe took 3 wickets for 72 runs from 11 overs; and Luke Watson took 3 wickets for 65 runs from 15 overs, with catches taken by keeper Oliver Gledhill along with a return catch from his own bowling. Joe Stead (1-47) claimed the other wicket to fall. 3 bowling points for Steeton, but 5 batting points for Otley.

In reply all of Steeton’s top 5 batsmen registered double figure, but none were able to anchor the innings in the same way as Wolfenden had done for Otley. Steeton’s opening partnership was 41 runs between Chris Luxton (27: 37b 4f) & Aatif Modak (26 : 37b 4f). Chris wen on to share a 2nd wicket stand of 35 runs with Bradley Akrigg, who contributed 21 runs (41b 4f). Top scorer was Andrew Luxton, who scored 49 runs from 72 deliveries with 1 six & 8 fours. After Oliver Gledhill’s 11 runs only Callum Lowe from the bottom 6 batsmen managed double figures. With 4 wickets down Steeton had been 122 runs, but Otley bowled Steeton all out for 163 runs in 43.1 overs. Steeton (5 points) lost to Otley (20 points) by 71 runs.

Andrew Luxton is my Man-of-the-Match for Steeton.

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6 May 2017 - 2nd XI v North Leeds (H) - Won by 65 runs (20-8)

Steeton 366-6 in 50 overs

North Leeds 301 a/o in 48.4 overs

North Leeds won the toss and rather surprisingly elected to give Steeton first use of a good Summerhill Lane track. Steeton’s opening batsmen made excellent use of the good track batting steadily to the 20th over with 58 runs on the board before losing their first wickets: Chris Luxton out lbw for 25 runs. The departure of Chris Luxton brought in the explosive talent of James Freebury, who proceeded to smash a fantastic century from only 50 deliveries. James finished with a fantastic 120 runs scored from 57 deliveries with 7 sixes & 13 fours. James shared an excellent 151-run 2nd wicket partnership with opener Bradley Akrigg (63), completed a mature half-century…as did Andrew Luxton (59) and skipper Gary Boulton (57), who showered sixes galore! Bradley’s 63 runs came from 103 deliveries with 2 sixes & 6 fours: Andrew Luxton scored his 59 runs from just 38 deliveries with 2 sixes & 8 fours: and Gary Boulton smashed 6 sixes & 3 fours as he needed only 36 balls for his 57 runs. Steeton had scored a huge 366 runs for the loss of 6 wickets in their 50 overs…11 runs shy of a new Club record highest score (377-4 set at Burley-in-Wharfedale in 1989). Steeton collect 5 batting points and North Leeds have 2 bowling points.

North Leeds were totally unfazed by chasing such a gigantic target and set about trying to achieve an unexpected victory. However Steeton kept chipping away at the wickets and after a hard fought match North Leeds also clocked-up over 300 runs. It was a difficult day for bowlers, but the pick of the bowlers was opener Joe Stead, who took 4 wickets for 62 runs from his 11 overs, with well-judged boundary catches taken by Bradley Akrigg & James Freebury. Skipper Gary Boulton collected 3 wickets for 49 runs from his 9.4 overs, with a low catch in the covers by Chris Luxton & a stumping by keeper Oliver Gledhill. James Freebury bowled a crucial 10-over spell and was rewarded with 2 wickets for 65 runs, with another well-judged boundary catch by Luke Watson. David Wynn (1-72) removed North Leeds’ top-scorer Lak (72) with a catch safely collected by keeper Oliver Gledhill. North Leeds finished with 301 runs all out from 48.4 overs. The aggregate total of 667 runs is now a new Club & League record…smashing the Club’s previous best of 638 runs scored in the home league fixture against Kirkstall Educational in 2006 & the League’s previous best of 653 between Kirkstall Educational and North Leeds in 2009. Steeton collect the maximum 20 points, while North Leeds have to settle for 8 points. Steeton beat North Leeds by 65 runs.

My Man-of-the-Match was James Freebury

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13 May 2017 - 2nd XI v Collingham & Linton (A) - Lost by 90 runs (5-20)

Collingham 263-6 in 50 overs

Steeton 173 a/o in 50 overs

Steeton travelled to Collingham with a makeshift team, but frantic late phone calls meant that we arrived with 11 players. This season Collingham had been struggling to put a score together, so when Steeton won the toss they asked them to bat first. Steeton’s bowlers did not have the best of luck, but Collingham compiled a rapid 106 runs before the opening partnership was finally broken by Mikey Hofman-Tennant (1-20). Wickets were hard to come by, but skipper Gary Boulton took 2 in his final over to finish with 3 wickets for 74 runs from his 15 overs, aided by a stumping (or was it a run out!) by keeper Chris Luxton. James Yeadon (1-64) chipped in with a single wicket and Joe Stead’s efforts were finally rewarded with the wicket of Collingham centurian Weerasinghe (113) with an excellent catch on the boundary by Callum Lowe. Luke Watson & Jack Pearson were awarded fielding points, as Collingham finished with a formidable 263-6 in their 50 overs. 3 bowling points for Steeton, but 5 batting points for Collingham.

Steeton’s reply was a distaster! Four of the top five batsmen had ducks…2 were golden ducks. Steeton were 4 wickets down and just 2 runs on the board. Embarrassment was avoided when skipper Gary Boulton came in to join Jack Pearson, and together they added 57 runs for the 5th wicket partnership, and began digging Steeton out of a deep hole! Jack departed for 33 well earned runs from 52 deliveries with 1 six & 5 fours. Gary was joined by the experienced Phil Barrett and together they added another 31 runs before Gary had to retire with bad cramp. A cameo innings from Callum Lowe (13) was followed by a dubious dismissal of Phil Barrett for 22 runs from 55 deliveries with 3 boundaries. Steeton were 118 runs for the loss of 8 wickets when Gary hobbled back to the crease to continue his innings. Gary added 32 runs for the 9th wicket with Mikey Hofman-Tennant, who contributed a very mature 13 runs, followed by a further 23 runs with 11th man James Yeadon. James contributed a Steeton 2ndXI career best 16 runs and was only out off the very last ball of the innings as he tried to score the 2 runs that would have earned Steeton a 3rd batting point. Gary’s excellent season continued with a stand-out unbeaten 65* runs scored from 100 deliveries with 2 sixes & 7 fours. After the start to the innings it was gratifying that managed to get to 2 batting points. Steeton were all out for 173 runs off the last ball of their 50 overs. Steeton (5 Points) were soundly beaten by Collingham & Linton (20 points) by 90 runs.

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

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14 May 2017 - 2nd XI v Horsforth (H) in Birtwhistle Cup - Won by 2 runs

Steeton 161 a/o in 37.1 overs

Horsforth 159 a/o in 32.1 overs

Skipper Gary Boulton had little doubt in batting first when he won the toss on a sunny day at Summerhill Lane. Steeton were 34 runs with 3 wickets down and only Mick Wilson (14) & Jack Pearson (11) managing double figures. This brought together James Freebury with Julian Higginson and together they added 56 runs for the 4th wicket. Both departed with 29 runs to their respective names: James scoring his 29 runs from just 19 deliveries with 6 boundaries, while Julian scored his 29 runs from 39 deliveries with 1 six & 4 fours. Knowing they had a long ‘tail’ Steeton were teetering at 102 runs with 7 wickets lost. The experienced Phil Barrett was still in to chaperone the juniors and one decidedly senior! Making his 2nd XI debut youngster Ewan Johnston played a fantastically mature innings of 18 runs from 30 deliveries with 3 boundaries and added 30 runs for the 8th wicket partnership with Phil Barrett. With Steeton 132 runs for the loss of 9 wickets the sprightly 70-year-old legend that is Phil Akrigg strode to the crease to join Phil Barrett. Together the 2 Phils have 124 years of experience! They have batted together in the 1st XI and 2nd XI on numerous occasions, and this innate understanding & trust meant they were able to put on 29 runs for Steeton’s final wicket. Phil Akrigg had contributed 9 runs and Phil Barrett closed on an unbeaten 32* runs from 27 deliveries with 3 boundaries. Steeton’s total was still a very below-par 161 runs all out in 37.1 overs…but their tail-enders had given Steeton a sporting chance!

Steeton opening fast bowler was Joe Stead, who terrorised the Horsforth top-order and his great figures of 4 wickets for 37 runs from 8 overs had contributed to Horsforth being reduced to 42 runs with 6 wickets down. Joe had 3 edges safely taken by keeper Julian Higginson and a sharp chance well caught in the covers by Aatif Modak. Horsforth’s later order showed great determination, but Steeton kept chipping away at the wickets. With two even sides, the fortunes of this match were balancing on a knife-edge. Skipper Gary Boulton claimed his obligatory 3 wickets with a low slip catch by Phil Barrett and a stumping by Julian Higginson. There were single wickets for James Freebury (1-14) & youngster Harry Richardson (1-13) with a well-judged catch taken at long off by James Freebury. A couple of difficult chances were spilled and Horsforth’s last pair looked to be guiding them to victory, but Steeton only needed to take 1 more wicket. Never disregard the ‘Legend’ – Phil Akrigg (1-26) came back on to bowl for his 2nd spell and with 2 runs required a lightning stumping by Julian Higginson gave Steeton an unlikely victory. Horsforth had been bowled all out for 159 runs in 32.1 overs, giving Steeton a narrow 2-run victory. Dragged out of semi-retirement keeper Julian Higginson had finished with 5 victims – 3 caught & 2 stumpings. Steeton progress to the 2nd round of the Birtwhistle cup where they will meet Otley away on 4th June.

Phil Akrigg is my Man-of-the-Match

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20 May 2017 - 2nd XI v Pool (H) - Abandoned (3-3)

Steeton 3pt

Pool 3pt

Steeton and Pool players watched hopefully until 4 pm for a break in the persistent light rain. Matches have to begin before 4 pm…so this fixture was cancelled without a ball being bowled. Typically ½ hour later it did stop and a shortened match would have been possible. No play was possible, so both sides collect 3 points.


