WATTY'S BOYS COMPLETE WEEKEND DOUBLE OVER ELPM

The 2nds made it a double celebration this weekend with a comfortable win against East Lancs. With almost a full club roster to choose from, the team was strengthened with the inclusion of 1st XI vice captain Ian Hayes and bowlers Ry Marsh and young Brooky. The batting order was jigged round to allow for a good mix of youth and experience all the way down, which set the tone for a good team performance.

Watty top scored with 31 and there were good contributions from Mahmood and an important last wicket partnership from Hayesy (13 not out) and Rob Holt (26) to push the total to just over 150. For the home side, Steve Dwyer was particularly impressive. On a good batting ground like East Lancs, every run is vital, so it was important that the team bowled well as a unit. Hayesy made an early breakthrough and there was a good long spell from Superman Rob Holt who took 3-55 from his 14 overs. Farhan bowled a gem of a spell to take 2 wickets and then Mahmood came on and wrapped up the tail, taking 4 wickets in under 3 overs to secure another maximum points haul and keep the 2s at the top of the table. As with the 1sts match, the game was again played in a hard, competitive spirit with lots of banter between the sides. It's certainly been an impressive start to life in Division 3, long may it continue.

Captain's highlight of the day: "Stoney playing two lovely forward defensives, and then shouldering arms to one which removed the top of off stump. Priceless".