December 2017

Saturday league structure, 2018 [posted 31/12/17]

The WDCU Competition Management Committee published the league structure for 2018 yesterday.  The structure is much-changed from that in force in 2017, with only one Reserve division now in existence, the Premier Division Reserve.  NVT Shawholm will play in this division, and NVT Poloc will compete in the Premier Division.  Aside the ten teams playing in the Pemier Division Reserve, the other 2nd XIs of clubs have been “slotted in” to a singular pyramid league structure.  To accommodate promotion and relegation to/from the Premier Division Reserve, and promotion and relegation more generally in the larger pyramid, new promotion and relegation rules have been introduced, in the main – but not exclusively – to address the now more complicated issue of avoiding two or more XIs from the same club being in the same division, and only 1st XIs progressing in to the top two divisions.  More information on the changes can be found online.

Success in the Indoor Super 8s [posted 30/12/17]

The Under 15s finished runners-up today in the Indoor Super 8s, winning one and losing one on their Finals Day.  However the Under 19s, pictured left, went one better and ran out winners of their age-group tournament.  Congratulations to them on their success!

Under 15 indoor Super 8s group stages [posted 28/12/17]

The Under 15s followed in the footsteps of the Under 19s, and qualified for the Finals Day of their indoor tournament today, three wins out of three saw them win the Group B qualifying group and see them through to Saturday afternoon’s Finals Day where they’ll face Clydesdale and the Ferguslie|Kelburne combined side.

Under 19 indoor Super 8s group stages [posted 27/12/17]

The Under 19s qualified for the Finals Day of their indoor tournament today, two wins from their three group stage matches proving enough to see them through to Saturday evening’s finale where they’ll face two Clydesdale sides.

Pythons see off Pollok [sic!] imposters in the tapeball league [posted 19/12/17] The Poloc Pythons were back in tapeball league action again earlier tonight, taking on the Greater Pollok Eagles, and recorded their first win in the new competition.  You can read skipper Irfan Hanif’s latest match report online, on the Tapeball page.

Draw made for the Indoor Super 8s [posted 18/12/17] The ‘Loc Under 15s and 19s know who they’ll be facing in this year’s Indoor Super 8s tournament.  The Under 15s will take on Renfrew, the Ferguslie|Kelburne combined team and a Clydesdale II team on Thursday the 28th of December, their Group B matches starting at 3.15pm.  The Under 19s’ group stage matches are the day before – on the Wednesday the 28th – and see them face Clydesdale II, Clydesdale III and a Ferguslie|Hillhead combined side, their Group B matches starting at 2pm.

Pythons lose again in the tapeball league [posted 15/12/17] The Poloc Pythons were back in tapeball league action again last night, taking on the Asian Tigers side.  You can read skipper Irfan Hanif’s thoughts on the game online, on the new Tapeball page.

Winter indoor cricket [posted 14/12/17]

Indoor cricket continues this Sunday, the 17th of December, at Hutchesons’ Grammar School Sports Hall between 2pm and 4pm.  There are two, one-hour sessions this week, 2pm to 3pm seeing players aged between 11 and 15 (inclusive) in action, before all players aged over 16 are invited for the second hour between 3pm and 4pm.  There will be a £3 per person charge to cover the sports hall hire charge.

Pythons debut in the tapeball league [posted 08/12/17]

The Poloc Pythons started their midweek tapeball league season last night, taking on the Glasgow Giants.  Led by skipper Irfan, the Pythons eight were Aman, Zakir, Amaan, Haroon, Haseeb, Dr. Uzzi, Hunnain and Irfan.  After losing the toss the side mustered just 19 however, a total that the Giants chased down in just over three overs.  So a disappointing result in league game one, but – as they say – it’s a long season!  Next up for the Pythons are the Asian Tigers next Thursday.

Winter indoor cricket [posted 07/12/17]

The ninth winter indoor cricket takes place this Sunday, the 10th of December, at Hutchesons’ Grammar School Sports Hall between 2pm and 4pm.  It’s open to all players aged over 16, and there will be a £5 per person charge to cover the sports hall hire charge.

November 2017

Winter indoor cricket [posted 29/11/17]

Indoor cricket continues this Sunday, the 3rd of December, at Hutchesons’ Grammar School Sports Hall between 2pm and 4pm.  There are two, one-hour sessions this week, 2pm to 3pm seeing players aged between 11 and 15 (inclusive) in action, before all players aged over 16 are invited for the second hour between 3pm and 4pm.  There will be a £3 per person charge to cover the sports hall hire charge.

Winter indoor cricket [posted 19/11/17]

The seventh winter indoor cricket takes place this Sunday, the 26th of November, at Hutchesons’ Grammar School Sports Hall between 2pm and 4pm.  It’s open to all players aged over 16, and there will be a £5 per person charge to cover the sports hall hire charge.

Bobby Hill [19/11/17]

The club was saddened to hear, today, of the passing of Bobby Hill.  Bobby, a stalwart of Kilmarnock Cricket Club, was both well known, and much liked, in west cricket circles and represented Scotland seven times in the 1960s.  After retiring as a player Bobby’s involvement in the game continued, carrying out the roles of Team Manager and Selector of the national team in addition to serving on the Board of the national governing body.  The club’s condolences go to Bobby’s wider family, including his son Alan, and nephew Jim, both still actively involved at Kilmarnock.

Winter indoor cricket [posted 17/11/17]

Indoor cricket continues this Sunday, the 19th of November, at Hutchesons’ Grammar School Sports Hall between 2pm and 4pm.  There are two, one-hour sessions this week, 2pm to 3pm seeing players aged between 11 and 15 (inclusive) in action, before all players aged over 16 are invited for the second hour between 3pm and 4pm.  There will be a £3 per person charge to cover the sports hall hire charge.

Remembrance [posted 10/11/17]

The club, as it does annually at this time of year, remembers those of its former members, and their families and friends, who lost their lives in conflicts both at home and abroad.  The club’s war memorial occuppies a prominent position in the entrance way to the clubhouse and lists the names of twenty people who fell in the Great War and in World War II. More on the memorial, and the names of the fallen, can be found online.

Western Warriors winter squad selections [posted 09/11/17] The Western Warriors have announced a number of winter training squads, and the club’s well represented.  In the Under 14 squad James Cathcart, Hassaan Mehmood and Samee Mehmood have been selected. The Development squad sees Taimoor Ahmad, Ahmed-Raza Hanif, Amaan Ramzan and Uzzair Shah all included.  And the senior Warriors training squad features Ihtisham Malik, Abdul Sabri, Owais Shah, Jurie Snyman, Hamza Tahir and Craig Young.  Congratulations to all these players.

Thriving Clubs programme [posted 07/11/17]

The club’s General Committee met with Cricket Scotland’s West Regional Participation Manager Tim Hart last night in the latest engagement between the club and the national governing body’s participation team as part of our involvement in the Thriving Clubs initiative.

Winter indoor cricket [posted 06/11/17]

The fifth winter indoor cricket takes place this Sunday, the 12th of November, at Hutchesons’ Grammar School Sports Hall between 2pm and 4pm.  It’s open to all players aged over 16, and there will be a £5 per person charge to cover the sports hall hire charge.

Muhammad Dar in action for KRL [posted 02/11/17]

Muhammad Dar is currently in Pakistan playing cricket over the winter period, and is action for Khan Research Labs in their latest Quaid-e-Azam Trophy Pool B match against Pakistan Television in Rawalpindi.  You can follow Mo‘s progress in the four-day game on ESPNcricinfo’s scorecard page.

October 2019

Winter indoor cricket [posted 31/10/17]

Indoor cricket continues this Sunday, the 5th of November, at Hutchesons’ Grammar School Sports Hall between 2pm and 4pm.  There are two, one-hour sessions this week, 2pm to 3pm seeing players aged between 11 and 15 (inclusive) in action, before all players aged over 16 are invited for the second hour between 3pm and 4pm.  There will be a £3 per person charge to cover the sports hall hire charge.

2pm to 3pm :: Under 16 (ages 11 to 15)

3pm to 4pm :: Over 16 (older juniors and seniors) 

Winter indoor cricket [posted 25/10/17]

The third winter indoor cricket takes place this Sunday, the 29th of October, at Hutchesons’ Grammar School Sports Hall between 2pm and 4pm.  It’s open to all players aged over 16, and there will be a £5 per person charge to cover the sports hall hire charge.

Winter indoor cricket [posted 20/10/17]

Indoor cricket continues this Sunday, the 22nd of October, at Hutchesons’ Grammar School Sports Hall between 2pm and 4pm.  There are two, one-hour sessions this week, 2pm to 3pm seeing players aged between 11 and 15 (inclusive) in action, before all players aged over 16 are invited for the second hour between 3pm and 4pm.  There will be a £3 per person charge to cover the sports hall hire charge.

2pm to 3pm :: Under 16 (ages 11 to 15)

3pm to 4pm :: Over 16 (older juniors and seniors) 

Barrowland Ballet Co. [posted 18/10/17]

We’re delighted to be helping Barrowland Ballet Co. (@Barrowlballet) this week as they use Pollok Park for their exciting school holiday week activities.  The ballet company, led by General Manager Nicola Denman, will be using the clubhouse as a base from Wednesday through to Sunday and so if you’re in and around “Shawholm” this week be sure to say hello.

Winter indoor cricket [posted 11/10/17]

The first winter indoor cricket takes place this Sunday, the 15th of October, at Hutchesons’ Grammar School Sports Hall between 2pm and 4pm.  It’s open to all players aged over 16, and there will be a £5 per person charge to cover the sports hall hire charge.

September 2017

Under 13s finish runners-up [posted 16/09/17]

The Under 13s finished a good season, that saw them reach the Finals Day of both the Scottish Cup and League, this afternoon at Meikleriggs by finishing runners-up in the league after defeat to Clydesdale in the league Finals Day final.  After beating Glasgow Accies by 11 runs in a closely-fought semi-final, the side then couldn’t make it three wins in a row in 2017 against their near-neighbours from Crossmyloof, going down by four wickets in a low-scoring final.  In both matches it’s fair to say that the batters struggled, only Abdullah (32* against Glasgow Accies) making a telling contribution with the bat.  Momin – with two 6s – also made a cameo score in the final after the top order had failed, but these two aside it was a day for the bowlers.  And there were some good bowling performances: Jamesy returned 3.2-0-14-4 in the semi-final and 2 for 12 in the final, whilst Ubaid-Raza’s bowling in the final was the standout bowling performance in that match, Raza returning figures of 4-2-5-1.  But the bowlers’ efforts wouldn’t quite be enough to get the batters out of jail twice and so the side had to be content with a runners-up spot.  Plenty to be pleased with though over a long [Ed: a wet!] season, and still lots of ptential in this group of young players.  And, congratulations to Clydesdale on their win.

Under 13s in Finals Day action [posted 14/09/17]

The Under 13s’ league season finishes this Saturday with their involvement Finals Day.  Their match with Glasgow Accies is at 1.45pm, the winner then taking on the winner of the other play-off semi-final between Clydesdale and Glasgow Accies. Good luck to the Under 13s.

Scotland A selection [posted 12/09/17]

The club’s delighted and proud that Ihtisham Malik and Owais Shah have been selected for the Scotland A side to take on a Kent/Northants combined 2nd XI side in a three-day game starting today.  Good luck to both players.

Washed away…..again! [posted 08/09/17]

Of course, tonight’s Under 13 League Cup semi-final against Ferguslie was cancelled!  Why wouldn’t it be, like almost every other match in the last month.  The ground at Meikleriggs was, like Shawholm, simply too wet to allow play.

Cancellation [posted 04/09/17]

Tonight’s junior practice (Under 10 and 11) and the rearranged Under 13 league match against the Irvine|Kilmarnock combined side are both off because of the wet weather.

Under 18s slump to semi-final defeat [posted 03/09/17]

The Under 18s took on Carlton today in the first semi-final of the Scottish Cup, on Finals Day at Titwood.  However the side wouldn’t progress any further in the competition as they unperformed on the day to end up losing by 44 runs to their Edinburgh opponents.  We’ve got the scorecard online, as well as a short match report, and updated Under 18 statistics and averages.

Representative selection [posted 02/09/17]

Ihtisham Malik and Owais Shah have been selected for the Western Warriors squad to take on the Eastern Knights in the final CS T20 Blitz match of the season on Sunday in Edinburgh.  With the club’s Under 18 side in Scottish Cup Finals Day action on the same day, we’re grateful for the Warriors‘ management subsequently releasing Owais to play for the club.

August 2017

Under 18s win on the north side [posted 31/08/17]

A match finally beat the weather!  And it was the Under 18s who were the lucky side, getting their rescheduled away league fixture at New Anniesland played this evening.  The first match between the sides was abandoned back in mid-summer, but tonight’s game was blessed with pleasant Autumn sunshine and saw a competitive game played out in a reduced eighteen-overs-a-side contest.  We’ve got the scorecard online, as well as a short match report on the Under 18s’ 28-run win, and updated statistics and averages and league tables.

Progression in the Scottish Cup [posted 30/08/17]

The Under 18s will appear in the Scottish Cup Finals Day this Sunday after getting past Greenock on the toss of a coin, their quarter-final tie again being beaten by the weather today at the nth go of trying!  They will play Carlton in the semi-final at Titwood, starting at 10.45am.

Representative selection [posted 30/08/17]

Congratulations to ihtisham Malik and Owais Shah on selection for a Scotland Development XI to play Durham CCC 2nd XI in two one-day matches this week.

More rain = more cancellations! [posted 28/08/17]

Both tonight’s junior league matches have been cancelled due to the persistent rain.  Also off is Under 11 practice.

Panthers and Academy both win [posted 27/08/17]

Today saw both Sunday League sides in action, the Panthers seeing off Ayr by 108 runs at Shawholm, and the Academy side defeating Uddingston at Bothwell Castle Policies.  The Panthers‘ total of 211 for 6 saw a number of contributions, Aman with 48 not out the biggest of these.  Also getting past the “name in the ‘paper” 30 were Murtaza, Hassan and Graeme.  Then in comfortably defending their total there was a “3-for” for Abid who rolled his arm over to clean up the visitors’ tail.