27 May 2017 - 2nd XI v Tong Park Esholt (A) - Lost by 34 runs (4-18)

Tong Park 182-6 in 36 overs

Steeton 148 a/o in 33.3 overs

With a team featuring four Luxtons & two Modaks, Steeton lost the toss and were asked to field first at Low Springs…had we won the toss we would have batted first as it was felt that the track last year had deteriorated in the 2nd innings. The skies were clear and sunny and it was extremely hot. With the score on 10 runs skipper Gary Boulton made the early breakthrough courtesy of a fine catch by debutant Jack Luxton. With the score on 31 runs with 1 wicket down after 13.5 overs the clear skies turned to a dark maelstrom of thunder, hailstones and rain like stair-rods. Not quite ‘fire & brimstone’ with ‘cats & dogs’, but it certainly sounded like it as we waited in the changing room with a cacophony coming from its tin roof, whilst watch the puddles build up on the square. What conversation was possible in the noise, centred around how we were going to get back up the track from the ground after it was inevitably called off. However after an early tea break the rain relented and remarkably by 3:30pm it was possible to resume this fixture. 28 overs had been lost…so to make the overs even Tong Park would have to declare with 14 overs of their innings left meaning they had 22.1 overs to bat. Steeton had a soggy ball to bowl with and Tong Park slipped into T20 mode! Skipper Gary Boulton picked up his obligatory 3 wickets per match…3 wickets for 60 runs from 13 overs. Unable to get a proper grip on the wet ball, leg spinner Andrew Luxton (1-46) resorted to bowling medium pace darts, and his single wicket was well caught again by his nephew Jack Luxton. With 2 catches on debut Jack was rightly awarded a fielding point. Joe Stead was the only other bowler used, and he finished with 2 wickets for 65 runs from 14 overs, with a caught and bowled giving Joe his 1st ever catch for Steeton! His other wicket was a well-judged catch by Luke Watson, who was awarded a fielding point. In the final 22 overs of their innings Tong Park had scored at almost 7 runs per over and added a further 151 runs. Tong Park duly declared have scored 182 runs for the loss of 6 wickets in 36 overs.

In reply Steeton needed to score at slightly over 5 runs per over. Opener Chris Luxton (22) was Steeton’s 2nd man out, and the score was on 35 runs in the 14th over. Chris had scored his 22 runs from 36 deliveries with 1 six & 3 fours. Will Luxton (40) went on to share a 48-run 3rd wicket partnership with his uncle Andrew Luxton (26). Andrew scored his 26 runs from 33 deliveries with 2 sixes & 1 four; and Will top-scored with 40 runs from 67 deliveries with 1 six & 4 fours. When Will departed the score was 104 runs with 5 wickets down in the 27th over. The required run rate for the incoming batsmen was now into double figures. With all the Tong Park fielders patrolling the boundary, Steeton lost wickets trying to score quick runs. Skipper Gary Boulton (17) & Luke Watson (19) being the most successful, but when Luke was well caught on the boundary the Steeton innings was over. Steeton had scored 148 runs all out in 33.3 overs. Steeton (4 points) lost to Tong Park Esholt (18 points) by 34 runs.

Joe Stead is my Man-of-the-Match for Steeton

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3 June 2017 - 2nd XI v Ilkley (H) - Lost by 191 runs (1-20)

Ilkley 335-1 in 50 overs

Steeton 144 a/o in 26.3 overs

On a bright sunny day at Summerhill Lane the toss was important to win in order to bat first on a great track. Unfortunately Ilkley won the toss and unsurprisingly chose to bat first. Steeton toiled in the sun as the Ilkley openers racked up 100 runs followed by 200 runs…and it was only as the opening partnership had reached 250 runs that Alex Bell was out with 160 runs to his name. His opening partner Rory Kroon (119*) carried his bat through the innings. The only successful Steeton bowler was the youngest player on the field – 12-year-old Jack Luxton (1-31) with a catch taken running in from the mid-wicket boundary by the oldest player on the field – Phil Barrett. The difference in ages of the bowler and the catcher is 42 years! Phil was awarded a fielding point. Ilkley closed on a mammoth 335 runs for the loss of just 1 wicket in their 50 overs.

In reply Steeton had reached 22 runs when Steeton lost their 1st wicket: Chris Luxton (13). Light rain had begun to fall, which slowed the outfield and made the pitch slightly more responsive for the bowlers. The opening partner of Chris was Aatif Modak, who top-scored with 34 runs scored from 47 deliveries with 5 boundaries. Aatif shared an excellent 54-run 2nd wicket partnership with youngster Will Luxton, who contributed a fine 33 runs from 38 deliveries with 6 boundaries. Andrew Luxton (10) & Oliver Gledhill (12) managed double figures, but Steeton had slumped to from 76-2 to 117 runs with 7 wickets down. Phil Barrett (23) combined with Jack Luxton (5) for a 23-run 8th wicket stand, which included a short rain break, but secured Steeton their only point of the match. Phil scored his 23 runs from 15 deliveries with 5 boundaries, but when he was out the end came swiftly. Steeton had scored 144 runs all out in 26.3 overs. Steeton (1 point) were soundly beaten by Ilkley (20 points) by 191 runs.

My joint Men-of-the-Match for Steeton are Phil Barrett, Will Luxton & Aatif Modak

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4 June 2017 - 2nd XI v Otley (A) in Birtwhistle Cup - Lost by 4 wickets

Steeton 169 a/o in 42.4 overs

Otley 170-6 in 41.4 overs

Steeton (169 a/o in 42.4 overs) did not score enough runs and so lost at Cross Green to Otley (170-6 in 41.4 overs) by 4 wickets. Steeton had 4 batsmen reach the twenties, but none were able to convert good starts into sizeable contributions: Chris Luxton (24 – 21b 4f), Luke Watson (23 – 43b 1f), Gary Boulton (21 – 29b 1f 1s) & Julian Higginson (21 – 28b 3f). Aatif Modak (11) & Phil Barrett (10) were the other batters who made double figures. At least 30 runs short of a reasonable total.

Gary Boulton (2-34) bowled well as did Luke Watson (1-18), who bowled 9 tight overs including 4 maidens. But the pick of the bowlers was definitely young Jack Luxton, who took 3 wickets for 13 runs from 6 overs, with a catch by Luke Watson. Luke had a good all-round performance with 21 runs, 1 wicket, 1 catch and 1 fielding point. Will Luxton was awarded the other fielding point.

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

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10 June 2017 - 2nd XI v Rawdon (A) - Drawn (5-6)

Steeton 153-7 in 45 overs

Rawdon 71-1 in 13 overs

Heavy rain in the morning meant there was a big question mark whether our 2nd XI should make the journey to Rawdon. Under overcast clouds the game did commence half-an-hour late with the match reduced to 45 overs per side. Steeton had lost the toss and been asked to bat first. Steeton’s openers batted well and carefully accrued 65 runs before losing their first wicket – Aatif Modak skying a catch back to the bowler for 24 runs scored from 51 deliveries with 4 boundaries. His opening partner was Chris Luxton, who top-scored with 45 runs scored from 79 deliveries with 4 boundaries. Constant light drizzle was beginning to make the wicket more difficult, and Steeton were 73 runs with 3 wickets down in the 27th over. Skipper Gary Boulton (19) joined Andrew Luxton (25) and together they added 42 runs for the 3rd wicket partnership as the batting conditions worsened. Andrew scored his 25 runs from 41 deliveries with 5 fours, but Steeton were 125 runs with 6 wickets down in the 41st over. Aggressive late hitting by Zaggy Pearson (23) saw Steeton to a reasonably good total. Zaggy’s 23 runs came from 17 deliveries, which included 1 six & 2 fours as he added 28 runs for the 7th wicket with Jack Luxton (5*). Steeton finished their 45 overs with 153 runs for the loss of 7 wickets. 2 batting points for Steeton & 3 bowling points for Rawdon.

Further rain was falling and the wicket was now wet, which changed its character once again. The wet ball skidded through and batting became more manageable. Rawdon were batting aggressively to try to get a result before the pitch became unplayable. They had reached 66 runs in the 11th over before they lost their only wicket, to happy medium pacer James Yeadon, courtesy of a a fantastic diving catch by Gary Boulton. Yes, you read it right! Gary dived forward and took an excellent low catch which quite rightly earned him the fielding points. As the batter trudged off the covers came on and 6 further overs were lost from the Rawdon innings. Persistent light drizzle became lighter, and the Rawdon players threw a ball around to convince the umpires that it was once again fit. Steeton were a little surprised when they umpires decided that play was possible, but were even more surprised when in similar conditions 2 overs later they abruptly abandoned the match…declaring the playing area to be no longer safe. In a surreal ending to this contest Rawdon had scored 71 runs for the loss of 1 wicket in 13 overs. A bizarre draw! Steeton (5 points) drew with Rawdon (6 points)

Chris Luxton is my Man-of-the-Match for Steeton.

