Lord’s dream dashed by Dinton

Park went down by seven wickets in a last 16 tie switched to Dinton after being rained-off at the Walcott Ground a week previously.

Park lost a vital toss and were asked to bat first in damp, swinging conditions. They got off to the worst possible start, losing wickets with the first and third balls of the match.

The innings never really recovered despite useful contributions from Dale Payne (21) and Colin Ayres (14), and late runs by Matt Peters (22 not out) and Cam Flanagan (12), who gave the score an element of respectability at 106-9 from the 40 overs having been 64-8.

Obviously early wickets would be critical to keep the dream alive and when Paul Brookes tempted opener Ash Smith to edge to second slip with just three on the board, it looked like it could happen.

A good catch by Nick Peters gave Bradley Payne his first wicket to leave Dinton 20-2, but some decent attacking play from Henry Woodward and Andy Massey took Dinton to within 15 of victory before Massey was stumped off Peters.

Buckinghamshire outfit Dinton raced to victory on a drying wicket within 19 overs to put an end to Park’s adventure in the national competition for the second year running.

It’s nonetheless been a tremendous run by the club and can only heighten the desire to go further next year. Park wished to say thanks for all the support they’ve received from local clubs and supporters.