Over in Uddingston meanwhile the Academy was recording an equally convincing win, defeating their hosts by eight wickets.  Ihty – bowling “chinamen” – grabbed a “3-for”, [Ed: two courtesy of good grabs in the deep from Raza] as Uddingston were skittled out for 119.  Then in the run-chase Abdul led from the top of the order batting through for an unbeaten 46 to see the side home with a bundle of overs in hand.  We’ve got the scorecard online (here and here), as well as updated statistics and averages and league tables.

The ‘Loc lose a close one [posted 26/08/17]

Unfortunately the Shawholm against Nunholm match went the way of every other match in Glasgow today, i.e. it was washed out!  The match at The Tryst, and two in Dumfries were played however, and one of the two played in border country saw the ‘Loc take on Dumfries.  On a soft, green, bowler-friendly track the ‘Loc were invited to bat after losing the toss.  Quickly in trouble at 34 for 3, 52 from Timmy and a flurry of bunting from Abdul (35), that included three 6s, were important in the side eventually posting 170 for 7.

Then in defending their total the side had their hosts in similar trouble early on, Dumfries slipping to 54 for 3 in the sixteenth over.  However a key 84-run partnership between Bellwood and Forsyth saw the pair wrench the momentum back in their side’s favour.  But then, when the pair were separated on 138, the jitters set in and Dumfries lost four wickets for 19 runs.  But the clatter of wickets would be just too little too late as Dumfries reached their target in the 47th over.  For the ‘Loc the wickets were spread around, Asad rolling his arm over and taking a brace of wickets as six bowlers were used.  In the aftermath of losing a close one, the side gifting Dumfries 24 in wides and no balls would, again, be an area of regret.  We’ve got the scorecard online (here), as well as updated statistics and averages, league tables.

Weekend matches [posted 25/08/17]

With tonight’s Under 15 league match with Stenhousemuir washed out this afternoon, the weekend’s fixtures now number six.  Saturday’s two senior men’s league matches see the club taking on Dumfries, the ‘Loc down in border country, and Nunholm visiting Shawholm.  Then on Sunday the Academy go to Uddingston on Sunday League duty, whilst – in the same competition – the Panthers entertain Ayr.  Four down, two to go.  And the two to go are the Under 13s’ and under 18s’ league matches against the Dark Side on Monday.

Friday’s match washed out [posted 25/08/17]

This evening’s rescheduled Under 15 match with Stenhousemuir was called off this afternoon with persistent leaving playing the game impossible.

Under 11s left frustrated [24/08/17]

The Under 11 sides from both Poloc and East Kilbride were all present and correct, and kitted out, this evening, ready for their rescheduled league match,…..then it rained!  Of course it did!  Unfortunately it rained and didn’t stop, and yet another match was washed away.

Under 13 and 18 matches off [posted 21/08/17]

Tonight’s scheduled Under 13 match against Weirs has been called off, the Albert Park club conceding the match. Also off is the Under 18 match against the Greenock|Helensburgh combined team, the combined side, like Weirs, being unable to raise a team.

Bowl out exit [posted 20/08/17]

The ‘Loc bowed out of the Western Union Cup today, losing out in a bowl out to Clydesdale.  1-0 was the bowl out score with Krishna the only bowler to hit the wooden things 20-odd yards away.  The ‘Loc missers [Ed: is that a word?] were – in order – Abdul, Timmy, LJ, Owais and Ihty.  The bowl out was resorted to – with today the last date allowed to get the tie decided – because of an unfit bowler’s run up at the Burrell End of the ground.  A compromise proposal to play a T20 with all overs bowled from the Cart End wasn’t agreed to by enough of the players to make it a go’er, with the umpires willing to run with that, and so a bowl out it was.

Yup, you guessed it….. [posted 19/08/17]

Today’s Saturday, so it rained,…..and rained some more.  So both matches were off.  ‘nough said.

Panthers win a thriller [posted 15/08/17]

The Panthers were in rescheduled Evening League action this evening, hosting West of Scotland’s “Hamilton Crescent” XI.  Batting first the Panthers posted an impressive 129 for 2 in a match reduced to eighteen overs-a-side with “the nights drawing in”, albeit the match was played in glorious late summer sunshine.  The big total owed much to Murtaza’s unbeaten 66* (57) and Dr Uzzi‘s 36 not out (33).  West‘s run-chase, in search of 130, then went off like a train and they were ahead of their required run-rate for all but a couple of overs.  Crucially those overs were the last two!  And in fact the result was pretty much in doubt right until the end.  That final over – bowled by Dr Uzzi – started with the visitors needing just 6 runs to win, with “Overseas Amateur” Boller in the middle and going well.  However the first three balls were all dots [Ed: the first time there’d been three consecutive dots in the entire innings!], followed by Robinson being dismissed, caught behind by Amaan.  Now it was 6 needed from two.  Ball five went for 3, meaning 3 were needed from the last ball.  Ball six though was called wide, and with the batters scampering through it was Boller on strike with 1 needed to win.  Ball six [Ed: or seven, take your pick!] was,……a wicket!  Boller yorked by Dr Uzzi to see West finish on 129 for 5.  Scores tied, but the Panthers taking the win on fewer wickets lost.  Great drama.

We’ve got the scorecard online (here), as well as updated statistics and averages.  Our intrepid Panthers reporter has also penned their thoughts on the match.  Sit back and enjoy…..

Representative honours [posted 14/08/17]

This week again sees a number of the club’s young players involved in age-group representative action.  Taimoor Ahmad, Ihtisham Malik and Owais Shah have been included in the Scotland Under 19 squad to play NUSC-CC down in the north-east of England, and Amaan Ramzan and Uzzair Shah are with the Scotland Under 17 squad in Cork, playing Ireland in the Celtic Cup.  And back nearer home, Abtaha Maqsood has again been selected for Scotland Women for the regional qualifier for the next ICC Women’s WT20, the matches against the USA and The Netherlands being played at Stirling, whilst Sohaib Shah is with the Scotland Under 15s as they take on Leicestershire & Rutland at Meikleriggs.

Wash outs [posted 14/08/17]

Both today’s scheduled junior matches were washed out by the continuing wet weather.

Under 13s finish third [posted 13/08/17]

The Under 13s took third place in today’s Scottish Cup Finals Day, defeating Huntly in the third/fourth place play-off.  The 5-run win came after the side had lost by seven wickets (albeit in the seventeenth over) to eventual winners Carlton.  Congratulations to the Under 13s, and Coaches Jurie Snyman and David James, pictured below, on their good run in the competition.  Tomorrow sees the youngsters back in league action, with a scheduled trip to New Cambusdoon to take on Ayr.

So near yet so far [posted 12/08/17]

Shawholm so very nearly saw off the challenge of Partick today in a thriller in the park.  Batting first Shawholm posted 159, the final wicket falling on the last ball of the final over (the match reduced to 49 overs-a-side).  The fact 160 was set as a target owed much to Hunnain’s 39 at the top of the order, and cameos from Dr. Uzzi (24), Graeme (25) and Habib (25).  Defending their total, the Shawholm bowlers had Partick in trouble at 49 for 5 at one stage, before a mid-innings partnership put Partick back in charge.

Credit the side for hanging in there though, and when wickets again started falling the pendulum began to swing just a tad back in Shawholm’s favour.  But it wasn’t to be as Partick reached the winning post eight down.  Greame had a “3-for”, with Habib picking up a brace of wickets.  We’ve got the scorecard online (here), as well as updated statistics and averages.

Cancelled [posted 12/08/17]

The East Kilbride versus Poloc Premier Division match at Torrance House was called off today before a ball was bowled, or a coin tossed.  The persistent, and at times heavy, rain that fell for around two hours from around 11.30am on to an already saturated ground decided the matter, this despite the best efforts and hard work of East Kilbride’s players and ground staff.

Under 11s and 15s rained off [posted 11/08/17]

This evening’s Under 11 match against East Kilbride has failed to beat the weather, today’s persistent rain leaving the wicket unplayable. Going the same way was the Under 15s’ trip to Whitehaugh.

Weekend matches [posted 11/08/17]

East Kilbride are the Under 11s’ opponents tonight in the Under 11 League, whilst the Under 15s travel to Whitehaugh to play the Ferguslie|Kelburne combined side.  Saturday’s two senior men’s fixtures see the ‘Loc take on East Kilbride at Torrance House, and Shawholm host Partick.  Both have 12 noon starts.  Sunday’s action is the rescheduled Under 13 Scottish Cup Finals Day in Edinburgh, the club’s Under 13s taking on Carlton at Inverleith starting at 11am.  The weekend’s action is then completed with the Under 13s and Under 18s both in league action on Monday.

The ‘Loc come up short in the McCulloch Cup final [posted 09/08/17]

Less than 24 hours after winning their semi-final, the ‘Loc were at Bothwell Castle policies tonight, taking on Ayr in the McCulloch Cup final.  But they couldn’t repeat the win of last night and would finish up losing out by 15 runs after getting bowled out for 103 in the last over – in near darkness – chasing 119 to win. We’ve got the scorecard online, as well as updated statistics and averages, and a short match report.

Cup final appearance booked [posted 08/08/17]

The ‘Loc finally got their three-times postponed McCulloch Cup semi-final with Greenock played this evening, and in glorious sunshine at that.  The visitors won the toss and batted first, but were kept in check by a good all-round bowling performance, backed up by an eager fielding display.  Ihty was the pick of the bowlers returning 4-0-14-3, Jurie and LJ also picking up a brace of wickets.  Seven down, Greenock would finish on 86.

The ‘Loc‘s run-chase was nearly as well executed as the first half performance had been, the win being secured in the sixteenth over, for the loss of just two wickets, Jurie unbeaten on 39*.

The win sees the side progress to the final, where Ayr await, the match being played at Uddingston’s Bothwell Castle Policies tomorrow evening, August the 9th.  6.15pm start.  We’ve got the scorecard online, as well as updated statistics and averages, and video highlights.

Rescheduled Evening League matches [posted 07/08/17]

With tonight’s McCulloch Cup match being postponed yet again, and rescheduled for tomorrow night, Tuesday’s scheduled Evening League matches have been postponed for a week.

Another wash out…..or two [posted 07/08/17]

The weather curse that was put on Poloc versus Greenock matches struck again today as torrential afternoon rain left the ground flooded (see left), and the McCulloch Cup semi-final postponed. That’s the third time it’s been scheduled and postponed!  The two clubs will try again tomorrow evening. Also off is the Under 13 League match at Bothwell Castle Policies.

Representative honours [posted 06/08/17]

Next weeks sees a number of the club’s youngsters involved in representative cricket action again.  Zakir Siddiqui’s been selected for the Western Warriors Under 14 side’s match against Belfast Under 14 on Monday.  The same day Sohaib Shah starts a week of Celtic Cup action for Scotland Under 15s against Ireland, at New Cambusdoon.  Tuesday and Wednesday then sees Amaan Ramzan and Uzzair Shah and the Scotland Under 17 squad play Lincolnshire, down south.

Looking further ahead, Taimoor Ahmad, Ihtisham Malik and Owais Shah have been included in the Scotland Under 19 squad to play NUSC-CC in the week commencing the 14th of August .

Wash outs [posted 06/08/17]

Both today’s scheduled matches were washed out.  At Titwood the Western Union Cup semi-final against Clydesdale never got beyond a coin toss, whilst at Shawholm [Ed: much to the dismay of the groundsman!] 17.4 overs were bowled in the Academy’s Sunday League match with Victoria before common sense prevailed and the game was abandoned, the Academy 87 for 2.

Under 13s Finals Day postponed [posted 05/08/17]

The Under 13 Scottish Cup Finals Day in Edinburgh tomorrow was postponed early on Saturday after the ground at Inverleith struggled to recovere from recent wet weather, and given a poor Sunday weather forecast.

Back-to-back double defeat Saturdays [posted 05/08/17]

Back-to-back double defeat Saturdays are pretty bad, however they’re even worse when the defeats are to the Dark Side!  And so it was today as both senior Saturday sides slumped to defeats to their Clydesdale counterparts.  At Shawholm the ‘Loc appeared to have Clydesdale on the ropes when the Crossmyloof Crusaders were – first – 17 for 3, then 119 for 7.  However an 103* (103) from Basit Ali – batting at seven, and whose previous season high was 22 – swung the pendulum firmly back in his side’s favour.

Ali was ably supported by Calum Drummond – batting at eight, and batting for the first time in five matches this season – who made 38 in a 102-run partnership.  Bonkers really.  But credit to the pair as the ‘Loc simply couldn’t think how to get them out.  Then in the run chase things start badly and never really recovered, 43 for 4 seeing all top four batters gone.  Asad, with 60 (94), did see the side to a losing batting point, but his innings aside, and though better than seven days previously, it was another batting horror show.

Over at Toytown meanwhile things were little better.  Batting first the Shawholm side were skittled for 90, with only two batters reaching double figures.  Then their hosts rattled off the required runs, just two down, inside eighteen overs.  Ouch!  We’ve got the scorecards online (here and here), as well as updated statistics and averages, league tables.

Mixed fortunes [posted 04/08/17]

The Under 11s went down to a narrow defeat against Weirs this evening at Albert Park, whilst – at the same time – the Under 15s were securing a win against a visiting Renfrew|West of Scotland combined side at Shawholm.  The defeat at Albert Park in the mini-mini-minor southside derby did however see Musa Rana notch up a nice “3-for”, but it would be in vain as the side lost by 12 runs in the run-chase.  At Shawholm the Under 15s’ win owed much to Abdul Malik’s 43, the biggest component of the 90 for 4 that was recorded to secure a six-wicket win.

We’ve got the scorecards online, as well as updated statistics and averages.

