NHCC Match Reports 2023
Markington CC vs Newby Hall CC 13/5/23
A tough second game awaited at Markington for Newby. The skipper lost the vital toss and Markington elected to field first. Daniel and Jim opened the batting with aim to continue with the great start from last week. Daniel was dismissed for 0 with Jim following closely for 2. Orlando and Aaron shared the crease before the skipper shelled the ball to mid on being dismissed for 7. Orlando was joined by Grant and pair began to knuckle down before Grant was dismissed caught and bowled from a ball which sprung up from a good length. Orlando continued to knuckle down as he was joined by Nick Kent. the pair put on 8 runs before Kenty was dismissed for 6. Orlando was joined with his 5th batting partner Paul Virr. The score being a 50 for 4. The Pair put on a 50 partnership on before Orlando was dismissed for a classy 48. Paul continued the attack before being dismissed for 39. Newby were bowled out for 126 off 36 overs.
Newby returned to the field with a Mammoth task ahead of them. The wicket had began to dry and batting seemed to be easier as the day rolled on. Daniel and Grant opened the bowling against a strong opening batting pair. The skipper looked to Nitin to provide the first and second wicket of game leaving Markington 91 – 2. Tony Sidwell provided a tight spell but was unlucky not to pick a wicket up. Grant returned to the attack to taking 3 wickets with the support of Daniel who also took a wicket. Unfortunately the efforts were in vein with Markington chasing the total in 34 overs. Newby picked up 6 points through bonus points.
Newby are on the road again with a game against Harrogate 4ths. The team hope to turn their form around and gain valuable points.
Newby Hall CC Vs Spennithorne & Harmby 29/4/23
The 2 opening games of the season began with a wash out with the bad weather. The opening game came against Spennithorne and Harmby CC. Newby Hall won the toss and elected to field with bad weather on the forecast for later in the first innings. Grant Leivers and Daniel Virr opened the bowling for Newby Hall with great effect. Grant led the wicket taking with figures of 6 wickets for 17 runs in 7 overs. Daniel supported the attack with his tidy figures of 2 for 26 off 7 overs bowling Spennithorne out for 49.
It became Newby’s turn to bat with Jim Blackburn and Daniel Virr opening. The pair opened with a strong partnership of 40 before Daniel was caught at mid on for a patient 26 of 46 delivery’s. It was the Aarons turn to bat. Jim and Aaron finished the game with Jim scoring 14 off 35 delivery’s and Aaron scoring 6 runs from 14 balls.
A strong start for Newby picking up 19 points from the first game. We travel to Markington next with the aim to keep the momentum going and securing further points
NHCC Captain’s match reports – 2021
Kenty has 9 lives: 1 MAY, Helperby (A)
The Newby hall squad trickled in to Helperby for the second game of the season, looking for their first win on the 1st of May. The sun was shining but the forecast was dodgy. Pitch report suggested that the Helperby groundsman had forgotten to put the covers on, resulting in a soft, wet track to play on. The absence of frontline bowlers in the Newby playing XI was a minor concern as was the fact that another couple of players reported the ‘snuffles’.
The skipper won the toss and Newby elected to field. With a few customary warm-ups and pretending to catch, Newby took the field. The wicket keeper was 13-year-old Leon Blackburn, standing tall with mentor and dad, Jim by the side in slips. Dan Herron and Tony Sidwell started the bowling and did admirably. Apparently, Danny hadn’t touched a ball since 2 seasons – the rustiness, if at all present, wasn’t apparent. The line and length was impeccable from both ends with the odd loose ball that was dispatched to the boundary. The standard of wicket keeping was good too – the misses were always deflected to slip for Jim to stop by Leon, but Jim’s dives always came after the ball had gone through. Helped by the extras and a Mike Dennett 79, Helperby got to 155. The other batsmen didn’t really get going while Dennett played fluently for his 79. Some very tidy spells from Tony Sidwell and Andy Robinson as well as good fielding ensured that Helperby never really got on top. Alex Wilson, even though not 100% fit, unleashed a few overs of accurate yorkers which even the set batsman Dennett found very difficult to handle. Mukerji was expensive to begin with but once settled into a rhythm created the chances and the safe hands of Jim Blackburn got rid of the Helperby top scorer. Mike Shires kept wickets in the latter half of the innings to give Leon a break. Special mention to Jacob and Andy for an excellent job in the field.
After a relaxed tea break, having consumed the BYOT offerings – the Newby openers Jacob Wilson and Nick Kent took to the crease. The start was fluent as usual with a flurry of boundaries, especially to the young seamer, Sowray who had a tendency to stray down the leg side to Kenty and needless to say, Kenty did not miss out. Jacob fell after a short cameo, still adjusting to his role as opener. Paul Follett and Jim Blackburn came and went giving company to Kenty who was the show stealer. He had 3 of his usual 9 lives and was it on the eye when trying to pull a short one from Henry Chandler resulting in stoppage of play while an orthopaedic and a neurosurgeon, usually sworn enemies, worked in tandem to contain the torrential haemorrhage from a 0.5cm laceration in the superior palpebral crease exposing the transverse fibres of the orbicularis oculi. The bleeding stopped, Kenty passed a concussion test and was fired up to carry on. Chandler had to stop bowling as his right arm over – turned to a truly right arm all over, his spell cut short due to dangerous bowling. Thereafter, Kenty just cut loose, playing some lovely shots all over the ground and seemed in a hurry to finish this off. Tony Sidwell joined Kenty for a rather uncharacteristic and laboured 19, but seemed to come into his own eventually as he finished the game off with a towering straight six. Newby Hall won in 25.4 overs with 7 wickets to spare.
Newby Man of the Match: Nick Kent 90 off 86 with 17 boundaries and black eye. Well played Kenty, rolling back the years.
Catches win matches: 24 APR, Bishop Monkton (H)
On a bright and sunny day, the start to the 2021 season, Newby Hall took on Bishop Monkton CC. The squad seemed well prepared after a practice game with Charles Densham making his debut. The outfield and the pitch looked absolutely perfect thanks to the hard work of groundsman and wicket keeper Mike Shires.
