The long awaited first match of the season was greeted with much excitement and anticipation.
A youthful team including at least 4 under 40 took to the field against a strong Lindsell side, who the
mighty Bures have, as yet, failed to compete with. However, with youth comes energy and
determination, and the Bures bowling attack chipped away taking regular wickets, led by Captain
Carl (2 wickets) and Rupert who had a spectacular catch taken off his bowling by Charlie E. Defying
gravity and his vast age, he somehow stuck out a hand and grabbed a ball destined for another
boundary (already a contender for catch of the season).

Lindsell dug in but an inspired bowling change, a bit of luck and a good catch by Stu P broke the
stand, with Cracey then going on to take a further 3 wickets, one of which was superbly taken by our
athletic keeper Chris Ayers (a scenario surely never witnessed on the Bures pitch previously!) With
the Erith boys bowling in tandem, one of whom was carefully controlling the runs and also taking
wickets (Charlie E 2 wickets), whilst the other was cheerfully giving the oppo a decent chance!!
Captain Carl then brought on David (Fedora) Holme, who had stated prior to the start of the match
how much he enjoyed death bowling, then proceeded to give away 18 runs in 4 balls, and despite
another excellent piece of work in the field from Stu, manufacturing a great run out with a direct hit,
the last wicket fell with a few more runs on the board than we might have liked (162).
Tea was then taken, individually and sadly no cakes or team tea just yet as the dreaded Covid-19 has
spoilt this aspect of the game.

So, out to bat, and a dreadful start to the chase, losing 2 wickets in the first over. However, once
again the Erith boys came to the rescue, both rather sweetly scoring 34. And now to the highlight of
the day. Stu P strode to the wicket and proceeded to smash the ball to all parts of the ground and
beyond. In a partnership of around 80 runs, Stu hit 62 and Cracey swished about 62 times for a
meagre 17. Nevertheless, the victory was complete by 6 wickets and 10 overs to spare.
What a result! It made one 60 year old very happy! I am also delighted to say that we retired to the 8
Bells, where a satisfactory amount of beer was consumed.