Southwell CC 1st XI v Bramcote 1st XI

Southwell CC 1st XI made the perfect start to their 2016 campaign by beating newly promoted Bramcote 1st XI at a bitterly cold Top Ground.

New captain Joe Fryer started things off by winning the toss and electing to bowl on what looked like a slow and low wicket after the midweek showers and snow. This decision was justified early on as opening bowling pair Max Collins (making his Southwell debut) and Dan Sprawson found early movement putting the Bramcote batsmen under pressure from the start. Both Collins and Sprawson picked up wickets to leave Bramcote 27/3 after 10 overs and Southwell on top. Sprawson was replaced by Wright who continued to build pressure on the new Bramcote batsmen as only Pat Cross offered long term resistance ending on 16 from 83 balls. Wright continued to pick up wickets as Andrew and Rimmer kept it tight at the other end with Collins coming back on for his second spell to finish off the Bramcote innings 61 all out.

Southwell took the decision to promote pinch hitter Burton up the order to open with Ogrizovic in the hope for a quick start to relieve any early nerves. The risk paid off as Burton hit 2 fours and a six in a quick fire 18 from 11 balls before being bowled by Spibey as Southwell had a slight stutter, losing 3 wickets on 31 runs. Miller and Hemstock steadied the ship before Fryer joined Miller in the middle to see Southwell through to a 6 wicket win despite some dodgy running!

An excellent start to the season for Southwell to pick up the full 20 points and provide the platform for a successful 2016 season.