Cockspur Cup T20 Quarter Final heralds big weekend
 Chester Boughton Hall v Bootle, Sunday September 5th, 1.30pm
Although old rivals, Chester and Boootle rarely meet these days since Chester moved from the Liverpool Competition to the Cheshire County League in 1997. But there are strong links between the sides and David Snellgrove brings a side similarly placed in their League to Chester.
A great afternoon is instore with the bar open from 12.00pm and an additional outside bar. A barbecue will also be available with plenty of razamataz too.
Gladstone Small* is lined up to present the man of the match award.
The prize for the winner is a clash with three other club sides in a finals day at Hampshire CCC's Rose Bowl on Thursday September 23 - the day after England host Pakistan there. And the games will be live on Sky Sports. A further triumph sees the winning side get a 10 day all expenses paid cricketing trip to Barbados!
Before Chester can focus on the T20 there's the little matter of hosting Nantwich in the League the day before. Andy Newton's side currently sit second in the table to Hyde, gunning for their first Premier League Championship.
The 2nd XI travel to Nantwich, the 3rds host Warrington and the 4ths go in the opposite direction. Please remember all Saturday games get underway half an hour earlier.
*Gladstone Small hosts one of our sponsors - ITC's - Winter Tour to Australia.Click here for details
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Keggy meets his match
 Few batsman have tamed Keggy over the years but maybe here is somebody who can.
Meet Margie, the new bride.
And we'll forget about all the cliches of bowling a maiden over etc - just wish them both the very best for the future.
Alex and Margie tied the knot in Bromborough on Bank Holiday Sunday so at least he avoided a Saturday.
Wonder if she's any good at teas...
Congratulations from all at CBH!
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Rain has the final say
 Bowdon 214-6 (51 overs), Chester Boughton Hall 158-8 (35 overs). Match drawn
Chester were well poised in their run chase at Bowdon when the last of several showers of the day put paid to what could have been an interesting finale.
As it was, from 84-2, Chester were then faced with chasing 131 from just 12 overs. And although Jim Gillson took up probably an unrealistic challenge, Chester were only able to grab one extra point than they would have taken from an abandonment.
Bowdon, fighting for their Premier League lives won the toss and made first use of a decent South Down Road track to post 214-6 in a game restricted to 102 overs. Mainstay was skipper Carl Hey with 68 and prolific Lancashire 2nd XI bat, Jordan Clark with 76. Missing Alex Kegg as he prepares for his wedding, Chester opened their bowling with young Mike Robinson and Trevor Fabien. The spinners had a significant say too as Ajit Ranjan collected 2 wickets and Jack Williams 2 to go with one apiece for Robinson and Fabien. The Chester fielding was tight at times and they were confident of chasing down the host's total.
After a confident start, Warren Goodwin was first to go for Chester for 16 as he drove Hey's loosening first ball full toss like a rocket back to the bowler who somehow clung on. With spin operating from both ends and little turn however, Ogilby and Robinson began to take charge. Robinson was next out and at 84-2 from 23 overs, the rains came.
There looked little chance of a resumption with monsoon weather engulfing the ground but somehow, with the efforts of both players and positive thinking umpires, the game re-started an hour or so later with an adjustment meaning 125 was required from just 12 overs.
With an eye on batting practice for next week's T20 final, Gillson ordered his troops to go for it and with Bowdon seeking extra bowling points, the challenge was on.
In reality though, it was a longshot as one by one the Chester batsman holed out to bigh shots. Ogilby top scored with 46 followed by Ollie Law with 20 before Chester closed down the last over. The gamble however had earned Chester one extra point to finish on 8.
3rd XI: Birkenhead Park 54, Chester Boughton Hall 55-0. Chester won by 10 wickets
The 3rd XI entertained top of the table Birkenhead Park at home and won in fine style to earn a welcome maximum 25 points and climbed out of the relegation zone.
Park skipper Kenny Crofton won the toss and elected to bat on a wicket dampened by early rain. Opening bowlers Mark Slater ad Steve Treen took a while to adjust to the windy conditions but Slater made the breakthrough dismissing both openers in quick succession. With Treen struggling manfully against a strong wind, skipper John Thistlewood turned to Pete Balac which proved to be a match winning move as Balac ran through Park’s batsmen in a remarkable spell taking 6 for 8 in just 7 overs. Slater finished on 2-27 and Ben Murphy uprooted the stumps twice taking 2 -0 in a devastating 7 ball burst at the end as Park collapsed to 54 all out in 22 overs.
Chester had little difficulty in knocking off the runs as Jonty Hedgecoe with a hard hitting 31 not out and Mike Treen with 18 not out cruised to the required total in just 9 overs and an early finish before tea.
The 3rds are at home to Warrington next Saturday in their penultimate game of the season.
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Greetings from Oz
 The old boy still follows us from afar!
Pictured on yet another holiday is CBH resident Aussie supporter, Artie Pritchard sporting CBH cap and shirt.
Still calls us every Saturday for the scores and texts during matches (whilst nodding off in front of the tv).
You really would think he'd have something better to do!
Best wishes to all the Pritchards from your friends at Chester.
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T20 Triumph leads to showdown with Bootle
 Chester Boughton Hall's reward for a tremendous performance at Wood Lane means they now face Bootle at Chester in the Northern Regional Final on September 5. Scorecards Pix
The area final was played out at Wood Lane CC near Stoke in front of a large and vociferous Chester following as first Chester beat Mochdre in a semi final and then edged a dramatic game over the excellent hosts, Wood Lane.
Warren Goodwin was presented with the man of the day award for a big hitting 77 in the final but there were key performances throughout.
