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Friday 29 March 2024

The first John Hardy Shield match of 2021 between Standard Athletic CC and Chateau de Thoiry CC took place under sunny skies on Sunday 20 June 2021. Having won the toss and electing to bat, Thoiry started their innings briskly with some expansive shots, racking up a 51-run opening partnership after only 8 overs. However, following Nisseem's (2 wickets) breakthrough in the 9th over, and some tight bowling by Steve (2 wickets) and Mahesh (2 wickets), SAC were soon on top, restricting the Thoiry run-rate and taking wickets at regular intervals. Supported by sharp ground-fielding and some outstanding catches in the deep, SAC maintained the pressure and wrapped up the Thoiry innings, with Jan taking 4 wickets and the opposition ending on 151 all out.

SAC never looked in any danger throughout the run chase. Mahesh (24) and Steve (23) provided a solid opening platform with an opening partnership of 54 runs, from which the rest of the team could build upon, keeping the scoreboard ticking over and dispatching any wayward bowling to the boundary. In the end, SAC were guided to a comprehensive 6 wicket victory in the 31st over by Henry (20*) and a powerful innings by Tharanga (65*). A confident Standard Athletic now go into next weekend's second match hoping to lift the John Hardy Shield with a match to spare!

The result – a 6 wicket victory for Standard Athletic