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17 June 2017 - 2nd XI v Beckwithshaw (H) - Won by 88 runs (20-5)

Steeton 257-6 in 50 overs

Beckwithshaw 169 a/o in 39.1 overs

Top of the league Beckwithshaw visited bottom of the league Steeton, firmly expecting to have the best of the encounter. As the day warmed into a hot sunny afternoon, Steeton won an important toss and had no hesitation in batting first…condemning Beckwithshaw to toil in the field through the hottest part of the day. Opener Chris Luxton (55) was in fine form as he shared a good opening partnership of 61 runs with Aatif Modak, who contributed 28 runs from 47 deliveries with 5 boundaries. When Aatif fell to a sharp caught & bowled, he was replaced by his brother Adil Modak. Chris & Adil added 34 runs for the 2nd wicket, with Adil contributing 17 runs from 25 deliveries with 4 boundaries. With the Steeton score on ‘Nelson’ (i.e. 111) Chris was unluckily run out due to a misunderstanding with his brother Andrew Luxton. Chris had scored 55 runs from 82 deliveries with 9 boundaries. Steeton’s excellent scoring continued when Luke Watson came in to join Andrew Luxton, and together they amassed a great 109 runs for the 4th wicket partnership. Luke Watson was finally bowled having just completed a fine 50 runs from just 53 deliveries with 1 six & 6 fours. Andrew Luxton top-scored with a fabulous 76 runs from just 76 deliveries with 3 sixes & 7 fours. Andrew also shared a quick-fire 6th wicket partnership of 23 runs with Phil Barrett, whose cameo innings of 14* runs not out came from just 7 balls faced. Steeton closed their innings having scored an impressive 257 runs for the loss of 6 wickets in their 50 overs. 5 batting points for Steeton and 3 bowling points for Beckwithshaw.

In reply Beckwithshaw’s batting looked to have suffered as they ‘chased leather’ through the heat of the afternoon. Although James Yeadon (1-30) made the initial breakthrough with a high catch safely taken by Luke Watson, it was Steeton’s spinners who were to turn the match in Steeton’s favour. Off spinner Zaggy Pearson bowled 15 tight overs that only conceded 32 runs as he collected 3 wickets, including a fine catch by Nick Brown, which earned Nick a fielding point. Although he was more expensive, leg-spinner Andrew Luxton finished with a great 5-wicket haul. Andrew took 5 wickets for 55 runs from his 15 overs with a stumping and a catch by keeper Phil Barrett as well as 2 further high catches safely taken by Luke Watson, which earned Luke a fielding point. Aatif Modak was also awarded a fielding point. The coup-de-grâce was delivered by Callum Lowe (1-4) as league leaders Beckwithshaw were humbled. Beckwithshaw were all out for 169 runs in 39.1 overs. Steeton (20 points) beat Beckwithshaw (5 points) by 88 runs, which lifts Steeton off the bottom of the table.

With 76 runs and 5 wickets Andrew Luxton is my Man-of-the-Match

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24 June 2017 - 2nd XI v Guiseley (A) - Lost by 77 runs (6-20)

Guiseley 242-8 in 50 overs

Steeton 165 a/o in 40.2 overs

Guiseley are at the top of the league…helped there because last week Steeton had knocked Beckwithshaw off the top spot. Guiseley won the toss and chose to bat first at Nethermoor Park. Back from injury, Josh Gill (2-55) bowled 11 overs with good pace and broke the opening partnership with an edge taken by keeper Phil Barrett, and then in a 2nd spell had a steepling catch well taken by Andrew Luxton running in from long off. Callum Lowe (2-37) also bowled 11 overs in 2 spells and was rewarded with 2 wickets – both LBWs. Leg spinner Andrew Luxton (1-51) could have finished with more wickets, but did removed Guiseley’s top scorer, Davey (69) with another steepling catch and a great catch taken by Mark Chapman on the long leg boundary. Pick of the bowlers was Zaggy Pearson, who ripped through the middle order, and finished with 3 wickets for 59 runs from 14 overs, with a good catch taken by debutant Harry Rowe and a stumping by Phil Barrett. Steeton had collected wickets regularly, but had been unable to stem the steady flow of runs. Aatif Modak was awarded a fielding point. Guiseley closed on 242 runs for the loss of 8 wickets in their 50 overs. 4 bowling points for Steeton, but 5 batting points for Guiseley.

In reply Steeton’s opener Aatif Modak scored 20 runs from 54 deliveries with 3 boundaries, and shared a 23-run 2nd wicket partnership with James Yeadon, who contributed 12 runs; followed by a 22-run 3rd wicket stand with Andrew Luxton, who went on to top-score for Steeton with 30 runs scored from 36 deliveries with 7 boundaries. Andrew also added 33 runs for the 4th wicket with skipper Gary Boulton (13). Steeton had crumbled to 84 runs with 5 wickets down in the 22nd over, and looked like any batting points would be beyond them. However this had brought together the experienced pairing of Phil Barrett (27) & Mark Chapman (29) and together they added an excellent 51 runs for the 6th wicket in 11 overs. Phil departed for 27 runs scored from 29 deliveries with 5 boundaries, and Mark was adjudged LBW for 29 runs scored from 52 deliveries with 4 boundaries. A cameo innings from Zaggy Pearson (14) was ended by an excellent catch, which brought an end to Steeton’s reply. Steeton had scored 165 runs all out from 40.2 overs. Steeton (6 points) lost to Guiseley (20 points) by 77 runs.

My Man-of-the-Match for Steeton was Zaggy Pearson.

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1 July 2017 - 2nd XI v Burley-in-Wharfedale (H) - Won by 5 wickets (18-2)

Burley-in-Wharfedale 74 a/o in 24.2 overs

Steeton 77-5 in 21.2 overs

Steeton won the toss and asked Burley-in-Wharfedale to bat first on a slightly damp, but drying, track at Summerhill Lane. The top order was blown away by a great spell of bowling by opening bowler Callum Lowe, who finished with 4 wickets for 46 runs from 12 overs, with a lofted catch taken at point by Chris Luxton and the other 3 clean bowled. Chris Luxton was awarded a fielding point. With the top order removed the sheer pace of Josh Gill was too hot to handle. Josh devastated the lower order and finished with 6 wickets for 24 runs from 12.2 overs, with a further 5 batsmen clean bowled. A total of 8 Burley batsmen were bowled as they finished with a meagre 74 runs all out in 24.2 overs – which could have been less had their opening batsman Roy-Webb (24*) not carried his bat.

In reply Steeton had 75 overs to score 74 runs…no run-rate pressure then! As is often the case chasing small totals, it was not all ‘plain sailing’ for Steeton. In-form opener Chris Luxton (4) departed first with the score on just 8 runs. 25 runs later his brother Andrew Luxton also departed having smashed 2 sixes & 1 four to score 16 runs from the 18 balls he faced. In the 9th over Steeton were 36 runs with 3 wickets down with Bradley Akrigg (4) being adjudged caught behind. Luke Watson (16) looked in control as he added 20 runs for the 4th wicket before hit a simple catch to mid-off for 16 runs from 16 deliveries with 4 boundaries. Opener Aatif Modak had been batting carefully as he watched wickets tumble at the other end, but with just 10 runs needed for victory he skied a catch and departed for 18 runs scored from 58 deliveries with 4 boundaries. Aatif’s brother Adil Modak (4*) was joined by skipper Gary Boulton, who was a little disgruntled that such a small total was proving so difficult and Steeton were losing valuable batting points. Gary (12*) needed just 8 deliveries to hit the 3 fours that completed the victory. Steeton had scored 77 runs for the loss of 5 wickets in 21.2 overs – this fixture being all ‘done and dusted’ by 4:15pm. Steeton (18 points) beat Burley-in-Wharfedale (2 points) by 5 wickets.

Josh Gill is my Man-of-the-Match

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8 July 2017 - 2nd XI v Adel (A) - Lost by 7 wickets (3-20)

Steeton 157 a/o in 47.4 overs

Adel 159-3 in 36.1 overs

Steeton won the toss and decided to bat first at Adel. Steeton began watchfully with opener Chris Luxton scoring a careful 30 runs from 68 deliveries with 4 boundaries. Bradley Akrigg came with Steeton on 28 runs with 2 wickets down, and he chipped in with 19 run from 36 balls faced and shared a 35-run 3rd wicket partnership with Chris Luxton, followed by a 25-run 4th wicket stand with skipper Gary Boulton. Gary top-scored with a battling unbeaten 41* runs not out scored from 60 deliveries with 1 six & 3 fours, but he watched forlornly as 6 of his team-mates perished at the other end. Steeton had scored 157 runs all out in 47.4 overs – 2 batting points for Steeton, but 5 bowling points for Adel.

Adel were off to a flyer as they had reached 76 runs in 15 overs before losing their 1st wicket. It was only went swing bowler Luke Watson bowled in tandem with spinner Aatif Modak that Steeton began to exercise any sort of control. Pick of the Steeton bowlers was Luke Watson, who had both openers out played on, and finished with 2 wickets for 38 runs from 11 overs. Spinner Aatif Modak also bowled a tight 9 overs which only conceded 26 runs as he was rewarded with 1 wicket off the only poor delivery he bowled, which was top-edged and safely pouched by Andrew Luxton at point. Luke Watson & Adil Modak were awarded the fielding points. Adel had scored 159 runs for the loss of 3 wickets in 36.1 overs. Steeton (3 points) lost to Adel (20 points) by 7 wickets.

Luke Watson & Gary Boulton are my joint Men-of-the-Match for Steeton

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15 July 2017 - 2nd XI v Otley (H) - Lost by 108 runs (4-19)

Otley 224-8 in 50 overs

Steeton 118 a/o in 26.4 overs

Steeton lost the toss and were asked to field first on a drizzly day at Summerhill Lane. Steeton made excellent use of the early difficult conditions. Otley were reduced to 45 runs with 4 wickets down in the 15th over. Otley’s top-order struggling to cope with the pace of opening bowler Josh Gill. Josh was unlucky to only finish with 3 wickets, his 15 overs only conceding 46 runs, with 2 catches taken by keeper Phil Barrett. Youngster Jack Luxton also bowled 2 excellent spells, and claimed 3 wickets for 30 runs from his 10 overs, courtesy of a third catch by keeper Phil Barrett as well as a catch by Josh Gill at fly-slip. Steeton struggled to hold on to a few catches in the damp conditions. Luke Watson was the only other successful bowler with 2 wickets for 58 runs from 13 overs, courtesy of a stumping by Phil Barrett. Adil Modak & Will Luxton were awarded fielding points. Otley finished with 224 runs for the loss of 8 wickets in their 50 overs – 4 bonus points each for Steeton and Otley.