Semi Final: Mochdre 120-8 (15 overs), Chester Boughton Hall 124-3 (8.1 overs). Chester won by 7 wickets
With Ajit Ranjan inelligible for the tournament, Jim Gillson drafted in Ollie Thompson to the side that triumphed in the Cheshire League Finals. Alex Kegg also returned.
With a wet pitch delaying the start, both semi finals were reduced to 15 overs. The short boundaries of the Wood Lane ground meant high scores were likely and Mochdre put up 120-8 having won the toss and batted. There were two wickets apiece for Alex Kegg, Jack Williams, Mike Robinson and Warren Goodwin.
Chester's reply was electric as they cruised to 124-3 off just 8.1 overs. Goodwin (30) and Ogilby (45) hit 8 sixes between them in an opening stand of 61 and Trevor Fabien hit a quick fire 23 to see his side home.
Final: Chester Boughton Hall 208-6 (20 overs), Wood Lane 202-4 (20 overs). Chester won by 6 runs
This really was fireworks from the off. Ogilby went to the very first ball then fine hitting from Goodwin (77) and Ollie Law (40) added 87 before Law was caught in the deep. Fabien blasted 38 and Matt Grifiths crafted 20 to finish on an enormous 208-6.
Any thoughts that this would be a walkover went after Fabien's first over went for 23 as the hosts set about their response. Up with the rate throughout, the atmosphere was tense with a vocal home crowd and tremendous Chester backing baying on their sides.
With the reply in full flow, perhaps the turning point came when Gillson introduced Griffiths to the attack and he took two wickets in two balls. First a great boundary catch from Robinson and then an edge from skipper Dan Brierley who was threatening to win the game on his own.
The 19th over, bowled by Goodwin yielded only 3 runs and it was left to Law to bowl a nervy last over which although old friend Jeff Maynard hit a six from the last ball, was enough to see Chester home and spark jubilant scenes from the massed support.
Chester are indebted to the officials of Wood Lane CC and the North Staffs League who organised a splendid day. (Pictures to follow)
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Hall slip up as Park edge it
 Chester Boughton Hall 125 all out (51 overs), Oulton Park 126-8 (47.1 overs). Oulton Park won by 2 wickets
Oulton Park grabbed a dramatic 2 wicket victory to leap frog Chester and go into third place after an intense and fluctuating game at Filkins Lane.
Clearly stating his intentions to go for big points, Jim Gillson won the toss for the home side and chose to bat on what proved a difficult pitch.
Runs proved a premium under leaden skies and it was only Warren Goodwin who really got to grips with the difficult surface. When unfortunately run out for 43, it was the first time he'd failed to make 100 in his last 5 league innings.He did however become the first batsman this season to top 1,000 runs in the league.
Gillson made 19 and Matt Griffiths 13 as Chester limped to 125 with 3 wickets apiece for Guy Emmett, Robin Taylor and Nathan Dumelow.
145 felt 20 or so runs too short but with 'Park reeling at 47-5, Chester became odds on favourites. With the 'big guns' of Ben Spendlove, Louis Bentley, Johnny Kettle and Dumelow back in the shed, Chester were fighting back well. Opening the bowling with spinner Ajit Ranjan, the run chase was stifled.
As so often happens though, an unsung hero took centre stage. First Nick James and Ben Gough added a crucial 43 for the sixth wicket and then with wickets falling around him, James held his nerve to steal victory at 126-8. Ranjan finished with an admirable 4-55 and there were two wickets for Alex Kegg and Goodwin.
2nd XI: Oulton Park 99 all out, Chester Boughton Hall 94 all out
Andy Pembroke's 2nd XI just missed out in a low scoring game at Little Budworth.
Having bowled the home side out for 99 on a green pitch (Dan Riley 3-1, Grant Goodwin 5-54), the batsman fell just 5 runs short. The skipper top scored with an excellent 40 but Riley (13) was the only other Chester player to make double figures.
Despite the loss, Pembroke was upbeat about his side's performance who continue to make significant progress.
3rd XI: Urmston 265-8, Chester Boughton Hall 179-8. Match drawn
Chester won the toss and put Urmston in to bat on a soft pitch. Luke Hughes made the breakthrough and picked up 2 wickets but Urmston then consolidated with Bilal Hanif hitting 85.
Guy Dumbavand bowled a tidy 6 over spell and Peter Balac put in a steady reliable stint to restrict scoring and picked up one wicket. Steve Treen bowled like a demon in his second spell and he and brother Mike took 2 skied catches in a caught Treen bowled Treen entertaining passage of play. Steve finished with a well deserved 4 wickets and Luke Hughes with 3. Mike Jones, Craig Evans and Joe Killoran also bowled well but suffered at the hands of some aggressive Urmston hitting.
In reply, Chester lost early wickets but Adam and Guy Dumbavand (both remarkably still awake after an all night flight from holiday to the West Indies) steadied the innings until Adam was caught at mid off for 25. Guy continued to anchor the innings against some strong sledging but showed great maturity in working his way to a cultured 60 until being run out in bizarre circumstances.
Chester were then up against it and abandoned all hope of a win concentrating instead on batting out the remaining overs. Luke Hughes and John Thistlewood mounted a last wicket rearguard defence as the fielders crowded the bat and Chester finished on 179 -8 to earn the draw and 10 points to Urmston’s 16.
Next Saturday’s game is against Birkenhead Park and the Thirds need to pick up points in their remaining 3 games to climb out of the relegation zone.
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Now it's 4 tons in the last 4 league games for Goodwin
 Urmston 209 all out (54.3 overs), Chester Boughton Hall 215-4 (48.2 overs). Chester won by 6 wickets Scorecard
Warren Goodwin (111) and Ollie Law (80) added 165 for Chester's third wicket partnership and Ajit Ranjan earlier took 5-51 as Chester's unbeaten run saw them climb to fourth in the table.
