IN A remarkable match at Abwell on Saturday, a superb Oldlands bowling and fielding performance saw league leaders Frocester suffer a crushing defeat.
Electing to bowl first, the hosts made full use of the favourable conditions, bowling with penetration and discipline to the fields set.
Dave Brookes (1-20) was first to strike, having the prolific John Evans well caught at slip by Brad Thomas.
His new ball partner Dave Walton (3-13) was always testing the batsmen in terms of temperament and technique.
Mike Colborn (3-16) generated great pace in producing his most hostile spell of the season so far and Steve Heaven (2-6), with four overs of nagging accuracy, completed the destruction of the visitors’ batting line up.
Three good catches by wicket-keeper Bobby Woolams, others by Walton, Colborn and Nick Grove, and a sharp run out by Heaven provided excellent support.
Tony Clarkson (21) and number 11 Jim Curtis (11*) were the only batsmen to reach double figures.
The O’s faced the dangerous new ball Frocester attack of Nigel Riglar and Joe Rymell and the rapidly approaching poor weather, and at 23-3, nerves were jangling.
However, Heaven with two glorious straight sixes, ably supported by Colborn, saw the home side through to a memorable victory, perfectly timed as the skies darkened and the rain set in for the evening.
Stroud Cricket League 20/20 Plate Final - Frocester (171-6) beat Oldlands (155-7) by 16 runs
Frocester claimed their first piece of silverware this season as Oldlands fell just short at Pounds Close.
After Frocester were put into bat, Louis Gegg was out in the first over.
However, Chris Whincup (63) was ably assisted by Ash Davis (19), Jack Purchase(19) and Richie Cave (35) to take the score to 171 after the 20 overs.
Oldlands batted aggressively and were well up with the rate, with Brad Thomas (41) batting well.
After a few wickets fell the chase was not enough and Frocester came out as winners. Ollie Jones was the pick of the bowlers.
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