Suffolk 2nd XI lose despite backs-to-the-wall display

May 31, 2024

SUFFOLK 2nd XI lost their three-day friendly with Buckinghamshire by seven wickets despite a backs-to-the-wall batting display.

After conceding 507 runs and then trailing by 275 runs on first innings, Suffolk were forced to follow-on in the fixture at Sudbury CC.

Nico Boje, who had scored a century in Suffolk’s first innings, made 56 in the second, while opener Ollie Burle scored 60 off 79 balls.

After three wickets went down for the addition of only one run to leave Suffolk struggling at 167 for 5, Alex Oxley and Tom Harper added 92 for the sixth wicket, before Harper fell for 60.

Oxley was eventually last man out for 55 after facing 178 deliveries as Suffolk were dismissed for 351 off 111.1 overs.

That left Bucks requiring 77 runs for victory which came in 16.2 overs, with Luke Froggatt (pictured above) taking 2 for 32, just before the rain came.

The start on day one on Tuesday had been delayed by rain until 3.20pm, but Buckinghamshire’s openers then tucked into the Suffolk attack, Max Harsham (152) and Vansh Jani (157) sharing an opening stand of 204 in just 38 overs.

Billy Dodds, batting at No.6, added 94 from 83 balls at Bucks posted 507 all out in 89.5 overs.

Boje’s 101 off 108 balls with 16 fours and three sixes was the stand-out performance of Suffolk’s reply, Ned Overbury’s unbeaten 37 off 66 the next highest score in their 232 all out and they were asked to follow-on.

Suffolk head coach Adam Mansfield said: “A three-day game is a fantastic way to start our 2nd XI programme this year. Over the past two years, these long-format fixtures have been a valuable learning experience for the players involved, allowing them to transition smoothly into the Championship 1st XI without looking out of their depth and understanding the ebb and flow of multi-day matches.
“Nico Boje batted brilliantly, scoring one of the most impressive 2nd XI centuries I’ve seen. He’s been in great form for his club and is surely aiming to break into the 1st XI.
“This match was also a great learning experience for our young bowlers. Despite being light in the seam department, it was encouraging to see the emerging talent. They all gave their best effort for three days, and I’m sure they’ll feel sore tomorrow!
“Alex Oxley nearly achieved the miracle needed to save the game, showcasing his experience and ability to bat for over 150 balls. He has been one of our best young players in recent years and is now transitioning into a senior role, where he’ll need to lead the way for the younger lads.”

 

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