After what seemed like weeks of uncertain weather, the sun shone and the runs flowed for the cricketers taking part in the LFB Inter-Station 6-a-side tournament held at North Middlesex C. C. on the 18th July 2007.
Play got underway at 10.00 with group matches, 5 overs a side with everyone except the wicket-keeper having a bowl. The standard of the teams varied, with several players not having ”done cricket” since school, if ever, but no-one disgraced themselves or was made to look foolish.
The officials, Andrew Brownlee, Andy Thomas, Mick Randall and Alan Rooke were rushed off their feet with two pitches being in operation throughout the day. They were assisted by players from various teams who were not competing at the time and a special mention should go to the chap who was felled by a fearful blow whilst engaged in duties at square leg. We salute you Sir if you are reading this!
Eight teams took part in the first round matches organised as two round-robins of four teams each. Those taking part were from Southgate, Whitechapel Blue, Whitechapel White, Whitechapel A, Shoreditch, Plaistow, West Hampstead and the Islington Crusaders.
With the group matches completed it was time for a spot of lunch. More than just a spot of lunch actually, more of a feast. More barbecued food than you can shake a stick at with all the trimmings and the bar was open and just when things were threatening to get completely out of hand it was time for more cricket. Jean and Tony Ellis, who had been there all morning rolled up their sleeves and settled back to enjoy the serious part of the day; the Knockout stages leading to the final and the presentation of the Kevan Ellis trophy.
The semi-finals of the main event Southgate vs. Plaistow and West Hampstead vs. Whitechapel Blue. Plaistow got the better of Southgate in a low scoring but tense affair whilst Whitechapel Blue couldn’t score enough to match the large total set by West Hampstead.
The Final was a gripping affair with West Hampstead again batting first and scoring 73 for 3. Plaistow looked in the match all the time; lost wickets at crucial times just falling short by 5 runs.
The Kevan Ellis Trophy was presented to West Hampstead by Tony Ellis who was joined by our very own Carole Connolly, from the Welfare Fund. Thanks for your support Carole.
There were several contenders for the Player of the Tournament award. Amongst the batsmen were L Hawkins, Russell Ferris and Mills. Bowlers included Grant Andrea and Jay Kambi, but the award eventually went to Darren Hutchison of Shoreditch who outscored everyone by a country mile!
A great day, one which I thoroughly enjoyed being involved with.
Thanks to North Middlesex C.C. for providing the facilities and excellent catering, Carole for coming down and presenting the trophy, to Jean and Tony, for being there and to Andy Phillips, who organised the tournament.
Alan Rooke