Cross reign in the rain against Stew Mel

Youngster Usama Shahzad stole the show in the rain affected clash at Inverleith, grabbing a 4-for on the artificial track against Stewart's Melville. Making his HX debut was Andy Williamson, a friend of Broonster and a return for Lytle for his first outing of the season.

The rain, which had put paid to the 1sts and 2nds games, held off long enough to allow Cross to dismiss their hosts for 61 all out. The aforementioned Shahzad took 4 for 22 in a fine bowling display which maybe could have been 5 had the umpire not adjudged his dismantling of McQueen's stumps to have been a No Ball.

Grumpy Geddes, who had remonstrated prior to the game that it 'was crazy playing in this weather and it's going to be a storm at 3pm', was slightly happier on two counts come the end of the innings. Having taken an exceptionally economical 3-11, he learned at the interval that Baby G had accomplished his first pee in the potty! Double celebrations then in the Geddes household tonight!

McGill picked up a brace for only 6 runs and Morcom got in on the act, taking a wicket for his troubles.

Facing a target of 62 to win, Cross went out with simple instructions - keep it calm and carry on!

Nevin done neither and was back sheltering under the trees after facing two balls. Surely the Cross couldn't make heavy weather of this in the erm, heavy weather?



Captain Ken came in to steady his ship and threw caution to the wind, batting well above his Coastal Erosion average and for the record, hit a 2 off his opening ball!! In an innings that lasted 16 balls, our Leader produced an unlikely 15 runs before being bowled.



Making a cameo appearance for the Cross was Irishman Willie Lytle and the bearded batsman knocked an impressive 18 out before succumbing to Tulloch's bowling. Young Miss Tulloch clean bowling Willie with an awesome delivery.





Cometh the day, Cometh the McGill! Coco's unbeaten 22 put Cross level and perhaps it was cruel that the winning run came off a bye - but that's the way it goes!



So, a win for the Mighty 3's who were singing in the rain. A big thanks to Simon, Charlie and Smudger who popped over from Arbo to watch, umpire and substitute field.

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