BROOKLANDS first XI crumbled to a disappointing 95-run defeat at Mobberley.

An early finish initially looked on the cards as Alex Hart (5-76) reduced the hosts to 11-3, then 33-4 on a seaming wicket. But the visitors were unable to dislodge Australian Charlie Nield, who smashed 149, including 16 fours and eight sixes, to carry his team to 226-9 from their 50 overs.

With short boundaries and a fast outfield, Brooklands remained confident, but a succession of rash shots put them in trouble at 42-4.

A counter-attack from Australian Emmanuel Parmakellis (75) gave the visitors hope, and with 120 required from 20 overs, the game looked in the balance.

But in fading light, batting became all-but impossible: Brooklands lost their last 4 wickets for 10 runs to fall to an embarrassing 95-run defeat in a game they would have been hoping to win.

Meanwhile, the second XI performed poorly at home in a heavy 87 run defeat inflicted by local rivals Timperley, with 3 wickets for Tom Mitchell and 53 for Richard Palmer the only positives. The third XI restored some pride for the club in beating Chester 4th XI by 6 wickets, successfully chasing 210 with contributions from all the players in a young side.

In week 3, the first XI host struggling Northwich who have lost both of their opening games. The second XI travel to a Grappenhall side who have won both of theirs, and the third XI also travel to Chester to face a strong third XI side. All games start at 1pm. The fourth XI, under new captaincy in the form of 16 year old Dave Cunliffe, host a derby on Sunday 3rd May against Ashton-on-Mersey.

The club’s 50% discount for new adult members remains in place for the 2015 season: for more information please contact Dave Garnett on david.garnett2@btinternet.com or check out the website at http://cricket.brooklandssportsclub.co.uk.