Category: 2008

Friendlies 2008

Match Details MCC vs PAK ORIENT APRIL 13 away in Hasenbergl

MCC Performers

Batsman
;
Weston retd 51
Palfrey b 37
Di Perna ct 34
Arnab c&b 28
Furlonger * 12
Khanna b 12
Northover ro 1
Wilson * 0
Koch dnb dnb
TOTAL 30 Overs 210 for 5

MCC Bowler
Bowler O M R W
Wilson 6 2 28 1
Northover 6 0 33 1
G Koch 3 0 24 1
Weston 4 0 21 3
Arnab 3 0 19 0
Khanna 4.2 1 13 2
Angus 2 1 1 0

Summary of Match Result

Mcc won opening game of season by 54 runs.

Comments on the Match

The 2008 season kicked off with a friendly match against Pak Orient away. A late withdrawal and an alcohol fuelled Saturday night meant that we started the match with nine men. Skipper Westy won the toss and decided to have a bat. It was a good decison as he and Sgt. Pepper Palfrey got us off to a great start. Sgt. was enjoying swinging his new meat and slapping the ball around the park. Westy showed his class with some tasty looking strokes as the openers operated at seven runs an over. Eventually Sgt. was bowled after a quick fire 37. Westy made 51 and retired at the drinks break in the 15th over. Di Perna and Arnab were next in and kept the run rate ticking over very nicely. They looked in good nick but were eventually both out caught but not before they had stamped their mark on the game (Di Perna 34 and Arnab 28). The last few overs saw Furlonger (12 not out), Khanna (12)and Northover on debut (1) push the MCC to 210 off their allocated 30 overs (35 extras). Bob Boulder got a rare chance to shine with the bat and looked in a class of his own when he faced and survived the final ball. Even with nine men we felt that we had a decent enough score to defend and so it proved. The new ball combination of Boulder and Northover got stuck in to the hosts straight away. The Skipper decided to bowl the pair through and they both picked up a wicket a piece for their efforts. Debutant Greg Koch got the chance to shine with the ball and did not disapoint. Arnab held on to a catch in the covers to give him his first wicket for the MCC. Not content with a dazzling 50 the Skipper picked up 3 wickets of his own. The catching was of the highest standard throughout the match and Wilson, Northover and Koch held on to beauties. Khanna mopped up the tail with his leggies and picked up a two for. Di Perna kept well and had a hand in a stumping and a run out as the hosts were eventually skittled for 156. Special thanks also to Heather the scorer. The scorebook has never looked so tidy or so colourful.

MCC Man of The Match

Weston. >Due.

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Match Details MCC vs Allen Overy UK MAY 3 in English Garden

MCC Performers

Batsman
;
Lovell ct 5
Palfrey st 74
Weston c&b 8
Arnab ro 1
Algar b 0
Wright ct 20
Clare ct 5
Furlonger no 26
Miller b 0
Wilson b 9
Langfelder no 0
TOTAL 40 Overs 179 for 9

MCC Bowler
Bowler O M R W
Wilson 7 0 37 2
Weston 8 0 22 1
Clare 3 0 9 2
Langfelder 4.1 0 16 2
Algar 6 0 17 1
Wright 1 0 9 0

Summary of Match Result

MCC beat the Uk tourists by 65 runs.

Comments on the Match

Mcc opening home fixture at the Hirschanger brought over Uk tourists Alans Ovaries from the multi cultural cesspit that is London. MCC were denied any Friday night victims at the Chinese Tower as the naive tourists chose rather to stay near to the airport. Basics. And thus a refreshed touring team walked through the English Garden ready to take on Munich. Apparently they were somewhat suprised that we didnt have a grass pitch. MCC were asked to bat first on a slightly damp slippery when wet plastic bag. Lovell provided their opening bowler with his first ever wicket after honing his teutonic action in the Lords nets over the winter. Weston hit a full bunger buffet ball straight to a fielder. Palfrey was alleged to have ran Arnab out for missing the train back from LJ. Algar proved that a week was a long time in cricket with a blob after 83 in LJ. Wright hit a few lusty blows in his 20 before he went weather watching. Amongst all this Palfrey batted serenely before the pressure of Angus’s 2Mass bet that he would score at least 75 got the better of him. The big can man himself Furlonger – how can we sleep when our cans are burning? – with a well made 26 ensured MCC posted a respectable total of 179 in their 40overs. In reply the highlight was a fantastic catch by Weston in the gully area. Diving upwards and taking a popped delivery behind his heid. Tremendous effort that. Veteran Chris Langfelder, a late addition to the team at literally the eleventh hour, ensured a comfortable victory with two quick wickets around the drinks break.

MCC Man of The Match

Mark Firestarter Palfrey. 74 well made runs. A white wine sort of a day.

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Match Details MCC vs CCB MAY 4 away

MCC Performers

Batsman
;
Weston b 71
Arnab ct 45
Wright b 0
Furlonger ct 2
Sear b 23
Wilson b 14
Miller ro 1
Koch b 0
Morgan ct 12
Northover ct 1
Scott no 3
TOTAL 39.5 Overs 212 for 10

MCC Bowler
Bowler O M R W
Scott 8 1 26 2
Wilson 8 0 27 0
Northover 6.2 0 25 4
Sear 6 0 28 2
Koch 4 0 35 1
Furlonger 3 0 33 1
Arnab 2 0 26 0

Summary of Match Result

Mcc lost by 20 runs.

Comments on the Match

Pre season friendlies are about improving fitness and team spirit. The outcome of the match is sometimes irrelevant. Whilst improving fitness and spirit on a mild Sunday afternoon, the following occured: Scott and Wilson sent down mean and economical over after over and took a few wickets between them. Ross and Sear tried to do the former, but settled for the latter, Ross spectacularly so with a quadruple haul. Arnab and Gus ensured we had a target to chase. Wright improved his fitness. Greg Koch and Jessica offered glimmers of hope for the season with some accurate bowling and a key wicket interspersed between some pretty loose stuff. When it was the MCCs turn to rest on the sidelines the events that unfolded 40 yards from the suntrapped spots the majority of us occupied included: Westy excercising his swing to such effect that this friendly might result in some worried captains in the Bavarian League this year. Arnab not only anchored the innings but anchored whilst scoring. No Tavare here. Wright failed to improve his fitness further. Gus ensured we had a target to chase. Sear improved fitness but increased short term heart attack risk by running like a cnut. Wilson familiarised himself with the middle. 3rd longest stay out there on this day. Ship steadier. Morgan hit a few lusty blows. Greg, Ross and Scott wanted nothing more than not to trouble Senor Bradly too much. The result is, as previously stated, irrelevant, but for those who are interested, we did in fact not win.

MCC Man of The Match

Ross Northover 4 wkts on debut after injury layoff.

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Match Details MCC vs CCB MAY 17 in English Garden

MCC Performers

Batsman
;
Angus b 10
Arnab ro 15
di Perna no 44
Majid ct 28
Clare no 12
Hobbs dnb
Northover dnb
Palfrey dnb
Weston dnb
Wilson dnb
Lovell dnb
TOTAL 27.1 Overs 138 for 3

MCC Bowler
Bowler O M R W
Majid 5 0 18 2
Wilson 8 0 32 2
Weston 6.5 0 24 3
Northover 8 2 16 2
Clare 4 1 15 0
Hobbs 2 0 14 1
Furlonger 1 0 10 0

Summary of Match Result

Mcc won by 7 wickets early dors.

Comments on the Match

A comfortable victory against CCB in this friendly in the English Garden. After losing the toss MCC were reluctantly asked to field. After some erratic opening overs bowlers settled into their straps. Major Majid picked up a couple of scalps on debut. 2pot Wilson similar if not better. Northover was miserly and nagging as most Brummies are. Weston picked up three wickets somehow with his liquorice allsorts and lollipops. Hobbs also took a wicket on debut. Some good catches again and the visitors descended to 135all out. The two LJ victims Angus and Arnab got the MCC off to a slow possibly slightly unsteady start reminiscent of their night train back from Slovenia. All aboard. No. The victory was never in danger though as Rich di Perna (44no) and Majid with a few lusty blows (28) and Clare Rich (12no) took the team home to a 7 wicket victory and to a very early kick off in the Chinese Tower. Bourbon Train. Choo choo.

MCC Man of The Match

Majid on debut.

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Match Details MCC vs ANZACSAFFAS OR SIMILAR May 31

MCC Performers

Batsman
;
Arnab 25
Morgan 18
Sobek ro 5
Tattu 3
Northover 1
Williams 0
Albert 8
Majid 16
Gale no 26
Finch 6
Scott 4
TOTAL 30.4 Overs 157 for 10

MCC Bowler
Bowler O M R W
Scott 8 0 31 0
Gale 7 1 21 0
Finch 6 0 39 2
Majid 5 0 21 2
Sobek 3 0 30 0
Arnab 3 0 21 1
Northover 6 0 42 0

Summary of Match Result

SA-Anzacs 232 for 4 in 40 overs. Tasman Palfrey 101* Two Pot Wilson 31 Blind Man Clare 0 Trentino Flasher Weston 66 Hamish Puddy 0 Kit Bag Carrier Wright 8* Bio Fuel Koch DNB Tübingen Terror Coles DNB Slinger Langfelder DNB Jack Hobbs DNB Sajid Haircut Rabbani DNB Extras 27 MCC lost by 75 runs

Comments on the Match

On a glorious day the match got under way after delaying tactics by the MCC, who were awaiting the arrival of their strike bowler from Ikea. Scott bowled his usual repertoire of jaffas and wides and Gale kept things tight but the Anzac trio of Palfrey, Wilson and later Westy P1 made hay. Fielding was lethargic, catching poor, extras aplenty. Tasman Palfrey was dropped early on but he regained composure to secure a splendid ton, batting through the Anzac innings. Majid arrived in time to bowl at the death, limiting the total to mere manic proportions. After a solid start from the MCC, wickets tumbled and a win never looked likely. A few heaves towards the end ensured a degree of respectability but the MCC were still way shy of their target when bowled out. The Anzacsaffers shared the wickets between them and headed for a triumphant mass or 5.

MCC Man of The Match

The erratic Mark Palfrey. 101 not out.