In reply Steeton’s top order collapsed to 29 runs for the loss of 3 wickets in 8th over, but young opener Will Luxton was still there. Will Luxton shared a 23-run 4th wicket partnership with skipper Oliver Gledhill, who contributed 10 runs. In the 18th over with the score on 91 runs for 6 wickets, Will Luxton was eventually caught & bowled having scored an excellent half-century…finishing with 55 runs scored from 61 deliveries with 3 sixes and 6 fours. Steeton’s tail was shepherded by Phil Barrett, who hit 2 sixes and 1 four as he scored 20 runs from 39 balls faced. With only 3 batsmen managing double figures, Steeton were all out for an inadequate 118 runs in 26.4 overs. The only department where Steeton beat Otley was in sixes…with Steeton clubbing 7 sixes compared to Otley’s 1 six! Steeton (4 points) lost to Otley (19 points) by 106 runs.

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

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22 July 2017 - 2nd XI v North Leeds (A) - Tied (10-11)

Steeton 147-8 in 35 overs

North Leeds 147 a/o in 35 overs

So far this season neither Steeton 1st XI or 2nd XI have managed a win away from home. Very heavy morning rain had cast a doubt over whether this fixture would ever get started. There were wet patches on the outfield and water had run under the covers giving wet patches on the wicket itself. Any further rain would have meant a wasted journey. The sun dried most of the wet patches & the umpires deemed it fit to play…starting 1½ hours late at 2:30pm – the fixture reduced to a 35 overs per side match. Steeton lost the toss and were asked to bat first on what would understandably be a difficult track at the Homestead. Steeton began with a 25-run opening partnership before Chris Luxton (15) became the first man out. His opening partner was Aatif Modak (47), who went on to share a 23-run 2nd wicket partnership with his brother Adil Modak (11); a 25-run 4th wicket partnership with Harris Rowlett (13) and finally a 36-run 5th wicket partnership with skipper Gary Boulton (19). On a track with more even bounce Aatif would have scored many more runs, and he certainly deserved at least a half-century, but had to depart for 47 runs scored from 84 deliveries with 8 boundaries. At Aatif’s dismissal Steeton were 109 runs with 5 wickets down in the 29th over, but they then lost a further 3 wicket in the next 2 overs adding a further 7 runs. This brought together Josh Gill (21*) with Callum Lowe (8*), and together they not only survived the final 4 overs, but smashed an incredible 31 runs for the unbroken 9th wicket stand. Josh Gill smashed 1 enormous straight six & 2 fours as he faced just 18 balls for his unbeaten 21* runs not out. Steeton had closed on 147 runs for the loss of 8 wickets in their 35 overs. Whether this would be enough was yet to be decided as the day had brighten up into a warm sunny day – the dry outfield would be faster, but how would the dry wicket behave for the North Leeds innings?

After losing one of their opening batsmen early the North Leeds reply started rapidly as they had reached 67 runs for the loss of 1 wicket in just 10 overs. The wicket taken was a caught and bowled by pace-man Josh Gill, who finished with 2 wickets for 41 runs form 9 overs. The introduction of Luke Watson swung the match back in the favour of Steeton…his first over went for 9 runs, but his next 3 overs were all ‘wicket maidens’. Luke finished with an excellent 5-wicket haul, as his 5 wickets cost just 25 runs from his 10 overs, with 3 batsmen caught and bowled and a catch fumbled but eventually grasped by Callum Lowe at mid-off. Having finished his allotted 10 overs, Luke was replaced by off-spinner Zaggy Pearson (1-13) to bowl the last 3 overs from the road end. Zaggy had a catch taken by a diving Harris Rowlett at backward square-leg, which earned Harris a fielding point. Jack Luxton was also awarded a fielding point. After his 5 wickets Luke was not finished and ran out one of the batsmen, meaning North Leeds went into the final over with 9 wickets down for 146 runs. Zaggy Pearson to bowl to the final over and the field in close trying to stop any singles. An excellent 5 deliveries conceded just 1 run – scores level one ball to go last pair at the crease, the batsmen were going to run regardless. The last delivery was hit gently straight at Luke Watson, who underarmed a throw to keeper Phil Barrett, who removed the bails to complete the run out. An exciting match, which neither side deserved to lose, ended fittingly as tie. Close, but still no away win for either of our Saturday teams. North Leeds were all out for 147 runs in 35 overs. Steeton (11 points) tied with North Leeds (10 points).

Luke Watson is my Man-of-the-Match

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29 July 2017 - 2nd XI v Collingham & Linton (H) - Won by 3 wickets (19-8)

Collingham & Linton 296-8 in 50 overs

Steeton 297-7 in 49.1 overs

Steeton won a remarkable match at Summerhill Lane. To put this game into context…Collingham are bottom of the league & Steeton 4th off the bottom. Collingham had previously only won one match this season…their home fixture against Steeton! So when Collingham won the toss and chose to bat first on an excellent Summerhill Lane track, Steeton were hopeful of ‘knocking them over’ cheaply. This did not prove to be the case as Collingham’s openers amassed an excellent 131-run opening partnership. The opening partnership was broken by 12-year-old Jack Luxton, who went on to collect 3 wickets for 59 runs from his 10 overs, including a high catch safely pouched by his uncle Andrew Luxton. The other opener was removed by Bradley Akrigg, who finished with 2 wickets for 46 runs from 7 overs, with a nice catch taken at square-leg by Harris Rowlett. Skipper Gary Boulton had bowled 10 overs for 35 runs…good figures that were were rapidly spoilt as he was clubbed for 3 sixes in a row! Unable to find a willing replacement, Gary continued and was rewarded with 3 wickets in his final over! Gary’s figures finished at 3 wickets for 69 runs from 14 overs, with a high catch comfortably collected by Bradley Akrigg. Bradley was awarded a fielding point. Steeton’s overall fielding was lacklustre and their catching was poor, allowing Collingham to belie their lowly league position and score an immense 296 runs for the loss of 8 wickets in their 50 overs.

Steeton’s reply began steadily and after 20 overs we were 67 runs with 3 wickets down: Chris Luxton (12), Adil Modak (17) & Andrew Luxton (24) being the men out. Andrew being unluckily caught behind down the leg side having scored his 24 runs from 28 deliveries with 5 boundaries. Bradley Akrigg (46) & Luke Watson (73) forged a great 75-run 4th wicket partnership in the next 13 overs, which started to swing the game back in favour of Steeton. Bradley scored his 46 runs from 51 deliveries with 1 six & 5 fours; while Luke top-scored with his excellent 73 runs coming from 67 deliveries with 3 sixes & 9 fours. However with 15 overs to play Steeton were 147 runs with 4 wickets down…and at that point the required run rate had reached  an unlikely 10 runs per over. Luke Watson went on to share a 61-run 5th wicket partnership with skipper Gary Boulton, who contributed 33 runs from 35 deliveries with 3 boundaries. Gary then added a further 59 runs for the 6th wicket with Zaggy Pearson, who gave the innings a sudden impetus as he smashed 4 sixes & 2 fours as he needed just 27 balls to score a quick-fire 43 runs. Gary departed in the 48th over with the score on 264 runs and Steeton needing a further 32 runs from 17 deliveries…youngster Harris Rowlett came in to join veteran Phil Barrett. Harris proceeded to smash a fantastic match-winning 26 runs from just 9 balls faced with 2 sixes & 2 fours. Harris shared an unbroken 33-run 8th wicket partnership from just 12 deliveries with Phil Barrett (8*) and smashed the first delivery of the 50th over to the boundary to win this exciting match for Steeton. Steeton scored 297 runs for the loss of 7 wickets in 49.1 overs. Steeton (19 points) beat Collingham & Linton (8 points) by 3 wickets.

Luke Watson is my Man-of-the-Match

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P.S. Having pored through the statistics I can now declare this to be the 2nd biggest successful run chase for the 2nd XI in the club’s history. We have chased down scores over 200 on 35 occasions, the first time ever being at Horsforth in 1965 when exactly 200 was surpassed to win by 6 wickets. Then in 1991 227 runs v Burley became the new record until 1996 when this became 240 runs also against Burley. The first successful chase of 250 runs was at Kirkstall in 2007 winning by 3 wickets – 250 runs has now been successfully chased down on 7 occasions. In 2011 at Beckwithshaw a target of 258 was beaten by 4 wickets, but this was bettered in 2013 when Otley’s 287 runs were overtaken on the last ball of the innings. The current record was set at home on 21st June 2014 when Guiseley’s 298-5 was overtaken with 5 balls & 7 wickets to spare. This result slots in a very close second!


5 August 2017 - 2nd XI v Pool (A) - Lost by 7 wickets (5-18)

Steeton 201-6 in 50 overs

Pool 205-3 in 46 overs

Steeton won the toss at Pool and chose to bat first. A solid opening partnership was cut short when Chris Luxton (13) was caught out with the score on 29 runs in the 11th over. His opening partner was Adil Modak, who went on to score an excellent half-century…his 58 runs coming from 104 balls faced with 8 boundaries. Adil shared a fine 78-run 2nd wicket partnership with Freddie Pearson, who contributed 45 runs from 65 deliveries with 5 boundaries. Bradley Akrigg was clapped for getting a fifty, but the scorebox was actually showing an incorrect score…Bradley was bowled out having actually scored only 45 runs from 49 deliveries with 2 sixes & 5 fours. When Bradley was batting Pool were convinced that they had him stumped out, but the square-leg umpire was equally convinced that the ball had reached the keeper slowly enough for Bradley to scamper back into his crease. This caused an unsavoury exchange, with the Pool keeper (Cameron Duncan) openly accusing the square-leg umpire of being a ‘cheat’ on 3 occasions! Just not cricket, but hopefully he has been reported to the league. With Steeton trying to maximise their total there were cameo knocks by Luke Watson; 12 runs from 10 deliveries with 2 sixes and skipper Gary Boulton; 15* runs not out from 16 deliveries with 1 six. Steeton closed on 201 runs for the loss of 6 wickets from their 50 overs.

