It was Chevron's turn to sit out this week, following the withdrawl of Dutchmill from the league. There were wins this week for MCC, Kings XI and the league leaders the Royal Challengers.
The match between the Gentlemen Players and Grammar 98 was unfortunately called off at the eleventh hour due to a mix-up over the pitch booking. The AECL has never been responsible for booking the Kings College pitch, this has always been carried out by the Aberdeen University team directly. It appears the pitch was only booked until the end of June (or the booking cancelled when A.U.C.C pulled out of the league). Although the University side offered the pitch to Grammar 98 for the rest of the season, it turns out the paperwork was not in order. There were 22 players and an unused artificial wicket, however the sports village 'management' would not allow play without a booking in advance. A player learnt the next day after a few enquiries that play was refused on 'safety grounds' and staff were following procedure not to allow the match to go ahead (possibly different standards at the Shed, with mortar attacks, Steve McQueens on bikes and a dodgy outfield!!). A frustrating night for all concerned.....a consolation of Holland v Forlan on the telly. All will be sorted for next week!!
MCC recorded their second win of the season, beating RGU Tomahawks at Countesswells. MCC won the toss and batted first and posted a big total of 181 for 6, with Shiraz (30 no) and Sadik (32 no) top scoring. In reply, the Tomahawks were always behind the run rate and made 77 for 6 before conceding the match to the opposition as the Countesswells curfew approached.
The match between the Kings XI and BP was reduced to a 15 over per innings match due to the overcast conditions and light drizzle. BP batted first and posted a healthy 111 for 4. David and Ed both scored 30no for BP. Pick of the bowlers for Kings XI were Venu who took 2 wickets and Rohan who bowled tightly for his 1 wicket. In reply Kings XI chased the target in 11.3 overs, scoring 115 for the loss of 3 wickets to record a 7 wicket victory. Balaji and Shiv both scored 31 not out each for Kings XI and other contributions were Azhar (15) and Venu (16no). Greg, Shiva and John took a wicket each for BP.
The Royal Challengers remain unbeaten at the top of the table following a crushing 9 wicket victory over Ellon on DP1. Ellon batted first and posted a total of 128 for 8 in 20 overs. Pick of the bowlers for the Challengers was Arambabu taking 3 wickets. In reply, the Challengers made 131 for 1 in the 16th over, with Arambabu, Siva and Veeru all unbeaten on 30 runs.
Note: The Kings XI v Ellon result from 22nd June is still outstanding and will be updated ASAP.
