Honours even after tense chase at Chippers
posted: August 05, 2024

After weeks of waiting following a string of no-shows, it was a relief to finally return to action yesterday with our annual jaunt to Chippenham to once again compete for the Alan Wright Memorial Trophy. This year's edition sadly took place under the cloud of the of the recent loss of Chippenham regular Richard Ward (known simply as 'Woody' to all and sundry) who suddenly passed away. We send our deepest condolences to the club and his family.

Fittingly both sides marked the occasion by serving up yet another classic. In keeping with tradition, the home side won the toss and predictably chose to bat first. For the duration of the innings both sides sparred with neither truly imposing themselves – Marshall top scoring for the oppo with a well struck half century whilst, on our side, Connor starred with the gloves collecting a brace of catches behind and a stumping. After 40 overs of attrition, Chippenham called it a day and declared on 207-7 ...a sporting total for us to have a go at.

After enjoying the much-loved Chippers tea we set about chasing down our target but, despite several solid starts from our top and middle order, nobody managed to impose himself as wickets intermittently tumbled. As the church clock struck signalling the onset of the final 20 overs we found ourselves requiring 138 with seven wickets in hand meaning we could feel justified in having a go. After a fine cameo from Dickie (26) it was over to Dave and skipper Spencer to try and bring us home and, with still 84 needed from the final ten overs, the bums on the boundary began to squeak.

Sadly when the Kitten chipped one back to Wright to depart for 23, our chances faded and with Andy Bates last man in with 20 still needed from the final 9 balls it was time to baton down the hatches. Thankfully any potential blushes were spared and we saw out the remaining deliveries without further incident and, thus, the spoils were shared for another year. And so ended a great game and a fitting memorial to not one, but two Chippers legends. Well played, one and all!


Gavin Richardson
05.08.2024