Weekend action [posted 04/08/17]

This weekend’s yet another busy one.  Friday is juniors night, the Under 11s going to Albert Park, and the Under 15s at home.  Saturday’s two senior men’s fixtures see the ‘Loc take on the Dark Side.  The same opposition then host the ‘Loc at Toytown on Sunday in the Western Union Cup semi-final, whilst the Academy host Victoria in the Sunday League.  And both these afternoon matches follow the Under 13s’ appearance at the Under 13 Scottish Cup Finals Day at Inverleith in Edinburgh, where the draw saw them slated to play Carlton.  And if that’s not enough, Monday night sees a final match on a busy weekend, the Under 13s again in action, this time taking on the East Kilbride|Uddingston side in the league.

The Under 13s make it to Finals Day [posted 03/08/17]

The Under 13s booked themselves a date at inverleith on Sunday, and the Under 13 Scottish Cup Finals Day.  Slated to take on Edinburgh club Carlton in the semi-final, the side booked their berth with a win over Ferguslie this evening in the “quarters”.  Batting first, a steady start was the foundation for eventually posting 83 for 7, Abdullah top-scoring with 22.  However the side would’ve hoped to post a bigger total, but the middle order struggled to keep the scoreboard ticking over, tight bowling and wickets falling at regular intervals preventing an acceleration towards the end of the innings.  Defending 83 was always likely to need the side to bowl out their opponents, and so it was as Ferguslie were dismissed for 73, James with a “4-for”.  A good win then, and Sunday to look forward to.  We’ve got the scorecard online, as well as updated statistics and averages.

Evening League defeat [posted 01/08/17]

Tonight’s two scheduled Evening League matches became one mid-afternoon when Glasgow Accies contacted the club to say their New Anniesland ground was unplayable.  This left tonight’s visit by Kelburne; the Academy their hosts.  Batting first the Academy posted a competitive 122 for 6, with Timmy top-scoring with 49 (60), Uzzi (17) and Abdullah (14*) also chipping in with useful contributions.  The visitors’ successful run-chase then centred on overseas player Joynt’s 68 (52), Abdullah picking up the two wickets to fall.

We’ve got the scorecard online, as well as updated statistics and averages.

July 2017

Under 18s beat Glasgow Accies [posted 31/07/17]

The Under 18s entertained Glasgow Accies this evening, and ran out out 74-run winners over the northside club.  Batting first the ‘Loc posted 139 for 4, with the two Amaans top-scoring: Rambo with 44, and Amaan Ali with 38.  Then in the second innings, after early breakthroughs by skipper Timmy [Ed: both with slower deliveries!] Ahmed-Raza cleaned up the tail in double-quick time, taking an extraordinary “4 in 4” to see the visitors bowled out for 65.

We’ve got the scorecard online, as well as updated statistics and averages.

Representative honours [posted 31/07/17]

Some of the clubs junior players continue to win representative honours.  Sohaib Shah was selected for the Western Warriors Under 15s yesterday, though the inter-regional T20 tri-series was washed out without a ball being bowled.  Meantime down south Abtaha Maqsood was playing in a couple of T20s for Scotland Women against Essex and Nottinghamshire, this at the same time as Ihtisham Malik and Owais Shah were involved with Scotland Under 19s in the latest ICC U19 CWC qualifiers, in Jersey.  Well done to all these players.

Looking forward to the rest of the week, Abtaha will be involved in the Celtic Cup matches against Ireland Women at Forthill, whilst Jurie Snyman and Hamza Tahir were both selected in an initial Rest of Scotland XI to play a Scotland Select XI in Edinburgh tomorrow.  Jurie has, however, pulled out, and Abdul Sabri, another of the club’s players, has been called up.

Day to forget [posted 29/07/17]

It was absolutely a day to forget as both Saturday league sides slumped to defeats, both under DLS, and both after having to battle through rain on yet another rotten Scottish summer’s day.  At Shawholm another very young Shawholm side lost by 20 runs under DLS, after their innings – originally chasing 186 to beat St. Ninian’s – was cut short after 25 overs.  Meanwhile at the Henry Thow Oval, the ‘Loc slumped to a horror-story of a 160-run defeat, again under DLS, to Prestwick after an abject performance with bat and ball.

We’ve got the scorecards online (here and here), as well as updated statistics and averages, league tables and video highlights of the game.  A short match report on the debacle that was the game down on the coast is also online, parental guidance being advised!

Weekend action [posted 28/07/17]

The weekend’s action should have started with both Under 11 and Under 15 matches, however the 11s’ hosting of Kilmarnock has been cancelled at the Ayrshire club’s request.  The Under 15s however have a trip to Glenpark to play the Greenock|Helensburgh combined side.  Moving into Saturday, there are home and away Saturday league matches against Prestwick scheduled, the ‘Loc travelling to the coast and Shawholm hosting St. Ninian’s.  Then on Sunday the club again hosts the Murgitroyd T20 Finals Day, featuring Clydesdale, Dumfries, Forfarshire and Watsonian’s.  The weekend’s action is then completed with Glasgow Accies Under 18s’ visit to Shawholm on Monday evening.

The Under 13s progress in the Scottish Cup [posted 27/07/17]

The Dark Side was defeated this evening at Toytown as the Under 13s completed a rare double of their nearest rivals in the Scottish Cup.  Batting first the Under 13s posted 125 with Hassaan Mehmood leading the way at the top of the order with a retiral-inducing 30 not out.  There were cameos from others in the top and middle orders too, before the side capitalised on some Keystone Cops running between the wickets by their hosts to secure the win.  No fewer than four run outs were executed in the Clydesdale reply, this after the Titwood youngsters had generously gifted two lots of 4-run overthrows during the ‘Loc‘s innings.  That sort of thing usually happens to us!  Anyway, the win was secured, and Ferguslie – it’s believed – await the side in the next round.  We’ve got the scorecard online, as well as updated statistics and averages.

Greenwood Cup exit [posted 27/07/17] The Panthers slumped to a horrible defeat in tonight’s Greenwood Cup quarter-final against East Kilbride.  After limiting their visitors to 123 in the first innings, the Panthers were then skittled out for just 50, with Hamza, batting at ten, scoring 20 of them.  The top four – comprising established players – all failed, scoring just 15 between them, followed by a collapse of epic standards thereafter, save for Hamza.

We’ve got the Certificate 18 scorecard online, as well as updated statistics and averages.

Representative honours [posted 25/07/17]

Amaan Ramzan and Uzzair Shah have both been in action for Scotland Under 17 yesterday and today, the two playing in the two-day game against Northumberland – congratulations to both players.

Evening League defeats [posted 25/07/17]

Monday night’s two junior league wins were followed by a couple of Evening League losses tonight, as both the Academy (at home to Renfrew) and the Panthers (at Whitehaugh) slipped to defeat.  The Academy suffered the batting yips as they were skittled for just 79 batting first, whilst the Panthers were only five down, but unfortunately 9 runs short, when time was called on their run-chase over in Paisley.  We’ve got the scorecards online (here and here), as well as updated statistics and averages.

Two straight-forward wins [posted 24/07/17]

Both the Under 13s and Under 18s recorded straight-forward wins over the East Renfrewshire|Renfrew combined sides this evening, the Under 13s winning by 64 runs at home, and the Under 18s by ten wickets away, in Renfrew.  The Under 13s’ total of 166 for 1 saw four batters – Hassaan, Abdullah, Samee and James – all score 28 not out or more, three retiring.  Whilst at King George V Playing Fields, Amaan and Uzzi saw the Under 18s home in under eight overs, chasing the 66 needed for the win.

We’ve got the scorecards online, as well as updated statistics and averages.

The ‘Loc progress to the Western Union Cup semi-finals [posted 23/07/17]

The ‘Loc won by 8 runs this afternoon in a nail-biter of a quarter-final tie against Greenock, down at Glenpark.  Having been bowled out inside their 40-over allocation by their hosts, the ‘Loc defended their total of 168, in turn dismissing Greenock for 160.  Undoubtedly MoTM was Taimoor with 73 and then a “4-for”.  However in what was a real team effort, there were important contributions from a number of others.  Humza took a “3-for” with the ball, whilst Abdullah and Sobo on 1st XI competitive debuts both equipped themselves really well.

With so many players unavailable this weekend through national age-group and senior representative selection, holiday and injury, it was really pleasing to see such an inexperienced side cope so well in such a tight match, against full-strength Premier Division opposition.  Clydesdale await in the semi-final, the match likely being played on 6 August.  We’ve got the scorecard online, as well as updated statistics and averages.

New memorial bench [posted 23/07/17] A new memorial bench was put in place this week at Shawholm.  In memory of Tommy Robertson, former Captain and President of the club, the bench, gifted by his family, is positioned in front of the clubhouse, from where Tom enjoyed watching Poloc play over many years.

Omar Henry visit [posted 23/07/17] Omar Henry, the club’s professional between 1980 and 1985 (inclusive) was a visitor to Shawholm today, taking the chance of being in Scotland visiting his son Riyaad who is playing at Ferguslie this season, to meet up with some of his teammates and other club members from 30 years ago.  Pictured left, the group enjoyed catching up on old times in the clubhouse despite there being no cricket watch after the match with Ayr was rained off.

Washed away, and frustrated [posted 22/07/17]

The ‘Loc‘s home league fixture with Ayr went the way of most today, being called off around noon with little prospect of play.  A couple of matches did start in the division, but didn’t get too far: Ferguslie and Clydesdale seeing their match abandoned, and the same happening at both Nunholm in the match between Dumfries and East Kilbride, and in the Prestwick versus Uddingston game.  One match did survive however and that saw Greenock lose to Kelburne.  The Shawholm side’s game at New Cambusdoon also got started before being curtailed ten overs in to the side’s reply to Cambusdoon’s 255 for 7.  Play then resumed after a near three-hour delay at the home side’s insistence, eventually ending just before 8pm.

Big win for 15s, but the 11s go down [posted 21/07/17]

The Under 11s lost out in a close match to East Renfrewshire this evening at Shawholm, the club’s youngest side performing really well. In the pairs match where the side matched their opponents in terms of runs scored off the bat, and bowled fewer wides and no balls, it was only because of losing four more wickets that the Under 11s went down to defeat.  Standout performances, with bat and ball respectively, came from Abhay (15*) and Musa (3-1-2-1).

Meanwhile over at New Anniesland the Under 15s were winning easily against their Glasgow Accies hosts.  And this game will be remembered for Sohaib Shah’s 133 (65 balls).  Sobo‘s innings takes him to the top of the Junior honours board rankings, and means that he joins big brother Owais as a Poloc junior centurion.  Well batted.  In the Glasgow Accies’ reply Zakir took a “3-for”.  We’ve got the scorecards online, as well as updated statistics and averages.

Weekend action [posted 21/07/17]

This weekend’s yet another busy one, starting with this evening’s Under 11 and Under 15 matches.  The 11s host East Renfrewshire, whilst the 15s go to Glasgow Accies.  Tomorrow’s two senior men’s Saturday league matches see matches against Ayr.  The ‘Loc are at home, the Shawholm side goes to New Cambusdoon.  Sunday then sees two more matches: the latest attempt to play the oft’-cancelled Western Union Cup quarter-final against Greenock at Glenpark, and the Panthers  travelling to Hamilton Crescent.  Monday’s two junior matches bring the weekend action to a close: the Under 13s hosting the East Renfrewshire|Renfrew combined team, and the Under 18s playing away against the same side.

Abandoned…..again! [posted 19/07/17]

Tonight’s Greenwood Cup quarter-final tie with East Kilbride got further than a week ago when the first attempt to play was abandoned in the second over.  However it didn’t get that much further, rain seeing the match abandoned after seventeen overs of the first innings this time round.  The sides will try again at the next mutually-agreeable date.

Evening League bragging rights for the Academy [posted 18/07/17]

The Academy side comprehensively thumped the Panthers this evening, and in so doing, gained revenge for their earlier Evening League defeat to the Panthers in the same competition.  Batting first the Academy racked-up 153 for 1, with Taimoor top-scoring with an unbeaten 78, and Rambo scoring a cameo 39.  The Panthers in reply were never in with a chance as early, and then regular, wickets saw them bundle out for just 76, Robert and Amaan both with “3-fors”.

We’ve got the [Ed: same!] scorecards online (here and here), as well as updated statistics and averages.

Under 13 win in Ayrshire [posted 17/07/17]

The Under 13s were in league action this evening in Kilmarnock, and four retirals from the batters saw them post 151 for 1 batting first against the Irvone|Kilmarnock combined side.  This proved more than enough as they then restricted their hosts to 74 for 6.  The batters retiring were Samee (30*), Hassaan (34*), Hasan (31*) and Abdullah (30*).  Then in the second innings there were braces of wickets for Momin, Moiz and Ubaid-Raza.

We’ve got the scorecard online, as well as updated statistics and averages.

Representative honours [posted 17/07/17]

Sohaib Shah is again representing Scotland at Under 15 age-group today, the side taking on Cumbria at Ferguslie CC’s “Meikleriggs” ground.  Also in national side action today is Abtaha Maqsood who is part of the Scotland Women’s squad playing the ECB Academy, and Ihtisham Malik and Owais Shah are in Scotland Development XI action against a touring Australian academy side at Heriot’s FP’s “Goldenacre” ground.  Last-but-not-least, four ‘Loc players are in thr Western Warriors Under 18 squad to play the touring Ulster Schools side at “Shawholm” today: Amaan, Ahmed-Raza, Uzzair and Taimoor.  Well done to all these young players.

Mixed fortunes in the Sunday League [posted 16/07/17] The Academy side returned from The Tryst with the win today, chasing just 55 to beat their hosts.  However it was a different story at Shawholm where the Panthers were defeated by their visitors, Renfrew.  In Larbert “3-fors” for Ihty and Raza were the biggest hauls for the bowlers as the Academy skittled out Stennie for 54.  However they, in turn, lost six wickets in the run-chase.

At Shawholm, Renfrew posted 239 batting first, with their Professional, Farhan Khan, top-scoring with 97.  Faizan took the bowling plaudits for the Panthers, getting his name on the Honours Board with 5 for 27.  In their reply, the Panthers couldn’t get any meaningful partnerships together, and would eventually be bowled out for 128, only Hassan (23), Dr Uzzi (23) and Habib (22*) getting in to double figures.  We’ve got the scorecards online (here and here), as well as updated statistics and averages.

