CLOSE TO DEFEAT

Press, Volume CIII, Issue 30593, 9 November 1964, Page 16

CLOSE TO DEFEAT

Park Just

Survives

The last two hours of the match between West-University and Lancaster Park at Ham provided entertaining cricket. While A. G. Duckmanton and fl. M. Gearry were batting the task of making 209 runs in 130 minutes seemed within range of Lancaster Park but at stumps the side was struggling desperately to avoid defeat. Duckmanton and Gearry scored 72 runs in 36 minutes. Gearry making 50. Including three sixes and five fours. Gearry hit the ball with perfect timing and great power and both A. C. Timpson and P. A. | Sharp suffered at his hands. He and Duckmanton ran well but when they were dismissed the game swung sharply back in West-University’s favour. Sharp and Timpson bowled with fine control and although unable to turn the ball sharply, their flight and accuracy demanded constant watchfulness. Lancaster Park's eighth wicket fell on the third ball of the last over.

A talented innings by B. F. Hastings, who is clearly coming into his best form, and some strong driving by G. A. Bartlett were the features of WestUniversity's second innings but the side was never allowed to score at a reasonable rate.

The accurate and skilful bowling of B. C. Irving and Duckmanton kept the batsmen on the defensive.

Duckmanton kept the ball well up and his tantalising flight invited the rash stroke. The Lancaster Park bowlers, however, did not receive the support accorded those of WestUniversity, the catching and grand fielding of which was of a high standard. Umpires: Messrs L. Johnston and L. C. Moore.