Alex Ross steers Llamas to dramatic victory against Malden Wanderers

Malden Wanderers won the toss and chose to bat on another good Reigate pitch. They started well, putting on 54 for the first wicket before Tom Massey bowled both openers, including crucially the prolific Zac Elkin. The remainder of the innings was categorised by accurate bowling from Reigate and determined batting from Malden, who were able to bat the full allocation of 66 overs. Massey was the pick of the bowlers, taking 4/55 while there were 3 wickets for leg-spinner Michael Munday and 2 wickets for Richard Stevens. Munday also took an unlikely catch in the outfield running in from fine leg.

Malden’s total of 243 all out was challenging, but well within reach if the Llamas could lay the foundations at the top of the order and build partnerships. However early wickets and injudicious shot selection left the Llamas perilously placed at 84/6. Resistance from number 8 Tom Massey in partnership with Alex Ross played Reigate back into the game. Massey has made crucial contributions with bat and ball since coming into the side. His innings of 35 from 44 balls while sharing a partnership of 96 with Ross shifted the momentum of the match, however when he was dismissed there was still much work to do with the score at 180/7. Jacob McLoughlin’s innings of 21 from 23 balls kept the scoreboard moving and 30 runs were required with 2 wickets in hand when he was caught behind. By now Ross had got to grips with the conditions and opposition bowling and was able to manipulate the strike to ensure he faced the majority of deliveries. Despite all 9 fielders being placed in the deep, Ross was still able to find the boundary, striking 2 big sixes towards the Blue Anchor. Number 10 Robin Lines was able to get off strike when necessary and would make the winning hit, striking the 3rd ball of the 53rd over through the covers much to the relief of the home players and supporters.

The plaudits go to Ross who finished on 114* in an innings that was a perfect example of how to bat with the lower order. This was Ross’s first league hundred for the club, adding to a brutal 100 not out made from 38 balls in the T20 cup against Ashtead. Victory by 2 wickets sees Reigate move into joint 3rd place in the league table, only 7 points behind leaders Wimbledon.

Next week sees the return to 50 over white ball fixtures, with the Llamas at home to Sunbury.