Despite some unplayable deliveries, Steeton were unable to make any great inroads into the Pool batting. Pick of the bowlers was off-spinner Zaggy Pearson, who collected 2 wickets for 24 runs from 7 overs, including a stumping by Phil Barrett. The only other successful bowler was skipper Gary Boulton, who bowled 11 miserly overs which only conceded 29 runs as he was rewarded with a single wicket. An unbroken 110-run 4th wicket partnership saw Pool to a comfortable victory. Pool had scored 205 runs for the loss of 3 wickets in 46 overs. Steeton (5 points) lost to Pool (18 points) by 7 wickets.

Adil Modak is my Man-of-the-Match for Steeton

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12 August 2017 - 2nd XI v Tong Park Esholt (H) - Won by 26 runs (17-6)

Steeton 163 a/o in 44.4 overs

Tong Park 137 a/o in 41.4 overs

Steeton lost the toss and were asked to bat first on a slightly damp & very green track at Summerhill Lane. Hayden Tennant (17) & Adil Modak (18) coped well with the demanding early conditions to put on 28 runs for the opening partnership. But when Adil was out with the score on 39 runs Steeton suffered a shuttering of wickets and in the 16th over they were staring at an ignominious 39 runs with 5 wickets down. Dragged out of retirement due to a dearth of available players was Julian Higginson, who scored a fantastic half-century…his 50 runs coming from 71 deliveries with 7 boundaries. Julian shared an excellent 7th wicket partnership of 60 runs with Zaggy Pearson, who contributed 29 runs scored from 28 deliveries with 6 boundaries. Julian then went on to add 32 runs for the 9th wicket with skipper Callum Lowe, who recorded his best ever league score of 25 runs from 37 deliveries with 1 six & 3 fours. Julian was the last man out having added 14 runs for the final wicket…youngster Jack Luxton (11*) scoring the majority of those runs including a great 6 hit over long off. Thanks largely to Julian’s efforts, Steeton were all out for a below-par 163 runs in 44.4 overs. Tong Park would have 55 overs to score 163 runs at less than 3 runs per over.

In reply Tong Park had steadily reached 37 runs in the 12th over before the introduction of Luke Watson swung the match in favour of Steeton, by taking the first 2 wickets in only his 2nd over with a well-taken catch at mid on by Ewan Johnston, which earned him a fielding point, and a diving catch in the slips by Phil Barrett. Harry Rowe was also awarded a fielding point. Luke then went on to take a fabulous 6 wickets for 43 runs from his 15 overs, with a smart low catch at point by skipper Callum Lowe, a 2nd slip catch by Phil Barrett as well as a catch from his own bowling. Tong Park were reduced to 77 runs with 7 wickets down in the 23rd over. Luke was bowling in tandem with off-spinner Zaggy Pearson, who finished with 3 wickets for 30 runs from 13 overs, with a comfortable catch taken by Jack Luxton at extra cover as well as a further 2 catches by Phil Barrett: 1 in the slips and 1 at silly-mid-on. Relieved of his wicket keeping duties Phil had returned to his preferred fielding position in the slips and taken 4 catches, but in a travesty he was overlooked when the fielding points were being awarded! With Luke Watson bowled out, skipper Callum Lowe (1-12) brought himself back on and it took him just 10 deliveries to clean bowl the final wicket. Tong Park had been skittled all out for 137 runs in 41.4 overs. Steeton (17 points) beat Tong Park Esholt (6 points) by 26 runs.

Julian Higginson & Luke Watson are my joint Men-of-the-Match

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19 August 2017 - 2nd XI v Ilkley (A) - Lost by 6 wickets (2-18)

Steeton 57 a/o in 26 overs

Ilkley 58-4 in 21.1 overs

The Steeton ‘flotilla’ travelled to Ilkley in monsoon rainfall, not really believing that a full match would be possible. Play was able to commence slightly late…making this a 47 overs per side match…a number that soon proved immaterial. This fixture would become almost the complete ‘negative’ of the 1st team’s match. Steeton lost an important toss and were soon 4 wickets down with only 10 runs on the board. Opener Chris Luxton was to top-score with 20 runs and the only other batsman to manage double figures was skipper Gary Boulton (16): they shared a 29-run 5th wicket partnership. Steeton were all out for a measly 57 runs in 26 overs.

In reply Ilkley did not have it all their own way. Opening the bowling off-spinner Zaggy Pearson (1-15) got Steeton off to a great start taking the first wicket lbw with just 7 runs on the board. Young opening bowler Ewan Johnston bowled a tight line with his 6 overs only conceding 6 runs and he was rewarded with a catch taken by keeper Phil Barrett…Ilkley 2 wickets down with just 10 runs scored. Steeton had their 1st point of the day! The next wicket went to Luke Watson (1-16) with an inside edge played onto the wickets. Steeton then missed a couple of difficult chances as Ilkley closed on the undemanding target. Chris Luxton (1-3) bowled just one over and was rewarded with a wicket clean bowled. Steeton had unexpectedly earned a 2nd bowling point, but the small Steeton score was easily overhauled by Ilkley, who scored 58 runs for the loss of 4 wickets in 21.1 overs. James Yeadon was rightly awarded a fielding point. Steeton (2 points) lost to Ilkley (18 points) by 6 wickets.

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


26 August 2017 - 2nd XI v Rawdon (H) - Won by 32 runs (20-9)

Steeton 257-8 in 50 overs

Rawdon 225 a/o in 49.4 overs

When top of the league visit the bottom of the league you can expect only one outcome. Ha…today you’d be wrong! Despite their lowly position in the league table Steeton are having a big influence on the placing at the top of the division. Steeton won the toss and elected to bat first on a hot day on a good Summerhill Lane track. Steeton’s openers notched 63 runs for the opening partnership with Chris Luxton (37) opening with David Greaves (34). Chris scored his 37 runs from 65 deliveries with 7 boundaries, while David scored his 34 runs from 34 deliveries with 1 six & 6 fours. Having just celebrated his 18th birthday Bradley Akrigg continued his festivities with a maiden century. Making the most of excellent conditions Bradley scored a great unbeaten 101* runs from 99 deliveries with 10 fours and a massive six to bring up his century in style. Bradley shared a 73-run 4th wicket partnership with Oliver Gledhill, who contributed a quickfire 42 runs from just 29 balls faced including 4 fours and 3 sixes. Bradley also shared a 43-run 6th wicket partnership with skipper Gary Boulton (17). Steeton closed with 257 runs for the loss of 8 wickets in their 50 overs.

In reply Rawdon’s top order was decimated by the in-swing of Luke Watson, who finished with 4 wickets for 34 runs from 13 overs, with catches taken by Zaggy Pearson, Harry Rowe & David Greaves, and helped reduce Rawdon to 64 runs with 5 wickets down. Youngster Jack Luxton (2-46) collected 2 wickets including the important wicket of Marsden (69), well caught by Luke Watson at long off after being repeatedly dropped. Skipper Gary Boulton (1-26) nipped out a single wicket, but also ran out the opposition’s skipper with a spectacular direct hit. The final 2 wickets fell to youngster Ewan Johnston (2-43) with catches taken by keeper Oliver Gledhill & finally to win the match in the last over at short mid-off by Bradley Akrigg. To finish his memorable day Bradley Akrigg was awarded a fielding point. Rawdon had been bowled all out for 225 runs in 49.4 overs. Steeton (20 points) beat Rawdon (9 points) by 32 runs. Steeton are now 4th from the bottom of the league and 40 points clear of relegation worries.

Bradley Akrigg is my Man-of-the-Match

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2 September 2017 - 2nd XI v Beckwithshaw (A) - Lost by 5 wickets (4-19)

Steeton 170-8 in 50 overs

Beckwithshaw 172-5 in 47.5 overs

Steeton won the toss and chose to bat first at Beckwithshaw. Batting first Steeton compiled a careful 2nd wicket partnership of 65 runs between Chris Luxton (54) & Bradley Akrigg (22). Chris scored his 65 runs from 105 deliveries with 6 boundaries, while Bradley scored hi 22 runs from 64 deliveries with 3 boundaries. Steeton were 66 runs for the loss of 1 wicket at the 25-over drinks break. With an impetus needed to increase the run rate, there was a series of cameo innings in the middle order: Skipper Oliver Gledhill scored 19 runs from 26 balls; Phil Barrett scored 15 runs from 16 balls; Gabe Manthorp scored 29 runs from 32 balls; and Callum Lowe scored 21 runs from 27 balls. There was some confusion as to the Steeton total, which was shown as 171 runs on the scoreboard, but revised down to 170 runs during the tea break, although the Steeton scorebook added up to 180 runs! The umpires decided that Steeton had scored 170 for 8 in their 50 overs.

The Beckwithshaw opening partnership was short-lived as youngster Jack Luxton (1-17) collected a wicket from the 12th delivery of the match with only 1 run on the board, courtesy of an excellent driven catch taken at square-leg by James Yeadon, who was awarded a fielding point. Steeton exercised good control over the middle overs of the match with spinners Phil Akrigg and Zaggy Pearson. The ‘Legend’ Phil Akrigg (1-52) bowled 15 overs and collected his 1,098th Steeton wicket; and off-spinner Zaggy Pearson (1-38) also bowled 15 tight overs and was rewarded with a single wicket from a skied shot caught by keeper Gabe Manthorp. Bradley Akrigg (1-19) took a single wicket and also took a catch to give Callum Lowe (1-36) his wicket. Bradley was awarded a fielding point as was Adil Modak. The Steeton target never really put the batsmen under any run-rate pressure and so Beckwithshaw scored 172 runs for the loss of 5 wickets in 47.5 overs. Steeton (4 points) lost to Beckwithshaw (19 points) by 5 wickets.

