WSBA v FELLOWS

WSBA hosted Fellows at Akrotiri for a game that was to be full of drama. Fellows were put into bat and were very soon in deep trouble thanks to some superb fast out swing bowling from WSBAs Ritchie. Three wickets fell for 16 runs and it seemed that there was no way back for the hapless Fellows as they watched their championship hopes evaporate in the relentless July heat.

WSBA Richie demolished Fellows top order

Kashif, however, was still at the crease and he is capable of turning a game, and now joined by Matti, the two consolidated at first, to see off the dangerous Ritchie, and then took on the change bowlers. WSBA turned to spin, which only made matters worse, as a now very confident Matti and Kashif pummelled the increasingly demoralised WSBA bowlers to all parts of the field.

Matti and Kashif dig Fellows out of a hole

It took a very good throw from square leg to get rid of Kashif, on 97, taking a risk too far in pursuit of his century. His and Mattis partnership had been worth 190 runs, and had turned a loosing into a winning game. Matti batted on to his century, finally bowled by spinner Andy Mulkhern. The middle order and tail batted out the remaining overs to bring Fellows up to a final score of 242 for 8 after.

Faced with an unassailable total, WSBA batted for points, looking to save wickets rather than pursue runs. It is a strategy that has worked well for them all season, and while it is not going to win them a championship it is very frustrating for their opposition. Despite all their efforts Fellows could not break them down, as WSBA hung on to the last over, with just one wicket still to fall, with 155 runs on the board.

Fellows 242-8 (points in dispute)

WSBA 155-9 (13 points)

AYNIC TAVERNERS v AMDOCS

On the otherside of the island Aynic Taverners were taking on Amdocs.

Amdocs season had started badly but now after a string of wins they sit second in the table and have a real belief that this might be their year.

Taverners batted first. Without any one batsman standing out, a team batting performance set Amdocs an imposing total. Tatton top scored with 38, with Maguire 25 and Kotze 24*, the rest chipped in to set a total after 40 overs of 204 for the loss of 8 wickets.

Sachin took 3 wickets for 26, Nithin 2-12 which begs the question which bowlers suffered the remaining 167-3. Palin contributed in the field taking three catches.

Amdocs have not chased down this large a total before and so were in uncharted territory. Sachin made an already good day better with a half century, matched by Redin not out 51.

half centurians Sachin and Redin

Amit (37) and the hard-hitting Ravi (36*) supported, bringing the innings to a close after only 30 overs, with Amdocs 205 for the loss of only 4 wickets. Kotze with 3-47 had the best figures from the Taverners bowlers.

Aynic 204-8 (11 points)

Amdocs 205-4 (20 points)

TAJ PAVILON v RAJ PUNJAB

The student team Raj Punjab have gone their way with the end of the academic year and so their opposition for the day, Taj Pavilion, found themselves gifted 20 points as Raj failed to field a side.

Taj (20 points)

Raj Pujab (0 points)

TAJ PAVILION v MOUFFLONS

(Muhammad writes)

Taj Pavilion edge out Moufflons by 3 wickets in a low scoring thriller at Happy Valley 2.

After winning the toss Taj put Moufflons in, who found themselves in all sorts of trouble at 12 runs for 3 wickets inside the first 6 overs. Muhammad and Rubel launched a mini recovery when Shahbaz got rid of a well set Muhammad with a ball that kept low and found the batsman plumb in front.

After Muhammadπs dismissal, Rubel and Peter Bond launched another recovery and took Moufflons to 99 when Kapila accounted for Bond. Rubel soon followed Bond after a watchful innings of 27 runs that lasted for 20 overs.

Moufflons tail took the score to a competitive but far from safe score of 133, courtesy of some lusty hitting from Yasir Nazir at the end of the innings.

All Taj bowlers used chipped in with a wicket or two, with Manoj the stand out performer with figures of 2 wickets for 19 runs in 8 overs.

An over confident Taj side was in for a rude awakening as Yasir Nazir and Rubel combined well to reduce them to 53 runs for 5 wickets inside the first 12 overs including the prize wicket of star batsman Kapila.

However, Taj captain Manju rode his luck and took the game away from Moufflons with a fierce knock of 64 runs. Manju took full advantage of dropped catch and close LBW shouts before Muhammad got rid of him with score at 109 runs.

However, by this time the damaged had been done and though Moufflons got another wicket but Dilshan and Vishnu made sure of Tajπs win with a 20 runs partnership.

For Moufflons Yasir Nazir (3/20) again shone with the ball and got good support from Muhammad (2/26) and Rubel (8 overs 27/1).

In the end it was a somewhat fortuitous 3 wickets win for Taj who were made to sweat till the last ball by Moufflons.

Good consistent umpiring was seen throughout the game as the umpires were put under intense pressure from fielders & bowlers from both sides. However, all judgments made were spot on and umpires came out unscathed from the game.

Mouflons 133 ao (6 points)

Taj Pavilion 134-7 (20 points)

WSBA v BANGLADESH PAPHOS

In another bowlers dominated match played at Akrotiri, Bangladesh Paphos CC after winning the toss decided to bat first. After their dismal batting performance last time out, Bangladesh Paphos CC started cautiously. This resulted in a slow run rate and when eventually the batsmen needed to turn up the pace, wickets tumbled, with the team bowled out for 163 runs in 38 overs.

This was not a total that should have posed a serious threat to WSBA batsmen, with two centurians amoung their ranks. However, some tight bowling from Bangladesh Paphos side brought quick WSBA wickets. Rather than persue the total, the lower order opted for the safer option of playing out the overs for batting points ceding the game to Bangladesh Paphos CC. WSBA eventually finished on 107 runs for 8 wickets in their allotted 40 overs, allowing Bangladesh Paphos CC to register a 56 runs win.

Bangladesh Pahos 163 ao (20 points)

WSBA 107-8 in 40 overs (12 points)

WSBA v FLAMES

Previous form put WSBA as favorites for this game but after a string of totally unexpected results this season, previous form has not proved a reliable predictor.

