Stunning conditions greeted us at The Valley of Peace for the match against Swannanoa CC with a 26-degree scorcher ensuring the refreshments at long off would definitely be required throughout the day. The pitch and outfield were excellent, and the lunch put on by Scott Cartwright & Barry Frost was exquisite.
Now that I have padded out the report, I can report on the actual cricket which wasn’t much to write home about for the Valley. Swannanoa won the toss and asked us to bat.
They opened up with a couple of lively young quicks, but it was change bowler Hayden Ryan (also a VoP member) who did the damage, ripping through the middle & tail, and picking up the extraordinary figures of 6 for 1.
Strategically placing himself at 7, the skipper was left 8* off 2 balls as he was left stranded, as VOP proceeded to lose 5 wickets in 2 and a bit overs. Valley of Peace all out for 50 before lunch.
Swannanoa CC knocked it off for the loss of no wickets in not many overs. Any thought of rustling up a 2nd abbreviated (by choice this time) game was not even entertained as the mercury rose close to 30, and the cold beverages beckoned.
As always, it was a pleasure to play at the Valley of Peace. Thanks to Swannanoa CC for travelling in, to Scott & Barry for hosting, and to Ant Polson and the team for the grounds.
Ben Larter, VoP Captain
