Lindow's 1st team returned back to Division 1, after only one year, ending with a draw against local rivals Chelford. Promotion had already been secured the previous week due to results going Lindow's way, therefore there was no pressure going into the game.
Chelford won the toss and elected to bat on a fat looking wicket. Walker and Barker kept the home side restricted, until Walker made the breakthrough with the score on 20. Matt Ramsden was introduced to the attack and his spin bowling had Chelford in serious trouble, picking up 5 wickets in a superb spell of bowling. Bracewell, Peel and Hoyle all assisted in the bowling, leaving the home side on 180 from their 45 overs.
Lindow's batting order was slightly unusual, after skipper Walker decided to draw it at random out of a hat with it being the last game. Unsurprisingly a couple of wickets fell early before Christy's (31) and Bull (58) brought some stability to the innings and the match ending in a draw. The season has seen some superb performances from the Lindow side and a return to Division 1 next year will be a significant challenge.
The 2nd team, who were already confirmed as champions of Division B, welcomed Cheadle Hulme to Upcast Lane in an attempt to go the whole season unbeaten. Cheadle won the toss and elected to bat on a damp looking wicket. Grover and Mahmood bowled a tight opening spell, with Grover picking up 3 wickets. Kipper Inglis decided to rotate to the bowing, with youngster Tom Jones making his senior debut and bowling a lovely spell of left arm swing bowling. The visitors finished their 45 overs on 192 for 9.
The second innings didn't get off to the best start when Venables and Ahmed were dismissed early on, leaving Inglis, Day and Kendrick to rebuild the total. All three batsmen got a good start, scoring mid twenties but no one was able to push on and take the score towards the 193 target. Losing 6 wickets for 40 runs saw a disappointing end to the year and the unbeaten run of 21 games coming to and end. A fantastic effort by all involved and for the first time Lindow will be playing their cricket in Division A next season.
Overall a superb season for Lindow, with Live on the square family fun day and music festival to be held at the club this coming weekend. Headline act and X Factor Winner Matt Cardle will be on stage along with a number of other well known acts during the day. Tickets available on the day from 12pm.
Member post by David Kendrick.