Newby Hall won the toss and chose to bat. Given a history of previous collapses in such ventures, Newby began with caution. Paul Follett and Nick Kent played each ball on its merit and kept the scoresheet moving. Some good new ball bowling by D. Wigby and Alf Bartle ensured a keen contest. Kent had his usual ‘life’ and was dropped on 9. He went on for a bit longer and but eventually got bowled by an excellent yorker by young Bartle. Jim Blackburn then joined Follett. Contrary to his style, Blackburn started with a flourish against some loose deliveries outside the off stump by Westgarth. Normal service resumed soon after and cautious play resumed ensuring safe passage till the 20th over. Blackburn then perished, LBW and this brought Devroy Bentick to the crease. With his customary Caribbean flair and nonchalance – Bentick took on the bowlers with some aggressive strokeplay for which he is now almost synonymous with. In one over Wigby went for around 20 runs including a towering straight six. Follett and Bentick departed soon after with the score on 169. Tony Sidwell never really got going but late little cameos from debutant Densham and Mukerji helped Newby get to 185 which was an eminently defendable score.
After lunch, Newby started executing their plans in the bowling department and got the dangerous Charlie Hutchinson out cheaply. This was pretty well set up with Bentick bowling round the wicket and Darren Sidwell taking a catch at gully. Although wickets kept falling at regular intervals, Newby kept leaking runs with a combination of some loose bowling, occasional sloppy fielding but most importantly with the inability to hold on to catches. As the saying goes – catches win matches, and eventually Bishop Monkton caught up with the target with 2 overs to spare. The junior batsmen at Bishop Monkton played a commendable part in the win and batted very sensibly under pressure and full credit to the young lads.
Positives from the game – sensible batting, plans and their execution, some good bowling.
Areas for improvement – definitely fielding and catching and some better bowling.
Scorecard: https://nidderdaleleague.play-cricket.com/website/results/4827180
Newby MOM: Devroy Bentick…not much doubt about that today. Well played Benny.
NHCC Captain’s match reports – 2020 (Credit: Alex Wilson, Captain NHCC XI, Alex Goldie and Paul Follett)
18/07 Markington (H) – The Return of Cricket
The early forecast of 18/19°C sunshine soon changed by the time the weekend came. It was a showery day, covers on, covers off. At the toss, the pitch looked very well but with the overhead conditions and forecast Newby decided to bowl first.
Newby Man of the Match – Devroy Bentick, A solid knock with the bat and some good bowling.
25/07 – Sessay 3s (A) – A solid team performance
The fixture looked in doubt on Friday Night/Saturday morning with rain all around. The rain stopped and stayed away, arriving at the ground we were met with a slightly under prepared track that looked like it would have something in it for the bowlers. The skipper lost the toss and unsurprisingly we were asked to bat first.
A couple of candidates for man of the match, Benny with figures of 3-8, but for his all round display (if we don’t mention the drop catch off his Dad’s bowling) it goes to Darren Sidwell, sticking around at the end for 18 and bowling through the pain barrier for 10overs picking up 3 wickets and taking a nice catch.
01/08 – Thornton-Le-Moor (H) – More runs required
Newby welcomed Thornton-Le-Moor on a day of variable weather. Captain Wilson won the toss, a toss he wouldn’t have minded losing as he wasn’t sure what to do. Electing to bat, the progress was slow and steady as the visitors bowled some tight lines and lengths and set some good fields. Alex Goldie getting his rewards for digging in with 57 (85 balls, 8 x 4) sharing a nice parternship with the returning Jim Blackburn who looked good for his 18 (29 balls, 1 x 4). However a stream of very good catching and bowling meant there was a steady fall of wickets and Newby were never able to build any real momentum. Rich Harland and Nigel Jefferson the pick of the visiting bowlers with 3 wickets a piece. Newby were well aware they were 30 or 40 runs short and a good 2nd half would be required.
15/08 Goldsborough (A) – Newby win
Rested after their Covid-enforced bye Newby Hall took a side brimming with experience (and backache) on the short away trip to Goldsborough CC. By contrast the opposition majored on youth – less than half their side were old enough to drive – so the stage was set for a clash of the generations.The pitch was a used one with a covering of live green grass but thanks to the previous fortnight’s hot weather it was dry underneath. Naturally being a Saturday in August in Yorkshire the blue skies had been replaced by low grey clouds and cooler temperatures. To complicate things further the outfield was clearly fast and the boundaries quite short, particularly on the road side. All in all deciding on a par score batting first wasn’t going to be easy. Captain Jim Blackburn was advised it was “a good toss to lose” so promptly marched out and won it, asking Goldsborough to bat first.
Darren Sidwell opened the bowling up the hill with Devroy Bentick sharing the new ball. Both bowled with great credit and the batsmen looked distinctly uncomfortable from the very beginning. Bentick made the initial impact, clean bowling one opener before getting the other to play on. Some variable bounce was apparent but the pace and accuracy of the Newby pair was really testing, with the ball consistently beating the bat but not the excellent Mike Shires behind the stumps. Had a difficult chance or two been taken in the outfield then NHCC might have crushed the life out of the innings but as it was Goldsborough dug in, with youngster Mark Wood applying himself doggedly and playing the short ball well.
The young pair of Goldsborough batters (combined age: approx 30) faced up to Newby’s first change pair of Nick Kent and Tony Sidwell (combined age: Late Cretaceous Epoch). Sidwell T. bowled Jake Stalker for the third wicket with 50 on the board but the next batter Ethan Ive hit out and the score quickly advanced to 80-3. The batsmen, growing in confidence, attempted a risky run to new recruit Tom McIlwaine at deep midwicket. They clearly hadn’t spotted his Army XI cricket shirt and were shocked when he threw down the stumps from the deep with the batsman patently yards short, although not quite as shocked as Newby’s team were when the umpire declined to give the batsman out.
One of those awkward and angry silences descended over the ground but NHCC had no choice other than to swallow their remonstrances (mostly) and carry on. It was the end of the over, so Nick Kent seized the ball at the other end and almost immediately struck the fortuitous batsman somewhere vaguely in front of the stumps. The other umpire, in whose heart the noble flame of Justice still flickered, raised his finger and honour had been restored. And as if to underscore the point McIlwaine almost immediately ran out the other set batsman with another direct hit from the deep. Once was impressive but twice just seemed like showing-off.
