June 17th 2001

Riverbank Ramblers

Epsom College

Ed Beckwith (The Chief)
Alex Paterson
Saul Shanagher
Neil Carpenter
Oli Moorby
James Baird
Luke Moorby
Thom Ruane
Rick Welsh
Nigel Toussaint

37 overs of desert warfare

The loyal warriors met for the first time this season. The chief has assembled a motley crew of tribesmen for this first great battle

Last year the Tuaregs had been wiped out by over 100 runs so it was a surprise that the oppo. hadn’t turned up with a collection of school children and court jesters. The Tauregs had James Baird. (see photo.)

We lost the toss and ended up in the field. The omens were not good, especially as the chief’s wife was fielding for us! However the Tuaregs bowled and fielded magnificently. Niel Carpenter was the pick of the bowlers and Saul Shanagher got the catch of the day.

It soon became apparent that this dedication and commitment was entirely due to the fear of being awarded the ‘mong moment’. This was very unusual as most Tuaregs regard being awarded the ‘mong moment’ as crowning achievement in their Tuareg careers and often appear to do their utmost to get it. Maybe the tide of inadequacy is turning?

Anyway, having been set a measly 138 the opening pair of Oil Moorby and James Baird set about eroding the total. At 8 for 1 our Ozzie batsmen Rick Welsh went in to bat. An excellent 3rd wicket partnership of 83 runs between him and Saul (who scored 12 of them!) cruised the Tuaregs towards apparent victory.

The Tuaregs had a little flutter towards the end but eventually won by two wickets. With Rick making 71 pommie bashing runs.

This victory was glorious and the magnificent roaring campfires could be seen from the White Horse.

Incredulous victory, much spirit and hearty / inane banter...