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Match Details MCC vs Pak Orient 20/20 June 1

MCC Performers

Batsman
;
Weston b 0
Algar ct 37
Wright b 13
Majid b 24
Tattu b 10
Fudge no 22
Sajid ct 3
Lovell ct 3
Giles no 2
Finch dnb
Langfelder dnb
TOTAL 20 Overs 131 for 7

MCC Bowler
Bowler O M R W
Sajid 4 0 37 2
Langfelder 2 0 16 0
Finch 1 0 12 0
Weston 1 0 7 0
Wright 1.1 1 1 0
Majid 1 0 16 0
Algar 1 0 16 0

Summary of Match Result

Mcc lost by 5 wkts also bowled Tattu 1-0-3-0 Fudge 1-0-23-0

Comments on the Match

On a stinking hot day in the sticks MCC were taken to the Pakistani sword with a resounding 5 wicket butchering. Lovell won the toss as usual and a great start ensured with Weston falling for a golden. Weston’s P1 buddy Wright did not enjoy his innings especially the running aspect. Algar batted well and would have got more if his bat wasnt so brittle. Majid battled nicely and there were runs for Matt Fudge on debut at end of innings as MCC closed on 131 for 7 in their 20overs. This could have been enough after the hosts slumped to 10-2 early with two catches by Buckets Green Overralls Giles both off bowling of Sajid. But then the bowling went haywire, the batting became brutal and Finch threw a hissy fit in a unmemorable performance all round.

MCC Man of The Match

The moist cake.

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Match Details MCC vs Pak Orient 25over match 7 JUNE

MCC Performers

Batsman
;
Palfrey ro 43
Wright ct 24
Wilson b 5
Rabbani. M ct 10
Clare st 22
Morgan ct 1
van Giezen no 11
Sobek b 10
Albert no 1
Scott dnb
Rabbani.S dnb
TOTAL 25 Overs 155 for 7

MCC Bowler
Bowler O M R W
Scott 5 0 43 0
Wilson 5 0 44 0
Rabbani.M 5 1 28 1
Rabbani.S 1 0 9 0
Wright 2 0 13 0
Clare 5 0 20 2

Summary of Match Result

Mcc lost by 6wkts in 25over match.

Comments on the Match

With a soggy outfield, a slippery pitch and a sense of more bad weather to come, MCC went in to bat in a reduced, 25 over match. Palfrey (43) led the way in the batting, as is becoming the norm, putting together a 50 partnership with Wrighty (24). The boundary was being troubled but not battered and after contributions from Clare (22) Dennis (11), Majid (10) and Sobek (10) the lads scraped together a total of 155. An early wicket brought signs of promise however, it wasn’t to be. Dinner jacket Jim took to the bowling attack and carted a buffet of sixes and fours. Clare bagged a pair but it wasn’t the MCCs day as the Pak Orient managed to reel in the total in 23 overs. A generous birthday present for Mr. Bhatti and the lads continued to make him feel at home by helping to polish of some curry and plenty cans from the keg of Augustiner.

MCC Man of The Match

Sgt Palfrey. Erratic.

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Match Details MCC vs CCB 20/20 Game 1 June 28 in Eng Garden

MCC Performers

Batsman
;
Weston ct 25
Northover ct 16
Sobek b 18
Majid ro 0
Venkat ct 28
Tattu lbw 0
Giles b 5
Hobbs ro 2
Miller no 2
Maygar b 1
Weatherall no 0
TOTAL 20 Overs 115 for 9

MCC Bowler
Bowler O M R W
Maid 3 0 26 1
Northover 4 0 29 3
Venkat 3 0 13 0
Maygar 3 0 18 1
Weatherall 2 0 29 0
Hobbs 3 0 24 3
Tattu 2 0 12 0

Summary of Match Result

Mcc lost 20 20 by 43 runs. Game 1.

Comments on the Match

Debuts – Tony Magyar and Venkat MCC lost the toss were put into the field to graze as CCB made 158-9 of their 20 overs. Westy shared out the bowling duties amongst the team. The pick of the bowlers was Ross with 3-29 and Charlie Anzacsaffer Hobbs with 3-24. The hightlight of the fielding was a fine running catch by the stand-in skipper – Westy. With nearly 8 an over to win Ross and Westy got the MCC off to a good start before Westy holed out in the cow area – scoopage. Ross soon followed with a lazy shot to mid wicket – catching practice. This brought Majid to the crease to bat with the club number 3 Sobek who was not willing to sacrifice his wicket this week and duly run out the most dangerous batsman remaining. As the wickets tumbled MCC fell way behind the run rate and it was a case of batting the overs out to get some respectability back to the match. Venkat hit some nice late blows mostly over cover.

MCC Man of The Match

Ross Northover runs and wkts.

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Match Details MCC vs CCB 20/20 Game 2 June 28 in Eng Garden

MCC Performers

Batsman
;
Tattu ro 11
Giles b 15
Maygar b 4
Miller b 2
Hobbs b 6
Venkat ct 2
Majid ro 34
Sobek ct 8
Northover no 4
Weston no 4
Weatherall dnb
TOTAL 20 Overs 111 for 8

MCC Bowler
Bowler O M R W
Venkat 4 0 8 2
Weston 4 0 21 3
Majid 3 0 28 1
Northover 3.2 0 20 0
Hobbs 2 0 9 0
Tattu 1 0 13 0
Maygar 1 0 9 0

Summary of Match Result

MCC lost by 4 wkts game 2 20/20

Comments on the Match

MCC suprisingly won the toss although it was only a formaility as the skippers had agreed prior to the toss to do the opposite of game 1. The batting order was reversed and the MCC stuttered towards a total until Majid came in and added some valuable runs to help post 111 for 8 of the allotted overs. Looking light on the runs side the MCC needed to bowl CCB out to stand a chance of winning. An early breakthrough came from Weston, then Venkat grabbed his first pole for the club when makeshift wicketkeeper – Sobek – snared a rising edge. At 25 – 5 of 7 overs this game had plenty of life. Like previous Twenty20s we let the game out of our grasp as catches were spilled, fielding went to pieces and CCB eased home in the 19th over to win by 4 wickets.

MCC Man of The Match

Majid.

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Match Details MCC vs SSC JULY 6 in Neuperlach

MCC Performers

Batsman
;
Algar ro 33
Lovell b 78
Sobek b 38
Majid b 46
Miller b 11
Maygar no 1
Blades b 4
Scott dnb
Sear dnb
Giles dnb
awol 2pot dnb
TOTAL 40 Overs 222 for 5

MCC Bowler
Bowler O M R W
Scott 5 0 33 1
Sear 2 0 23 1
Majid 1 0 15 0
Blades 1 0 2 1

Summary of Match Result

Match abandoned with MCC holding all the aces with SSC 73-3 chasing 223.

Comments on the Match

MCC won the toss and batted. All the top four filled their boots with Algar (33) putting on 68 for the first wicket with the captain Lovell before Algar was run out to a direct hit. Club No 3 Sobek (38) played his leg side shots well and made his alleged high score for the club putting on 80 with Lovell. Lovell fell tired for 78 before Majid took up the attack with some nice hits in his 46. Miller also notched up double figures. Rain was unfortunately brewing this side of the Forschungsbrewery and despite repeated attempts (on and off with the covers) and 2 nice slip catches from the skipper the game had to be abandoned and the masses flowed later in the aforementioned brewery to round off the damp weekend.

MCC Man of The Match

The inclement weather won the day.

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Match Details MCC vs Pak Orient Sat 19 July in English Garden

MCC Performers

Batsman
;
Lovell b 48
Albertz retd hurt 7
Sobek ct 6
Embleton b 0
Hazza b 1
Wright b 0
Angus Beef b 35
Arnab ct 8
Gibbs no 6
Scott b 8
Ross b 0
TOTAL 34.4 Overs 151 for 10

MCC Bowler
Bowler O M R W
Scott 8 0 44 1
Northover 8 0 34 3
Embleton 8 0 34 2
Hazza 1 0 12 0
Wright 8 0 51 1
Gibbs 6.2 0 32 2

Summary of Match Result

Mcc lost friendly by 58runs.

Comments on the Match

Having lost the toss MCC were asked to graze in the lush English Garden. Overall too many catches went down starting from the 2nd over and as a result when that happens against Pakistani opposition you are going to be punished and spend alot of futile time chasing leather. Predictably Pak Orient comfortably reached 200. Embleton and Ross were the pick of the bowlers with Herschelle Gibbs also bowling a useful late spell. Mcc got off to good start before Albertz had to be stretchered off with an injured side. There then followed the traditional MCC collapse with Sobers, Ben, Hazza and Wright all falling to the inspired bowling of Waqar. Angus joined the skipper for some cans and they put on 81 to bring MCC up to scratch and in with a sneaky chance. However Lovell (48) and Gus (35) both fell in quick succession with about 70 needed and the innings subsided in reasonably morgue like fashion.

MCC Man of The Match

The weather.

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Match Details MCC vs MICC at Westpark Pampas Park 20 July

MCC Performers

Batsman
;
Lovell ct 8
Embleton lbw 44
Majid ct 22
Angus b 14
Giles ct 15
Miller b 23
Pryke no 1
Mitcham no 0
Weatherall dnb
Cunt awol
Cunt2 awol
TOTAL 28.3 Overs 156 for 6

MCC Bowler
Bowler O M R W
Embleton 6 0 36 0
Majid 6 0 27 1
Giles 3 0 43 0
Weatherall 4 0 49 0
Pryke 6 0 29 3
Angus 5 0 80 2

Summary of Match Result

Mcc lost to be fair. However some cynics have suggested that we would have won on 15over rule. Pods.

Comments on the Match

Thanks to the nine fearless souls that braved the Westpark pampas grass and minute postage stamp boundaries. With weather worries around the match was immediately reduced to 30ov. Unfortunately for various pointless reasons we also only had 9men and lost the toss and fielded. One didnt really need fielders in some positions as the pampas grass was so deep the ball was getting stuck and in danger of getting lost by ones ankle. Thus MCC were able to restrict the home side early doors with good bowling by Ben, Pryke and Majid. After 15overs the home side were going nowhere. Obviously after that point we were a couple of bowlers short and there was not much to do other than watch the ball disappear and spend fckin hours looking for it. Pointless. Seriously though thanks to Doug, Dave and Gus for braving it and seeing the funny side of it. 3 hours for 30overs of bowling. 1 hour and 3 mins spent looking for stray red objects and sending people on bikes to go look behind the ground. Maybe the pampas grass could be grown higher to prevent this? In reply Ben Embleton top scored with a well made 44 before he was happily triggered by the only honest man in the club Bob Mitcham. Majid hit a few lusty blows alongside Scott Miller. Giles fell agonisingly short of his 2000 runs for the Morgue CC. This will have to wait until September Mr Gharles. Pods.

MCC Man of The Match

Pryke, sutcliffe. Yorkshire. First spell of year rewarded with three cheap sticks on day.