At 82-5 NHCC might have been forgiven for thinking the lower order batsmen would roll over cheaply (after all that’s what we always do in the circumstances). However the Goldsborough colts were like the heads of the Hydra in Greek Myth – every time we cut one down another rose up to carry on the fight. James Wood, almost certainly a twin of Mark Wood, and Ethan Godsell-Wright first steadied the ship and then counter-attacked to more than double the score to 168 before the next wicket fell. Blackburn was forced to bring his opening bowlers back early to try and break the partnership, meaning we never really got to see whether the pitch would turn for Nitin Mukerji who bowled a scant four overs including two at the death. Eventually the innings concluded with Goldsborough just short of 200 runs at 196-7 from their 40 overs. The Newby fielding had been keen, led by McIlwaine and Julian Hodges but a few chances had been missed along the way.
By now five weeks into the shortened season of 2020 and the standard of self-catered teas had really risen. NHCC’s men wasted no time in breaking out the tupperware and flasks, with smoked salmon sandwiches making perhaps their first appearance in the Nidderdale League.
Alex Goldie opened the batting with his old-mate-new-recruit-definitely-not-a-ringer Tom McIlwaine. The Goldsborough attack was rumoured to contain a handful of Yorkshire U-15 players but after a watchful start the Newby men started to impose themselves, with Goldie hitting 14 off one over before being bowled all ends up by a straight ball from James Wood.
Nick Kent went in at 3 and was advancing quickly on double figures when McIlwaine, for reasons known only to himself, tapped the ball to midwicket and called for the single. The eager young fielder needed no second invitation and ran Kent out with a direct hit when he probably had time enough to walk the ball up to the stumps.
Devroy Bentick was the new batsman and he soon found his range, whilst McIlwaine was suitably chastened and focused on making amends for his howler. Despite the best efforts of the Goldsborough lads the runs began to come, at first in a trickle but pretty soon in a flood. Bentick was given more licence to hit out and struck the ball very sweetly indeed, bringing up his first 50 for the club in only his 14th innings as the pair added 107 for the third wicket.
A late heavy rain shower couldn’t derail Newby’s chase and the target was reached in the 34th over with McIlwaine unbeaten on 82 and Blackburn on 12. By the recent standards of Newby Hall CC the chase saw the absolute bare minimum of drama. Goldsborough have a very talented crop of young players and if they can keep that cohort together they will be a powerful force in seasons to come. Newby may have taken this match but if a source of young recruits and fresh blood isn’t found soon then the two clubs will be heading in different directions.
29/8 Hampsthwaite (A) – Batting is Again Newby’s Downfall
Following a very wet final week of August, Newby Hall travelled through the mist and drizzle to high-flying Hampsthwaite on Saturday, looking to continue their winning run having overcome Goldsborough and Spennithorne & Harmby in recent weeks.
Despite requiring the services of only 17 different players to fulfil their six games so far this season Newby were fielding their third different skipper of the season. Captain Follett was faced with the expected damp, green tinged track, which, all credit to the Hampsthwaite grounds-team, looked better than could have been expected given the preceding week’s often monsoon conditions. He was therefore relieved to win the toss and ask the opposition to bat first.
The Newby bowling attack was opened by the Sidwell family, with Sidwell Junior (Darren) bowling a good line and length without much luck and Sidwell Senior (Tony) producing a very miserly 10 over spell (10 – 0 – 25 -1) including a delivery which clearly surprised both himself and the opening batsman Taylor by how much it moved off the pitch to clip the top of the stumps.
Sidwell Junior was replaced in the attack by the somewhat less ‘Junior’ Nick Kent who bowled well but he will rue a couple of missed caught and bowled opportunities against opener Barratt. Barratt played well, consistently hitting hard and straight and he was denied what seemed like a likely century (after Kent had unfortunately dropped him a further two times in three balls off of the returning Sidwell Junior), by a hamstring injury which saw him forced to retire on 85.
Single wickets apiece for, Sidwell Junior (10 – 0 – 44 – 1), Nitin Mukerji (10 – 0 – 50 – 1) and Kent (10 – 0 – 55 – 1), plus a late run out, saw Newby restrict Hampsthwaite to 179 for 5 in their 40 overs. Given the slow, damp wicket and almost continuous drizzle slowing the outfield, both sides would be relatively content at (the now more familiar feeling bring your own) tea with what potentially look like just above a ‘par’ score given the conditions. Newby will again though look back on missed catching chances in the field, though positives can be taken from the work behind the stumps of Mike Shires and in the field of Julian Hodges, Kush Mukerji and the returning Mike Henstock (who claimed not to have turned out for the club for three years, but given his fluency in the field this is an assertion the Newby Hall statistician team will be looking more deeply into!) who between them certainly saved a good few runs.
After tea, Newby were faced with surprising pace and carry from Hampsthwaite opening bowler McClelland, who was ably backed up by Beeley and first change Blackwell. Openers Alex Goldie and Kent though moved the score on, relatively untroubled, to 45 before Goldie (18) was bowled by McClelland. This unfortunately ushered in an all too familiar Newby Hall batting collapse which saw the next 5 wickets, including Kent who top scored with 32, falling for only 18 runs. Despite some late hitting from Sidwell Junior (19 not out), and some very late hitting by Jacob Wilson (who perhaps should question the new captain’s wisdom of moving him from no.4 last week to no.11 this week), Newby never looked likely to challenge the Hampsthwaite total and the innings subsided to 97 all out. Newby, as has often been the case in recent years, ruing their inability to occupy the crease and accumulate runs.
Despite this setback, Newby remain one of six teams vying for the final play-off place in Division Four as they travel to fellow play-off chasers Bishop Monkton next week, for what could be their last game of a strange season impacted so significantly by COVID-19.
Given the result, there were only a few candidates for Newby’s Man of the Match this week, and whilst honourable mentions go to the only other two Newby players to get to double figures, Alex ‘long on to long off for 30 overs’ Goldie and Nick ‘how many was it you dropped again?’ Kent, the award goes to Darren Sidwell for some consistent bowling without much luck and some late lusty hitting.