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


9 September 2017 - 2nd XI v Guiseley (H) - Cancelled (3-3)

Steeton 3pts

Guiseley 3pts

Steeton watched the rain showers make a soggy track at Steeton even wetter until 3pm when a further heavy downpour set the seal on this fixture. This fixture was cancelled with both sides collecting 3 points. Rain wiping out most of this week’s fixtures mean Steeton are safely 27 points above any relegation worries going into the final match.


16 September 2017 - 2nd XI v Burley-in-Wharfedale (A) - Won by 90 runs (18-3)

Steeton 194-7 in 50 overs

Burley-in-Wharfedale 104 a/o in 39 overs

Steeton lost the toss and were asked to bat first at Hodson Park. Steeton’s innings was based around a great 2nd wicket partnership of 135 runs between Will Luxton (75) & Bradley Akrigg (62) Will scoring his 75 runs from 131 deliveries with 3 sixes & 3 fours, while Bradley scored his 62 runs from 113 deliveries with 2 sixes &  5 fours. Steeton lost wickets trying to score unnecessarily quickly on a damp slow track, however skipper Gary Boulton (20*) added 23 runs for the 6th wicket with Callum Lowe (12), with Gary scoring his unbeaten 20* runs from 20 deliveries with 4 boundaries. Steeton had scored a formidable 194 runs for the loss of 7 wickets in their 50 overs.

In reply Burley lost their first 2 wickets to the excellent bowling of Callum Lowe (2-12) as Burley were reduced to 23 runs for 2 wickets. The next 6 wickets all fell to Akriggs – with the legend that is Phil Akrigg bowling in tandem with his grandson Bradley Akrigg. Phil (2-32) collected a brace of wickets to bring his career tally to 1,100 wickets, but on this occasion he was eclipsed by his grandson Bradley Akrigg, who took 4 wickets for 24 runs from 9 overs. The first 8 wickets were all either clean bowled (6) or L.B.W. (2). With Bradley Akrigg looking to try to add a 5-wicket haul to his 62 runs, the mopping-up off the final 2 wickets was accomplished swiftly by Harry Rowe, who bowled just 1 over which was a double-wicket maiden, courtesy a nice low catch taken at point by Jack Luxton. Finlay Brown & Harry Rowe were awarded the fielding points. Burley-in-Wharfedale were all out for 104 runs in 39 overs. It has taken until the final match for Steeton to register their first away win of the season. Steeton (18 points) beat Burley (3 points) by 90 runs.

Bradley Akrigg is my Man-of the-Match.

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1st XI2nd XI

Third XI 2017

23 April 2017 - 3rd XI v Green Lane (H) - Won by 207 runs (20-4)

Steeton 343- in 40 overs

Green Lane 136 a/o in 35.1 overs

After a disastrous opening Saturday of the 2017 season, it was up to the 3rd XI to restore some club pride. Visitors Green Lane lost the toss and skipper Hayden Tennant had no hesitation in batting first. On a nice sunny day records began to tumble & ‘firsts’ were set. Stephen Pearson was unavailable for 1st XI duty, due to football commitments, so was asked to open the batting with Aatif Modak. At the 20-over drinks interval Steeton had progressed to 133 runs without losing a wicket and a ‘big’ score looked likely. When Steve finally surrendered his wicket he had registered his first century…finishing with 107 runs scored from 80 deliveries with 2 sixes & 16 fours. Steve & Aatif had also set a new Club record 1st wicket partnership of 182 runs. When Aatif was finally caught out he too had recorded his first century and added 120 runs for the 2nd wicket partnership (NOT a Club record!). Aatif finished with an excellent 139 runs scored from 102 deliveries with 3 sixes & 18 fours. Will Luxton continued the excellent scoring as he finished with an unbeaten 73* runs scored from just 47 deliveries with 4 sixes & 4 fours. The only other person who batted was Bradley Akrigg, who faced 13 deliveries for his unbeaten 13* runs with 2 boundaries. Previously Steeton’s highest 3rd XI score had been 301 runs…but that record was smashed today. Steeton closed their innings with 343 runs for the loss of just 2 wickets in their allotted 40 overs. 5 batting points for Steeton & 1 bowling point for Green Lane.

When Green Lane came out to begin their innings they knew that they needed to score consistently at over 8½ runs per over to overtake the mammoth Steeton target. Green Lane’s reply was curtailed at 2 runs with a smart stumping by keeper Phil Barrett from the bowling of Bradley Akrigg. Bradley added to their torment with an excellent catch at leg-slip by Mark Chapman…and with an LBW Bradley finished with 3 wickets for 17 runs from his 6 overs…and Green Lane were 33 runs for 3 wickets. The next wicket fell to leg-spinner Will Luxton (1-27) with a thin edge to keeper Phil Barrett. It was then the turn of Will’s younger brother Jack to get in the action. Making his senior debut Jack Luxton claimed 2 wickets for 19 runs from 8 overs, with his brother Will helping out by taking a catch. Having relinquished his keeping duties, Harris Rowlett (1-12) was brought on to bowl and took a wicket from his very first delivery…comfortably pouched by James Yeadon. A sharp pick up and throw from the covers by Will Luxton was converted into a run out by keeper Phil Barrett, and the Green Lane innings was unravelling fast! The introduction of James Yeadon brought a rapid end to match as he clean bowled the last 2 batsmen and finished with 2 wickets for 6 runs from 3.1 overs. Green Lane’s skipper Ian Roberts was left high and dry with 52* runs. Green Lane were all out for 136 runs in 35.1 overs. Steeton (20 points) beat Green Lane (4 points) by 207 runs.

Many strong candidates for Man-of-the-Match, but I have chosen Aatif Modak

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30 April 2017 - 3rd XI v Menston (A) - Lost by 48 runs (8-20)

Menston 212-8 in 40 overs

Steeton 164 a/o in 35.4 overs

Menston won the toss and decided to bat first at the Fox ground. Bradley Akrigg (1-33) got Steeton off to a great start breaking the opening partnership with just 4 runs on the board. Youngster Jack Luxton (1-8) bowling 5 tight overs and in the process reduced Menston to 43 runs with 2 wickets down. Steeton’s experienced bowlers took a brace of wickets apiece: James Yeadon took 2 wickets for 39 runs from 8 overs, with a catch taken by Jack Luxton; and skipper Hayden Tennant took 2 wickets for 38 runs from 7 overs, with a catch taken by keeper Ryan Birch. There was a single wicket each for leg-spinner Mikey Hofman-Tennant (1-37) and an unusual ‘hit wicket’ dismissal for youngster Harry Richardson (1-14). With a ‘gung ho’ approach to batting Menston reached an excellent 212 runs for the loss of 8 wickets in their 40 overs.

Opening the innings was skipper Hayden Tennant, who scored 19 runs, but when he departed Steeton slumped to 39 runs with 3 wickets lost. At No4 Bradley Akrigg played a fantastic innings of 77 runs scored from 89 deliveries with 1 six & 9 fours. Bradley shared a 4th wicket partnership of 33 runs with Mikey Hofman-Tennant (11) followed by an even better 61-run 5th wicket stand with Ryan Birch, who contributed 29 runs from just 21 deliveries with 2 sixes & 2 fours. When Ryan departed the score was 133-5…but Steeton then lost the last 5 wickets only adding a further 31 runs. Bradley was the last man out and Steeton had scored 164 runs all out in 35.4 overs. Steeton (8 points) lost to Menston (20 points) by 48 runs.

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

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7 May 2017 - 3rd XI v Olicanian (A) - Won by 91 runs (19-6)

Steeton 166 a/o in 34.1 overs

Olicanian 75 a/o in 24.2 overs

Steeton’s opening partnership had reached 36 runs when Bradley Akrigg departed with 10 runs to his name. Bradley’s opening partner was skipper Hayden Tennant, who went on to share a 55-run 2nd wicket partnership with Will Luxton (18), before being adjudged lbw for a fine 58 runs scored from 53 deliveries with 2 sixes & 5 fours. The score at this stage was 109 runs for the loss of 3 wickets…a solid start! Dragged out of retirement Steeton legends Mick Wilson (26)  & Julian Higginson (20) added good runs…but the only other batsman to achieve double figures was Ryan Birch (14). Following such a solid start Steeton fell away to 166 runs all out in 34.1 overs…game on! 4 batting points to Steeton, but 5 bowling points for Olicanian.

In reply Olicanian had a disastrous start – losing their 1st 2 wicket without scoring a single run and then 3 wickets down with just 4 runs scored. Steeton’s supply of young bowlers proved too much for Olicanian, who were bowled all out for 75 runs in 24.2 overs. 14-year-old Ewan Johnston took 4 wickets for 11 runs from 6 overs, courtesy of 2 catches by Mick Wilson, a catch by keeper Ryan Birch along with a return catch from his own bowling. 13-year-old Finlay Brown took 2 wickets for 11 runs on his senior debut, with catches taken by skipper Hayden Tennant along with a further catch by Mick Wilson. There was a single wicket each for Bradley Akrigg (1-16), 14-year-old Will Luxton (1-18), 15-year-old Mikey Hofman-Tennant (1-5) & 16-year-old Harry Richardson (1-14). Veteran Mick Wilson took 4 catches and was awarded a fielding point. The other fielding point going to Ewan Johnston. Steeton (19 points) beat Olicanian (6 points) by 91 runs.