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Match Details MCC vs Medbourne, Sat 26 July in English Garden

MCC Performers

Batsman
;
Morgan Caught 15
Van Giezen Bowled 18
Sobek Caught 4
Miller Bowled 16
Khanna Bowled 23
Williams, U Bowled 0
Algar Caught 4
Gale Bowled 21
Rabbani, M Caught 24
Fudge Caught 6
Scott Not Out 3
TOTAL 31.5 Overs 149 for 10

MCC Bowler
Bowler O M R W
Scott 8 2 8 1
Rabbani, M 6 1 7 1
Fudge 5 1 23 1
Gale 4 2 2 3
Algar 3 1 12 0
Van Giezen 3 0 16 1
Sobek 0.2 0 0 1

Summary of Match Result

MCC won by 80 runs.

Comments on the Match

With the skipper and vice away it was left to Garfield Sobers to take over the helm and the MCC ran out comfortable winners against the UK touring team from Medbourne. With the weather peaking at 28c and humid the MCC were delighted to win toss to have an early bat. At 93-7 it was looking quite perilous for the hosts until Moo and Madjid hit some lusty blows and put on 45 for the 8th wicket. At the top of the order Morgue, Cans Giezen, Kans Khanna and Mule Miller all got a start but were unable to kick on. Jan Ullrich was unable to score his first run for the club but hung around for 16 balls and took part in the third highest partnership with Kans Khanna – 21 for the 5th wicket. At 149 ao in the 32nd over, (an excellent fielding display from Medbourne) it was looking like an under par score but an excellent opening spell from Steve Harmison Scott and Mad Madjid, 19 runs from first 15 overs, brought the hosts back into the game. Finger of Fudge and Moo continued the good bowling and picked up more wickets to put the MCC firmly in control. As the game petered out Algar, Cans Giezen and Garfield Sobers all got a chance to turn their arms over. Medbourne ao for 69 in the 30th over. Highlights of MCC fielding: the winning catch by the Mule Miller, run out by Cans Giezen and Garfield Sobers. A good team effort against a very sociable guys from the UK. A pleasure to host them in the English Garden and take them to the tower for a few beers.

MCC Man of The Match

Moo Gale, third highest scorer and excellent bowling. Madjid runs him close for same reason but three wickets for two runs makes sure he gets the nod.

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Match Details MCC vs CCB T20 Game 1 Saturday August 30

MCC Performers

Batsman
;
Hoeck ro 3
Backstadt lbw 25
Clare b 16
Majid b 1
Maygar b 2
Garner ro 8
Mai b 1
Golding b 0
Weston b 13
Sobek ro 0
Wright no 5
TOTAL 19.1 Overs 105 for 10

MCC Bowler
Bowler O M R W
Mai 2 0 14 0
Majid 2 0 5 1
Garner 2 0 26 0
Maygar 2 0 26 0
Weston 4 0 15 1
Wright 3 0 27 0
Clare 0.4 0 5 0

Summary of Match Result

MCC lost by 8 wickets.

Comments on the Match

Saturday was a stinking hot day for a double header 20/20 in the Hirschanger vs CCB. We were fielding 3 real-life young Germans which is possibly some sort of club record. MCC batted first in the first game and were cruising at 49/1 after 7 overs with Bachstadt and Clare peppering the leg side. Then the wheels well and truly came off with everyone out either bowled or run out by Weston. Sobek particularly happy about this. Only a last wicket stand between wet-clubbers Westy and Wrighty pushed the total over 100. The fielding and bowling were similarly poor and CCB cruised to the target with 8 wickets and 5 overs to spare. Low point of the game and praps entire season was 4 consecutive dropped catches off Wrighty’s bowling. I kid you not. Comedy club value.

MCC Man of The Match

The teas

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Match Details MCC vs

MCC Performers

Batsman
;
TOTAL Overs for

MCC Bowler
Bowler O M R W

Summary of Match Result

Comments on the Match

MCC Man of The Match

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Match Details MCC vs CCB T20 game2 August 30

MCC Performers

Batsman
;
Weston b 34
Majid ct 27
Sobek no 12
Garner no 10
Maygar dnb
Hoeck dnb
Backstadt dnb
Mai dnb
Golding dnb
Wright dnb
Clare dnb
TOTAL few Overs 93 for 2

MCC Bowler
Bowler O M R W
Clare 4 0 16 1
Mai 4 0 18 1
Weston 4 0 29 2
Hoeck 3 0 14 2
Golding 1 0 9 1
Wright 1 0 2 2

Summary of Match Result

Mcc won second t20 by 8 wkts

Comments on the Match

MCC were a different unit in the field in the second game after a couple of cans and semmels each. CCB were all out for 92 with the wickets spread around with Golding, Bachstadt and Hoeck taking maiden wickets for the club. The batting order was rearranged for the second dig and Majid and Weston raced towards the target as it was nearly bourbon hour and didnt want to waste QDT. (Quality Drinking time). Both fell within sight of the target, but Sobek finished off proceedings including a six over cow.

MCC Man of The Match

Westons whet club founding member. New Membership applications by email or alternatively via facedbook.

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Match Details MCC vs Nationwide UK Sep 13 in English Garden

MCC Performers

Batsman
;
Lovell ct 0
Wright ct 42
Majid b 55
Gibb b 2
Garner no 11
Khanna no 13
Fudge dnb
Miller dnb
Hobbs dnb
Maygar dnb
Clare dnb
TOTAL 20 Overs 135 for 4

MCC Bowler
Bowler O M R W
Clare 4 1 4 1
Fudge 3 0 14 0
Garner 2 0 12 1
Maygar 3 0 17 0
Hobbs 2 0 6 3
Miller 1 0 6 1
Wright 1 0 6 1

Summary of Match Result

Mcc won 20/20 by 53 runs. Mcc won 10over thrash by 5 wickets.

Comments on the Match

The onset of rather moist weather put this fixture in serious doubt. However the weather gods opened a window allowing the game to go ahead in cold but dry overhead conditions. Outfield was still rather wet though due to previous precipitation. Mcc batted first with the skipper collecting his second September blob. Due. Wright and Majid both went big and batted well putting on 77 for the 2nd wicket in 11overs. Garner and Hazza finished off the innings well as MCC finished on a satisfactory 135-4 off 20. In reply the tourists were always up against it, struggling on the alien pitch to get their bearings. They made a brave fist of it but fell short on 82-8. Pick of the bowlers was Hobbs just back from Cameroon. He had to be taken off just in case he got 5 wickets. There then followed a 10over thrash as the weather permitted. 1 over per bowler. Here the visitors racked up 47 which the MCC knocked off in the last over. Fudge top scoring. Thanks go to the touring party from Swindon Nationwide, a good bunch. Cheers.

MCC Man of The Match

Majid

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Match Details MCC vs Munich Australians Sep 20, 25over match

MCC Performers

Batsman
;
Algar b 32
Clare b 12
Majid b 11
Van Giezen b 0
Lovell no 49
Sobek b 21
Hobbs b 0
Furlonger ro 3
Miller no 2
Scott dnb
Gibb dnb
TOTAL 25 Overs 144 for 7

MCC Bowler
Bowler O M R W
Gibb 4.4 1 27 1
Scott 2 0 22 0
Clare 1 0 16 0
Hobbs 2 0 12 1
Van Giezen 1 0 19 0
Majid 2 0 19 0
Algar 4 0 27 2

Summary of Match Result

Australians won by 4 wkts.

Comments on the Match

A depleted Australian line up seriously bolstered with some talented ringers and ball tickled merchants were too good for a strong MCC side in a 25over match up. Mcc racked up a good score in their 25overs. This score was brutally set upon by Weston, Di Perna and associated tickle merchants as the Aussies won easy with time to spare to attend the Oktoberfest orgy. The right hander Tom Scollay was quite possibly the best right hander ever to grace the flicx pitch.

MCC Man of The Match

Lovell.

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Tour report Vienna, 4 – 6 July 2008

A typically motley crew assembled on Friday morning 9 a.m. in München Hbf in front of Starbucks. The twisted firestarter Palfrey was a surprise last minute replacement for Lovell who doesnt love the shorter form of the game enough. Tour organiser Mr Finch looked to have everything under control. Gus thoughtfully brought some cans for the trip. Westy managed to drag his relatives and mates from Pasha nightclub just in time for departure. New guy Viscount Venkat was given a long lost welcome on the platform. All in all ten fine bodies of men on the train to play a six-a-side tournament – The Annual Viennese 6aside mini World Cup tournament.

Soon after getting under way the guy with the buffet cart was harassed. Performing well under pressure he managed to produce a number of cold fresh Budweisers. Obviously he was not working for his commission though as he failed to show again. Somehow we still managed a steady flow of cans through the trip.

In Vienna Finchie’s plan for taking the U-Bahn and then a bus to the ground was quickly discarded. A fleet of taxis took us safely to the Vienna Cricket Stadium. Just the one stop for some cans.

First match

Format of the game was 6-a-side, 8 over matches with a max 2 overs per bowler. For the first match MCC decided to field first to get a feeling of the game. Venkat and Richie did well with the ball. Although the slow bowling of Westy just outside off seemed to be the most effective. MCC managed to keep the opposition down to 80 runs, which was no problem for the MCC. Opening stand by Palfers and Westy took us a long way and with Clare Rich in good nick this year he was able to finish things off. MCC top of the league.

Second match

As we had 10 players, some new players got a chance in the spotlight. After cans all day Gus was still fit enough to bowl (2 no-balls off a 2 step run-up) and field (third man, shambles). We played against a strong Dutch / Sri Lankan side, that managed to score over 90 runs. This proved to be a big challenge. All batsmen had to chip in, in the end Venkat managed to hit some very important sixes over deep square leg and into the car parked on the street (car owner pissed off, but Palfrey tried to convince him in Japanese, Korean and Chinese that this was ok). This won us the game in the final over. Thrilling win!

After the excellent first matches, a number of choice cans were well deserved. Again the U-Bahn seemed unfeasible, so taxis were ordered to the Wombat, our hostel of choice. Quick registration (David Gower was here) and a split in an English / Kiwi / Aussie / Dutch room and a Aussie / English / Kiwi / India room, freshening up and off to the Wombat bar. Quite a few cans, Palfers chair dance/breakage, vodka / red bull, pizzas, fussball and pool-games later the Wombat was getting too much of a sauna and we decided to move off into town. We did lose a few players to grassy Korean wickets and being completely clunted.

Off to the Bermuda Triangle where the best bars were supposed to be. First bar (Bermuda Brau) proved to be a disappointment, and after a very quick drink we continued our quest to the Gnadenlos bar in one of Austria’s famous bunkers. Just a few bourbon cokes, spiced up with a little bourbon, was enough to get the lads dancing and involved. However, as we still had an important match the following morning, most left in time for a snack and a good night’s rest. Captain Westy still found the time to bother the locals with surveys, get completely lost, meet with Miss Germany 1998, put some meet between the buns, sending 20 text messages to the team that he was going to miss Saturday’s game and Palfers should be captain.