Onwards and upwards…. Over and out from the stand-in, stand-in captain.
NHCC Captain’s match reports – 2019 (Credit: Alex Wilson, Captain NHCC XI)
Newby Hall vs Hampsthwaite (A): 20 April 2019 – Captain’s Match Report
On a lovely sunny afternoon the skipper won the toss and decided to bat first on what looked like a nice hard track. It soon became apparent that the track was a bit softer underneath the surface than it looked. Our openers stuck at it, struggling to find their rhythm on a slow pitch. Newby’s innings showed signs of promise with some silky stroke making from Stu Rennison (47) and some hard hitting from Tony Sidwell (34) who were the only batsmen who ever really looked comfortable. Rennison falling with the scores at 119-5 saw the incoming batsman struggling to get in on a slow pitch, a steady fall of wickets saw the visitors all out for 156 with 5.1overs left to bat. These missed over would be Newby’s undoing. George Beeley finishing with figures of 10-2-28-5.
The second innings started slowly with some excellent bowling from Nick Kent (10-6-12-3) and Darren Sidwell (10-4-24-2) both bowling excellent 10 overs spells in the afternoon heat. John Foggitt (67) provided the backbone to the hosts innings with some sturdy defence and seeing off the bad balls on offer. Foggitt was ably assisted by captain Paul Taylor’s 57 with some unorthodox strokes following a shoulder injury which saw him retire hurt and bravely come back in. Newby’s change bowlers struggled for consistency and some half chances going down and a few early season misfields seeing the home side close in on the target. Hampsthwaite won the game on the 1st ball of the 39th over 8 wickets down. Newby can be proud of their efforts in a game that probably should have gone the other way. Plenty of positives to build on and a few tough lessons to be learnt going forward. Newby’s man of the match goes to Stuart Rennison for a great innings and some exceptional glovework. Onwards and upwards next week at home to Spennithorne and Hamby, come along and show some support
Newby Hall Vs Ouseburn (H): 4 May 2019 – Captain’s match report
On a very cold, very windy day, the skipper won the toss and chose to bowl first. Two debutants, Devroy Bentick and Jacob Wilson taking to the field for Newby for the first. Benny started strongly with a couple of looseners before clattering one into the stumps in his first over. Nick Kent at the other end was set upon by some aggressive shots, struggling for his rhythm in the face of some attacking intent. The visitors scoring at a very quick rate, Newby putting down/missing a couple of catches allowing the visitors to get a partnership going between Will French (56) and Harry Smith (31). The captain brought himself on and once again struck with his loosener, Smith falling to a wide half volley that the skipper will tell you was all part of the plan! This brought Jonty Moorhouse to the crease who survived a tight LBW decision to build a brilliant innings of 56. A flurry of late wickets for Nitin Mukerji and Nick Kent saw the home side collect all 10 wickets. Ouseburn setting a challenging total of 215.
Newby’s innings didn’t get off to a good start in the face of some tight bowling Newby were scoring slowly and lost both openers cheaply before Mike Shires (43) and Paul Follett (25) taking their time to build a nearly 100 partnership. Follett falling to a comical dismissal bowled via his body with the ball only just dislodging the bail in slow motion. This brought debutant Benny to the crease who showed signs of good things to come with some powerful stroke play before a pre-meditated shot didn’t come off. Steve Potter (31*) nearly seeing the side home in the final over with some big hits but the visitors hung on for a 8 run victory.
Newby Hall Man of the Match: Steve Potter – for some excellent fielding and catching and almost seeing the side over the line at the end.
A few contenders for man of the match missing out. Benny for this all-round display, Mike Shires for his batting and glovework and Nick Kent for his brilliant death bowling.
Falling short in another tight game means the side can reflect on plenty of positives and rue some missed opportunities. The win is just around the corner. Next week we travel to Thornton-Le-Moor confident of securing our first victory of the season.
Newby Hall vs Thornton Le Moor (A): 11 May 2019 – Captain’s match report: Newby Wins
Driving to the ground through all kinds of weather a game of cricket seemed unlikely, on arrival the ground looked well but bad weather looked imminent. The skipper won a vital toss and put the hosts in, batting was difficult on a tricky surface in the face of some tight opening spells from Darren Sidwell (9-1-22-2) and Alex Wilson (8-2-18-2), the latter taking 2 wickets in 2 balls near the end of his spell. As the bowling changed, so did the weather and the players left the pitch eventually taking an early tea resulting in both teams losing 5 overs. The hosts came out from the rain break with renewed energy and set about scoring quickly through their captain Tom Stead (46 – 3 x 4s, 3 x 6s), ably supported by opener Martin Harland (46 – 5 x 4s), both of whom were given a couple of chances by the Newby fielders. After Tom and Martin were out the incoming batsman struggled for rhythm and were guilty of trying to hurry the game on too quickly, a couple of run outs and 3 wickets for chairman Tony Sidwell (10-0-34-3) pulling the game in Newby’s favour.
At half time the team were confident of chasing the target as long as they stuck at it and used all the overs. The openers started slowly with the ball moving around a bit in the early stages. Alex Goldie sticking at it for a dogged 19. At the fall of the first wicket, Stu Rennison (31 – 6 x 4s) brought a bit of impetus to the innings with some lovely stroke play. The middle order caught up and kept up with the run rate, some powerful hitting from Tony Sidwell (33 – 7 x 4s), and some well timed shots from Steve Potter (18 – 3 x 4s) and Jim Blackburn (18 – 3 x 4s). The game was nicely balanced between bat and ball, Julian Potter (10-3-37-1), Nigel Jefferson (6-1-21-2) and Josh Barley (6-1-24-3) the best of the bowlers for Thornton-Le-Moor. It was left for the lower order to see the side home, the captain hitting the winning runs from the last ball of the 34th over. A well deserved victory for the visitors and hopefully the first of many.
Man of the match for Newby: Tony Sidwell – A good middle over bowling spell that deserved more from his fielders and for moving the innings along and getting the game in Newby’s favour with the bat.
Also thanks to Andrew “Taff” Stacey who came along to watch “for a little bit” and ended up fielding for the injured Paul Follett.