Representative honours [posted 16/07/17]

Sohaib Shah is again representing Scotland at Under 15 age-group today, the side taking on Durham at Greenock CC’s “Glenpark” ground.  Also in national side action today is Abtaha Maqsood who is part of the Scotland Women’s squad playing Wales and Worcestershire.  Well done to both players.

Saturday washout [posted 15/07/17]

Neither of the two senior men’s Saturday league matches beat the weather today unfortunately, both being cancelled before their scheduled start times with persistent falling, wet grounds and a poor forecast.  #triplewhammy

Weekend games [posted 14/07/17]

The weekend action won’t be starting this evening as both the Under 11s’ and Under 15s’ opponents have called off the scheduled league matches.  This means the action starts on Saturday [Ed: weather-permitting!] with Shawholm travelling to Coatbridge to take on Langloan, and Greenock visiting Shawholm to take on the ‘Loc.  Both games have scheduled 12 noon starts.  The Sunday League then continues on Sunday [Ed: you don’t say!] with the Panthers hosting Renfrew, and the Academy travelling to The Tryst.  Then monday brings the weekend’s action to a close, the ground hosting the Western Warriors Unders 18s against Ulster Schools during the day, and the Under 13s travelling to take on the Irvine|Kilmarnock combined side in the evening.  Team selections are populated as players confirm.

Another washout [posted 13/07/17]

Tonight’s Greenwood Cup quarter-final against East Kilbride was abandoned after only eight balls, with heavy rain driving the players from the ground.

Evening League double for the ‘Loc teams [posted 11/07/17] It might be the height of the holiday season, but the club had two Evening League sides in action this evening, with the Academy hosting West of Scotland and the Panthers over in Renfrew.  At Shawholm the Academy recorded a convincing 56-run win, whilst at King George V Playing Fields, the Panthers sneaked home with a couple of ballds to spare to record a four-wicket victory.

There were a number of good individual performances in the matches with Aman Jagdev scoring 44 and Murtaza 35 for the Panthers, whilst Taimoor (67), Hamza (54) and Louis (43) all made runs for the Academy side.  And with the ball the standout bowling figures were likely Zakir’s 4-0-20-3 and Rob’s 3-0-19-2 at Shawholm, and Murtaza’s 4-1-10-2 and Dr Uzzi‘s 3-1-9-2 over in Renfrew.  We’ve got the scorecards online (here and here), as well as updated statistics and averages.  You can also read more about the Panthers match in skipper Irfan’s latest musings.

Representative honours [posted 10/07/17]

The club again is proud that a number of its junior players are involved in national age-group squads this week.  Sohaib Shah is with the Scotland Under 15 squad that is taking on Cumbria, Amaan Ramzan and Uzzair Shah are included in the Scotland Under 17 squad travelling to take on Leicestershire, and Ihtisham Malik and Owais Shah are selected in the Scotland Under 19 squad that’s playing three matches against the touring Nambia Under 19s.

Fourth abandonment of the season scuppers Under 18s [posted 10/07/17]

It perhaps shouldn’t come as a surprise that in the continuing wet weather, tonight saw yet another match started but not completed.  The victims of the #Scottishsummer this time were the Under 18s, who were playing over on the north side at New Anniesland.  Their match was just five overs old when the persistent heavy rain drove players and umpires from the ground.  The ‘Loc had started well, batting first, and were 51 for 1 when play was halted.  Another case of what might’ve been perhaps. The scorecard – for what it’s worth – is online.

Double win Saturday [posted 08/07/17] Today saw both senior men’s sides record league wins, and both came courtesy of chasing challenging scores set by their Uddingston opponents.  At Bothwell Castle Policies 82 not out from Jurie, 62 from Owais and 33 not out from Louis were the main contributions to the ‘Loc chasing 207 to win, with a couple of overs to spare.

At Shawholm meanwhile, the target was 197, and the batters making the most telling contributions here were CJ (43), Murtaza (26), Amaan Ali (23) and Uzzair (20).  A good all-round team effort therefore.  The first innings at both grounds had seen a couple of “3-fors” too: Aky at Shawholm, and Humza at BCP.  We’ve got the scorecards online (here and here), as well as updated tables, and updated statistics and averages. Video highlights of the match at Bothwell Castle policies are also online.

Double defeat [posted 07/07/17]

Both the Under 11s and Under 15s slipped to league defeats this evening, as Clydesdale saw off both sides in southside derbies.  The Under 11s featured two debutants which was pleasing, Abhay picking up a wicket in his first game, and Muntaha becoming the latest Poloc junior cricketer to come off the Maqsood production line!  The Under 11s would, however, lose out by 38 runs, as losing seven wickets (-35 runs) to Clydesdale’s one (-5 runs) proved decisive.

Over at Toytown meanwhile the Under 15s were going down to another heavy defeat at the hands of their nearest rivals, last night’s ten-wicket cup loss being followed by tonight’s seven wicket reversal.  Batting first the Under 15s could muster just 58, with only Abdul getting in to double figures.  Their hosts then chased down their target inside thirteen overs, Zakir grabbing a couple of wickets, and Jamesy returning the impressive figures of 2-0-2-0 opening the bowling.  We’ve got the scorecards online, as well as updated statistics and averages.

Weekend action [posted 07/07/17]

The weather might have been rubbish for about a month, but the fixture card still suggests there’ll be seven matches played over the next four days.  Friday sees the Under 11s and Under 15s both in derby action, as they take on the Dark Side.  The Under 15s play the second of their back-to-back matches with Clydesdale, tomorrow travelling to Toytown.  The Under 11s host their opposite numbers.  Saturday then sees both senior men’s sides take on Uddingston, with the poloc side at Bothwell Castle Policies.  Both Saturday matches start at 12 noon.  Sunday’s then sees two more matches: the Academy are in Sunday League action at Torrance House, and the ‘Loc go to Glenpark in the Western Union 40 Cup quarter-final.  And finally on Monday the weekend’s schedule concludes with the Under 18s going to New Anniesland to take on Glasgow Accies in the league.  Team selections are populated as players confirm.

Under 15s exit the cup [posted 07/07/17]

The Under 15s exited the Scottish Cup this evening, going down to the Dark Side by ten wickets.  Strange as it sounds given the margin of defeat, this wasn’t a poor performance.  With all but two of the players on parade being genuine Under 13s or younger, the young side put an encouraging show against an altogether bigger and more experienced side.

Addul also chipped in with a good 25 at the top of the order, with Hassaan giving good support in a partnership of 25 for the third wicket.  However posting 69 for 4 was never really likely to be enough, and so it proved, the visitors getting home with plenty of time in hand.  We’ve got the scorecard online, as well as updated statistics and averages.

Wash out [posted 04/07/17]

Both tonight’s Evening League matches have been called off because of the weather: the home Academy match against Glasgow Accies, and the Panthers‘ trip to Hamilton Crescent to play West of Scotland.

Representative honours [posted 04/07/17]

Congratulations to Owais Shah on selection in the Scotland Development XI squad for their match against the Yorshire CCC Academy this week.  Well done, too, to Sohaib Shah on Scotland Under 15 selection for matches against Northumberland and Lincolnshire this week.  And, finally, mention of Uzzair Shah’s and Amaan Ramzan’s selections for Scotland Under 17s’ game against Cumbria this week.

Western Union Cup rescheduling [posted 03/07/17]

The Western Union Cup quarter-final tie against Greenock, away at Glenpark, has been rescheduled for this Sunday, the 9th of July.  1pm start.

Juniors left idle [posted 03/07/17]

Unfortunately both the Under 13s and Under 18s were left without fixtures this evening as – respectively – Weirs and the Greenock|Helensburgh combined side conceded their matches with the club.

The Panthers win at Prestwick [posted 02/07/17] After the disappointment of the Scottish Cup exit, and the manner of it, news of an altogether more encouraging result filtered through to the club later on Sunday evening.  Inspired by 122 from Murtaza Syed, the Panthers returned from Ayrshire with a Sunday League win, having chased down 249 in just under 40 overs.

Murtaza gets his name on the senior honours boards as a result of his heroics, and we await a match report from Messrs. Maddock and Hanif.  Meantime it’s maybe worth highlighting that Murtaza also took 4 for 33, and Hunnain scored 60, the latter in a whopping 213-run first wicket partnership for the Panthers.  We’ve got the scorecard online, as well as an updated Sunday League table and statistics and averages, and a match report from a Panthers insider!

The ‘Loc exit the Scottish Cup [posted 02/07/17]

It was a case of what might have been [Ed: or maybe that should read, what should have been!] at Shawholm today as the ‘Loc somehow didn’t get past Carlton in their Scottish Cup quarter-final clash.  Notwithstanding the fact they gifted the Edinburgh club no fewer than 32 runs in wides and no balls, they still bundled out the Capital side for just 152, in 34 overs.

However in a run-chase that never really built up a head of steam, that golden rule of batting in the west of Scotland after a week of wet weather seemed to be forgotten.  “Get forward”!  After watching five Carlton batters get trapped LBW going back, the ‘Loc batters then even forgot to get a pad in the way as no fewer than six were cleaned up by the visitors’ bowlers.  And, frustratingly, when the last ‘Loc wicket fell [Ed: bowled obviously!], and the ‘Loc had slumped to a 19-run defeat, there were still 30 balls to be bowled.  So a case of so-near-yet-so-far maybe, but at the same time the cost of now established habits was really felt today.  Those unecessary extras, not to mention the couple of runs gifted by way of over-throws and at least 5 runs conceded through basic fielding errors, were more than the final difference between the two sides.  And that’s without even tackling the batters as to what their plans to chase the 153 needed to win were.  C’est la vie!  We’ve got the scorecard online, as well as updated statistics and averages. Video highlights are also online.

Shawholm win again [posted 01/07/17] Shawholm kept up their good recent run of results, and performances, with a convincing 128-run win, at home, against Meikleriggs today.  Inserted by their Paisley visitors, the side racked up 232 for 7, the highlight of which was Humza Sabri’s sparkling 120 not out, a knock that included eighteen 4s, and a maximum!

Humza therefore adds his name to senior honours boards.  Then, defending their total, in a rain-interrupted second innings, a “4-for” from Abdullah and a “3-for” from Hunnain were the stand-out performances, as the slow bowlers caused chaos in the Meikleriggs batting line-up.  Today’s win sees Shawholm sitting second in the table, tucked in behind the Dark Side.  We’ve got the scorecard online, as well as an updated table, and updated statistics and averages.

Match abandoned [posted 01/07/16]

The ‘Loc‘s match at Meikleriggs against Ferguslie was abandoned today, persistent heavy drizzle making the chances of play recommencing very unlikely.  When the players had left the field Ferguslie were 109 for 5 in the 35th over, Jurie having taken three home wickets.  The scorecard is online, as well as updated statistics and averages.

June 2017

Wash out [posted 30/06/17]

Today’s two junior league matches were washed out by Thursday’s and overnight rains, both Shawholm and New Cambusdoon failing to dry out in time to permit play.

Weekend matches [posted 29/06/17]

Another busy weekend of action starts today with two junior league matches: the Under 11s and 15s both playing Ayr.  The Under 11s are at home, the Under 15s away.  Saturday’s two senior men’s league matches are home-and-away fixtures against Ferguslie, with Shawholm entertaining Meikleriggs, and Poloc travelling to Paisley.  The Panthers are then back in Sunday League action on Sunday, travelling to the Henry Thow Oval to play Prestwick, with Poloc welcoming Carlton to Shawholm in the Scottish Cup at the same time.  The weekend’s action then concludes with the Under 13s and 18s in league action on Monday.

Representative honours [posted 28/06/17]

Congratulations to Ihtisham Malik and Owais Shah on selection in the Scotland Under 19 squad for their matches against Guernsey this weekend, in the Channel Islands.  Mention, too, of Sohaib Shah and Amaan Ramzan’s selections for Scotland Under 17s, and well done to Sohaib Shah for selection for Scotland Under 15s for its upcoming matches.

The ‘Loc progress to McCulloch Cup semi-final [posted 28/06/17]

Tonight’s home McCulloch Cup quarter-final tie with Drumpellier resulted in a 40-run win for the ‘Loc, 150 for 2 proving more than enough to see of the challenge of the Coatbridge side.  150 had looked a long way off however early in the ‘Loc‘s innings as they sat 43 for 2 at the halfway point.  But Taimoor had other ideas as he bludgeoned seven 4s and five 6s in accumulating an unbeaten 89* (650.

He was given great support by Asad who contributed a near run-a-ball 32*.  Then in the visitors’ reply regular wickets helped keep the momentum with the ‘Loc, despite 47 (44) from opener Shaw.  Standout bowlers on a night when the fielding wasn’t the best were Ihty (4-0-12-2) and Abdul (4-0-16-1).  We’ve got the scorecard online, as well as updated statistics and averages.

The Under 13s beat East Ren’|Renfrew [posted 26/06/17]

The Under 13s beat the combined East Renfrewshire|Renfrew side this evening at Woodfarm Pavilion.  Their 20-run win saw them defend 125, and had looked a pretty unlikely end result after they’d slumped to 1 for 4 in the second over!  However an unbeaten 30 from Nabeel, 27 not out from Jamesy and 18 from Ubaid-Raza saw the ship steadied and enough runs put on the ‘board to secure the win.  We’ve got the scorecard online.

Under 18 game off [posted 26/06/17]

Unfortunately the East Renfrewshire|Renfrew combined side has provisionally conceded tonight’s Under 18 match.

Scottish Cup – rearrangement [posted 24/06/17]

Recognising today’s Eid al-Fitr celebrations, Cricket Scotland has rescheduled the Scottish Cup tie with Carlton until next Sunday.

Back-to-back Saturday doubles [posted 24/06/17] There were two more wins today in the Saturday league for both ‘Loc sides today.  At Nunholm the Shawholm side defeated their hosts by 70 runs, comfortably defending 238.  Usman Amin top-scored with 58, and there were important contributions from Graeme (48) and Dr Uzzi as 238 was posted batting first.

