When I grow up, I want to be like Jack Brunt.
For the second time this season, he was at the crease for a last ball victory in a thrilling finale at Turf Moor against Enfield. He scored an unbeaten 27 off 34 balls alongside opener Joey Marshall (104*), as the 2s chased down 188 on the final ball with just 3 wickets to spare.
Meanwhile over at Dill Hill Lane in the reverse fixture, Dan Pickup continued to roll back the years at the top of the order. He knocked a win-securing 41 in a 5 wicket victory as 12 First XI points were secured thanks to a miserly first innings which restricted the hosts to 135 all out. Harry Snowden was the pick of the bowlers with 4/28.
The 12 points were very welcome as third place Lowerhouse beat table topping Darwen on Sunday. The top of the 1st XI table now looks like this having all played 15 games:
Darwen 144 points
BURNLEY 138 points
Lowerhouse 121 points
Speaking of Lowerhouse, our Third XIs met at Liverpool Road on Saturday with the 'House youngsters just shading what was a great game of cricket.
A certain Stephen Brunt captained the Burnley Third XI. Not just because the man would literally play a game of cricket whenever, wherever, no questions asked, but because the team was so young they needed a compliant adult around for legal reasons.
He no doubt could have seen us to victory but instead let the regular team take ownership and it very nearly paid off. They lost out by just 19 runs trying to chase down 215 in a 40 over game. A great showing from the youngsters.
The First and Second XIs play Lowerhouse this coming Sunday, a day after the valiant Third XI host Walsden at home on the Saturday.
Here's a full run down of what's on down club this week...
TUESDAY 30th JULY - INTER-LEAGUE MATCH
BAR OPEN FROM 5.30PM
Some bonus cricket at the club today: Inter-League game. The weather is set to be hot and the beer is forecast to be cold. Soft drinks, crisps and sweets available too.
Contrary to the confusing automated email from the ECB, All Stars training is continuing through August but is OFF tonight (30th July 2024).
Junior Training is officially off - please speak to your team manager regarding specialised sessions and rearrangements.
WEDNESDAY 31st JULY - JUNIOR MATCH
CLUBHOUSE OPEN FROM 6PM (NO BAR)
THURSDAY 1st AUGUST - SENIOR TRAINING
BAR OPEN FROM 7PM
We've been asked to mention this is the first time we'll be open without Blakey at the helm but, frankly, we're too unnerved by the whole scenario to even think what to write about it.
Olympics or cricket on the TV. Dealer's choice.
FRIDAY 2nd AUGUST - JUNIOR MATCH
BAR OPEN FROM 6PM
Friday night down the club. A junior game going on outside. Live sport on the TV in the clubhouse. A bag of pork scratchings and a glass of pop.
Mmm, brilliant, isn't it?
SATURDAY 3rd AUGUST - 3rd XI v Walsden
BAR OPEN FROM 12.30PM
Come and check out this brilliant young team of ours and cheer them on against the lads and lasses from across the road from Gordon Riggs.
SUNDAY 4th AUGUST - 1st XI v Lowerhouse
BAR OPEN FROM 12.30PM
The boys only have eyes for overtaking Darwen but a convincing victory would be a first step towards making the title run-in a two horse race. That said, Lowerhouse are hitting form at just the right time.
It doesn't matter what's on TV in the bar. This game's a big one.
WIN MONEY. SUPPORT THE CLUB…
Last week, we launched our BCC Fantasy Premier League for the upcoming 24/25 campaign.
Aim for one of the top cash prizes, Manager of the Month or why not try and finish in last place and take home £50 for picking the worst Fantasy Premier League team possible. Join the list and take part in the BCC Fantasy Premier League.
And remember, our monthly draw gives you the chance to win some more cash! By entering both of these competitions, you’ll be aiding the club with your much needed contribution for our clubhouse renovation.