The team look forward to a cup game on Tuesday evening as they welcome Bolton Abbey to Newby Hall CC for a 6:30pm start, come along to support the lads if you’re free. The weekend sees the first game of a double header with Helperby, at home for a 1:30pm start. The team hoping to build a bit of momentum and get a good run going.
Newby Hall vs Helperby (H): 18 May 2019 – Captain’s match report: Newby extend unbeaten run
Helperby lost the toss and were asked to bat by the skipper, Darren Sidwell (10-3-29-0) starting with 3 maidens and looking very good in his wicketless afternoon, Alex Wilson (10-0-52-2) opening with Daz saw his first ball disappear to the fence before taking a wicket from a juicy half-volley with his 4th ball. That brought Tom Spilman (75) to the crease who batted very well, punishing the bad balls with some hard hitting, and sticking around in the face of some very tight middle overs from Tony Sidwell (10-1-41-1) who was unlucky with a couple of drops and Nitin Mukerji (10-1-31-1) who was the pick of the hosts bowlers. Spilman built some nice partnerships firstly with David Sowray (24) and later with Alex Clayton (25) near the end of the innings before falling to an excellent run out from Darren Sidwell who only had one stump to aim at. The innings drawing to a close at 158-6, probably slightly under-par on the day.
The home faced faced with the challenge of 4 an over. Started strongly before Michael Shires (11) saw himself ran out. The hosts were still well on top at the first rain delay. Coming back on, needing 159 from a revised 38 overs Jim Blackburn (29*) and Nitin Mukerji (10*) both looked very comfortable. Unfortunately a further rain delay brought an end to proceeding with captains shaking hands with Newby well placed at 51-1 from 13 overs. A well deserved 16pts. A good game played in great spirit and a good performance all round from Newby. We go again next week against the same opposition hoping to come out on top.
Newby Man of the Match: Nitin Mukerji – Some excellent bowling in the middle overs and a convincing 10*
Special mention to Danny Herron for agreeing to play last minute. Cheers Danny!
Newby Hall vs Helperby (A): 25 May 2019 – Captain’s match report: Newby extend unbeaten run
Helperby won the toss and chose to bat first on a hard looking track. The opening bowlers both bowled tightly Darren Sidwell (10-2-26-1) and Devroy Bentick (10-2-26-2) the Helperby batsman playing themselves in slowly before attacking the change bowlers. Oli Turner (94 – 12 x 4, 1 x 6) who survived a drop catch and the ball hitting the stumps was the first wicket to fall with the scores at 158, a quick stumping by Mike Shires, the batsman trying to hit the ball a little too hard and only managing to hit himself in the head. A few quick wickets saw the home side drop to 172-4, 2 wickets for Bentick and 1 for Sidwell. The latter needed a 5 man consultation to decide that the batsman did hit it. Nick Kent took the final wicket thanks to a sharp catch from the skipper at midwicket. Kent on the receiving end of several misfields making his figures look much worse than he bowled. Mike Dennett carrying his bat for the home side, finishing on 74 (7 x 4) cashing in on a (difficult) dropped catch before he was off the mark. The home side in a strong position on 202-5 at tea.
After a lovely tea Newby took to the field, Nick Kent fell early to a mistimed shot, quickly followed by Mike Shires (29 – 3 x 4) who’d looked in good touch before chopping onto his stumps, both falling to Andrew Harrison (8.4-2-30-2). Devroy Bentick was out soon after in similar fashion. The score falling to 48-3. Newby found some fluency through Nitin Mukerji (21* – 4 x 4) and Jim Blackburn before the continuing rain became too much. The players left the field with the scores at 73-3 from 17.4 overs. The home side ahead in a game that could have gone either way.
Newby Man of the Match – Mike Shires – A sharp stumping, a catch and a fluent 29. (Let’s not mention the drop and the byes – which were very wide)
Another competitive game, our unbeaten run stretches to 3 games ahead of our trip to Ripon. We go again next week needing to tighten up our efforts and attitude in the field!
Newby Hall vs Ripon (A): 1 June 2019 – Captain’s match report: Another win for Newby
Arriving at Ripon during a light rain shower the covers were on but the pitch looked well. Tossing up during the drizzle the hosts won and put Newby in. Despite the early loss of Mike Shires, Newby scored at a good rate through opener Nick Kent (30 – 4 x 4) and Stu Rennison (58 – 6 x 4, 2 x 6). Nitin (14) and Benny (14) both got starts but the visitors lost a flurry of wickets mostly to Dan Watson (8-0-33-6). The visitors looked well set for 200+ at one point but the last 7 wickets fell for just 21 runs. All out for 137 runs with 11 overs still to bat.
At the interval Ripon were confident of knocking off the modest target, they got off to a slow start, Newby’s openers bowling very tightly. Darren Sidwell’s opening spell of 10-5-16-3 was very impressive. The hosts were 63-4 after 20 overs. The game evenly balanced. Newby’s change bowlers bowled really well, Nick Kent (7.1-2-18-3) and Tony Sidwell (4-0-4-3) were able to secure the victory for Newby. Paul Ainsley (20 – 3 x 4) and Tom Gaunt (29 – 5 x 4) the only men to get going for the home side. Ripon eventually all out for 74 in 29.1overs, losing their last 8 wickets for 11 runs.
It must be mentioned that Newby’s fielding and catching was unrecognisable from recent weeks. Not a single misfield and Darren unlucky not to cling onto a very difficult chance (he was probably the only fielder who’d have got hands on it). Some good catches all round Shiz x 2, Rennie x 2, Sid x 1 and Nitin with the catch for the final wicket. Another good win for Newby who welcome top of the league Upper Wharfedale to Newby Hall next week.
Newby had several contenders for Man of the Match who were all worthy of the award, Rennie for his run a ball 58 and 2 catches, Nick for his opening 30 and 3 wickets, Sid for his 3 wickets but I’m going to give it to Darren Sidwell for his opening spell which set the standards and put the hosts on the back foot.