Third match

As we lost Richie and Kiwi to see the Kiwis beating Australia in the Rugby and Captain Westy was still missing (AWOL), we were actually lucky to have 6 players for the match. We had to play a strong Pakistani side, one of the favourites for the tournament. We still managed to make it a close match, thanks to good bowling from Palfers (4 wickets) and Dennis (4 balls, 3 wides, 1 wicket), good umpiring by Wolfgang, good batting from Ryan. Finchie made it out to the middle for the first time, but just missed out on facing a ball as we were all out 10 runs short. Still some bonus points as we bowled the others all out. Some dubious tactics by the Pakistanis as their best batsman was suddenly too injured to field (bowled and fielded just fine the next day) and they only used 4 bowlers. All allowed in the rules, but clearly not in the spirit of the game. As Steffi was walking by in her new bikini, the arguments were soon completely forgotten.

After the match and a few cold fresh cans, we again failed to get to the U-Bahn. Still got back to the hostel, only to find Kiwi still missing on his brunch date. Most of the team was then off into town, to enjoy the beautiful city centre, the sunshine and a few fresh cans. After a very short sightseeing tour we ended up on the terrace of Hotel Europa for a quiet afternoon, including 39 cans, 5 bourbons, 10 Sambucas, not giving the homeless man money, but offering him a Sambuca, which he smashed back, then offered a second, said no, then hand out raised with a terrible thirst for round 2, got stuck in to it, downed faster than the last, licking his lips, a cheeky wink, and walking away with a spring in his step. Gus entertained the crowd with his now famous Indonesian olive oil story, and the Committee then convened to discuss the behaviour of captain Westy after missing the crucial morning match, putting him on probation for the next match. Finally satisfied with the number of cans, Palfers decided to lie down in the middle of Vienna main street in front of a nice Arab lady that had to walk around him.

As the sightseeing tour took a lot out of us, the dinner in the famous Schnitzel Paradise restaurant was skipped and instead we retreated to the Hostel for some R & R. As Kiwi finally returned from his brunch he could join the fun in the Wombat Sauna and the company of some well travelled girl from NZ: “we were in Belgrade, Hungary yesterday, and we’re going to Vienna in a couple of days”. As the bar was really getting too hot, we moved once again to the Gnadenlos, this time convincing a few of the (young) backpacker girls to come with us. Big night, good fun, “VVS never drank so much beer”, Ryan getting emotionally involved, a few cans and finally all safely back in the Hostel for a few hours sleep. Venkat could feel the effects of a few days on tour with the boys now, and was completely done.

Fourth match

After almost getting half the team killed by a reckless taxidriver, we decided to select our strongest team possible in the field to ensure our place in the semi-final. Meanwhile Finchie was off changing our train tickets so we actually could play the final should it come to that. In the end a convincing win, thanks to good bowling from Dippa, big hits from Westy making up for Saturday’s shambles. We had now qualified for the semis and were actually the tournament favourites. Then the bad news came, we could not catch a later train (despite some good efforts from Kiwi) and could not play the final. As it was no use to win a semi and then pull out, we forfeited our place in the semis to the later winners Sri Lanka Orange, had a few cold and fresh cans, said our thanks to the organisers that did a wonderful job and were off to the Westbahnhof for our train back home, thinking of how we would have won in Vienna (it means nothing to me).
Fairly uneventful trip back home, KFC reluctantly provided some chicken wings for the road, six sweaty guys in a single smelly compartment with the doors closed sleeping convinced most people to ignore us. Just a few cold cans for Gus listening to the ball-by-ball updates of the Wimbledon final and then back in München.

Cricket was the winner, we could have been, but we had a train to catch

Reporter : Dennish

Match Details MCC vs MICC MAY 10

MCC Performers

Batsman
;
PALFREY lbw 39
LOVELL b 33
WESTON ct 36
DI PERNA lbw 6
VD ct 14
ALGAR B 8
WRIGHT ro 12
SEAR ct 4
CLARE ct 14
ARNAB NO 0
GALE dnb
TOTAL 40 Overs 209 for 9

MCC Bowler
Bowler O M R W
Clare 7 0 41 2
Sear 4 0 18 0
Weston 7.2 1 35 2
Gale 8 0 11 2
Algar 4 0 19 1
Wright 2 0 13 2

Summary of Match Result

MCC WON OPENING LEAGUE MATCH BY 69 RUNS.

Comments on the Match

Mcc won the toss and is often the norm on a stinking hot Munich May day elected to bat first. With MICC opening bowler stuck in traffic Palfrey and Lovell got the innings off to a rattling start with 89 for the first wicket. Palfrey top scored with 39, Lovell went for 33 and Weston 36 as MCC subsided somewhat from a promising position after 30overs. Mcc finished with 209-9 off their full allocation, maybe not enough considering the start provided. Catches win matches they say and with good snaffles for Weston and Lovell to remove two good batsman it was always gonna be MCCs day in the field. Key Bowler though was Alex Gale with 2 wkts for 11 in his 8 overs with his right arm slow floaters onto the matting tape. There were also 2 victims each for Wright, Clare Rich and Weston P1 in a comprehensive victory for MCC.

MCC Man of The Match

ALEX GALE 8overs 2-11. And turned up on time with a coffee cup in hand.

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Match Details MCC vs SSC May 24

MCC Performers

Batsman
;
Palfrey lbw 17
Weston b 20
Lovell b 9
Di Perna lbw 13
Furlonger b 16
Arnab ct 7
Dennis ct 7
Sear b 5
Wilson lbw 1
Ross no 1
Scott b 1
TOTAL 34 Overs 124 for 10

MCC Bowler
Bowler O M R W
Wilson 8 0 21 0
Northover 8 1 43 4
Scott 8 0 27 1
Sear 6.5 0 19 3
Weston 7 0 30 2

Summary of Match Result

Mcc lost 2nd league match by 19 runs.

Comments on the Match

A pretty p1ss poor performance – perhaps a tad complacent – even with 5 changes from the opening league fixture. Having lost the toss Mcc missed a couple of catches in the field and bowled the normal feast of wides to gift the Sri Lankans unnecessary extra runs. Sundries being top score. That said 143 should never be a winning total. From a seemingly comfortable position at drinks MCC were quickly descending in their tri-annual collapse. Losing by 19 runs. But well played SSC. Next up are Lufthansa in a must win game which they will all be from now on in. Pods. And the teas were sh1thouse too.

MCC Man of The Match

The weather.

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Match Details MCC vs Lufthansa 14 June 2008 in English Garden

MCC Performers

Batsman
;
Palfrey lbw 0
Di Perna b 14
Algar lbw 105
Clare retd hurt 33
Gale ro 2
Majid b 28
Wright b 4
Sear b 2
Lovell no 6
Furlonger ro 2
Scott no 2
TOTAL 40 Overs 217 for 8

MCC Bowler
Bowler O M R W
Scott 7 0 26 1
Sear 5 0 28 1
Gale 3 0 8 2
Majid 5 0 17 2

Summary of Match Result

MCC WON BY 138 runs

Comments on the Match

MCC got the league campaign back on track with a dominating lashing of Lufthansa. The toss was forfeited after the tardy arrival of the opposition due to the usual delays with the baggage. It proved a Kiwi run fest with Algar blazing a maiden league ton. Clare Rich chipped in with 33 before chipping a ball into his face and being rushed to the infirmary. Majid on league debut with 28 hit a few late large blows as MCC closed on 217 after 40overs. In reality the only danger were the elements and getting p1ssed on from a great height. However Lufthansa plummeted to 79-7 off 20 overs and decided not to bat on after the break due to poor flying conditions.

MCC Man of The Match

Algar. Grunter. 105.

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Match Details MCC vs Campbell Inv. Zuoz Intl Cricket Fest

MCC Performers

Batsman
;
Palfrey no 103
Lovell ct 15
Weston ct 1
Algar ct 12
Majid lbw 3
Clare ct 58
Gale b 14
Furlonger no 1
Scott dnb
Sobek dnb
Northover dnb
TOTAL 30 Overs 232 for 6

MCC Bowler
Bowler O M R W
Scott 3 1 9 0
Northover 4 0 31 0
Majid 2 0 13 1
Gale 3 0 23 2
Clare 4.1 0 11 5
Sobek 2 0 21 1

Summary of Match Result

MCC won by 120 runs v Campbell Invitation Eleven from London, England.

Comments on the Match

see ZUOZ tour page 2008 for full details but great batting from Palfreyman and Clare Rich saw MCC to a very competitive total. Clare destroyed the London teams innings with 4 wkts in 6 balls before ending up with a deserved Michelle. Gale turned after securing a brilliant return catch off possibly their best batsmen.

MCC Man of The Match

Clare Rich, great all round performance. Harsh on Palfrey but fair enough really for not wearing club cap while batting.

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Match Details MCC vs Winterthur Zuoz Intl Fest June 21

MCC Performers

Batsman
;
Palfrey ct 5
Wilson ct 2
Weston ct 26
Algar lbw 30
Gale ct 64
Lovell b 13
Clare b 12
Majid lbw 2
Furlonger no 13
Giles no 6
Blades dnb
TOTAL 30 Overs 213 for 8

MCC Bowler
Bowler O M R W
Blades 6 0 25 1
Algar 5 0 30 1
Clare 5 0 37 0
Majid 5 0 38 1
Gale 6 1 26 3
Wilson 3 0 24 0

Summary of Match Result

Mcc won semi by 28 runs.

Comments on the Match

see main Zuoz webpage for full details but another good batting performance with the enigma that is Gale top scoring well supported in valuable partnerships all through the batting list. Gale also starred with the ball including a fine catch running back into the swirling force nine gale.

MCC Man of The Match

Gale. Suspended ban.

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Match Details MCC vs Basel Fawlty in Final Zuoz Intl Fest

MCC Performers

Batsman
;
Palfrey ct 8
Lovell ct 20
Weston ct 0
Furlonger b 19
Algar ct 11
Clare ct 42
Wilson ct 12
Gale no 21
Majid ct 4
Blades no 3
Northover dnb
TOTAL 29.5 Overs 155 for 8

MCC Bowler
Bowler O M R W
Blades 5 0 21 1
Algar 6 1 16 3
Majid 6 0 33 1
Clare 6 0 29 3
Gale 4 0 20 0
Wilson 3 0 25 1

Summary of Match Result

Mcc won by 2 wkts in a fantastic game of cricket. But would we say that if we lost?

