August 21st, 2006
Striding to New Grounds (Part 2)
Las Vegas Cricket Club is gaining more exposure in the Las Vegas valley, as they become the first team ever to get community recognition. A recent article published in the Henderson bi-weekly newspaper made front page in the sports section. The one-page column explained the diversity in the club and featured a few players who are making strides in the team. The club hopes to gain members who are interested in the both leisure and competitive aspect of the sport.
Match 2: Salt Lake Cricket Union versus Las Vegas Cricket Club
After a good night’s rest, the Xpress were positive in achieving a win in their second match despite the lack of players. The Xpress were unfortunate to play with 9 players on both days and the lack of two players showed in their batting attack. Albeit, the Xpress were hoping to offer the hosts good competition and claim a victory at the end of the day.
Unlike the Bombers, SLCU proved that they are the best team and hosts from the get-go. SLCU won the toss and decided to bat first. An intelligent move by the host as they were already familiar with the batting conditions. The Xpress attacked the SCLU batting from the start. Zipping deliveries by Lenin and Jahangir added some pressure to their opponents; however, fielding mishaps yet again let the Xpress down early in the innings. A quick pep talk by the captain and vice-captain helped the Xpress tighten their game.
SLCU dominated the Xpress as their veteran players smashed some excellent shots around the park and managed to post a formidable total of 209 in 35 overs.
The Xpress, who were trying to prove victorious needed to get to a good start. Adnan, the nimble wicket-keeper/batsman opened along with Dabir. Both looked confident, but failed to produce any runs as they got out cheaply. Lenin, Avi and Jahangir stepped up to the plate and tried to stabilize the inning, but in vain despite Jahangir’s half-century. There was some last minute effort from the middle-order and tail-enders, but at the end, the Xpress failed to come close to the winning target.
LVCC did not have enough resources in their camp to compete against a formidable SLCU batting line-up. The next trip will hopefully be victorious for the Xpress as they will be looking to carry a full team with their own teammates.
Submitted by: Adnan Khawaja