Man of the match: Darren Sidwell – for his opening spell which set the standards and put the hosts on the back foot and some excellent fielding
A good win for Newby and let us keep the momentum going…outstanding effort on the field too, no misfields, no dropped catches…
Newby Hall vs Alne (A): 15 June 2019 – Captain’s match report: 6 games unbeaten 🙂
Following a week of heavy rain, some sunshine Friday afternoon onwards meant the game was on. Arriving at Alne the ground looked surprisingly well, but the forecast wasn’t great. The skipper lost the toss and unsurprisingly was asked to bat first.
The visitors started slowly however Paul Follett got off the mark with an uncharacteristic 6, followed by a characteristic apology to the bowler. The visitors lost some early wickets however, falling to 40-3, Paul’s (29 – 4×4,1×6) steady accumulation ably assisted by Andy Robinson (52 – 4×4,1×6) saw the hosts slowly rebuild. Paul’s wicket saw Tony Sidwell (51 retd hurt – 3×4,5×6 from 32 balls) come to the crease and showcase some brutal hitting before being called through for a quick single which saw his hamstring/knee give way to the tune of “Oh fucking hell” and a high pitched “ooooo” that sounded like a pigeon and lot of arm and leg waving trying to regain balance before gravity took over and he clattered into all 3 stumps. The hosts were much more concerned about his condition than his team-mates who struggled to hold back the laughter to check on their chairman (video footage on the website and facebook doesn’t do it justice). Some late wickets saw the visitors run rate slow and they eventually posted a respectable 173-7. Jon Henly the pick of the bowlers with 10-3-37-4.
The sides came in for a lovely tea before taking the field for the second half. The weather had come in a bit, there was drizzle in the air and dark clouds loomed. The hosts were keen to get on with it. Paul Hutchinson (33* – 5×4,2×6 off 20balls) smashing the ball to all parts. Both opening bowlers struggling to settle in. Darren Sidwell struggling with his line and skipper Alex Wilson having not bowled for a month struggling with his length. The latter getting the only wicket of the second half, Mike Shires claiming a stumping after the batsman came forward to one that beat his outside edge and didn’t make his ground. Following a short 10 minute rain delay the sides came back out but only briefly as the rain set in again and no further play was possible. The homeside finishing on 51-1 from 6.4overs.
Man of the Match – Tony Sidwell – A brutal 50, that had his body allowed would have probably turned into an 80. Some big 6s and his injury was the moment of the game and will be a story told for quiet a while. I’m sure Tony is thrilled the moment was caught on camera.
The team are at home next week, welcoming Middleham to Newby and hoping for some better weather.
Newby Hall vs Middleham (H): 22 June 2019 – Captain’s match report: All good things must come to an end…
Finally a bit of sunshine on a saturday and the skipper won the toss and chose to bat. The hosts made a steady start with the openers accumulating slowly until Paul Follett (34 – 3 x 4) was given out LBW. The incoming batsman struggling to form partnerships with opener Alex Goldie who batted all the way through accelerating through his innings to 115* (11 x 4, 4 x 6) with some lovely shots. Nick Kent (17 – 2 x 4) and Jim Blackburn (10* – 1 x 4) the only other batsmen to reach double figures. The hosts posting a respectable 205-6. The side felt like they left a few runs out there but Middlehams close fielders had a good day.
The game was evenly poised as the sides enjoyed a lovely tea. The visitors made a positive start to the run chase as Devroy struggled with his lines and lengths. Nick Kent enjoyed a bit of fortune for his first wicket, their opener picking out point from a wide half volley, the worst ball he bowled all day as he bowled a 10 over spelk straight up (10-4-30-2). The other bowlers struggled to contain Oliver Mullard. The captain bowled a decent first 8 over spell before coming back on at the end to destroy his figures. The hosts lacking another bowling option were unable to contain Mullard (122* – 17 x 4, 3 x 6) who saw his side home with 2.4overs to spare.
A poor second half fielding display proved costly, in contrast to the first half Newby were unable to cut out singles and stop 2s. They also gave away 29 extras to Middleham’s 5. All proving very costly in a tight game.
Man of the Match: Alex Goldie. An excellent 100, very well timed innings. He also claimed a late wicket.
Newby travel to Burton Leonard next week hopeful of re-starting their unbeaten run.
Newby Hall vs Burton Leonard (A): 29 June 2019 – Captain’s match report: Back to winning ways
The pitch looked very well on a lovely Summer’s day. The skipper lost the toss and this hosts, who were missing a few regulars to the first team chose to bat. Darren Sidwell starting with 2 uncharacteristic (really wide) wides before settling into a good line and length. The pitch offering a bit of up/down variation making it difficult for the Burton openers to get in. Darren picking up a couple of quick wickets and being unlucky not to take a couple more. Finding the edge on a few occasions only to see it fly behind the wicketkeeper and first slip. Nick Kent bowled tightly finding plenty of movement and testing the batsmen. Alex Goldie came on and took apart the middle/lower order with a mixture of variety and excellent bowling finishing with figures of 6-2-12-5. Darren Sidwell (8.1-2-25-3) coming back on to finish it off. The hosts all out for 67, Mike Shires picking up 3 catches and unlucky not to cling onto a low chance early on.
The sides enjoyed tea in the sunshine before taking to the field for the second half. The captain’s instructions very clear, bat properly and make sure. A task adequately completed by openers Alex Goldie (39* – 4 x 4, 2 x6 in 45 balls) and Paul Follett (23* – 4 x 4 in 49 balls) getting to 68-0 in 15.3 overs. A great 20 point victory for Newby who return to winning ways and hope to continue that trend as they head to Spennithorne next week without the captain.
Man of the Match: Alex Goldie for his bowling and batting. A brilliant 5for and an assured red inker.
Slacker of the Day: Nitin Mukerji, sitting down on the job whilst umpiring at square leg.