Once or twice in a season a game comes along that the players will recall with delight long after their cricketing days are done, a game that is fought right to the very last ball. This game developed into just such a contest.

Flames batted first and lost 3 quick wickets for only 27 runs. No 5 Lokesh set about a repair job with Viral, forging a partnership of 70 runs dragging the score up to 97. Viral (25) gave way to Vicky (17) who supported Lokesh in the second big partnership of the match taking the score on to 145, when Lokesh was eventually out for 68. Another 30 runs added by the tail gave Flames a total of 195-8 after their full quota of 40 overs.

This was a batsmans day, with a blustery wind taking the ball away from the outstretched hands of the fielders.WSBAπs opener Numann took full advantage, as he almost single handedly won the game for his side. Batting till the 38 h over he recorded the fifth century of the season with 101. The other WSBA bats supported him but only captain Marcus Holden took any of the load with a quickfire 25. Flames had all but accepted inevitable defeat when Numan lost his wicket. A nervous WSBA needed 11 from the last over but had only one wicket. Discretion being the better part of valour, they chose to bat out the over to gain their five bonus points, rather than risk all in an attempt to take the game. They finished five runs short on 190 -9.

Cyprus Flames 195- 8 (20 points)

WSBA 190-9 (14 points)

AYNIC TAVERNERS v MOUFFLONS

(Muhammad writes)

On a bright sunny day, Ay Nik Taverners hosted Moufflons CC at their ground at Ayios Nikoloas. Moufflons after winning the toss opened the batting with Tejas Sawant and Abdul Ghaffar. Moufflons got off to a flying start as the two openers posted a 40 runs opening partnership in 7 overs.

However, AyNik opening ball pair of Bailey & Stanley removed both openers in back to back overs to reduce Moufflons to 44 runs for 2 wickets after 9 overs.

In-form batsman Rubel was then joined by Alan Broadbent on the crease, and the two batsmen took Moufflons to drinks without any further loss (15 overs / 85 runs).

Ay Nik Taverners strike gold after the break as they accounted for 3 quick Moufflons wickets including the prize scalp of Rubel to leave Moufflons in a tangle at 112 runs for 5 wickets after 20 overs.

However, a very cautious and calm Alan Broadbent was still on the crease and along with Muhammad took the score to 148 runs without further loss at the second drinks interval (30 overs).

The two batsmen launched a final assault after the drinks interval and took the score to 196 runs, when Muhammad got out after playing a captainπs knock of 63 runs.

Alan Broadbent continued his pilgrimage towards half century and eventually succeeded in getting there on the penultimate ball of the innings with a square leg four.

At the end of 40 overs, Moufflons presented Ay Nik with a mammoth target of 224 runs. For Ay Nik, David Bailey and Steve Whitcomb got 2 wickets apiece.

(Muhammad 63, Alan 52 not out – David Bailey 2/35, Steve Whitcomb 2/39).

Ay Nik reply got off to a cracking start, as openers David Bailey and Steve Whitcomb showed no respect to new ball pair Rubel & Wajid and raced to 38 runs in 5 overs.

With two opening bowlers unable to control the swing and the run flow, they were replaced by Muhammad and Yasir as early as in the 6th over of the innings.

And the bowling change worked wonders for Moufflons, as the two bowlers triggered a dramatic Ay Nik collapse, sharing 6 wickets, to seal AY Nikπs fate by the time of first drinks break (15 overs) with the score at 82 runs.

Stanley with his aggressive approach looked dangerous; however, the writing was already on the wall. Alamgir and Alan with 2 wickets apiece ran through the lower order and at the end Moufflons registered a big 114 runs win over Ay Nik Taverners. (Stanley 32, David Bailey 26 – Yasir 3/18, Muhammad 3/32).

Moufflons 224/8 in 40 overs (20 points)

AyNik Taverners 110 All Out in 19.4 overs (6 points)

TAJ v BANGLADESH CC

After a promising start Bangladesh batters hit a wall as wickets fell like ninepins, most to lbw decisions, adding to Bangladeshπs frustration. They found themselves all out for only 70.

This was not a total that was likely to challenge Taj who overtook it with only 1 wicket after 11 overs.

TAj 71-1

Bangladesh 70 ao

Taj Pavilion 71-1 (20 points)

Bangladesh Paphos 70 ao (1 point)

AMDOCS V KINGS PUNJAB

Kings failed to turn up for the fixture and so conceded the game to Amdocs.

Amdocs (20 points)

Kinks Punjab (0 points)

AYNIC TAVERNERS v WSBA

Two reemerging teams WSBA and Aynic Taverners met at Aynic. WSBA batted first posting another daunting total 231 for 8 after their 40 overs thanks to contributions from Numen (54) Rafa (38) and Ryan (31)

Aynic bowlers David Bailey (3 for 53) and Stuart Danes (2 for 38) did their best to resrtrict the WSBA batting.

In reply Ay NIk CC managed 102 ao, a disappointing total by their recent standards.

Mark Worsencroft made 20 and Dan Barrett 14.

WSBA captain Marc Holden was amoung the wickets for the second successive week with 3 for 33 supported by Andy Mulkhern with 2 for 17.

WSBA 232-8 (20 points)

Aynic Taverners 102 ao (6 points)

AMDOCS v BANGLADESH CC

(Sunil writes)

Backed up by an emphatic win over Fellows last week, Amdocs hosted Bangladesh CC in Happy Valley 1.

Bangladesh won the toss and chose to bat first.

The openers Misu and skipper Babu started steadily before Babu retired with an injured wrist.

Centurion Sumon replaced Babu in the center and all was going well for Bangladesh CC when Sumon holed out to gully off Vinayπs bowling for a meager 9.

Amdocs skipper Sunil brought himself on in the 9th over of the game and soon wickets started to fall.

Suhag came in at the fall of Sumon and was soon out caught at mid-wicket off Sunil

At the first break, the score was a healthy 52 for 2 in 15 overs.

