BATTING first in this HFEL Premier Division match, Wanstead posted a very respectable 253 for 1 declared after 54 overs, thanks to a magnificent 219-run 2nd wicket partnership between Tom Simmons (111) and Robin Das (119).In their run-chase, Belhus soon found themselves in trouble at 7 for 3 and a win was unlikely.
An 87-run 4th wicket partnership between Danny Joyce and Shane Barwick (33) improved the situation, and our other batsmen batted stoically. But it was Danny Joyce who batted almost until the close (60 overs) after an exhibition of dogged determination before being dismissed for 74 to earn Belhus a draw in a match which Wanstead probably felt they should have won.
With 5 matches of the season remaining, Wanstead are perched in 2nd place in the Premier Division, just behind Chelmsford, while Belhus sit in 7th place.
Saturday 7th August, Belhus CC 1sr XI host Premier league leaders, Chelmsford at North Stifford starting 11am.
