Worksop struggle in the damp

WORKSOP picked up five points in near arctic conditions in Mansfield on Saturday, in a game reduced to 46 overs per side as a result of the damp surface.

Mansfield won the toss and elected to bat, getting off to a quick start.

Dave Hancocks (3 for 69) made the first breakthrough by bowling Gareth Curtis with the score at 66.

This dismissal brought to the wicket Mansfield’s professional Tom New, who joined his younger brother Joe New (20) who shortly after fell to the bowling of Conor Smith (1 for 77) with an excellent slip catch from Kieran Gray.

Tom New quickly settled in and marched onto an unbeaten 117 from only 84 balls, ably supported by some big hitting from Sudesh Fernando (42) James Fraser (47*) taking the total to a huge 323 for 5.

In reply, Worksop got off to a steady but solid reply, with Mark Smallwood (29) and Luke Ambrose (15) forming a first wicket partnership of 65, before Smallwood miscued and was caught on the leg side.

With the introduction of Jonathan Salmon Ambrose quickly followed, as did Gareth Purshouse.

Conor Smith was the only other contributor, adding 25 before being caught out at long-off.

Tim Smith Snr and Lee Morris batted out well for a losing draw and an extra batting bonus point, leaving Worksop on 139 for 8.