Misu was the next to go after making a good 39.

Sachin Mohan was introduced in the attack from the other end and both Sachin and Sunil destroyed the deep batting line-up with tight bowling and frequent wickets.

Babu returned at the fall of the 6th wicket but was soon out lbw to Sachin.

A late order flurry of a quick-fire 19 runs by Tomal took Bangladesh to a decent but not enough 129 all out in 26 overs.

Sachin took his first five wicket haul giving away only 17 runs in his 4 overs.

Sunil took four wickets for 28 in his 7 overs.

(Misu – 39; Sachin 4-17-5; Sunil 7-28-4)

Chasing 130, Amdocs batsmen did not have the best start as they lost opener and in-form Vinay when the score was 6 in 3 overs.

Anil joined Amit Chamoli and started the repair work.

This pair ensured no further damage by adding 90 runs for the second wicket.

Both batsmen milked the gentle Bangladesh bowling.

In the 12th over, the game was interrupted as it took a while to find the lost ball.

Amit Chamoli made a brilliant 41 including some huge hits before getting out.

Anil was joined by Anvay and was supported well.

At the first drinks break, Amdocs were cruising at 65 for 1 in 15 overs.

Anil hit a few huge shots out of the park and was on a personal score of 44 when Amdocs required 2 runs to win the game.

A monstrous six wide of long-on saw Amdocs through and Anil remained unbeaten with a second consecutive 50 in the league.

Anil hits form

(Amit – 41; Anil 50 n.o)

Bangladesh CC – 129 all out in 26 overs (4 points)

Amdocs CC – 134 for 2 in 27.2 overs (20 points)

SRILANKAN CC v KINGS PUNJAB

Kings Punjab batted first and were quickly in trouble as the Srilankan bowlers set about their fragile batting line up. Ragan (31) put up some resistance in an otherwise disappointing performance from the Kings, sliding to 88 all out in 24 overs. Ushan and Asanka took 3 wickets apiece.

Srilankans wasted no time in their reply, the game finishing in half the normal time. WIth Sampath (37 no) and Danuka (26) making most of the runs, the Srilankans passed the Kings total in 12 overs. The only consolation for Kings Punjab was Pendaπs 4 wickets for 28 runs.

Srilankan CC 89-4 (20 points)

Kings Punjab 88 ao (3 points)

WSBA v SRILANKAN CC

Last year champions were the guests for the second league game played at Akrotiri. Batting first the Srilankan CC stuttered with the dismissal of Niroshan for 0, but then recovered as Danuka and Budhika eased into a comfortable partnership. Budhika (22) was caught off Ryans bowling, followed soon after, to the Srilankans dismay, by their run machine Dileepa adding only one run. It was now up to the rest of the batting to stand up which they did with credit, opener Dhanuka steering the innings with his 62 runs, helped along by brother Nalaga (28) and Asanka (13) to give Srilankans a very creditable 192 after 38 overs. This was a very good day for WSBA captain Marcus Holden, taking 5 for 24.

Srilankans must have been confident at half time. This score would more often than not be a winning total. But this year has been an extraordinary league with teams regularly topping 200 runs with extraordinary individual batting performances.

And this was another such a game. WSBA newcomer A Coe (101) dismantled the Srilankan attack as he carved out a century for him self and a win for his team. Supported by J.Riddel (26) and L.Griffiths (20 no) WSBA won the match by 6 wickets after 35.4 overs.

WSBA 197-4 (20 points)

Srilankan CC 192 ao (7 points)

MOUFFLONS v RAJ PUNJAB CC

(Muhammad writes)

Yasir Nazir (5/17) & Rubel (54 no) were instumental in Moufflons comfortable win Kings Punjab by 6 wickets at Happy Valley 2.

After winning the toss, Kings Punjab opted to bat first. Moufflons made a poor start with the ball as the first 4 overs conceded 22 runs. However, Moufflons bowlers were quick to establish a disciplined rhythm.

After Rubel removed the top order in an 8 over spell that leaked only 17 runs, Yasir Nazir ripped through the middle order in his 8 overs and returned with 5 for 17 to help Kings Punjab bowl out for 83 all out.

Kings Punjab Batting: Extras 24 Moufflons Bowling: Yasir 5/17, Rubel 3/17, Roshan 2/14.

Moufflons run chase started nervously and they lost 2 quick wickets inside the first 5 overs. However, Rubel & Roshan calmed down Moufflons nerves with their sensible approach before Kings Punjab struck twice in the 11th over to send back Roshan & Peter Bond in a double wicket maiden over.

All of a sudden Moufflons were 34/4 after 11 overs. However, Darryl & Rubel ensured bowlers good work doesnπt get wasted as they easily took Moufflons past the target. Rubel (54*) finishing the innings in style with 2 sixes and a four and in the process registered an unbeaten half century.

Moufflons Batting: Rubel 54 not out Kings Punjab Bowling: Usman 2/26

Kings Punjab 83 all out (3 points)

Moufflons 85/4 (20 points)

FELLOWS V AMDOCS

Still smarting from their defeat at the hands of Bangladesh last week, Fellows traveled to Happy Valley to play Amdocs, their bogey team. Amdocs seem to hit form exactly as the schedule brings them to play Fellows. Unfortunately for Fellows this game went to past form as Amdocs opened even further the rift exposed by Bangladesh CC.

Choosing to bat, Amdocs opener Amit was soon back with his colleagues on the boundary for just 1 run. Anil came in at no 3. Out of form up till now, low on confidence and runs, and a little jetlagged from his business trip to the Americas, Anil must have not been too hopeful that this was the day to change his luck. Unfortunately for Fellows it was. Building slowly he eventually found his stride, knocking the best of Fellows attack over the long on and long off boundary. When they tried to contain him with shorter pitched bowling he changed his route to the boundary to between point and third man.His partnership with Vinay (29)took Amdocs in to the eighties. He was finally bowled by Shahin, attempting another brutal off drive, for 58.

