England secure honourable draw

10 July 2008

England’s opening Test with Australia ended up a predictable draw at Southport & Birkdale CC despite some late fireworks from the home attack on the final day.

The hosts began the day on 140 for four in pursuit of Australia’s first-innings total of 334, but in truth only one outcome was ever likely.

Kim Daley, whose 65 batting at number nine proved vital for the visitors, followed up his three wickets on day two with the scalps of James Dixon (nought) and Mark Woodman (19) to return figures of 5-73 as England were bustled out for 252 just after lunch.

England were grateful for Nigel Davenport’s stoic contribution of 63 from 99 balls before he became Tery Hall’s solitary victim, with Darrell Sykes’ 105-minute knock of 14 also frustrating the Australians.

After a breezy start from openers Nick Watkins and Grant Thomson, Stephen George ripped through the Australia top order in their second innings.

George disturbed Watkins’ furniture for 19 and snaffled Thomson caught and bowled for 28 before capturing the wicket of Luke Trudgett for one.

Three further wickets then fell for 11 runs when James Dixon snapped up Andrew Watkins for four and Paul Welch and Justin Bergan were both run out, the latter for a duck.

George had Michael Parremore caught by Mike O’Mahony for five to leave the visitors reeling on 69 for seven.

However, with time running out Tery Hall produced a stubborn knock of 47 not out to guide Australia to safety as they closed their second innings on 137 for eight from 50 overs.

The sides now head to Colywn Bay for the second Test, which begins on Sunday.

Scorecard - England Deaf v Australia Deaf, 1st Test, July 8-10 2008 (44 KB)