After the emphatic win at Dereham the week before, hopes were high for the Norwich home game at the Common, despite the thrashing we had endured at Ingham earlier in the season.
Although last week’s match winner Alex Bilham was not with us this time, The King ( Will Kennard) was back and we had the added bonus of the Waitrose interviewee Alex Levinson, complete with spray tan, in our ranks. Our morale was also boosted by the visit of Swardeston legend Cadgey, with wife and child, reminding us of his questionable taste in clothing.
Thunder and heavy rain the night before had rendered the uncovered wicket a little green looking and it was not surprise when Norwich inserted us, having won the toss. We knew the first 10 overs were key and experienced openers Jessy and Jon did not let us down. They didn’t really give Norwich a sniff, resolute in defence and despatching the bad ball. They put on 49 before Jon was very smartly stumped down the leg side. Jessy soon followed to a strange LBW but this only cleared the stage for the main event which was an entertaining 75 run partnership between Kenny and Alex. After a cautious start, they soon got into their stride and treated their watching team mates to shots not seen previously this season. In addition, their scampering between the wickets broke Norwich hearts in the baking sun.
Alex was once badly dropped at mid off but the run rate was picking up when Kenny was unfortunately run out, chasing a quick second for 43. Davey Micklewhaite joined Alex and the run rate momentum continued unchecked. Alex was particularly strong with his straight driving and also manufactured a reverse sweep or two. Alex and Davey put on 70 before both were out, Alex for 73 and Davey for 29. We totalled 227 for 5, a great score in the conditions and, we felt, too much for Norwich.
And so it proved. After a poor start by the bowlers we soon reeled Norwich in. Sonny was pick, taking 5 wickets . Goon also took 3. Sonny also took 2 very good catches and Goon himself matched this. Norwich helped our cause with some injudicious shots but we took our chances. In the end we bowled them out for 158, a 69 run victory.
And so onto Bradenham away next week. After hurdling them into 3rd from bottom place as a result of this win, this will be a key game for us.
