Cheshire are champions

15 September 2008

Cheshire were crowned ECB National Disability County Champions after a thrilling two-wicket victory over Hampshire at Walmley on Sunday.

This is the tenth year that the championship, organised by the British Association for Cricketers with Disabilities, has been held and thankfully the weather allowed for a nail-biting climax to the season.

“We are absolutely delighted about the performances of the Cheshire disabled team and are extremely grateful of the amount of time, dedication and commitment of Keith Beggs," said Cheshire Cricket Board's Richard Newton.

"This success would not have been possible without his professionalism, passion and enthusiasm over the last several years. We are extremely proud of the way the players conduct themselves on and off the pitch under Keith's guidance.”

Hampshire batted first and made light work of the Cheshire attack. Gavin Randall in particular played superbly well with some crashing straight drives and pull shots that are becoming a trademark of his game.

Hampshire looked on target for a score of 200-plus but they lost their first wicket with the score on 90 and it triggered a collapse. When Randall was removed for 81 the innings lost its impetus and Hampshire where all out for 142.

Cheshire skipper Jimmy Williams receives the trophy from ECB National Disability Cricket Manager Ian Martin

In reply, Cheshire set about reaching their target in a slow but steady fashion. Openers Chris Edwards and Mark O’Brian rarely looked troubled until the latter was caught which sparked a trickle of wickets led by spinner Paul Massey and supported by Jamie Legg and Randall.

Hampshire's bowlers were backed up by some stunning fielding with three wickets due to outstanding catches that would have graced any form of cricket. Dan West and Randall both took high catches out in the deep whilst Randall completed a superb all-round performance with a sharp reaction catch to reduce Cheshire to 116 for eight.

At this point the momentum was firmly with Hampshire as they pushed towards victory. However, the game swung back towards Cheshire when, after two maidens, the batting side crashed 17 off one over which included four boundaries.

Downhearted, Hampshire's hopes were further dented when they dropped a catch meaning Cheshire needed six runs of the final over.

Youngster Hugo Hammond, a very bright prospect who had a great day in the field, was handed the responsibility of bowling at the death but he could not stop Cheshire reaching the winning post with two balls to spare.

Jimmy Williams, of Cheshire, and Hampshire's Randall were took the man of the match awards.