Incredibly it was Goodwin's fourth ton in as many league games as well as a hundred in a 20/20 and for Lancashire seconds during the last two weeks.
But this Chester performance was an all round fine display.
Despite recent poor weather, the Urmston ground looked a picture and winning the toss, Urmston batted. Without the injured Alex Kegg, Chester's pace attack nagged away and were rewarded with early wickets for Trevor Fabien and Dave Atkin. Ranjan did the main damage however as he picked up a tremendous 5-51 to reduce the home side to a useful 209 on a difficult pitch. AAdam Landry top scored with 61.
The Urmston bowling gave nothing away and after Steve Ogilby and Ed Roberts had gone early, Chester were limping at 18-2. Great application by Goodwin and Law saw them hold the fort but Chester were slipping well below the rate and only had 57 runs on the board after 23 overs.
At that point, both batsman upped the ante to strike a succession of fours and sixes. Fabien had a cameo 17 at the end and Chester galloped home with 7 overs to spare.
Killoran takes 5-12 for 2nd XI
12 year old Harry Killoran took a sensational 5-12 and youngster Ollie Thompson made 87 not out as Chester seconds triumphed over Urmston. The home side posted 199-5 in an entertaining match before bowliong out the visitors.
Young Killoran made the headlines earlier this year when he made a late debut for the 1st XI. The Bishop Schol pupil has also enjoyed great success with Cheshire U13s.
The 3rd XI's game at Macclesfield fell victim to the weather and the 4th XI lost a decent game by 3 wickets at home to Marple / Mellor.
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It's ours! The day in pictures
 Chester won the Red Insurance 20/20 League Cup as they beat Oulton Park in the semi final and edged it over Didsbury in the final.
It's a great day at Filkins Lane. Didsbury beat Alderley Edge in their semi final to set-up the showdown and the final doesn't disappoint.
Jim Gillson lifts the trophy and the kids do us proud with some great all round performances.
Posting 174 in the semi final against Oulton Park, Eddie Roberts hits 48 (including a huge straight six) and Ollie Law is 43 not out. Chester get home with Warren Goodwin taking 4-16 and Law 3-20 to reduce 'Park to 127-9.
Didsbury draw first blood in the final as Goodwin is run out at the non-striker's end off the first ball and two further run outs leave Chester on 21-3.
Law (45) and Trevor Fabien (24) then blast the side out of trouble to reach 141 and fine bowling from Ajit Ranjan, Jack Williams and Mike Robinson (3-22) together with excellent fielding and three great stumpings from Steve Ogilby sees the hosts home to their first trophy since topping Division 1 in 2006. Didsbury close on 122-9 and Law is named man of the match.
Scorecard and Newsletter report of Finals Day
Jim Gillson receives the Red Insure T20 Trophy from Ron Graham
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Bobs gets his prize
 Following on from his 218 for the 2nd XI against Alderley Edge in July, Bobby Evans has been presented with his award for Cheshire County League Player of the Month for July.
Bob's tremendous feat has seen him launched into 1st XI reckoning and came on the back of a number of high scores, emulating his form of 2008.
Bob is seen here receiving his award from League Chairman, David Humpage at teatime during last week's home match with Toft.
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Another ton for Goodwin as Chester take Toft
 Chester Boughton Hall 234-3 dec (51 overs), Toft 124 all out (39.3 overs). Chester won by 109 runs Scorecard
There's no stopping Warren Goodwin as he hit his fifth hundred in 15 days to condemn Toft at Filkins Lane. A red hot streak that started with 117 against Bramhall followed by 105 for Lancashire 2nds, then 118 v Oxton and 125 v Irby continued on a grey afternoon.
And for the third week running Goodwin and Stephen Ogilby shared a century partnership, infact in this case they added 212 for the first wicket. All this after a difficult start in sticky conditions.
Goodwin finished unbeaten on 122 from 138 balls blasting 3 sixes and 15 fours. Ogilby's fine form continued as he made 88 after Jim Gillson had won the toss and decided to bat.
The Toft reply threatened early on but some excellent bowling from Ajit Ranjan (4-43) and Goodwin (3-20) did the bulk of the damage as the visitors slipped to 125 all out from 39.3 overs. Chester take 25 points from the match and move up to fifth place.
Andy Pembroke's 2nd XI slid to defeat at Toft, the 3rd XI drew with Neston and the 4ths went down at Neston.
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5 out of 5 sees a Chester winning weekend!
 It's not often that all 4 senior sides triumph of a weekend and it tasted even sweeter for the Club when the 1st XI added a Sunday morning victory at Irby to book a place in next week's T20 Finals Day at their home ground.
The 1sts won by 5 wickets at Oxton on Saturday with the 2nds beating Widnes, the 3rds getting the better of Brooklands and the 4ths knocking over Oxton.
It's another Goodwin ton in Oxton triumph
Oxton 199-9 (53 overs), Chester Boughton Hall 200-5 (46 overs). Chester won by 5 wickets. Scorecard
Warren Goodwin struck 118 as Chester took the points in a lively encounter at Oxton. On an overcast afternoon interupted by rain, the visitors chased down the required 200 to win with 3 overs to spare in the gloom.
A delayed start saw the match reduced to 106 overs and Jim Gillson put Oxton in on a green track. Yet with Alex Kegg struggling with a back injury, the home side rattled up an impressive 199-9, Cheshire's inform Lee Dixon top scoring with 52. A 73 run 4th wicket partnership between Dixon and Sean Moore (33) moved the score from 47-3 to 120-4 and a dogged 36 not out from Pete Benson ensured a challenging target. Pick of the Cheshire bowlers were Goodwin (3-42) and Ajit Ranjan (3-45).