Comments on the Match

see main Zuoz tour page for full details but a epic close finish. Mcc won the toss and inserted the opposition who they had been stuffed by on the last two visits. Algar and Clare were the pick of the bowlers as Basel were restricted to 151 off 30overs. 3 fine catches from keeper Weston too. In reply MCC got off to a shaky start and were 75-5 at the halfway mark. Living on a prayer. A good partnership by the Kiwis Wilson and Clare edged MCC closer but at 142-8 the game was in the balance. Gale kept his heid before it came down to the last over with Bunty Blades on strike and just four to win. 2 off the first ball but then followed 3 dot balls. Gripping stuff. Who would keep their bottle? Another swing and a miss but a wicket keeper fumble too as the batsman tried to scamper a single to tie the game. But hang on what happened to the ball? Yes that red and sometimes round thing. It somehow hit the fckin helmet lodged behind the vocal keeper. 5 penalty runs and the game was won. Bizarre stuff. Couldnt have scripted it Richie. Marvellous.

MCC Man of The Match

Clare Rich, Man of Tournament.

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Match Details MCC vs Pak Orient June 29 away in Johasenbergl

MCC Performers

Batsman
;
Palfrey ct 29
Lovell ct 20
Algar b 16
Di P ct 2
Weston no 108
Clare lbw 12
Gale ct 13
Sear ct 5
Majid b 9
Wilson ct 2
Blades no 0
TOTAL 40 Overs 257 for 9

MCC Bowler
Bowler O M R W
Blades 5 0 28 2
Wilson 5 0 33 1
Weston 6 0 28 3
Gale 4 0 35 2
Clare 5 0 33 1
Sear 1 0 5 1
Majid 1 0 13 0

Summary of Match Result

Mcc won by 79 runs.

Comments on the Match

Mcc kept their league title hopes alive with an ultimately convincing victory against the unpredictable Pakistanis of the Orient (POCC). Winning the toss Lovell had no hesitation in batting first in the blazing hot Johasenbergl heat. With temperatures in the 90s even the locals were getting hot and bothered. Lovell and Palfrey knocked up 52 for the first wkt before both fell disappointingly. Algar fell to a grubber and DI P holed out on the fence. Clare fell lbw before Gale and Weston put on 49th for the 6th wkt. Gale adjudged ct behind. Majid and Weston added another important 48th for the 8th wkt. Weston progressing serenely to an unbeaten 108 off 86 balls. Well supported in last man stand of 21 by Blades (0*). MCC finishing on a respectable 257-9 off their allocation of 40overs. It was clear to most cricketing sages that on a high scoring ground MCC would have to bowl out the home side..to defend that total would be nigh on impossible. All bowlers chipped in with wkts but at 170-7 off 25 overs the game was in the balance. Sear gained the vital 8th wkt with a good catch from Algar before Gale performed the last rites to improve his battered figures. A good all round performance. Something similar required in last league game v CCB with the BCV league title at stake allegedly.

MCC Man of The Match

Weston unbeaten ton and wkts too. Due.

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Match Details MCC vs CCB 2nd August in English Garden

MCC Performers

Batsman
;
Gale b 12
Lovell b 9
Algar lbw 18
Weston b 13
Van Dalsum lbw 10
Clare b 4
Angus ct 3
Sear b 0
Wright b 7
Northover no 6
Scott b 11
TOTAL 39.2 Overs 128 for 10

MCC Bowler
Bowler O M R W
Scott 7 0 28 1
Sear 6 0 18 0
Clare 7.2 0 26 2
Gale 8 2 17 2
Northover 2 0 14 0
Algar 4 0 20 1
Wright 5 0 25 2

Summary of Match Result

MCC lost by 22 runs.

Comments on the Match

MCC lost final league game to CCB by 22 runs. Losing the toss and fielding first MCC restricted the visitors to 150 bowling them out in the last of their 40overs. Gale was the pick of the bowlers with another economical spell. In a similar morgue scenario as to previous defeat to SSC, MCC never looked comfortable chasing these runs. Algar top scoring behind the prolific Extras. From 82-3 off 19overs MCC subsided to 93-7 off 29 overs and the game quickly slipped out of reach against a keen CCB side who held their catches and fielded better. The MCC then headed to the Chinese Tower to re-enact the morgue scenario and practise their off the ball touch rugby skills.

MCC Man of The Match

Gale.

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Match Details MCC vs CCB BCV 2020 cup Sat 9 August home

MCC Performers

Batsman
;
Weston lbw 87
Lovell b 4
Venkat st 3
Palfrey ct 33
Morgan b 1
Clare no 6
Wright ct 5
Angus no 1
Sobek dnb
Garner dnb
Scott dnb
TOTAL 20 Overs 170 for 6

MCC Bowler
Bowler O M R W
Scott 4 0 20 1
Venkat 4 0 11 2
Wright 4 0 18 2
Clare 2.2 0 17 1
Garner 4 0 27 2
Sobek 1 0 4 1

Summary of Match Result

MCC won by 67 runs.

Comments on the Match

MCC went into opening 2020 fixture looking to avenge defeat in 40 over league game the week before. Winning the toss and batting always seems to help the MCC and this match was no different. Weston won the match for MCC with some large hitting, getting down on his knee and finding elevation by scooping the ball to the boundary. CCB will regret dropping him on 25 at deep mid off. He then made hay before becoming faint on 87. He was well supported in a century partnership by the erratic Palfreyman. MCC closed on an excellent 170 which MCC will never ever surpass on our home ground. Called it. Vienna Tourist Venkat enjoyed his home debut and was the pick of the bowlers. Also two wkts for Wright and another debutee Dan ‘Joel’ Garner. This week MCC take on POCC looking to top the group.

MCC Man of The Match

Weston. Due.

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Match Details MCC vs POCC Sat 16 August home BCV Cup 20 20

MCC Performers

Batsman
;
Weston ct 6
Lovell ct 3
Di Perna ct 55
Fudge b 0
Clare b 9
Sear ct 14
Van Dalsum no 32
Van Giezen no 14
Garner dnb
Gibb dnb
Scott dnb
TOTAL 20 Overs 152 for 6

MCC Bowler
Bowler O M R W
Clare 3 1 8 3
Weston 4 0 17 2
Scott 4 0 32 1
Gibb 2 0 11 1
Sear 2 0 4 0
Garner 1.4 0 11 2

Summary of Match Result

Mcc won comprehensively by 69 runs.

Comments on the Match

MCC and POCC were playing to top their 20/20 group and, more importantly for the MCC, avoid an away semi in Beirut or similar. MCC won the toss and obviously batted first. collapse. Cue a first innings collapse as MCC slipped to 17/3 as Lovell was out hit pitch, Westy skied one, and Fudge missed a straight one. The two Richs, Clare and Di Perna, steadied the ship and put on 46. Sear and Di Perna put on another good stand before both were caught by one of the 9 fielders on the boundary. The two Dutchmen, van Dalsum and van Giezen, then proceeded to mow an unbroken 46 off the last 4 overs to lift the MCC to 152/6. Skip decided to open the bowling with spin and dibbly dobblers a la NZ 1992 with Weston and Clare. POCC praps went too big, too early against the slower stuff and fell to 31/5 with Clare grabbing 3 and Weston 2. Spreadsheet. Not quite game over with some big hitters lurking down the order but Scott (1), Gibb (1), Sear and Garner (2) all then bowled well and were duly backed up by the fielders as POCC were all out for 83. Di Perna capped off a fine day with a stumping off Joel Garner to go with his two catches and 55. MoM.

MCC Man of The Match

Di Perna. Marriage has praps given him a new lease of life.

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Match Details MCC vs 2020 semi final v SSC Sep 13 Eng Garden

MCC Performers

Batsman
;
Weston b 51
Lovell ct 0
Di Perna lbw 4
Venkat b 3
Algar ct 6
Majid b 1
Clare ct 0
Wright b 23
Sobek ct 3
Gibb no 4
Garner b 4
TOTAL 20 Overs 121 for 10

MCC Bowler
Bowler O M R W
Weston 4 0 23 1
Venkat 4 0 10 0
Wright 4 1 11 2
Gibb 4 0 13 4
Majid 2 0 18 0
Clare 1 0 14 0
Algar 1 0 13 0

Summary of Match Result

Mcc won by 18 runs.

Comments on the Match

Mcc steamed into the final with a pretty convincing victory v SSC. Despite losing early wickets all around him Weston survived the carnage and mullered a lovely half century before leaving a straight arm ball. Wright with a match winning 23 was the only other batsman to make it into double digits. His duet with Barry Gibb ultimately proved the difference runs wise and their combo also reaped rewards with the ball. The opposition found themselves up against it early and lost wickets regularly. Gibbo had the outstanding figures of 4-13 with his dibblies – well supported by Wright with 2-11. SSC simply could not get these bowlers away in the middle overs after Weston and Venkat had tied things up early. Despite a late spell of bowling yips MCC held on to reach the final where they play POCC on Sep 27 in the English Garden.

MCC Man of The Match

Jon Wright for all round effort. Runs at end proved the difference. It was made for Wrighty.

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Match Details MCC vs BCV T20 CUP FINAL V PAK ORIENT 27-9

MCC Performers

Batsman
;
Weston ct 19
Algar b 5
Di Perna no 33
Wright no 6
Majid dnb
Lovell dnb
Sear dnb
Clare dnb
Garner dnb
Venkat Koka dnb
Gibb dnb
TOTAL 12.3 Overs 72 for 2

MCC Bowler
Bowler O M R W
Venkat 3 0 11 1
Clare 3 0 15 1
Gibb 2.3 0 17 2
Sear 3 0 9 4
Weston 2 0 10 1
Wright 3 0 9 1

Summary of Match Result

MCC WON T20 BCV CUP FINAL BY 8 WKTS.

Comments on the Match

MCC produced a clinical performance to see off Pak Orient in the T20 cup final at the Hirschanger. Losing the toss MCC were asked to field by Waqar on a lovely late Oktoberfest day. Pak Orient got off to a solid start and looked in no trouble at 20odd for no loss. Pak Orient then suddenly crumbled with wickets falling at regular intervals to all bowlers, backed up by keen fielding. The highlight was mid innings Dan Sears all bowled hat trick. Something I have never seen. All bowled all comprehensive. This left the Pak Orient innnings in tatters and they quickly subsided to 71 all out. In reply MCC were never in trouble and coasted to victory with Di Perna and Wright seeing them home to win by 8 wkts. MCC’s first cup title in a long time – see stats.

MCC Man of The Match

Dan Sear, hat trick all bowled.

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LJ MAJOR CANNING BOOT CAMP TOUR APRIL 25-27 2008

Neither child nor pensioner were to get in the way of a Slovenia bound canning session as two full booths on Friday’s 1526 from Munich to ljubbly jubbly Ljubljana were hastily evacuated in the name of…well … cans. It was immediately clear to any tour virgins that the MCC were here for business.

