Upon arrival, the ground was water-logged on one side. Although everything looked like the match would have to be abandoned, some hard work from the Eagles CC to try and clear and drain the water - using some interesting techniques! - persuaded the umpire the game could go ahead. Due to the time taken, the match was reduced to 20 overs per side.
20-over cricket is known for the fact that anything can happen - then entered Tejinder Singh who batted excellently. Although riding his luck at times, he demonstrated some clean and powerful hitting and was ably supported by the Eagles skipper, Ismail. Singh went on to carry his bat and scored 92 off 49 balls with 9 sixes. Richard Neale managed to dismiss his opposite number and claimed one more wicket with Atif coming back at the end to claim a wicket, but Singh had ensured Eagles secured a very good total on a ground that had long, wet and - in parts - a boggy outfield. "Singh is King" were the chants as he walked off and were probably fairly accurate!
Unfortunately, the middle order collapsed and the Optimists were in trouble at 58-6 in the 12th over. Richard Neale then joined Vikram Vijh. Vikram particularly started hitting some powerful shots that sailed over the boundary for sixes, and the Optimists were starting to turn things around. With two overs left, the Optimists were on 120, and needing 25/over is always a tall order. Vikram went down fighting and scored a brilliant 64 off 40 balls before eventually being caught. Some excellent shots and spirit were given to the cause right up to the end.
It was always going to be tough as our style of cricket requires quick outfields rather than boggy ones. However, lots of positives to take away from the match and a long season ahead.