That's a Wrap

The game started a few minutes late on Saturday due to the presentation of the Second Division Cup. Team photos ensued, and Congs were most gracious in their applause. Eventually the game began with Riddlesden, having won the toss, batting first.

To say it was a dead-rubber game would be fair I think. Both teams had fun, with big-hitting, multiple bowlers, very little disappointment when out, and lots of laughter and gentle banter. Naveed scored 37 to continue his recent run of good scores. Aftab returned after missing the last 7 weeks with a quickfire 52, and Zullie continued his late season assault with another six sixes in his 67. Gully hit 35 and Ibrahim finished his excellent year with another 26. And the most surprising aspect may have been Hussnain Zia, in his first match for us in 2 years, hitting an unbeaten 54. Riddlesden finished on 339-9

Bingley Congs started sprightly with an opening stand of 62. Former Riddlesden player Towhid then had a bit of fun in a rapid 17 but it was brought to an end by a terrible bit of running which saw both batsmen in the middle discussing who's fault the run out was... Amazingly the next wicket to fall was also a run out, but at least hat one was a narrow one. Tony Teale (45) and Ryan Baines (35) kept the scoreboard ticking over during the middle of the innings, but Congs were gradually slipping behind the run rate despite Riddlesden giving everyone a bowl. Eventually the overs ran out with 9 wickets down on 235 for a final win of the season to the home team.

We finish with 21 wins from 22 and an impressive 416 points in this first season with the new points system. Interestingly that is the same points tally as first division winners Bingley Congs (first team)!

Whilst this match was being played, elsewhere much more important events were taking place. Eldwick & Gilstead started the day 6 points behind Silsden fighting for the runner-up position. Eldwick racked up a big score against Skipton CI and (eventually - they dragged it out from 26-8 to 129 all out)won with maximum 20 points. All eyes on Silsden against Bradley then. Silsden were bowled out for 139 and looked in trouble, but Bradley struggled initially. Slowly they closed, but lost their 9th wicket still needing 8 to win. It must have been a nervy affair, but eventually they took the victory, and with it ensured Eldwick & Gilstead join Riddlesden in the First Division in 2023! Top flight cricket every week next year at home!