'Brook now one match away from semi-final

On another hot, sultry day the toss was always going to be vital and Ilford duly won it and decided to bat first. Makeshift opening bowler Ben Irving’s first over of the day produced 2 wickets and 4 wides. His second over produced the vital wicket of skipper Haras as the batsman took on Bobby Gaymer’s arm as he went for a second run and was run-out with the score on just 12. A fight back then ensued with Nabeel and Salman putting on 61 for the 4th wicket, but after the drinks break 'Brook got right back on top with the spinners doing a fine job. Callum Shepherd (2 for 23 from 5 overs) and Billy Smith (1 for 21 from 8 overs) bowled well. Skipper Shane Barwick came on and took 3 for 8 from 3.5 overs to help bowl Ilford out for just 110 runs after 29.5 overs. A superb effort in the heat! There was also a fantastic diving catch by Ausman Ginai which deserved a special mention.

In reply, openers Bobby Gaymer and Jack Stead looked totally at ease as the task in hand was being made to look comfortable before Gaymer missed a straight ball from spinner Heider and was bowled for 14 with the score on 46. Barwick joined Stead and the runs continued to come along easily before Barwick was caught and bowled by Heider for 21 with the score on 73. Irving then joined Stead and they saw the game through with 22.5 over’s to spare, Stead ending unbeaten on 49, a superb knock from the ever improving opener. His spell had lasted 66 balls and included 9 fours. Irving ended 6 not out as .Brook powered to an emphatic 8 wicket victory leaving the Dagenham side one game away from the semi-finals of the competition, a remarkable effort from such a small squad. Brook’s vital last game is against Harlow on Sunday 28th July at the May and Bakers Sports Club.