The 3rd X1 arrived at the warm, sunny and picturesque ground of Willingale CC for their final warm up match prior to the league starting with a 40 over game against Great Baddow. The captain won the toss and elected to bat. Openers Will Sherry and Nick Lockhart batted sensibly, showing the extra vigilance required on a wicket that was offering variable bounce. The pair put on 50 off the first 10 overs before Will was bowled for a well made 20. Jay Singh came in at number 3 and, after a watchful beginning, started to stroke the ball around the ground. Lockhart had made 29 before missing a straight one which brought Archie Payne to the crease.The pair picked off any loose deliveries and rotated the strike as the scoreboard ticked over nicely. Archie departed for a quick fire 23 as the remaining lower order all chipped in with valuable contributions to the total as well as supporting Jay in the process as he progressed to an excellent 49. He too then missed a straight one bang in front of all 3! So, Braintree closed their innings on a very good and challenging total of 208-7 off their allotted 40 overs.
The tea interval came and went as did the warm sun which was replaced by some threatening clouds along with a distinct chill in the air!
Lucas Hale was given the new cherry and steamed in down the hill with both purpose and pace in collecting his 2 wickets for 21 runs. At the other end, Leigh Garner toiled away with his consistent line and length and deserved more than his final figures of 1 - 14. Great Baddow found the going really tough as all bowlers used the facilities to great effect. George Wedge produced a devastating spell claiming 4 wickets for just 4 runs with his well flighted left arm spin, ably supported by Calum Lazarus who bowled in good areas whilst claiming 3 - 4!
This bowling was very well backed up by some excellent fielding and credit must go to Karl Parker for taking a number of catches in the gully as Great Baddow were dismissed for 94 just before the heavens opened!
Overall then, a very good work out which bodes well for the season ahead.