The 4s Lose Against South Hampstead

This was painful. After South Hampstead surprisingly chose to bat first on a very green track, Boots and Usman were soon into their top order. With South Hamps looking to pump at every opportunity, Usi was in his element, eventually picking up four wickets in an excellent 10 over spell. That set the scene for the arrival of our guest star – Dre. Once the XJ6 had rolled into the car park and he got himself onto the pitch, tied his laces, strapped his boots and declared himself ready, there was predictable carnage. The South Hamps batters simply couldn't handle that booming inswinger as he cleaned up the rest of the innings to take 5 for 16. All out for 98. There were 18 overs to bat before tea but that was time enough for the 4s to lose 6 wickets as Ibrahim bowled full and straight. Only Richard Verity held firm as the collapse continued after the break. There was some brief hope as Dre set about the bowling in his distinctive style but it wasn't to be. Ibrahim finished with 6-for and we were all out for just 81, an innings that included three golden ducks and a few 'interesting' decisions. Yet again, our batting let us down.