Result - Win by 172 runs

Top Performers

Stainborough 244-2 dec. J. Pepper 108, A. Gilfillan 100

Royston 72-6, P. Campbell 2-19

Match Report

A game that had been totally dominated by Stainborough ended in controversy when the umpires brought a premature end to the game, applying a rule that had been removed for the last two seasons.

Stainborough took advantage of a good batting track and wayward bowling to post an impressive 244-2 declared off just 38 overs. Gilfillan and Pepper smashed the ball around the ground as the Royston bowlers failed to learn that a short pitched delivery always ended in a boundary.

Having made an opening stand of 186, Gilfillan was the first wicket to fall, having just celebrated his century. Jonathan Pepper continued the onslaught and was rewarded with his maiden century. With the score on 244-2 and light rain falling, a declaration was made.

On resumption the umpires announced that the game must be completed by 7.30pm. With 46 overs to be bowled in just over 2 hours the entire innings became a race against time. Royston showed no interest in scoring runs and were simply hoping that further rain would draw the game to a close. Despite trying every trick in the book, Stainborough managed to take 6 wickets before "Close of Play" was called. The highlight was Ged McInerny's caught & bowled, when he looked as surprised as anyone when he looked down and saw the ball back in his hand.

Leaving the field everybody assumed that Stainborough had taken 8pts from the game. It was therefore surprising that the Umpires announced an incomplete fixture and suggested that each team be awarded 2pts. After consultation with the League Committee it became apparent that the time limit is a rule that was replaced long ago and the game should have been allowed to continue to its natural conclusion. By this time the Royston players had left and an apparent injustice had taken place. Needless to say the matter has been taken up with the league and we await the outcome.

The Centurians celebrate with a glass of port.