Boyden & Beames Star As 3s Win

Maldon 3^rd XI vs Springfield Sunday 2^nd XI – Sunday 25^th April 2021
Report with thanks to David Boyden.

With a glut of early-season availability, Maldon managed to put out two Sunday elevens last week, one of which saw them host Springfield at Drapers Farm.

The visitors won the toss and elected to bat on a green but true wicket and openers Andrew Blundell (18) and Martin Southwell (19) made a steady start against Maldon’s bowling attack. Josh Lawes (1-18) made the first break for Maldon as Blundell skied a swirling catch to Andy Barnes at mid-on. Moments later, Barnes was involved in another wicket as he ran-out Sid Thunga in a dreadful mix-up after his first ball.

Next into the attack was the familiar bowling attack of Richard Howes (1-23) and David Boyden (5-23). Boyden struck next as he snuck a cutter through the defences of Southwell and, next ball, cleaned up Rufus Miller while Howes held down the other end.

Springfield’s mononymous Shan (70*) plied a positive and sometimes agricultural trade against the Maldon bowlers but Boyden was able to claim another scalp before drinks. Shan retired not-out on reaching his half century as batting partner Neil Kennedy frustrated the rotating Maldon bowlers.

Blackboro, returning to the attack, claimed a well-deserved wicket for his efforts as Lawes bowled with a maturity beyond his years. Boyden managed to pick up two more wickets as Springfield faltered and Howes was rewarded for his persistence. 

Shan returned to the crease to add a quick-fire 20 to his score and Springfield finished on a slightly disappointing 174 in their allotted 40 overs.

Andrew Barnes (43) and Angus Beames (50*) made a judicious start for Maldon as they put away any loose deliveries and saw off any early movement that was on offer to the bowlers. Barnes played particularly well off the back foot, using the pace to guide the ball to the boundary, until Shan (2-21) crept through and bowled him. Beames was especially strong through the on-side and managed to raise and carry his bat.

With new men at the crease, the free-flowing runs slowed but Mark Thorn (31) found a nice rhythm to carry his side towards the Springfield total, until he too was bowled. At the other end, Joe Gregory ground out an essential 19 not out and finished the job with his dad in-tow.

Maldon won with ten overs to spare.