Senior Match Reports

Season 2010

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29th August 2010: Sunday League Div. 3 - Kilmarnock 196 for 8 beat Greenock 154 ao by 42 runs

On a bright and sunny day Kilmarnock travelled to Glenpark to face Greenock in a Sunday League clash. With the weather being so good, and the home side already enjoying a pint in the sunshine, both captains agreed on a thirty overs per side game, so all players could enjoy the unusually nice day.

Tom McFadzean finally won a toss and decided to bat on a very hard and flat wicket. However this decision looked to have backfired, as the home-side decimated the Killie top order, leaving them struggling on 15 for 4. With the prospect of facing an early trip home, lasts weeks heroes Mohammed Aleem and Chris Marshman were reunited at the crease. As Greenock looked to mix up their bowling attack, the pair cashed in on some very loose bowling, propelling the visitors to almost 100 at the half-way mark. Chris twice had the bowlers looking for a new ball as he smashed two huge sixes over the midwicket wall. A fine knock of 42 was ended when Chris was bowled through the gate by Mcintosh.

Aleem was joined at the crease by Duncan Hamilton (15) and the pair added a further 70 odd runs, with Aleem taking most of the strike. A mini collapse saw Aleem fall for an excellent 87 and Kilmarnock closed their account on 196 for 8, a total that looked very defendable.

After the break, Duncan Hamilton continued his exquisite form with the ball, as he picked up three wickets in his six overs, and should have had four. As he helped reduce the Greenock total to 20 for four, he had their overseas amateur dropped second ball behind the stumps. Had the catch been taken, the match would not have lasted as long as it did. Catching practice for Chippy on Wednesday night!!

A partnership of about 100 between two Kruger and Robertson looked like taking them towards their target, but the introduction of Aleem saw a couple of wickets fall. He first broke the partnership by removing Robertson, and then had the dangerous Hempsey caught at square leg. And what a catch it was! A diving Alex Gibson took a stunning catch, proving just how valuable a player he is within this team. Alex would have been bowling today, but awoke with a strange pain in his right arm. I will leave it up to your imaginations as to how he acquired this injury!

So, although a couple of wickets slowed Greenock down, Kruger was still finding scoring easy. McFadzean introduced himself at the death, looking to pitch the ball up and slow down the run rate. In his second over, he produced two top class yorkers in the space of three balls, both taking wickets, and the second one removing amateur Kruger for a well played 63.

With 36 runs being needed from the final two overs, it was left to Chris Marshman to clean up the tail by knocking over ten and eleven with consecutive deliveries. Greenock finished on 160 (odd) all out, giving Killie a 30 (odd) run victory.

This was a fantastic victory for Kilmarnock and it was nice to play a game with no controversy or bad feelings. Thanks to Greenock for a wonderful days cricket.

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21st August 2010: Western Union Div 2 - Whitehaugh 127 for 8 beat Kilmarnock 126 ao by 2 wickets

Kilmarnock welcomed Whitehaugh to Bellsland in the final fixture of the league season, with the home side looking to finish the league season on a high note. With breezy and overcast conditions overhead and a slow low pitch underfoot it was no surprise on losing the toss Kilmarnock were inserted by the visitors. Kilmarnock openers Alan Hill, and Johnstone struggled to make an impression early up with both the opening Whitehaugh bowlers Fergusson(3-39) and Allan(4-43) hitting good lines and lengths. Sure enough this good bowling was rewarded as Fergusson got Hill to edge behind and he fell to an excellent one handed take in the gully. His opening partner didn’t last too much longer falling two overs later, Fergusson again the bowler and this time the wicketkeeper taking a regulation effort.

New batsmen Aleem and McFadzean(24) looked to steady the innings after the early set back. However with atmospheric conditions aiding movement through the air and the ball not really coming on to the bat this was no easy task, and so it proved to be as Aleem was sent back to the pavilion lbw the wicket this time falling to Allan. At 30-3 Kilmarnock were in trouble as Ashraf joined his captain at the wicket. Ashraf was happy to play the supporting role as McFadzean looked to be the more positive and counterattack the bowling. He played some nice strokes as the odd loose delivery was served up by the bowlers to be put away. Together they took the score up to 44 before Ashraf edged Allan behind to the keeper.

Adams came and went quickly as he missed a leg stump full toss and was castled by Fergusson with only 3 runs added to the total, and soon after Horne was removed as well bowled by Allan. Meanwhile McFadzean had continued to score at a decent rate refusing to be tied down by the bowling. However, eventually he fell as well to Allan as drove one slightly on the up and was brilliantly caught at cover. With the total now sitting at 68-7 Kilmarnock were staring down the barrel of the gun when Jim Hill(24 not out) joined Nimbley at the crease, the immediate aim to bring some respectability to the total and bat as many overs as possible. They managed to see off the opening bowling and looked to score off the change bowlers. Nimbley was quite happy to play second fiddle to the more aggressive Hill who was playing one of his best innings of the season. He played some lovely strokes through the covers and slowly the score started to gain a bit more respectability.

Unfortunately, just as the partnership was really beginning to get going Nimbley padded up to a ball from Christensen(1-21) that spun more sharply from outside the off stump and he was given out lbw. Hamilton came and when reasonably quickly and the task of reaching a total that gave the bowlers something to bowl at was left to Hill and Pasha(13). Pasha in his usual aggressive style didn’t hold back and hit some lusty blows on the legside. Hill realising that there might not be too much more opportunity to score decided that he’d join in the fun and together they added 30 for the last wicket before Arbuckle(2-16) removed Pasha lbw.

With a score of 126 on the board Kilmarnock knew they didn’t have much of a total to bowl at, however they knew that if they could get a couple of early wickets then the visitors would be put under some pressure. The Kilmarnock openers Pasha(1-43) and Hamilton(6-46) looked to put the ball in the right areas and make full use of the helpful bowling conditions. They both started off well Pasha in particular extracting some extreme seam movement, whilst Hamilton got his away swinger going nicely, and as a result the Whitehaugh response started off slowly. The good start from Kilmarnock was rewarded when Hamilton got one to cut back from outside off stump himself which McLeod made an error in leaving and he had his middle peg flattened. As so often happens, one wicket brought another, as Hamilton picked up is second wicket in a slightly bizarre manner. A rank full toss which should have been despatched to the boundary was oddly left by Ogilive and proceeded to watch on as his off stump sent cartwheeling back.

Pasha not wanting to be outdone by his partner joined in the fun when Burgess was removed lbw for a duck, as Kilmarnock looked to really get in about the Whitehaugh line up, and the cat was set right among the pigeons when Whitehaugh lost their forth wicket as Hamilton picked up his third wicket again getting the ball to jagged back from the off stump pegging back middle. Sitting at 28-4 Whitehaugh were in real trouble and desperately needed somebody to steady the innings. Greenhorn(36) and Miller(34) looked to do this, as Pasha and Hamilton started to tire after their initial burst and were hit to the boundary as the odd bad ball was produced.

In an attempt to keep their early momentum McFadzean shuffled his bowlers and introduced some spin in the form of Ashraf and Jim Hill. Although sticking to their task well and plugging away the pitch wasn’t offering much for the spinners and the batsmen were able to move the ball about freely without being put under too much difficulty and sure enough the scoreboard started to tick over nicely. To change up again McFadzean brought himself on for a quick two over spurt and was successful in making the breakthrough with a leg stump yorker removing Greenhorn’s leg stump for a well played 36. However, by this point this score was at 96 and with only another 30 runs required for victory Whitehaugh looked to be cruising to victory. As a last throw of the dice Pasha and Hamilton were reintroduced in the attack, and the latter made an immediate impact clean bowling Miller for what had been a well played 34 for his forth wicket. Another 10 runs were added before Hamilton claimed his five for removing Fergusson lbw for a duck.

Pasha bowling well himself was at times unplayable but wasn’t having much luck missing edge of the bat or stumps by inches at regular intervals. Fortunately, Hamilton was more fortunate finding the edge of Allan to claim his sixth wicket, and with eight wickets down and still another ten runs required the game seemed to be in the balance. However, despite the best efforts of the Kilmarnock team O’Connell(5 not out) and Pollock(1 not out) managed to steer Whitehaugh over the line. It was a disappointing defeat in the last game of the season for Kilmarnock however it was an excellent fight back taking the game to the wire after posting a sub standard total.

Looking back at the season as a whole it has been a fairly successful one for Kilmarnock finishing third in was has been a competitive league this year and one they will hope to build on next season.

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22nd August 2010: Sunday League Div 3 - Prestiwck 231 for 2 beat Kilmarnock 182 for 6 by 49 runs

After last Sunday's match against the Cavaliers SNCL / WDCU Div 1 all stars (which maybe puts our performance in context) next up was Prestwick at the Henry Throw Oval.

Having lost the toss, Kilmarnock were asked to bowl first and unfortunately due to traffic issues, only took the field with 8 players. This was the case for the first 5 overs where Oliver and Alex bowled manfully with a skeletal set of fielders on a large outfield. Oliver took a wicket with the first ball of the innings however there was little else to chear with respect to taking wickets. Funnily enough, the Prestwick team seemed strangely overjoyed at this wicket, and over the course of the game you could see why.

Unfortunately Kilmarnock were on the back foot from the start, with a number of fours going to where fielders would have been, and even with a full compliment of fielders, both Lawler and Openshaw scored at rapid pace. Openshaw ended up 107 no, and although he rode his luck, and boy did he have some, it would be churlish not to say he batted well and dispatched any bad ball. Unfortunately numerous run out chances were missed, and if Jon was still standing in the outfield throwing the ball at the stumps at this minute in time, he wouldn't have hit them yet.

In the end, Prestwick scored 231 off their 35 overs. All of the bowlers bowled well in parts, however it was Chris, not burdened with having to open (good decision cap'n) who stood out and somehow ended wicketless.

A good start was required in the Kilmarnock innings and unfortuntaly Mohammed fell early, followed by Arif with the score on 30. There followed a brilliant stand of 113 in only 15 overs between Alem (82) and Chris (63 no). The partnership was so good even the mouthiest of Prestwick fielders (of which there were a few) temporarily fell silent. However, Alem was unfortunately given out after scoring a brilliant 82, and Grant and Salem soon followed which more or less ended the contest. Chris, although not always chanceless, scored a personal best 63 and played really well.

In the end then a 49 run defeat, however bearing in mind 6 juniors played and a makeshift 'keeper (Grant - who did very well) was employed, it was a creditable effort. Particular thanks go to Niall who played after an on the day call up, and Kyle, who despite playing rugby in the morning, displayed great enthusiasm in the field.

All in all a good game, and although played in a reasonable spirit, the frequency and histrionic nature of Prestwick's LBW appeals moved from being laughable to particularly tiresome, and one can only assume that their wicket keepers play on a 'pay per appeal' basis.

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19th August 2010: Glasgow Cup - Semi Final - Kirkstyle 112 for 5 beat Garscube 111 for 8 by 5 wickets.

On Thursday evening Kirkstyle travelled to Garscube Park to play GU Staff 2nd XI in the Glasgow Cup semi final, with a tie against Victoria awaiting the winner. Kirkstyle skipper Tom McFadzean lost yet another toss and was asked to field. As the visitors were still waiting on three players to show up, the opening bowlers were required to bowl tight lines. And this is just what they did, with Duncan Hamilton producing an excellent spell of swing bowling to restrict the home side’s batsmen. An early wicket from Chris Marshman was the only positive note for Kirkstyle in the first ten overs, as Garscube cruised to 70 for 1, with a couple of missed chances in the field looking very costly. Javaid Ashraf started the fight back for Kirkstyle, as he collected three wickets in his five overs, including that of the Garscube captain, who was stumped off a ‘wide’ as he advanced down the track. McFadzean bowled himself at the death and he bowled tightly in his four overs, only conceding one boundary and picking up two wickets of his own.

After a solid start with the bat, Garscube stuttered their way to 111 for 7 from their 18 overs, a target that was about twenty or thirty short of where they should have been. Energised by their comeback in the field, Kirkstyle started their reply in a very mundane fashion, only scoring twenty runs from the first five overs. As the openers fell, Arif (39) and Aleem (10) looked to get the visitors back on track. However, Aleem didn’t last too long, bringing Richard Laidlaw (14 not out) to the crease. Richard started to push the field as he took on a series of quick singles, backed up by some lusty blows from Arif at the other end. Laidlaw’s speed between the wickets was highlighted as he looked to run a three, and as he turned for the third run he was presented with Arif still running his second!! The obvious outcome from this situation was a run out, so with his team calling from the side for Laidlaw not to lap his partner, he settled for two instead!

With Kirkstyle requiring 14 from 14 deliveries, Richard finally succeeded in running out his partner, bringing McFadzean to the crease. With eleven being needed from the final two overs, McFadzean launched his second and fourth balls for six and four respectively. Scores level. A quick single from the next ball took Kirkstyle through to their target and booked them a place in the final.

This was a very good all round display from Kirkstyle, and they look forward to a final against Victoria. The date and location of the final will be published as soon as possible (we don’t know yet!!)

As a club, we would encourage all members, family and friends to turn out and support their team on the day of the final. These days don’t come around very often so we would appreciate some fans on the day!

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14th August 2010: Western Union Div 2 - Langloan 155 for 8 beat Kilmarnock 154 ao by 1 run.

In the penultimate league match of the season Kilmarnock hosted Langloan at Bellsland, with the home team looking for the victory that would guarantee a third place finish in the table. Kilmarnock, were in the unfortunate position of being without a recognised wicket keeper for proceedings, therefore both Jim Hill and David Nimbley had to take spells as a makeshift keeper. With clear skies and sunshine overhead Kilmarnock won the toss and asked Langloan to bat first on a wicket offering some assistance for the bowlers.

Kilmarnock’s opening bowlers Pasha (2-13) and Hamilton (1-44) looked to built some early pressure hoping to get a couple of wickets and put the visitors on the back foot. Both bowlers kept things tight early on without really causing the batsmen real difficulties. However, after 20 overs of the innings the score had only reached 43 runs, the majority of which were byes due to the wicket keeping issues, supplemented by cautious strokeplay from the Langloan openers Bryson(18) and McKay(30). In the end it was a change of bowling that did the trick with Javid Ashraf(2-27) being introduced into the attack and immediately removing McKay caught at square leg. Langloan proceeded to try and up the run rate as at their current rate they were well heading to be well short of a competitive total. With a more aggressive intent the run rate increased somewhat with the new batsman McAteer (39) in particular showing positive intent. However the partnership was broken by Ashraf again trapping Bryson in front for 18.

Entering the last 10 overs the Langloan batsmen started to tee off which gave the Kilmarnock bowlers the opportunity to pick up some wickets. The reintroduction of Pasha and Hamilton proved successful with the removal of three wickets including that of McAteer who had his middle stump uprooted by Hamilton for a very well played 39. Wickets fell at regular intervals although proving expensive to get. Jim Hill (2-17) was introduced at the end and used his experience to pick up a couple of the tailenders. At the end of 50 overs Langloan finished 156-8 which was most probably a slightly below par score on the wicket. Kilmarnock would have felt that they had given the visitors about 50 runs too many due to the number of extras conceded through not having a proper wicket keeper and poor close fielding which once again let them down.

After tea with conditions even better for batting with what little cloud cover there was now disappeared, Kilmarnock openers Alan Hill(32) and Johnstone hoped to get the team off to a strong start. For the first six overs things went to plan with the Langloan bowlers Aziz(2-25) and Sobri(0-22). However, Johnstone was then caught of the bowling of Aziz with the score on 18. Hill, and new batsman Aleem(16) looked comfortable at crease happily moving the bowling around and after 15 overs the score stood at 57-1 and Kilmarnock looked strong favourites to win the game.

It was the introduction left arm spinner Allison(4-35) changed the game. Putting the ball in a good area he caused the batsmen a few more problems than they had experienced previously. Eventually this brought its rewarded with him claiming a double strike removing Hill lbw, and then Aslmail two balls later. With Aleem removed in the next over by Bonner(2-31) Kilmarnock were wobbling a bit in their pursued of the total. The new batsmen Laidlaw(19) and Jim Hill(12) looked to steady the innings and this seemed to be achieved with both batsmen playing some nice shots and had the scoreboard edging ever closer to the required total. However, with the innings total sitting on 80 Hill played an unfortunately rash shot and was caught throwing the game back into the balance.

McFadzean(29) now joining Laidlaw at the wicket sought to lead his troops home with a composed captains innings and indeed he played very nicely along with Laidlaw the ball being moved around and the runs coming quite freely. The balance of the game had certainly again moved in Kilmarnock’s favour but then Laidlaw was unluckily caught behind by a smart catch which appeared to come off the underside of his bat on his followthrough. Ashraf(14) now joined McFadzean at the wicket and again looked to rebuild after the set back to the innings. As before both batsmen were playing sensibly and didn’t look to be in too much difficulty from the bowling. However with only 20 runs more required Allison hit back with another 2 wickets to throw the game right up in the air. Firstly, McFadzean was caught brilliantly at cover off a smashed drive and directly and soon after Ashraf was beaten by one that turned a bit more sharply and bowled. With innings at 139-8, the game could now go either way, and it was left to David Nimbley to try and guild the tail to the victory target. He didn’t receive much help from Hamilton whose miserable season with the bat continued as he was bowled by a reintroduced Aziz.

With seven overs remaining, 14 runs to get a 1 wicket remaining it was all down to Nimbley and Pasha to steer Kilmarnock to the win. The runs to win was reduced to 10 when Nimbley smashed a boundary through the covers for 4 to the delight of the Kilmarnock team only for the umpire to signal a dead ball so the runs didn’t count. A couple of scrambled singles got the runs required down to 8, when Pasha chanced his arm and came down the track to the off spinner. The ball was hoisted high into the air over square leg dropped over the boundary for a magnificent six, swinging the balance back into Kilmarnock’s favour. Two runs needed for victory, and a single for the tie Pasha again came down the wicket launching the ball to the same area as he did previously. However the contact wasn’t as good this time, however the fielder looked as if he had greatly overrun in and the ball was going to carry over him. Pedalling back he stuck up a hand and somehow held on to what was in the end a quite magnificent catch. Falling one run short was a real sickner for Kilmarnock, but they really should have been able to chase down that size of total on that type of wicket. They also would have been chasing a total much closer to 100 had it not been for some sloppy fielding. However, this is not to take any credit away from Langloan, they stuck at their task well defending not a huge total and in the end richly deserved their win.

Kilmarnock will go into their last league match of the season next Saturday at home to Whitehaugh looking to finish their season on high after this disappointing result.

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15th August 2010: Sunday League Div 3 - Clydesdale Cavaliers 106 for 3 beat Kilmarnock 105 ao by 7 wickets.

Yesterday saw the Sunday team go to Titwood for a game against the League leaders on another glorious day played in front of a large crowd.

Unfortunately those were the only positives that can be taken from the game!

Kilmarnock only managed to muster 105 runs and were all out after 30 overs. The only two batsmen who made meaningful contributions were Alem (27) and Grant (23) as Clydesdale's impressive bowling attack made life difficult.

Cavaliers reached their target in only 14 overs for the loss of only 3 wickets. The only bowling highlight was Chaz taking 2 wickets in his first over, however the Cavaliers never looked in any particular danger of not making the target. Again, an impressive performance by a very strong team with a number of players who have played First and Second Team cricket, who demonstrated why they are the league leaders,

As with yesterday, great ground, brilliant day, hospitable home team - unfortunately the performance didn't do justice to these.

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14th August 2010: Western Union Div 4 - NVT Shawholm 212 for 7 beat Kirkstyle 130 ao by 82 runs

Despite a spirited effort Kirkstyle lost by a fairly resounding margin in their penultimate game of the season.

Shawholm reached 212 in their 50 overs for the loss of 7 wickets. Top scorer was S Sajjad with a well made 69, although rather disappointingly he was dropped twice and possibly ought to have been stumped. However, he made the most of his luck and played really well. Fielding in the main was okay, however some slightly erratic bowling meant some runs came rather too cheaply

Pick of the bowlers was Saleem with 3 for 48 off 15 overs, while Imran (1 for 24 off 9) and Oliver (2 for 50 off 12) also deserve credit.

Kirkstyle's innings didn't get off to the best of starts as Mark went early on and only Oliver (17) stuck around for any length of time. The innings was rescued to an extent by a good partnership between Grant and Imran - Grant batting bravely to make 15 following a painful knock on the knee. Only Imran managed to get on top of the bowling and he made an excellent 52 to at least make sure some batting points were eanred.

All in all a slightly disappointing performance, tho' partly compensated by the match being played in glorious weather on a lovely ground with a few beers shared with the more than hospitable home team.

Sadly, this was Imran's last game before he jets off to work in Spain. A useful bowler, enthusiastic player and genuinely nice guy, he will be missed by all at the club and we wish him well.

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7th August: Western Union Div 2 - Kilmarnock 212 for 5, Cambusdoon 203 ao

Kilmarnock hosted Cambusdoon on Saturday in the Derek Mair Action Coach sponsored WDCU match, hoping to do the double over their county rivals and solidify their position of 3rd in the league. With the usual mixture of holidays – AGH and love in’s – Davey Horne, a much changed XI took the field. Jim was back from holiday, the Chipmeister was behind the stumps and Alex was his usual different planet self.

EAC had got the weather forecast wrong during the preceding week and didn’t think that copious amounts of rain coupled to humid temperatures would make much difference to the outfield. Unfortunately parts of it were deemed as no go areas to the youthful Cambusdoon outfit. Chippy in his guise of area coach in fact had to lay the law down as one of his protégé’s Elliot Speirs, was in severe danger of being lost a la Amelia Earhart – he did have the advantage however of having GPS on his mobile. Incidentally, this spell check malarkey is a wonderful invention and do you know that the first time you put Chipmeister down on paper it gives you as an alternative, the choice of Choirmaster? Possibly, a more adept description of our erstwhile Chipmeister in his attempts to orchestrate events from behind the stumps – more on, which later.

The midweek rain had left the wicket soft and it was no surprise both that Toots lost the toss and Killie were asked to bat first. What came as pleasant surprise to Killie was the way in which openers Bilal (37) and Javaid (20) took the attack to Cambusdoon putting on 50 odd for the first wicket. There was a moment of controversy, which was to be a lasting theme during the game. Javaid aim an expansive drive and the ball was taken by the wicket keeper who immediately claimed a catch, backed up vociferously by the slips. Chippy was umpiring and gave a not out decision as he reckoned Jav’s bat hit the ground and not the ball, something concurred by Jav himself. He was out soon afterwards and this brought Elrond to the wicket to join Bilal. This writer loves to watch him bat both for his dashing attacking attitude and also for the way in which the oppo take to his elvish mutterings whilst in full flight. Saturday was no exception and the look of perplection of the fielders faces was wonderful. As usual this season he was in imperious form and smashed 69 and as usual this season he was dropped from the simplest of chances – hey ho. When Bilal was out Rich came to the wicket. Undoubtedly fearing the opportunity of batting with Jim, he set about trying to smash the attack to all parts of the ground. Unfortunately this wasn’t to be his day and he perished quite quickly. This brought Toots to the crease. Recently qualified as a primary school teacher, he has been allocated to Bellfield Primary school for his probationary year. If ever there was a reason to put in a placing request, surely this would be it. Starting off his innings tentatively, he expanded his shoulders and smote a few lusty blows over the boundary in his 37, one of which missed Jim’s car by not very much. Both Elrond and Toots perished in the space of 2 balls and it was left to Nibs and Jim to scurry things through in the last couple of overs and place Killie on 212-5 after their 50 overs. A total that they could look to defend and one which I’m sure Cambusdoon were looking to be substantially lower when they won the toss.