Following on from their 181 opening stand last week, Goodwin and Steve Ogilby put on 110 for the first wicket as Chester made a brisk start to their chase. A 45 minute rain delay livened things up but with Eddie Roberts digging in for 36, Chester cruised to 192-1 before an inexplicable panic saw a flurry of late wickets. Ranjan finally nudged his side over the line with 3 overs to spare. Chester are now unbeaten in four and move up to sixth in the table.
Andy Pembroke's 2nd XI continued their recent good form with a fine win over Widnes. The visiters posted 177 which included four run outs and 2 wickets for young Harry Killoran. Matthew Griffiths hit 96 not out and Phil Thomas 71 as Chester were convincing 9 wicket winners.
The 3rds won well at Brooklands who batted first and made 204, Pete Balac taking 4-29 for Chester, Mark Slater 4-50. Chester got home with five wickets down, Ollie Snowdon making 45, Ian Metcalf 42 and John Legry 30 not out.
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ESCA Bunbury Festival 2010
 The English School's Association Bunbury Festival is coming to Chester next week with matches at Chester Boughton Hall, Neston, Alvanley, Christleton and Tattenhall.
The annual event provides the opportunity to watch the finest Under 15s in the Country performing, many of whom will progress to senior County honours and some may go on to represent their Country.
Chester hosts matches on Monday July 26 when London and the East take on the Midlands in a 50 over match from 10.45am. On the Friday morning from 10.30am we host two 20/20 matches - the 3rd/4th place play off and the grand final.
Your support is most welcome and we'd like member's help too. Please call Jim on 07900 975826.
Full details of the festival Click Here
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Ton up Goodwin but Chester cant force win at Bramhall
 Chester Boughton Hall 260-6 (51 overs), Bramhall 214-9 (59 overs). Match drawn Scorecard
Warren Goodwin hit 117 and Steve Ogilby 63 as Chester piled on the runs against Bramhall but couldn't quite grab victory. Their opening partnership put on 181 for the vistitors who dominated throughout but were thwarted by a fine last wicket stand between Bramhall's Simon Wilkinson and Andy Hayes.
Earlier Bramhall had won the toss and put Chester in to bat on an overcast, damp afternoon. Ogilby and Goodwin in particular ignored ideal seaming conditions to lay into the attack from the off. Goodwin's 50 came off just 39 balls and when he was finally out for 117, he'd struck 4 sixes and 17 fours. In-form Ogilby compiled an excellent 63 and with Chester 181-1 from 38 overs, Jim Gillson was able to switch his middle order to accomodate the youngsters in the side - the most succesful being Ollie Thompson who made 19. Gillson declared after 51 overs with a decent total of 260-6.
Chester struggled to make the breakthrough early on as Bramhall put on 55 for the first wicket before Goodwin trapped Nick Atherton for 19. John Birchall added 38 and Mike Bolgar 55 but wickets were falling regularly to the nagging Alex Kegg and accurate Ajit Ranjan. Yet Bramhall's resistance, now led by skipper Nick Cantello gave them a small glimpse of victory although at 166-5 it was looking more than a challenging chase.
Mike Robinson got the breakthrough taking 3-21 from 5 overs which signalled a hasty rearguard action from the home side. And when the 9th wicket fell with 7 overs left, Chester sensed a hard earned win. Yet Wilkinson and Hayes held strong and despite a couple of scares managed to bat out for the draw. Bramhall finished on 214-9, Ranjan taking 2-45, Kegg 2-48. Chester took 17 points, Bramhall 9.
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Andrew Flintoff at Chester Boughton Hall
 Top of his profession and a top man!
That was the verdict of a sell out audience as Freddie Flintoff came to Chester Boughton Hall.
The great man rarely takes part in events such as this and those privileged to hear and meet him will long remember a top night as he talked about his early days in cricket, playing for Lancashire and England and of course winning the Ashes.
He also gave an insight into the great work his charity the Flintoff Foundation undertakes raising funds to build, develop and improve Child Rehabilitation & Physiotherapy Units throughout the UK. AF Foundation
Taking questions from the floor, there was much to cover and he ducked nothing.
And Freddie had time for everybody too shaking more hands than can be imagined and posing for more photographs than a centrefold.
It was great to see him at the Club and just a shame we couldn't talk him into putting his boots on for us on Saturday!
More photos
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Goodwin grabs 5 and Atkin returns in Chester win
 Didsbury 178 all out (58.3 overs), Chester Boughton Hall 181-6 (49.1 overs). Chester won by 4 wickets Scorecard
Warren Goodwin grabbed 5-45 for Chester as they managed a much needed win at home to Didsbury.
With Alex Kegg unfit, it meant a recall for the experienced David Atkin (left), not seen in Chester colours for a couple of years. And Atkin made a significant impact with an excellent 18 over spell, taking 1-48.
And the importance of the win was huge for Chester who have to look back to a home game with Oxton in May since they last tasted league success.
It wasn't plain sailing however as the game went down to the wire. Inserting Didsbury after winning the toss, Jim Gilson's side toiled early on with opener Martin Fisher top scoring on 73. Didsbury's opening stand put on 86 but from then on wickets fell regualrly resulting in batting through for 58 overs to finish on 178 all out.
Whilst Chester used five bowlers, Atkin and Ajut Ranjan bowled 18 each with Goodwin's 5-45 coming off 15.