My Man-of-the-Match was Hayden Tennant

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21 May 2017 - 3rd XI v Rawdon (H) in Chappell Cup - Lost by 56 runs

Rawdon 216 a/o in 39.3 overs

Steeton 160 a/o in 33.4 overs

Steeton lost the toss and Rawdon decided they would bat first on a good deck at Summerhill Lane. Unlike yesterday the sun was shining and it was a good day for cricket. Rawdon’s young opener Baxter (105) made excellent use of the placid track as he registered a century and guided Rawdon to an excellent 216 runs all out in 39.3 overs. Pick of the Steeton bowlers was skipper Hayden Tennant who finished with 4 wickets for 28 runs from 7.3 overs, with a nonchalant catch at long on by Harry Richardson & Mark Chapman in ‘cow corner’ taking well-judged catches to bring the innings to a close from consecutive deliveries. Harry Richardson & Mark Chapman were each awarded fielding points. Youngster Finlay Brown (1-36) removed the Rawdon centurian with a nice catch at long off by Mick Wilson. The legendary Phil Akrigg took a further 3 wickets for 32 runs from his 8 overs, courtesy of a great diving catch in the covers by youngster Ewan Johnston and a nice low catch at mid-wicket by Nick Brown. The other 2 wickets fell to James Yeadon (1-42) & Ewan Johnston (1-44). Rawdon’s excellent score meant Steeton would have to score at around 5½ runs per over to progress in the Chappell cup.

Steeton’s reply began disastrously and Steeton were reduced to 25 runs with 4 wickets down, with only skipper Hayden Tennant (12) managing double figures. The fightback began when Ewan Johnston (8) came in to join Phil Barrett and together they added 35 runs for the 4th wicket partnership. Phil then went on to add 16 runs for the 5th wicket with Harry Richardson (10) followed by 24 runs for the 6th wicket with Nick Brown (14). When Phil Barrett was adjudged run out Steeton were 100 runs with 7 wickets down and Phil had scored 31 runs from 52 deliveries with 5 boundaries. As the match looked to be petering out, new life was breathed into the innings by a quite remarkable innings by James Yeadon. Until today James’ best score had been 38 runs scored in 2010. It took James just 34 deliveries to smash 2 sixes & 8 fours and record his first ever senior half-century! James was the last man out with a fantastic 51 runs to his name. Steeton had scored 160 runs all out in 33.4 overs. Steeton lost to Rawdon by 56 runs and will take no further role in this year’s Chappell Cup competition.

For an excellent article from the opposition’s perspective read: Brilliant Baxter Hits Beast Mode – Funny & well worth a read!

James Yeadon is my Man-of-the-Match

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28 May 2017 - 3rd XI v Burley-in-Wharfedale (H) - Lost by 5 wickets (5-17)

Steeton 144-9 in 40 overs

Burley-in-Wharfedale 149-5 in 34.4 overs

After observing a minute’s silence for the 22 victims of the Manchester Bombing, Steeton lost the toss and were asked to bat first on a bright sunny day at Summerhill Lane. Steeton got off to a great start courtesy of the Modak brothers: Aatif scored 27 runs from 48 deliveries with 3 boundaries & his brother Adil scored 32 runs from 43 deliveries with 1 six & 3 fours…and together they added 59 runs for the opening partnership in 14 overs. Mikey Hofman-Tennant chipped in with 12 runs, but when he departed Steeton were 104 runs with 6 wickets down. Mark Chapman top-scored with 39 runs scored from 46 deliveries with 2 sixes & 3 fours…but the Steeton ‘tail’ was exposed. Mark added a solid 34 runs for the 7th wicket with Ewan Johnston, but Steeton were 9 wickets down in their 40 overs with 144 runs on the board.

In reply Hayden decided the ‘spin’ was the answer and he himself opened the bowling. With the Burley score on 31 runs he was rewarded with his only wicket and finished with 8 tight overs that conceded only 16 runs as he collected a single wicket. Pick of the bowlers was Will Luxton, who took 3 wickets for 47 runs from 6.4 overs with a catch comfortably pouched at point by Mikey Hofman-Tennant. Will then returned the favour with a spectacular catch from the bowling of Mikey (1-29). Will ran and dived backwards before plucking the ball one-handed from the air in what was one of the best catches ever witnessed. Will was awarded 2 league fielding points. Steeton were unable to break the Burley 6th wicket partnership which added an unbroken 58 runs and took them past the Steeton target. Burley had scored 149 runs for the loss of 5 wickets in 34.4 overs. Steeton (5 points) lost to Burley-in-Wharfedale (17 points) by 5 wickets.

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

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11 June 2017 - 3rd XI v Guiseley (A) - Won by 8 wickets (19-4)

Guiseley 146 a/o in 33 overs

Steeton 148-2 in 29.2 overs

Steeton won an important toss at Nethermoor park…and asked Guiseley to bat first on a difficult track. Opening bowler Ewan Johnston (2-47) made excellent use of the helpful wicket as he reduced Guiseley to just 1 run with 2 wickets down with catches taken by keeper Phil Barrett and a sharp catch in the slips by Mick Wilson. Unstable footings for James Yeadon opening the bowling at one end brought the early arrival of skipper Hayden Tennant’s off spin. Hayden bowled two spells and finished with the excellent figures of 3 wickets for just 8 runs from 7 overs, including a high catch taken by Will Luxton at point. Guiseley were reduced to 27 runs with 4 wickets down by Harry Richardson (1-16), who removed Guiseley’s skipper Dickinson cheaply, well caught by Nick Brown in the covers. Will Luxton (1-26) took a good catch from a ball drilled back at him from his own bowling to remove Guiseley’s top scorer Fairbank (60). The Guiseley tail was mopped up by Aatif Modak, who finished with a 3-wicket maiden to give him figures of 3 wickets for 8 runs from 3 overs, with another catch going to Will Luxton. With 3 catches Will Luxton was awarded a fielding point, with the other going to the enthusiastic Finlay Brown. Guiseley were 146 runs all out in 33 overs, giving Steeton 5 bowling points and Guiseley 3 batting points.

Steeton lost 2 overs with rain, but had gained 7 overs from dismissing Guiseley prematurely, so they started with 45 overs. The sun was now shining brightly and the drier track was no longer ‘popping’. Steeton’s openers were Will Luxton & Aatif Modak and together they masterfully added 91 runs in 22 overs for the first wicket partnership, before Will was caught out for 47 runs scored from 56 deliveries with 1 six & 7 fours. Aatif went on to share a match-winning unbroken 4th wicket partnership of 57 runs with Phil Barrett, who contributed an unbeaten 22* runs from 24 deliveries with 1 six & 2 fours. Aatif finished with a fantastic unbeaten 71* runs, scored from 105 deliveries with 10 boundaries, including the boundary to complete the comfortable victory. One of Guiseley’s young bowlers, Cooper, slipped at the end where James Yeadon had earlier had difficulty. He was helped from the field and hopefully has not done himself any serious injury. Steeton had scored 148 runs for the loss of 2 wickets in 29.2 overs. Steeton (19 points) beat Guiseley (4 points) by 8 wickets.

Aatif Modak is my Man-of-the-Match

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18 June 2017 - 3rd XI v Otley (A) - Won by 7 wickets (20-3)

Otley 112 a/o in 29.1 overs

Steeton 116-3 in 28.1 overs

Steeton lost the toss and were asked to field first on an energy-sapping, stiflingly hot day at Cross Green. The wicket was excellent, but was very placid for pace bowling. Steeton’s young bowlers strived in vain as Otley reached 54 runs without losing a wicket. After 15 overs Steeton’s keeper Ryan Birch became too unwell to continue, and was replaced behind the stumps by by Phil Barrett, and supersub Nick ‘Troggie’ Brown came on to field. The wicket was more conducive to spin and the introduction of spin brought immediate success with skipper Hayden Tennant ripping out the top 4 batsmen as Otley went from 54-1 in the 14th over to 75-4 in the 20th over. Hayden finished with a fine 5-wicket haul of 5 wickets for 22 runs from 7 overs, with a sharp return catch from his own bowling and a well-judged catch by Ewan Johnston. The middle-order was swiftly dispatched by Steeton’s newly found spinner Aatif Modak, who took 4 wickets for 10 runs from 4 overs, including a stumping by Phil Barrett. It took Finlay Brown just 1 delivery to take the final wicket, caught by debutant Harry Rowe. Finlay Brown & Adil Modak were awarded the fielding points as Otley were dismissed all out for 112 runs from 29.1 overs, meaning Steeton would have 50 overs to score 113 runs. 5 bowling points for Steeton and 2 batting points for Otley.

Steeton’s reply began badly, with a certain amount of bad luck. In the 13th over Steeton were 39 runs with 3 wickets down, and Phil Barrett came in to join opener Aatif Modak. Without the need to score at anything more than 2 runs per over, together Aatif & Phil carefully compiled an unbroken match-winning 4th wicket partnership of 77 runs. Aatif top-scored with an unbeaten 57* runs scored from 88 deliveries with 9 boundaries; and Phil scored his unbeaten 37* runs from 50 deliveries with 5 boundaries. Steeton had scored 116 runs for the loss of 3 wickets from 28.1 overs. Steeton (20 points) beat Otley (3 points) by 7 wickets.

Aatif Modak is my Man-of-the-Match


9 July 2017 - 3rd XI v Ilkley (H) - Lost by 3 wickets (7-19)

Steeton 166-8 in 40 overs

Ilkley 170-7 in 39.2 overs

Steeton won the toss and and on a hot day at Summerhill Lane made the only sensible choice which was to bat first. Steeton’s innings was led by in-form opener Aatif Modak (82). Aatif opened with his brother Adil Modak (9) and together they posted 27 runs for the opening partnership. Aatif went on to share an even better 59-run 2nd wicket partnership with Bradley Akrigg, who contributed 18 runs from 44 deliveries with 3 boundaries. Aatif then had a 23-run 4th wicket partnership with Harris Rowlett, who contributed 11 runs from 11 deliveries with 2 boundaries. Aatif Modak was unfortunately run out for an excellent 82 runs scored from 103 deliveries including 13 boundaries. Aatif was out 32nd over with the score on 130 runs, but Steeton lost a further 4 wickets adding only 3 runs before Harry Richardson (16*) came in to join his skipper Hayden Tennant (14*). Hayden & Harry put on 33 runs for the unbroken 9th wicket partnership – Harry scoring his remarkable unbeaten 16* runs not out from 22 balls faced with 2 boundaries. Steeton closed with a reasonable total of 166 runs for the loss of 8 wickets from their 40 overs – honours even at half time with 4 batting points for Steeton & 4 bowling points for Ilkley.

