Game 10 - against England at Halstead [also Game 11 against Essex]

We travelled from Bedford to Halstead in Essex for the first Test Match against England.

Halstead Cricket Club was founded in 1885.

After the normal warm-up for the Australians, the English players posed for their team photos and then a group photo with the Aussies.

After new Australian players Robin Court and Graeme McIlwain received their baggy green caps, the Australians then had their own team photo.

 Both teams then sang their national anthem.

The Australians won the toss and elected to field and after 50 overs England had made 7 for 237. Colin Cooke had 4 for 33 off his 10 overs supported by Rex Bennett with 2 for 19 off 8 overs. Robin bowled 8 overs - no wickets for 36 runs but the scoring of runs slowed when he was bowling.

 The Australians then batted but could only make 8 for 166 allowing England to win by 71 runs, a disappointing result. England therefore maintained their winning run against Australia.

A large  crowd came to watch the game including many families supporting the English and sometimes the Australian players.

Next day we were back at Halstead for a game against Essex.

Australia batted first and made 6 for 238 off 44 overs when rain finished the innings. The second innings was delayed and the Australians worked to complete the 20 overs to have an official match. The final score, when players were forced to leave the field, was 4 for 97 off 33 overs. Robin and Brian Scott once again slowed down the run rate while picking up a wicket each. Greg Quinn contributed 2 wickets for 37 runs. Australian won on run rate.

Halstead has won prizes for its floral displays and a number of examples were near the cricket ground.