Aston Manor 2nd Team

A glorious afternoon at Church Road was host to a nail biting game, against top of the table Oswestry. On a pitch which looked a great surface to bat on, the visitors won the toss and decided to bat.

The visitors began brightly reaching 90 without loss, before spin was introduced. Again the duo of Hobbis and Turner did an excellent job, bowling a combined total of 20 overs, giving away only 69 runs on a good batting surface. Trent Turner (2-20) provided Manor with the breakthrough on two occasions, but then the visitors again began to build a partnership. The Oswestry top 5 all made significant contributions, showing why they are top of the table. Manor rallied back in the last 10 overs, as Ricky Bassi (2-54) who also ran out Brierley on 48, was supported by Abdul Rahim (1-47). Oswestry finished on 264-6 from their 50 overs, which was a very good total. Manor proved to be the leaders of their own downfall as they gave away 40 runs in extras.

In reply, Manor got off to a decent start before Shahid Kureshi (13) was dismissed. Abdul Rahim (80) was then joined by Nabeel Asghar (50) who both showed very good application in constructing a very useful partnership, before Asghar was caught at mid-on. Scott Bryson (39) then joined Rahim at the crease, and again built a partnership, before Rahim was dismissed by a fine catch at mid wicket. Manor then lost 2 wickets in quick succession, before Bryson was also dismissed. Requiring 60 off the last 5 overs, Bassi (24) joined Turner (16*) at the crease, and launched an attack on the Oswestry bowling attack, putting Manor back in contention. Once Bassi was dismissed, Hobbis (24*) came to the crease and continued the attack on the bowling of their opponents. With 6 required off the last over to win, Manor continued to tick away in singles, and then required 1 run from the last ball for a win. Captain Turner, hit a four to take his side home in a thoroughly entertaining game.

Aston Manor continue their winning streak, as it becomes 5 victories in their last 6 games. Another 24 points means Manor continue to push further up the table.