Hawks II v Goresbrook II - Essex County Cricket League - Div 1

Goresbrook captain Keith Friend, won the toss and elected to bat at The Jubilee Sports Ground on Saturday afternoon. Friend’s decision was vindicated by an excellent display with the willow from a strong early order. 16 year old Luke Read struck five boundaries on his way to a superb 56 finding an ally in the shape of Andy Livett (38) as the pair posted an opening stand of 108. Coming in at first wicket down teenager Afzal Hussain took up the gauntlet finding the rope on five occasions on his way to a swashbuckling unbeaten 72. ‘Keeper Craig Irving added a quick-fire 18, as Siddiqui (3 for 50), Haqhyar (2 for 33) and Charles (2 for 59) toiled with the ball as ‘Brook accumulated 223 for 7 from their allotted 45 overs.

After tea, Goresbrook got off to the ideal start when paceman Shaun Ross (2 for 42) sent Haqhyar back to the hutch for a duck, quickly followed by Shovan for 4. Bobby Gaymer and Shane Barwick bagged early scalps to leave the hosts reeling at 45 for 4. Charles (48) and Siddiqui (41) drew on their experience in compiling 83 for the fifth wicket to give Hawks the foundation for a run chase, but the introduction of Afzal Hussain (3 for 23) and Billy Smith (2 for 28) thwarted their charge. Daryl Forward also claimed a victim as the Chingford outfit were dismissed for 173 handing ‘Brook victory by 50 runs.