The Cambusdoon innings however descended into the mire, not with the batting, but with the attitude of both sides to very questionable decisions. It didn’t start that way however and the Killie fielders were amused as when asking for a guard the umpire told the batsman to move his bat ‘ a ba hair to leg’ – very un Wellington like but very funny. Anyway back to the game. Cambusdoon made a solid start to their innings however matters deteriorated when the opening bat by the name of Boreland smashed the cover off the ball and was taken by the Chipmeister who has added the art of juggling to his repertoire. Boreland stood and was given not out. There is no doubt what so ever that he hit the ball – I know we get on at him however Chippy is probably the most honest person you could meet and would never cheat anyone out - he was bealing (Ayrshire for fcuking mad!!!) He was just out, no question m’lud. Cue a bit of chat, which under the circumstances was justified. A couple of over later Luke edged the ball to second slip and was caught by Toots. Unfortunately Luke copped a bit for the earlier behaviour of Boreland, something that shouldn’t have happened. Boreland biffed a few however he was bowled by Jim in his first over, which makes it all the more surprising that he earlier failed to recognise leather hitting wood and even he had to trudge off. This brought Colin McCrossin to the crease and in an instantly the game changed as he sought to win the game off Jims bowling. He didn’t bowl poorly however McCrossin just blasted him to all parts of the ground and mostly over the boundary. Wickets fell at semi regular intervals but still McCrossin battered on. Jav should have had him in his first over however Toots dropped a skier at long off. The reintroduction of Deadly however did the trick and Toots made amends by taking a catch at slip off a mistimed pull shot and he was gone for 70 odd. An excellent innings. Unfortunately things deteriorated a bit during this period as the Cambusdoon players screamed at Pash for not signalling 4. Matters were further exacerbated when Jim responded with a volley of his own on the merits of being caught and not walking. Nibs chipped in and bedlam threatened to ensure before Rich and McCrossin calmed things down. I don’t mind when things are said on the pitch however they shouldn’t spill out over the boundary. When McCrossin was out Killie regained a degree of control however Elliot Speirs (30) was batting very well indeed and with the support of the other batsmen edged Cambusdoon towards their total. Things were tight and threatened to take off again when Boreland took over the duties of umpire and gave a wide down the leg side when the ball ricocheted of the batsmans pads! Toots had a word and was told to – well you know where he was told to go and it wasn’t Bellfield Primary School. A ‘discussion’ between the two ensued what Toots informed him that the language used was a discredit to Ayr CC, which was met by the reply that Kilmarnock shouldn’t be playing in the division as we didn’t have covers or sight screens!! You couldn’t make it up!! Just a thought, if you are looking for an effective form of contraception, just take the personality classes Mr Boreland obviously attended. Anyway back to the game. Cambusdoon edging towards the total and batting well. Pash and Deadly bowled out, 10 runs for victory, 4 overs left, 8 wkts down, with Jav and Jim bowling. 2 wickets in successive deliveries from Jim saw Killie home. Deadly finishing with 3-50 odd, Pash 3-30 odd and Jim 3-30 odd.

A great game of cricket in any other circumstances however it was spoiled by the absence of neutral umpires and in truth, both sets of players can’t look back with any degree of satisfaction with regard to their behaviour. I’m all for playing hard and things can happen in the heat of a match however a great game was marred by silliness. Killie batted well and Cambusdoon responded excellently. Take out the silliness and it would have been a classic. Anyway, onwards and upwards next up Langloan.

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7th August: Western Union Div 4 - Kirkstyle 300 for 6, Ardencaple 96 ao

The twos won their first match since the 9th May with a resounding win over bottom club Ardencaple

The foundation for the win was based around a fabulous 160 not out by opening batsman Paul Ruddock who didn't offer any chances throughout his marathon innings until he'd passed 150. He was supported by significant contributions from Salman (35) and Arif (36), with Arif bludgeoning 4 huge sixes. Apart from the score the main positive was Kirkstyle batted for the full 50 overs for only the 3rd time this season.

A good bowling performace was required to back up the batting and the bowlers didn't disappoint. Imran in particular bowled really well and deservedly picked up 4 wickets, while Muj (2 wickets) also bowled really well, taking one wicket following a brilliant catch by Arif at mid-on. All of the bowlers took wickets in an impressive fielding display. Only Chambers with a well made 42 made a significant contribution with the bat.

Overall a very pleasing win and performace against, it must be said, a severely depleted Ardencaple side who stuck gamely to their task. However two stern tests remain in the two games left - Shawholm and Scotindians. It was however, an all too rare Saturday game played in an excellent spirit on one of the nicer grounds on the circuit.

Sadly this result more or less confirms Ardencaple's relegation; the hosts proving to be a friendly, hospitable bunch of guys, good company for a post match pint, and genuinely pleasant opposition.

As for Kirkstyle, the result should provide a boost for the games to come and gives the team a glimmer of hope in its relegation battle.

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31st July 2010: Western Union Div 2 - Match abandoned. Kilmarnock 244 for 4, Nunholm 27 for 0

Kilmarnock travelled to Dumfries this week to take on Nunholm in a WDCU Division 2 top of the table clash. With the teams placed closely at third and fourth in the league, both were eager for victory. Unfortunately the Scottish summer, which has ruined many cricket matches over the past month, struck again and the game could not be completed due to the conditions. The match started in typical fashion, as Kilmarnock captain Tom McFadzean once again lost the toss and was unsurprisingly asked to bat in bowler friendly conditions. Holidays meant that Killie were missing a few of their top order batsman, so Javaid Ashraf (10) volunteered to open the batting with Alan Hill (14). The pair put on 27 before they both fell in quick succession, leaving Richard Laidlaw (37) and Mohammed Aleem (50) to rebuild the innings. The pair batted very sensibly, punishing some loose bowling as they added 108 for the third wicket.

A burst of heavy rain had the ground staff (Nunholm fielders) running to get the covers on the pitch, and the break proved good for the home side as both Laidlaw and Aleem fell in the space of a few overs after play resumed. This brought McFadzean and David Horne to the crease, as they aimed to push the run rate up and take the score towards the 200 mark. The pair put on an unbeaten 97 together as they pushed the ball about and punished the bad ball. Horne finished on 43 not out, an innings which included a six that nearly ended up in the tennis courts. McFadzean brought up his half century in the final over of the innings, finishing 50 not out and helping the visitors to post an impressive 244 for 4.

Heavy rain at the tea break meant that the Nunholm innings was delayed. After the rain had passed, Killie were looking for quick wickets and used the conditions well. Zubair Pasha and Chris Marshman moved the ball around very well, and consistently beat the bat or found the edge. Unfortunately the breakthrough didn’t come and as rain closed in again, the outfield and wicket were starting to become a bit dangerous to play on. Nunholm finished on 27 for no loss, and the match was abandoned. The weather unfortunately ruined another day’s cricket, but it was an enjoyable afternoon at a lovely ground against a very pleasant team. Next week the First XI play host to local rivals Cambusdoon. Having beaten them in a close encounter earlier in the season, Killie look to pull off the double, weather permitting!!

Meanwhile, the 2nd XI did manage to complete their match against local rivals Prestwick 2nds at Bellsland. On a pitch which played remarkably well considering the conditions, the visitors totalled 189-9 from their 50 overs. This was probably around 30 more than they should have got, having been 130-7 at one stage. The bowling and fielding for Killie was generally good, although there was a frustrating tendency to bowl a bad ball when the pressure was on which was duly punished. Star bowler was veteran Mohammed Saleem who took 5 wickets with his mixture of legspin, topspin and seam bowling. Kilmarnock’s reply threatened to challenge briefly on a couple of occasions, notably when Arif clubbed a series of boundaries in rapid succession. However, none of the batsmen were able to translate good starts into longer innings, with David Nimbley and Arif both falling in the mid 20s. Prestwick bowled accurately and took almost every chance in the field, with two excellent catches to get rid of Ruddock and Saleem. The Killie innings ended on 110 in the 39th over – defeat by 79 runs. Although the margin flattered Prestwick a bit, the result did not as they applied themselves rather more with the bat and bowled less bad balls than the home team.

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24th July 2010: Western Union Div 2 - Kilmarnock 174 ao beat GU Staff 158 ao by 16 runs

On Saturday Kilmarnock hosted GU Staff at Bellsland hoping to end recent poor results which have killed off any hopes they held of the league title. With a couple of 1st team stalwarts unavailable, David Nimbley and Alexander Gibson made the step up from the 2nd XI. Despite frantic work on the wicket pre match, there was a damp green deck underfoot. Coupled with grey, cloudy conditions overhead, there was significant encouragement for the bowlers, therefore it was no surprise on Captain McFadzean losing the toss Kilmarnock were asked to bat.

Kilmarnock openers Johnstone and Saeed (70) the latter of whom was playing his last game for the club made their way out to the middle, it was expected that expansive strokeplay would be at a minimum given the conditions. However, Saeed seemed to have other ideas laying into the bowling from the off setting an early marker hitting the 1st over of the match for 10 runs. Making a mockery of conditions, he carted the bowling all around wicket and a result the score rapidly increased. Johnstone, on the other hand provided a perfect foil for Saeed being slightly more defensive minded being happy just to manoeuvre the ball around. Both batsmen looked comfortable at the crease with the score sitting at 74 off 17 overs, but the introduction of Orrick (5-43) pegged back the Kilmarnock innings. Firstly Johnstone was removed, and soon after Saeed departed for an excellently played 70. However there was an element of disappointment as there was a real possibility of him reaching his century.

This breakthrough buoyed the opposition and lead to the fall of further wickets, and soon Kilmarnock found themselves six down for 114 with Orrick and Guest (3-39) doing most of the damage. McFadzean (17) and Nimbley (31 not out) at this point had the task of steadying the Kilmarnock innings. Both batsmen played sensibly and within themselves and soon the Kilmarnock scoreboard was looking healthier. Unfortunately McFadzean hit a full toss straight down deep mid-wicket’s throat leaving Nimbley the task of marshalling the tail to try and get Kilmarnock up to a competitive total. Nimbley was ablely supported by Chris Marshman (12) who showed one or two of the upper order how they should have batted and soon enough the innings had again gained some momentum. A score of above 200 was looking very much on the card, when Marshman fell to a brilliant one handed catch at mid-wicket off a full blooded pull stroke.

Both Pasha and Gibson departed reasonably quickly and the Kilmarnock innings ended in the 48th over with the total on 174 with Nimbley left not out for a very well played 31. Kilmarnock went out to field knowing that they had a very competitive total on the board, but that high standards would be required to turn it into a winning total. Indeed Kilmarnock got off to the perfect start when they got a run out in the 2nd over. Encouraged by this good start the Kilmarnock opening bowlers Hamilton (4-33) and Pasha (3-74) set out to continue the success. Both did so, bowling some excellent lines and lengths taking full advantage of the favourable conditions. Hamilton in particular was generating a great deal of swing with the new ball which at his pace made him at times almost unplayable.

It was indeed Hamilton that got the 2nd wicket to fall and at 9-2 GU Staff looked to be in trouble. However the GU Staff number 3 Kharmar (38) perhaps on seeing Saeed’s earlier success with expansive strokeplay, himself set out to look to dominate the bowling. Dealing mainly in boundaries he quickly rattled up his score and placed Kilmarnock on the back foot. However, just as a change of bowling looked on the cards, Pasha made a double strike removing Kharmar and Ahmed in consecutive deliveries to move balance of power back in Kilmarnock’s favour. When Hamilton got his 3rd wicket in the next over it looked as if a collapse was on the cards, and the game may not go too much further. However the opposition in the form of Devidiga (48) and Shinde (17) although riding their luck at times started to rebuild the innings and take advantage of the fact the wet outfield had now ruined the ball in terms of bowling.

With no success in breaking the partnership McFadzean shuffled his bowlers about hoping to end it as GU Staff were edging ever closer to their victory target. A moment of controversy then arose as it looked as if Nimbley (1-6) had made the breakthrough when the ever increasingly more dangerous looking Devidiga whipped him off his legs and Hamilton appeared to take a good low catch diving across at square leg. However the batsman stood his ground, and the umpire not being certain of it being a clean catch gave the benefit of the doubt to the batsman. This upset some of the Kilmarnock players slightly, however after a heated discussion the match continued although the Kilmarnock players were disappointed that the decision hadn’t gone in their favour. However, in the end Hamilton got his man, as soon after he had him caught behind for a well played 48 in tricky batting conditions but the score by this point was at 114 and had the partnership continued much longer a GU Staff victory seemed likely. The reintroduction of Pasha proved to be a good decision as he removed Shinde clean bowled and at this point Kilmarnock looked slight favourites to take the victory with 8 wickets down but with only 24 runs to go play with it could still go either way.

With both Pasha and Hamilton bowled out, McFadzean put his faith in Nimbley and Marshman (1-10) to bowl the crucial death overs at the end of the innings. Neither bowler let their captain down both bowling keeping things tight piling the pressure on the GU Staff tail, Marshman in particular consistently bowling into the block hole making him almost impossible to get away. Sure enough their efforts were rewarded when Nimbley removed Orrick caught at mid-wicket by Pasha and in the following over Marshman cleaned up the opposition number 11 leaving GU Staff an agonising 16 runs shorts giving Kilmarnock what was on the whole a well deserved victory.

The result was a good one for Kilmarnock as GU Staff are one of the better ones in the division, and it was achieved with what could be said to be a weakened team. However, everybody contributed and at the end of the day it was enough for the victory. If this had been done a little more often this season Kilmarnock may have still had aspirations for the league title. A major positive to be taken from proceedings was the improved fielding and Kilmarnock will be hoping to continue that good effort in their games for the rest of the season. On a final note as earlier mentioned it was Zeeshan Saeed’s last game for the club as he is moving down south due to work commitments. An excellent aggressive opening bat, safe pair of hands behind the stumps and a generally very nice fellow to have in the dressing room, he will be a big loss to the club, and everybody at the club wishes him the best for the future.

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18th July 2010: Sunday League Div 3 - Clydesdale 136 ao beat Kilmarnock 102 ao by 34 runs

A report not as good as one by ‘Short Leg’..........

The Sunday team took to the field for the first time in nearly two months in very different weather to the last game, played on a glorious day, against Helensburgh. Credit must go to both teams who played through the rain until the better weather came later in the match, while damp conditions, especially early on, meant the wicket was slow at times and throughout each innings batsmen had to really apply themselves.

Clydesdale were the opposition today, taking the field having won their previous 3 fixtures and not scoring less than 235 runs per innings in the process.

Unfortunately, a late call off / mix up and car trouble meant Kilmarnock took the field with only 9 players - Les receiving a 1.50 call up for a dash down the M77. Clydesdale batted first and scored 30 runs in the first 5 overs before Ollie made the breakthrough. In the end a total of 136 was reached, with Scobie playing particularly well for a nicely made 52, ably supported by Borthwick who made 31. Other than these, only Duncan of the other batsmen got into double figures, with 9 wickets falling for 78 runs in 26 overs. The stand out bowlers were Ollie (3 for 9) and Javaid (3 for 13) while 'Sheila' bowled really well and deserved better figures than 1 for 32. A couple of catches were spilled, although in the main the fielding was good with Grant outstanding with a good catch and got a run out with a direct hit.

Kilmarnock's reply didn't get off to the best of starts with Chippy out with the score at 3 and soon the total was 19 for 4 and 35 for 4. A 41 run partnership between Jon (12) and Javaid, who followed his excellent bowling with a fine 31, raised hopes however the last 6 wickets fell for 26 with only Salman (14) getting into double figures; Mahmood proving hard to bat against with a well bowled 4-for. In truth, all of Clydesdale's bowlers returned good figures however.

After the tribulations of one or two recent games, it was nice to play a game against a nice bunch of guys in a keenly contested, but sportingly played match, and it is not hard to see why Clydesdale are where they are in the table.

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17th July 2010: Western Union Div 2 - St Michaels 183 for 5 beat Kilmarnock 181 for 7 by 5 wkts

Kilmarnock made the long trip south to Dumfries on Saturday to take on table toppers St Michaels. With regular captain Tom McFadzean out, Jim Hill took the reigns for the game and on losing the loss were asked to bat first on a slow low deck with a decent covering of grass that offered plenty of encouragement for the bowlers. Openers Saeed (39) and Johnstone (17) had to deal with some lively bowling from the St Michaels bowlers especially from the St Michaels professional Smith (2-67) who was generating good pace & bounce from the top end. Despite this both batsmen managed to ride the storm early on working the ball for runs but from time to time being given a slightly poorer ball which they were able to crack away to the boundary. Saeed in particular was starting to look strong at the crease as he closed in on his half century but unfortunately he fell in the last over of the opening bowlers spell when the ball climbed unexpectantly on him & he spooned a relatively straightforward chance to square leg who held the catch.

Unfortunately as often happens one wicket brought another as in the very next over Johnstone was removed by Brockwell (3-35) with one that spun rather sharply beating the bat and bowling him. This was a bitter blow to lose both openers in quick succession as they were starting to get on top of the bowling causing the opposition to start to get frustrated. With the new batsmen Aleem (52 not out) and Baig (27) at the crease Kilmarnock looked to consolidate their good start but also keep the momentum that the openers had given them. Again on a wicket that wasn’t favourable to big strokeplay the both batsmen just had to bide their time working the ball around for 1s and 2s & just wait for the bad ball. However, both Batsmen stuck hard to their task & soon Kilmarnock were in a very healthy position at 136-2 with 10 overs of the innings remaining. Baig at this point was removed as he looked to go over the top trying to up the run rate.

Sadly, Kilmarnock failed to take full advantage of this strong position and rather stuttered to 181 with Aleem finishing not out after a fine half century. This although perhaps being slightly disappointing was still a very competitive total on the wicket and looked as if would be a struggle to chase down for St Michaels. After the interval Kilmarnock set out to put St Michaels under some early pressure with the ball. Opening bowlers Pasha (1-49) & Hamilton (1-41) bowled some good lines & lengths first up, & the latter was rewarded with a wicket in his 2nd over. Further consistent bowling from both perhaps didn’t achieve the success it merited, therefore captain Hill decided to introduce himself (3-51) & Ashraf (0-42) in an attempt to break up the developing partnership. Sure enough the breakthrough came with Hill having the dangerous Brockwell (30) caught at leg slip by Raine, and soon after removed Muir (12) lbw to get a 2nd new batsmen at the wicket.

At 52-3 St Michaels looked to be in a spot of trouble, however new batsmen Kishore (72 not out) & Smith (49) steadied the innings, and slowly started to go from strength to strength. Although unlucky at times with both batsmen riding their luck, Kilmarnock didn’t help their cause with some lacklustre ground fielding and dropping both batsmen. In truth though, both batsmen did well, and had taken their team onto the cusp of victory when Smith was removed by lbw by Pasha in his 2nd spell. Hill removed Shah for a duck to put add some pressure onto St Michaels as the game went down to the wire, but sure enough St Michaels crossed the finishing line in the penultimate over when Pasha was lofted over long on for a huge 6. It was a bitter defeat for Kilmarnock considering they had set a total that shouldn’t have seen them defeated, & the main cause of defeat was their own sub standard fielding. However, there were some positives to be taken from proceedings & Kilmarnock will hope to take them into their next game at home to the Glasgow University Staff.

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3rd July 2010: Western Union Div 2 - Bothwell 200 for 5 beat Kilmarnock 199 ao by 5 wkts

Kilmarnock welcomed Bothwell to Bellsland on Saturday hoping to end their slight slump in form over the past 2 weeks. With conditions bright & breezy & a green but firm wicket underfoot Captain McFadzean finally won a toss & elected to bat first looking to put the visitors under pressure. The Kilmarnock openers Saeed (62) & Johnstone had to be watchful early on at the start of the innings as the Bothwell opening bowlers hit good tight lines and lengths first up and where aided by some movement off the seam. Unspectacular but steady batting was what was required and both batsmen fulfilled the brief gradually taking the score up to 31 off the first 12 overs.

Bothwell then made the breakthrough courtesy of McKenzie (1-28) as he penetrated Johnstone’s defence sending the stumps flying. Unfortunately Baig came and went quickly with only 2 added to the total which left Kilmarnock looking to steady the innings and generate some much needed momentum. Mohammed Aleem (52) at this point joined Saeed at the wicket. Starting slowly both batsmen managed to play themselves in to their innings despite some decent bowling from Bothwell, and soon enough both batsmen were up and running. Playing a beautiful array of strokes all around the wicket, backed up by some sharp running between the wickets the ball was despatched to all areas of the ground leaving the Bothwell fielders with little to do but admire the stroke play. Saeed in particular played some lusty blows down the ground, and soon the score rattling upwards.

Taking the score up to 131 after only 23 overs together at the crease both Batsmen reached richly deserved half centuries drawing raptures from the assembled spectators on the boundary. However, soon afterwards both batsmen lost their wickets through excellent fielding rather than poor strokeplay. Saeed attempted perhaps one big shot too many however looked to have found the gap in the field only for the Bothwell fielder to take a very good catch over his shoulder, and Aleem looked to have smashed another boundary only for the Bothwell fielder to take a splendid low diving catch on the boundary edge. Looking to keep the momentum going Zaman (33) was promoted up the order to open his shoulders. He so obliged getting into the 30s in only a handful of deliveries including planting Din (0-39) back over his head for six into the river, which hadn’t been seen at Kilmarnock since the days of McNeil Morgan the West Indian Kilmarnock legend. Kilmarnock seemed set for a score of 230 plus until a couple of quick run outs halted the innings in its tracks. Firstly Zaman was run out by his partner Taj as he looked for a relatively simple second run which Taj decided he didn’t fancy taking. Despite the calls from the sidelines for Taj to step out his crease to allow Zaman to keep batting for the good of the team he remained and Zaman unfortunately had to walk. To make things worse Taj was run out himself in the very next over thanks to a good piece of fielding from the Bothwell mid-wicket fielder.

