For Thame’s 2nd XI, much has changed in 12 months – barely scraping a draw at Bledlow Ridge on Day 1 of last season, this time they moved to a convincing win with fully 22 overs to spare. After early wickets from Ian McStay (a miserly spell of 10-6-7-1) and Chris Jeffcock (swinging that new ball for 7-2-20-2, pictured right), Dan Patey came on and took 3 key wickets, one of which combined with brother George, who caught acrobatically on the boundary, while attempting concussion in the process. Despite the occasional warm-and-cuddly ball, befitting his new-found fatherhood, Winkle the workhorse took three more wickets in a 16.4 over spell (including a sharp, low catch from keeper Dr Ben) with Dan Patey snapping up a run out. After 47.4 overs, Bledlow Ridge 1sts were dismissed for 117.
In reply, Andy Jinman rode his luck for 43 and put on 70 for the 2nd wicket with Jeffers (35) and thereby took the score up to 88 for 1, killing off any realistic chance for the Ridge. Jeffers was just a little annoyed when he lined up to hoist the spinner into the neighbouring stables but missed. However, Guy “The Finisher” Holmes (13*, anxious to get home for childcare duties) and Dan Patey (11*) then finished off the chase in a hurry, in the 30th over. The 2nds now entertain Didcot 2nds this Saturday at Church Meadow.
