Lindow 1st XI travelled to Hale Barns in good spirits despite their tough start to the season.
Things started well for the visitors, who won the toss, with Matthew Hoyle and Blayde Baker adding 41 for the first wicket. From there however the now all too familiar middle order collapse left Lindow 72-8.
Positive batting from Scott Howarth (24 n.o.) and Henry Grover (10 n.o.) saw the innings close on 110-9. The same pair then opened the bowling and a one handed caught and bowled from Grover left the home side 23-1. The bowlers continued to press, but despite a good catch in the deep from Howarth, they were only able to take two more wickets, with Hale Barns finishing 113-3. If Lindow are to compete in Division 1, their batting depth must improve quickly.
The 2nd team welcomed Hale Barns 2's to Upcast lane on one of the hottest days of the year so far. After winning the toss Lindow elected bat and avoid the afternoon heat, opener L. Howarth (23) and A. Inglis (30) made a brisk start, punishing anything that was loose to quickly bring the score to 58 off 13 overs before both were dismissed in consecutive overs. Lindow's middle order continued the assault with A. Hume (64), M. Parr (44) and K. Ahmed (21*) helping Lindow to a formidable total of 227 all out.
Hale Barn's innings got off to a tentative start and following the loss of both openers cheaply, Lindow scented the possibility of continuing their 100% record, however Hale Barn's middle order were able to frustrate the Lindow bowlers and, whilst the run chase was never on, managed to battle through to a comfortable draw, finishing on 142 8. Next week, Lindow 2nd XI travel to Stockport Georgians.
The 3rd team travelled to Langley on Sunday for their second game of the season. Lindow batted first and hit an impressive 205 for 4 off the 30 overs with Bosshardt (53*), Baker (54*) and Braddock (54*) all retired. In return the home side only managed 93 all out with Dhabi taking 2 for 21 and James Venables clearing up the tail with 2 for 8.
Member post by David Kendrick.