Introduction of spin from Tahir, and wicket to wicket bowlng from Shahin, put brakes on the Amdocs innings, that had been threatening to run away from Fellows, until no 7 Ravi came in. He applied the coup de grace to any lingering Fellows hopes as he scored 40 in no time at all taking Amdocs on to 208 for 8 after their 40 overs. Fellows were looking at an uncomfortable reprieve of their game last week.

It was not so much a replay of that innings as the edited highlights as Fellows crumbled in half the time. Only the lower order Shahin (24) and newcomer Khurram (22) put up any resistance, with Chris vigorously defending his wicket in support. Having half demolished Fellows with the bat,Ravi finished off the job with the ball taking 3 for 15 from his five overs. Fellows were all out for 101.

Amdocs 208-8 (20 points)

Fellows 101 ao (6 points)

AYNIC TAVERNERS v TAJ PAVILION

Taj continue on their winning course with a blistering win over the Taverners. Kapila and Vishnu started off their innings with a substantive partnership of over 80 runs with Vishnu (24) supporting a very confident Kapila after his 70 n.o. last week. When Vishnu was gone, Manju took his place, and the two friends set about the Taverners without mercy. In a partnership of over 150, Kapila went first on 106, followed by Manju a couple of overs later on the same score 106. The Taj innings completed its course to fourty overs and a huge total of 296-6.

In the teeth of such an onslaught David Baileys figures of 47-1 from his 8 overs were commendable, with Stuart Danes taking four wickets for 40.

Faced with an impossible total to chase, the Taverners con tented themselves with batting out the overs, making an otherwise match winning total of 199-9. Steve Whitcomb top scored with 74.

Manju took 2 wickets for 10 runs, Roshan 2 for 26.

Taj Pavillion 297-6 (20 points)

Aynic Taverners 199-9 (13 points)

Bangladesh Paphos CC shock win over title contenders Fellows CC heated up another sun-baked Cyprus Cricket weekend.

BANGLADESH PAPHOS v FELLOWS

Fellows came to this game confident that with three wins from three they were set fair to realise their ambition to make a real bid for the league title. Their opposition Bangladesh Paphos are new to the league and have had a chequered passage so far, loosing games that form said they should have won, and winning against sides against whom they were expected to loose. So Fellows not knowing quite what to expect from their mecurial opponents, brought a strong side hopeful to avoid any upset.

Taking the iniative in choosing to bat first, Bangladesh Paphos saw both openers out for only 19 after eight overs. For Fellows all was going to plan. Then a belligerent partnership with Suhag supporting Suman Rehman as the main run scorer brought Bangladesh 67 runs. Suhag (15) lbw to Kashif. was replaced by no 5 Johuru who took up the support role as Sumon continued to disregard the reputation of the Fellows bowlers.

Sumon finds the boundary

As one partner fell another took his place to help Sumon build the best innings of the season so far as he took Bangladesh to 190 before he was caught off Matti for 109. The Bangladesh tail played to the end, despite all Fellows efforts to dislodge them, taking the score on to 219 for 9.

centurian Sumon

Faced with a daunting total Fellows needed a good start, and they were given one by Gill and Haroon scoring 63 runs in 8 overs before Haroon (33) was run out by a direct hit. Gill continued to attack the Bangladesh bowlers even though wickets were falling too regularly at the other end. Bangladesh fielding has its frustration as catches were spilled, but their enthusiasm and support for each other were deflating the Fellows. A brief partnership between Gill and Kashif (16) offered hope but when Kashifs and Gills (40) wickets fell in succession, Fellows resistance crumbled. A determined attack at the end of the innings from Matti (20) brought Fellows the consolation of 175 and max batting points, but a severe blow to their ambitions as Bangladesh Paphos gave them a hiding.

victorious Bangladesh Paphos CC

Bangladesh batting Suman Rehman 108

Fellows batting Gill 40, Haroon 33.

Bangladesh bowling Tamal 3-25, Lincoln 3-46

Bangladesh 219-9 (20 points)

Fellows 176 ao (9 points)

(Muhammad writes)

Amdocs v Sri Lankans

On the other Happy Valley pitch, 2008 champions were playing against Amdocs, still buoyant from their hard earned win over Flames last week.

Put in to bat first, Sri Lankans CC posted a daunting 242 runs in the allotted 40 overs.  Thanks largely to a brutal knock of 72 runs from Dileepa. Nirsohan 33 & Nalaga 20 were also amongst the runs and provided good support to Dileepa. For Amdocs Ravi with his 4 wickets was the stand out performer with the ball.

Amdocs openers started confidently and looked untroubled for the first 10 overs. However, things changed dramatically and the entire team got bundled out in 26 overs for just 100 runs. Last weekπs half centurian Vinay with his knock of 30 resisted for a while in an otherwise lackluster performance from Amdocs batsmen. Ushanth desilva with 5 wickets causing most of the damage.

Niroshan finds the edge

Srilanka batting Dileepa 72, Niroshan 33, Nalaga 20

Amdocs bowling Ravi 4 wickets

Amdocs batting Vinay 30

Srilanka bowling De Silva 5 wickets

Sri Lankans CC 242 ao (20 points)

Amdocs 100 ao (7 points)

TAJ PAVILION v WSBA

In the match played at Akrotiri, Taj Pavilion CC, playing their first game, came out easy winners against military side WSBA. Taj after winning the toss decided to field first and bowled WSBA all out for only 103 runs. For WSBA John Riddell starred with the bat with a fighting half century.Spinners Kapila with 5 wickets & Vishnu with 3 wickets were the main destroyers.

Not content with taking 5 wickets as a bowler, as a batsman Kapilaπs stylish innings of 70 runs helped Taj Pavilion ease past the target for the loss of 2 wickets.

WSBA batting John Riddell 51

Taj bowling Kapila 5 wickets , Vishnu 3 wickets

Taj batting Kapila 70*

WSBA 103 ao (3 points)

Taj 104/ 2 (20 points)

MOUFFLONS v FLAMES

Moufflons travelled to Nicosia to play European University Cyprus (Flames) at the UN Cricket Grounds.

