The new year signalled the start of another cricket season as BPCC 2s took to the field against Houghton and Thurnby CC. The day began with the Bears losing the toss and being asked to bat first on a hard but distinctly green wicket.

Openers Josh Gallimore and Harry Armstrong were tasked with laying a strong foundation. Galimore managed to find the boundary several times early on, but Armstrong was dismissed for just 2, and Gallimore soon followed for 18. With the Bears at 39-2, Bradley Hurn and Charlie Sharpe stepped in. Hurn adopted an aggressive approach, compiling a well-crafted 30, whilst Sharpe was unfortunately run out for 6 after a mix-up between the wickets. Matt Davies’ brief stint ended with him departing for 6, followed by Pete Hewat who also made 6 before being dismissed. James Biggs and Cooper Hewat then stabilised the innings. Biggs scored a very good 45, supported by Cooper’s steady 9. Cooper was removed thanks to a sharp caught and bowled effort. David Popple contributed a measured 12 runs, and Biggs was run out in the final over. Andy Briault added some quick runs at the end, and the Bears closed their innings at 177 from 45 overs.

In the field, the Bears were missing injured Lewis Banthorpe. James Biggs and debutant Theo Keys opened the bowling. Biggs started well and bowled 5 overs for 20 runs. Another debutant, Charlotte Aylmore, impressed with a composed spell of 7 overs for just 31 runs, marking her as the standout bowler of the day. Matt Davies had a tough time, bowling 2 overs but struggled to find his line and length. David Popple broke through with the only wicket, aided by a sharp catch from Charlie Sharpe. Cooper Hewat bowled well in his 3 overs given the circumstances.

All in all, it was a positive start to the season, giving the squad valuable game time ahead of their league opener next week at home against Ancastor.

Our thanks go to Melton Building Society for sponsoring the match and their continued support of the club.