After three long years since we last had the pleasure of hosting the team, this last Saturday saw us welcoming back the Surrey Seniors, a UK touring over 60’s side who are out in South Africa for approximately 10 days.
Keeping traditions strong, they were asked to bat first, which they accepted happily.
The two openers were superb, specifically Mr Chris Evans who put on a score of 83 in only 87 balls, while being supported by his fellow teammates on the other end.
Admittedly, we underestimated our opposition and only managed to take 3 wickets (2 for Bruce and 1 for Zak) as they slowly but steadily posted a 199 run total for us to try and chase down.
As they say, catches win matches and unfortunately, Groot Drak were not up to the task, with a few going down. Overall though, a stern effort by everyone in the team with some of us having to consider buying a new set of whites after throwing our bodies all over the ground for 40 overs.
At innings break, the Surrey Seniors did the traditional salute and toast to the Groot Drak flag but even that shot of brandy would not hinder their performance as Groot Drak struggled. The first four wickets fell for only 50 runs.
It was tough going out there with the Surrey Seniors bowling an impressive line and length with most of the Groot Drak batsmen battling to get the ball off the square.
If it wasn’t for a fine Captain’s knock by Craig McNaught, Groot Drak would’ve fallen well short of the target, as he put on a spectacular 58 off just 52.
The tail did attempt a wag but all in all Groot Drak fell short by 18 runs in the second last over.
After a very festive fines meeting in which the Surrey Seniors got stuck in, a great evening was had by all with dinner and a few toasts shared over some great wine thanks to Quintin van der Westhuizen
Always a great touring side to host, we wish the Surrey Seniors all the best for the rest of their tour and look forward to seeing them again very soon!
Thanks to everyone who supported the day out.
Match report by Sean Petzer