Flames after winning the toss decided to field first and take advantage of the windy conditions.  Moufflons openers Raju & Alan started confidently and posted a 30 runs partnership in 10 overs.

However, Flames came back strongly and took 3 quick wickets to reduce Moufflons to 43 runs for 3 wickets at the first drinks interval (15 overs).

Soon after drinks interval Moufflons received another setback when Ghaffar got cleaned up by the left arm spin of Devus while attempting to clear the ropes.

This brought together Rubel & Muhammad to the crease. Both batsmen with entirely different approaches started the innings re-construction and took the score to 143 for the loss of 4 wickets at the second drinks interval (30 overs).

Rubel looked in supreme form and punished anything short and took full advantage of the width provided to him. Muhammad on the other hand was content with providing support to the destructive Rubel.

After the drinks interval, Flames re-introduced the strike bowlers and instantly got rewarded with the wickets of both Rubel (78) & Muhammad (21). A fine 97 runs partnership coming to an end. Moufflons late order collapsed to some tight and accurate bowling as they folded in 37 overs for 161 runs.

For Flames Viral with 4 wickets and Amar with 3 wickets starred with the ball and received good support from Lokesh (2 wickets) and Devus (1 wicket).

Moufflons rely heavily on their strong bowling attack for a positive result and if Moufflons had to win this game the bowlers had to live up to the expectations.

Flames started the reply with hard hitting Mandy & Vicky and their reply got off to a flying start as the first two overs yielded nearly 30 runs and put Moufflons on the back foot. Although, an immediate bowling change in the shape of Wajid got the first break through that Moufflons so dearly needed, but Flames raced to 50 in the seventh over for the loss of 1 wicket.

Soon after reaching the 50 runs mark, Flames lost opener Vicky to Yasir. Another bowling change in the shape of Muhammad got Moufflons 2 more wickets before Rubel finished off his opening spell with the wicket of Usman.

Moufflons bowlers came back well after the initial onslaught to restrict Flames to 72 runs for the loss of 5 wickets at the first drinks interval (15 overs).

Quick wickets for Moufflons resulted in a changed approach from Flames batsmen as they went in to a cautious mode.  Subruπs sensible batting approach calmed down Flames nerves and along with the lower order batsmen kept the score board moving. However, at the other end Moufflons kept making inroads. Muhammad and Alan successfully applied breaks on the free scoring Flames batsmen and in the process got 4 more wickets by the second drinks interval with Flames on 130 runs for the loss of 9 wickets.

The match was evenly poised with only 32 runs needed in 10 overs and danger man Subru still on the crease. However, soon after the interval Alan Broadbent removed Subru with Flames only 16 runs short.

In the end Moufflons showed nerves of steel to outwit the college boys from Nicosia and register another memorable win.

Muhammad with his 5 wickets haul led from the front and enjoyed good support from Alan Broadbent (2 wickets). Pacers Rubel, Wajid, and Yasir got a wicket apiece.

Moufflons 161 ao (20 points)

Flames 145 ao (8 points)

This weekend saw some of the bigger boys reenter the league as their national team players became available after their three week training course with Terry Holt. They would hope to pull back Flames runaway lead at the top of the table. One title hopeful this year, WSBA, were unable to raise a team and so forfeited their game to Kings Punjab. They and Taj now have to play catch up hoping that the top teams slip up along the way.

MOUFFLONS v FELLLOWS 

(Muhammad writes)

On a warm sunny day, Moufflons hosted Fellows at Happy Valley 2 grounds. Fellows after winning the toss decided to bat first.

However, Fellows received a set back as early as in the second over of the innings when Roshan removed Darri, courtesy of an excellent slip catch from Rubel. That brought an in-from Haroon on the crease to accompany Gill.

Both batsmen looked authoritative and built a commanding and eventually a match winning 150 runs partnership. By the time Alan Broadbent got rid of Gill (62) it was a matter of too little too late for Moufflons, as other Fellows batsmen capitalized on the platform set by the two dynamos to stretch the score to 237 for the loss of 7 wickets in allotted 40 overs.

For Moufflons debutant Wajid impressed with bowling figures of 16/2 in 8 overs. Muhammad & Roshan chipped in with 2 wickets a piece.

Buoyed by the heroics of the batsmen, Fellows seamers quickly reduced Moufflons to 43/4 at the drinks interval. However, a spirited fight back through Rubelπs (52) and Ghaffarπs (32*) blazing bats brought some excitement to the game. Nevertheless, the writing was on the wall, as Moufflons posted a respectful 160 runs in reply to Fellows total.

fellows hopeful

Gill followed his batting heroics with 3 top order wickets. Timmy (3 wickets) and Mike (2 wickets) were the other notable contributors.

Fellows Batting: Haroon 67 – Gill 62

Moufflons bowling: Wajid / Roshan/ Muhammad 2 wickets – Alan 1 wicket

Moufflons Batting: Rubel 52 – Ghaffar 32

Fellows Bowling: Gill / Timmy 3 wickets -  Mike 2 wickets – Kashif 1 wicket

Fellows 237/7 won by 77 runs (20 points)

Moufflons 160 ao (7 points)

AMDOCS v FLAMES

(Sunil writes)

On a warm, sunny day, Amdocs hosted Cyprus college Flames in Happy Valley 1 on 31-May-2009.

Cyprus College Flames won the toss and elected to bat first.

Skipper Lokesh and Mandy used the field restrictions very well scoring boundaries freely and cruised to 45 in 7 overs.

Amdocs captain Sunil brought himself on in the 8th over to apply brakes on the scoring sending back the openers in the same over.

Lokesh was bowled for 10 and Mandy was caught at square leg for a well made 35.

Another bowling change from the other end also paid off as Sachin took the wicket of No. 3 batsman Usman.

At the first drinks break after 13 overs, Flames were well placed at 69 for 3.

A small partnership was building for the 4th wicket between Jaimeen and Nishid when spin was introduced.