Newby Hall vs Ouseburn (A): 20 July 2019 – The return of the Captain’s match report
We arrived at the ground greeted by a short rain shower and some dark clouds looming. The forecast varied depending on which media outlet you trusted. Newby won the toss and Wilson chose to bowl on a very green looking deck. He wasn’t disappointed as his opening bowlers obliterated the Ouseburn top order. Devroy “Benny” Bentick (10-1-35-4) and Darren Sidwell (10-2-18-2) reducing the hosts to 32-6. The hosts steadily rebuilt through the resilience of youngsters Jonty Moorhouse 26 (4 x 4, 78 balls) and Will Bennison 39* (6 x 4, 85 balls). The Newby change bowlers were equally as tight as the openers but breakthroughs proved difficult to come by. Nick Kent bowling much better than his figures suggested, mostly down to a quickfire 22 (1 x 4, 2 x 6, 18 balls) from captain John “Moose” Moorhouse. Kent’s figures let down by the captain dropping a couple of chances in gully, the first a difficult diving effort, the second a regulation catch down low that went in and out. A couple of close run-out shouts followed before the hosts finished on 136-9. Special mention to Jim Blackburn taking the gloves and doing a brilliant job.
After tea the Newby openers set about the modest target. Starting slowly both openers played some classy strokes. Kent 17 (3 x 4, 37 balls) and Goldie 28 (2 x 4, 1 x 6, 43 balls) setting the platform for the top order, who did not disappoint. Jim Blackburn backing up his first half ‘keeping efforts by anchoring the run chase with 37* (4 x 4, 50 balls). Leivers 23 (5 x 4, 26 balls) and Bentick 2 (3 x 4, 1 x 6, 33 balls) providing the firepower in the middle orders. The side crossing the line at 140-4 in the 32nd over. Noah Melling (6-2-24-2) the pick of the Ouseburn bowlers. A brilliant all-round display from the Newby Hall lads who look ahead to 4 home games on the bounce, building momentum both on and off the field. The club is finally shaping up!
Man of the Match, a difficult decision with a few contenders. Darren Sidwell bowling brilliantly once again, Jim Blackburn doing well behind the stumps and top scoring. However, with 4 wickets and 25 runs it has to go to Devroy Bentick! Well played Benny.
Newby Hall Vs Pannal 2s (H): 3 Aug 2019 Captain’s match report: Only got ourselves to blame
Despite several days of bad weather the pitch looked incredibly good, a few damp patches on the outfield but the track had been covered and looked well, just a bit damp underneath. The captains tossed up and Pannal lost, Wilson choosing to bowl first. The Newby openers set about their work brilliantly, Darren Sidwell made the early break through and bowled some unplayable deliveries. Pannal opener Paul Barton’s 43 (67 balls, 4 x 4, 1 x 6) did a great job blocking/missing the good balls and putting away the loose ones taking a particular liking to Kenty’s bowling to accelerate once he was in. The change bowlers took steady wickets in the middle overs Grant Leivers bowling a controlled 10 over spell and picking up 4 wickets (10-4-20-4). The only middle order runs coming through some lusty blows from Alex Forsyth against Tony Sidwell’s bowling. The tail wagged a little bit as the returning openers struggled with their lines, both returning decent figures though. Devroy Bentick (10-2-27-0) and Darren Sidwell (10-3-30-2). Mike Shires did brilliantly behind the sticks to keep the byes down to 14 as there was a lot of fast legside deliveries. The visitors finished on a very chaseable 157-8, Newby disappointed at half time feeling they gifted Pannal a few too many runs in the field.
The Newby top order struggled only Nick Kent 17 (30 balls, 2 x 4) and Jim Blackburn 10 (23 balls, 1 x 4) managing double figures as the hosts (mostly) throwing their wickets away and falling to 51-6. Paul Follett 34* (64 balls, 2 x 4) and Mike Shires 22 (35 balls, 2 x 4) rebuilding before Shires fell, leaving the scores at 98-7 and the required rate up around 5 an over. An unlikely victory seemed possible as Alex Wilson managed a couple of boundaries but tried one shot too many and missed a straight one. Darren Sidwell falling 2 balls later meant the visitors were well on top. Devroy Bentick who found himself in at number 11 following a trip to York was unable to see the side over line, falling to 136 all out after 37.1 overs. The wickets shared quite fairly amongst the Pannal bowlers, youngster Archie Barrett the pick of the bunch for holding his nerve and picking up the last 3 wickets to see his side home.
Newby left to rue the 20 or 30 runs too many they let Pannal get away with in the first half by being 5 yards too deep or slightly out of place. The side look ahead to another game against Pannal next week and hoping for some top order runs to make the difference.
Man of the Match had several contenders Darren bowled brilliantly and Paul nearly saw the side home batting brilliantly under pressure however for an excellent 10 over spell picking up 4 wickets it goes to Grant Leivers.
Special mention to Jacob Wilson who expelled in an evening game of HORSE and likened his earlier fielding dive down at fine leg to “Trebuchet” Courtois. Think you meant Thibaut mate!
Newby Hall vs Upper Wharfedale(A): 24 Aug 2019 Captain’s match report – A bad toss to win
A beautiful sunny for a lovely long scenic drive to the ground. On a very sunny day the wicket looked a little soft and damp. Following a conversation with Mike Shires the captain was unsure what to do if he won the toss and openly admitted he would like to lose the toss. The unfortunately Wilson won the toss and chose to bat, which looked a poor decision after the first couple of overs as the track was much wetter and softer than it first seemed. The openers struggled getting their timings right with the ball digging into the pitch a bit and the bowlers getting a decent amount of lateral movement. Opener Paul Follett sticking around for 81 balls for his 25 (3 x 4, 1 x 6) one of only 2 batsmen to look in good nick on this track. Devroy Bentick the other smashing 26 (29 balls, 5 x 4). The hosts bowlers making the most of conditions, wickets were shared out but Matt Daggett was the pick of the bowlers returning figures of 10-5-17-4 and beating the outside edge consistently. UWCC were brilliant in the field, in particular their slip catching. The visitors falling to 95 all out in 38.4 overs and wishing another batsman had made a quick 20odd.
The teams left the field for a brilliant tea, Newby coming to field with the challenge of “let’s make a game of this, it’s not going to be easy to bat on.” That challenge didn’t seem to be going to well when UWCC opener Jack Schindler raced to 10 off the first 5 balls before leaving one on the top of off. Giving Devroy “Benny” Bentick (8.1-3-26-4) the first of his 4 wickets. Darren Sidwell at the other end picked up 2 early wickets to see the hosts fall to 34-6 and it really was game on. Captain Joe Daggett (30* – 51 balls, 3 x 4, 1 x 6) steadying the ship ably supported by Charlie Lawn (30 – 31 balls, 6 x 4) in a partnership of 57, taking the game away from Newby. The hosts needing just 5 to win when Danny Herron bowled Lawn with his first ball. The hosts crossing the line at 96-7 in 21.1 overs. A valliant effort from the Newby boys, if only the captain had chosen to bowl first…
Newby Man of the Match – Devroy Bentick for a quick fire 26 and 4 wickets.
