The Halifax Cricket League First Division witnessed an eventful day of cricket as Warley, the second-placed team, faced off against Low Moor HT. The match was marked by a dramatic collapse, exceptional bowling performances, and inclement weather, leaving the outcome hanging in the balance.
Warley, visiting Low Moor HT, found themselves in trouble right from the start, losing five wickets for just 41 runs. The in-form Mark Stokes played a pivotal role in this early setback, taking four wickets for 25 runs. His excellent bowling display included the dismissal of Rooney Razzak for a golden duck. With wickets tumbling on a lively pitch, Warley struggled to find stability and eventually closed their innings on a meagre total of 86 runs.
Low Moor HT, however, failed to capitalise on their advantage as Trinity’s batting line-up crumbled under pressure once again. Stokes, who earlier shone with the ball, was the sole player to reach double figures, contributing 24 runs. Milton Greenwood skillfully exploited the challenging pitch conditions, claiming an impressive five-wicket haul by conceding only 19 runs. Trinity’s innings quickly unravelled, and they were bowled out for just 67 runs. Andrew Pinfield and Stuart Fenton added to the misery for Razzak, both completing golden ducks, making it a three-timer for the match.
In contrast to Warley’s struggles, the league leaders Great Horton PC had a promising start to their match. Led by opener and skipper Adam Beesley, who remained unbeaten on 77 runs, Great Horton PC fought hard against the challenging windy conditions. After 35 overs, they finished their innings on 147 runs with three wickets down. Unfortunately for them, their day ended there, as Warley’s victory pushed them into the top spot of the division.
Greetland also had a positive start in their encounter with Southowram. Sent in to bat by the Rams, Greetland’s Shakeel Mahmood earned accolades for his impressive run-a-ball fifty, scoring 66 runs. Their total reached 151 runs for the loss of four wickets before rain interrupted play, leaving the match unfinished.
Similarly, the match between Mount and Clayton was heavily affected by rain. Mount, opting to bat first, managed to score 86 runs for the loss of two wickets before the weather forced an abandonment. The notable highlight was Saif Arshed’s unbeaten knock of 51 runs before the washout occurred.
Despite the interruptions caused by rain, the Halifax Cricket League First Division matches provided plenty of excitement and notable performances. The battle for the top spot intensified, as Warley’s victory over Low Moor HT propelled them closer to league leaders Great Horton PC. With the league reaching a critical juncture, teams will be keen to capitalise on any opportunities that come their way in the coming matches.