Riyaz, with his left-arm orthodox, responded well by containing the scoring and also taking the wicket of Nishid.

At the second drinks break after 26 overs, Flames were 101 for 4 just managing 32 from the 13 overs.

The bowlers bowled in smaller spells to get relief from the scorching heat.

Riyaz was brought back on after the second drinks break and he responded again by taking two wickets and the Flames saw themselves at 125 for 6 at the end of 30 overs.

Sunil brought himself back on to wrap up the tail and took two wickets in the same over again and Flamesπ innings came to an end in 36 overs managing a decent 146 all out when Ravi yorked the last man out.

A mis-judgement in the covers and a dropped sharp return denied Sunil the fifth wicket.

A back-to-form Sunil with 4 wickets, Riyaz with 3 wickets, 22 wides and 10 dropped catches were the highlights of Amdocs Bowling.

Flames Batting: Lokesh-10; Mandy-35; Jaimeen-20; Nishid-19

Amdocs Bowling (O-M-R-W): Sunil-7-1-30-4; Riyaz-8-0-24-3; Sachin-4-0-11-1; Ravi-2-0-7-1

irripressible flames

Amdocs coming to this game with a very strong batting line-up were happy to be chasing a moderate total.

Flames captain Lokesh believed his bowlers could defend this score.

Cyprus national team batsman Anil found himself in front of the stumps in the 3rd ball of the innings and Anvay exposed his off-stump the very next ball not able to negotiate the swing bowling of Lokesh.

Amdocs were 3 runs for the loss of 2 wickets after the first over, all the three runs coming from wide deliveries.

Lokesh struck again in his third over sending back Punit, the scoreboard reading 16 for 3 in 5 overs.

The stage looked all set for a miserable outing for Amdocs with three top batsmen back in the hut.

Opener Vinay, who saw three wickets fall at the other end was joined by Sachin.

Both of them started the rescue act and at the first drinks break, Amdocs were 49 without any further damage.

With the bowling attack getting loose, Vinay and Sachin started to score freely and the next 13 overs saw some big boundaries and a six.

Flames skipper Lokesh tried as many as 8 bowlers including himself to get a breakthrough but was denied by the determined Vinay and Sachin.

Just before the second drinks break, Vinay crossed his 50 with a huge six at long-on.

At the end of 26 overs, Amdocs cruised to 125 for 3 and both the batsmen were scoring neck-to-neck with Vinay on 52 and Sachin on 47.

Sachin crossed his half century immediately after the drinks break.

It took merely two overs after the break for Amdocs to score the 22 runs needed for victory.

Vinay made a well-crafted and flawless 70 not out with 5 fours and 2 towering sixes.

Sachin supported Vinay very well making 58 not out with 6 fours.

An unbeaten mammoth partnership of 135 between Vinay and Sachin for the 4th wicket can easily be considered as one of the best partnerships of the season.

Amdocs made 151 for 3 in 28 overs as Vinay scored the winning runs with another big six at long-on.

Amdocs Batting: Vinay-70 not out; Sachin-58 not out.

Flames Bowling(O-M-R-W): Lokesh-8-0-48-3

Flames: 146 all out in 36 overs (4 points)

Amdocs: 151 for 3 in 28 overs (20 points)

WSBA v KINGS PUNJAB CC

WSBA forfeited the game to Kings Punjab.

Kings Punjab CC (20 points)

WSBA (0 points)

Two more surprising results over the weekend have made the league even more interesting.

AyNik vs Bangladesh Paphos CC

(Mark Worsencroft writes)

Another fine, if somewhat shock victory today for Ay Nik Taverners who are somewhat surprising the opposition at the moment. A change of captaincy has certainly brought a change in fortune for the Military side.

Mark Worsencroft won the toss for the Ay Nik side and elected to bat first against a Bangladesh side that had travelled from Paphos. It was to be an even longer trip back.....

Scores of 53 from Norm Howie, 55 from Steve Whitcomb and a magnificent 80 not out from Ross Stanley was the backbone of a magnificent 279-9 from 40 overs for Ay Nik Taverners. Only bowling figures of 3-25 from Bangladesh Captain Mohammad Babu offered any real resistance.

Bangladesh certainly had a target to chase and quickly found themselves up against it by losing quick wickets.

Bowling figures form David Bailey 2-25 and Dan Barrett 3-21 helped Ay Nik Tavereners to a comfortable 84 runs win. The last wicket fell in the final over to deny Bangladesh any bonus batting points.

Aynic Taverners 279-9 (20 points)

Bangladesh Paphos CC 195 ao (9 points)

EU Cyprus Flames v Kings Punjab

(Muhammad writes)

A close encounter was expected between the Nicosia college students. However, it was the newcomers Kings Punjab who came out as easy winners.

Batting first Kings Punjab posted a daunting 233 runs target for the EU Cyprus Flames. Thanks largely to a 9^th wicket partnership of 67 runs and a breathtaking knock of 65 from Mohammad Ameen in just 22 balls. Flames might take some compensation from Divash fine bowling spell taking 4 for 23.

In reply Flames tried their best to overcome the improbable total, however, some tight bowling resulted in Flames finishing on 173 all out and Kings Punjab registering an easy 60 runs victory. Mandl top scored with 58 runs. Kingπs Jaggi matched Flamesπ Divesh taking 5-21.

Kings Punjab 233 ao (20 points)

Flames 173 ao (9 points)

(Muhammad writes)

Two shock results in the league over the weekend have done no harm to the reputation of the Cyprus Cricket League.

FLAMES v BANGADESH PAPHOS CC

The Flames, who on previous form were the favourites batted first, and posted a challenging 166 runs ao target., half centurian Ousman and captain Lokesh (48) building a century partnership. Harris took four wickets for Bangladesh Pahos

Bangladesh Paphos were in deep trouble half way through their innings with 5 wickets down and only 70 runs on the board. However, a stunning late order fight back spearheaded by Topu with a score of 65 not out pulled the match back, The mercurial Bangladesh Paphos team won by 2 wickets with 3 overs to spare. Four wickets for 26 for Flames Lakey.