Defending the total owed much to early wickets, with only one of the Nunholm top five getting in double figures.  Aky helped himself to 4 for 21, and Humza 3 for 29 as the home side were bowled out for 167.  At Shawholm meanwhile it was Dumfries who batted first, posting 222 for 5 from their 50 overs.  222 looked at a number of stages in the first half to be the minimum the visitors might amass, however key wickets at key times saw “just” 222 posted.  The ‘Loc‘s run-chase started well, with Uzzi and Owais putting on 50 inside eleven overs, their opening partnership eventually reaching 73 before Uzzi (23) was dismissed.  From then on it was the Owais Show as he batted with Louis (11), Jurie (13), Taimoor (19) and, then, Rambo (6*) to see the side to the win, and in the process recording his first ‘Loc Saturday league hundred.  He faced the first ball of the innings, and – fittingly – the last, pulling the last ball of the 41st over to the square-leg boundary for 4 to see the ‘Loc finish 226 for 4 and record a six-wicket win.  Owais therefore adds his name to senior honours boards.  We’ve got the scorecards online (here and here), as well as updated tables, and updated statistics and averages.  There are also video highlights in the “Video library”.

Heavy defeat for the Under 15s [posted 23/06/17]

The Under 15s went down to a heavy defeat this evening at Shawholm, losing by 53 runs to the Ferguslie|Kelburne combined team.  After being set 153 to win, the ‘Loc mustered 99 for 5, a “funny” score that reflect an apparent lack of appetite to “give it a go” chasing down the big score they leaked in the first innings.  Sobo batted through for an unbeaten 54, which, on the night, look lite-weight compared to the visitors’ McLean’s unbeaten knock of 101 (64).

We’ve got the scorecard online, and updated statistics and averages.

Under 11 game off [posted 23/06/17]

Unfortunately East Kilbride has conceded tonight’s Under 11 match.

Weekend games [posted 23/06/17]

There’s another busy weekend of cricket coming up over the next few days, starting with tonight’s two junior matches: the Under 11s travelling to East Kilbride and the Under 15s hosting the Ferguslie|Hillhead combined team.  Saturday’s two senior men’s league matches are both against Dumfries, with the Shawholm side travelling to the border to take on Nunholm, and Poloc at home.  Sunday’s action is the Scottish Cup quarter-final match against Carlton, before Monday sees two more junior league matches with both the Under 13s and Under 18s in action against their East Renfrewshire|Renfrew combined side counterparts.

Greenwood Trophy win [posted 22/06/17]

The Panthers progressed in the Greenwood Trophy this evening, defeating Kilmarnock at Scott Ellis Fields by five wickets.  We’ve a short report online, as well as the scorecard and updated statistics and averages.

Under 16s defeat Prestwick [posted 21/06/17]

The Under 16s recorded a league win over Prestwick this evening at Shawholm, chasing 141 to beat their Ayrshire visitors.  Amaan’s unbeaten 72 was the standout knock in the run-chase, albeit he was ably supported by Sobo, whose 43 was just as important.  We’ve got the scorecard online, and updated statistics and averages.

Mixed Evening League fortunes [posted 20/06/17]

There was a win and a loss recorded in the Evening League this evening as the Panthers fell to defeat at home to a strong Glasgow Accies side, failing to chase 143 for the win.  However over in Paisley, at Whitehaugh, there was better news, the Academy side beating Kelburne by 24 runs.  Owais and Taimoor both scored half centuries in the game, as the Academy posted 148 for 4, before Hamza took 5 for 12 in the home side’s reply.

In the Panthers match Graeme’s bowling figures were the standout ones, returning 4-0-14-2, Glasgow Accies posting 142 for 6.  In their [ultimately unsuccessful] run-chase there were a couple of cameos, Gulfam (21) and Awace (19) both getting going, but just not managing to hang around long enough to see their side across the finish line.

Cup win for Under 13s [posted 20/06/17]

The Under 13s won through in both the League Cup and Scottish Cup this evening at Hamilton Crescent, beating hosts West of Scotland in a cup double-header.  Batting first the side posted 113 for 6, before then skittling West for just 23 to win by 90 runs.  There were contributions in the “teens” from Moiz (13), Abdullah (12) and Ubaid (11*), however it was extras that really boosted the ‘Loc‘s total, all 58 of them!  In bowling out West for just 23, Momin and Devraj both picked up a couple of wickets.

Representative selections [posted 20/06/17]

Sunday the 18th saw six Poloc players playing for the Western Warriors Under 18s in their 108-run win over Eastern Knights at Boghall.  Congratulations to Taimoor Ahmad, Ahmed-Raza Hanif, Ihtisham Malik, Amaan Ramzan, Owais Shah and Uzzair Shah on their selections, and their contributions to the win.  The six’s selections follow Abtaha Maqsood’s selection for Scotland Women last week, the Wildcats taking on Derbyshire CCC and Hampshire CCC in back-to-back T20s down south.  Well done again to Aataha.  And the representative selections continue this week, with Uzzair Shah selected for Scotland Under 17s match with the MCC, and Taimoor Ahmad, Ihtisham Malik and Owais Shah all selected for the two matches between Scotland Under 19 and a Scottish Development XI being played on Wednesday and Thursday this week.

Big win for the Under 13s [posted 19/06/17]

The Under 13s won again this evening, last wekk’s cliffhanger against Clydesdale being followed by an altogether more relaxing 108-run win over the East Kilbride|Uddingston combined side.  On a glorious night at Shawholm the youngsters posted 154 for 1 thanks to the Mehmood brothers – Samee and Hassaan – both scoring unbeaten 30s, and Abdullah making 24 not out.  A “3-for” for Nabeel was then the highlight of the second innings, the combined side being bowled out for just 46.

We’ve got the scorecard online.

Double success over Kelburne [posted 17/06/17]

Both ‘Loc senior sides were in Saturday League action today, and both finished the day 25 points the richer after recording a win each.  In Paisley the ‘Loc recorded an eight-wicket win over hosts Kelburne, Owais (57*) and Louis (44) scoring the bulk of the runs in the successful run-chase after Kelburne had been restricted to 121, LJ with 3 for 13 and a brace each for Jurie and Raza.  Match report online.

Back on the southside meanwhile there was an altogether more tense finish, with Shawholm sneaking home by one wicket chasing 205 win.  In a tense finish, it was Zakir Siddiqui who scored the winning runs, pulling a 4 through square-leg to cue the celebrations.  In bowling out Whitehaugh for 204 there were “3-fors” for Aky and Abdullah, the latter adding to a good all-round performance by scoring an unbeaten 16 to be there at the end with Zakir.  Earlier in the run-chase there were useful contributions from Aky (39), Rambo (33) and Sobo (22), with 39 extras helping the cause too.  So, all-in-all, a good Saturday double for the club.  We’ve got the scorecards online (here and here), as well updated tables, and updated statistics and averages.  There are also video highlights in the “Video library”.

Weekend games [posted 16/06/17]

The weekend action started this evening with the two junior matches, and continues with home and away league fixtures against Kelburne on Saturday, Poloc at Whitehaugh and Shawholm at home.  Sunday is then a blank day, but the club’s hosting an inter-regional women’s Under 17 match.  Then on Monday both the Under 13s and Under 18s are in action, both sides taking on the East Kilbride|Uddingston combined side.

Friday night double for ‘Loc junior sides [posted 16/06/17]

The Under 11s and Under 15s were both victorious in their respective league matches tonight, the Under 11s beating Weirs in a southside derby, and the Under 15s winning over at Hamilton Crescent against West of Scotland.  The Under 11s’ win was based on losing no wickets as their four pairs batted first, the Under 15s’ win saw an unbeaten 82 from Sobo with Abdul chipping in with 47.  We’ve got the scorecards online.

Rowan Cup exit [posted 15/06/17]

The ‘Loc exited this season’s Rowan Cup after defeat to Prestwick this evening.  In a match reduced to eighteen overs-a-side, the ‘Loc struggled again to get an early breakthrough, Prestwick racing to 79 for 0 in the first ten overs.  However once the first wicket eventually came, the side did really well to drag themselves back in to the tie, Ahmed-Raza (4-0-19-2) and Hamza (4-0-18-0) being the standout bowlers in this regard.

However the damage had been done “up top”, and 119 was the target set.  And just as the inability to make a breakthrough or build scoreboard pressure in the first ten overs has been the side’s Achille’s Heel with the ball, so failing to rotate the strike and build momentum with the bat has been the batting line-up’s failing.  This added to batters inability to bat for more than just a few overs. Both short-comings again reared their heads to ight, as openers Owais and Rambo ate up 24 deliveries in making a combined 9 runs, whilst seven of the batters faced ten or fewer balls before getting out.  And all bar Hamza did get out: 93 all out saw the side slip to a 25-run defeat.  Disappointing therefore to exit the competition, but more disappointing is the poor performance and lack of apparent ability to learn from recurring mistakes and – more simply – do the basics well.  Sturday sees the bext chance to prove this scribe wrong however, and here’s hoping for a “reaction” and a determination to execute the skills that are undoubtedly there.  We’ve got the scorecard and a match report online, and updated statistics and averages.

The ‘Loc sneak the win, and cup progression [posted 14/06/17]

The ‘Loc somehow managed to sneak past West of Scotland this evening, winning by three wickets with four balls to spare to progress to the McCulloch Cup quarter-finals.  The win saw them finish top of the group and, therefore, book a home quarter-final against Drumpellier in a fortnight’s time.  Chasing 121 to win, the side had bowled and fielded scrappily, the Keystone Cops scenes being best summed up by reporting that Ihty‘s bowling spell totalled two balls.  Both beamers.  End of.    You couldn’t script it.

But 121 it was, and when West‘s pro’ Ramanayake had torn through the ‘Loc‘s top order (5 for 16 from his first three overs!), a win seemed a long wat off.  However Asad (20) and Louis (40*) put on 45 for the sixth wicket and dragged the ‘Loc back into the game.  Louis would stay until the end too, seeing the side across the finish line in the final over, Hamza for company. We’ve got the scorecard online, and updated statistics and averages.  We’ve also got a match report and video highlights.

Western Cup loss [posted 13/06/17]

Shawholm suffered derby defeat tonight, losing out at home to Titwood in the Western Cup.  Batting first on another damp and dank night, the side were bundled out for just 86, despite a brisk start that had seen them 22 for 0 in the fourth over.  However a mid-innings collapse saw the side lose eight wickets for just 35 runs!  And only Lewis’s 38 (33) saw them post anything north of horrible.

If the Shawholm boys struggled with the bat, Titwood made equally hard going of their run-chase.  The only difference was that they didn’t lose wickets.  In fact when they reached the winning post of 87, they’d faced just one ball fewer than Shawholm!  However they were three down, not all out!  For Titwood, as in the first innings, only one batter really got going: Shoukat, who bunted 36 (38).  And given he was dropped when in single figures, the old adage of “catches winning matches” also applied.  We’ve got the scorecard online (here), as well updated group stage table, and updated statistics and averages.

Match off [posted 13/06/17]

Tonight’s Under 13 League Cup tie, away to West of Scotland, has been postponed for the fourth time, rain again seeing the ground at Hamilton Crescent too wet for play.

Derby win in Monday night junior action [posted 12/06/17]

Unfortunately the continuing poor weather claimed tonight’s Under 18 derby clash with Clydesdale as its latest victim, leaving just the mirror Under 13 match “over-by”.  And in a low-scoring match, dominated by ball over bat, the ‘Loc youngsters sneaked home by the narrowest of margins, winning by just 1 run in what turned out to be an exciting finish.  We’ve got the scorecard online, as well as a short report.

Match off [posted 12/06/17]

Tonight’s Under 18 match at home to Clydesdale has been cancelled because of the wet weather.  However the corresponding Under 13 match at Toytown goes ahead, likely being played on the roll-out Flicx pitch.  Under 11 and women’s practices at Shawholm go ahead, however, as scheduled.

Shawholm win in Partick [posted 10/06/17]

With the ‘Loc‘s game at home to East Kilbride beaten by the weather, today’s entire focus was on Shawholm’s away day at Hamilton Crescent against Partick.  And in a reduced 45 overs-a-side match the side didn’t disappoint, coming out on top in a closely-fought affair, winning by 8 runs in the penultimate over.  The win sees the side move up to fourth on day when only a handful of matches beat the weather.

Batting first, Lewis led from the front with 36 as 144 was posted.  Then, with ball in hand, the skipper grabbed a “3-for” as Partick were eventually dismissed for 136 in the 44th over.  There were also a couple of wickets a-piece for Ahmed-Raza and Hunnain in what was a really good win.  We’ve got the scorecard online (here), as well updated tables, and updated statistics and averages.

Matches off [posted 09/06/17]

Both tonight’s junior age-group league matches are off because of the continuing very wet weather, the Under 11s’ trip to Kilmarnock, and the Under 15s away fixture at Glasgow Accies.

Weekend action [posted 08/06/17]

This weekend’s cricket action starts on Friday with both the Under 11s and Under 15s in league action, both away – to Irvine|Kilmarnock and Glasgow Accies respectively.  Saturday’s two senior mens league matches see Poloc host East Kilbride, and Shawholm travel to Hamilton Crescent to play Partick.  On Sunday the Academy are in Sunday League action, before Monday’s Under 13 and Under 18 league clashes with the Dark Side.

Last ball loss at Weirs [posted 07/06/17] The ‘Loc fell to the loss tonight at Albert Park, Weirs sneaking home off the last ball of the match, scampering the 2 runs needed to win by five wickets.  In a match reduced to eighteen overs-a-side because no umpires showed, the ‘Loc mustered what looked to be a below-par 87 for 4 batting first on a wicket still drying after Tuesday’s heavy rains.

