The Rollers concluded their pre-season preparations for the 2013/14 campaign with a two-wicket defeat to the Melkbos Cricket Club in a T20 fixture on Sunday afternoon.
Following the 17-run loss in the first match back at the old Koeberg Cricket Club two weeks ago, we went into the game with a point to prove. But on a very windy day and on a landmine pitch, we once again came unstuck.
Captain Neville Cooper won the toss and elected to bat, but just four balls in and Bernie Nel was back in the shed without scoring. Neville, Hannes Engelbrecht and Ryan Cooper soon followed without a run to their name, with Haas’ dismissal particularly amusing – bouncing halfway down the pitch, and for a second time on the pop-in crease!
Tim Sant, Jacques Laubscher and Neil Parish added some respectability as we managed to claw our way to 61/9 in the 20 overs.
But any doubts we had about our own batting performance was soon dispelled as Cornell Keulder and Ryan Cooper reduced the hosts to 20/5 as the pitch continued to play tricks.
Neil chipped in with three more wickets, but ultimately it was not enough runs on the board as Nicky Rheeder hit the winnings runs with three overs remaining.
There was nothing wrong with the bar though as the Rollers did what they do best – be the last ones to leave.
However, the call was made that the Melkbos wicket would not be ready this year, but we are looking at hosting some FCA teams in 2014 once the new pitch has been laid.
The season proper starts on Sunday with a clash against old rivals Edgemead.