As the cattle truck rolled on serenely towards Austria, the atmosphere was chilled but the beers were even colder and fresher. It therefore wasn’t long before the lads began to warm up and improve the repertoire of pointless banter. Managing to get the basics right the full squad made a successful change in Salzburg and no bodies were left behind. But the friendly inspectors of train number two were less than happy to see us and an occasional whiff of smoke in the air had tempers brewing and idle threats of eins-zwei-drei, ‘Polizei’ thrown idly about the carriage. To the MCC however, there were bigger problems at hand. Supplies of cold fresh were running dangerously low.

There was obviously only one place to turn for refuge at such a moment and that was the buffet bar. Basics. To the luck of the general public said buffet bar was completely empty and the team migrated to the good hands of comedy duo, Davor and Reg. The big Croatian, Davor, was in charge of continuous (cold) refreshments and moustache-clad stand-up; whilst in the kitchen, Reggie (the overweight Elton John) sweated it out, cigarette in mouth, working hard to provide grub for the sensible and not to flash his ash on the eggs. With ball in hand, Davor’s eyes lit up and we thought we may have a potential pace-man in the ranks. However the big fella was just plotting ways to kill his mother-in-law with the shiny red pill in Zagreb.

After hours of banter it was a fairly sauced crew that spilled onto the platform at Ljubljana station as the MCC sought out the cobblestone way to the aptly named Alibi hostel. Manageable for most it was only Cpt Morgan who seemed to have difficulties as he got into an altercation with his bag and swiftly head butted the kerb.

Reception was harassed, rooms were issued and bags were stored before the lads left their Alibis behind and headed out for fresh cans. It was on to the Cutty Sark Pub for more banter and a hint of the Palfrey fireworks as LJ skipper Tom joined the festivities to make sure we were all getting sufficiently lashed. It was a bit of a sausage fest to say the least and only the Finnish Senior Citizens Association (FSCA) seemed to benefit from the night. Upon further questioning it was apparent to Angus that the young ladies of LJ didn’t know when the last bus to Manchester was, so it was time for more B52’s.

The Kiwis headed off early with the intention of some late night tucker and some pre-game shut-eye but the latter was to prove hard to come by. Not able to find his room key, Morgan pulled up stumps in the Kiwi quarters while Gus found his way to the balcony and sung the sweet serenade of the B52s to the streets of Slovenia.

Lovell, Wrighty and LJ Tom powered on to ‘AS’, a stones through from the Cutty Sark, while Arnab managed get himself ejected and traded his phone for directions back to the hostel.

Glazed eyes opened to a beautiful day and the lads found sustenance on the side of the Ljubljana River before summoning taxis for the trek to the ground. Still no key from Morgan. But Angus was able to advise over the airwaves that Taxi 32 had indeed finally ran out of cans.

With the beautiful Slovene mountains looking on, Palfrey and Arnab headed to the middle as the LJ team took to the field. Following his form from the night before, Arnab headed back with zilch whilst Palfrey looked like he was in for the long haul. The outfield was slow, twos were hard to come by and the pace of LJ opener, Eve, was a bit much for Di Perna who was rolled for 5. This brought Wrighty to the middle who displayed a mix of cow corner 6’s and weather watching and the concentration only lasted for a cheeky 31.

As Algar came to the crease, things really began to light up and a barrage of boundaries flew from the bat. Palfrey’s backbone innings got the MCC past the hundred mark before he headed back to the sheds with a valuable 38. Harry played good support as Grant continued to pile on the runs and LJ seemed to be strapped for ideas on how to stop the onslaught. So it was to the debutant that they turned. LJ born, Simon was given a few tips on the correct bowling action before stepping up to launch down a delivery that even the Yankees would’ve been proud of. Eventually finding his line and length the villager managed to slide one through Algar to end his great knock of 83. Five 6’s, eight 4’s, all class.

The debutant went on to take 3 scalps as Clare, Gus, Morgan and last man jack Lovell fell for a couple each and Wilson was the only man left standing as LJ managed to claim all 10 MCC wickets for the first time. MCC all out for 237.

As the VCPTTPD (Village Car Park Time Trials for Pointless Driving) took place in the ground side parking lot, the lads woke Arnab from his sleep to head out for a field. Keen for a quick finish and early cans, but that was not be. Despite a few early wickets and great spells from Mikey and Clare, the LJ run rate was painfully slow and the Terrible Thirst Canno Meter (TTCM) was rapidly on the rise.

Hazza bagged a couple off his legendary short disco run and Grant bowled with plenty of zip but the lads were stinging for an ale and the innings dragged on. Captain Lovell decided to release the weapon and keyless Morgan stepped up to the plate and delivered some great pies with prizes. Palfrey’s over can only be put down as comical and Clare Rich dropped a sitter that would have sealed the innings but it wasn’t until the final over that MCC managed to take the last scalp and roll LJ for a grand total of 120. Hats off to a LJ Tom captains knock of 45. It should’ve been wrapped up earlier. Somehow we even managed to bowl 41overs. Naively only Algar spotted this though but only bothered to inform us after his 5th can much later on. Cheers mate.

Scorecard

Munich CC Vs Ljubljana

1-Innings Match Played At Valburga, 26-Apr-2008, Friendly

Munich CC Win by 117 runs

Munich CC 1st Innings 237/10 (Overs 40)

Batsman

Fieldsman

Bowler

Runs

Bls

4s

6s

Palfrey

c Kauèiè,S

b Jakofcic,E

38

0

0

0

Arnab

b Eve,B

0

0

0

0

Di Perna

b Eve,B

5

0

0

0

Wright,J

b Jakofcic,E

31

0

0

0

Algar

b Kauèiè,S

83

0

0

0

Khanna,H

c Jakofcic,U

b Eve,B

16

0

0

0

Claire,R

b Eve,B

4

0

0

0

Furlonger

c Jakofcic,U

b Kauèiè,S

2

0

0

0

Wilson

not out

4

0

0

0

Morgan

run out Blaznik,U

7

0

0

0

Lovell,M*

c Jakofcic,E

b Kauèiè,S

2

0

0

0

extras

(b4 lb2 w34 nb5)

45

TOTAL

10 wickets for

237

Bowler

O

M

R

W

wd

nb

Eve,B

8

1

17

4

–

–

Blaznik,U

8

0

37

0

–

–

Jakofcic,E

8

0

46

2

–

–

Kaluranitilake,L

5

0

36

0

–

–

Jakofcic,U

2

0

29

0

–

–

Charlesworth,M

2

0

22

0

–

–

Kauèiè,S

5

0

32

3

–

–

O’Dowd,M

2

0

17

0

–

–

Ljubljana 1st Innings 120/10 All Out (Overs 41)

Batsman

Fieldsman

Bowler

Runs

Bls

4s

6s

Charlesworth,M

b Wilson

4

0

1

0

Eve,B

b Claire,R

3

0

0

0

Jakofcic,E

c Morgan

b Arnab

7

0

0

0

Furness,T*

not out

45

0

3

0

Kaluranitilake,L

b Claire,R

1

0

0

0

Farrell,D+

c Lovell,M

b Khanna,H

7

0

0

0

O’Dowd,M

b Khanna,H

0

0

0

0

Blaznik,U

lbw

b Furlonger

3

0

0

0

Zidar,J

lbw

b Morgan

3

0

0

0

Jakofcic,U

c Lovell,M

b Morgan

4

0

0

0

Kauèiè,S

b Wright,J

6

0

0

0

extras

(b2 lb1 w31 nb3)

37

TOTAL

10 wickets for

120

Bowler

O

M

R

W

wd

nb

Wilson

8

0

22

1

–

–

Wright,J

7

1

21

1

–

–

Claire,R

6

3

10

2

–

–

Arnab

2

0

7

1

–

–

Khanna,H

8

0

17

2

–

–

Algar

4

0

14

0

–

–

Furlonger

2

0

10

1

–

–

Morgan

3

0

12

2

–

–

Palfrey

1

0

5

0

–

–

So it was onto the nearby lake for a couple of crates and the MCC bade a farewell to their fine LJ hosts and ventured back to touch base with the Alibi. A quick freshen up and the lads hit the streets to line their belly with more pizza before seeking out the much talked about Bachus Centre.

Not far from the banks of the LJ river, Bachus looked a little plain from the outside. But a few steps through the door and the lads found themselves in a three floor club and bar with plenty going on. It wasn’t long before the Palfrey fireworks got started, twisted firestarter, the instigator and the friendships of locals were soon won and lost with some erratic dance moves on display. Wrighty decided to follow the trusty lead of Gus’s fiery B52’s and light up his Zambuca, resulting only in a flaming right hand a slight smell of burnt skin in the air. Shenanigans ensued but all of the lads made it home eventually, with bank balances being the only real casualties of the night. Rumors of Arnabs dust-up with a school kid are yet to be confirmed…

Managing to roll out of the hostel in time for check out, Wilson, Clare and co headed up to the castle for some sightseeing whilst the less energetic turned to brekky beers for entertainment. Arnab used his final chances to harass the reception staff while Angus got the new girl drinking on the job. Basics.

Up for a bit of sightseeing themselves, the core group of canners headed to the main square of LJ…and…well that was about it. The call of Zambuca was sounded across the cobblestones and was answered with echoes as the singles shots came back as doubles. Round after round passed, Wrighty befriended the ice-cream girls, and the clock ticked on towards 4pm and the departure of the Munich bound cattle train.

Unsurprisingly the train departure time of 1600 came by much sooner than expected and there was a mad frenzied dash to collect gear from the hostel and head to the station. Tripping over kit bags and staggering past street stalls the team managed to make it to the station and clamber aboard. Once the frenzy had settled however, it was clear that the MCC was incomplete despite Morgans best efforts. With a face full of Big Mac and ketchup to his elbows, Arnab stumbled from the golden arches only to see the train pull leisurely away from the platform, his bag and passport safely on board. Angus too had failed at the basics and also found himself stranded in LJ, but like a trooper returned to the bar for few settlers to think about where he went wrong. As the two casualties were boarding their overnight train from LJ the main group pulled into Munich Hauptbahnhof and ten shadows slinked off into the night. Morgan found his LJ hostel room key at circa 2300 that night whilst entering his Munich flat. Alibi needed for that.

Thanks for the good times Ljubljana. ‘Your chics are hot. Your water’s not’.