However 87 so very nearly proved enough in the end, and only 16 being scored off the last over – completely against the pattern of play in both innings up until that point – saw the home side to victory.  As ever in such games of the smallest of winning margins, it’s easy to concentrate only on what happened at the end, and no doubt Jurie will wonder how his over went for 16.  However it’s never as simple as that.  57 dot balls in the ‘Loc‘s innings – that’s well over half the deliveries – certainly took a toll, as did conceding 7 runs in wides, an overthrow and maybe some other poor decision-making and execution of skills in the field.  But a loss it was, and disappointing to suffer it off the last ball.  However the side still has progression in the McCulloch Cup in its own hands, with a win in their final group stage match next Wednesday against West of Scotland being enough to see them in to the quarter-finals.  We’ve got the scorecard online, and updated statistics and averages.  We’ve also got video highlights.

Two wins in Monday night junior action [posted 05/06/17] The Under 13s and Under 18s were both in action this evening, the younger side entertaining Ayr at Shawholm, the older team taking on the Ferguslie|Hillhead combined side at Meikleriggs.  Pleasingly both sides recorded wins too, the Under 13s winning by over 100 runs and the Under 18s seeing off their opponents by five wickets.

For the Under 13s there was an unbeaten 33 from Hassaan, with a couple of cameo contributions from Hasan (22) and Samee (21), whilst Rambo (38*), Taimoor (3-2-1-1), Sobo (4-0-6-2) and Abdullah (3-0-13-3) stood out in the game in Paisley.  We’ve got the scorecards online.

Western Union Cup win against Hillhead [posted 04/06/17]

The ‘Loc booked their berth in the next round of the 40 overs-a-side Western Union Cup this afternoon with a straight-forward win over Hillhead at Hughenden.  The home side elected to bat first after Jurie lost the toss, but quickly lost wickets after Hamza and Ahmed-Raza – on 1st XI debut – came in to the attack after only four overs of seam.  Hamza would eventually take three wickets, and Ahmed-Raza a “5-for”, as their fifteen overs bowling in tandem saw Hillhead lose eight wickets, whilst scoring just 22 runs.

After a quick turnaround, the ‘Loc made relatively easy work of the run-chase, despite losing Uzzi without scoring in the first over.  Mo top-scored with an unbeaten 31, as victory was secured in the thirteenth over.  We’ve got the scorecard online, and updated statistics and averages.  We’ve also got video highlights.

Double derby defeat [posted 03/06/17] Both the ‘Loc and Shawholm went down to derby day defeats today, the ‘Loc being thumped at Titwood – for the second time in a week – and Shawholm losing on DLS at home when rain brought to a halt their run-chase.  Disappointment all round then, both in terms of the results, but far more in the performances.

At Titwood the game’s start was rain-delayed such that it was 26 overs-a-side.  Batting first the Dark Side slayed the ‘Loc‘s bowlers to all parts, with the wagon wheel again showing that the heaviest scoring areas were square of the wicket,…..on both sides!  This familiar pattern, added to another familiar feature – a bountiful dowry of wides and no balls, this week totalling 16 in 26 overs – saw Clydesdale post 187 for 7.  Chasing 188 to win, the ‘Loc then lost Owais early early – run out – before slipping to 39 for 3, and not really ever recovering.  As with the bowling, the batting reflected now familiar patterns, with batters unable to hang around long enough to either build partnerships or individual innings of substance.  In the end the side slumped to 106 all out inside 21 overs, and defeat by plenty runs.  A defeat that sees the side slip to third bottom in the table.

The Shawholm defeat wasn’t – on paper – as much of a thumping, yet still exposed weaknesses.  After restricting Titwood to 147 for 9 in their innings – reduced to 28 overs – the side then crawled to 8 for 1 in seven overs at the start of their run-chase, a start that ultimately cost them as evening rain saw the match cut short, 21 overs having been bowled and the side 28 runs short of the DLS par score at that juncture.  So, arguably, one decent half of cricket, but – ultimately – as across in G41 – derby day defeat.  We’ve got the scorecards online (here and here), as well updated tables, and updated statistics and averages.  We’ve also got video highlights.

A tie and a defeat in Friday night juniors action [posted 02/06/17]

After a couple of weeks washed out, the Under 11s and Under 15s returned to action tonight, the Under 11s at Woodfarm Pavilion, and the Under 15s entertaining Glasgow Accies.  The club’s youngest hardball side succumbed to an older East Renfrewshire side in the match in Giffnock, losing by 43 runs, whilst the Under 15s tied their match with their visitors from the West End.  We’ve got the scorecards online, and short match reports.

Match off [posted 01/06/17]

Tonight’s Western Cup group stage match at Glenpark has been cancelled because of the rain.

Weekend action [posted 01/06/17]

There are seven matches coming up in the next four days, with the Under 11s and Under 15s in league tomorrow against, respectively, East Renfrewshire and Glasgow Accies.  The Under 15s are at home.  Saturday’s two senior mens league matches see derby clashes against the Dark Side, Shawholm acting as hosts and the ‘Loc making the short trip to G41.  Sunday’s fixture is the Western Union 40 Cup first round tie against Hillhead, over at Hughenden.  The weekend action then ends with the Under 13s and Under 18s both in league action on Monday evening.  Teams are online, as selections are confirmed.

Sandy Strang [posted 01/06/17]

David Love, Secretary of Ferguslie Cricket Club has contacted the club to say, “I write on behalf of Mary Fisher, the partner of Sandy Strang, to advise that a short ceremony, incorporating the scattering of Sandy’s ashes, will take place on Friday 9th June 2017 at Meikleriggs. Members, players and friends are welcome to attend this short ceremony at 5.30pm for a 6pm start. Mary would be grateful if this information could be circulated within your club.”

May 2017

Butt-kicking at Toytown [posted 31/05/17]

The ‘Loc came back from Toytown this evening with tails very much between legs, butts sore after a kicking.  Even though it was a school night, two very young sides played out the latest southside derby, the Dark Side coming out on top, winning by four wickets in the McCulloch Cup group stage match.  Batting first, the ‘Loc simply didn’t post a big enough total, with no fewer than 61 dot balls proving fatal.

Then, just as harmful, in defending just 115, the side conceded no fewer than 16 runs in wides and no balls as they slumped to defeat with ten balls left.  We’ve got the scorecard online, the updated group stage table, and updated statistics and averages.

Matches and practice off [posted 29/05/17]

Tonight’s Under 13 League match at home to the Irvine|Kilmarnock combined team, and the away Under 18 League at Langloan against the Drumpellier|Victoria combined side, have been cancelled because of the rain.  Also off is Under 11 practice and coaching for the same reason.

Panthers slip to first defeat of the season [posted 28/05/17]

You can read skipper Irfan’s latest musings, on the Panthers‘ first defeat of the season at home to Weirs today in the Sunday League.  His match report’s online.

The ‘Loc reach the Scottish Cup quarter-finals [posted 28/05/17]

The ‘Loc – to borrow a well-worn sports report cliche – “bounced back” from yesterday’s depressing defeat to Prestwick, with a comprehensive win over Ferguslie, at Meikleriggs, in the second round of the Scottish Cup.  Losing the toss, the side were invited to bowl first.  And good tight bowling, and decent fielding where nearly every chance offered up was taken, saw them bundle their hosts out for just 117.

Hamza starred with ball as regards wicket-taking, returning 6 for 17 to get his name on the Honours Board for a second consecutive time in the Scottish Cup.  The run-chase then – when looking back on it – was utterly efficient, the 118 runs needed being scored before drinks, with Owais (56*) and Jurie (37*) seeing the side home.  We’ve got the scorecard online, and updated statistics and averages.

Bad day at the office [posted 27/05/17] Both senior men’s sides lost in Saturday league action today, Poloc going down at home in a match interuppted on numerous occasions and eventually seeing opponents Prestwick reach their DLS -adjusted target of 76 with seven balls to spare, seven down.

And whilst defeat was being suffered in the damp in Glasgow, down on the coast Shawholm – in another rain-interrupted match – were slipping to a loss too, failing to chase 201, a target St. Ninian’s had set thanks in no small part to them being gifted no fewer than 52 runs in wides and no balls!!

To make matters worse, ‘Loc skipper Pasty suffered a serious-looking knee injury slipping in the field and will likely miss tomorrow’s Scottish Cup match at Meikleriggs, his absence adding to Muhammad’s unavailability, also due to an injury, his nack injury being picked up on Friday.  If there were any bright spots on an otherwise pretty depressing day they likely included The Professor‘s 60 and Graeme’s 53 for Shawholm, and Pasty‘s 46 and Hamza’s “3-for” for the ‘Loc.  Louis’s over-the-head screamer of a catch should also get a mention in despatches.  We’ve got the scorecards online (here and here), as well updated tables, and updated statistics and averages.  We also have match highlights from the match at Shawholm, online now, along with photo’s in the Gallery.

The Under 16s progress in the Frank Smith Trophy [posted 26/05/17]

The ‘Loc Under 16s were in action this evening, and returned from Hamilton Crescent having progressed to the semi-finals of this season’s Frank Smith Trophy, this year being played at Under 16 level.  The win – by 95 runs – was a convincing one, the home side hampered by being a couple of players short.  For the ‘Loc Rambo was the standout batter, making an unbeaten 75.  Then, with the ball, the wickets were shared around, Hassaan taking a couple, and there being two run outs thrown in for good measure.

We’ve got the scorecard online, and a short match report.

Rowan Cup progress [posted 25/05/17]

The club secured safe passage to the quarter-finals of this season’s Rowan Cup with a relatively straight-forward win at Renfrew.  Chasing 79 for the win after restricting their hosts to 78 for 9, the ‘Loc chased down the required runs inside ten overs, Taimoor top-scoring with an unbeaten 31.  In the first innings, skipper Hamza had returned figures of 4-1-13-3 to lead the bowling unit in effectively strangling the Renfrew batters.  There were also braces of wickets for Ihty and Abdul. We’ve got the scorecard online and updated statistics and averages.  We’ve also got video highlights.  After their win over Stirling County, the ‘Loc‘s next opponents in the competition are Prestwick, who’ll visit Shawholm in a fortnight’s time.

McCulloch Cup win at West [posted 24/05/17]

The ‘Loc returned to winning ways at Hamilton Crescent this evening with an eight-wicket win over West of Scotland.  Set 107 to win, the side chased down their target with more than four overs to spare, Owais top-scoring with an unbeaten 65* (46).  The low’ish target owed much to effective spells from the six ‘Loc bowlers used.  Only Louis and Taimoor were on the expensive side, though the latter, and Pasty, both grabbed a brace of wickets each.

We’ve got the scorecard online, the updated group stage table, and updated statistics and averages.  We’ve also got video highlights.

The Panthers secure club bragging rights [posted 23/05/17]

The first of this season’s two intra-club, league clashes took place tonight at Shawholm [Ed: obviously, doh!] when the Academy hosted the Panthers in what was the former’s home Evening Leagfue match.  And despite as horrendous start that saw the Panthers slump to 5 for 4, they would eventually come out on top, posting – and then successfully defending – 109.  Abby‘s 51 was the standout contribution in the recovery from 5 for 4, his knock including three maximums, and coming from just 32 deliveries.  Ahmed-Raza was the Academy’s top performer in that first innings, returning 4-0-10-3 to pip Uzzi for the honour, the latter returning figures of 4-1-10-2.  And it was Uzzi who opened the Academy’s batting, with CJ, in search of the 110 needed to win.  A steady start never really gained momentum however, and by half way the Panthers had the upper paw, the pressure they were able to exert in the gathering gloom seeing both runs dry up, and wickets fall.  Uzzair’s 24 (38), CJ‘s 20 (29) and Sobo‘s 13 (22) all flattered to deceive, the reality – in hindsight – being that none of the three ever really got going, nor did either of their partnerships see effective enough strike rotation.  And so it was that the Academy would eventually finish 12 runs shy of their target, and their “visitors” would secure their 11-run win.  Scorecards are online, here and here [Ed: the same one of course!].

Another abandonment! [posted 22/05/17]

In what’s been the driest start to a season many can remember, perhaps unbelievably the Under 13s became the third junior side to be involved in a match that was abandoned!  The match in question was the League Cup quarter-final tie with West of Scotland.  And to add to the disappointment the side had made a great start, Hasan Malik’s 30 not out, being augmented [Ed: children, go look the word up!] by Hassaan’s 24 and Abdullah’s 20, to see them well-placed after seventeen overs on 109 for 4.  Then it rained……

Mixed results [posted 20/05/17]

It was a day of both mixed fortunes as well as mixed weather today, as the Shawholm side secured a straight-forward home league win over Cambusdoon in dreich conditions on the southside, whilst Poloc slipped to defeat in the final over of their match with Ayr at New Cambusdoon, failing to defend 267.  Ouch.  So, mixed fortunes.  We’ve got the scorecards online (here and here), as well updated tables, and updated statistics and averages.

We also have match highlights from the match at New Cambusdoon, online now.

Friday washouts [posted 19/05/17]

Unfortunately both tonight’s junior league matches – the under 11s and Under 15s both playing Clydesdale – were washed away by the heavy rain that hit the southside just as both games were starting.

Weekend games [posted 19/05/17]

There are five games over the next four days.  Tonights sees the Under 11s and Under 15s in league action, both taking on Clydesdale.  The Under 11s are over in Crossmyloof, the Under 15s at home.  Saturday’s two senior mens league matches are against Ayr, Shawholm entertaining Cambusdoon, and Poloc down in Alloway.  Sunday’s scheduled Academy Sunday League game with Stenhousemuir has been postponed at The Tryst club’s request, leaving Monday’s Under 13 League Cup match at Hamilton Crescent against West of Scotland as the game that closes out the weekend’s action.  Team selections are online, players added as they confirm availability.

Panthers progress in the Greenwood Trophy [posted 18/05/17]

The Panthers saw off the challenge of BBC Scotland in the fitst round of this year’s Greenwood Trophy, securing a 66-run win on yet another gloriously sunny night at Shawholm.  Inserted by the visiting skipper after he won the toss, the Panthers’ 177 for 2 accrued from Rambo‘s unbeaten 80, and 73 not out from Uzzi.  Their jumbo partnership effectively took the game away from the Beeb and gave their side more than enough to defend.  That said, the second innings run-chase started at a rattling good pace, and after ten overs – though wickets had fallen – it was very much game on with BBC Scotland plundering boundaries at will and the Panthers‘ bowlers being in generous extras-awarding mode.  However as the number of wickets continued to rise, the brakes were gradually applied, and in the end, a 66-run win seems all to straight-forward.  Hunnain and Zakir took a brace of wickets each, and Sobo grabbed a “3-for”, one a smart caught and bowled.  So the Panthers progress, and in the next round they’re on the road to either Kilmarnock of the Death Star.  Meantime you can see highlights of tonight’s match in the Video library.  We’ve also got the latest novel,….sorry, match report, from the Panthers hierarchy.

