Tony Whiteman led a new-look 1st XI in the journey up to Hasselt last Sunday for a BCF T20 double header in warm but wet conditions. Four debutants joined the ranks and were to be welcomed at the ground with rain, chaos and no changing facilities which was perhaps an appropriate introduction. The game before us was just ending in heated discussion on the detailed subject of slow over rate penalties creating a change to the onfield match result (long story). Ignoring this, the Optimists prepared to take on the Division 1 side Crescent CC with well, optimism. Choosing to field, things started well with the the opposition soon in trouble and then struggling to penetrate the well-placed field. At 60 for 3 off 10 overs, things looked good and a sharp caught and bowled from Luka Dacic in his first over at this level was the highlight. But for the opposition, Ashiq began to show his class and ended the innings on 71 not out taking Crescent to 138 for 7 off the curtailed 19 overs. Of real note, especially in the wet, was the Optimists ability to keep extras low and only 8 were given which would prove crucial. In reply, there was an early wobble and with the score at 24 for 3 off 4, there were some nerves. However the class of Saransh Kulshretha (40 not out) and skipper Tony Whiteman (34) began to shine through and soon the tide had turned. But the true excitement arrived when Mohit Dixit took the crease and plundered 29 off 13 balls to take us close to target. Vikram Vijh sealed the win with 5 balls to go and an excellent 3 wicket win was recorded.
Recharging quickly to go again is not always easy as Hasselt CC began their innings in marginally dryer conditions. A wicket second ball, and a couple more later meant Vikram Vijh ended with 3 for 28 supported well in the field by good catches from the Sharma's (Rakesh and Sankalp). The highlight then followed with Saransh taking 3 wickets in a maiden over (hat trick avoidance was noted) to reduce Hasselt to 110 for 9 off 16 overs. Perhaps thinking the job was done and prematurely relaxing, the final pair were allowed to somehow add 24 scratchy runs which would prove decisive. In reply, a change of order was thought needed, but batsmen tended to get in and then hole out too regularly with only the skipper reaching double figures. It was left to Rakesh Sharma to get 27 off the last over with 9 down. Two huge sixes threatened a West Indian-style shock but the target was too far and we ended up losing by 12 runs. A classic T20 cricket lesson learned indeed.
All in all, the team left with heads held high and much to chat about for the journey home. These results mean OCC will not qualify for the final stages (recording 2 wins from 4) and must now concentrate on the BCF 45 over league and the challenge of 9 key games ahead. For the record, Umpire Scotty sends his best regards to all in Luxembourg.