Match report: Burley CC (152) celebrate 150th birthday with friendly match defeat against the famous Marylebone Cricket Club (265-3)

Even a blustery, grey day could not dampen the excellent atmosphere for the Burley Cricket Club’s 150th-anniversary match against the famous Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC).

The MCC – the governing body of cricket from 1788 to 1989, which retains considerable global influence – captained by Robbie Gunn, won the toss and decided to bat first. An aggressive opening stand of 135 between C. Robertson 86 and B. Rogers 77 set the tone, and a supporting 57 not out from D. Kerry meant that a total of 265 was set after 41 overs.

Burley had used seven bowlers to try to stem the flow of runs, and only Tom Osborne (2–40) and Dan Mepham (1-44) were among the wickets after Harjot Singh bowled a good and economical opening spell of six overs for 26 runs.

Burley then faced a tricky batting spell just before tea against S. Laurent (1-18) and G. Wilson (2-29).

Burley captain Kieron Hudson (65) anchored the innings well and was supported ably by James Bockett (11) and Alec Moorman (26).

As the match moved into the last 20 overs, Burley unfortunately lost wickets at regular intervals to the tidy bowling of M. Bell (3-9) and Robbie Gunn (3-18) were finally all out in 45.1 overs.

The game, which attracted several spectators, was enjoyed by everyone despite the cold, and it served as an excellent way to celebrate the 150th anniversary of cricket for Burley Cricket Club.