5 Australians, 4 South Africans. 6(?) Rhodies. I was pretty confident that we were a chance to win.
Bumby liked the look of the three week old wicket, mostly because someone had thought that a good way to spend a Thursday evening was to light a bonfire under the covers. The burnt patch didn't really affect the game - not as much as Bumby's footmarks did anyway. Watto and Bumby removed an opener each. Numbers 3 and 4 looked like they were better batsmen, but struggled to score off Matt. Bokka struggled due to aforementioned craters but did pick up a couple of wickets. Mike claimed 3, and Stanton rewarded the captain's confidence by picking up a couple at the end. All out for 133.
Less than 3 and a half per over wasn't going to be enough. Quentin and Closey started well, although Closey couldn't help but play himself into trouble with back foot shots. He eventually went LBW. Watto and Quentin resumed their solid partnership, keeping us well ahead of the required rate. Apparently a mid-pitch discussion about staying in until drinks was their downfall, as both went in the same over. Rich and Bokka carried on, Rich continuing his devastating form. Someone said Bokka was struggling, commenting on the oppo bringing the field in when he was facing. He promptly smashed one for 4. His maths let him down when we were on 127. He hit a 4, then went for a 6 to win it. Rich did the honours with a 4, Mike watching from the other end for a solid not out, no balls faced.
Very decent turnout at the Turf, including the oppo. After they kicked us out, some of us went back to Manny Road for the free, lukewarm beers in the kitchen. I got home a bit after 4.
AO