The Turks

Match Report

The annual incursion of the Turks to east Kent, under Caliph Tony Brown, were lacking somewhat in manpower, when they met the Stragglers in battle at Belmont. However, a battling rearguard action posted a total which was nearly defended, and the Stragglers required their very own Prince Eugene of Savoy in the form of Charlie Munton, to sweep the Turks from the field. The Straggler attack was mean and effective, with the Turks tumbling to 42 for 5 before some stiffening of the sinews in the middle order. Richard Warlow (65) took on all comers, as Captain Stabb rotated his bowlers, and was well supported, putting on 94 for the sixth wicket. However, the reintroduction of Finn Hulbert’s well directed pace put the Turks to flight, and the innings subsided to 149, Finn taking 5 for 9.

Al Smallwood shouldered arms early doors, but the chase was then pursued with vigour by Harry Pattinson (53) and Finn (28) before the Turks managed a breakthrough. Runs dried up, as the Straggler elder statesmen struggled with failing eyesight and limbs no longer up to explosive pace. Nigel and Matt persevered and began to reel in the target, before Finn’s elder brother, a late call up for the Turks, removed both. Another brief hiatus, and the
overs were running out, but Charlie rode to the rescue hitting the final 10 from his first three balls.