Didsbury's wily spin attack was likely to test Chester's reply and they slipped up early on as Goodwin fell for just 1. Eddie Robert's resurgence than continued as he and Steve Ogilby added 94 for the second wicket before Ogilby fell for a well grafted 52.
The innings required sound application as the spin onslaught of Paul Sperring, Johnny Fawcett and Jamie Maltman took over and nerves were jangling when Roberts was fourth out for 48.
In the end Chester re-grouped and a fine 27 from Ranjan supported by Gillson's 11 eventually saw the home side creep over the line with 11 balls to spare at 181-6.
Other results: Neston and Toft drew, Alderley Edge beat Urmston, Nantwich beat Oulton Park, Hyde beat Oxton, Bowdon beat Bramhall.
Chester's 2nds were rained off at Didsbury whilst the 3rds won at Upton and the 4ths drew at home to Upton, Ed Filer scoring a fine century.
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Gillson and Roberts in the runs but Chester draw at Hyde
 Chester Boughton Hall 277-5 dec (55 overs), Hyde 211-7 (55 overs). Match drawn Scorecard
Jim Gillson hit a season's best 94 not out and Eddie Roberts 83 as Chester had to settle for a draw away at high-flying Hyde. Chester managed to knock down seven Hyde wickets but a resilient fifth wicket stand of 110 between Chris Pilkington (65) and Danny Berry (51) and a rearguard action from Danny Leach (27*) frustrated the visitors.
A trip to the hospitable and picturesque Hyde is always one of the season's highlights and a good spirited match saw Gillson win the toss for Chester and bat first. The home side struck an early blow as Warren Goodwin was dismissed from his first ball but Steve Ogilby, together with Roberts added 66 before Ogilby went for 32. Tom Young's bowling was proving a challenge and when Ollie Law was unfortunately given out with the score on 84, Chester were rocking. Vintage Roberts and Gillson then took on the attack and when Roberts went for an excellent 83, Alit Ranjan (11) and Matt Griffiths (13*) were able to assist Gillson in a late flurry. Gillson was unable to get enough strike to force a well deserved 100 but Chester were reasonably content to finish on 277-5, Young taking 3-92.
A seamer short, Goodwin opened the bowling for Chester and has rarely bowled quicker as he removed first veteran Dave Fitzsimmons for 8, Mike Morris for 11 and the prolific James Duffy for 8. Pilkington and Berry's stand changed the game however with 110 added in just over an hour. Gillson juggled his bowlers as he sought the elusive first win since May but the home side held good. Pilkington was out for 65 and then spectators were treated to the entertaining sight of the experienced Danny Leech coming in injured at number seven with a runner. Chaotic at times but mainly amusing, Leech weathered the late storm to hold good and see Hyde hold out for a draw at 211-7. Goodwin finished with 3-44 and Ranjan 3-62, Chester taking 16 points, Hyde 9. Chester have a crunch game at home to Didsbury next.
Chester out of Cheshire Cup
Chester Boughton Hall 154-9 (45 overs), Alderley Edge 157-1 (25 overs). Alderley won by 9 wickets
Chester won the toss and batted first on a dust bowl of a wicket. With little rain of late, wickets are becoming a challenge to prepare. The openers, Ollie Law and Steve Ogilby got off to a bright start putting on 36 before Ogilby was caught at slip. Warren Goodwin fell for no score for the second game running and Ed Robert's dismissal for 9 left Chester at 59-3. Law went for 25, Gillson top scored with 30 and Ajit Ranjan struck a breezy 21. Chester's score felt 20-30 runs short.
Mark Currie enjoys playing against Chester and made light work of steering Alderley to victory. He and Alan Day put on 137 for the first wicket before Mike Robinson removed him for 89. Day finished on 44 not out as the visitors cantered home by 9 wickets after just 25 overs.
2nd XI: Chester Boughton Hall drew with Hyde
Chester won the toss and decided to have a bat on a wicket that was likely to offer more to the bowlers as the day went on. Bob Evans and Phil Thomas opened the batting but were soon both victims of Hyde's opening attack. Andy Pembroke joined the crease along with Karl Steadman and started to steady the ship before Stedman played on for 22. Pembroke remained at the crease but the middle order was not able to support and Chester lost 3 wickets for 11 runs. Tom Evans then joined Pembroke and started to play his naturally game timing the ball well and picking up boundaries. After a good partnership which saw the total growing into something competitive Pembroke went for 54. Evans continued to score at pace with some fantastic boundary strikes and was well supported by Grant Goodwin who hit a quick 14 and Dave Fished who finished on 10 not out. Evans finished on 65 not out, an innings which certainly proved a match saver and one which offered the bowlers a chance.
Hyde came out to bat looking positive as ever and raced to 40 mainly dealing in boundaries of the opening attack and making good use of a quick outfield. Grant Goodwin then made the breakthroughs removing Hemmings caught by an outstanding low catch at gully by Fisher. He then also had the number 3 caught by Stedman at cover. Runs however continued to flow and it was then the bowling partnership of Dan Riley and Harry Killoran that continued to the end of the innings. Killorian was making his second team league debut and bowled with great maturity holding a good line and length, turning the ball into the right handers. It was two well flighted deliveries that bowled both Hdye's 5 & 6 and restricted the lower order. Dan Riley at the other end was as reliable as ever and picked up 4 wickets with some very well thought out bowling. Chester didn't quite have enough runs on the board to finish Hyde off but a very good game of cricket ended in a draw. Special mention must go to Harry Killoran who had an outstanding spell finishing with 2 for 67 off 17 overs.
The 3rds won at Irby whilst the 4ths 220 wasn't enough to beat Irby despite 53 from John Legry and 44 from Ian Metcalf.