McCulloch Cup defeat [posted 17/05/17]

The ‘Loc went down to derby defeat tonight, losing to Weirs by 7 runs, chasing 133 to win, in the McCulloch Cup at Shawholm.  The visitors posting 132 didn’t seem particularly likely early on when they were 14 for 0 after five overs, and only passed 50 in the tenth over.  However top bunting from Afzal – who hit 34 (22) – in the second half of the Weirs innings, and some scrappy fielding, saw the defendable total posted.

The ‘Loc run-chase then suffered from that direst of combos: falling wickets and dot balls.  In all, though the side would fall short of their target by only 8 runs, nine wickets were lost along the way, and no fewer than 52 dot balls were recorded.  With only three batters – Pasty (52*), Jurie (22) and Taimoor (18) – getting in to double figures, the revolving door of batters took its toll and defeat resulted.  We’ve got the scorecard online, the updated group stage table, and updated statistics and averages.  We’ve also got video highlights.

Owais Shah and Ihtisham Malik [posted 17/05/17]

Owais Shah and Ihtisham Malik were again action today for Scotland Development XI, in the a second one-day match against Durham CCC’s Academy side at Uddingston’s Bothwell Castle Policies ground.  The match saw Owais open the batting, scoring 30, whilst Ihty opened the bowling and returned 1 for 41 from his ten overs.

Owais Shah and Ihtisham Malik [posted 16/05/17]

Congratulations to Owais Shah and Ihtisham Malik on their selections for Scotland Development XI today, in the match with Durham CCC’s Academy side at Uddingston’s Bothwell Castle Policies ground.

Match and practice off [posted 15/05/17]

Tonight’s Under 13 League Cup match away at Hamilton Crescent against West of Scotland has been cancelled because of the rain.  Also off is Under 11 practice and coaching for the same reason.

Three games, three wins, three hundreds! [posted 14/05/17]

Today saw no fewer than three Poloc sides in Sunday afternoon action.  And the pleasing thing to report is that all three won!  And even more pleasing was that there were three Poloc centurions on the day!!  At Shawholm, two batters – Sobo (118*) and Uzzi (105) – scored hundreds as the Academy posted 311 for 2 in a big win over Hillhead in the Sunday League.  (Sohaib and Uzzair are pictured below.)  Meanwhile there was another ton being recorded across on the other side of the country as Jurie stroked 106 in the ‘Loc‘s good Scottish Cup win over Eastern Premier Division pace-setters Glenrothes at Gilvenbank (see team photo’ below, and video highlights).  And, lastly, but certainly not least, the Panthers enjoyed a victory over West of Scotland at Hamilton Crescent – read the match report of this one online here.  So after yesterday’s wash outs, today was defintely a day for everyone at the club to enjoy.  #Toffee

Saturday washouts [posted 13/05/17]

There was no action today for either of the club’s two senior men’s sides as the home game against Langloan and the awayday at “Glenpark” were both washed away by the rain that swept across the central belt today.  Two matches were completed in the Premier Division Reserve, wins being recorded by both Meikleriggs and Cambusdoon, and in the Premier Division Dumfries’s home game in the south-west was the only match to beat the weather, the home side coming out on top in that one.  We’ve got updated league tables online.

Friday night disappointment on juniors night [posted 12/05/17]

The Under 11s and Under 15s were both left disappointed this evening, albeit for different reasons.   The club’s youngest hardball cricketers ended up with glum faces [Ed: and wet hair!] as rain brought an abrupt end to their opening league match at New Cambusdoon.  Meanwhile at Shawholm, the Under 15s’ gloominess resulted from losing to their Ayr visitors with two balls to go in their league clash.  As it turned out 149 for 2 wasn’t defendable, and despite Sobo‘s 75 not out and Rafay Khan’s 53, the win points were taken back down the M77.

We’ve the scorecards online along with match reports, and updated averages and statistics.  Sobo‘s and Rafay’s knocks have also been added to the Juniors Honour Board.

Tennis court clean up [posted 12/05/17]

The #GreatCourtCleanUp continues and it was good to see two of the courts (pictured left) back in use yesterday, nets back up.  Partnering with the club in this project has been local business C Hanlon, and Pollok United Soccer Academy.  And it was good to see the academy boys on the courts last night, enjoying head tennis as part of a midway stop during their cycle in the park!  Great stuff.

Upcoming fixtures [posted 11/05/17]

The next five days sees the club scheduled to play eight fixtures.  The action starts tomorrow with two scheduled junior matches: the Under 11s and Under 15s both up against Ayr.  Let’s hope the forecast is wrong and the rain stays away.  And talk of rain [Ed: remember that stuff?!?] brings us to Saturday.  With a poor forecast hopefully turning out to be wrong, the Poloc side travels to Glenpark to take on Greenock, whilst the Shawholm side hosts Langloan.  Four down, four to go then.  And Sunday has three of the remaining four matches scheduled: Poloc go to Glenrothes in the Scottish Cup, the Academy host Hillhead in the Sunday League, and the Panthers go to Hamilton Crescent to take on West of Scotland.  Finally, Monday’s game is an Under 13 League Cup match, again over at Hamilton Crescent.  Team selections are online, players added as they confirm availability.

McCulloch Cup group stage win [posted 10/05/17]

The ‘Loc were in McCulloch Cup [Ed: the competition formerly known as the West League Cup,…..formerly known as the McCulloch Cup!] group stage action this evening, welcoming the team from “over by” to Shawholm for some T20 fun and games.  And, pleasingly, by the time the dust had settled on this latest skirmish between G43 and G41 it was the ‘Loc who had earned – at least for a while – the bragging rights, and 2 valuable group stage points after a 61-run win.  After posting 169 for 7, the ‘Loc then managed to bowl out the Crossmyloof side for 108, the last ‘Dale batter being dismissed on the final ball of the night.  For the ‘Loc the highlights likely included Jurie’s 59 (38), Taimoor’s 35* (28) and Abdul’s 31 (17) with the bat, whilst in the second innings Hamza’s 4-0-16-3 and Louis’s 2-0-7-0 (Louis opening the bowling) were the standout performances with the ball, with Pasty likely now being able to lay claim to holding on to the catch from the highest hit ball of the season and Abid’s lightning-speed glove-work seeing him execute four stumpings.  We’ve the scorecard online, as well as updated averages and statistics, and McCulloch Cup table.  There’s also a match report and some video highlights online.

One of each in Evening League [posted 09/05/17]

The Panthers and Academy both made their entrances to this season’s Evening League tonight, with a fixture each: the Panthers hosting Renfrew, and the Academy over at Hamilton Crescent.  The Panthers ran out winners, easily seeing off Renfrew and winning with just over seven overs to spare chasing 107 for their win to see their unbeaten start to 2017 continue.  But it wasn’t to be for the Academy as they somehow lost the West of Scotland after posting 149.

In fact a Tuesday double looked on until the very end of the match in Partick, the Academy somehow leaking 29 runs from the nineteenth over to hand victory to their hosts [Ed: you really had to be there!].  Reports to come [Ed: and the Academy one might well be worth waiting for!], but for now, we’ve got the scorecards online (here and here), as well as updated averages and statistics and league tables.

Under 13s lose narrowly [posted 08/05/17]

The Under 13s exited this year’s ECB Cup this evening, losing to Ferguslie by just 9 runs.  The match, yet another played in glorious weather, was keenly contested and went nearly all the way with the ‘Loc youngsters still in the hunt in a second innings run-chase until the last couple of overs.  For the visitors two batters dominated, scoring 30 not out each, with the other six batters getting to the middle mustering just 8 between them.  The ‘Loc Under 13s also managed to give each of the players – other than Kshitij who was ‘keeping – a bowl, and it was a decent effort with the ball that saw Ferguslie restricted to 93 for 5 in their innings.  However despite 30 not out from Hasan Malik on debut, 20 from Hassaan and 14 from Abdullah, the ‘Loc run-chase just didn’t ever have enough momentum and the side would finish 9 runs shy of their opponent’s score to see the Paisley club progress in the competition.  The scorecard of the game’s online.

Sunday win over Torrance Community CC [posted 07/05/17]

On another gloriously-sunny day the Panthers entertained Torrance Community CC at Shawholm in a Pro40 match, the first ever match between the two clubs.  Batting first the Panthers posting 264 for 8, with Rambo continuing a productive weekend of run-making with 82, and The Professor‘s rich vein of form with the bat continuing too, with 53.  There were also good contributions from Sobo (39) and Dr Uzzi (26).  Defending 264 should’ve been the proverbial skoosh, however when the number of wides gifted is your opponent’s top scorer, and at least one of their batters made a half century, you know two things: 1. it’s gonna be a long day; and 2. it’s going to be tighter than it should’ve been.  And as it was, though the win was secured, the Panthers only sneaked home by just 9 runs.  We’ve the scorecard online, and there are updated averages and statistics.

A win and a loss on matchday two [posted 06/05/17]

The ‘Loc managed to secure back-to-back league wins today with a home win over Uddingston, defending 228 for 9 having batted first.  In a match that went down to the proverbial wire, the side just did enough to get across the line.  There were runs for Jurie (51), Pasty (46), Muhammad (38), Louis (25) and Owais (21), whilst Ihty (10-2-29-0) and Hamza (10-4-28-3) likely take the bowling plaudits.  You can read a match report online.

Meanwhile at Bothwell Castle Policies the result went the other way as Shawholm lost by five wickets to their Bothwell hosts.  Batting first Uzzair’s 70 was really only given support by Rambo (36), as 211 for 9 was posted.  Then in a frustrating second innings, decisions didn’t seem to go the side’s way as their hosts ran out five-wicket winners, Sobo‘s and Rohail’s braces of wickets proving in vain. We’ve got the scorecards online (here and here), as well as updated averages and statistics and league tables.  There are also some video highlights from the match at Shawholm, as well as great match photo’s taken by Ali Maddock.

Sandy Strang and T Ron Irvine remembered [posted 06/05/17]

Players from Poloc and Uddingston, and the match officials involved in today’s league match between the two clubs at Shawholm observed a minute silence before the start of play to remember the lives of two stalwarts of Western Union cricket who passed away earlier in the week, Sandy Strang and T Ron Irvine.

Under 15s win on opening day [posted 05/05/17]

The Under 15s kicked off another junior league season for the club’s junior sides, travelling to The Tryst to take on Stenhousemuir this evening.  And on a beatifully crisp early summer evening the youngsters defended 94 to secure a 14-run win.  Batting first the Under 15s posted 94, with 32 from Sobo and an unbeaten 30 form Abdul.  Then in a closely-fought second innings, the tide was turned for the ‘Loc when Hassaan opened his spell in the middle overs by returning 2-2-0-2.

And then as the required run-rate rose the home side suffered a middle order collaspe, four wickets falling in consecutive deliveries, Nabeel the bowler.  We’ve the scorecard online, and the first Under 15s averages and statistics.

Upcoming fixtures [posted 04/05/17]

The next five days sees the club scheduled to play seven fixtures.  First up is the opening junior league match of 2017, with the Under 15s travelling to Stenhousemuir on Friday.  Saturday’s two senior mens league matches are both against Uddingston, Poloc at home, Shawholm at Bothwell Castle Policies.  Sunday’s match is a Pro40 against Torrance CC, at Shawholm.  The new week then starts will three more fixtures, the Under 13s starting their new season with the visit of Ferguslie, and Tuesday seeing two Evening League matches, with both the Panthers and Academy sides in T20 action.  Team selections are online, players added as they confirm availability.

Under 10 Kwik Cricket [posted 03/05/17] The season’s schedule of Sunday morning, Under 10, Kwik Cricket is beginning to take shape, and we’ve got details online.  The club hopes to be able to attend as many festivals as possible over the course of the summer, starting with the first festival, down in Alloway, later this month.  More details to come.

Shawholm ease to opening Western Cup win [posted 02/05/17]

Shawholm followed up Saturday’s win on the opening day of the league season with a convincing win over BBC Scotland in the first group stage match in this season’s Western Cup.  The side posted 178 for 1 batting first, after being inserted, Uzzair top-scoring with 98 not out, and CJ giving able assistance up-top, before eventually being dismissed for a nice 59 that included nine 4s.  Uzzair’s knock, from just 67 deliveries, included thirteen 4s and two maximums.  In reply, the visitors struggled to really get going, and would eventually finish on 108 for 6, Hunnain taking 3 for 24, but his “3-for” being over-shadowed by a ridiculous one-handed slip catch from Ahmed-Raza!  The scorecard’s online, as are updated averages and statistics, and the group stage league table.

Sandy Strang [posted 02/05/17]

The club was deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Sandy Strang earlier today.  As he was to likely all cricket clubs, Sandy was a friend of Poloc, and as well as having played for the club in 2003, was often to be found in and around Shawholm during walks in Pollok Park.  A fierce competitor on the field of play, Sandy enjoyed considerable success during a long and illustrious playing career, most notably with near-neighbours Clydesdale, and – latterly – Ferguslie.  This saw him play in no fewer than nine Scottish Cup finals.

Sandy’s sporting achievements were not restricted to cricket however, having gained a football Blue at Cambridge, and playing briefly for Queen’s Park FC.  Sandy was as hugely warm and engaging off the cricket field as he was combative on it, his voice from behind the stumps welcoming every batter who arrived at the crease.  As his long career in teaching and education came to an end, Sandy further developed a burgeoning reputation as a much sought-after after-dinner speaker, on more than one occasion displaying his artistry with the spoken word here at Shawholm. Cricket in Scotland has lost a well-loved and respected figure, and the club’s thoughts are with his family and friends at this time.