After that the Kilmarnock innings rather petered out with only Ashraf (10) reaching double figures, and Kilmarnock were bowled out on the last ball of the innings for 199 1 run short of the last batting point. Although still a very defendable target it was a disappointed final total considering the position after 36 overs was 131-2. Much like the Kilmarnock innings before it, the Bothwell response started slowly with the opening bowlers Pasha (1-58) and Zaman (3-24) making use of conditions by producing some accurate line and length bowling. Zaman made the breakthrough in the 4th over ending Baxter’s contribution to proceedings. The removal of the Bothwell number 3 soon afterwards got the Kilmarnock tails up as they sensed another couple of quick wickets and a Bothwell collapse could be on the cards. Kilmarnock thought they had achieved the necessary wicket when Zaman bowled Dass first ball only for in to be adjudged a no ball by the umpire.

With the batsmen starting to look more comfortable at the crease Hamilton (0-60) was introduced into the attack along with Jim Hill (0-20). Bowling some very good areas causing the batsmen some problems, Hamilton was unfortunate and on another day could have had 3 or 4 wickets had edges gone to hand, nasty hacks into the air went to fielders, or close lbws shouts given. Hill plugged away giving 100% as usual, however struggled slightly with conditions not favouring his brand of off-spin, though managed to keep things relatively tight. Very much riding their luck the Bothwell batsmen had started to get ever closer to the target and the Kilmarnock’s concerns escalated when Zaman had to leave with 16 overs still remaining due to work commitments making Kilmarnock’s task in the field ever harder with only 10 men.

The reintroduction of Pasha got the much needed wicket of Dion (31) and Kilmarnock hopes of a victory reinvigorated. However, at this point the heavens opened making fielding and bowling exceptionally difficult as the ball was now like a bar of soap. Ashraf (0-29) somehow managed to control the ball enough to bowl reasonably economical overs towards the end but nonetheless due to some aggressive running and positive strokeplay from Bawa (29) and McKenzie (68 not out) Bothwell required only 12 from the last 4 overs. A late run out gave Kilmarnock hope of perhaps scraping a draw, but the new batsman Eyles entered and hit the winning runs from the second last over. It was a day of what ifs for Kilmarnock, and game that could have been quite easily won had key moments gone in their favour. Nobody could be said to have had a poor game which gives some positives for the team to work on as they prepare for their game next week away to Anniesland, and look to return to winning ways.

On Thursday night a Kilmarnock select XI defeated a Clydesdale select XI to reach the semi finals of the Glasgow Cup. Batting first, Kilmarnock posted a fine score of 141-3 off their 20 overs with Saeed (72 not out) and Aleem (39) giving a precursor to their Saturday stand with a fine 123 run partnership, giving the Kilmarnock bowlers a very good total to bowl with. The Clydesdale response was always in difficulty with the Kilmarnock opening bowlers of Nimbley (0-16) and Hamilton (1-15) bowling with good pace and accuracy, beating the bat time after time. After that opening spell put the game pretty much out of reach the bowling was shared around generously by captain McFadzean with everybody chipping in with wickets. Ashraf in particular impressing with (2-5) off his 5 overs. Clydesdale eventually ended their innings on 103-9 giving Kilmarnock a comfortable 38 run victory. Hopefully Kilmarnock will be able to continue their run in the competition and bring the club its first silverware in 11 years.

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26th June 2010: Western Union Div 2 - GHK 140 for 4 beat Kilmarnock 139 ao by 6 wkts

On Saturday Kilmarnock welcomed GHK to Bellsland for a top of the table encounter with the home side hoping to close the gap on the visitors who are currently sitting at the head of the division. Kilmarnock’s run to loosing the toss was finally ended by McFadzean & with a firm wicket underfoot, took the decision to place the opposition into the field hoping to post a challenging total putting the opposition under pressure. The Kilmarnock Openers Saeed & Alan Hill looked to get Kilmarnock off to a solid start in the face of some sharp if erratic bowling from the GHK opening bowlers. Both batsmen were quite content to knock around 1s & 2s which were heavily supplemented by extras gifted by the opposition, in particular wides being a heavy contributor. However with the score on 24, Hill was caught in the slips trying to guide the ball down to third man off the bowling if Rana (1-37), and in the next over Saeed was also removed by Allan (1-17) without the total being added to. Things worsened for Kilmarnock when for the second time in 2 games one of their batsmen had to leave to crease early after taking a heavy blow during the innings. On this occasion the unlucky batsman was Baig, who left the field before having the chance to trouble the scorers.

This brought debutant Saud Taj to the wicket to partner the in form Aleem, as both batsmen looked to rebuilt the innings after the slight wobble. Both men showed great patience movuering the bowling around & showed pace between the wickets to slowly creep the Kilmarnock score up. As previously in the innings the GHK bowlers seemed quite happy to gift Kilmarnock runs with wides especially Mahmed who in a 4 over spell bowled an astonishing 19 wides! With the partnership beginning to look good, Taj was unfortunate to receive a ball that kept a little low and he was given out lbw for what had actually been a well played 12. Madzean being in reasonably good form hoped to increase the score with Aleem, but unfortunately 3rd ball hit a full toss straight to short cover for a duck.

The loss of this wicket sparked a collapse in the Kilmarnock innings. Firstly, Baig who returned to the crease scratched around for a short time, but honestly still didn’t look comfortable after being hit skied a return catch to the bowler and after that the Kilmarnock tail somewhat capitulated down to a combination of accurate bowling & misjudgement on the part of the batsmen. Only Jim Hill (19) & David Horne (11) managed to reach double figures in the second half of the Kilmarnock innings which was particularly disappointing. The pick of the GHK bowlers were Newman (3-19) and Anjim (4-32) who both put the ball in good areas & were duely rewarded with excellent figures. In the end Kilmarnock posted a poor 139 off 33 overs with extras being top scorer with 45,which considering conditions was particularly disappointing. After a rousing half time team talk & highlighting what would be required in the field Kilmarnock entered the field with renewed vigour & fight looking for the quick wickets that would drag them back into contention for the victory. Kilmarnock began well with Pasha (3-33) bowling some really tight lines & lengths being rewarded with the wickets of MacKay and Kamran cheaply. He was supported by Hamilton (1-48) who from time to time managed to make use of the variable bounce at his end of the wicket to cause the batsmen some serious difficulties.

At 24-3 GHK looked to be in trouble, however poor bowling from Hamilton allowed some of the pressure to be released, and McFadzean was forced to shuffle his attack in the search for some quick wickets. Aleem (0-7), Jim Hill (0-12), Ashraf (0-19) and McFadzean (0-19) himself all bowled fairly tidy spells but were unable to break the partnership between Ahmed (50 not out) and Thomson (23) which looked to be guiding GHK to a comfortable victory. With a last throw of the dice the ball was returned to Pasha who managed to bowl a snorter of a delivery to remove Thomson clean bowled, but after that Hussain (26 not out) joined Ahmed and neither batsman looked particularly troubled by the bowling and with a flurry of aggressive strokes aided by some poor bowling and fielding guided GHK to what was in the end a comfortable 6 wicket victory with 24 overs remaining.

Kilmarnock although slightly unfortunate to perhaps have conditions against them in the field with the cloud cover disappearing and the sun beating down giving the GHK batsmen perfect batting condition will be disappointed with their efforts in the field, with them for long periods of the innings looking lethargic, and at some points even, resigned to defeat long before it ever came. Kilmarnock will be looking to bounce back next week against Bothwell a team whom they have already defeated this season, as look to end their poor run of results. However, the team know that a much improved performance will be required if they are to achieve victory and keep them in the hunt for promotion and the league title.

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19th June 2010: Western Union Div 2 - Whitehaugh 182 for 9 beat Kilmarnock by 22 runs

On Saturday Kilmarnock travelled to Paisley to play Whitehaugh hoping for another victory to aid their title challenge. Kilmarnock welcomed back David Horne & Duncan Hamilton after missing the previous week’s victory against Langloan. On losing the toss Kilmarnock were asked to bowl in favourable conditions for batting however there was a still a covering of grass on the wicket to offer encouragement to the bowlers. Kilmarnock made a good start with Zubeer Pasha (1-6) & Hamilton (1-31) bowling good consistent lines & lengths making life difficult for the Whitehaugh openers. An early breakthrough was achieved when Hamilton had Morrow (11) caught in the slips thanks to a sharp take from captain McFadzean & soon after Pasha joined in removing the Whitehaugh number 3.

The introduction of Abbas Zaman (4-62) & Jim Hill (2-52) lead to further wickets with a combination of good bowling & loose strokes leading to the batsmen’s downfall. Javad Ashraf (0-23) was then brought on & in tandem with Hill succeeded in stifiling the batmen’s progress & after 30 overs Whitehaugh were struggling on 82-5. However Whitehaugh in the form of Ogllvie (50) & McLean (54 not out) rallied & through a combination of aggressive strokeplay & rather lacklustre fielding placed Kilmarnock on the backfoot. Their entertaining partnership of 75 coming off just 15 overs was ended when Zaman knocked back Ogllvie’s leg stump. With Kilmarnock now coming under the cosh the innings finished with on 182-9 with some late innings wickets steming the flow of runs.

Disappointed with the unacceptable standard of fielding at times Kilmarnock went into the break knowing that they had allowed Whitehaugh to post a defendable total when at one point it looked like they could be chasing as little as 120. However, it was nonetheless a total that was achieveable considering the batting firepower contained in the Kilmarnock ranks. Things didn’t start well in Kilmarnock’s response as not long after openers Johnstone & Saeed walked out to batter the latter top edged a sweep shot into his face & had to retire hurt to allow the damage to be repaired. This brought the in form Aleem to the crease, unfortunately he could not continue his good form & was back in the pavilion soon after, after being caught behind by the wicket-keeper.

Things were to get worse for Kilmarnock as Johnstone & McFadzean were removed in quick succession leaving Kilmarnock innings in a perilous position. A recovery was then mounted in the form of Richard Laidlaw (20) & Zaman (19) who slowly batting in a sensible manner edged the score up to 56 before Zaman top edged a hook to the Whitehaugh wicket-keeper. Neither Horne or Hill were able to keep Laidlaw company for very long both falling to catches after failing to keep the ball on the ground. Laidlaw & Ashraf (34 not out) seemed to offer Kilmarnock the solidity they were looking for before Laidlaw was out caught behind after the ball unfortunately leaped off a length taking an edge off the top of his bat handle after he was unable to get his bat off of the way in time. This the Kilmarnock innings in the very unhealthy position of being 84-7 after 28 & crashing to defeat seeming the most likely result.

At this point in proceedings after refusing offers to be taking to hospital Saeed returned to the crease now armed with a helmet. Bravely batting through the pain he & Ashraf thanks to a collection of fine shots & rescued Kilmarnock taking them upto 128 after 43 overs putting them in a very competitive position & reigniting their hopes of victory. Saeed eventually fell lbw for an excellently played 42. Kilmarnock appeared to be in little trouble from the bowling as Hamilton joined Ashraf with both batsmen looking comfortable at the crease & the total of 182 looking evermore achieveable. However, with all looking calm it was at this point that Hamilton decided to inject tension back into proceedings by foolishly ignoring his more senior partner’s call & running himself out with another 40 still required. This killed off any hoped Kilmarnock had of winning the game.

The fall of the wicket left Ashraf & Pasha a nervy 5 overs to see out to avoid a defeat & despite a few hear in the mouth moments they saw Kilmarnock through to a decent draw considering their position at one point of the match. Nonetheless it had been a poor team performance & Kilmarnock came off the field at the close of play feeling more relieved than pleased with the way things had panned out. The team however, took heart from the fact that they had played at times of the game a standard greatly lower than that they demand from each other, & had still managed to away from the game with something from it, the sign of a good team. Next week Kilmarnock host GHK in the return fixture from earlier in the season when Kilmarnock lost out by a single run, & McFadzean will be hoping that the team can return to winning ways.

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19th June 2010: Western Union Div 4 - Scotindians 300 ao beat Kirkstyle 126 ao by 174 runs

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12th June 2010: Western Union Div 2 - Kilmarnock 161 for 7 beat Langloan 160 ao by 3 wkts

A report by ‘Short Leg’..........

Killie made the trip East on Saturday to take on Langloan in the Derek Mair – Action Coach sponsored Western Union match, hoping to make it 4 wins on the bounce. With the Fenwick Flyer unavailable due to drinking commitments in Cumbria, Killie were bolstered by Imran’s inclusion. For once this season, things looked to be going Killie’s was prior to the toss as most of the team arrived 12.30’ish. A good sign. Incidentally, after playing cricket for more years than I care to remember, Langloan was the first changing room I have been in that provides Potpourri. Luckily, with Dunc away, no-one was likely to mistake it for Bombay Mix.

Toots, as usual, lost the toss and Killie were asked to field. The wicket itself was extremely dry, a feature which couldn’t apply to the Flyer, and promised to deteriorate throughout the afternoon, a feature, which would probably aptly describe the Flyer.

Langloan made a slow start with openers Bayson and Hamilton batting cautiously. Bayson reigned in his normal Dartanion flashing blade role, whilst Hamilton is an extremely doughty fighter. In truth the wicket played a big part in this as it was extremely slow, which negated the pace of Abbas. Pash was uncharacteristically un-Pash like. Whether this was down to him losing a tooth or the fact that the only ‘dusty, dusty’ he is likely to see in the foreseeable future, was the wicket. It took Toots himself to come back from a 1 over spell, to break the partnership with his first ball as Hamilton unsure whether to drive, cut or defend, missed it completely and was bowled. Pretty soon afterwards Toots turned to Jim in the 14th over. He seems to have taken some fishing lessons from the Chipmeister as he ‘reeled’ off 15 overs on the trot – all right I know it’s a pretty mince link but it’s the best I can do without alcohol. Finishing with figures of 1-32, which could have been better as 16 came off his last 2. One of his wickets was ex-Scotland internationalist Alan Stevenson who fell in quite bizarre circumstances. Padding up to Jim, the ball looped up and over his shoulder before breaking the wickets. Langloan never really broke the shakles and it took a stand of 60 between McAteer and Aziz to take them up to 160 a/o. Memories of Aziz from last year were all too fresh in the minds of the Killie fielders and despite a couple of bit hits off Jim and Pash he was fairly muted. Abbas, despite bowling on a feather bed recorded another 5 wicket haul, and Pash rounded things off with a brace.

And so onto the batting. Over the past couple of matches Killie have racked up record after record. On this wicket however a different tact would have to be taken. Head down and graft the runes down. Unfortunately Bally was out for 1 in the second over to leave Killie 4-1. This brought Elrond to the wicket in the form of his life. Starting slowly he sought to establish a partnership with AJ, who incidentally admitted that he had got his Dirks mixed up. Instead of buying all Dirk Nannes videos in Amsterdam he bought some chap called Dirk Dingler. There was a moment of great controversy early on in Elrond’s innings as Langloan appealed for a catch behind. The Elf King was unmoved, as was the bowler, who’s appeal was as late as Abbas usually arrives. However the keeper and slips were very vocal, especially when he was given not out. Matters threatened to get very heated as he was subject to a verbal assault by Alan Stevenson. Luckily though Javaid Ashraf was umpiring and little did anyone know but he has recently completed his training as a WWE wresting referee and managed to diffuse the situation. This writer is unsure whether Elrond was too perturbed as when subjected to the expletives responded with, and I quote “Elen síla lumenn' omentielvo - A star shines on the hour of our meeting”. Classic!!!

Anyway back to the action. Elrond and AJ batted cannily in the circumstances and brought up a stand worth 65 before Elrond was out for 49, caught behind. Zeeshers was out 1st ball; Rich (3) was out walking around one, which bowled him; AJ (14) was run out, caught in the crease whilst admiring his shot; and Toots’s (1) contribution was all too brief and fleeting - something that Mrs. Toots knows only too well. So from 60 odd for 1, Killie somewhat slumped to 101 for 6. Not jump off the cliff territory but not exactly solid. What was need was a bit of consolidation and this was provided by Abbas (48*) and Jim (8) with a parnership of 35 in 8 overs. Abbas played a most restrained innings and although he rode his luck, being dropped on at least 3 occasions, still managed to despatch the ball when the opportunity arose. Jim was content to play for wides, which the Langloan bowlers delivered at fairly regular intervals. With 25 needed for the win, Jim was pouched and Javaid strode to the wicket. No hiccups ensued and Killie jogged over the finish line with 6 overs and 3 wickets to spare.

Again a good win and one which Killie had to dig in at times to fashion. Apart from the shenanigans when Elrond was correctly given not out, the match was played in an excellent spirit and from Langloan’s point of view 30 more runs would have made it extremely interesting. Also in the shape of Allison, Langloan have a priceless commodity in the shape of a left arm spin bowler who isn’t afraid to give it some air.

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5th June 2010: Western Union Div 2 - Kilmarnock 326 ao beat Cambusdoon 277 ao by 49 runs

Not another report by ‘Short Leg’ this week dear readers, but 2..one by 'Short Leg' and another by 'View from the Boundary'...........

'Short Leg's' report.........

Killie made the relatively short journey to Ayr on Saturday to take on county rivals Cambusdoon in the Derek Mair – Action Coach sponsored WDCU 2nd Division match on Saturday. It was change at the helm as Toot-Toot had indicated that he would be willing to take on the role of captain for the rest of the season. Jim, who’s powers of negotiation and deal broking put Kofi Annan to shame, had a full and frank discussion with him about the responsibilities that come with the job and even then Toot-Toot was extremely positive. Incidentaly word has reached this reporter that Toots and Stef (nka Mrs Toots) are moving in after 3 wonderful years together. It is rumoured that a book has been started over how long they will stay together once she tastes Toots’ cooking. See www.kilmarnockcricketclub.co.uk for further details on the odds available.

So it came to pass that Toot-Toot, seventh son of a seventh son took over the reigns and duly lost the toss and wonder of wonders, Killie were asked to bat first on what was a veritable road. The decision to bowl first was no doubt made by the Cambusdoon skipper as they only had 9 players present – more on that later. Killie opened up with Bali and AJ – AJ quite likes the comparison to Dirk Nannes as he has all his dvd’s bought on a stag weekend to Amsterdam. A solid start developed until Bali was out caught at mid off for 24. This brought Aleem to the wicket. Playing cricket with Aleem is a bit like playing cricket with an Elf from Lord of the Rings. Living in his own wonderous world, Aleem never fails to amaze with his use of the Elvish tongue to give an accurate description on what is happening – ‘Prisoooo’ anyone????

AJ and the Elf King enjoyed a brief partnership, unfortunately AJ’s grasp of Elvish is not what it should be and he was run out by a country mile. Zeeshers came and went in the space of a few balls and Richard, whose great form of last week coincided with not having to bat with Jim, fell to a wonderful catch. This brought Toot-Toot to the crease. Would he succumb to the pressures of captaincy? Not in the slightest, as both he and Aleem enjoyed a partnership of 94 in 12 overs. Both batsmen hit the ball hard and Aleem was especially severe on, well, anything really.

All this time Cambusdoon had fielded with 9 players. Just after drinks, the 2 replacements showed up, namely ‘Bod’ Patterson and ‘Alki’ Simpson. With over 130 Scottish caps between them they not only brought great experience to the home team but also trebled the average age of the side. Word has it that they made their appearance as they had heard that Killie fielded 2 veteran spinners and they thought that it was Jim Thomson and Caldwell Gillespie (for those who know their history). Unfortunately for them and Killie it was Jim Hill and Javaid Ashraf. Even with their experience, the Butch and Sundance of South Ayrshire couldn’t stop Elrond and his quest. Once Toots departed for a well made 33, he was joined by Abbas (I biff ‘em) Zaman in a truly explosive stand worth 102 in 8 overs. Isiludirs heir was in prime form and never mind the blade that was broken how about the bat that caused chaos. Both batsmen went after the bowling, trading shot for shot as Elrond brought up his 100 in great style. Unfortunately Abbas was out 2 short of what would have been an excellent 50. Killie were bowled out for 326, a new club league record in the 49th over with Aleem contributing 143, tantalisingly only 4 short of the individual club league record. An excellent batting performance, would Killie be able to follow it up in the field?

Cheered on by a phenomenal travelling support which reached double figures for a time, before Dr and Mrs Lochrie had to rush home for Britain’s Go Talent, Killie took the field in confident mood knowing however they had to despatch Butch and Sundance to be assured of victory. Age hasn’t done the opening pair’s looks any favours and Alki’s David Hasselhoff’s locks, have long since departed these shores. However both were and continue to be first class batsmen, a cut above anything else in this league, the first division and many teams in the SNCL.

To say that the Cambusdoon innings started with a bang is a bit of an understatement. First ball, Pash jagged one back into Bod, who glanced down leg side. The ball was caught by Zeeshers, bedlam in the Killie ranks, immovability by Bod. No recourse for a tv replay meant that the decision was not out. Both Bod and Alki then went onto dominate the Killie opening attack on Pash and Abbas putting on 50 odd in jig time. It took the introduction of the Fenwick Flyer to make the first breakthrough, as Alki skied one and was taken at mid off by Abbas. This brought Neil McCrossin to the wicket – again probably a cut above most other players in the WDCU. Together with Bod, they put on the best part of 150. Whilst things weren’t running away from Killie, there was no doubt that if a wicket wasn’t taken then Cambusdoon would be in pole position. It would need something special and that’s what happened. One got away from Zeeshers to third man and McCrossin scampered through for what he thought would be an easy single. Jim managed to dive, pick up the ball and throw the stumps down at the bowlers end as Bod toddled up the wicket – out for 93 by 6 yards. Pretty damn amazing, if the truth be told. Cue pandemonium as players and spectators alike enjoyed the moment, ever so slightly!! The run out turned the game on its head and brought McCrossin number 2 to the wicket, Colin. Pretty soon afterwards Abbas bowled Neil McCorssin for an excellent 85. Next ball, another wicket – again comprehensively bowled. Hatrick ball, stumps scattered but no-ball the call. Things were going Killie’s way however with McCrossin number 2 at the wicket, Cambusdoon were able to believe that they could hold out for a draw as wickets fell all around him. 3 overs to go, 3 wickets needed for victory. Abbas bowled, McCrossin padded up, huge appeal, umpire gave him out. McCrossin was flabbergasted – ‘Don’t you know the rules?’ he yelled at the umpire. Out is out though. When he managed to drag himself away he had contributed an extremely well made 64. Next ball, next wicket as Abbas cleaned up number 10. 2 overs left and 1 wicket to take, with Jim bowling. 3 balls later and its all over, as number 10 is bowled by Hill. Abbas finished with 5-75, Jim 3-49, Dunc 1-40 and oh, I almost forgot – that run out …

All in all an excellent result for Killie, which keeps them in the hunt for league honours this year. We also had the confirmation that Pash is a living deity. Everyone knew that he walked on water however with 15 overs to go he went down in agony as his right leg seemed to go from under him. Jim told him that he wasn’t going to leave the field – it’s a local derby after all. Pash gamely stuck it out for a few overs before even Jim relented. He dragged himself off the field, doubts were aired that this may be just too much for his body to handle. 10 mins later he was prancing about like a teenager. Never since some chap from the Middle East rose again 2,000 years ago ,has the world ever seen anything like it. What did Pash put this down to? RALGEX, best known cure for all ills since Drambuie.

