Wet weather marks half way point
by David Bell, 28th June 2004

The league season's half way point was marked by an abundance of wet weather that meant very few matches reached a conclusion. Division One was one of the hardest hit with only two games seeing any play at all. Third placed Holmesfield made their way to 149-9 (David Ward 63) in a game reduced to 41 overs a side against Hundall. The defending champs were denied the chance to reply by the deluge that affected most games at tea time.

Similarly, Hathersage were restricted to 115-7 (Edman Bowers 4-37) by Parkhead, who were also unable to reply. Saturday sees the mouth watering clash of first versus second as leaders De La Salle entertain Old Edwardians / Collegiate. Third placed Holmesfield play host to Hathersage and fourth placed Stanton make the journey to Sheffield University Staff.

Runaway Division Two leaders Calver beat the weather to chalk up yet another success. They bowled bottom side Hathersage II out for just 53 (Stuart Hallows 5-23) and raced to an eight wicket win before the weather could intervene. They are now sixty three points clear of second placed Millhouses. Millhouses claimed maximum bowling points against Grindleford, who were dismissed for 170 (Tom Outram 41, Mumtaz 4-63) but were denied the chance to reply. Chesterfield Barbarians made a reasonable 177-9 (Kevin Marriott 59, Chris Kelly 5-34) against Stocksbridge I, who claimed a three wicket win thanks to David Codd (40). No play took place in the remaining games.

Division Three leaders BT Pensions / AGD march on at the top of the table, this time defeating Hundall II. Hundall were restricted to 93-8 despite 40 not out from John Allender. Pensions reached their target with five men in hand. The only other game to see play in the division was at Dronfield Woodhouse. Richland Wanderers were guided to 148-6 by skipper Andy Tann (84) but the tea time downpour ended the game. Pensions make the trip to Dronfield Woodhouse on Saturday.

The only game completed in Division Four was a low scoring affair at Walton Dam. Home club Chesterfield Barbarians II were tied down to 94-9 by Phil Adamson (8-31). His BT Pensions / AGD II side could only manage 52-7 in reply as the game ended in a draw. Ridgeway were bowled out for a competitive 179 (G.Woodhead 76, N.Byers 50, F.Raja 5-55) by Dronfield Sports when the rain came and brought the game to an early conclusion. All the other matches were abandoned without a ball being bowled. The most intriguing fixture on Saturday sees current leaders Millhouses II entertain third placed Chesterfield Barbarians II.