Orrell welcomed reigning Lancashire League champions Darwen CC to Winstanley Road for what has become an annual pre-season curtain raiser for both teams being played for the Naseem Mirza trophy.
Orrell won the toss and batted first. All of Orrell’s top 5 got some useful batting practice in the middle in early season conditions with debutant Luke Prescott impressing. A lower middle order collapse halted Orrell’s hard earned momentum and it was left to captain Sam Heeley accompanied by Dominic Hayes to take Orrell to a respectable 173-6 in their 40 overs.
With the Orrell effort not being helped by dropped catches at crucial times. Darwen won by 3 wickets with 17 balls to spare- with Orrell old boy Ammer Mirza impressing for the visitors. Heeley took 4 wickets when opting to bowl left arm spin rather than his usual pace bowling. There was also two wickets for Alfie Clarke and one for Prescott.
Both sides were missing key players but it was a very useful exercise for both before they start their league campaigns next weekend.
Despite the recent unsettled weather, the ground was looking an absolute picture. Big thanks must go to groundsman Mike Abbott as well as all who have helped at the ‘Get Set’ days to get the ground ready for the upcoming season.
Yesterday also saw the welcome return of the famous Orrell cricket teas- albeit as a one off. The teas were greatly enjoyed by both teams and thanks must go to Emma Parkinson and Fianne Hayes for their efforts to produce such wonderful teas.
Thank you also to everyone who came down to the ground to watch the game yesterday- it was great to see the ground so busy and we look forward to you coming back in future weeks.