Ross-on-Wye Cricket Club’s second XI did not do their sponsors, Now Storage, proud on Saturday by succumbing to a six wicket defeat to Hay-on-Wye at The Park on Saturday, June 8th.  

Ross were asked to bat first in damp conditions after the heavy rain  of Friday night; Stuart Mair working hard as grounds man to keep the match alive.  The home team never overcame the accurate Hay attack and were bowled out for a exceptionally low score of just 53.  

Ross openers Richard Jeffryes and Wayne Husbands had made steady progress to 30-0 after thirteen overs trying to gauge the pitch and the bowlers.  But thereafter, the batting side collapsed in dramatic fashion, losing ten wickets for just 23 runs, five wickets falling when the score was on 40. 

Hay bowler John Sly was rewarded by getting five for just ten runs, and five of the Ross batsman were dismissed for ducks. 

It was ironic that there had been talk of having a 20 over game stating later because of the previous night’s rain, when Ross only managed to make the innings last for 25 overs when the game had been able to start on time.

Ross did actually bowl well, despite giving away too many extras, although the Hay batsman were never in danger of not reaching the required runs, even though no boundaries were scored.  Alexander Springer was unfortunate not to take a wicket in his spell of four overs but took an excellent slip catch off the bowling of Husbands.  Luke Timewell was amongst the wickets, as he has been consistently this season, getting three for eight to gain Ross two much needed bonus points.

Once again, Ross Seconds need to learn to apply themselves at the crease more effectively in order to challenge for victories.  They and sponsors Now Storage will be looking for an improvement on Saturday away at Woolhope.See this week’s paper for more stories like this, available in shops and as a Digital Edition now.