In reply Steeton ripped out 2 early wickets both ‘Golden Ducks’. Ilkley were floundering at 2 wickets down and just 2 runs on the board…Ewan Johnston (1-39) & Bradley Akrigg (1-23) being the grateful recipients. To add to his 82 runs, Aatif Modak claimed 2 wickets for 23 runs from 8 overs with a fine drilled return catch as well as a nice running catch by Bradley Akrigg. Pick of the bowling once again was skipper Hayden Tennant, who finished with 3 wickets for 27 runs from his 8 overs, with a skied catch safely taken by keeper Phil Barrett. A tight finish to this match saw the scores level as we went into the last over, before the ring-field was pierced with a boundary to seal victory for Ilkley. Adil Modak was awarded the fielding points, but Steeton were left wondering at the 18 runs donated by them as wides! Ilkley had scored 170 runs for 7 wickets from 39.2 overs. Steeton (7 points) lost to Ilkley (19 points) by 3 wickets with 4 balls to spare. This loss means Ilkley have replaced Steeton at the top of the league.

Aatif Modak is my Man-of-the-Match for Steeton

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16 July 2017 - 3rd XI v Pool (A) - Lost by 3 wickets (8-19)

Steeton 245-8 in 40 overs

Pool 248-7 in 38 overs

Steeton won the toss and batted. Young opener Will Luxton top-scored with 96 runs, including 6 sixes & 12 fours. His opening partner was Aatif Modak, who scored 56 runs with 10 boundaries. Great opening partnership, and the excellent scoring continued with Adil Modak scoring 24 runs with 2 boundaries & Harris Rowlett scoring 22 runs with 4 boundaries. Final flourish courtesy of James Yeadon, who hit a six ad finished with an unbeaten 12* runs. Steeton had scored a mammoth 245 runs for the loss of 8 wickets in their 40 overs.

In reply Jack Luxton (1-40) got Steeton off to a great start, which was continued (and bettered!) by Ewan Johnston, who took 2 wickets for 25 runs from 8 overs. Will Luxton (2-39) also took 2 wickets from 8 overs with 2 catches by keeper Julian Higginson. James Yeadon (1-47) & Aatif Modak (1-39) took a single wicket each, but no-one was able to remove Pool’s Will Pallister (110*), whose century saw Pool to victory. Pool scored 248 runs for the loss of 7 wickets in 38 overs. Steeton (8 points) lost to Pool (19 points) by 3 wickets.

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


23 July 2017 - 3rd XI v St Chad's Broomfield (A) - Lost by 40 runs (6-18)

St Chad’s 128 a/o in 31 overs

Steeton 88 a/o in 28.1 overs

The first meeting ever between a Steeton team and a  side from St Chad’s Broomfield was at St Chad’s unassuming ground. Steeton won the toss and chose to field first. St Chad’s began well with a 45 run opening stand before skipper Hayden Tennant brought himself on to bowl he darting off-breaks. 45-1 soon became 58-5 as Hayden took a great 5-wicket haul…his 5 wickets costing just 19 runs from his 8 overs. Youngster Harry Rowe (1-18) nipped out a single wicket, before the tail was finished off by Aatif Modak & Harry Richardson with 2 wickets apiece. Aatif taking 2 wickets for 33 runs from 7 overs & Harry Richardson taking 2 wickets for 19 runs from 3 overs. With 8 clean bowled & 2 LBWs no batsman was caught out. Adil Modak & Ewan Johnston were awarded the fielding points. St Chad’s had scored a below par 128 runs all out from 31 overs. 3 batting bonus points for St Chad’s, but 5 bowling bonus points for Steeton.

In reply Steeton would have 49 overs to score 129 runs to win…at just over 2½ runs per over. Steeton’s reply was led by the Modak brothers, but when Aatif (10) was unlucky to play on whilst pulling the wickets continued to tumble. Harris Rowlett scored 11 runs and shared a 3rd wicket partnership of 22 runs with Mark Chapman (6), but when he was out the Steeton total was 41 runs with 4 wickets down. The middle order folded with only Mikey Hofman-Tennant (11) managing double figures, and Steeton were embarrassed to be reduced to 59 runs with 9 wickets down. Some respectability was restored with a 29-run last wicket stand between top-scorer Harry Rowe (13) & James Yeadon (11*). Steeton were all out for 88 runs in 28.1 overs. Steeton (6 points) lost to St Chad’s (18 points) by 40 runs.

Hayden Tennant is my Man-of-the-Match for Steeton

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13 August 2017 - 3rd XI v North Leeds (H) - Lost by 7 wickets (4-20)

Steeton 145 a/o in 38.5 overs

North Leeds 146-3 in 31.1 overs

Having won the toss Steeton proceeded to 55 runs before losing their first wicket: skipper Mark Chapman clean bowled for 24 runs scored from 41 deliveries with 5 boundaries. Mark’s opening partner was the in-form Aatif Modak, who top-scored with 42 runs scored from 59 deliveries with 7 boundaries. Steeton’s solid start was squandered as wickets tumbled at regular intervals. Ryan Birch (27) added exciting runs in the middle order as he bludgeoned 2 sixes & 3 fours as he faced 34 balls for his 27 runs. One positive from this match was the mature, unflustered batting of Jack Luxton (22*), who scored an excellent unbeaten 22* runs from 41 deliveries with 2 boundaries. Steeton finished with a disappointing 145 runs all out in 38.5 overs.

Steeton’s reply got off to a great start with a wicket off the very first delivery: Ewan Johnston (1-18) had the North Leeds skipper well caught at point by Mikey Hofman-Tennant. However North Leeds had proceeded without trouble to 100 runs before Steeton took another wicket, courtesy of a run out by Jack Luxton throwing in for keeper Ryan Birch to remove the bails. Before North Leeds could complete the victory, James Yeadon (1-29) clean bowled a batsman, but Steeton were unable to shift opening batsman Ahmad (54*). North Leeds scored 146 runs for the loss of 3 wickets in 31.1 overs. Steeton (4 points) lost to North Leeds (20 points) by 7 wickets.

Aatif Modak is my Man-of-the-Match for Steeton

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20 August 2017 - 3rd XI v Rawdon (H) - Lost by 7 wickets (1-19)

Steeton 96 a/o in 31.5 overs

Rawdon 98-3 in 27 overs

Batting first Steeton scored 96 all out in 31.5 overs. Ryan Birch top-scored with 33 runs from 42 deliveries with 1 six & 5 fours. Aatif Modak (15), Will Luxton (10) & Bradley Akrigg (10) were the other batsmen to reach double figures.

In reply Rawdon scored 98 run for the loss of 3 wickets in 27 overs. Pick of the bowlers was opener James Yeadon, who took 2 wickets for 16 runs from 8 overs with catches taken by keeper Ryan Birch & fantastic reaction catch at silly mid-off by skipper Hayden Tennant. Ewan Johnston (1-17) took the only other wicket to fall. Rawdon (19 points) beat Steeton (1 point) by 7 wickets.

Ryan Birch is my Man-of-the-Match for Steeton

Full Scorecard


27 August 2017 - 3rd XI v Adel (A) - Won by 8 wickets (20-3)

Adel 124 a/o in 34.2 overs

Steeton 126-2 in 31.2 overs

Steeton travelled to Adel to try to make it a 3-win weekend. Steeton lost the toss and Adel chose to bat first at Church Lane. After Adel had moved comfortably to 21 runs, Bradley Akrigg was brought on and he promptly ripped out the top 3 batsmen with catches taken by Jack Luxton, Ewan Johnston & down the leg-side by keeper Ryan Birch. Adel had been reduced to 30 runs with 3 wickets down in the 13th over. Most of the Adel middle order were then removed by youngster Finlay Brown, who returned his best-ever bowling figures of 4 wickets for 30 runs from 6 overs, with 2 catches taken at short mid-wicket by James Yeadon, along with 1 by Harry Rowe & 1 by veteran Phil Barrett. James Yeadon and Phil Barrett were awarded fielding points. A 2nd spell from Ewan Johnston saw him finish with 2 wickets for 19 runs from his 8 overs, courtesy of an excellent sharp catch in the slips by James Yeadon. The final wicket was well caught by Jake Hill from the bowling of Bradley Akrigg, who finished with excellent figures of 4 wickets for 5 runs from 5.2 overs. Adel had been bowled all out for 124 runs in 34.2 overs.

In reply Steeton opened with skipper Mark Chapman (17) whose 17 runs were brought up in 50 balls with 3 boundaries. Mark added 34 runs for the 2nd wicket partnership with Bradley Akrigg, who went on to score an unbeaten half-century, brought up with a six. Bradley finished with 54* runs not out from 68 deliveries with 1 six & 5 fours. Bradley shared a match-winning unbroken 3rd wicket partnership of 73 runs with 13-year-old Jack Luxton, who contributed 32* runs not out from 55 balls faced including 2 boundaries. Steeton had scored 126 runs for 2 wicket from 31.2 overs. Steeton (20 points) beat Adel (3 points) by 8 wickets.

Bradley Akrigg is my Man-of-the-Match


3 September 2017 - 3rd XI v Follifoot (H) - Won by Conceded (20-0)

Steeton 20pt

Follifoot 0pt

Follifoot were unable to raise a side and so have conceded


10 September 2017 - 3rd XI v Horsforth (H) - Cancelled (3-3)

Steeton 3pts

Horsforth 3pts

The 3rd XI season ends with a damp squib…the match against Horsforth is another victim of this weekend’s foul weather. Rained off with both sides collecting 3 points.

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