Saturday was a great game of cricket from both sides. An extremely young Cambusdoon team – without Butch and Sundance, stuck gamely to the task. Killie batted very well with Aleem taking the plaudits. Ayr must have an extremely good 1st XI as the 1st 4 Cambusdoon batsmen would walk into virtually any team in any league in the WDCU and most SNCL teams. Killie stuck to the task and were rewarded in the end.

Oh and by the way, did you hear about the run out …

And now, 'view from the Boundary'.....

What a game!

Turning up in the 17th over on Saturday (decorating duties completed), your scribe had no idea what a match we were in for. His acute observation powers immediately (well after about 3 overs) came into play as he noticed a distinct lack of fielders – 9 in total. This made the Killie score of 90-3 look slightly less impressive than it was. However, the 7th Cavalry were at hand – rolling the years back, Bruce Patterson and David Simpson turned up slightly earlier than the Custer relief force. It must be good to have two ex Scotland players up your sleeve for these moments!

Back to the match – a quick summary of proceedings to date was had from AJ, who had been an early victim, not of the bowling, but of Aleem’s running. He had nearly forgiven him a couple of hours later, but more of that anon. Zeeshers and Bilal had also been and gone, the former in particular missing out on the Cambusdoon ‘road’. Rich then managed to smack a wide to an athlete (one of very few on display) at point who pulled one out the sky to leave us 100-4 and teetering a little, particularly as Abbas was posted awol at the beach with his friend at this point. However a text from Toot Toot just before he went out to bat soon brought him back. Toot Toot and Aleem then put on a pleasing 80 or so, Aleem being dropped on about 40 – regulation catch at mid off which was to prove very expensive. Tom moved smoothly along to reach his customary 30something before deciding he had been there too long and skying an attempted sweep (against the spin!) which was pouched this time by the bowler who was fed up with his colleagues attempts in the field.

By now Aleem was dealing only in boundaries and singles, dispatching some ordinary Ayr bowling to all parts of the ground, and making room to hit the better stuff over extra cover. Abbas had joined him and didn’t bother with the singles, moving to 48 in quick time, while Aleem cruised along to a superb 100. Balls were being shelled out the ground like howitzer fire at the Somme at this point and Deadly was despatched to guard the boundary wall. This didn’t prevent one going over of course, and he engaged in some debate about the law of trespass with some Ayr matron before deciding not to climb the fence. There’s an Edinburgh lawyer for you.

By now the score was mounting towards 300, and a few flashing blows from Jim and Javaid helped Aleem take it on before Aleem finally holed out for a magnificent 143. The innings sputtered to a close, as Deadly showed us why it’s unlikely that his promotion beyond number 10 will continue. A patient 4 not out making Bod’s occasional off spin look like Murali at the SCG. Bod took 3-40odd off about 5 overs, including a ball bizarrely kneed for 6 by the hapless long on fielder. So 326 all out in the 48th over – game over in most circumstances, but not here.

BMW Patterson did not hit 90 against Australia by chance in his prime, and the Killie attack on this track would not have had him too worried. The Killie support had now been swelled by various refugees from the cancelled 2nd XI match plus Niall Lochrie and family trying to get him son to sleep – sorry Niall wrong day for that. The President and his son also turned up. Our spies in the scorebox tell us that our scorer asked Cammy why his Dad wasn’t playing and he replied ‘he’s not good enough for this team’. Hope you didn’t buy him too many sweets Alan. A huge appeal for a catch behind against Patterson off Pasha was greeted with ‘not out’ by the youthful Ayr umpire who was clearly mindful of his future career prospects in the Ayr team. AJ standing briefly and bravely at short leg noted that he must have wooden pads. Bod announced intentions by hoisting a length ball from Pasha for 6 over long on. Your scribe successfully negotiated his way into the garden this time (are you reading this Deadly?) but failed to find the ball which was not surprising given the various lines he was given by the alleged golfers among the crowd. He did find another ball though, which Jim announced to be ‘better than the crap the League have bought this year’. There was another short delay while Mrs McElnea retrieved her new puppy from the park to good natured ribaldry from the increasingly refreshed crowd.

Despite David Simpson falling to Deadly courtesy of a good catch at mid off by Abbas, the Ayr reply was moving along ominously well, and the Killie crowd were becoming apprehensive and restive for a bowling change as the score passed 100 and then 150 for the loss of only one wicket, with a couple of sharp chances going down. Toot Toot duly obliged with a cameo over himself: Ayr needing 7.5 an over were duly presented with a BOGOF – 15 run over as Tom tried to ensure that Deadly and AJ stayed loose in the field by running repeatedly to the deep mid wicket boundary to retrieve the ball from the hedge. El Presidente had now departed to beautify himself for a soiree in Kilmarnock, after several increasingly urgent texts from his wife. He asked to be kept updated though and his response to the text ‘187-1, Bod dropped’ was suitably unprintable. However the messenger was quickly back on the wires to announce , shock horror, Bod run out Hill for 92. Jim and Pasha had engaged in some desultory shies at the stumps earlier on when the batsmen were in by about 5 yards, but clearly the practice had paid off, as Jim raced round to cut off a leg side wide (your scribe may be exaggerating now) and hurled the stumps down at the far end with the Ayr maestro (BMW then) stranded. McCrossin was playing well though and was joined by his brother and they kept going for it briefly, until McCrossin senior was bowled by Abbas for a well made 80. Meanwhile at the other end, the old warhorse Pasha was back on until falling to his knees mid over as age told. If he was a horse he would have been shot. Jim took over and promptly had other McCrossin dropped on the boundary – this looked like it might prove costly, as he played with a mixture of aggression and watchfulness to nurse the infant Ayr tail towards a draw. The lower order scorecard was distinctly binary for Ayr, but they looked like hanging on with 7 or 8 down until an appeal from Abbas against McCrossin was bravely upheld by the Ayr youngster umpiring.

It looked like bad light might stop play by the time McCrossin chose to leave the field, and his excellent knock of 64 was marred somewhat by arguing with his own player before leaving, with some encouragement from your scribe and the other Killie supporters. Thereafter, another Abbas yorker left Ayr 9 down with 2 overs left. Jim then bowled a vicious delivery which bamboozled the batsman by staying straight and it was all over, Ayr 277 all out. 5-75 from Abbass, 3-49 from Jim, a good and unlucky spell by Deadly and a tube of Ralgex for Pasha…. Another victory, another team bowled out, 25 points at Cambusdoon! What more could one ask for? Only one thing, said the scorer’s Mum – a phone call to tell me the game’s finished!

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29th May 2010: Western Union Div 2 - Kilmarnock 237 ao beat Nunholm 76 ao by 161 runs

Not another report by ‘Short Leg’ this week..........

Kilmarnock produced another fine all-round display this weekend, as they comfortably beat Dumfries side Nunholm. After winning the toss, captain Tom McFadzean decided to bat on decent wicket, knowing that the steady drizzle could affect the pitch later in the game. Kilmarnock didn’t get off to a great start, collapsing to 32 for three after 15 overs. The Nunholm attack bowled with aggression and accuracy, and at that point Killie would have been happy with a total of 150. However, a partnership of 103 between Zeeshan Saeed (65) and Richard Laidlaw (39), followed by a stand of 76 between Tom McFadzean (27) Abbas Zaman (43) saw the hosts make it to a very credible 237 all out, and collect maximum batting points in the process. C McCutcheon bowled a couple of excellent spells for the visitors, picking up a five-wicket haul along the way.

Killie went into the break knowing they had a very good total, and the bowling attack to defend it. The second innings was only about one man. Abbas Zaman opened the bowling for Killie and had the whole Nunholm team in trouble with his pace and accuracy. He took the first eight wickets of the Nunholm innings, and could have picked up all ten if it weren’t for a couple of no balls. Abbas picked up eight for 36 in his ten overs, collecting six of these wickets within the space of just 18 deliveries. Kilmarnock’s wicket keeper, Zeeshan Saeed, deserves a mention for his glove-work behind the stumps. He took a couple of cracking catches off Abbas, and maintained control as the ball darted about on a wearing pitch.

T Williams (31) provided some resistance for the visitors, and batted well after a no ball reprieved his wicket, first ball at the crease. Having not seen the first delivery Abbas bowled to him, he did get another chance, after the umpire had collected the stumps from around the field! Killie dismissed Nunholm for just 76 runs, giving them a 161 run victory, and more importantly another 25 points. Another clinical performance from Kilmarnock has seen them cement their place within the top three of a very competitive league. Next week Kilmarnock travel to play local rivals Cambusdoon (Ayr), in what should be a very exciting match.

Kilmarnock’s second XI were also in action on Saturday, as they travelled to play local rivals St Ninians (Prestwick 2nd XI). Having lost the toss, Kirkstyle were unsurprisingly asked to bat on a very damp wicket. Once again it was a disappointing display from the away side, as they limped to 88 all out, with youngster Mohammed Azeem (21) and Grant Adams (25) being the two standout performances with the bat.

At the halfway stage, Kirkstyle knew that they were about 30 runs short of a good total; but with the bowling attack they have, had the capabilities of defending their low score. Kirkstyle got off to a great start, and took regular wickets throughout the St Ninians reply. Chris Marshman picked up four wickets as captain David Nimbley attacked the home side, but in the end they just didn’t have enough runs on the board. St Ninians scraped across the line for a three wicket win, knowing that another twenty or so runs would not have been gettable. Kirkstyle put up a very good performance once again, and the youngsters in the team continue to shine. They are taking steps in the right direction, and with team morale still being very high, should start to reap the benefits of such a good bowling attack.

Kirkstyle progressed to the next round of the Glasgow Cup, after they defeated Marress by 63 runs on Tuesday night. Having won the toss, Kirkstyle batted first and amassed a total of 149 for three off their twenty overs, with Zeeshan Saeed top scoring with 65. In reply Marress were restricted to just 86 for five, as Mohammed Azeem picked up three for 28 in his fours overs. Kirkstyle will face Inverclyde in the next round, with the hope of building on their fine form.

The Development XI saw their game being called off very late on Sunday morning, as Weirs conceded for the third week in a row. A disappointing end to what has been a very good week for Kilmarnock Cricket Club.

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23rd May 2010: Sunday League Div 3 - Helensburgh 208 ao, beat Kilmarnock 115 ao by 93 runs

Not going to attempt to compete with the reports of 'Short Leg' so here's brief summary. Kilmarnock lost to a strong Helensburgh side containing a number of first team players and their overseas amateur in a match containing a number of positives. At one point Helensburgh were 4 down for under 50 runs however an excellent innings by their number 6 batsmen Sterry ultimately took the game away. All of the Kilmarnock bowlers were dispatched into the trees at some point as he scored a hard hitting 104. No other batsmen got more than 14 in a score card similar to Kilmarnock's the previous week. The only disappointment was the 37 extra given away which were comfortably second top scorer.

Unfortunately Kilmarnock's run chase got off to a bad start as Aleem fell to a smart catch with only 11 on the board, and in all honesty never really looked lke getting anywhere near their host's total as all bowlers bowled accurate spells. Only Tom with a well made 45 scored more than 20, although both Mohammed and Oliver batted really well, at 2 and 3, against a good bowling attack before falling to unfotunate dismissals. Positives can be taken from the bowling of the 3 Under 15 players from last season as Oliver (2), Alex (1) and Mohammed (1) all took wickets against a powerful batting line up and bowled really well. Disappointing result but another fantastic day for cricket.

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15th May 2010: Western Union Div 2 - St Michaels 185 ao, beat Kilmarnock 68 ao by 117 runs

Another report by ‘Short Leg’..........

Well what can I say? A veritable Jekyll and Hyde performance, saw Killie throw away an excellent bowling fightback to lose by over 100 runs to St. Michaels last Saturday, in the Derek Mair – Action Coach WDCU League 2 match. The game itself changed direction so many times that you wondered if Keyser Soze was going to make an appearance– if you haven’t seen the film, watch it soon.

Jim must have thought that things had changed and he had recovered from his depression of last week, when he won the toss and elected to field. With overnight rain, it seemed a semi sensible decision, so much so that questions were asked as to whether he had decided for himself or taken advice from Alasdair Campbell – as he certainly didn’t take any from Adam Boulton.

Anyway the decision was taken and this allowed Chris ‘Swampy’ Marshman his first taste of 1st XI WDCU cricket with Kilmarnock. In fact Swampy bowled well and beat the bat regularly. After the match he said he was relaxed as he’d ever been playing cricket now that he didn’t have to share a shower with John McNair any more. Unfortunately he still has to experience the Chipmeister in the shower. Ably supported by, the bionic pensioner, Pash (3-39), St. Michaels were never able to run away with the scoring. It took the introduction of Toot-Toot to take the first wicket after the opening stand had reached 50 odd, courtesy of smart catch by Pash at fine leg after a mistimed hook shot. Wonder of wonders, the sun didn’t get into Pash’s eyes, perhaps this is because of his wondrous, flowing locks, which seem to have more volume than a pensioners tv. Incidentally, Pash completed a registration form and indicated that he was born in 1962 making him younger than Chippy!! Jim (4-50) and Javed (1-56) bowled in tandem and although they bowled tidily enough, runs came at a steady rate so much so that at the 38th over St. Michaels were 146 for 2 wickets, a platform that should have seen them easily post 250+. Que a total change of direction as St. Michaels were bowled out for 185, losing 8 wickets for 39 runs. What to put it down to: - good bowling?; athleticism in the field?; poor batting? Perhaps a bit of all 3. Catches were taken, run outs were delivered and straight balls played all around.

So all in all Killie reached the half way point in fairly optimistic mood. The only downside was the injury suffered by AJ who tweeked something in his nether regions. Still he is making substantial progress in his ongoing quest to be crowned Britain’s best beard and has more than a passing resemblance to Dirk Nannes. How would Killie fair when batting? Not very well in truth as they were effectively blown away by the opening pair, which included St. Michaels professional Smith. Wickets fell at regular intervals as Killie were bowled out for 68 with only Zeeshers (13) and Jim (16) reaching double figures. Smith bowled with a fair bit of pace but perhaps more importantly he was very accurate.

Positives were also able to be taken out of the game though. In every match this season, Killie have bowled very well, dismissing the opposition every time. Batting wise, they have looked ok and it has to be hoped that Saturday was a bit of a blip, which can be overcome with the journey to play GU staff this Saturday.

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8th May 2010: Western Union Div 2 - Kilmarnock 156 for 4 beat Anniesland 155 ao by 6 wkts

A report by ‘Short Leg’..........

Kilmarnock made it 2 wins on the bounce with a win against Anniesland on Saturday, in the Derek Mair – Action Coach WDCU League 2 match. With Ally deciding to move South to Oxford after the general election, Jim took over the reigns as captain. Word has it though that Ally will be back up on a semi regular basis – not to play cricket however but to get his hair cut.

Jim kept up Ally’s regular feat of losing the toss and Anniesland decided to bat first on a hard wicket. Killie took the field in slightly apprehensive mode. Not due to the cricket but because of events happening over the town at Rugby Park. An embargo was placed on asking for the score, which didn’t help AJ who was jumping around like a cat on a hot tin roof. Anniesland started steadily enough and by the time drinks came after 25 overs had reached 87 for 2 wickets. A mad dash took place to Alan’s new Range Rover to get the full time result from RP. AJ was beside himself and in turn this galvanised the Killie fielding performance as Anniesland slipped to 155 a/o. The 3 main bowlers for Killie Pash (3-29), Javed (2-29) and Jim (3-38) all bowled well however the highlight of the day had to be the run out by Alan ‘the cat’ Hill. Prowling in the covers he managed to stop the ball, juggle it and then get it back into Zeeshers before the batsman made his ground. Amazing; however it does probably say more about the speed of the batsmen rather than the agility of AGH!!!

The Killie innings started off very poorly as both AGH and AJ were back in the hutch in jig time. Mention must be made of the opening Anniesland bowler Shields whose front foot was pointing outwards at right angles in his delivery stride. I wonder what the Chief Podiatrist would have made of it. Luckily for Killie this brought Aleem (55*) and Zeeshers (25) to the wicket and they enjoyed a partnership of 69, which turned the game in Killie’s favour. Zeeshers was just getting into full swing when he was fingered by AGH. Decisions, decisions …

Ritch came and went soon after. However this brought ‘toot toot’ Thomas (31*) to the crease, to join Aleem in an unbroken stand of 55 to finish off the game. ‘Toot toot’, in all honesty batted well, although he did quarrel with ‘young Bearders’, Kyle with regard to his own score. Tom being 12 years older, naturally won the argument and an extra 4 runs. We also had the sight of the Chipmeister doing the wicket at half time and we do have photographic for those of you who find this beggars belief. A good win although how long Jim will remain captain remains to be seen as he was spotted going into B&Q to buy some rope after confirmation of the ‘Con-Dem’ coalition, which placed David Cameron in No 10.

The 2nd XI also got back into winning ways at the weekend with a 4 wicket win over Hughended. Taking up the cudgel, chief consumer of Magners, Nibs, won the toss and decided to field first. His decision was vindicated as Hughenden were bowled out for 90 with Javed taking 6 wickets for not very many. With the bat Killie got off to a solid start as Aleem (35) and Paul Ruddock (15) put on 47 for the 1st wicket. However things went downhill rapidly and they found themselves 61-6. An unbroken stand of 30 between the Chipmeister (10*) and Javed (20*) saw Killie home. Chippy did manage to give an exclusive interview with this reporter where he said that ‘things were tough, however we both had common ground to build the partnership’. When I asked him to talk about the cricket and not the Con-Dem coalition he was even more forth right by quoting his hero John Major when he said that ‘all that was needed was to keep sensible and get back to basics when batting’.

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1st May 2010: Western Union Div 2 - Kilmarnock 157 all out beat Bothwell by 13 runs.

Kilmarnock travelled through to Bothwell hoping to make up for last weekend’s painful 1 run defeat. A couple of changes were made to the team and Kilmarnock travelled in high hopes. Heavy rain in Bothwell had meant, although the wicket had been covered, it was still damp underneath and the toss would be important.

Kilmarnock lost the toss and were unsurprisingly asked to bat by the opposition captain. The innings started with opener Zeeshan Saeed smashing the first ball for 4 only to have his off stump uprooted next ball. Alun Johnstone and Muhammed Alem found some fluency on the tricky surface with scores of 22 and 13 respectively.

Kilmarnock began to struggle and Richard Laidlaw came to the crease for his first bat of the season having missed last weekends’ match. He began sedately but started to look increasingly impressive and dominated the 6th wicket partnership of 45 with Jim Hill before Hill needlessly ran him out on 44. After Laidlaw had become one of Hills’ many victims the innings stuttered an Kilmarnock were eventually bowled out for 157 from 43.5 overs with youngster Derrick Eyels proving the pick of the bowlers picking up 4 wickets.

On a damp wicket Kilmarnock knew that their score was defendable if they bowled and fielded well. Disaster seemed to have struck after only 2 balls when talismanic opening bowler Zubair Pasha pulled up with what looked like a serious thigh strain but he somehow continued to bowl on bowling his full spell of 15 overs on the trot picking up 4 wickets and conceding just 30 runs. It was a quite phenomenal effort given the fact he was basically bowling on 1 leg!

Pasha was supported by the rest of the bowlers and the fielders backed there bowlers superbly. Opening bowler Imran Javad also picked up 2 wickets but with 5 overs to go Eyles and a superb 62 from Das seemed to be steering Bothwell to victory with only 18 required for victory but the removal of Das changed the momentum of the match and the Kilmarnock bowlers got on top.

With 8 balls remaining it looked like the game was heading for a draw until 2 wickets in 4 balls from Jim Hill and Javaid Ashraf grabbed victory for Kilmarnock by 13 runs and it was fitting that Ashraf got the wicket after taking the team so close last week. It was a great performance from all the players and very encouraging that they continued to fight all the way to the last over.

The 2nd x1 entertained Ardrossan hoping to improve immensely from last weekend’s performance. The day didn’t start well with a call off at 5 to 1 quickly followed by opening bowler Chris Marshman having to go home after being sick on the park. If this wasn’t bad enough a further bowler pulled up with a knee injury leaving Kilmarnock virtually fielding with 8 men.

So this put the Ardrossan score of 217 for 6 into context and it was not a bad bowling display. After the loss of an early wicket stand-in skipper Paul Ruddock and Tom McFadzean put on a spirited partnership of over 50 but after the loss of Ruddock for 26 the team collapsed. Although McFadzean battled on there was no support and his valiant 40 was in vain as the team were bowled out for 76 and a crushing 150 run defeat. The team will have to continue to improve next weekend when they host Hughenden on Sunday.

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24th April 2010: Western Union Div 2 - GHK 209 all out beat Kilmarnock 208 all out by 1 run.

Kilmarnock travelled to Glasgow to take on GHK in their first game of the season in the Western Union 2nd Division after gaining promotion last year. Kilmarnock travelled to the game in hope but realising it would be a difficult game given the fact that GHK were relegated from Division 1 last year.

Captain Alistair Smith won the toss and decided to bowl on a green wicket that looked as if it would provide a bit for the bowlers. After a slow start the GHK openers soon got to grips with the Kilmarnock bowlers and they started to up the run rate. Jim Hill, 3 for 42, was brought on to slow the run rate and he did the trick by getting the wicket of Hasan for 26. An opening wicket partnership of 74 had GHK in a good position but Kilmarnock fought back with Zubair Pasha, 4 for 50, removing the dangerous Kamran and Hill bowling Mira for 58.

Kilmarnock continued to pick up wickets and had GHK at 158 for 7 but some lusty lower order hitting got them up to a competitive 209 all out from 47 overs.

Kilmarnock’s run chase started in positive fashion with openers Alun Johnstone and Alan Hill putting on 48 before Johnstone was dismissed. Muhammed Alem (38) joined Hill at the crease and took Kilmarnock to 108 before Hill fell for a well played 52. Alem soon followed and Kilmarnock collapsed as none of the middle order applied themself and gave away their wickets leaving them on 161 for 7 still requiring 49 to win.

David Horne (17) and Javaid Ashraf (12) came together to get Kilmarnock closer to the GHK total. After the removal of Horne, Pasha (12) came in and hit some lusty blows but he departed with 8 required for victory. Ashraf got Kilmarnock up to 208 but with 2 required for victory chipped the ball to the cover fielder and Kilmarnock were cruelly denied victory by a single run.

Although it was a very disappointing end to the game there were a lot of positives to be taken from the game especially the fight shown to come back with both the bat and the ball.

The 2nd x1 also started their season on Saturday against Whiteinch but a young and relatively inexperienced team were easily beaten by 98 runs.

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Season 2009

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Match report from the annual trip to Arran

13th September 2009

In positively Mediterranean conditions, an intrepid band of cricketers set sail from Ardrossan early on Sunday to take on Sannox in the annual, final fixture of the season. In no particular order the 11 warriors were Ally (Chief Podiatrist of the team), Alex, Jim, Grant, Tom, Duncan, Ollie, Jon, Chas, Chris and Matt. As usual the ritualistic tendencies were to the fore as a few seats and tables were commandeered for the pre breakfast beer and poker school. I’d just like to add at the point that “Here at Kilmarnock Cricket Club, the safety and enjoyment of our junior players is of utmost importance” and that absolutely nothing untoward happened in the presence of the CPO, 1st XI Captain and Junior Rep!!! Honest guv!!!

