Optimists Cricket Club

The 1st XI travelled up to Vrijbroekpark in Mechelen for its penultimate league match of the season, looking to continue with its success so far. They were greeted with the slightly surreal situation of the neighbouring field hosting some Highland Games, complete with caber tossing, kilts, etc. So they spent a sweltering afternoon competing against a mainly Pakistani side to the sound of bagpipes echoing around the park.

Unfortunately it was not to be inspirational for skipper Heath who shouldered arms to the first ball of the game and was bowled middle stump. Tim and James Barker then rebuilt nicely on a slow outfield, with Will Cope, Tony Whiteman and Richard Neale pushed on towards the end of the innings, OCC scoring 103 runs in the last 15 overs to push the total to 234 in 45 overs, a seemingly satisfactory total.

However, Mechelen Eagles took the attack straight back to the OCC racking up 50 in quick time and never really looked back, despite losing wickets at regular intervals. Some excellent bowling by Anand Pattabiraman and Suhail Sadiq and a great catch at backward point by James Barker wasn't enough to stem the steady flow of runs from the Eagles and they crossed the line with four overs to spare.

This leaves the 1st team uncertain whether or not they have done enough to secure the top spot in Division 2. So the final fixture on Sunday 20th will be crucial - a rearranged match from the start of the season vs. Greens CC. Players are encouraged to keep match fit and make themselves available as possible, and supporters are also encouraged to come down to support the final push for promotion.