Winterthur 8aside tournament August 22-24 2008, Switzerland
Morning Munich, Morning Major…
The trip began on the train (Swiss bound cattle truck) with Westy tucking into a succulent greasy
bird – perhaps not the first time for him – according to The Major.
The club kit was evenly distributed throughout the touring party and all responsible managed to get
their kit off the train – including the showjumping helm. However, for some reason, Lovell’s bat was
left and probably still is, wedged in on the train. For which the rest of the touring party (the
irresponsible?!) were blamed. Lovell then sat outside the hotel and toe punted over a chair knowing
he only had himself to blame. Shank list top 5 candidate.
The night saw a swift start with Clare wasting no time and cracking straight into two birds in the
hotel bar – one fit and one not. “Westy’s Whet Club” so christened by Luke and consisting of Westy,
Rob Shaw, Clare and Wrighty slipped off to Zurich at some point and reported to have spent
obscene amounts of cash on a bottle of vodka  – 1226 Swiss francs or roughly
750 Euros. Topped up with 200 Euro bottles of vodka they returned on the first train Saturday
morning and turned up on time for a breakfast of Big Mac and fries. Breakfast of champions.
Meanwhile…
Friday night ended at a much more sensible hour for the English contingent (lightweights?). Sobek
was first out at around 12am with the Major and Joel Garner following on a few hours later.
Despite having separate rooms, Clare Rich had taken the key to the Major’s room with him to
Zurich so that left a rather uncomfortable request for asylum with Garner. Some time later, Lovell
strolled in and proceeded to shamelessly strip down to his y-fronts and climb into the bed between
the sleeping duo as the rather attractive but large chunk of meat in the sandwich.05:30 and the MCC club captain’s foghorn impressions rudely woke up the Major who decided to
vacate the stench of the threesome for his own ‘bed’ because Rich MUST be back by now. Wrong.
After five minutes of banging, kicking and rattling the door handle of room 32 there was still no
answer. “Are you sure there’s someone in there friend?” asked a disgruntled neighbour. The Major
then gave up and was forced to rejoin Garner and Lovell to wrestle back possession of his sleeping
bag.
Game 1: Winterthur v. MCC
Good weather had been ordered last Tuesday and horribly failed to turn up with a moist day on
Saturday. Munich were stitched up with an early doors sparrow fart game against the hosts
Winterthur who decided to bat first. MCC were shocking in the field with catches going down all
over the shop. Shaw dropped one off Garner, Garner dropped one off Shaw – honours even.
Fortunately Winterthur amassed only 69 runs which were promptly dispatched by openers
“Wheton” (47*) and Lovell (20*)
Charitable Athletics
The 6 hour wait between matches was admirably filled by making the most of the impressive
adjoining Wintertur sporting facilities that included a running track and 5 aside football pitches.
Sheltering in the stands from severely deteriorating weather, Greg aka Rog the Peasant aka Patrick
Bateman (first seen that day resplendent in club blazor sweeping twigs from the pitch), bravely
entered himself in an event that involved running round the track for charity in aid of the citizens of
Malawi. www.tearfund.ch
At the gun he fired out the blocks for an impressive first 400m leaving the field of mostly old men
and young girls for dead. For every franc raised one gruelling lap had to be completed.Dictionary definition of peasant: “…a coarse, unsophisticated, boorish, uneducated person of little
financial means.” See above peasant entertaining equally peasant crowd with refrains of “I say
‘BACKSIDE’, you say…?!”
Suitable running gear in the form of Ethiopian Mink was unavailable (new item in next seasons
merchandising brochure naturally with MCC logo, colour: Tabby, massive margin) so 21 laps of the
track were completed in official club kit (even bigger margin) to the big ups of the very vocal
commentary team who plainly loved the MCC for their effort.
The 21 lap burden was shared between MCC members including a race that ended with Lovell
revealing an uncanny natural talent for the Olympic Walking event on the final straight. All MCC
members put in what would have been scintillating lap times, were they timed, in comparison to the
other entries who admittedly were all probably running about one hundred laps each in aid of
charity.
New respect was gained for Olympic athletes who didn’t win their medals sitting down and Number
4, the big unit, who picked it up each time he went past only to look closer to the edge of death on
the next lap.
The 21 Swiss francs raised at one franc a lap for 21 laps seems a paltry sum to be sending to
Malawi for basic survival necessities when slightly more effort in the form of an extra 1205 laps
could have got the entire nation one bottle of champagne…to share between them…
Game 2: MCC v. Prague
The Creature: “Morning Major!”After an all day wait Munich’s second game against Prague, led by The Creature was quickly
monsooned off after only 5 overs so play was packed in and shelter taken. The start of the match
was tossed over by Lovell and The Creature. Once the winning captain had decided what to do,
Mark gracefully extended his hand to said Creature who instantly turned his back and walked away
ignorantly snubbing a rather bemused looking Lovell whose face was a picture.
Westy’s ‘Whet Club’ would have to go some to out-wet das Wetter…
Wagamamas was the restaurant of choice after the day’s biathlon and proved to be quality, if a little
draughty. One word…dumplings…no not Anna…
Paddy “there’s something wrong with this beer mate” O’Briens was the meeting point for the other
teams so a flat pint was duly supped in a bar which was admittedly, “well designed for a Trotters
bar”.
Winterthur timely hosted a massive music festival that weekend and entertainment was provided by
a ska band who fair rocked it with “I say Venkat…you say Koka”. The hotel bar, in the centre of
town, right where the festival took place was the next stop.
Major Bruce Forsyth turned out to be “one of those touchy feely types” He nonchalantly struck his
favourite pose whilst prowling for a Brucie bonus along the edge of the dancefloor.Major Bruce
Meanwhile photographic evidence shows Rog the Peasant disappearing to throw some shapes on
the DF with a hands in the air attitude to life. Mullered, he trained it later back to Zurich in the
small hours only to nobly and commendably arrive on time for the next day’s sport attired in
trademark blazer and freshly ironed whites. The Great Gatsby doesn’t even come close.
After leaving Rog it was a desperate attempt to find somewhere interesting to carry on the drinking.
First up was Coyote bar with fake palm trees dotted tackily around the place. A pathetic attempt to
copy the theme of the slightly more famous Coyote Ugly. It wasn’t long before a body double for
Big Daddy pulled his burly frame onto the bar, sat on his knees only to have his head viciously
pulled back – by butt antlers that wanted the back door taking out of. His mouth was mercilessly
filled with what probably was scented water from a vodka bottle to the lashed up cheers from his
fellow builder workmates.
Only one place remained open after we left Coyote and that was the poncy cafe bar by the station.
We had a beer in there watching the Marathon before calling it a night and heading back to base.
Surprisingly the hotel bar was still fairly lively but after a desperate attempt to purchase one last
beer to quench the eternal thirst, we were told the bar was closed and therefore no other option was
left but to get some sleep…
Day 2, Game 2 Continued…
The game versus Prague was resumed at the ungodly hour of 09:30 on Sunday morning. Turned out
nice again as the ordered good weather eventually turned up. Prague set the respectable target of
114 for MCC to win thanks in no small part to Garner whose true bowling figures shall remain
secret due to poor low resolution shots of the scorebook…but rest assured he went for more runs
than a severe case of Backsidewatersir over the gas works.Munich therefore faced (in both senses of the word) a tough chase when openers Weston and Lovell
were out before enforced retirement, for 31 and 25 respectively. Wrighty, supported by Clare, put
on a gritty display to bring it down to the wire and retire on 40. Shaw then came in, smashed a 1 and
Sobek finished off in nonchalant style with a 6 as MCC coasted home in the last over.
Having qualified for the final and being rather spent from the sporting efforts the night and day
before only the Major took part in any extra curricular sporting activities by shooting some hoops
and proving himself to be an all round sportsman – despite being a Millwall fan. The rest of the
team flaked it out in the now beautiful sunshine and half watched the other teams battle it out in the
heat.
The Final: MCC v. Freiburg
Having trained all their lives for this match and loaded up on curry the MCC hobbled out to field
first in the welcome sunshine apart from Lovell who assumed his fielding position in the comfy
deck chair.
Freiburg batted well as “Darth Vader” so named by the touring English team for his long hair and
batting helm combination retired on 41 and Shane got a valuable 34. Garner redeemed himself with
the best bowling figures for MCC…funny, the resolution of the photo for that page of the scorebook
was fine…Freiburg posted an imposing total leaving MCC 123 to win.
MCC started batting well with Weston swatting the opening bowling long into the houses on 5
occasions and once long and straight aiming no doubt for the pink bibbed, hand clapping football
team?! The hosts cringed each time he faced and ended up out of match quality cricket balls and
probably a lawsuit on their hands.
Lovell was out frustrated caught on the fence off the bowling of Darth Vader for 20. MCC kept the
dot balls down but chipping away the ones and twos was never going to win it. It went close in the
end but the bowling quality of Freiburg was high enough to maintain a reasonable line and length
for this type of game and it was impossible to shuffle across and chip sixes over the gas works when
needed.
The day ended with a trophy presentation to the Freiburg captain who was gracious in victory and
thanks from the hosts to generous applause.
MCC left for the train shortly after and a journey back to sunny Munich which was mostly spent in
the buffet car observing the waiter who obviously had one or two pages stuck together. No kit was
left behind on the return leg and all got home with no apparent reports of death or serious injury but
one of severe backside water.
…exactly. Did you know: there’s three croissants in a basket?

MCC Winners Piss Tour

Zuoz International Cricket Festival Switzerland

21-22 June 2008

Back row left to right: Rob Shaw, Paul Scott, Ross Northover, Tony Blades, Mike Wilson, Heather Myers (Scorer), Grant Algar, Majid Rabbani
Front row left to right: Alex Gale, Angus Furlonger, Mark Lovell (c), Daniel Weston (v c), Luke Sobek (Tour Manager), Richard Clare, Mark Palfrey
Participating Teams

Munich CC (Germany)
Basel CC (Switzerland)
Winterthur CC (Switzerland)
Idle CC (Italy)
Lyceum (Switzerland)
Milan CC (Italy)
Campbell Invitation Eleven (England)
Schmock XI (Germany)
With the usual motley crew assembled a four-pronged attack was lined up as the MCC sought to make inroads on the Swiss Mountains for the annual tour of Zuoz. The Hot Dog Van carried the bulk of players from Leopoldstrasse with Algar, Lovo, Gus, Tones, Westy, Majid, Luke (Driver) and Rob who arrived just in time by taxi just as the Doggy was pulling away.

A sensible car also left Munich around the same time with Ross ‘subs now paid’ Northover taking Heather (our fine lady with the book), Clare who apparently was looking to avoid the delights of a potential Dutch Oven and ‘jumpers’ Scott with keg taking up the back seat. The late car departed Italian Job style with the ‘bloody doors on’ in Palfrey’s mini with Gale and 2pot Bolder as passengers. Gilo made his own merry way down in the style of Barry Sheene resplendent in his green motorcycling overalls.