Ally won the poker – a whole £3.46p Which in itself was remarkable as no dross was allowed. Wonder who put in the coppers?!?! Dunc had to resort to student type and ‘borrow’ his way into the school as he had forgotten to replenish his wallet after a night out in the ‘Golden Triangle’, in Edinburgh’s high class Grassmarket. Word had it that new licensing laws had been passed especially for the trip and the Co was able to sell beer from 10am on a Sunday. Needless to say that this proved not to be the case, so we had to make do with the 30odd cans/bottles we had left. Dunc to be fair did contribute to the carry out by providing several cans he had left over from T in the Park. We only learned that they were from the event 2 years ago!! Students? Tight? I’ll let you, dear reader, make up your own mind.

To say that the gladiatorial arena of Sannox CC had undergone a remarkable transformation since last year would be seriously underplaying the matter. Pride of place was the new pavilion. A work of art in itself, nestling in the lieu of the glens – absolutely magic. However coming in a close second were the playing conditions. Always outwith the control of anyone, with the exception of the Chipmeister who is God incarnate, the weather for the first time was absolutely brilliant. No wading through torrents to get to the wicket and water skiing through a run up this year. Aleem you don’t know what you missed!

Ally, like his batting hero Ricky pointing, duly lost the toss and Killie took the field - some fielders substantiality more steady on their feet than others. As he missed the game last year, Ally thought it best to get Tom to keep wicket as the WDCU couldn’t handle any more hassle this season. Athletic, awe-inspiring and Gilchrist like, were just a few of the observations Tom made about his own keeping. Suffice to say this earner him the moniker not of FIGJAM but FIGITY – F**k I’m Great, I’ll Tell You.

All bowlers stuck to the task and dismissed Sannox for 34 in 28 overs. It would have been 29 however a last wicket partnership of 5 in 11 overs, carried Sannox through. Mention has to be made of the courage of the Sannox batsmen and no doubt I’ll mention it again, however they all got stuck in and although 34 obviously wasn’t the best, they never flinched from sustained spells of pace from both Dunc and Chris where the ball reared viciously peppering the batsmen on hands, chests and very amusingly the box – ouch! Killie knocked the runs off in 4.2 overs. Chief architect of the run chase was FIGITY, who in all honesty batted very well indeed. He hit the ball very hard and cleared the boundary on several occasion – a top knock.

With the prospect of getting absolutely bladdered, the correct decision was taken to play a 15 overs a-side match. A mixture of beer, hot weather, lack of sleep and some tremendous catching by the Sannox team led Killie to be in the slightly precarious position of 30odd for 8 wickets with only 4 overs left. Step forward FIGITY. Having spat his dummy out because Ally didn’t let him open up again, when he got the chance to bat again, he didn’t disappoint and enjoyed a 40 odd partnership with the said Ally. Again he hit the ball very hard however the champagne shots of the innings, were played by Ally, who somehow managed to clip 2 fours all along the ground to the midwicket boundary. A remarkable feat.

So with 75 to get, would Sannox be able to push Killie? The answer was yes and no. For a long while they were in the game however in the end, they finished 18 runs or so light. Both Dunc and Chris bowled with real fire again and although the Sannox batsmen’s courage could not be faulted, they couldn’t lay much of a bat on the ball and succumbed to scoreboard pressure. Unfortunately main Sannox batsman Johnny was struck a severe blow on the temple when he played far too soon at a Chris delivery, missed and was sconed. He did return, helmeted, latter on in the innings however when he was out, the Sannox innings died away.

With all the beer gone, the players were transported to the Ormidale Hotel for most post match swally. A great time was had by all and another impromptu game was held in the car park. Needless to say Tom batted again and was, no doubt, not out again. Sorry Tom but these runs don’t count towards the averages. The walk back to the ferry was memorable and went to show how much common sense Podiatrists and law students have. Both Ally and Duncan were regaling Ollie and Alex about how stupid the fairer sex were and how easy it was to fool them. Dunc chipped in with the comment that the sea front in Brodick was the widest pavement he had walked on. Jim suggested that the pavement was as wide because it was used as an airstrip for practicing Lancaster bombers during the 2nd world war. Astonishingly both Dunc and Pod were amazed at this piece of information. Dear reader I’ll leave it up to you whether this was factual or not.

A great day’s cricket, played in the right spirit was just the way to finish off the season, which has at times been plagued by silliness between teams and resulted in the WDCU disciplinary committee going into over time.

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Match report from game against Garscube on 22nd August 2009; Kilmarnock 2nd XI 58 all out lost to Garscube 158 for 8

It was a disappointing finish to the Kilmarnock 1st XI’s season as the final two games of the season were washed out. No play was possible for any of the clubs teams last week as the rain had left the square under water for several days and although Friday’s sunshine brought a glimmer of hope that the season finale against Active Life could have been played, overnight rain soon extinguished these hopes. It has been an up and down season once again for Kilmarnock and the side have finished up fourth in the Western District Cricket Union Division 3. Killie must now wait for the finalisation of the league administration process before they learn their fate for next season.

Kirkstyle managed to dodge the bad weather this weekend as they travelled to play Garscube in a WDCU Division 4 encounter. As the home-side were sitting second bottom of the table, Killie were hoping that they could repeat some of the good form they have shown of late and cement their position in the top half of the table. Things started off well as the hosts were restricted to 158 for 8 from their 50 overs with M Azeem picking up four wickets and Captain David Nimbley picking up three. This was a very gettable total on the artificial wicket but with a weakened side it was going to require some batsmen to put their heads down and dig in. In reply Kirkstyle were never in the game as they were dismissed for a measly 58 runs. This was the teams lowest total of the season and they now have a couple of games left to finish the season on a high note.

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Match report from game against Torrance House on 8th August 2009

Kilmarnock 265 for 8 gained a winning draw against Torrance House 172 for 7

Kilmarnock travelled to East Kilbride this week to take on Torrance House in a crucial Division 3 encounter. With a near full strength batting line up present, Killie captain Alistair Smith was delighted when he lost the toss and was asked to bat first on a very good wicket. Having totalled up a massive 298 for 6 against the same side earlier in the season Kilmarnock were confident of posting a big total. The openers got off to a great start as Alan Hill (30) and Alun Johnstone (15) put on 65 for the first wicket. The introduction of A Meikle (four for 37) proved a key move as three wickets fell for only one run to give Torrance House hope of dismissing Killie cheaply. However, Zeeshant Saeed (56) looked in great touch once again as he put on 84 for the fifth wicket with Richard Laidlaw (38). After Saeed fell in the 39th over, Tom McFadzean (36) and Laidlaw provided some fireworks with a partnership of 65 from just eight overs. One of these saw the pair take 20 runs off opening bowler A Kampman with Laidlaw hitting consecutive fours before McFadzean lofted one into the car park. Extras added a further 53 runs to the total as Killie posted a mammoth 265 for 8 from their 50 overs.

Torrance House got off to the worst possible start as McFadzean (one for 26) dismissed Palferman with his fourth ball as the opening bowlers strangled the top order. The hosts then slipped to 28 for three, then 53 for four as they opted to bat out the overs instead of going after the win. A McDougal (62) made Kilmarnock pay after he was dropped early in his innings as he and A Meikle (40) put on 89 for the fifth wicket. Captain Alistair Smith (three for 24) eventually dismissed the pair but with only a few overs left it was a little bit too late to take all ten wickets. Torrance House closed their innings on 172 for seven, giving Kilmarnock 20 points out of a possible 25.

This was another dominant display from Kilmarnock against a team who never looked interested in chasing down their target. However, Killie once again are left frustrated by missed chances in the field which have cost them gaining a maximum 25 points.

The 2nd XI were back in action this weekend against local rivals Ardrossan. Aiming to avenge their defeat earlier in the season, Kirkstyle dominated their opponents to gain maximum points. Ardrossan batted first and amassed a total of 205 for 9 from their allocated overs as David Nimbley picked up three wickets and Oliver Raine and Saleem collected two apiece.

Kirkstyle for once batted with composure as they successfully chased down their target for the loss of six wickets with a couple of overs to spare. The innings was anchored by Jon Raine (18) as Imran (52 not out), Saleem (30) and Arif (28) all chipped in to take the home-side to a valuable win.

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Match report from game against Scotindians 1st August 2009

Kilmarnock 147 for 3 beat Scotindians 146 for 9 by 7 wickets

Kilmarnock managed to avoid the showers this weekend as they welcomed Scotindians to Kirkstyle. Thankfully the rains which had been falling all week had receded and the sun was out on Saturday morning, allowing the home-side a chance to prepare a wicket for the match. The visitors only had five men present at the scheduled start time, citing a late train as the reason, and for the second time this season they forfeited the toss. Stand in captain Scott Weir had no hesitation in deciding to field in bowler-friendly conditions, hoping the sun would dry out the wicket for their innings.

Kilmarnock started off in fine fashion as new-ball paring Tom McFadzean (three for 38) and Zubeer Pasha (one for 40) had the top order in all sorts of trouble. Pasha had the dangerous Shyam caught and mid-on before McFadzean took two quick wickets to reduce the visitors to 27 for three. The introduction of Javid Ashraf (two for 39) and Jim Hill proved a successful move as the spinners maintained the pressure on the middle order and continued to take wickets. Hill picked up three of his own in the same amount of overs, including a stunning return catch where he ran and made a full stretch dive to his left, to finish with three for 22 from his 13 overs. The re-introduction of McFadzean saw the ninth wicket fall before a last wicket partnership of 48 spoiled Kilmarnock’s mood. Bharath (18 not out) and Rajesh (38 not out) played sensibly and took advantage of loose deliveries to see their team up to a more reasonable total of 146 for nine.

After the break Killie set about their task of chasing down 147 for the win and more importantly 25 valuable points. Opener Alun Johnstone went in the second over to Kishan (two for 16) without a run being scored as a ball darted off the seam to hit his off-stump. This was the last time Scotindians celebrated for 27 overs as Zeeshant Saeed (92) and Mohammed Alem (36) put on 120 for the second wicket. The sunshine and wind seemed to have dried the wicket and outfield as the pair seemed in no trouble at all as they peppered the boundary with ease. Back to his usual position as opener, Saeed carried on his fine form from the previous week at Langloan as he totalled up 12 fours and 3 huge sixes, including a shot which nearly carried into the pavilion car park almost 100 yards from the crease. Alem fell as Killie upped the run-rate in an attempt to dodge the inevitable rain and Saeed was finally dismissed as he tried to make his way to a century. Scotindians used a total of nine bowlers as they toiled in the field before Kilmarnock strolled across the line to record a seven wicket victory.

Kilmarnock travel to East Kilbride this weekend to take on Torrance House. In the reverse fixture Killie recorded one of their biggest victories in the clubs history, so with a full strength team to pick from Captain Alistair Smith will be confident of another positive result.

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Match report from game against Langloan on 25th July 2009

Kilmarnock 1st X1 – 170 ao, lost to Langloan - 171 for 5 by 5 wkts

Kilmarnock travelled to Drumpellier this weekend in a bid to build on the positive results they have gained in the past couple of weeks. Langloan were sitting just above Killie in the league, so a good result would have seen them gain valuable ground in the fight for promotion. On a bright and sunny day Captain Alistair Smith won the toss and decided that he wanted to bat on what seemed like a decent wicket and post a total for the home-side to chase.

As the Killie innings got going, it was apparent that the wicket was very slow and proved very difficult to score on. A superb opening spell from M Aziz (four for 38) and some poor shot selections from the middle order saw the visitors lose wickets at regular intervals. A patient 38 from Zeeshant Saeed and some lower order resistance from Grant Adams (23) saw Killie scrape their way to 170 all out from 49 overs, giving Langloan a target of 171 from 51 overs. The ten deliveries lost by the batsmen and the extra over gifted to the home-side proved of crucial importance in what was a very exciting game of cricket.

The home-side got off to a steady start reaching 29 off ten overs before the first wicket fell. A superb piece of fielding from Jim Hill in the covers saw Bryson (4) run out and this marked the beginning of a 25 over spell of dominance in the field for Killie. J Ashraf (one for 29) bowled a staggering spell of spin bowling where only 19 runs fell off of his first 14 overs. However, a couple of costly chances went down in the field, including that of J Hamilton when he was on 0. He went on to score 28 and put on 97 in a vital third wicket partnership of 97 with M Aziz (78). The home-side looked to have left it too late to attack for the win as they required 100 to win from just 17 overs but Aziz had other ideas. After a patient start he smashed 6 fours and 5 sixes to get Langloan back on track. Hamilton was dismissed to a sharp catch from Smith off his own bowling and Aziz went four balls later as Tom McFadzean (one for 16) removed his off stump in his third over. Zubeer Pasha then claimed the fifth wicket and set up an entertaining finish where 12 runs were needed from three overs. Langloan scraped across the line for a five wicket victory with only a couple of overs to spare to dent Kilmarnock’s promotion hopes. They must now win the remainder of their games, three of which are to the top teams in the league, and hope other results go their way if they are to stand a chance of promotion.

The 2nd XI hosted Marress this weekend in a thrilling encounter at Kirkstyle. In the reverse fixture the Irvine side gave Killie a thrashing, so with a much improved team on display, the home-side was hoping to avenge that defeat. Batting first Killie would be hoping to post a large total, especially since they had Scott Weir and Abbas Khan in the team, both of whom have scored centuries this season. However, today was a different story as the above were dismissed without a run between them as Killie staggered to 116 all out. As usual no one seemed to stick their head down and dig in for runs.

Marress only fielded ten players on the day and this number was cut to nine as one had to leave before he had a chance to bat. So only requiring eight wickets Kilmarnock set about their task in fine fashion. Khan was in great form again with the ball and was backed up brilliantly by skipper David Nimbley. David Ingram (38) at one point looked like he would manage to get his side across the line as they limped their way to 107 before Khan bowled a perfect yorker to record another five-wicket haul and give Kilmarnock a win by nine runs. Another great result for the 2nd XI as they fight for safety in a very competitive fourth division.

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Match report from game against Glenpark on 18th July 2009

Kilmarnock 1st X1 – 138 for 6, beat Glenpark - 137 for 9 by 4 wkts

Kilmarnock dodged the showers on Saturday and travelled to Greenock to take on Glenpark in a WDCU League match on Saturday, hoping to make it 2 wins on the bounce and get right back into the hunt for promotion. With captain Alistair Smith on holiday, Jim Hill took over the reigns. With a very short boundary on one side, Hill won the toss and decided to bowl first, aiming to chase down whatever total Glenpark posted. What followed was the finest bowling and fielding display by a Kilmarnock team over the past few seasons. The bowlers really took a grip of proceedings and the back up in the fielding department was first class. Pick of the bowlers was Zubair Pasha, who continues to belie his age and returned figures of 5 for 23 in 15 overs taking his seasons league wicket haul to 31. He was at times unplayable. The other bowlers took their lead from Pasha and strangled the Glenpark innings – Aleem returned 2 for 30 in 11 overs, Imran 1 for 25 in 7 overs and Javid Ashraf 0 for 37 in 15 overs, as they crawled to 137 for 9 in their allotted 50 overs. In the field Kilmarnock were also superb with wicket keeper Zeeshand Saeed taking 2 catches and in the out field Richard Laidlaw, Allun Johnstone and Bilal Baig one apiece – Baig’s catch was possibly the highlight of the season as he dived full length in the slips to take a stunning one handed catch off the bowling of Pasha.

So with 138 to get to win Kilmarnock were confident of securing a win and 25 points. The usual opening pair of Saeed (36) and Johnstone (10) got Killie off to a great start with a partnership of 30 in 6 overs before Johnstone was bowled by McIntosh. This brought Aleem (3) to the wicket. Unfortunately he was unable to maintain his excellent batting form and departed quickly to leave Killie on 39 for 2 in the 13th over. A period of consolidation was called for and sensible batting from Saeed and Baig (24) took Killie to 68 before Saeed was out hitting a full toss to the grateful Glenpark fielder. This seemed to set something of a trend and both Baig and Hill (4) departed the same way, hitting full tosses from left arm spinner, Begley straight to a fielder. When Grant Adams (1) was out, Kilmarnock were 102 for 6. Not exactly what they had planned, but still favourites to win all the same. An unbroken partnership of 39 between Ashraf (40 no) and Pasha (13 no), eased Killie home with 13 overs to spare. Ashraf in particular played an excellent innings, keen to rotate the strike and put away the bad ball.

So another win, which takes Kilmarnock well clear in 4th place, hard on the heels of Langloan who they travel to on Saturday, where a win could take Killie above them in the league.

Unfortunately the 2ndXI couldn’t maintain their form of the past couple of matches as they went down, beaten by Hughenden in a low scoring game. Killie batted first and from being 84 for 4 could only muster 96 as a succession of batsmen played one champagne shot too many. Aerial shots may look good in practice when there are no fielders to catch the ball, however when it’s a game, it’s a different matter entirely. Top batsmen for Killie were Salman with 30 and Arif with 24. When bowling Killie also had chances to win the game, reducing Hughenden to 14 for 4 and 52 for 6, however a missed opportunity of an easy run out, which would have made it 52 for 7, enabled the home team to consolidate and pass Kilmarnock’s total with some ease.

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Match report from game against St Ninians on 11th July 2009

Kilmarnock 1st X1 – 176 all out (25 points) beat St.Ninians - 148 all out (8 points) by 28 runs.

Kilmarnock were once again on their travels as they looked to bounce back from last weeks’ disappointing result at Shawholm. Kilmarnock won the toss and on a sunny day with a flat wicket captain Alistair Smith had no hesitation in batting first.

The Kilmarnock innings started well but lost openers Zeeshand Saeed (16) and Alun Johnstone (10) in quick succession which brought Mohammed Alem and Bilal Baig to the crease. Alem has been in good form all season and this continued today with another quickfire 32 but with his dismissal Kilmarnock slipped from 76 for 2 to 108 for 6. This brought Smith (19) to the crease and he and Baig started to salvage the innings but when Baig went for a well made 46 and Smith soon followed Kilmarnock stuttered to 176 all out from 40 overs.

Although this was a below par batting performance given the conditions, Kilmarnock were still confident given the bowling line-up they had. Zubeer Pasha got the early breakthrough Kilmarnock were looking for but Bonner and Birch (20) were threatening to take the game away from them with a stand of 45 but a good low catch from Smith removed the latter.

This wicket saw a clatter of wickets as Alem and Javaid Ashraf picked up 2 wickets a piece to swing the game back in favour of Kilmarnock. While Bonner was there though St.Ninians still had a chance and it looked like he had found an able advisory in Haggo but the re-introduction of Pasha finally settled the game for Kilmarnock as he removed Hagg, Calderwood and the impressive Bonner for 78 to end the game with fantastic figures of 5 for 33 from his 15 overs.

St.Ninians were eventually dismissed for 148 to give Kilmarnock an important 28 run victory that they will be looking to build upon next weekend at Glenpark.

The 2nd X1 played host to Hamilton at the weekend looking to build on their impressive win against Cavaliers the week before. Kilmarnock batted first and lost both openers cheaply but Junaid Hussain and Mohammed Arif steadied the ship with 20 runs apiece but the fireworks were just about to start. Abbas Khan came to the crease at number five and played a magnificent innings that contained 8 fours and a staggering 10 sixes. When he departed his incredible innings of 119 had almost single-handedly propelled up to 218 all out from 39 overs.

This gave Kilmarnock a great chance to pick up their second consecutive victory but they knew Hamilton would be dangerous with some explosive batsmen of their own. Captain Nimbley opened the bowling with himself and batting hero Khan. Nimbley picked up one wicket and Khan backed his batting display up with a wonderful spell of bowling to end with 5 wickets from his 15 overs. Kilmarnock didn’t have it all their own way as Afzal hit a brilliant 103 but fortunately for Kilmarnock nobody supported him and with the introduction of Mohammed Salem who took 4 wickets the Hamilton innings was brought to a close and they fell 44 runs short.

This was another great performance and result for the 2nd X1 and they will be looking to make it 3 wins in a row at Hughenden.

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Match report from game against Shawholm on 4th July 2009

Shawholm - 237 for 5 beat Kilmarnock 1st X1 - 119 all out by 118 runs.

Kilmarnock travelled to Shawholm on Saturday with realisation that they needed to start winning games if they were to achieve their target of promotion. Injuries and holidays had again taken there toil but Kilmarnock travelled in hope after easily defeating the same side at the beginning of the season.

On winning the toss Kilmarnock captain Alistair Smith asked Shawholm to bat first to take full advantage of the good bowling conditions. Unfortunately for captain Smith and his side the early breakthrough never came and the young Shawholm openers’ Young (54) and Kayani (96) put on 142 in 34 overs to build a perfect platform for the rest of their team.

A couple of important catches went down and this cost Kilmarnock dear as the batsmen that followed did not seem to be of the standard of the two openers. Although Kilmarnock fought back well towards the innings Shawholm still managed to post a very creditable 237 for 5 on what had proved a difficult wicket to bat on.

Given the fast outfield and the improving batting conditions Kilmarnock still went out full of confidence that they could chase down the total and claim the full 25 points. It soon became clear that the Kilmarnock batsmen were not up for the fight and a series of rash shots and poor mistakes lead Kilmarnock to capitulate to 70 for 8. Only a quickfire 31 from Mark Coleman and a fighting 14 not out from Imran Butt finally saw Kilmarnock limp to 119 all out. This was another disappointing result for Kilmarnock and has left their hopes of promotion hanging by a thread.

The 2nd X1 hosted, second in the table, Cavaliers on Saturday knowing they were in for a hard game. Kilmarnock batted first and there were contributions all down the order mainly from Mohammed Arif (26) , Mujahid Azeem (25) and a superb 37 from Balaji Subramanian got Kilmarnock up to a very respectable 222 for 8.

This gave Captain David Nimbley a great chance to get the 25 points required to get their season back on track. Kilmarnock were to take full advantage of this opportunity as Jim Hill took 4 wickets from his 12 overs and he was supported by Abbas Khan and Mohammed Salem who both took 2 wickets.

In the end Kilmarnock bowled Cavaliers all out for 149 for a thoroughly convincing 73 run victory.

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Match report from game against GHK Strathclyde on 27th June 2009

Kilmarnock 233 for 7 (20 points) gained a winning draw against GHK Strathclyde 170 for 8 (6 points)

Kilmarnock had an impressive start to the second half of their season as they gained a winning draw against GHK at Kirkstyle. Looking to bounce back from a few poor performances, the home-side were by far the better team on a day where a couple of key moments stopped them from gaining the full 25 points.

