Rainhill’s 2nd XI Resilient Effort Cut Short by Rain

Liverpool CC 160 all out (Dunsmore 36, Miller 32; Tyms 4-29)
Rainhill CC 106-5 (Brown 54, Lowrie 24; Dunsmore 2-62)

Scorecard

On a humid Saturday, 20th July 2024, Rainhill CC 2nd XI took on Liverpool CC 2nd XI in the Liverpool and District Cricket Competition – 2nd XI First Division, sponsored by Love Lane Brewery.  The game, held at Liverpool Cricket Club, faced disruptions due to forecasted rain, which eventually led to its abandonment midway through Rainhill’s innings.

Rainhill won the toss and chose to field first, a decision that quickly paid off. Their bowlers were in fine form, with Stephen Pennington striking early in the first over of the match.  Pennington took 2 wickets for 26 runs in his 7 overs. Jack Lowrie also contributed significantly, claiming 2 wickets for 37 runs in 11 overs.  Nathan Lawler and Darren Tyms kept up the pressure, with Lawler taking 2 wickets for 24 in 6 overs and Tyms shining with 4 wickets for 29 runs in his 6 overs.  This disciplined bowling attack restricted Liverpool CC to a total of 160 all out in 37 overs.

Rainhill’s fielding was on form, highlighted by Simon Brown’s catche and two stumpings.  Despite some resistance from Liverpool’s batters, Rainhill’s bowlers ensured there were no substantial partnerships to propel the score further.

Chasing 160, Rainhill CC began their innings with cautious optimism.  Simon Brown was the linchpin of their batting effort, crafting a patient and unbeaten 54 runs off 118 balls, including 8 fours.  His steady hand was crucial in keeping Rainhill’s innings afloat.  Jack Lowrie offered a brisk and entertaining cameo, scoring 24 runs off 22 balls with 2 fours and 2 sixes. However, Rainhill’s progress was checked by Liverpool’s bowlers, notably Adam Dunsmore, who took 2 wickets for 62 runs in 16 overs.

Rainhill had reached 106 for 5 in 34 overs when the weather took a turn for the worse.  The forecasted rain arrived in force, halting play and ultimately leading to the match being abandoned.

Rainhill CC 2nd XI managed to secure 7 points from the encounter (2 batting points and 5 bowling points), while Liverpool CC 2nd XI earned 6 points (4 batting points and 2 bowling points).  Despite the match ending in a draw due to the rain, Rainhill’s strong bowling performance and Simon Brown’s resilient batting were the standout features of the day.