Hertford 2nd XI Fall to Big Defeat Against Redbourn

Redbourn won the toss and chose to bat on a typical Balls Park wicket and after a few exploratory overs where Orchard beat the bat – Redbourn then settled in. This proved to be the calm before the storm, Redbourn opener Hales motored after a few early plays-and-misses dispatching the ball all over the ground whilst fellow opener Yorath was content to play second fiddle. This was emphasised by the opening partnership which was worth 128, in which Hales scored 111 of those (from only 70 balls!)!

After that staggering century from Hales was ended by Rhodes, Redbourn where on course for a monumental total. Captain Chandler chopped and changed his bowlers hoping to find a combination that worked – however the 2nd wicket pair for Redbourn compiled a big partnership of 150 – albeit at a slightly slower pace than the previous one.

Thompson removed Yorath for 92 and then set about removing the rest of the middle order, on a day when all the bowlers went at 6+ runs an over, a Thompson 5-fer was the rare bright spot bringing home figures of 5-64 as well as a run out as well! The Hertford’s bowlers however were unable to stem the runs and prevent a big total and so Redbourn closed on a substantial 330-8 from their 50 overs.

In order for Hertford to chase this score down an individual was going to have to play a match-winning innings. Sadly this did not materialise for Hertford who were bowled out for a rather paltry 99 with only Chandler and Ray making worthwhile starts (27 apiece). Tight bowling and early wickets from Redbourn never allowed Hertford to get going and therefore Hertford never really had a foothold in the game.

After winning the first three games this was a day to forget for Hertford 2’s, but maybe also a day to learn lessons from. Even with the game perhaps lost there was the opportunity for extra batting points to be gained and someone to make a big score and statement. Next week Hertford travel to Welwyn who are the only other team alongside Redbourn to win all their games, it provides an excellent challenge for the boys to bounce back after last weeks disappointment!