Chesham CC w/e 2nd September
So near and yet so far as Chesham 1st X1 fulfilled their part of the promotion requirement by handsomely beating Buckingham by 117 runs in the final Home Counties Div2 league match. Unfortunately, Thame rather spoiled the party by beating new champions Aston Rowant and thus claiming the second promotion spot. Batting first Chesham scored at a decent rate throughout beginning with an opening stand of 80 between Andy Goddard (76) and the consistent Matt Rance (40). Luke Webb then fell for one of his very few lower scores (11) before Jason Rance (49) joined Goddard in a hard hit partnership of 85. With the demise of both there followed a mini collapse before Pip France (42*) laid about him to good effect to enable Chesham to total 272 for 8 from the mandatory 50 overs. Buckingham’s opening partnership was broken by Alex Watson followed by two wickets for Matt Warner (2 for 32). With the introduction of spin, wickets then fell regularly to Pip France 94 for 22) and the youthful Nouman Aslam (3 for 26) leading to the final dismissal with the total at 155.
The incredibly inconsistent cavaliers of the 2nd X1 finished their rock and roll season by overwhelming Hayes by 139 runs at the Meadow. After an unpromising start, partly restored by Ed Turner (29) and Theo Wetherall (23), there followed an exhilerating partnership of 113 between Luke Dawson (77) and Matt Watson (73*). Tom McInley then smashed a rapid 33, thus enabling Chesham to post an imposing 295 for 9. In reply Hayes were never in the hunt as wickets fell initially to Pete Clifford (3 for 38) before the introduction of spin sealed their fate with skipper Chris Royals taking 4 for 23 and Asad Rehman 3 for 34 to dismiss them for 156 in the 35th over.
The 3rd X1 gained their 5th consecutive victory in defeating Old Merchant Taylors 2nds by 7 wickets. In OMTs total of 141 Ben Sergent took 3 for32 with Mark Newsome (53) and Mo Asuaf (50*) the leading scorers in Chesham’s 142 for 3. The 4th X1 were beaten by 83 runs by Ruislip 2nds. Special vote of thanks to James Misseldine who has done a massive amount to ensure the 4th team develops its youngsters and with all his team being a year older next year it is highly probable this years relegation will be next years promotion!
In a double header Bucks Under 17s Cup and League Final at High Wycombe on Sunday Chesham beat the home side by 34 runs. Chesham’s total of 158 for 4 off 20 overs was due mainly to a good start from Nouman Aslam (33) and Luke Dawson (27) followed by hard hitting by Mark Newsoime (43) and Theo Wetherall (38). High Wycombe were then limited to 124 for 8 by good bowling from Joseph Rance (3 for 22), Humza Alam (2 for30) and Nouman Aslam (1 for 14). Backed up by tigerish fielding. Two titles for one match and a great way to end their Junior careers for most of the lads involved. Well done all and special thanks to Graham and Alison for their continued support and the efforts they have put into managing the side over the years.
Trevor Taylor