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Table toppers take the honours
 Chester Boughton Hall 183 all out (54.3 overs, Neston 184-7 (53.1 overs). Neston won by 3 wickets Scorecard
Despite being in the driving seat for much of the game, Chester let slip their advantage as they went down to league leaders Neston at Filkins Lane.
A late paternity call for Steve Ogilby meant a last minute call up for 12 year old Harry Killolran to the side, the youngest player to appear for the 1st XI since an 11 year old Eddie Roberts back in the last century.
Winning the toss and batting first, Chester were in early trouble as Warren Goodwin fell to old adversary Chris Finergan with just 6 on the board. Worse was to follow as Jim Gillson was caught behind for 5 to leave the home side reeling at 12-2.
Eddie Roberts, back in a familiar role at the top of the order and Ollie Law then set about rebuilding the innings before a mix-up saw Roberts go for 12 with the score on 35. Law and Maroof Khan - playing his last league game for Chester before departing for a job in Hong Kong - then combined well to add 62 for the fourth wioket before Law went lbw for 39. Maroof maanged 37, Ajit Khan 28 but when the tail failed to wag, Chester were struggling at 153-9 on a turning track. Enter old and new: Alex Kegg shepherded the unfazed Harry Killoran at the other end as they eeked out a vital 30 for the last wicket, Kegg making 28 and Killoran 6 not out before receiving a hero's reception in the pavilion at tea. Pick of the Neston bowlers was Cheshire's James Hawley with 3-58 and Jordan Free with 3-20.
Chester's spin attack was likely to have a big say in the Neston reply but when Ranjan opened the bowling, the stylish Jack Smith made his intentions clear from the off and seam soon returned. The bowling of Khan and reintroduction of Ranjan from the other end soon began to bite however and when Smith went for 37, Neston were struggling at 64-5 and Chester were moving towards their first victory in seven.
But this was a day for the youngsters and nobody had reckoned on 15 year old Luke Camden taking the game by the scruff of the neck as almost single-handedly, he turned things round. Chester only managed two further wickets and although Khan finished with 3-48 and Ranjan 3-54, his mature innings of 55 not out saw the table toppers home by 3 wickets.
Andy Pembroke's 2nd XI slipped up in the corresponding fixture at Neston, John Thistlewood's 3rds went down in a decent game with Brooklands and Jeremy Jordan's 'Home Guard' 4ths (featuring one or two names from the past) grabbed a draw at Oxton.
On Sunday, Chester cruised into the 4th round of the Cheshire Cup with a fine win over Bramhall. Chester made 241-6 (Steve Ogilby 76, Ollie Law 59, Maroof Khan 35), Bramhall 183-9 (Kieron O’Connor 61, Nick Cantello 38, Ajit Ranjan 3-15).
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Steve gets another great delivery
 Congratulations to Steve Ogilby who became a proud father for the second time on Thursday.
Danielle gave birth to Maisie, weighing in at 7Ibs, a sister for Freddie.
Mum and Maisie both doing well, the Irishman even more chipy than usual!
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Double trouble!
 At last the answer to the ultimate question.
Which Treen sister is which?
That's Steve on the left and Mike on the right. Or is that Mike on the left and Steve on the right.
Presumably even worse when you're trying to captain them.
Scarey. Let us know. Answers by email to cbhcc.co.uk
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1sts slip to a draw when in control whilst Bob Evans hits 218 for the 2's
 Whilst Jim Gillson's side lurched to a draw with Alderley Edge from a winning position, the big story of the weekend was Bob Evans' fine 218 for the 2nds at Alderley. Smashing the ball to all quarters of the ground (and adjacent tennis courts), Evans dealt almost exclusively in boundaries.
Andy Pembroke's men closed on 300-3 declared and with Grant Goodwin picking up 5 wickets and Dave Fisher and Jay Alfridi, 2 each. Chester got home by 40 runs with the home side mustering 260.
Success too for the 3rds who beat Timperley, young Harry Killoran taking 6 wickets.
Alderley Edge 231 all out (53 overs), Chester Boughton Hall 226-9. Match drawn Scorecard
Lacking the ruthless streak that can turn draws in to wins, Chester surrendered meekly in a game they looked destined to win. Having dismissed Alderley for a below par 231, the home side were confident of chasing the runs down but a number of basic errors saw them capitulate and end up settling for a draw.
Things started well for the home side with Trevor Fabien taking the early wickets of Alan Day and Jason Whittaker to reduce Alderley to 22-2. It got better when the prolific Mark Currie - usually a thorn in Chester's side - went for 45. From then onwards wickets fell regularly, left armer Ajit Ranjan being Chester's main turn as he took 6-75 from 15 overs. Fabien finished with 3-68 and top scorer was Johnny Usher who remained unbeaten on 58.
Chester's reply couldn't have got off to a worse start as first Whittaker clean bowled Warren Goodwin for just 2 and Ranjan then went to the very next delivery. Ollie Law and Steve Ogilby then settled down to repair the early damage, striking some fine shots. Together the two added some semblance of order as they put on 78 for the third wicket before Law became over ambitious and top-edged one to cover for 42.
Two further solid partnerships then developed with first Ogilby and Maroof Khan adding 33 before Ogilby ran himself out for the second week running, then Khan and Gillson added 60. Chester were slipping behind the clock slightly but with Khan in control, were homing in on their first win in 6. When Gillson was stumped for 20, toppling over at the crease to much amusement from the opposition and several of his own side, victory was still well within sight. Panic and apprehension then set in forcing Khan to take on spinner Mark Warnes (5-62) once too often and be stumped for 68. Jack Williams' 20 offered some hope for Chester as the tail became under pressure but when the ninth wicket fell in the last over with Chester still 11 runs short, Eddie Roberts was forced as earn a draw. A disappointing return from a game Chester should have won.
