The new season got underway with Braintree 3rd XI taking on Boxted in a game that will live long in the memory. Captain Calum MacLeod began proceedings in generous fashion by allowing Boxted to win the toss and Braintree were duly inserted to bat.
What followed was a masterclass.
After the skipper told them he wanted a 150 opening stand, Matt Kent and Keith Merrell decided to put on 179 for the first wicket. Although Kent enjoyed some luck, (with catches being politely declined) he demonstrated some beautiful stroke play that showed why he should be amainstay of the 3rd’s for the entire season!!!
Merrell, not to be outdone, rolled back the years before offering one chance on 95, with this one gratefully taken. He departed for a well-made score, leaving the stage to Kent and the incoming MacLeod.
MacLeod, showing true leadership, “anchored” the innings with a painstaking 15* ensuring that the rest of the batting lineup stayed firmly seated and fully rested. Meanwhile, Kent carried on serenely to his second consecutive hundred at the Airfield, clearly having signed some sort of personal agreement with the ground.
Braintree closed on a commanding 236-1 from 40 overs, which, at the halfway point, felt like a strong total…and so it proved.
Boxted’s reply began in the worst possible fashion, as Leigh Garner delivered an absolute classic in the first over to dismiss skipper Garry Green, straight through the gate. From there, it was a steady procession of wickets, with Garner and Callum Lazarus probing away like detectives who already knew the ending. Lazarus showed good pace and chipped in with a couple, while Garner helped himself to another four-for, picking up right where he left off last season.
Then came the spin department.
Lyra MacLeod turned up with her leg spin and promptly turned Boxted’s batting lineup into a group of deeply confused individuals wondering how to play her. Every ball seemed to pose a question and as the panic set in MacLeod roundly bowled Daniel Green and was unlucky not to get any more.
At the other end, George Wedge bowled admirably but somehow emerged wicketless, with a probing line and length throughout.
Finally, with the game all but done, Will Sherry, clearly annoyed at being denied batting practice, took matters personally and hoovered up the last three wickets, ensuring maximum glory in minimum time.
Boxted were bundled out for 71, handing Braintree a 165-run victory and a dream start to the season.
A dominant performance, a ruthless bowling display, and a batting lineup that only needed two people and a very patient captain. Season two is off to a flyer.