Scintilla win derby day league opener

Emdad Rahman

THE NEW LOOK Scintilla CC opened the new cricket campaign with a win to steal a march on their rivals in what promises to be a close season.

Scintilla – who announced the Human Relief Foundation as a charity partner ahead of the season – are now playing at Oakfield Playing Fields after leaving Goodmayes Park. The team enjoyed a good start as Akib and captain Adil both racked up half centuries against Newham CC.

After the dismissal of both openers Jamil and Tipu built up a good 30 run partnership before Moin Arefin (38) and Yesin (31) set up Rashid – who announced himself with a massive 6 and went on to reach 73 not out alongside Saif, who struck a clinical 54. Yesin scored 31 runs, and a few aggressive hits from Minhaz left Scintilla on 396/7.

Morshad Rahman and Rifat caused some damage with early wickets to put pressure on the Newham batsmen. Rifat was the most economical bowler with 3 maidens in his 5 over spell.

Man of the match Minhaz ensured Scintilla won the local derby with an exceptional 5 wickets in two superb spells.

Captain Adil Ejaz Bhatti commented, “Any game against Newham is always extremely tough, but to do it on the first day and in such fashion really is exceptional. The boys were superb both with the bat and ball today, and it’s all about maintaining momentum and match sharpness. If we can remain discipline and focussed we will make waves again.”

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