On Friday night a young Chester side slipped out of the Liverpool Echo KO Trophy at Bootle. The hosts posted 141-9 from their 20 overs (Ranjan 5-22) and Chester managing 113-6 in reply (Robinson 21*, Williams 20*, Law 20).
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Runfest stalemate sees Warren hit 153
 Chester Boughton Hall 333-3 dec (55 overs), Nantwich 226-6 (55 overs). Match drawn
Scorecard
Chester Boughton Hall's Warren Goodwin struck a superb 153 for Chester as they took on local rivals Nantwich at Whitehouse Lane. Indian Ajit Ranjan hit 77 and Ollie Law 54 not out but the visitors couldn't force their first victory for five games.
Winning the toss and batting first, Chester were pegged back initially by an accurate opening spell from Jimmy Warrington and Barrington Brown, eeking out 31 runs from the first 13 overs before Steve Ogilby drove one to the covers and was run out from a direct hit by Ray Doyle. Ajit Ranjan then joined Goodwin at the crease and a series of excellent pulls and drives saw him and Goodwin add 183 for the second wicket. With the young overseas recruit making his highest score so far and growing in confidence, Goodwin went into overdrive. His innings was a replica of the one he'd played six days earlier for Cheshire as he despatched the ball to all parts of the ground (and out of it). A tired Ranjan was finally caught behind at 214 and Ollie Law then entered to continue the rout taking on his mate and sparring partner Ashley Shaw. When Goodwin finally departed to a boundary catch - hitting 5 sixes and 22 fours in total - Law continued, seeing the innings through to a mammoth 333-3 and smashing 54 from 29 balls.
Perhaps the Chester declaration should have been earlier but with Lou Vincent in the opposition's side, anything could happen. Vincent was first to go however with the score on 42, bowled by Ranjan and then Alex Kegg grabbed a second to make it 51-2. 85-4 signalled survival as Nantwich's aim and despite an array of 'friendly' bowling to entice shots, Nantwich blocked out comfortably to finish on 226-6, Ashley Shaw unbeaten on 55. Ranjan finished with 3-55, Kegg 2-55 and there was a wicket for young debutant Ollie Thompson.
The 2nd XI also drew with Nantwich, the 3rds drew at Warrington (including 124 from Tommy Evans and 91 from John Legry and the 4ths went down to Warrington).
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Going with the youth
 With three under 19s in last week's 1st XI and another set to play against Urmston, Chester skipper Jim Gillson sees the value of blooding youth.
'If they're good enough, they're play,' says Gillson. 'So far this season we've seen 17 year old Jack Williams cement his place in the side as a legspinner, Ollie Law push up the batting order to number 4 and last week we saw a glimpse of what 17 year old Andy Leech can do with the ball.'
'On top of that we of course have 19 year old Chris Connolly available to us in between Lancashire commitments and 16 year old Mike Robinson has also played in the side this year'.
Gillson is also set to blood rookie wicket-keeper Glen Coppack against Urmston. 'Young Glen had some good performances with the gloves last year for us and with Steve (Ogilby) temporarily unable to keep due to a knee injury, this is Glen's chance'.
Leech and Coppack are products of the King's School, Chester as is another emerging talent, Ollie Thompson. All three have school cricket commitments during the first half of the season but will be more available later.
'I'm really pleased with the progress of our juniors', Gillson explains. 'As well as those progressing at the top of our pyramid there are also others coming on nicely such as Mike Jones and Harry Killoran'.
Chester go forward looking to blend youth with experience and you can expect more of the same as the season progresses.
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CBHCC Kit 2010
 CBH has 2 preferred kit suppliers for 2010.
As in previous years all 'standard' playing gear i.e. whites,shirts, jerseys, caps, bats, pads, guards etc should be purchased from Brian Gresty at Whitchurch Sports (Tel / Fax 01948 665733).
Website email: enquiries@whitchurch-sports.co.uk
In additon there is a new range of training equipment for 2010 that may be bought on line via JS Sports. This includes tracksuits, rain jackets, beanies etc.
Website email sales@jssports.net
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Chester Boughton Hall Membership 2010 - Fees Now Due
 Membership fees for 2010 have once again been held at previous levels.
Please help Club funds by paying your fees at the earliest opportunity. This is an important part of the Club's annual income.
You can pay at the Club or complete and forward the attached form to the Membership Secretary, Steve Coppack.
Existing members have been sent a renewal form together with a letter from the Chairman. 2010 Membership Form
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Sponsorship 2010
 There are a number of sponsorship opportunities available at Chester Boughton Hall in 2010 including ground banners and hospitality.
In addition, match ball sponsorship is available for all 1st and 2nd XI home games in 2010 at £40 per match.
Please download the attached form and return it to the Club together with your cheque or alternatively, contact Jim on 07900 975826.
Match Ball Sponsorship
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All you need to know about Junior Cricket at CBH 2010
 Registration night is on Friday April 16th between 6 and 7.00pm.
Please note there will be no coaching on this day. First coaching nights are Monday 19th April and Friday 23rd April. All welcome.
Dates and Registration 2010 Coaches and Teams 2010 Junior Fixtures 2010 Junior Registration Form
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Mean Maroof Checks In...
 Maroof Khan is back for 2010 and relishing the challenge ahead.
The popular all-rounder made a number of impressive appearances for Chester last season and will once again be teaming up with his friend, Jim Gillson.
Looking impressive at nets, Maroof has spent much of the Winter in the gym and is excited about rejoining the side for the forthcoming season.
Marroof's cricketing experience and all round skills are likely to be invaluable over the coming months.
