Somerset Disabled CC’s S9 side travelled to Troon CC on Sunday to face Cornwall Disability XI in their second National Disabled Cricket League fixture, with challenging batting conditions proving decisive in a hard-fought contest.
After losing the toss and being asked to bat first, Somerset found scoring difficult on a wicket that offered assistance to the bowlers throughout the innings. Early wickets left Somerset under pressure, with Cornwall’s attack maintaining tight lines and making run-scoring difficult.
Despite contributions from Wilf Stirzaker (7), Toby Jones (7) and George Fox-Reid (6), Somerset were unable to build any substantial partnerships. The Cornwall bowlers shared the wickets around, with Archie Ball (2-6), Josh Raven (2-14) and Max Jacka (3-2) leading the way as Somerset were bowled out for 68 in 19.2 overs.
A significant positive for Somerset was the discipline shown in forcing Cornwall to work hard for victory. With the ball, Cameron Harris and Tom Haddell both claimed two wickets apiece, reducing Cornwall to 33-4 and giving Somerset hope of defending their modest total.
Haddell finished with figures of 2-18 from six overs, while Harris produced an excellent spell of 2-12 from six overs. However, Cornwall’s Josh Raven and Mark Stevens remained calm under pressure, guiding the home side to 71-4 and securing victory by six wickets.
While the result did not go Somerset’s way, there were encouraging signs with the ball, and the team will look to build on those positives as the season progresses.
Somerset Disabled CC would like to thank Cornwall Disability XI for their hospitality and wish them well for the remainder of the season.