Meanwhile back in the tranny van Algar naively decided to sit up top and act as co-driver. He was unable to play DJ iPod as Lovo, who usually gets what he wants, bellowed instructions from the rear, Gary who? A first ‘Bolder’ like incident/disaster was literally only a couple of hours away as the tranny van got stuck behind a Norwegian Camper van and ‘drives’ Sobek had to ride the brakes downhill for an extended period. This was unfortunately only noticed when toxic fumes were being inhaled for about 15mins. Serious smokage of the brake pads ensued which were crackling with the abuse. Burn baby burn. There is no strength in the scandalous rumour that Sobek was driving with the handbreak on. After a prolonged pit stop the tranny van was however deemed to fit to resume its innings.

After border controls were safely negotiated the Dutch Oven was soon created with Blades looking to grace the MCC garden once again. Maybe this was out of nerves after avoiding near death and said toxic fumes. But the edge definitely needed to be taken off. Even Weston admitted as much.It did not take Tones long to stamp on his authority on the tour with the Queenslander soon in full flow. “I tell ya, they’re all fckin rugby league lovin rednecks in Australia, with their fluffy dice and spoilers”. Strewth Tones. After safe arrival in Zuoz for all parties and check in into the Convict and allocation of room keys, we proceeded to the Dorta – Lovo and Sobek wearing the latest MCC attire – Bumble Bee Dart Shirts. With splinter groups already forming, a few faded left to get straight on the piss in the pub and watch the footy whilst the majority snap-hooked right for a good hearty meal followed by a more traditional piss-up. Some retired to sleep early Lovo (wagon) Westy (due), Bolder (cotton wool), Rob (con call), Heather (pencil sharpening), Ross (jet lag). Bolder’s good intention of getting an early night however was soon doomed to failure after the self-appointed Tour Manager Sobers had provided him with duff logistical info – ‘Mike it is DEFINITELY Room 205!!’ – 2pot spending a restless night on the convict couch and awaking with a stiff………neck. The usual suspects stayed late doors at the Dorta pub and then retired to the Convict to play fast cars with Tones and his gear.

The following morning saw few early risers with most attempting to shake off Swiss p1ss-induced hangovers. 2pot also being particularly bitter at his lack of sleep and demanding a refund from the Tour Mgr for his restless night. The hot ball/cold ball draw scenario took place at 9.15 am and we found ourselves up against the Campbell Invitational XI from London on the Tea Bag Pitch No4. With the game not due to start until 9.45 am, the team members had a quick net confident of starting the Fest with a good performance and a likely afternoon semi-final against Winterthur or Lodi. It was not long before the 12th man Bolder nearly put himself out of the tournament (again). The netting Weston (batting three) cracked a throw down back onto the Kiwi’s shin which soon created a front calf/massive boil/bunyon.

Game 1 – Quarter Final

MCC lost the toss so no surprise there. Palfers and Lovo got the team off to a good start racking up 48 for the first wicket before Lovell fell to dehydration sulkily blaming his wicket on lack of water and the lack of a top on his errant bottle. Alan harshly on the end of this tirade. Palfrey hit a sublime 103 his second century of the season, the first for the club (the other was for the AnzacSaffers – a team no doubt Blades would love to have graced too). The only controversy for the Tasmanian was a claimed catch which apparently was clearly over the boundary according to a few honest onlookers. Clare sporting a new Louisville Lip from a recent hospital visit hit a maiden 50 in a partnership of 91 with Palfrey. MCC posted a solid 232-6 on the smallest of postage stamps.

Onto the bowling and the early breakthrough was made by Scotty only for the loudest of nicks not to be heard by the Dusch umpire. Soon after this the big Geordie’s tour was zu Ende as he picked up a groin injury or similar and was subbed for our already injured 12th man – Bolder. It looked like the game would be a close contest at 79-2 until Gale turned after taking an excellent caught and bowled from their danger batsman. ”See you fvcking later!” bellowed Moo Gale, who was told quickly to apologise by the skipper and shocked umpire – the apology was about as sincere as the captains previous week (after throwing opposition bat 50 yards) At the other end Clare took another three quick sticks and put the game to bed so the skipper turned to Golden Arm Sobers to steam through the last 3 wickets. Ross, not reading the script, dropped the first ball of the hat-trick. Sobek, thinking he would never get a batsman of that calibre again, soon lost his head and asked to be taken off. The skipper knowing best told him to take one more. The reward soon followed when Westy took a catch on the boundary off the last remaining batsman of some calibre. Clare then picked up the two remaining bunnies – ”Did you ever bowl a straight one” -taking middle hob out on both occasions for his first ever ‘Michelle’ for the club to go alongside his maiden 50.

MCC Man of The Match – Mark ‘Sergeant Pepper’ Plafrey

QUARTER FINAL SCORECARD
Game 2 – Semi Final

Onto the semi-final v Winterthur and Bolder was made to sweat for his place being subjected to a lunch time net to prove his elusive fitness. Managing to hide the limp he was duly selected. Those acting lessons worked. MCC won a rare toss and elected to bat first. Winterthur had just come through a close run semi versus the Italians from Lodi. Another good batting performance with the Zuoz freak that is Gale top scoring with 64. There was good support in valuable partnerships all through the batting list. Grunter Algar (30) and Due Weston (26) put on 41 for the 3rd wkt. Lovell and Gale put on 51 for the 5th wkt. Doug and Angus (Chris Cans) made valuable late runs as MCC closed on 213-8 off 30 overs.
Winterthur were starting to threaten our target when the hurricane Gale returned to star with the ball. This included a fine catch running back into the force nine Swiss swirler off his own bowling to remove arguably their best batsmen. There was also a fine stumping from the Perth P1 Glovesman Weston and possibly another one that the Yorkshire umpire ‘praps couldnt see’ from his vantage point asleep on the square leg fence. MCC were rather in a hurry to finish the match as the keg had already been violated by brothers Scott and Shaw. Alas it went the full distance as Palfrey decided he didn’t have to field properly after scoring a ton in the first game – belly flopping towards a lobbed catch on the boundary. Winterthur batted out to finish 28 runs short on 185-6 off their full allocation. Gale was seen taking trainers off with one ball remaining muttering job done – ‘winners p1ss’
MCC Man of The Match – Gale – Suspended ban

SEMI FINAL SCORECARD
Post Semi Final

Jubilation at winning and the MCC savoured their victory ploughing into Scotty’s self-cooling keg. Sobek let himself down somewhat rather naively criticising the still present Yorkshire umpire whilst stood next to him. He quickly made a dash for his golf clubs, having earlier completing a round on the tightest of tight courses during the semi-final. He invited Algar and Lovo to a long drive competition. Duly won by Algar who planted a ball high onto the mountain faced. Face. Facedbook. Looking to further refuel the team went for the now traditional Saturday night Pizza (Alan and Gilo absent – Euro 2008). The only issue this year was MCC seemed to be somewhat geographically challenged and had serious trouble locating it until the Italian chef (out on a smoke break) told them exactly where it was pronto.
A quick nosebag in time to catch the later part of the last quarter final – good old Ruskis beat the dirty Dusch. Westy smuggled in his own Bourbon train. Dastardly. With the final to come the normalos again started to drift off in drib and drabs. This included Shaw and Weston who despite some admirable early spadework were unable to break the will of the 11pm Russian jailbait curfew crew. The usual suspects remained to play darts but the large group of Saffer bouncers wedged in the corner were most unwilling to relinquish control of the board. We did not have a large enough firm there to do any damage – ‘Where’s your tool?’ More pointless drinking ensued (MCC drinking culture) before a leisurely stroll back to the Convict where a nameless trio were last seen in an egg bowling competition. Allegedly one of them was later witnessed suffering 6am puke in the toilet but the unreliable witness (a canted Campbell XI player) was probably having trouble distinguishing orifices.

Game 3 – Final

MCC won the toss, two in a row. Unchartered waters.
On the previous two Zuoz visits we had been comprehensively stuffed by the same opponents after MCC batted first. So Captain Lovell decided to ignore all known cricketing logic and we asked Basel to bat first in the morning dew.

Rob Shaw was all set to step into the side for the final but had to bail after the final XI was announced due to corporate monkey commitments. Ross stepped up to fill void as Giles had an insect bite on his eye and Sobek was asleep after certain early morning activity. A good opening spell from Blades and Algar put pressure on the opening pair. Algar snared the first wicket with an excellent catch from Westy behind stumps (see video link below). Good bowling from everyone especially Algar’s second spell (3-16) as MCC restricted Basel Fawlty to 151 all out off 30overs. There were three excellent catches too for Weston whose keeping all tournament was like Harrods but his batting more like Lidl.

In reply MCC lost two quick wickets with Palfers and Westy going cheaply. Lovo knocked up a leisurely 20 supported by Angus with a well made 19. Clare chipped in with the top score of 42 to go with his 3 sticks. Wilson and Clare Rich putting on a valuable 46 for the 6th wkt as it became sweaty palms or even squeaky bum time.

Edging closer to the target wickets began to fall despite Alans insistence to keep calm. Enter Blades on his comeback for the club at no 10 (Maggies Den) with 8 needed of 2 overs. With the vocal little wicket keeper in his ear asking “Let`s see who’s got the bottle now?” Gale (21*) was still at the crease though and still in his longsleeve sweater as he was all weekend. Replacement tent.

With 4 still needed of the last over Tones hit a streaky leg side two which we all thought was going for the winning runs. Three dot balls followed as Tony swung like a rusty gate. It was now 2 off 2 required. On the penultimate ball Blades swung and missed again and Little Miss Gobby was nutmegged behind the stumps as the ball stayed low and crashed onto the Helmut for five bizarre penalty runs. Couldnt have scripted it Richie. Marvellous.

The MCC won by two wickets 155-8 of 29.5 overs including 5 penalty runs off the Helmut Hoflehner

MCC Man of The Match Clare Rich

FINAL SCORECARD
The successful MCC skipper Mark Lovell picked up the trophy again from the departing school Gamesmaster – George Campbell who has been an excellent host for the last few seasons. We wish him well. MCC were last seen heading back for fresh cans to celebrate the journey home – Winner’s Piss.

Man of the Tournament – Richard E Clare LIP

MCC win Zuoz for third time after 2001, 2003 and now 2008.

Video Highlights

Munich Cricket Club v Basel – Winning Delivery.
Munich Cricket Club v Basel – ct Weston b Algar.
Munich Cricket Club v Basel – Blades LBW Shout.
Tournament Rules

The draw will be held at 9.15 on Saturday 21st.
The tournament starts promptly on Saturday at 9.30 am.
All matches will be of 30 overs per innings, with a maximum of 6 overs per bowler.
The four winning teams from the Saturday morning will go through to the winners’ competition for positions 1-4 on Saturday afternoon and Sunday. The losing teams from Saturday morning play off for positions 5-8.
The games on Sunday will start at 10.00am.
Both sides should provide a scorer.
The fielding side provides their own ball. (must be a 4 piece cricket ball)
No spiked shoes are to be worn on the cricket pitches.