Grimsby and Louth progress to last four of the KO Cup
THERE were two matches in the Grimsby Town Cricket Club Knockout with Grimsby CC and Louth CC progressing to the semifinals.
On Monday, Grimsby Town defeated Clee Town Laportes by 40 runs, but the real excitement came on Thursday when Louth beat Lincs Cavaliers in the first ever “Super Over” seen in the Knockout.
The hosts, Grimsby posted 165 for 9 against Laportes, with several batsmen scoring 20 or more.
The visitors’ left arm opening bowler Tom Morris claimed 4 for 32.
The Laportes reply started well, with Jordan Cook (39) and Niall Dunn (28) putting on 57 for the second wicket but once Grimsby introduced their spinners, the game swung their way.
Harrison Tice 3 for 23 and Jack Smith 2 for 33 turned the match, with Laportes finishing on 125 for 7.
The re-arranged game on Thursday between Louth and Lincs Cavaliers drew a smaller crowd but those who came saw a real thriller.
Batting first, Lincs Cavaliers totalled 161 and were all out with one ball left.
Left hander Will Wright top scored with 42 from 39 balls and was well supported by Jake Pollard (28) and Australian Gus Robbins who hit 38 from only 16 balls.
Robbins really entered into the spirit of the Knockout by striking four huge sixes off consecutive balls from Jason Collinson, before the Louth bowler had his revenge.
Louth’s overseas player Remembrance Nyathi took 4 for 38 with Steve Kirkham bowling the most economical spell of the evening as he claimed 3 for 18 from his four overs.
In reply, Louth matched the Cavaliers’ score as they finished 161 for 4 from their 16 overs.
Andrew White with 44 from 33 balls gave the innings a positive start but it was the partnership between Richard Bell 48 not out and Jason Collinson 44 from 37 balls which was crucial. These two put on 88 runs in nine overs to bring their team level.
Having lost less wickets than the Cavaliers, Louth presumed they had won but the umpires referred to the competition rules and a “Super Over” took place.
Louth batted first and scored 14, Andrew White hitting a six and two fours before “Man of the Match” Will Wright took a hat-trick.
In reply, Lincs Cavaliers were restricted to 11 runs from their eight balls by Nyathi and Louth were able to celebrate for a second time.
The final first round game will take place tonight with Brocklesby Park playing Harry’s Outcasts.
Play starts at 6.15pm and spectators are welcome at Town’s Augusta Street ground.