Flames 165-9 (13 points)

Bangladesh Paphos (20 points)

Bangladesh Paphos CC

AYNIC v KINGS PUNJAB

A bigger shock came at AyNik, where Kings Punjab stumbled against the current bottom placed AyNik. AyNik batted first and posted a daunting 240 -6 target for the Nicosia college students – Kings Punjab. Young David Bailey (43) scored his highest total to date, with Whitcomb (31), Whetton (32) and Maguire (30*) amoung the runs, but it was their main run getter Usherwood (63) who did most of the damage.

In reply Kings Punjab could only muster 108 runs, much to the delight of home team, who registered their first league win of the season. Stanley, Usherwood and Whitcomb took three wickets apiece.

Aynic Taverners 240-6 (20 points)

Kings Punjab 108 ao (5 points)

BANGLADESH PAPHOS v KINGS PUNJAB

Bangladesh took the field, confident after their victory over Moufflons last week, that the Kings could not pose a tougher threat. But as the Kings batsmen laid about their bowling, Bangladesh found themselves struggling to stay in the game. Opener Raghav showed no mercy as he pushed to his individual score of 92, aided by no 3 Romi (41) . The middle order Amit (31*) and Gagan (23) was equally uncharitable, as Kings trammeled the Bangladesh bowlers racing along to a total of 250 for the loss of only four wickets.

Faced with such a large total Bangladesh had no option other than to attack. But wickets fell as Raj bowlers hit their stride. Only Nilou and Tapu managed double figures, extras top scoring by quite a distance, in a total of 105 all out. Kings bowlers Jagjgi and Sukhi did most of the damage with 3 wickets apiece.

Kings Punjab 250-4 (20 points)

Bangladesh Paphos 105 ao (4 points)

AYNIC v FLAMES

The Taverners batted first and were soon struggling in the face of tight bowling form Flames. Craig Whetton (25) and David Bailey (23) put up a little resistance but bowling figures of 7.1-16- 6 for Kaki, and 8-26-4 for Lokesh were not those of a high scoring game. Aynic were al out for 86.

Flames passed the total in 12 overs for the loss of 3 wickets, openers Siddharth (38) and Mendi (22) setting them on their way..

Aynic Taverners 86 ao (2 points)

Flames 87-3 (20 points)

In the second week of the Cyprus cricket league the established teams begin to show their pedigree as they draw away from the rest, with convincing wins for Srilankan CC, Fellows but a surprise defeat of Moufflons from newcomers Bangladesh Pahos CC.

AYNIC TAVERNERS v SRILANKAN CC

This was both teams first game of the new season. Aynic have never beaten the Srilankans, which is no shame. No team managed to win against the 2008 league champions last year.This game went true to past form.

Aynik batted first. A feisty knock from Whitcomb (42) supported by McCarricjk (24) and captain Worsencroft (17) took the Taverners to 116 all out. Ushan

(4-17) and Asangra (4-37) responsible for extinguishing the Taverners hopes.

Against the Srilankans this was never going to be enough and openers Danuka and Niroshan walzed by the total in 17 overs, Danuka passing his half century to finish 69 not out, and Niroshan playing his customary applied innings to finish on 38 not out to take the Srilankans to a 10 wicket win.

Danuka 69 no

Srilankan CC 117 – 0 (20 points)

Aynic Taverners 116 ao (2 points)

FELLOWS v KINGS PUNJAB X1

This was Fellows second game at the UN ground in Nicosia, winning last week against Flames, and newcomers Raj Punjabs first, their inauguration into the league. And a fiery inauguration it was.

Batting first they were blasted out of their crease by Kashifs fierce fast bowling. Only captain Amit Singh managed any resistance, making 18 in the Kings total of 78 all out. Kashif finished with figures of 5 wickets for a very economical 20 runs from his 8 overs, supported well by Fellows in the field, who this week held on to all their catches.

Fellows openers Haroun (38) and Darri (27) passed the Raj total without loosing their wickets. A ten over win for Fellows

Fellows 80 – 0 (20 points)

Kings Punjab 78 ao (1 points)

MOUFFLONS V BANGLADESH CC

On an overcast day, Moufflons hosted Bangladesh Paphos CC at Happy Valley 2.

Bangladesh Paphos CC after winning the toss, elected to field first, and their bowlers exploited the overcast conditions to great effect to shoot out Moufflons for a paltry 107 in 35 overs. Captain Babu led the team from front and his varied deliveries accounted for 4 Moufflons wickets for a meager 11 runs in 8 overs.

Moufflons tried to fight their way back into the game,. At one stage Bangladesh Paphos CC was reeling at 60 for 6. However, the seventh wicket partnership saw Bangladesh Paphos CC through to a memorable win in their first outing.

All credit to a disciplined Bangladesh Paphos CC outfit, who matched their enviable off-field organization (new kits with names, new cricket gear, refreshments, video recorders, and a great number of supporters) gave a polished performance and not only made themselves proud but also justified their inclusion in the league with a thumping win.

Bangladesh Paphos CC 108-6 (20 points)

Moufflons 107 ao (5 points)

AMDOCS v WSBA

Amdocs start to the season has not been as positive as they would have wished, loosing last week to Mouflons. Unfortunately for them they brought that form forward to this weeks game.

Put in to bat, they started brightly with openers Binay and Amit scoring 40 from the first 11 overs. But then a succession of quick wickets left them floundering. Binay and Amit (39) fell within a couple of overs of each other, captain Anil holed out to covers, and Amdocs were looking for a lifeline. Two crucial run outs sealed their fate leaving them 102 all out after 33 overs.

WSBAs openers flew to 50 in seven overs, Khan continuing his form of recent weeks. A flurry of wickets, two in one over, forced a temporary hold on their progress, but not enough to prevent a 6 wicket win, overtaking Amdocs in the 24^th over.

