WOSSY-TER BOWLED OVER
Oxford continue their winning form in the BUSA tournament by giving Worcester what can only be described as a trouncing.
On an overcast day in the Parks, Oxford once again bowled first on a pitch that offered some early assistance to the bowlers.
A lively opening spell by debutant Darren Gerrard saw Worcester being put immediately on the back foot as he picked up 3 wickets to have most of the visitor's top order back in the pavilion with less than 20 on the board. He was well s upported with the new ball by Dan Watson, who picked up a couple of wickets himself. Lachlan Nioboer continued this when he came on first change, and the opponents couldn't handle Nick Lockwood's left arm spin as they continued to struggle up to a meagre total of 83, with only three batsmen hitting double figures. Oxford were very professional in the field, maintaining an intense yet enjoyable atmosphere, and exchanging a few bits of banter with the opposition in the process.
The target of 83 was never going to trouble the strong Blue batting line up, and this was proven in their reply as they set about chasing the runs at a brisk pace. Dan Fox once again showed how he is the model of consistency as he notched up a chanceless 41*, accompanied by newcomer Tom Battarbee, who made a tidy 28* as Oxford romped home in emphatic fashion to win by 10 wickets.
An in- form and confident Oxford side are getting used to winning, and have one game left against Warwick in this BUSA competition; if they win this then they will progress to the semi final stage.
22nd May 2003