Having won the toss, stand in captain Tom McFadzean decided that he wanted to bat first on a very flat wicket. Killie made steady progress in the first half of their innings by reaching 110 for one after 25 overs, with Alun Johnstone (38) and Mohammed Alem (55) both looking in fine form once again. The pair put on 116 for the second wicket before the home-side collapsed from 137 for one to 146 for five. GHK bowlers Simon Newman (3 for 50) and G Fairhurst (3 for 51) at one point looked like they were taking the game away from Killie but 33 from McFadzean and 31 from Zubeer Pasha steered the hosts to 233 for seven from their allocated overs to gain maximum batting points.

The GHK innings got off to a horrible start as the Killie opening bowlers Zubeer Pasha (2 for 42) and Abass (2 for 28) ripped the top order to pieces. A small partnership of 24 for the fifth wicket was soon broken by Alun Johnstone (1 for 24) as Killie looked on course for victory having reduced the visitors to 45 for 5. However I Thomson (36) and P Chilkuri (73) then added 112 for the sixth wicket from 25 overs to take away the chance of Killie bowling GHK out. Thomson should have been out in the 36th over, caught behind off Pasha, but he refused to walk and the young GHK umpire claimed not to have heard anything leaving the Kilmarnock players bemused. As the pair fell in the final couple of overs and the GHK tail was exposed it was clear that if the partnership had been broken earlier Killie could have easily bowled them out. A couple of sharp stumpings from Mark Colman helped Mohammed Alem record figures of 3 for 42 and cap off another impressive all round performance.

The 2nd XI had a less than enjoyable game away at Moorcroft on Saturday. Having been asked to bat first Kirkstyle posted their highest total of the season so far as Juliad (54), Saleem (50) and Paul Ruddock (46) all chipped in to lead them to 238 all out from their 50 overs. This total should have been closer to the 300 mark as the running between the wickets really let the away-side down. In response Moorcroft strolled to their target by hitting 240 for 3 from just 40 overs as the Kirkstyle bowlers struggled for rhythm.

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Match report from game against Active Life on 20th June June 2009

Kilmarnock 144 ao lost to Active Life 311 for 2 dec by 167 runs

It was a bad weekend for Kilmarnock cricket club as the 1st XI lost in the league on Saturday and in the Small Clubs Cup on Sunday.

Saturday saw Killie travel to Springburn Park for the second consecutive week to play Active Life Cricket Club. The home-side were sitting comfortably at the top of the league, having won four out of five games so far. Captain Alistair Smith won the toss and decided that the best opportunity to gain points from the match was to bowl first. Active Life got off to a flying start by putting on 62 for the first wicket before Smith (1 for 28) removed opener Raj for 23. Fizan (75) was the next wicket to fall with the score on 218 as the Killie bowlers struggled to come to terms with bowling on the artificial wicket against a very aggressive batting side. No more wickets fell in the innings as Wajid (110 not out) and Fazal (59 not out) took Active Life to 311 for 2, before declaring after just 42 overs.

The Kilmarnock innings got off to the worst possible start as Rasim (2 for 15) removed both Smith and the in form Alem without scoring. After this Kilmarnock struggled as batsmen gifted their wickets away to some very average bowling and were dismissed for 144 to give Active Life a 167 run victory. Alun Johnstone (44) and Zubeer Pasha (35) were the top scorers for the away-side and Wajid capped his man of the match performance by taking 4 for 16 in his short bowling spell.

At the half way stage in the season, Kilmarnock have won four out of eight games in the league. This is disappointing as they started off by winning the first three. Hopefully a visit by GHK Strathclyde to Kirkstyle on Saturday will allow the 1st XI to get back to winning ways.

The 2nd XI entertained Garscube at Kirkstyle on Saturday in a match which was threatened by overnight rain. Batting first the visitors posted 165 for 8 off their 50 overs with Mohammed Azeem picking up two wickets. Kirkstyle managed to secure a losing draw by batting out the overs to finish on 123 for 9 with Jon Raine finishing 17 not out. Captain David Nimbley scored 32 opening the batting and continues his fine from with both bat and ball. Next week the 2nd XI travel to play Moorcroft as they aim to score some wins in the second half of the season.

On Sunday Kilmarnock travelled to Dumfries to play St Michaels in the Small Clubs Cup quarter final. Having arrived at the ground in the rain, Captain Alistair Smith was hoping to win the toss. However, this was not to be and Kilmarnock were asked to bat on a used and uneven wicket. Having struggled at the start Mohammed Alem (29) and Scott Weir (54) put on 69 for the third wicket from just 10 overs. Chris Brockwell (4 for 10) and F Shah (3 for 14) did the damage with the ball as Tom McFadzean (20) was the only other batsmen to reach double figures and Killie were dismissed for just 135. St Michaels’ innings didn’t get off to the best of starts as McFadzean removed two batsmen with the score on just 18. This brought the home-sides overseas amateur, P Sullivan, to the crease. He and opening batsmen Ahsunal (18 not out) then produced an 88 run partnership to take them to within touching distance of the win. McFadzean came back on to bowl and removed Sullivan for 69 with a well directed yorker. The home-side made it to their target with almost 20 overs to spare for a convincing 7 wicket win. St Michaels were the best team on the day but with Kilmarnock missing a large number of players for this weekends games, who knows how far they could have gone with a full strength team.

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Match report from game against Victoria on 13th June 2009

Kilmarnock 238 for 8 lost to Victoria 244 for 2 by 8 wickets

On Saturday Kilmarnock travelled to Springburn Park to play Victoria. Before the match the two teams were very close in the league, with only four percentage points separating them. Having lost the toss stand in captain Scott Weir was asked to bat first on the artificial wicket. Killie made steady progress throughout their innings, with several players getting starts. Mohammed Alem (62) scored yet another half-century, while Jim Hill (40), Scott Weir (39) and Zeeshant Saeed (24) all chipped in to help the visitors post 238 for 8 in their 50 overs.

The Victoria bowlers picked up wickets at crucial times and never allowed any of the Killie batsmen to go on and score a big innings. N Ali (4 for 38) and Quzi (2 for 31) returned the best figures for the home-side.

Kilmarnock started off extremely well in defending their total as they reduced Victoria to 15 for 2 with Jim Hill and Zubeer Pasha taking a wicket apiece. However, this was the end of the Killie joy as Sajin (103 not out) and Niamat (112 not out) put on an unbeaten partnership of 229 to take the home-side to an 8 wicket victory with almost 20 overs to spare.

This was an under-par performance from a weakened Kilmarnock 1st XI and they will need to do better if they wish to maintain their promotion hopes. Next week Killie travel to play Active Life.

The 2nd XI performed a bit better against Kingholm at Kirkstyle. Captain David Nimbley won the toss and decided to bat first on what looked like a good wicket. Having reached 45 without the loss of any wickets, Kirkstyle then slipped to 50 for 3 from 19 overs. This collapse brought Tom McFadzean to the crease as he aimed to steady the innings and make sure that all 50 overs were used. Kingholm maintained the pressure as M Lumb took 4 for 43 to reduce the home-side to 146 for 8 and it looked like the visitors would have about 65 overs to chase down an under-par total. However, Jon Raine (8 not out) provided McFadzean the support he needed as the pair put on an unbeaten 63 to lead Kirkstyle to 209 for 8. Tom McFadzean batted out the innings to score his maiden half-century and finish with a wonderful 93 not out. Kingholm never looked interested in chasing after the victory and appeared happy to be travelling back south with only 6 points in the bag. Saleem (2 for 23) was the most successful bowler and at one point provided Kirkstyle with some hope of bowling the visitors out. M Lumb (47 not out) batted the full 50 overs as Kingholm finished on 131 for 5 giving Kirkstyle 18 points out of a possible 25.

This impressive display will hopefully turn the 2nd XI's season around and they will aim for their first win at home to Garscube next weekend.

For a report from the Kingholm persepctive go to: http://www.saintmichaelsdumfries.com/latestnews.htm

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Match report from game against Torrance House on 6th June 2009

Kilmarnock 298 for 6 beat Torrance House 41 all out by 257 runs

Kilmarnock welcomed East Kilbride’s 2nd XI, Torrance House, to Kirkstyle on Saturday aiming to bounce back from a couple of poor league results. With almost a full squad to pick from, Captain Alistair Smith was more than confident of victory before the start of play.

Having lost the toss, Kilmarnock were inserted to bat and made a steady start in their bid to post a big total. The home-side soon had the opposition skipper regretting his decision, as most of the top order fired on a day when runs flowed freely. Opening the batting, Alun Johnstone scored a career best 40 and anchored the innings, allowing others to hit the big shots. Mohammed Alem (52) continued his form with yet another half-century and Scott Weir, coming off a night shift at his work, scored a breathtaking 107 not out to take Kilmarnock to 298 for 6 from their 50 overs. This score was our highest league score ever which shows how well we batted. Zeeshant Saeed (14), Bilal Baig (18) and Tom McFadzean (21 not out) also chipped in to show what Killie are capable of producing.

Torrance house must have thought that they would be able to get a draw out of the game having batted out 60 overs at Kirkstyle the season before. Today was a different story as Kilmarnock didn’t miss a chance in the field and produced a very professional performance. Duncan Hamilton was in tremendous form with the ball as he ripped the top order to bits, taking 4 for 11 in the process. Zubeer Pasha was his usual self taking 3 for 11 and Jim Hill was back on song as he finished with 3 for 6 from just 4.2 overs. Torrance house were dismissed for just 41 runs giving Kilmarnock a 257 run victory in what was quite possibly one of the best all-round performances they have produced in recent years.

The 2nd XI had a less satisfying result on Saturday against local rivals Ardrossan. Batting first, Ardrossan compiled a total of 209, thanks mainly to the top score of extras (52). G Walsh (47), R Marshman (39) and S Dhaliwal (34) were the top scorers with the bat, whilst David Nimbley (2 for 24) and Mohammed Azeem (2 for 27) were the main contributors with the ball.

Kirkstyle were never really in the run chase as C Thomas (6 for 45) and S Dhaliwal (4 for 21) dismissed the visitors for just 134, giving Ardrossan a 75 run victory. J Hussain (31) and J Afzal (30) showed some resistance, but the 2nd XI must start showing some of the spark from last season if they are wanting to maintain their place in division four.

Sunday saw Kilmarnock welcome Ardrossan to Kirkstyle for the small clubs cup game. Having won the toss, skipper Alistair Smith inserted the visitors to bat in the hope of dismissing them for a small total. The openers provided the away side a steady start, putting on 70 for the first wicket before Oliver Raine (1 for 11) made the breakthrough by dismissing C Lambert for 26. David Nimbley (2 for 19) and T McFadzean (2 for 29) bowled with control as the visitors were restricted to just 142 for 9 from their 45 overs. S Dhaliwal (30) and R Marshman (25) offered up some runs for Ardrossan, but after a confident start Killie were delighted at the prospect of chasing what seemed to be an under-par total. The Killie run chase got off to a flying start as Zeeshant Saeed (66 not out) and Mohammed Alem (38) put on 71 for the first wicket, from just 10 overs. The home-side never looked in any trouble as they chased down the target in under 23 overs to give themselves an eight wicket victory. Ex Kilmarnock bowler John McNair (2 for 48) took a couple of consolation wickets, but proved very expensive on his first outing as an Ardrossan player. Another very good cup win will please the captain, as he aims to lead his side towards some silverware for the first time in a decade.

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Match report from game against Scotindians on 30th May 2009

Kilmarnock 118 all out lost to Scotindians 175 all out by 57 runs

It was another disappointing game for Kilmarnock this week as they were beaten by Scotindians at Glasgow Green. Having arrived at their destination and ready to play at about quarter to one, skipper Alistair Smith was shocked when the opposition appeared to only have half a dozen players present and asked him if he had brought any stumps! League regulations state that in this case Smith wins the toss and he decided to bowl as his attack had been firing well all season.

This time the Kilmarnock attack struggled on the artificial wicket and, aided by some very strict umpiring coupled with some dubious decisions, Scotindians posted 175 all out. The stand out performances were Zubeer Pasha (3 for 44) and Duncan Hamilton (4 for 44), although some figures might have been better had the fielding and catching been more impressive. Extras were the clear top scorer for the batting side, with Sai (22), Harish (21) and Praneeth (21) being the top scores to come off the bat.

The Kilmarnock innings started quite positively reaching 50 for 1 in the twelfth over before wickets started to tumble. The home side’s excessive appealing had begun to frustrate the batsmen, when they were shouting for out even when the ball had struck the bat. It clearly worked as Prashanth (4 for 37) and Kranti (4 for 20) ripped through the Kilmarnock order giving them a 57 run victory. On two occasions it looked like the innings could have been rescued thanks to Mohammed Alem (28) and Jim Hill (24), but on this day it was not to be.

The 2nd XI had a more successful day at home to Vale of Leven as they secured a winning draw with a very young team. Kirkstyle batted first and posted a total of 163 for 5, thanks to D Nimbley and S Azeem who both scored 40. In response the away side could only respond with 141 for 6. At one point it looked like the Vale of Leven were cruising towards their target but a very impressive spell of swing bowling from D Nimbley, which included 7 maidens in a row to end the innings, provided Kirkstyle with some valuable points. Another note of success was the very good fielding provided by the junior players in the team. Alex Gibson took a couple of good catches and continues to impress with his bowling and enthusiasm to play well for his team. These displays have seen Oliver Raine and Alex, both 15, called up to the 1st XI again for their upcoming cup game.

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Small Clubs Cup - 23th May - Kilmarnock vs Sannox

Kilmarnock 214 for 4 beat Arran Sannox 132/5 by 82 runs

Sunday saw the 1st XI welcome Sannox to Kirkstyle for the Small Clubs Cup game. Captain Alistair Smith lost the toss and was inserted to bat. This proved a costly mistake as the top order looked in fine form as they looked to post a big total. The Kilmarnock innings was shaped around a majestic 106 from Mohammed Alem who seemed to carry on his fine form from the Saturday. Zeeshant Saeed (36), Tom McFadzean (22 not out), Alastair Smith (18) and Grant Adams (14 not out) all chipped in to help the home-side post a mammoth 214 for 4 from their 30 overs.

The Sannox run chase never really got started as McFadzean (1 for 6) and Alex Gibson (1 for 30) restricted the top order to just 19 for 2 from the first 8 overs. Oliver Raine picked up 2 for 21 from his 6 overs as Sannox ended their innings on 132 for 5 giving Kilmarnock an 82 run victory. The only notes of success for the away-team were Marriot (27) and J May who scored a fine 58. Oliver’s figures could have been better if Captain Smith hadn’t dropped May early in his innings. He was later put to shame by youngster Gibson who took a tremendous catch at long-on.

After disappointment on the Saturday this was a good win for a very young Kilmarnock 1st XI which featured 3 under 15 players for the second game in a row. Special mention must go to Oliver, Alex and Mohammed who played very well in all aspects of the game. Young Mohammed even should his older brother how to field properly when the Sannox batsmen decided to try and up the run rate.

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First XI - 23rd May - Kilmarnock vs Langloan

It was a busy few days for Kilmarnock this weekend which saw a total of 4 games being played. On Saturday the 1st XI unfortunately lost their 100% record as they were defeated by 30 runs at home to Langloan.

With skipper Alastair Smith absent due to university commitments, stand in captain Scott Weir won the toss and decided to field. Having bowled well all season Kilmarnock bowled well and reduced the away side to 44 for 3 after 22 overs. However, two partnerships of 50, anchored by A Stevenson (58), saw Langloan to 169 for 9 off of their 50 overs. Jim hill (3 for 46) and Zubeer Pasha (4 for 24) were in fine form yet again and provided the home-side a gettable target, after it looked like Langloan could post over 200.

The run chase got off to a great start as Zeeshant Saeed (14) and Mohammed Alem (66) put on 47 for the first wicket. Kilmarnock slumped to 69 for 3 before Jim Hill (21) and Alem took them to within 56 of their target. S Perman looked like a last ditch effort for Langloan but the youngster bowled a very good spell to take them to within touching distance of the win. He picked up 5 wickets for just 7 runs in his spell, including Hill and Alem, as Kilmarnock gifted most of their wickets to slip to their first defeat of the season.

The 2nd XI travelled to play Irvine Marress and also felt disappointment in their first complete game of the season. Marress batted first and posted a total of 155 all out, with Abdul Rahman (5 for 36) and Salem Azeem (3 for 25) being the pick of the bowlers. David Ingram top scored with 43 for the home team and his father, Mike, chipped in with 32. In response Kirkstyle were never really in the chase and were dismissed for just 80, giving Marress a comfortable 75 run victory.

Next week the 1st XI travel to play Scotindians and the 2nd XI welcome Vale of Leven to Kirkstyle.

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First XI - 16th May - Kilmarnock vs Greenock Glenpark

Kilmarnock welcomed Glenpark to Kirkstyle on Saturday and made it three wins in a row to continue their perfect start to the season. The home team have been bowling well all season, so it was no surprise that when Alistair Smith won the toss he decided to have a bowl.

In the absence of Zubeer Pasha, Jim Hill and Tom McFadzean (2 for 19) opened the bowling and quickly had the visitors in trouble at 12 for 6 with a very controlled spell. Smith was short of bowling options so as D Sharma (20) and S Sanghera (21) started to build a partnership he decided to bring himself and Bilal Baig on for a bowl. This proved a successful move as the captain took his first ever senior wicket and Baig picked up 2 for 21, including the dangerous Sanghera. Hill came back on to pick up the final wicket to finish with 4 for 15 as Glenpark were dismissed for just 70.

Kilmarnock started their innings in very poor fashion losing Z Saeed without scoring. Alan Hill (17) provided some stability but wickets continued to tumble, with Sanghera picking up 5 for 39 during his spell. McFadzean arrived at the crease with the score on 28 for 4 and was soon joined by Smith after 2 wickets fell in consecutive deliveries. The pair steadied the innings and took the home team to within 2 runs of victory with a vital partnership of 32. McFadzean finally fell for 24 but Smith got his team over the line to finish 10 not out and record a 3 wicket victory.

This was a very important win for Kilmarnock as they maintain their quest for promotion. Next week the 1st XI welcome Langloan to Kirkstyle and the 2nd XI travel to play local rivals Marress.

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First XI - 2nd May - Kilmarnock vs Shawholm

Western Union division 3- Kilmarnock 1st X1 149 all out beat Shawholm 38 all out by 111 runs.

Week two of the season saw Kilmarnock entertain Shawholm looking to build on their convincing victory in week one. There were a couple of changes from the previous week due to work commitments which allowed new skipper to take to the field for his first game as full time captain. Due to the beautiful Scottish weather the wicket was well, very damp and the game looked in danger of being called off on the Friday but with the sun out on the Saturday the game was able to go ahead.

After losing the toss Kilmarnock were asked to bat first and last weeks’ hero Zeeshand Saeed went out to open the batting again with Alun Johnstone. Unfortunately there were not the same fireworks as last week as Kilmarnock quickly found themselves in trouble at 48 for 4 with Saeed, Johnstone, Baig and Smith all back in the pavilion. This brought last years’ captain Alan Hill to the crease to join Vice-captain Scott Weir. Both batted well on the tricky surface and some very poor catching allowed the pair to put on 51 to get Kilmarnock back into the game. Hill departed for 18 and although Weir (49) and Mohammed Alem (18) were out soon after a late 29 from Jim Hill allowed Kilmarnock to get up to a very defendable 149 all out.

Kilmarnock knew that as long as they held their chances that149 was enough on this wicket. Zubeer Pasha and Jim Hill opened the bowling and had a field day using their experience to terrorise the opposition. The pair soon had Showholms’ batting line-up in pieces at 13 for 5 with the wickets shared. They quickly found themselves at 21 for 6 and then 7 as Hill found himself on a hat-trick for a second time. Hill ended up with 5 wickets for 11 off of his 10 overs and his opening partner ended up with 2 for 10 from his 7 overs.

Although the damage had been done Sajjad and Young began to frustrate the Kilmarnock attack and it took the introduction of Bilal Baig to finally end the game. Baig was brought on to try something different and it worked first ball and also second ball. Unfortunately for the third time that day a hat-trick was not forthcoming but the inning was all over a couple of overs later as Baig bowled Sharzaad to end up with the fantastic figures of 3 wickets for the loss of only 1 run from 1.4 overs.

Showholm ended up being dismissed for 38 to give Kilmarnock a convincing 111 run victory. This on the back of last weekends’ fine victory over GHK gives Kilmarnock hope that their target of promotion can be achieved.

Unfortunately the 2nd X1 game was cancelled due to groundwork where they were due to play but hopefully this game can be re-arranged for later in the season while the Under 15s first game of the season was a victim of the weather on Friday night.

Outdoor senior training starts this Wednesday at 7 o’clock at the Kilmarnock Academy playing for anybody interested in coming back to the game or even if they want to try it for the first time.

First XI - 25th April - GHK / Srath v Kilmarnock

Kilmarnock 1st XI opened up their season with an impressive win away at GHK. On a bright and sunny day the home captain won the toss and decided his team would bat first on the artificial wicket.

Kilmarnock travelled without a few key players, including newly appointed captain Alistair Smith. Stand in skipper Tom McFadzean took the new ball along with Zubeer Pasha and restricted the batsmen to 28 for 1 from the first 14 overs with some very controlled bowling. The introduction of Jim Hill proved a key move as he removed 3 of the top order to leave them reeling at 65 for 4 at the half-way stage. The reintroduction of Pasha proved successful as he and Hill reduced the home side to 101 for 8 taking 4 for 42 and 4 for 41 respectively. A quick-fire 34 from I Hussain and a patient 36 from I Thomson provided the only resistance for GHK before McFadzean (2 for 34) brought himself back on to finish off the tail and set Kilmarnock a target of 154.

Missing a few key batsmen, the Kilmarnock openers needed to get off to a good start. Man of the match Zeeshant Saeed provided this with a very impressive 66 from just 30 balls. Out of just 16 scoring shots, Saeed hit 10 fours and 4 sixes. GHK captain Simon Newman (2 for 42) picked up a couple of wickets, although this did not slow the batting side with Mohammed Alem and Bilal Balig both scoring 31 not out to take Kilmarnock to their target from just 19.2 overs for an 8 wicket win.

Hopefully this performance with a slightly weaker side will give Kilmarnock great confidence for their new campaign in WDCU Division 3. Next week will see Killie host Shawholm at Kirkstyle.

The Kilmarnock 2nd XI had a very frustrating day at home as their match against Moorcroft was abandoned due to a thunderstorm. The visitors batted first and made it to 126 for 5 before the heavens opened. Next week they travel to play Cavaliers, where they aim to get their season off to a winning start.

So as the 1st XI bounced home from Glasgow with a touch of sunburn, the 2nd XI trudged home disappointed that their day had been ruined by the typical Scottish weather!

This Friday will also see the under 15s open their season against local rivals Ayr. With a few of the juniors beginning to make their mark in the 2nd XI, hopefully they can cause a few upsets this season.