WSBA 103-5 (20 points)

Amdocs 102 ao (4 points)

TAJ v FLAMES

Taj unfortunately were unable to field a team against Flames and so concede all 20 points to Flames.

Flames 20 points

Taj Pavilion 0 points

MOUFFLONS V AMDOCS

(Muhammad writes)

On the first day of 2009 Cyprus Cricket League, Amdocs hosted Moufflons at Happy Valley 1 grounds.

Moufflons after winning the toss, decided to bat first. The decision back fired as Moufflons lost their first wicket (Tejas) in the 4th over of the match.

Other top order batsmen (Raju, Roshan, and Alamgir) also failed to negotiate the swing and pace of Amdocs bowlers, and a sorry looking score board was reading 4 wickets for 45 runs at the drinks interval (15 overs).

Moufflons received a big jolt when the in-form Rubel (20) was sent packing by Amdocs soon after the drinks. Rukesh (6) didnπt last long, and Moufflons ship looked like sinking at 60 for 6 after 18 overs.

It was left to Muhammad & Peter to rescue the sinking ship. A gritty and determined partnership between the two old war horses countered every Amdocs attack with confidence and calmness, and took the score past 125 runs mark at second drinks interval (30 overs).

However, soon after drinks interval, Amdocs bowlers came back strongly, and took 3 quick wickets in 2 overs. First to go was Peter (11), followed by Alan, and then Darryl.

A crest-fallen Muhammad (on 46) could do nothing but advise the last man Mustafa, how to counter the hat-trick ball from Ashish. Much to Muhammad & Moufflonsπ delight Mustafa blocked the hat-trick ball (also the last ball of the over).

In the following over, Muhammad brought up his fifty in style with a long-off six. The last wicket partnership added valuable runs, before Muhammad (59) holed out oT long-on while trying to clear the ropes.

A super fight back from Muhammad & Peter ensured Moufflons post a respectable and defendable score of 146. Ashish with 4 wickets was pick of the Amdocs bowlers.

Amdocs is a good all-round side with batting their main strength. On the other hand Moufflons arsenal enjoys a strong bowling attack witnessed by Moufflons successfully defence of a similar score last year (2 runs win on the last ball of the game) against the same opposition, an interesting battle was expected.

Cyprus Internationals Anil Nair & Amit Chamoli came out to face the Moufflons new ball attack of Rubel & Roshan. For Moufflons it was the pay back time. As first Roshan removed Amit, and soon Rubel got rid of Anil to dent Amdocs hopes of a flying start.

Punit and Shaktiπs, cautious but composed approach against the new ball resulted in Moufflons first bowling change in the shape of Alan Broadbent.

Alan wrecked havoc with his outswingers and Amdocs were soon wobbling at 4 wickets down for 40 runs at the drinks interval. Alan accounting for Punit (5) and Ravi (0).

Soon after the drinks break Alan removed Saurabh and finished his spell with 3 wickets.

Cyprus International and Amdocs captain Sunil promoted himself up the order and tried to launch a recovery with the help of a well settled Shakti. However, Sunilπs brief cameo of 13 (including a long-on six) didnπt lasted long and soon Roshan got rid of him.

Amdocs reached the second drinks interval (30 overs) with the score at 102 and 6 wickets down. Amdocs needed another 45 runs with 4 wickets in hand and a well settled Shakti still on the crease.

However, soon after drinks, Moufflons got rid of Shakti (30). A well crafted innings brought to end by Alamgir.

Muhammad and Alamgir finished off the tail with wickets of Ashish, Dinesh, and Ankit to enable Moufflons register a stunning fight back win of 15 runs. Amdocs finished on 131 all out.

Shakti (30) starred with the bat for Amdocs, whereas Alan with 3 wickets, Alamgir, Roshan, and Muhammad with 2 wickets did most of the damage for Moufflons.

Moufflons 146 ao (20 points)

Amdocs 131 ao (8 points)

FELLOWS V FLAMES

This was a story of two batting partnerships, the first building a competitive score for Fellows, and the second threatening to hand the game back to Flames.

Fellows batted first, loosing opener Tarri (2) in the first over to a straight yorker from Flames captain Lokesh. Gill (17) and Haroon (8) battled on for a further eight overs before both fell in successive overs to first change bowler, Lucky. Sawar and Kashif now at the crease set about rebuilding the innings.

Their partnership of 120, Kashif on 57 and Sawar on 43 when they were eventually dismissed soon after the other after 30 overs, gave Fellows the cushion they needed to attack in the last ten overs. Tahir (18) and Brar (19) took on the bowling taking Fellows to 196 all out in the 39^th over. Captain Lokesh took three wickets and Lucky, a real find for Flames, 4 wickets.

Flames innings started hesitantly. Fellows seemed intent on undoing themselves dropping undemanding catches. Opener Satnam held the ship steady, while his parners fell at the other end, Jaizmin (7) from a stunning catch from Kashif at gully and Nishit (2) from a direct hi run out from Tarris throw from mid off, as Fellows began to shake off their off season cobwebs. Usman and Viral then began to build the same kind of partnership that had given Fellows such a boost, as Flames began to feel that this game was tilting back in their direction.

But Fellows bowling was tight and scoring difficult. After 25 overs the score was 75, and Viral, who had been the main scorer in the partnership took the in initiative and went into attack mode. It didnt seem to be his natural game and soon enough he was bowled by Brar for 34.Usman (15) batted on, but now it was just to defend their wickets as a winning total receded with every over. Kanwar (13) and Sonu (10) attacked and lost accelerating Flames eventual demise, all out for 150 in the 38^th over. Gills medium pace was the most effective on the plastic Flicx pitch giving him 4 for 23 from his 8 overs. Fellows victory was dampened somewhat as they learned they had been deducted 3 points for slow over rate. In taking too long in plotting a strategy to to deny Flames the five extra points gained by batting their full forty overs, Fellows had lost 3 points themselves. A lesson for all!

Fellows 196 ao (17 points) deducted 3 points for slow over rate

Flames 150 ao (9 points)