FORTY CLUB OF SPAIN DRAW WITH SUTTON CC

SUTTON CC 291 FOR 3 DREW WITH FORTY CLUB 158 FOR 6.

In a time allocated match the Forty Club of Spain lost the toss and were put into bat by the touring side. Braithwaite and Kellington opened the bowling for the home side and soon felt the quality of Sutton’s opening batsman John Lambe and John Fry who scored freely throughout their innings. A century partnership was reached quickly by the Popinjays (the nickname of Sutton CC) before the partnership was broken by Howden who had Fry caught for 48 in the covers by the Forty Club skipper Evans.

Curness came into the bowling attack for the home side and bowled economically in his spell of 2-54, which included the wicket of the other opener Fry for 90 runs. The depth and skill of the Sutton batting was evident and the spectators were treated to some great shots from Russell Coombe and John Liddiard, the former going on to make his maiden century for the Surrey side.

Surrey declared on 291 for 3,  a total that was always going to be a stretch for the Forties. Despite the early loss of Curness, the Forties plugged gamely away and fine batting by the middle order of Stansfield, Evans and Geddes ensured the locals grinded out a draw that founding member, the late George Smith would have been proud of.

The game was played in great spirit, and the Popinjays gained some valuable time at the crease getting used to the new Alfas wicket before their big encounter of the weekend, the defence of the Valencian Cup against the Sporting Alfas First Team. 

For further information on Sutton CC please check out their website at :

http://www.suttoncricketclub.com/index.html