The in-form 2nd XI entertained St. Mary’s yesterday, aiming to maintain their status in an incredibly tight CN5 promotion race. On a sunny Saturday at Oakley Park, The Oaks were aware that a full-strength St. Mary’s side could easily turn into a banana skin of a game.
A Clean Sweep for The Oaks
What followed, however, was nothing of the sort. St. Mary’s were low on batting options, and The Oaks were right on the money. Zak Newton and Alex Brundle sliced through the batting order like a hot knife through butter. It quickly became not a matter of how many runs St. Mary’s could post, but how few.
Zak swiftly removed the top three batsmen, while AB mopped up the next six. Ollie Rabley, not wanting to feel left out, grabbed the final wicket in his only over. St. Mary’s were blown away for a mere 52 runs, with their most significant contribution coming from extras. The Oaks seemed to have the job done, but with a low target, the loss of even a few wickets in the chase could jeopardise crucial bonus points. In such a close league, every point is critical.
Josh and DJ Seal the Deal
Enter Josh and DJ. DJ held one end steady, while Josh, being Josh, crashed the ball to all parts of the ground, scoring 39 off 42 balls. The job was completed with maximum points secured. One might feel for a depleted St. Mary’s side, but in sport, you can only beat what’s in front of you—and The Oaks did that in, dare I say it, a thoroughly professional manner.
The Promotion Race Heats Up
With the victory in the bag, attention turned to our rivals. Basingstoke dropped a valuable point at Donnington, but the real drama unfolded at Odiham, where the title race was thrown wide open. This result leaves The Oaks smack in the middle of a three-horse race with Herriard and Basingstoke, setting up what could be a last-day title decider.
Eyes on the Prize
For now, The Oaks must focus on themselves. Two tough games remain, where every point will be crucial. While the momentum is currently in their favour, everything could change with one wicket, one six, or one dropped catch. This race is going right down to the wire, and it looks likely that the last day will see three teams battling for two promotion spots.
Hold tight, everyone—this ride isn’t stopping until 31st August!