After a rather rainy morning, the skies cleared, allowing play to get underway only an hour later than scheduled - much to the surprise of the team, particularly considering the initial scepticism (especially from the Metcalfs and Treen) who felt the fixture might've succumbed to the weather before arriving at the ground.

The 2nds were asked to bowl by Nantwich skipper Andy Newton, which sparked no complaints from the CBH dressing room who were keen to restrict the opposition and chase the runs required in this 40 over a side contest.

Atko and Fishy opened the bowling, the latter claiming the first wicket of the innings, a smart catch from Dan on the second grab. Atkin was replaced by Charlie who bowled, as usual, with great control and precision. He was unlucky not to claim a wicket in his 10 over spell. At the other Dave Fisher bowled out, his ten going for only 35 runs. This lead to Alex Townend entering the attack, who bowled aggressively without reward in his first spell. With ten overs to go, the oppo looked odds on to score 200+, but some smart field placings and fine bowling really put the squeeze on Nantwich, with only a solitary boundary conceded during this period. Impressive.

By this time, Dan Riley had joined the attack and he quietly accumulated wickets at regular intervals, including two in successive balls, both falling in a very similar manner, to gloveman 'Seamus' Killoran behind the stumps. Dan finished up with a second five wicket haul of the season as the batsmen looked to push the score on with little success. Wiggy also returned for a second blast with the ball, and was rewarded with two late wickets as Nantwich were restricted to 176-8. Arguably the teams best performance in the field this year.

In the interval, a quality tea was enjoyed; a tremendous selection of wings, koftas, and cakes. However, the suspected cheese and chive crisps weren't such a hit with the younger contingent.

Feeling optimistic of reaching the total, the in form Griffiths and 2ndXI debutant Nick James went in first. Early on, the tricky pitch limited scoring, as did the Nantwich openers. Griff in particular was struggling to trouble the scorers with just 3 runs from his first 31 deliveries, but a sublime on-drive seemed to 'break the shackles' as both, now well set, batsmen pushed the score on to 81 without loss at drinks. A positive start. Jamo brought up his half century first, with Griff following suit soon after before departing for a patiently compiled 53. A slight wobble occurred, with both Treen and Metcalf Jnr falling in quick succession. But the winning score was in sight and a cool headed James, ably assisted by Metcalf Snr, who were both keen on red inkers, safely guided the team home. Jamo finishing the game with a marvellous maximum to end 94*!

A fantastic first away win for the 2nds against a strong side, with everyone making a contribution, which stands us in good stead as we travel to league high flyers Timperley next weekend.

In other news, Alan the umpire went 'wicketless' for the first time since CBH records began. Rumour has it that the last time this happened he was umpiring Barnt Green v Walsall in the Birmingham league, 1988, although clarification is still required from the man himself!

Motm - Nick James - superb match winning batting display.

Dotd - Joe Killoran - despite 'Seamusesque' keeping, a forgotten helmet, and inners that had to be retrieved from the changing rooms after the start of play left no other option