Nick Wright previews this weekend's clash between York City Knights and Hull FC
Alex Reid looks at whether the once ever-present appearance of English clubs in the later stages of the Champions League is set to become a thing of the past
Craig Dobson looks at QPR's decision to sack Neil Warnock and replace him with Mark Hughes
James Tompkinson reviews an excellent pre-season victory for the York City Knights against Yorkshire rivals Leeds Rhinos
In a format that limits each bowler to four overs and forces each batsmen to retire on 25, teams need 6 all round performers to be successful. Unfortunately York lacked the consistency across all departments of their game in a lack lustre and rusty showing.
In the first game York gave far too many extras in the field, with their bowlers struggling to control the indoor ball. A total of 112 was not disgraceful however and is a par score in this 12 over format. In the chase the 1sts showed immaturity in their play, constantly trying to force the ball straight and hitting fielders rather than hitting walls and rotating strike. Skipper Vanner played well before retiring, and he and Martin gave some hope when he returned but fell eight short of their target.
In the second game Vanner chose to bat first and promoted Martin to the opening spot, whose batting was one of a few positives to come out of the day. Vanner departed early, but Martin guided the ball around with aplomb scoring an assured 45, well supported by fresher Kash Memon as they posted 113. In the field York were unfortunate, with the experienced head of Butterfield in his 25th year at York offering control, as risky 3s were left unpunished. A penultimate ball loss was disappointing given an improved performance.
With the first two games lost, York were playing for pride and Vanner and Martin continued their good form at the top of the order with scores of 39 and 38 respectively. Again Memon chipped in with runs as Townson failed, further imprinting his reputation as the Saj Mahmood of the cricket club. The 1sts posted 122, a strong score but their fatigue halted their advances. Normal opener Martin had as much rhythm as Rick Astely spraying the ball as his tiredness grew. Despite a good spell from Memon the opposition cruised home after needing just 6 off the last over.
Despite their disappointing performance the 1sts could take a lot from this outing. Keeper Remington was secure behind the stumps despite his Teflon gloves the night before in the nets. The debut of Kash Memon showed a player of potential in both batting and bowling departments and the ever present Butterfield made his bid for a return to 1XI action this summer. The consistent runs of Martin may proffer the lower middle order security that the 1XI have lost after last year graduations and skipper Vanner showed his usual batting talent. They may have been dumped out of the tournament, but York's cricket team have plenty to look forward to this summer.
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