The Turks

Match Report

Another wonderful track at Belmont, the skipper ensconced in the folly tower, and a positively Mediterranean heat; it could have been the defence of Malta from the Turks in 1565. Leading from the front, James Stabb, removed an opener with a careless edge, but that was an early high point. Catches went to ground, spinners delivered pies, and the Turkish charge roared on. Charlie Munton chipped in with two catches and two wickets to limit the damage, but there was no doubt that the Turks were on top at tea declaring at 246 for 5.
Having chased the same target only a week before, and with plenty of time, there was confidence in the ranks, but the Turkish attack was made of sterner stuff, and the demise of the Allport opening pair reduced the pace of the assault. With 8 boundary riders, Charlie, batting with great patience and resolution, was reduced to endless singles and the occasional four, while cameo support flowered and withered all too swiftly at the other end. Will Gow, Justin Hubbard, Max Linington and Tom Wood all blazed briefly and expired. Seelking to up the tempo, Charlie picked one fielder too many, out for a very controlled 60, to leave the skipper and Ed Hewens to block out for a resilient draw, Boftie blasting the final ball for 6 to remind the Turks of what might have been.