Stitches 'n' Sixes: York CC's Jude Memorial Joy

In a spirited contest played in memory of dear member Jude, York Cricket Club faced off against Jaffna College CC in a 40-over fixture at Glendon York Cricket Club, Ontario, Canada. The sunny day set a perfect backdrop for this memorial game, where the winner receives the rolling trophy.

Jaffna College CC won the toss and elected to bat. Despite a promising start, they struggled to build momentum, eventually being bowled out for 130 in 30.4 overs. Key contributions came from Sarakan Satkunananthan, who scored a brisk 35 off 36 balls, and P J Kenny, who added a valuable 17 off 20 balls. The bowling attack of York CC was spearheaded by Shawn Rankothgedera, who took 4 wickets for 18 runs, and Echi Fernando, who claimed 3 wickets for 18 runs.

In response, York Cricket Club's chase began steadily with openers Dominic Dumenil and Pratha Sawant. Dominic provided a solid foundation with his steady 30 off 72 balls. At 74-3 in 21 overs, the match was evenly poised. However, York accelerated impressively, completing the chase in just the next 5 overs. Kannan Viswanathan's explosive knock of 37 off 14 balls, including two 4s and three 6s that sailed out of the park, showcased his confidence and power, helping York reach the target with ease.

An unfortunate incident occurred when Venkat Sivaprakash injured his finger attempting a return catch, requiring a visit to the emergency room where he received six stitches. We wish him a swift recovery, with an estimated recuperation time of 7-10 days.

The day concluded with Dominic Dumenil proudly lifting the rolling trophy on behalf of York Cricket Club, amidst cheers from his family and teammates. This match not only honored Jude's memory but also highlighted the team's resilience and camaraderie.

Picture courtesy: Shawn, Kannan, Dominic

Stand-in Captain; Shawn Ranko in his match report says,

"After a tough loss last weekend, York bounced back to its winning ways with a strong all around performance and win against Jaffna College.

Jaffna College won the toss and elected to bat first on a beautiful sunny day.  The opening bowling tandem of Shawn and Echi gave the team a strong start and had the opponents in trouble early as they slumped to 39 for 5 after 11 overs.  Jaffna College then was able to muster up a couple of good partnerships and were looking to mount a late charge towards a fighting total.  They were at 119 for 7 when Gopi got a crucial break through, to get one of their main batsman edged to the keeper Kannan, who took a blinder.  Harry and Shawn were able to wrap up the Jaffna College innings and ensure their tail did not wag.  The opponents were all out for  130 in 31 overs.  Shawn picked up 4 wickets and Echi took 3 wickets.

When York went into bat, Dominic gave us a solid, sensible start with his 30.  We lost 3 wickets, but then the blistering partnership of Kannan (37 off 14 balls) and Pradap (16 off 18 balls) chased down the opponents target in 26 overs.

Other Notes:

• Thanks, Gopi for an excellent tea served.  Special shoutout for the ice cold falooda served on a hot day.

• We wish Venkat a speedy recovery after his webbing was split trying to take a return catch off his own bowling.  He went to the hospital and got 6 stiches put on"

Aite Cheers! and See you guys in the next blog!