Yorkshire (and Lincolnshire) beat Australia at Harrogate

In any given week during the season, there are a frankly staggering array of matches in Yorkshire. I can only cover a fraction but thankfully I get emails from readers all of the time to alert me to interview possibilities, unusual occurrences and eye-catching matches.

So, thanks to John Buttle for flagging up this one – and the photos.

Yorkshire Ridings and Lincolnshire Over 70s defeated the Australian touring team by six wickets at Harrogate Cricket Club on Tuesday.

On a sunny day in the North Yorkshire spa town, Australia’s Over 70s side began with warm-ups which strikes me as impressive as I rarely see it at any level.

The home captain Miles Rawlings lost the toss and so the Aussies had first use of the St George’s Road pitch, opening their account with both openers retiring on 41 and 31 respectively. After that, Kevin Lanigan’s 40 off 41 was the mainstay, around which wickets fell regularly.

John Buttle’s 4-33 was the pick of the Ridings/Lincolnshire 70+ XI; the Gilberdyke CC cricketer picked up two wickets in two balls in his second spell. He missed the hat-trick but did claim the match ball afterwards.

Phil Hall (2-33) and Keith Dent (1-27) were the other wicket-takers.

Australia Over 70s concluded their innings on 173 all out from 45 overs.

In reply, Yorkshire captain Miles Rawlings retired not out on 51 off 41 balls to get things off to a strong start. Mike is having a stellar year with 636 runs at an average of 79 to date.

The home side’s top six all got starts and everyone contributed to keep the score ticking along.

Phil Hall, who also plays for Benwell & Walbottle in the Northumberland and Tyneside Cricket League, played a patient knock (44 not out) to help steer Yorkshire Ridings/Lincolnshire 70+ to a famous victory.

During the game, raffle tickets were sold in aid of the Bob Willis Fund which raises money and awareness for prostate cancer research. I believe there was a selection of some 13 prizes, including a bundle of rhubarb. A sum of £193 was collected for the charity – alongside a famous win.

Scorecard