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Season 2008

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Arran 2008

Kilmarnock went sailing last Sunday for the usual end of season fixture at Sannox on the Isle of Arran. An early morning start saw the protagonists: - Jim, Chippy, birthday boy Dunc, Nibs, Aleem, Zeeshers, Altsham, Les and the Big Chief, catch the first ferry from Ardrossan. Jon and Ollie had decided to brave the duelling banjo’s and camped out on the island the night before. The usual pre match warm up was quickly underway as Nibs broke out the beer and cards for Texas Hold’em over breakfast. Although the weather was fair when we left, pretty soon afterwards it started pissing, so much so that we passed Noah heading to Millport.

When we arrived at the ground – once voted in the top 5 most picturesque grounds in the world – we had to wait for a while until the lifeboat had made a sweep of the ground to make sure no one was in danger. The Raine clan were already in residence in the groovy ‘Mystery Machine’, which according to Jon can sleep up to 4 on the double bed inside. Apparently he’s selling video’s of this escapade at the Barras every Sunday morning. Duncan ordered 2. The Chip meister remarked how similar the ground looked to the loch he had been fishing in the previous day. Incidentally do you know how Chippy gets away with fishing one day and a trip away the next? Apparently when his alarm went of at 6am the previous day he turned to Katherine and whispered “Morning darling, fishing or sex?” To which Katherine replied “Remember your waders”.

Aleem, Zeeshers and Altsham, didn’t really know what to make of it – the rain, the flooded wicket or the anti-personnel mines kindly left by the Sannox regiment of the Scottish Blackface – a type of sheep for the uninitiated.

Jim lost the toss and Killie found themselves inserted in the shallow end of the pool/wicket. Birthday boy opened the innings with Zeeshers and as usual they sought to put the Sannox attack to the sword. In fact Dunc was keen to play the blunted foil role to Zeeshers, Dartanian flashing blade. Things were going along swimmingly until Zeeshers whilst attempting an all run 2, was controversially given run out by Jim for not grounding his bat. Although the technology exists for a referral back to the 3rd umpire Jim was confident enough to raise his finger. This brought Altsham to the wicket. A well executed square cut for 1 off his first ball raised hopes that the assembled throng would be in for a run fest. However in his next offer he not so much nicked, but bloody battered the cover off it, to the wicket keeper and stood. Perhaps he thought umpire Jim wouldn’t have heard anything due to the rain battering down, however that man has ears like a cat – an old and cuddly cat but none the less, out is out. Chippy was next in. Dressed like an extra from ‘Bill & Ben the Movie’. He started out like a misfiring Lada and then it went down hill. Perhaps trying to emulate Altsham’s scoring shot he took a leg guard, stepped away and tried to cut Sannox captain Chris off his leg stump. 1 guess to what happened next … Yip he was comprehensively bowled. Typical Chippy though it wasn’t his fault, it never is his fault. The execution of the shot was perfect however he hadn’t taken into account the fact that “the rain would affect the trajectory of the ball and anyway we shouldn’t be playing in these conditions”. Chippy, FFS, the guy bowls leg spin, where did you think the ball was going to go? If Chips ever thinks of a career change he really should think about becoming a solicitor as he talks the biggest lot of pish since the last time he tries to justify getting out or dropping a catch. All the while Dunc was plodding along sedately. He was joined by Ollie and together they sought to up the scoring rate. A brief stoppage for rain(!!!!!!) mean’t that the game was reduced to 30 overs a-side. Ollie fell trying to hit out and birthday boy was out for 49. Given the underfoot conditions an admirable display and no doubt when he attends winter nets at Grange, he’ll regale them with this tale. Batsmen came and went Aleem running himself out just to get back under the brolly, Jim being caught behind, although not before hitting a 6, which unfortunately domed Mr and Mrs McWatt’s car. Never has Les moved so fast to check the damage, however he copped an earful from a resplendent Moira, in matching ensemble with wellies, as it was he who had parked the car in the line of fire. Nibs and the Chief were the 2 not out batsmen as Killie posted 119 off their 30 overs. Davy in fact had the teams in stitches as he slid on his knees for 16 yards, whilst taking a run.

No lunch was taken as we wanted to take advantage of the rain receding to a downpour. The Sannox innings was very much a portrait of the conditions as they slipped and slided to be bowled out for 50 odd. The fact that they reached 50 was in no small part due to the contribution of Chippy behind the stumps. When he wasn’t holding his box in place as his jock strap was slipping down, he was dropping catches. 8 all told . To be fair none of the drops were his fault – aye right. Highlight of the fielding had to be Nibs at mid wicket who didn’t know whether to catch the ball or avoid serious injury as the bat hurtled towards him at a serious rate of knots.

Nothing should be detracted from the day. The game itself was played in excellent spirit between the 2 teams, which shouldn’t really come a much of a surprise as FIG JAM, aka beamer McFadzean, was away on holiday so there would be no need of local constabulary intervention. We were dropped off at the pub in Brodick and talk was rife about organising a weekend golf/cricket trip next year. Lets hope the weather is a tad better!!! Also we captured the rarest of events, an event which has never been captured before – Chippy at the bar. Although we have been offered serious money by various publications – The Tory Weekly to name but one, we haven’t sold out and the photo can be found below.

Unfortunately we were joined on the return journey by Arran’s answer to Robo Cop, who preceded to part various members of the team from their cash. However tomorrow is another, drier, day!!!

(please note that any similarity to persons living or dead, is entirely intentional)

Courtesy of Arran Voice - 'Rain did not stop play

Tim Pomeroy writes about an extremely wet cricket match between Sannox and Kilmarnock .

On Sunday Kilmarnock CC travelled to Arran to play Sannox CC in what looks like their penultimate game of this disappointing season. In rain of variable heaviness, Kilmarnock batted in what must be some of the worst conditions seen by either side.

Saheed and Hamilton looked determined from the off until, with the score on 54, the former misjudged the speed of a well-aimed return and was run out. Conditions dictating accuracy rather than speed, Hamilton ’s succeeding partners fell to a cocktail of sound bowling from Dunn and Brookes, both coming off unaccustomed two pace run ups. Hamilton , by this time plainly the danger man, fell to a running catch by Pomeroy off Brookes’ bowling. Play was halted for twenty minutes during a particularly heavy bout of rain, and with score over 100, Kilmarnock captain and friend of Sannox CC Jim Hill came to the crease in steadily worsening weather. He rode his luck, sending several shots skyward before being caught behind off Brookes. Both creases were quickly becoming a mire with the white lines gone, and the first bag of sawdust exhausted. Bowlers were slipping on the follow-through, fielders were skidding on bottoms and more than once a bat was seen to fly to mid on as it slipped from the hands of the batsmen. It was cricket, Jim, but not as we know it. Kilmarnock finished their 30 overs on 119 for 7.

Deciding against a lunch break and prospect of sodden sandwiches, Sannox went straight into bat. Pomeroy was run out in the second over. Mason fell LBW shortly afterwards. Beardsley looked determined at the shot but weak running between the stumps. He tried to make a fight of it but he too was LBW Doss for 9. When Brookes came and went for 1 and Dunn sloshed out and back for 4 a rout seemed on the cards. However Jonathan May coming in at number 6 dug in (in a Paschendale sort of way) and set about restoring some Sannox dignity. He achieved this by making 25, all in singles. Indeed, of the final Arran total of 54 all out, all were singles except two twos and one four, the four courtesy of captain Marriott, whose partnership with May seemed to make the seemingly impossible briefly possible. The final overs descended into farce with most of Kilmarnock looking more as if they had played rugby than cricket, all the players being drenched through and muddy. Sannox’s Colin Haggarty returned after dismissal looking as if he had been trials racing. The Sannox tail failed to wag with Jenks, Carey and Gourlay all paddling home for one run. Rain did not stop play but perhaps should have.

The Ormidale at four o’clock was a warm and welcome refuge for two plucky teams who for a few hours redefined what it is to be committed to cricket. Thanks to Arran Property for continued sponsorship and special thanks to Catherine Jenks for braving the elements to score for the home side. Next Saturday the Arran lads take part in the Oban six-a-sides away in Oban. The next home match is on Sunday 7th against Ardrossan.'

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First XI - 23rd August - Kilmarnock 1st X1 80 all out (1 point) lost to Weirs 2nd X1 82 for 2 (25 points)

Kilmarnock 1st X1s season ended on a very disappointing note as they were soundly beaten by Weirs and finished in an extremely disappointing 5th place in the league. Kilmarnock had hoped to go straight back to division two after last year’s relegation but some poor performances and the intervention of the ‘great Scottish weather’ at unfortunate times in the season left the team languishing in mid-table.

After a week of rain the game looked in serious doubt on the Thursday evening when a re-arranged under 15s game was put off but some nice weather on Friday and Saturday meant the game could go ahead. Unfortunately for stand-in captain Alistair Smith the toss was always going to be vital and so it proved as Kilmarnock were asked to bat first.

On a day when very few teams in the Western Union mustered 100 runs batting first it was going to be very difficult and that is how it turned out as a weakened Kilmarnock team lost wickets at regular intervals.

The only players to make any impact on the slow wicket were Bilal Baig (14) who grafted away for a while before being bowled and Fraser Gall who batted extremely well for his 24. Unfortunately for Kilmarnock neither could go on to try and provide a defendable total and the team were eventually bowled out 80.

This was probably about 30 or 40 runs short of what might have been a defendable total but it was not to be as Weirs chased down the total for the loss of only two wickets. Although the batsmen had several large slices of luck it would probably not have made a difference to the final outcome.

This was a disappointing end to a disappointing season for Kilmarnock and it is just hoped that next season proves to be more successful.

Second XI - 23rd August - Vale of Leven 202 for 2 (17 points) drew with Kilmarnock 2nd X1 197 for 9 (7 points)

The 2nd X1 were also in action this weekend and contributed to an extremely exciting encounter. Kilmarnock travelled to Vale of Leven to play their penultimate game of the season.

Vale of Leven batted first and Kilmarnock knew if they could get through their first three batsmen they would have a great chance and although Mujahid Azeem removed Dalby for 10 it was to be the last wicket for a while. Opener Lawrence and number 3 Bates produced a well paced partnership, scoring 94 not out and 79 respectably. Azeem also removed Bates but that was all the wickets that fell as Vale of Leven ended on 202 for 2 from their 50 overs.

Kilmarnock knew they would have to get off to a good solid start and although they lost regular wickets a belligerent 96 from opener Umar Dar kept them in the game. When he was caught four short of his century Kilmarnock looked in a bit of trouble but 21from Guyan and 24 not out from Roy left Kilmarnock needing 8 runs to win off of the last over with only 1 wicket remaining. Unfortunately for Kilmarnock with the light fading they could not quite get over the line and ended up on 197 for 9.

This was a very credible performance from the 2nd X1 as there were a number of absentees. With one game remaining Kilmarnock are sitting in joint fourth place in the fourth division and have had a pretty successful season.

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First XI - 2nd August - Kilmarnock v Cavaliers

Kilmarnock hosted Cavaliers this week hoping to continue their recent good form. Despite the horrendous weather at the end of the week the wicket at Kilmarnock dried out sufficiently for the game to start after a short delay.

Kilmarnock lost the toss but were surprisingly asked to field on the damp wicket and it was a mistake the Cavaliers captain was to regret. Kilmarnock tore through the Cavaliers batting line-up with Tom McFadzean (1 for 28) taking a wicket in the first over then Zubeer Pasha picked up a wicket with his second ball. Pasha continued his tremendous form and ended up with figures of 8 over’s 3 maidens 4 wickets for 11 runs which included a spell where he bowled 19 balls in a row without giving away a run while taking 3 wickets.

Captain Alistair Smith then made a double change and brought on youngsters Duncan Hamilton and Mujahid Azeem. Both bowlers backed up the captains confidence by taking two wickets apiece to skittle Cavaliers for 60.

One of Azeems wickets coming in spectacular circumstances when Niall Lochrie, who had dropped the simplest catch anybody on the park had ever seen earlier on in the innings, had the ball chipped over his head so proceeded to sprint backwards with the wind pushing the ball out of his reach and the sun in his eye and reach up grasp the ball in his left hand as he was falling to the ground.

This stunning piece of fielding was a shock for everyone who witnessed it but it summed up the display in the field where everything went right for Kilmarnock. Now all that was required was for the batsmen to knock off the runs.

Zeeshand Saeed and Alun Johnstone went out to open the batting and although Saeed departed for a quickfire 31, Johnstone and Ahtsham Dost remained unbeaten on 6 and 13 respectively.

Kilmarnock have now won their last three league games and are now back in the hunt for promotion.

Second XI - 3rd August - Cumbernauld v Kirkstlye

The 2nd X1 also had a tremendous result this weekend with another 9 wicket victory on Sunday. After winning the toss stand in skipper Les McWatt put Cumbernauld in to bat and they were quickly dispatched for 120.

Zeeshand Saeed who was playing his second game in two days departed for 11 when he was caught on the boundrey by 11 year old Kilmarnock player Heider Dost who was fielding as Cumbernauld were short of player.

It was left up to brothers Alem (47 not out) and Salem Mohammed (35 not out) to take Kilmarnock to victory. Although the running was at times a bit laboured both players batted extremely well and saw Kilmarnock home with 9 wickets in hand.

This was another impressive result for the 2nd X1 and it cements their place in the upper half of the league.

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First XI - 26th July - Kilmarnock v Motherwell

Kilmarnock travelled to Motherwell this week in a bid to build on their hard fought victory against GHK the previous week. After winning the toss on a poor but hard wicket, captain Jim Hill had no hesitation in asking the home side to bat. The opening attack of Tom McFadzean and Zubair Pasha soon had Motherwell in serious trouble when they removed 5 batsmen with only 10 runs on the board. For once Killie didn’t let their good start slip away as veteran Pasha continued to take wickets, even after they lost wicket-keeper Horne to a suspected broken thumb as he struggled to catch a late moving ball. Some excellent fielding and catching saw Motherwell bowled out for just 51 runs off 18.3 overs, with McFadzean finishing with 3 wickets for 15 runs and Pasha ending with a quite staggering 7 wickets for just 6 runs.

A buoyant Killie set about the run chase in style as opener Zeeshand Saeed smashed 27 before being bowled by S Young. The away side never looked in trouble as they chased the target down off just 12.3 overs for 3 wickets down, with Scott Weir hitting the winning runs with a huge six over extra cover. S Young was the pick of the Motherwell attack as he picked up 3 for 16.

Next week Killie welcome Cavaliers to Kirksytle and will be aiming to make it 3 wins on the bounce against the team who they quite comfortably beat earlier in the season.

2nd XI - 26th July - Glasgow Ansar v Kilmarnock

The Second XI were also in action on Saturday as Glasgow Ansar visited Kirkstyle. Fielding first, stand in skipper Les McWatt saw his side bowl the visitors out for 187 in 40 overs. This total would have been a lot less if they had not given over 60 extras to the away team.

Unfortunately the home sides run chase got off to a terrible start as they lost a wicket to the very first ball of the innings. Killie were never in the chase and after slumping to 70 for 6, they ended up losing by 100 runs. The Second XI need to find the consistency they had early season if they are going to have any say in the title race in division 4.

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First XI - 19th July - GHK v Kilmarnock

Although several regular first team players were missing, due to holidays and personal commitments, Kilmarnock returned to winning ways with a hard fought victory over GHK last Saturday. With regular captain Alan Hill feeling unwell prior to the start, he handed over the reigns to Jim Hill and as has been the way of things this year he promptly lost the toss and Killie were asked to field first. Almost immediately Killie knew they were up against it, when after 5 overs Alan Hill left the field unable to continue due to illness. This mean’t that they would have to field with only 10 men for the majority of the GHK innings. However this did not seem to deter them as due to an excellent catch by stand in wicket keeper Scott Weir, off the bowling of Duncan Hamilton and a run out by Mujahid Azeem, GHK were left on 20-2 after 7 overs. However a stand worth 50 in 15 overs between Donald (16) and Mehmood (74) brought some stability to the GHK innings. However when Donald was out wickets fell at regular intervals leaving Mehmood to be the last man out, with the total on 157. All the bowlers shared the wickets with Jim Hill finishing with 3-42, Duncan Hamilton 2-43 and Zubair Pasha 2-44, with 3 run out accounting for the other 3 wickets.

Batting wise, the start was a disaster for Killie as they lost Zeeshand Saeed to the first ball of the match. This was to be the norm and Killie found themselves 58-6. What was needed was a period of consolidation and a partnership. Opener Alun Johnstone (34 no) was then joined by Alan Hill (29), who had recovered sufficiently to bat at number 8. Together these 2 batsmen sought to re-establish the Killie innings, slowly at first and as the partnership progressed, Hill in particular, opened up to play a full array of shots. Together they put on 53 to put Killie firmly in the driving seat. However when Hill was out, it still required 48 with only 3 wickets remaining. Enter stage right, Zubair Pasha. At times infuriating, at others sublime, he smashed 37 not out in quick time and the game was over with 8 overs to spare.

A much needed win however there is still much to work on, not least with regards to fielding. Again several catches were put down and the ground fielding was lax at times. The bowling was at times very good, however Killie still managed to gift the opposition 21 wides/no balls. This weekend Killie travel to Motherwell, where Saturday’s team will be bolstered by returning players.

Please click here to view the match report from a GHK perspective.

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Second XI - 12th July - Langloan v Kikstyle

The unseasonal weather this summer continued this week as Kilmarnock’s 1st X1 match with Active Life Club of Paisley was called off on the Friday afternoon as it was decided that their Hamilton Palace ground was not fit for cricket.

This turned the attention onto the 2nd X1 who were at home to Langloan from Drumpellier. Two late call offs caused some disruption but with the cancellation of the 1st X1 game there were plenty of players to pick from. 1st X1 vice captain Alistair Smith and wicketkeeper David Horne stepped into the breach and hopes were high.

On winning the toss captain David Nimbley sent Langloan in on a soft green wicket. Nimbley opened the bowling himself with youngster Mujahid Azeem. Both bowlers kept the run-rate down with some tight bowling but it was Nimbley who provided a wonderful spell of bowling where he only give away 13 runs from his 15 overs and was unlucky not to pick up more than the one wicket that he got.

Although Nimbley was the pick of the bowlers it was Amir Ghanghro who ended with the best figures as h picked up four wickets from his seven overs. Kilmarnock bowled very well but some sloppy catching allowed Langloan reach 120 when they should probably been kept to below 100. The pivotal drop as far as Kilmarnock were concerned was of Aziz who plundered a quick-fire 37 to give his side a slightly more respectable total.

Although Kilmarnock allowed their guests slightly more runs than they would have hoped for it was certainly a very gettable total on a wicket that was not doing very much.

Kilmarnock started their innings badly as Alun Johnstone was dismissed for 1 but two comfortable partnerships between Zeeshand Saeed (19) and Smith and then Smith and Horne. But when Smith and Horne fell in quick succession, to the impressive Aziz, for 13 and 21 respectively Kilmarnock capitulated from 64 for 2 to 90 all out. There were some dreadful shots from several batsmen with the pretty inauspicious spinner Allison taking 6 wickets for the loss of only 14 runs from his 9.4 overs.

This was another poor result for the 2nd X1 and their recent performances have been very worrying but there is always next week when Kilmarnock host Home Park.

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First XI / Second XI - 5th July

Kilmarnock were hoping for a break in the weather this weekend so they could get their season back on track. The 1st X1 were at home this week against Torrance House and although the rain had left the wicket pretty wet the grounds man got the pitch ready to start after a short half an hour delay.

In the absence of Captain Alan Hill, Vice-captain Alistair took over and preceded to lose the toss. Unsurprisingly Torrance House asked Kilmarnock to bat first on a wicket that would be helpful to the bowlers early on. In the absence of Hill and regular opening partner Mohammed Alem, who had broken his finger the week before, Kilmarnock opened the batting with Zeeshand Saeed and new recruit Ahtsham Dost.

Unfortunately for Kilmarnock Saeed missed a straight ball in the second over and departed for 6 with the score on 14. This brought Smith to the crease to join Dost and the pair put on a controlled partnership of 110 in 22 over’s. Smith did his best to give the strike to the more attacking Dost who departed for a very impressive 73 just before the drinks break.

Bilal Baig then joined Smith and the pair started to accelerate the scoring with Baig falling one short of his fifty after a mix up in the running. The rain began to fall very heavily and with Torrance House becoming very unhappy with the conditions captain Smith decided to declare the innings with the hope the weather cleared up and Kilmarnock could bowl out their opponents. This left Smith stranded on 79 not out, his highest score for the 1st X1 and only 21 short of a maiden century but the most important thing was that the team had the chance to claim the 25 points and that is what the batsmen had allowed their bowlers to do.

Fortunately for Kilmarnock the rain cleared up and the wicket dried sufficiently allowing the game to continue and Kilmarnock seemed firm favourites with a total of 226 to defend. Unfortunately for Captain Smith his decision to declare early backfired spectacularly as his bowlers and fielders let him down very badly. After making a couple of early inroads Kilmarnock had Torrance House at 38 for 2 but then contrived to drop a number of simple catches and bowl a staggering 38 wides. With the exception of the always reliable Zubeer Pasha who bowled a staggeringly accurate 18.4 over’s for the loss of only 28 runs with 6 maidens.

B.Kampman (88 not out) and R.Kalahofa (82 not out) put a very patient 189 off of 42 over’s and they have to be given massive credit for battling through some tough conditions but the bowlers just didn’t perform and when the fielders give both batsmen life’s early on it is always going to be difficult.

Next week there will have to be a massive improvement in both the bowling and fielding if their results are going to improve.

Unfortunately the weather got the better of the 2nd X1’s match with Scotindians in Hamilton this weekend. Kilmarnock had started well with a wicket falling in the 2nd over but the conditions became very dangerous to bowl and field in and the rain became so heavy that both captains decided there was no chance of play after the 2nd over.

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First XI / Second XI - 28th/29th June

This weekends’ cricket was once again wrecked by the recent bad weather. The 1st X1 were due to host Moorcroft but for the second time this season the rain put paid to the fixture as a downpour at just before two o’clock meant there was no chance of play. The rain also meant the 2nd X1 fixture at Hughenden was called off before the team had even set-off.

Although Saturdays games were called off Kilmarnock did travel through to Dollar on the Sunday to play there Small Clubs Cup quarter-final. The wet weather had also affected the ground at Dollar Academy playing fields and the umpires decided that the ground was unplayable with the start being delayed by two hours.

Vice-captain Alistair Smith was once again in charge and after winning the toss decided to bowl first in the bowler friendly conditions. The game had been reduced to 35 over’s aside and the Kilmarnock fielders walked out in confident mood.

After a fast start Kilmarnock suffered a massive blow as opening bowler Mohammed Alem was struck on the finger trying to take a catch off of his own bowling and had to go off injured. This was a double blow for the team as Alem has been in excellent form with both the bat and ball this season.

