3s face narrow defeat at Oakham

The 3rd XI suffered a narrow defeat against Oakham Cricket Club's 2nd XI, losing by 16 runs. After winning the toss and electing to field, Kibworth bowled out Oakham for 141 runs in 44.5 overs. However, they were not quite able to chase the target, being bowled out for 125 in 41.2 overs.

During the first innings, Oakham reached 60-3 at drinks, with Mark Senior delivering an economical spell of 12 overs for 34 runs. Kibworth's bowlers kept the pressure on throughout the innings, with Ollie Stone stealing the show with a five-wicket haul, clean bowling all his victims. Zethan Bandi, on his debut, claimed two wickets, whilst Simon Munden, Mark Senior and an Ed Wall run-out also contributed to Oakham's dismissal.

Oakham's innings was anchored by Charles Gill and Rory Brown, who contributed 36 and 34 runs, respectively.

Kibworth's chase began steadily, with openers Shyam Odedra and Chris Clapham putting up a 46-run partnership. However, a flurry of wickets left Kibworth reeling at 65-5 after 21 overs. Ben Matthew and Zethan Bandi stitched together a crucial partnership, taking the score to 108-6 after 34 overs, and despite the mounting pressure, Kibworth inched closer to the target, requiring 21 runs off the last 7 overs. However, Matthew's and then Bandi's dismissal marked the beginning of the end, as Steve Matthew and Mark Senior also fell in quick succession. With the last man, Ollie Stone, at the crease, Kibworth's hopes were dashed as the final wicket (Munden - 7) was taken, resulting in a 16-run defeat.

Kibworth's innings featured notable contributions from Ben Matthew (30 runs), Chris Clapham (26 runs), and Zethan Bandi (17 runs). Still, they were unable to grasp the victory. The 3's fighting spirit was evident throughout the game, but Oakham 2nd XI ultimately emerged victorious in this closely contested encounter.