Brooklands return to win series 2-0

Over the weekend, Marsa CC played against returning touring team Brooklands who were here on their third visit in five years.

On Saturday, J. Pearson opened the batting for Brooklands and did a splendid job scoring 78 runs. His opening partner, E. Woodage, made 29 runs before being run out. P. Derbyshire made 13 runs before becoming Sarfraz Ali's first victim.

Ali continued to cause mayhem to the batsmen, taking A.J. Harts's wicket (29) as the visitors scored 200 runs and were bowled out with two balls remaining in the innings.

John Grima and Mark G. Sacco opened the batting for the hosts. The latter was given caught behind by the umpire and was not happy about it. Grima went on to make 15 runs before being caught.

Tim Edwards was going along steadily before he was hit on his arm by a rising ball and retired injured. He had scored 13 runs. Sam Dhandapani managed seven runs and Mike Caruana scored 20 before being very well caught by the keeper.

Chris Naudi was a shining light in the innings. He kept the home side's hopes alive with a superb 82 from 58 balls which included 12 4s and a 6. He was well supported by Gordon Hewitt who scored 12 runs.

Unfortunately for Marsa, however, they were bowled out for 177 runs, 23 short of their target. For the visitors, Woodage followed up on his runs with four wickets.

Marsa fielded a changed side for Sunday's second game with Naudi being the only player retained from the previous day.

Marsa won the toss and elected to bowl again. Again Pearson batted well and made 64 runs. P. Clowes scored 32 and six other batsmen made it to double figures. For Marsa, Nadeem Ashraf and Naudi were the main wicket-takers taking two wickets each.

Marsa's run chase was not as exciting as that of Saturday with the home side being bowled out for 120. Joy Ghoseroy top-scored with 31 runs as M. Roberts and J. Bagshaw were the main wicket-takers for Brooklands, taking two wickets each. Brooklands won the series 2-0.

Next Saturday, Marsa take on new touring team Beeston & Toton at 10.30 a.m. at the Marsa Cricket Ground. Nursery activities will be from 9.30 to 11.30 a.m.