This meant captain Smith was forced into an early bowling change and Jim Hill was bought into the attack. The change worked as Hill took the pace off of the ball and he bowled 7 brilliant over’s in a row finishing with figures of 7 over’s 1 maiden 5 wickets for 24 runs.

When Hill finished his spell Kilmarnock seemed to be in control of the game as Dollar had slide to 122 for 5 off of 22 over’s. This was the time to capitalise and finish off the Dollar innings but a magnificent partnership by opener Buick (110 not out) and Rorke (29 not out) of 101 off 13 over’s propelled them to a daunting 223. This was undoubtedly a tremendous partnership but it was not helped by some very sloppy fielding and wayward bowling.

Kilmarnock were going to have to bat very well in their innings while scoring at more than a run a ball. With the weather closing in Kilmarnock decided to go for it early in case the rain started and run-rate would be taken into account.

Alan Hill (25) and Zeeshand Saeed (29) opened the batting and although they were a little behind the rate they were providing a good platform but Saeed was dismissed with the score on 48. Zubeer Javaid was then sent in to boost the run-rate and his exciting 15 boosted the score to 74 but with his dismissal the wickets then began to fall rapidly and it was only Smith(19) who provided any kind of resistance. In the end Steven MacKay was the final man out with the score on a very disappointing 136.

Although it was a disappointing performance it was a good day out and there were a few positive performances from two players making their debuts for the first X1 in Zubeer Javaid and 14 year-old Muhammed Ali who bowled very well.

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First XI - 21st June - Weirs 2nd XI v Kilmarnock

This weekend proved to be a frustrating weekend for the 1st X1 as the weather intervened and cost them the chance of a valuable 25 points. After losing the toss Kilmarnock were asked to bat as the prospect of rain lingered overhead. After a disappointing start to the campaign captain Alan Hill demoted himself down the order and instead opened the batting with Alun Johnstone (4) and Zeeshand Saeed (17). Although both me departed early it allowed in for batsmen Alem Mohmmed and Scott Weir to come to the crease. A tremendous partnership of 154 took Kilmarnock from 34 for 2 up to 188. The partnership was finally broken when Weir was bowled for 62. Although the partnership was broken it set the platform for the rest of the batting line-up to free their arms and there were useful contributions from Zubeer Pasha (20) and Jim Hill (23). Alem was finally dismissed in the penultimate over trying one shot too many and walking in to a standing ovation and 126 runs to his name. Unfortunately for Kilmarnock after posting a very impressive 281 for 7 from their 50 overs the heavens opened and although the players waited about there was no prospect of play and the game was finally called off at half past 6. This was unfortunate for Kilmarnock but the much-improved performance with the bat gives hope for an upturn in fortunes in the second half of the season.

Second XI - 21st June - Kilmarnock vs Vale of Leven

Also on Saturday the 2nd X1 entertained Vale of Leven and in the end wished that rain had intervened. After being asked to bat first Kilmarnock capitulated to an extremely disappointing 67 all out with no batsmen making it into double figures.

Kilmarnock went out to bowl in the vain hope that they could possible cause their opponents’ problems and although there was a wicket taken by Amir and caught by Josh Berry, both of whom were making their debuts in the side, it took Vale of Leven only 17 overs to get the runs. This was an incredibly disappointing defeat and although it was a weakened team the players know they will have to improve markedly to reach the heights of only a few weeks ago.

On Sunday Kilmarnock were meant to be playing in the quarter final of the Small Clubs Cup but unfortunately the weather got the better of the groudsman and his groundstaff and the game was abandoned without a ball being bowled. The game will now switch to Dollar next weekend to see which side makes it through to the semi-finals

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First XI - 14th June - Kilmarnock vs Whitehaugh

On a sunny but windy day on a cracked wicket returning captain Alan Hill won the toss and decided to bat hoping to post a total and bowl out their opponents on a deteriorating track.

Unfortunately these plans never quite came to fruition as Kilmarnock wickets fell at regular intervals with the only batsmen looking in any kind of form were Bilal Baig (25), who was dismissed by the impressive Campbell who took 5 wickets, and Richard Laidlaw (16), who batted 20 overs and battled through considerable pain, but neither got any support. The disappointing batting performance meant Kilmarnock only had 94 to defend and it would have to take a great performance from the bowlers to win the game.

Hill turned to his two in-form bowlers this season in Zubeer Pasha and Tom McFadzean in the hope they could get the early breakthroughs required. Unfortunately for Kilmarnock the breakthroughs didn’t come quickly enough and although there was a small wobble in the middle of the innings when Jim Hill strangled the scoring while taking two wickets and David Nimbley also took two wickets but it all came too late as Whitehaugh struggled over the line in 30 overs with 4 wickets to spare.

This was another disappointing result for the 1st X1 and they will have to turn their season round sooner rather than later if they want to push for promotion.

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Second XI - 15th June - Kingsholm vs Kilmarnock

The 2nd X1 travelled to Dumfries on Sunday looking to build on their excellent start to the season. On losing the toss stand-in skipper Les McWatt was asked to bat on a ropey looking wicket.

Kilmarnock struggled early on as the St. Michaels side, with 5 1st X1 players playing due to the fact they didn’t have a game that day, had Kilmarnock reeling at 40 for 5 after 13 overs. This brought David Horne to the crease and the wicket keeper produced a beautifully worked 48 off of the remaining 37 overs on a very tricky wicket. He was also helped by youngsters Mujahid Azeem, whose 24 came in quick time and Duncan Hamilton, whose 41 not out continued his impressive record of being yet to be dismissed this season in a senior game. The 2nd X1 got up to a competitive 174 for 6 off of their 50 overs and it would give them something to bowl at in the tricky batting conditions.

Kilmarnock’s bowling effort never really got going though and a ridiculous 61 extras gave St. Michaels the impetus and although Mohammed Alem showed his other bowlers how to do it by picking up 3 wickets while only giving away 26 runs from 15 overs it was to prove in vain. St. Michaels experienced batsmen eased them to their target with 5 wickets and 9 overs to spare. This was a frustrating day for the 2nds as St. Michaels have been struggling for form and players this season but the inclusion of several 1st X1 players proved too much for Kilmarnock although if the rest of the bowlers had bowled with the kind of consistency of Alem it could have been a different story.

Next week the 2nd X1 entertain Vale of Leven and will be looking to get back to winning ways.

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First XI - 8th June - Largo vs Kilmarnock (Small Clubs Cup)

On Sunday the 1st X1 travelled through to Fife to take on Largo in the Small Clubs Cup. With several players making themselves unavailable due to other commitments it was a pretty inexperienced side that travelled through to play against a side who had won the trophy two years ago. In the absence of regular captain Alan Hill Vice-captain Alistair Smith took over to captain the club for the first time.

On winning the toss Captain Smith decided to bat and post a total to defend on a small fast outfield. Without usual opener Alan Hill, Mohammed Alem was sent out to open the batting with Alun Johnstone and it turned out to be an inspired decision as the pair put on 157 for the first wicket. Johnstone (31) played a controlled innings by nicely rotating the strike and allowing Alem to bludgeon the attack to all parts of the ground. Alem’s innings ended after 33 magnificent overs, trying to hit one more shot out of the ground and walked in to rapturous applause after a breathtaking 139 that included 22 fours and 3 huge sixes. This was one of the best innings that you could ever wish to see and it set Kilmarnock up for a huge total.

Scott Johnston batting at three rediscovered his form and hit a quick fire 42 and with the help of the rest of the batsmen who chipped in Kilmarnock got up to a tremendous total of 288 for 7. Although they had been hoping to score 300 after the wonderful start 288 was still a great effort from all of the batsmen and it would take a monumental effort for Largo to chase it down.

Kilmarnock knew that early wickets would win them the game but these wickets were not to come as openers Walker (50) and Stinson (26) put on 76 for the first wicket before both were removed by the increasingly impressive Alem. Robinson (32) and Bux (22) kept the host going along at the required rate but although several players were getting in nobody was playing an Alem like innings and Largo found themselves at 196 for 6 with 13 overs remaining.

Requiring 93 runs at a fraction under 8 an over it would take a brilliant partnership to get Largo back in the game but unfortunately for Kilmarnock that’s what got. As the sun continued to beat down the bowlers began to wilt and Murdoch (49) and Barclay (26) looked to have swung the game in Largos favour but, with Largo requiring just 27 off of the last 5 overs, Smith re-introduced Saqib Rehman to the attack and he immediately dismissed Murdoch. Opening bowler Pasha was also brought back into the attack and got Mowat.

With Largo requiring 16 off of the last 2 overs Rehman came in to bowl his last over and produced to outstanding deliveries to bowl Barclay and last man Bentley to bring to end a quite wonderful game of cricket with Kilmarnock winning by 15 runs.This was a brilliant performance by the team as they were short of a couple of regular but on this performance maybe some of the players who stepped in will get their chance in the 1st X1. All in all it was a tremendous day out and as the bus got back into Kilmarnock at half past 11 on Sunday night the players can now look forward to a quarter final tie at either Dollar or Kismet.

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First XI - 7th June - Kilmarnock vs Prestwick

This weekend was an ideal opportunity for both of Kilmarnock’s senior sides to bid on their positive starts to the season with the 1st X1 hosting Prestwick and the 2nd X1 travelling to Glasgow to play Garscube. After losing the toss Kilmarnock were put into bat on what looked a pretty good wicket. Captain Alan Hill was unluckily dismissed early on when he played the ball onto his pad and onto his wicket. This lead to a complete capitulation of the batting line-up which left Kilmarnock at 47 for 8.

This brought together the experienced Zubeer Pasha and wicketkeeper David Horne who was in good form following last weeks 31. The pair put on a patient 44 with both batsmen scoring 22. Some useful runs from Duncan Hamilton (12 not out), who is still to be dismissed this season got Kilmarnock up to a slightly more respectable 120. This was a very poor performance by the team and it would take a mammoth effort to win the game with such a small total to defend.

Early breakthroughs were required and Pasha dismissed young opener Paterson (3) and had the other opener Maxwell dropped at first slip by Scott Weir. Quick wickets did not follow as the hosts had wished and Prestwick moved onto 55 for 1 so Captain Hill turned to his main wicket taking threat this season Tom MacFadzean and although his bowling was slightly erratic he managed to take two important wickets to get Kilmarnock back into the game. Pasha then came back into the attack and picked up 3 more wickets in a tight spell that slowed the run rate up and made Kilmarnock start to think that they were in with a chance and although Maxwell was finally dismissed for 59 it was to prove too late and the earlier drop was to come back and haunt them.

In the end Prestwick stumbled over the line getting the winning runs with 3 wickets to spare. This was a very disappointing result for the team with all aspects of the game letting the team down. They will have to improve drastically if they are to achieve their goal of getting promotion back to the second division.

Second XI - 7th June - Garscube vs Kirkstyle

The 2nd X1 travelled to Glasgow at the top of division four hoping for a win to consolidate their position. In the absence of regular captain David Nimbley last years Captain Les McWatt took over the reins and proceeded to win the toss and decide to bat

Opening batsman Mark Coleman was dismissed first over by a vicious Yorker the inform Zeeshand Saeed came to the crease. He was soon joined by Saqib Rehman who was only playing his second match for the club and both proceeded to dispatch the bowling to all parts of the ground in a stand of over 150, Saeed ended up with 91 and Rehman scored a remarkable 130. Some late hitting from Steven MacKay (33) and useful contributions from others kept the scoring going after the dismissal of Saeed and Rehman. Both batsmen were tremendous and propelled Kilmarnock to an astounding 333 for 6 off of their 50 overs.

In reply Garscube were never really in the hunt but 69 from Holland and Riiz (65) gave them an outside chance to win but a tremendous high catch on the boundary by Donald Walley removed any chance of them getting the runs. Youngster Mujahid Azeem returned figures of 4 wickets for 52 off of his 14 overs but unfortunately he and the rest of the bowlers could not quite get the required wickets and Garscube batted out the last 5 overs to finish on 216 for 8. This was slightly disappointing for captain MacWatt but they still ended up getting 20 points out of a possible 25 and was good enough to keep them at the top of the table.

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First XI - 31st May - Cavaliers vs Kilmarnock

This weekend saw both teams travel to Glasgow as the 1st X1 played at the Cavaliers and the 2nd X1 played at Cumbernauld. At Hutchy playing fields in Thornliebank the 1sts turned up to discover Mediterranean conditions and a pretty green wicket. Buoyed by winning the toss captain Alan Hill decided to put a score on the board and try to put last weeks’ poor batting display behind them.

Unfortunately for captain Hill his poor start to the season continued as he was caught behind for a duck. He was quickly followed by Bilal Baig and Alun Johnstone, both for 8. Wickets continued to fall leaving Kilmarnock at 71 for 5 with Scott Weir and David Horne at the crease. The pair put on a quickfire 58 with Weir top-scoring with an, at times belligerent 60. A clatter of wickets left Horne as the only recognised batsman but a useful 12 from Duncan Hamilton and a patient 31 from Horne got Kilmarnock up to a more than respectable 172.

Kilmarnock knew that they needed to strike early to have the best chance of picking up the points and that is exactly what happened with openers Hamilton, 1 wicket, and Zubeer Pasha picking up 3 wickets. After a brief revival between Iqbal (35) and captain Shar, Tom McFadzean was introduced to the attack and although his spell was somewhat erratic he took 3 quick wickets to reduce Cavaliers to 64 for 7.

After a drinks break that was required due to the continued sweltering conditions Kilmarnock became a bit ragged and dropped a few simple chances but a wicket for Baig and a run-out by Steven MacKay brought Kilmarnock to the brink of victory and it was left to McFadzean to pick up the final wicket of the impressive Iqbal to end with figures of 7.2 overs, 1 maiden, 4 wickets for 23 runs.

This was a good victory for the team and continues their decent start to the season that has seen three wins from their five matches. Next week sees the team return home to play Prestwick before travelling through to Fife to play Largo in the first round of the small clubs cup.

Second XI - 31st May - Cumbernauld vs Kirkstyle

The 2nd X1 were in action at Cumbernauld on their distinctly unimpressive artificial wicket. After losing the toss Kilmarnock were somewhat surprisingly put in to bat and with four of Kilmarnock’s promising under 15’s making their debuts it was going to be an interesting afternoon.

The Kilmarnock innings was held together by the impressive Zeeshand Saeed who for the second match in a row produced an important fifty this time amassing a terrific 74 on the tricky surface. He was ably supported by Saqib Rehman (22) and Captain David Nimbley (18). Kilmarnock got up to an outstanding 189 for 8 given the inexperienced side they had and it was going to be a difficult score to chase down. After a couple of early breakthroughs Kilmarnock were struggling with McAteer (68) in distructive mood but the turning point came when 11 year old Muhammed Azeem was introduced to the attack. The inspired change by captain Nimbley paid off as the youngster produced four exceptionally tight overs and got the wicket that would pave the way for the rest to follow.

Captain Nimbley himself then removed the dangerous McAteer LBW and looked to have won it but the Kilmarnock fielders became anxious when with 11 balls to go Nimbley was hit for 6 and Cumbernauld only required 21 to win but when his team needed it most the captain stepped up to bowl their last batsman and sent Kilmarnock to a very important 20 run victory.

This was an excellent victory for the 2nd X1 with many players making telling combinations and in particular the four youngsters making their debuts with Donald Walley and Oliver Raine making useful contributions with the bat while Alexander Gibson took a stunning catch and Muhammed Azeem showing why he is so highly thought of at the club. Next week the 2nd X1 travel to Glasgow again this time to face Gascube.

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First XI - 24th May - Kilmarnock vs Motherwell

After winning the toss, on a slow wicket, captain Alan Hill had no hesitation in putting the visitors in to bat, with the aim being to repeat the previous week’s heroics with the ball. D. Hamilton (1 for 25) bowled a good opening spell, but poor umpiring resulted in the fall of just one wicket. A change of attack brought good fortune as J. Hill (1 for 37) and T. McFadzean both took wickets in their first overs, with McFadzean taking two with consecutive deliveries. A good partnership between Guna (38) and Vishura (28) steadied Motherwell; however, the reintroduction of McFadzean and Z. Pasha (2 for 29) saw the visitors all out for 168, with McFadzean finishing with 5 wickets for 46 runs off of his 13 overs.

Coming off the back of scoring a mighty 254 the previous week Kilmarnock were confident that they could knock off their target quite comfortably. Captain Hill looked in good touch for his 20, but was caught in the covers attempting to take the aerial route. A. Johnstone (14) and Aleem Darr (43) then put on 50 for the second wicket as the home side looked to be cruising, but in typical Kilmarnock fashion the batting collapsed. Seven wickets fell for 36 runs, including those of the inform J. Hill and S. Weir who failed to reach double figures. D. Hamilton (12 not out) and D. Horne (5 not out) were left the unenviable task of batting out the remaining overs to secure the draw and ten points. The pick of Motherwell’s bowlers were ‘Joe’ and Praveen who finished with 7 wickets for just 45 runs between them.

Kilmarnock’s bowling attack gifted 47 extras to Motherwell, which did not help their cause; however, this was a game which should have been in the bag. This week will see Kilmarnock travelling to play Clydesdale Cavaliers. A win is needed if Killi are to continue their quest for promotion back into the second division.

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First XI - 17th May - Kilmarnock vs GHK/Strathclyde

Saturday allowed Kilmarnock to get there campaign back on track, after a crushing defeat last weekend to Active Life Club, with a home game against GHK/Strathclyde. The weeks good weather had left the wicket very hard if uneven in patches.

After losing the toss and being asked to bat on the bouncy wicket Kilmarnock soon lost opener Bilal Baig for 2. Captain Alan Hill produced a fluent knock of 27 where he looked back to his best before being bowled for 27. Laidlaw and Smith soon followed for 9 with the latter being dismissed in bizarre fashion. While trying to defend a vicious rising delivery Smith was hit on the thumb causing him to drop his bat and unfortunately for him it struck his stumps giving rise to one of the more peculiar dismissals you could ever see.

This left Kilmarnock in a precarious position at 67 for 4 with the heroes of the East Kilbride match Scott Weir and Jim Hill together at the crease. Both men produced some wonderful shots with Hill (53) hitting eight boundaries including an exquisite 6 over extra cover and Weir (83) smashing eight 4s along with three massive sixes. Their stand of 137 in 16 overs took the game away from GHK and put Kilmarnock in firm control.

Both men quickly departed trying to accelerate the run rate but this did not affect Kilmarnock as Mohammed Alem (23) and Tom McFadzean (20) produced a blistering partnership of 36 off of 24 balls to allow captain Alan Hill to declare the innings on 254 for 6 after 43 to give his bowlers extra time to get the GHK batsmen out.

After the break Kilmarnock’s bowlers started off with great purpose through youngsters Duncan Hamilton but the only breakthrough they could muster was a run-out. This forced Captain Hill to turn to his veteran bowlers Jim Hill and Zubeer Pasha. Both picked up a vital wicket with Hill dismissing the dangerous N.Hussain.

A useful fourth wicket stand between Cooke and opener A.Hussain took GHK up to 85 but two quick wickets from Baig turned the tide back in Kilmarnock favour. Once Hussain was dismissed for 37 by a tremendous delivery from McFadzean it was only the tail that was left. After a brilliant direct hit run–out from Alistair Smith who courageously fielded on with a broken thumb it was left up to Hamilton to return and finish of the innings with two deserved wickets.

This was a great way for the team to bounce back after last weeks’ display and it shows that with a full team Kilmarnock are a match for anybody in the division.

Second XI - 17th May - Home Park vs Kirkstyle

After last weeks’ inactivity the 2nd X1 travelled to Motherwell to play their respective 2nd X1. Kilmarnock did extremely well to dismiss their hosts for 173 with Mujahid Azeem taking 4 wickets and Vinoid Ranganathan taking 3. Had it not been for some inconsistent catching the score could have been far less but it was still a total they believed they could chase down. After a shaky year Kilmarnock got their act together with Fraser Gall’s 45 as well as Zeeshand Saeed's unbeaten 80 seeing the team home with time to spare to build on their good start to the season.

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This weekend provided an opportunity for both the 1st and 2nd X1s to start the season off after the postponement of last weekend’s games due to the continued wet weather that we have been experiencing. The 1st X1 travelled to East Kilbride to play Torrance House while the 2nd X1 started the season off at home to Scot Indians from Paisley.

First XI - 3rd May - Torrance House vs Kilmarnock

The wet weather had obviously had a detrimental effect on the state of the playing surface at East Kilbride as the 1st X1 arrived at Calderglen Country Park to find a very soft, damp and green wicket that suggested a low scoring game would be on the cards. After losing the toss new captain Alan Hill was asked to bat first and as usual walked to the crease to open the batting. Unfortunately Hill was dismissed fourth ball of the innings and it showed how hard it was going to be to bat. Opening partner Alun Johnstone soon followed and Kilmarnock were in a spot of bother at 17 for 2.

This brought Bilal Baig (29) and Richard Laidlaw (22) together and they steadied the ship with some controlled batting in a partnership of 43 that got Kilmarnock back on track. Both players exited quickly but they had laid the foundations for a decent score on a difficult wicket. These foundations were built upon, mainly, by the returning Scott Weir. After a number of years away Weir returned to show his other batsmen how to do it with an, at times, belligerent innings of 56. With support from a number of the other batsmen Kilmarnock got up to a very healthy 165 which, given the state of the wicket, should have been more than enough.

In reply Hill threw the new ball to young pacemen John McNair and Duncan Hamilton. Both youngsters bowled really well and were incredibly unlucky as a couple of chances went down and some dodgy umpiring frustrated the Kilmarnock fielders. Once McNair removed the dangerous Khalid and, Pearson was removed by another of the exciting young seamers in the Kilmarnock team Mujahid Azeem who was making his first team debut, it was the Jim Hill show.

Hill bowled a remarkable spell of bowling to rip through the home batting line up and end up with figures of 7 wickets for the loss of only 16 runs from his 13 overs with 8 maidens. This incredible spell of bowling brought Kilmarnock to the brink of victory and the final wicket was taken by Baig whose sensible batting earlier in the afternoon had set up the impressive victory. In the end Kilmarnock won by 75 runs to take the full 25 points and get the season off to a flying start.

Second XI - 3rd May - Kirkstyle vs Scot Indians

At home the 2nd X1 turned up to find another wicket that had been badly affected by the recent poor weather. On a very slow wicket it was Scot Indians who batted first and soon found themselves in trouble as the bowlers were enjoying the conditions. New captain David Nimbley used his experience and shuffled his bowling attack around to great effect with the Paisley side struggling to 115 all out off of 33 overs with Tom McFadzean claiming 4 wickets and Vinoid Ranganathan 3.

In reply Kilmarnock really struggled and were quickly in trouble at 46 for 6 with only Mohammed Alem providing any type of resistence. Captain Nimbley came to the crease knowing consolidation was vital and with the support of Joseph Macari, Grant Adams and Les McWatt they managed to bat out the overs and see the team through to 96 for 9. This provided the team with a losing draw to start the season and gives Nimbley and his team something to build as the season progresses.