Game 2 - against Wiltshire at Goatacre

On 8 June we left early to travel to the village of Goatacre in Wiltshire to play the second match of the tour against Wiltshire Over 60s. The game was hosted by Goatacre Cricket Club.

We were provided with a warm welcome on arrival, not just from club members who allowed us to fly the flag from the balcony,

but also from the neighbours, one of whom decorated his fence with flags.

Before the game started both teams posed for a joint photo opportunity.

Then the game began.

 The pitch at this ground generally provided a good batting wicket and Australia was one for 238 at the end of their innings. David Cordy, John Stackpoole and Graeme McIlwain all retired at 50. Wiltshire was all out for 168 after facing 40 overs. James Martin had the figures of five for 20 from his nine overs.

Robin didn't play in this match so I decided to explore the village of Goatacre. Goatacre Manor looks on to the cricket ground. It is now an aged care facility but the former owner was a farmer who donated his horse paddock for a cricket ground. His grandson was a member of the Wiltshire team.

 There are a number of thatched cottages in the village.

The village is surrounded by farms.

Part of the walk took me along the bridle path through a pretty country side.

At Goatacre's second cricket ground I even met some goats.