THURROCK CC hosted an Essex CCC XI including international stars including Australian international fast bowler Shaun Tait and Netherlands international and IPL player Ryan ten Doeschate in honour of Essex opening bowler David Masters’ Benefit Year last Friday, and a large crowd were duly entertained by players on all sides.
The day began with free coaching for around 50 young children by David Masters and assisted by the Thurrock coaches, then continued with a 20 over match between Thurrock and an Essex XI captained by David Masters himself. The Essex XI included Ryan ten Doeschate, Shaun Tait, Tymal Mills, Reece Topley, Tim Phillips, Rehan Hassan, Nick Browne and Steve Silver (ex-Leics), plus Jordan Owen and 14 year old Alfie Feeney from the Thurrock club.
The Essex XI won the toss and decided to bat first with Masters and ten Doeschate opening the innings, both struck some massive blows before ten Doeschate fell to Ryan Madder for 24 off 17 balls, Masters continued the explosive hitting for a well-made 60 off 45 balls before being bowled by Rob Neal. Contributions down the order ensured that the Essex XI posted a competitive 143/9 with young Feeney unbeaten on 2 not out, with Neal being the pick of the bowlers with 3 wickets.
After a quick change around the Thurrock openers Mark O’Neill and Umar Ayub began steadily against the pace of Mills, Masters and Tait before O’Neill was caught and bowled by leg spinner Velani for 13. Ayub made a well-compiled 31 and all-rounder Danny Laird finished on 35 not out as the hosts finished 136/5 in a good-natured and friendly game enjoyed by all in what was a day that many will remember for years to come.
