Archived Match Report

First XI vs. Harborne - 29 Jun - Losing way to Harborne ground in Birmingham was not the only loss of the day for Canon Frome

Fielding a weakened team this week, Canon Frome suffered another disappointment but ultimately did well to cling to the losing draw, 7 useful points and remaining at the top of the division 6. Frome won the toss and invited Harborne to bat on the green damp track and a outfield that could have done with a cut, particularly as it was still wet under foot. However despite one early wicket for Ben Child with a regulation catch from Simon Cottrell behind the stumps not much went Frome’s way. Nicko persevered with good line and length but the pitch gave him little. Frome had a bowling aberration mid session with some 50 runs coming off 3 overs or so; candidly that was the turning point in the game. After the drinks break It took the steady hand of the Frome “go to” anchor man Luke Cottrell to restore order, ultimately delivering his 12 overs giving away just 33 for 4 wickets. Special mention for Simon C who did very well keeping taking a superb one hander off Luke and a decent stumping; he was also to deliver some very useful runs in the chase and occupying plenty of crease time. Harborne closed on 204 for 8 which with a drying outfield should have been “gettable”. Frome had other ideas.. Openers Backhouse and Hope looked comfortable so unfortunate that Hopey was run out as he was getting into his stride. Fortnam was again looking quality and could have expected wide mid off to spill a catch that was driven hard and low. Not to be and he went for 24. Badge kept Simon C company for a while, but the wickets fell regularly and the rate fell well below target. When Ben C was out for 16 after looking dangerous early on, It became a chase for the 75% target to secure the losing draw and to survive the 45 overs. That was achieved thanks to some stoic work from Luke and Will G in the final few overs and good work from Phil D and new comer Erik Harris. All credit to youngster Erik for his all round performance,he has much to offer in the years ahead. So back to the Frome next week. Improvement required if we are to stay top of the table. Question: is it compulsory in Birmingham to appeal for LBW on any delivery that hits the pads ? Well done Frome for keeping cool and batting on.