April 2017

Another Professorial ton sees Panthers to the derby win [posted 30/04/17]

Usman Amin recorded his second ton for the club today as he and Hunnain led the Panthers to a decisive ten-wicket over Clydesdale in their Sunday League opener at Titwood.  Set 238 to win in their 40 overs, The Professor (129*) and Hunnain (79*) remorsely chased down the required runs and saw the side home with plenty of overs in hand.  This, Usman’s second hundred in consecutive seasons, follows on from his ton at New Williamfield last year.  Earlier, as their hosts posted 237 for 9, there was a “3-for” for Noaman, and a brace of wickets, each, for Faizan and Habib.  So a thumping win on matchday one for the Panthers.  Ali Maddock’s match report is online, as is the scorecard, and as are the first Panthers averages and statistics of a new season.  There’s also video footage of The Professor reaching his hundred on the club’s Twtter feed.

Opening day double [posted 29/04/17] There was double delight today as both senior mens sides recorded opening day league wins over their Ferguslie counterparts.  In matches that were spookily similar as regards scorecards, Shawholm posted 237 for 8 batting first then bowled out their Meikleriggs hosts for 201, whilst, at Shawholm, the ‘Loc posted 235 for 8 and defended this, restricting Ferguslie to 203 all out.  Both wins were good all-round team efforts with lots of players contributing with bat and/or ball.  We’ve got the scorecards online (here and here), as well as the first league averages and statistics of the new season.  There are also match photo’s from Shawholm on the Cricket Europe website, as well as video highlights here online.

Weekend fixtures [posted 27/04/17]

There are three senior league fixtures this weekend: Saturday seeing home and away league games with Ferguslie, Sunday a rescheduled Sunday League match at Titwood against Clydesdale. Saturday’s matches have a noon start, Sunday’s game begins at 1pm.  Team selections are online, players added as they confirm availability.

Double-win Sunday [posted 23/04/17]

Both senior mens XIs won their final pre-season matches today, respectively chasing down targets set by Cambusdoon at New Cambusdoon and Uddingston at Shawholm.  The latter win saw the club retain the Eric Lane Memorial Trophy.  At New Cambusdoon the margin of victory was six wickets as 222 was chased down with little real drama.  At Shawholm meanwhile, 194 was the target, and it was passed with three balls, and four wickets, to spare.  We have match reports online, as well as match scorecards, and updated statistics and averages.

Good run out [posted 22/04/17]

Season 2017 finally got underway today, with a 40 overs-a-side friendly against Edinburgh side Grange, in the Capital.  Batting first the ‘Loc posted 212 in their 40 overs – well actually 39.1 – but failed to defend this, their hosts getting across the finish line with thirteen balls to spare.  With the bat plenty batters “got in” – five getting past 25 – but none “went on” – the highest score being Owais’s 42.  Others to get a start were Asad (38*), Jurie (36), Pasty (27) and Abdul (22).  In truth therefore 212 was a good few short of what should’ve been posted, the side stumbling from 81 for 1 in the sixteenth over (Owais and Pasty going nicely) to 85 for 5, and then failing to use their full allocation of overs.  Some rash shot selection likely was a contributory factor, as was there just being the one partnership over 50.  In the Grange reply, the home side never looked in much trouble despite using nearly their full 40 overs to chase down their target, with the ‘Loc‘s bowlers gifting their hosts 22 runs in wides (9) and no balls (13) to help them on their way.  But a good run out nevertheless for the side, with – already – the differences between indoor practice and outdoor reality starkly clear.  The match scorecard is online.

Weekend pre-season matches [posted 20/04/17]

This weekend sees three scheduled pre-season matches: Poloc XIs variously travelling to Grange (on Saturday) and Ayr (on Sunday), with the Eric Lane Memorial Trophy match also being played on Sunday, at Shawholm.  Teams are online, with players being added in as they confirm availability.

Match cancelled [posted 15/04/17]

Sunday’s second scheduled pre-season match, away at “Henry Thow Oval” against Prestwick, has, like today’s first pre-season match against Clydesdale, been cancelled.  Next Saturday’s away match at the “The Grange” against Grange will, therefore, be the season-opener.

Match cancelled [posted 13/04/17]

Saturday’s opening pre-season match, away at “Titwood” against Clydesdale, has been cancelled, the early April weather not allowing for the preparation of a suitable wicket.  Sunday’s away match at the “Henry Thow Oval” against Prestwick will, therefore, be the season-opener.

Senior mens players meeting, Thursday 13 April [posted 12/04/17]

There will be a short senior mens players meeting on Thursday evening after training.  All players likely to play senior mens cricket this season should try to attend, ideally staying on after training.

Senior mens training – start of outdoor sessions [posted 12/04/17]

Senior men players are reminded that Tuesday evening saw the last indoor training session, and that – starting on Thursday the 13th of April – training will be outdoors at “Shawholm”.  Outdoor sessions start at 6.30pm prompt.  Players should be at the ground in good time for a prompt start.  Early sessions will use the all-weather astro-turf net bays as well as the outfield for fielding and catching practice, and fitness.  In the event of inclement weather, and training sessioms being cancelled, notice will first appear on the club’s Twitter feed (@poloccricket).  If there’s no cancellation notice there then practice remains on.  Cancellation notices will appear as early as practical.

Ground tidy-up and set-up day – thanks [posted 08/04/17]

A big thanks to those who gave their support to the work at the ground today.  In glorious sunshine everything planned to get done was done.  From gutter fixing, through weeding, skip-filling and sweeping, to sightscreen moving, rolling and grass-cutting, a long list of tasks were tackled.  Thanks again to everyone who gave of their time.

Ground tidy-up, 1pm, Saturday the 8th of April [posted 05/04/17]

Members are asked to lend a hand this Saturday at the ground, getting covers on the mobile covers, scoring units in to the scorebox, sightscreens in position, etc.  The work will start at 1pm, and should take around an hour if plenty people show up.  Then, if the weather’s fair, there will be an outdoor net session for players.

March 2017

Cricket taster session [posted 20/03/17]

The club was delighted to run the first of two introductory, “taster” sessions at Netherlee Anchor Boys group this evening.  The group has more than a dozen youngsters aged six to eight years old regularly attending it, and this evening’s session saw them running, throwing, catching and hitting to their hearts content!  Thanks to Alistair Haw and his team for inviting the club’s coaches – you can see some photo’s of the session in the Gallery, taken by Alistair and used with permission.

Cricket Scotland squad pre-season training camp [posted 20/03/17]

Congratulations are due to both Ihtisham Malik and Owais Shah on their selections for a Cricket Scotland pre-season training camp being held at the La Manga resort in Spain in early April.  Both young players are currently part of the Scotland Under 19 squad, and will join other Development XI, A team squad and Under 19 squad players at the camp.

“Overseas Amateur” 2017 [posted 13/03/17]

We’re pleased to confirm that nineteen year old Louis Geldenhuys will be joining the club as its 2017 “Overseas Amateur”.  South African Louis, part of the Easterns Under 19 squad, comes to the club on the recommendation of Jurie Snyman, the club’s Coaching Professional.  Louis (interviewed, left, after his hundred in the Khaya Majola Coca-Cola Cricket Week, and pictured, below) is a left-hand top-order batter, and will arrive in Glasgow in early April.

Pre-season fixtures [posted 13/03/17]

We’ve added another fixture to the pre-season match programme, agreeing to play against Prestwick CC, at Henry Thow Oval, on Sunday the 16th of April.

#morethancricket conference [posted 11/03/17] The club was represented at today’s #morethancricket conference for cricket clubs in Stirling, Nicole Hanlon attending. The day, chaired by Svend Elkjaer of the Sports Marketing Network, opened with remarks from Malcolm Cannon, Cricket Scotland’s CEO before a wide variety of presentations from a number of speakers: The Spartans FC’s Debbie McCulloch, Tynemouth CC’s Russell Perry, Youth Scotland’s Rebecca Simpson, Diane Cameron talking about how clubs can become more like social enterprises, Cricket Scotland’s Communication Manager Ben Fox, The Robertson Trust’s Linda Macdonald, and Nic Wilson, Rosy Ryan and Ian Sandbrook of Cricket Scotland’s Development Team.

2017 membership subscriptions now due [posted 10/03/17] The Annual General Meeting agreed the annual subscription rates for members for 2017.  The rates have not been increased which is good news for members.  With the subscription rates formally agreed, they now fall due for payment and new and existing members alike are asked to pay these as soon as possible to assist the club’s cash flow.

Payment can be made in many different ways: in cash, by cheque made out to “Poloc Cricket Club”, by online bank transfer to the club’s account (“Poloc Cricket Club”, Clydesdale Bank, Pollokshaws Branch, Sort Code: 82-64-22, account number: 80064981), or by debit or credit card using the club’s PayPal account.

Paying by debit or credit card is simple, and can be done online, here on the website.  To pay in this way you do not need a PayPal account yourself, only a debit or credit card.  Click here to go to the “Pay subscriptions” page of the website, and then simply click on the PayPal link button and make payment of the correct membership subscription amount.  Every payment made in this way is acknowledged by email.

Under 18 Scottish Cup draw [posted 02/03/17]

The draw has been made for this season’s Under 18 Scottish Cup.  The draw sees the ‘Loc drawn away, in the quarter-final against the winner of the first round tie between Greenock and Prestwick.  The draw’s online here.

February 2017

NatWest Qualifying Cup draws [posted 28/02/17] Cricket Scotland, today, circulated the draws for the NatWest Under 13 and Under 15 Qualifying Cups.  The draw for the Under 13 competition saw the club handed a home first round match against Ferguslie, whilst the Under 15 draw resulted in an away trip to Glenpark to play Greenock.  The draws are online here.

Start of twice-weekly indoor practice [posted 25/02/17]

Tuesday the 28th of February sees the start of twice-weekly indoor practice.  Junior and Academy practice has been ongoing throughout the winter months, and Tuesday night – 8pm to 10pm at Hutchesons’ Grammar School Sports Hall – sees the start of open, senior practice.  Players are asked to get to “Hutchie” before 8pm to allow for a prompt start at 8pm.  The cost of sessions is £5 per person to cover the cost of hall hire.  We look forward to seeing a good number on Tuesday.

Under 13 and 15 Scottish Cup draws [posted 21/02/17]

The draws have been made for this season’s Under 13 and 15 Scottish Cups.  The younger age-group sees the ‘Loc drawn at home against West of Scotland, the Under 15 competition draw resulting in an away trip to Toytown to play Clydesdale.  The draws are online here.

Abtaha at the Women’s CWC qualifier [posted 13/02/17] We’ve got some good photo’s of Abtaha Maqsood participating in the Women’s Cricket World Cup qualifier in Sri Lanka.  Have a look, they’re in the Gallery, here.

Cup draws, and Evening and Sunday League fixtures, 2017 [posted 03/02/17]

The Western Union completed the issuing of league fixtures and cup draws today when it released the draws for the Rowan Cup, McCulloch Cup (the West League Cup reverting to its original name), the Western Union Cup, the Western Cup and the Greenwood Trophy, as well as the fixtures for the Evening and Sunday Leagues.  We’ve got the cup draws online here, with the fixtures appearing on the respective team pages.

Playing conditions, 2017 [posted 02/02/17]

The Western Union has released the playing conditions for senior Saturday League cricket for season 2017.  These can be read in full online, here.  In its accompanying email, the Western Union highlighted the main changes as being:

• Overs now restricted to a maximum of 10 per bowler.  This was the very clear view of the overwhelming majority of clubs who took the trouble to respond to the questionnaire last autumn.
• Restriction of aggregate 15 overs from overseas players still remains.  Again this reflects the view of a clear majority of clubs.
• Fielding restrictions now aligned to that of the ODI regulations by including a 11 to 40 over restriction.  In practice this is relatively minor.
• Wide wording completely rewritten to make this clearer.  The CMC were of the view that inconsistent interpretation was as much an issue as the rule itself here, and the aim is to assist players and umpires as much as possible in understanding it.

January 2017

Scottish Cup, 2017 draw [posted 27/01/16]

Cricket Scotland issued the draw for this season’s Scottish Cup this morning.  The draw sees the ‘Loc travel to play Glenrothes in round one, on the 14th of May.

Saturday league fixtures released for season 2017 [posted 20/01/17]

The WDCU has published season 2017’s Saturday league fixtures.  The fixture scheduling sees the ‘Loc open their league campaign with home and away matches against Ferguslie – the ‘Holmboys travel to Meikleriggs, and the ‘Loc entertain their Paisley counterparts at home.  The full fixture lists can be found online here and here.

ECB Cups, 2017 [posted 18/01/17] The club’s entered both age-group ECB Cup competitions open to it in season 2017 – at Under 13and 15 age groups. These cup competitions see the early rounds being played locally, and the draws will be made in the next few weeks.

Pre-season matches [posted 17/01/17]

The club is busy organising pre-season friendlies with season 2017 now only three and a half months away.  Fixtures agreed thus far are Poloc XI games against Clydesdale and Grange away and Uddingston at home on the weekends of 15, and 22 and 23, April 2017, and a Shawholm XI game away at Ayr on Sunday 23 April.  The full global fixture schedule, 2017, can be found online here.

Junior fixtures, 2017 [posted 12/01/17]

The WDJCU released its league and cup fixtures today, and we’ve got these online on the various junior age-group pages.  The club has entered teams in the Under 11, 13, 15, 16 and 18 Leagues, in addition to all the cup competitions.  The addition of participation in the Under 16 League means that the opportunities for matches for our young players is even more comprehensive.  The full league fixture list can also be seen online here.

Abtaha Maqsood [posted 10/01/17]

Everyone at the club was delighted to hear of Abtaha Maqsood’s selection for the Scotland Women’s squad to take part in the upcoming Womens ICC CWC qualifying tournament in Sri Lanka.  Abtaha will leave with the squad, for the UAE in the first instance for warm up matches, on the 29th of January, before heading to Sril Lanka where the side is in a group with South Africa, Pakistan, Bangladesh and Papua New Guinea.  Congratulations to Abtaha.