Newby look forward to a home game against Alne 2nds next weekend, hoping to get back to winning ways.
Newby Hall vs Alne (H): 31 Aug 2019 Captain’s match report – A good performance
A miserable morning saw us rushing to get the covers on, it was still drizzling when we arrived and at times looked a little dark. Alne won the toss and chose to bowl. Alex Goldie (15 – 3 x 4, 20 balls) played a few nice shots before leaving a straight one and Jim Blackburn followed shortly after, both openers out with only 17 on the board. Grant Leivers anchored the innings (50, 8 x 4, 63 balls) with some nice shots as middle order wickets fell around him. With Grant out and the score at 103-6 Michael Shires (36, 4 x 4, 52 balls) and Tony Sidwell (25, 1 x 4, 1 x 6, 39 balls) came together and provided a good partnership to see the hosts to 162-8. The wickets evenly shared with Hinchcliffe, Henly and Stirke picking up 2 a piece.
The game evenly poised at the tea interval, where teams thoroughly enjoyed the bacon and sausages on offer.
Newby took to the field and saw both openers back in the shed inside the first 2 overs. No. 3 Will Hall (19, 1 x 4, 26 balls) let off by first slip early on. Brad Hinchcliffe (53, 6 x 4, 90 balls) also gave a couple of early chances to Danny Herron’s bowling, batting well to anchor the run chase before running himself out near the end trying to keep the strike. Some tight bowling at both ends saw the run rate required creeping up, the hosts regularly changing the bowlers not allowing the batsmen to get set. A few missed catches were made up for by 2 good run outs by Alex Goldie and Mike Shires. Newby had a knack of taking wickets at the right time. Devroy Bentick (10-3-20-3), Grant Leivers (10-2-26-1) and Alex Wilson (8-0-22-1) the pick of the Newby bowlers as the visitors eventually fell well short on 128-8.
A very good team performance and a good 18pts for Newby Hall. Let down by 5 drop catches, some which were more difficult than others. The team head to Middleham next week and are now mathematically safe from the relegation zone.
Man of the Match – Grant Leivers
A good 50 and some good bowling, he just needs to learn to listen to Jim a bit more…
Newby Hall vs Burton Leonard 2s: 14 Sep 2019 Captain’s match report – A dominant performance
The final game has come, the Newby pitch was looking excellent and is a reflection on all the hard work Mike Shires puts in. The team welcomed Burton Leonard 2s who are going through a similar transition period that Newby themselves have experienced in recent years. Newby Captain Alex Wilson won the toss and chose to bat, openers Nick Kent (29 – 6 x 4) and Alex Goldie (66 – 9 x 4, 1 x 6) putting on 83 for the first wicket scoring at a good rate. Jim Blackburn using his self-proclaimed 4 shots to good effect on his way to 63* (10 x 4, 2 x 6) before retiring “to give other lads a go.” No. 4 Grant Leivers not so selfless as he smashed his way to 94 (12 x 4, 2 x 6). Jim’s retirement brought Jacob Wilson (28 – 4 x 4, 1 x 6) to the crease who’s keen eye saw him play some lovely shots. Shot of the day being a flick to the legside that sailed onto the clubhouse roof! The hosts posting a brilliant 317-5 in their 40 overs. The visitors requiring nearly 8 an over for victory.
Following a mammoth tea and a quick Newby team photo the sides came out for the second half. Devroy Bentick and captain Wilson opened the bowling and runs were hard to come by, Wilson picking up the first wicket with a rare wide delivery. The first scoreboard update saw the scores at 19-1 from 13 overs. First change bowler Grant Leivers was once again in the wickets picking up 3-13 in his 4 overs. Alex Wilson bowled a strong 10 over spell, picking up 2 wickets for around 20 runs. (The scorebook slightly muddled up Wilson’s and Bentick’s over, must be the similar looks and paces they bowl). Wilson’s spell from the village end was brilliantly followed up by Nitin Mukerji’s spell of 9.5-4-14-4 all of his wickets were ‘Bowled.’ The real highlights however were coming from the estate end, Jim Blackburn forming the “Spin Twins” and bowling with flight and guile (so I’m told) and creating several half chances, if only he had a slip and 10ft tall fielders he could have had a 5-for. As it was he finished with figures of 0-18 from his 5 overs. This brought a nervy Jacob Wilson on, confident from his batting display he took a few balls to find some rhythm. He bowled some good balls in what was a (slightly) mixed bag, but thoroughly deserved his wicket maiden and was thrilled to be presented with the match ball after the game to commemorate the moment. Newby’s 317 never looking achievable as Burton Leonard limped to 100 all out with only 1 ball left. We wish Burton Leonard all the best for next year and hope they can turn things around.
A dominant team display from Newby with several candidates for man of the match: Grant, Alex and Jim all amassing half centuries, Grant with 3 wickets, Nitin with 4. For his all round performance of 94 and 3 wickets it has to go to Grant Leivers.
A good result to bring the season to a close and good to see a bit more positivity surrounding the club following a difficult few seasons for the team and club. Credit to the people who have seen the club through (hopefully) the hardest times, plenty of people becoming passionate about the future of the club. A recruitment drive required for some big plans to come to fruition… watch this space.
Thank you to everyone who has supported me/us this season whether it be playing cricket every week, or once a season or coming up for a pint every now and again. Any support no matter how big or small is always appreciated. Thank you to the several committee members who work behind the scenes ensuring the club runs smoothly. Thank you to Shiz as previously mentioned for maintaining the ground to such a high standard, and others who have helped him out along the way (Sid, Jules etc.). Thank you to Sid for keeping the bar stocked and thank you to Steve Potter for his fundraising and events, with much more to come as the club look forward to the Golden Oldies competition as a focal point of next year’s calendar. Onward and upwards.