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And the Irish Rover Returns...
 It's a big welcome back to Steve Ogilby after a year away at Nantwich.
'Seamus' too is relishing the season ahead as the league's leading wicketkeeper dons the gloves again for Chester.
With wife Danielle expecting their second child in the summer too, it promises to be a busy season for the Irishman.
And although he doesn't know it yet, there are already raised expectations that Seamus will once again introduce the art of toenail painting back to Boughton Hall (you might need to ask him to explain that...).
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Chester Boughton Hall Junior Development Squad
 CBH have launched a Junior Development Squad for 2010.
With an array of young talent at Chester, it is important to invest in the Club's future. The squad has been put together with two key oblectives:
- to offer an intense level of specialist coaching to select individuals, enabling them to spend time with established senior players
- to better understand the workings of a leading cricket club, understand the responsibilities involved in managing cricket at club level and the expectations and inputs required from players
There will be 10 weeks of Monday night coaching sessons to include, batting, fast and spin bowling, fielding, wicket keeping and strategy - a key area in understanding a game plan.
Amongst the senior personnel involved in the programme will be opening bat Warren Goodwin, old friend and left arm spinner, Robin Fisher and wicket-keeper Stephen Ogilby.
The squad was officially launched at a meeting at the Clubhouse and included presentations from Chairman Jim Law, Junior Chairman Dave Killoran, 1st XI skipper, Jim Gillson and Warren Goodwin.
Whilst an initial group of 16 boys and girls have been selected, it is anticipated the squad will progress once training starts and acts as an incentive for all aspiring young cricketers at the Club.
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Coppack New Membership Secretary
 Steve Coppack, referee, cricketer (?!), entrepreneur and all-round good egg takes on the role of Membership Secretary for CBH in 2010.
Succeeding Chris King, Steve will be approaching members shortly for their 2010 subscriptions.
A reminder that 2010 rates are the same levels for the third year running as follows. Please help the Club in paying promptly.
Senior Playing Members £75.00
Vice-Presidents £25.00
Social Member £15.00
Partner of existing member £10.00
Ladies Eleven £30.00
Junior Playing Members at Primary School £25.00, at Secondary School / University £30
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Chester Kids In!
 Great progress from some of the Chester Boughton Hall youngsters during the Winter months.
Chris Connolly (right)who joined the Club in 2009 continues as the only Cheshire based player in Lancashire Academy's 2010 Squad.
Meantime Jack Williams continues to impress as he has been selected as one of six players in the county to take part in a programme based on ECB Talent Testing Sessions. The youngsters will work with the Cheshire Board and Lancashire Academy coaches, giving them a chance to integrate with Lancashire’s emerging players.
A further 10 players have been selected to form a Junior Academy run on similar lines and include our very own Harry Killoran.
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Shillong Discount
 Shillong Indian Restaurant, based in Boughton have offered employees and members of CBH an exclusive 25% discount on a total dining bill (Monday to Thursday) and 15% (Friday, Saturday and Bank Holidays).
The restaurant is located at 111 Boughton (on the old site of Locus)
To qualify for your discount you must book in advance and produce your membership card / employee details. The offer starts from January 17 2010.
Telephone 01244 348557 / 324001
Shillong Website
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2008 - 2009 Archive Features
 Archive website features from 2008 and 2009.
Click Here
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Chester Boughton Hall Cricket Club Tie Now Available @ £15!
 New, a personalised Chester Boughton Hall Cricket Club tie.
Sporting the famous club colours of maroon, blue and gold, this tie is now available for just £15.
To get your tie, see Jim at the Club, call 07900 975826 or email james.w.law@btinternet.com
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Ground and Individual Match Sponsorship for 2010
 Help us manage the spiralling costs of playing cricket at Chester Boughton Hall by supporting the Club's sponsorship initiatives.
Once again advertising boards are available around the ground and can be individually tailored to meet your needs.
And we're always interested to consider new opportunities too so please contact us with your thoughts.
In 2010 you can once again sponsor individual 1st and 2nd XI matches too for just £40.
Click here for more details
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CBH Play-Cricket Site
To view Chester Boughton Hall's ECB Play-Cricket site Click Here
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Jocelyn Galsworthy’s Painting of Chester Boughton Hall Cricket Club
This is your opportunity to own a limited edition print of Chester Boughton Hall Cricket Club, expertly painted by leading cricket artist, Jocelyn Galsworthy.
Specially commissioned, the painting depicts CBHCC from the scoreboard side of the ground capturing a live game.
Prints cost £40 with a percentage of each sale going to Club funds.
To order your copy, please call Jim Law on 07900 975826 or e-mail james.w.law@btinternet.com
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Directions to Chester Boughton Hall
At interchange of A51 / A55: follow Chester sign, pass through 4 sets of trafffic lights then, after passing over canal bridge, tur n sharp left into Filkins Lane opposite the Bridge Inn. Boughton Hall Avenue is 100 yards on left.
From M56: turn onto M53 for Chester which becomes A55. Turn right at A51 interchange as above.
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The Spirit of Chester Boughton Hall Cricket Club
 Established over 100 years ago, Chester Boughton Hall Cricket Club has a tradition built upon strong principles established by its members.
The Club's passion and purpose have ensured that it has rightly become a Focus Club within the region providing unrivalled facilities for players, members and spectators young and old. The aim is to ensure that it will continue to thrive and progress for years to come so that future generations may continue to enjoy what we enjoy today.
It is therefore important for all to abide by and embrace, The Spirit of Chester Boughton Hall Cricket Club
Click Here
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 Chester Boughton Hall Cricket Club have been Clubmark accredited since 2005.Clubmark
CBH Clubmark Charter
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