Match Centre

5th Team's first home fixture

The Hatherley & Reddings 5th XI played their first-ever home fixture at Naunton Park, welcoming Arcadians Nine Elms—a side still searching for their first win of the season but showing promising signs in their previous outings.

While home advantage might normally play a part, it was somewhat neutralised on this occasion, as none of the Hatherley players had yet played a match on the Naunton Park wicket. The pitch looked decent but was expected to play a little slow and low.

Winning the toss, Hatherley elected to bat first. The innings began cautiously, but progress was hampered by the regular fall of wickets. Despite a few promising moments, the 5ths reached the drinks break at 87 for 5, with the innings struggling to build meaningful momentum.

The break seemed to fire up the Arcadians bowlers. They struck immediately after the restart, removing the Hatherley skipper, and quickly tore through the lower order. Hatherley were bowled out for just 97.

With a low total to defend, early wickets were essential. There was brief hope as the Arcadians openers were tested in the initial overs, and the introduction of spin helped slow the scoring. Despite some probing bowling and a couple of near chances, the breakthrough didn’t come until later in the innings.

Hatherley did manage to claim three wickets in quick succession, but by then the Arcadians had built a solid platform and completed their chase comfortably, securing a 7-wicket win and their first victory of the season.

For Hatherley, it was a case of wondering what might have been with a few more runs on the board. Still, valuable experience was gained, and lessons learned as the team looks ahead to their next home outing.