The game of cricket is a funny one. When different formats of the game mess with the mind. The Toft 4ths, who excel in the 40 over format, produced yet another despicable batting performance in the shorter 20\20 game against a strong High Legh side on Wednesday night.

Skipper Andrew Jackson’s side has had mixed success under his tutelage. Impressive 40 over wins marred by inexplicable batting collapses in evening shorter games, despite having a fine bowling attack at his disposal, and a group of fielders willing to put their bodies on the line for the cause.

An experienced High Legh side arrived at Booths Hall in confident mood following defeating Jackson’s charges earlier in the season. They batted first and batted nicely, with their sprightly opener reaching the 25 retirement quickly.

But Jackson is proud of his bowlers, with two stellar spinners available in the shape of Gibbon & Bongard and seam options Donald & McNamara, backed up by the enthusiastic flowing locks of James McKenna. All bowled thriftily, the spin options in particular, and collected wickets as the visitors scored 113-4 off their 20 overs. One particular highlight being a sensational catch out the sun from new recruit, Lowit Gowdra. Tom Carter, deputising behind the stumps, also did an admirable job despite being struck in the chest from a feisty Gibbon delivery. 113 is good, but gettable is the word.

During the break, Jackson mused that Freedom Day might result in his batsman throwing off the shackles and scoring big runs. But he was sorely mistaken as things started in a terrible manner. Keen to lead by example, Jackson did the opposite opening up and was out trapped LBW in the first over for just a single. No masks anymore, but there was no masking the vulnerability of the Toft batting line up, as Alex Davies appeared to self isolate in the middle without a partner to ping it about with.

Davies made a decent 14, before being bowled by a ball that swung massively. Hard to believe in baking sun, but his mind was fried and frazzled in the July sunshine. Wickets continued to tumble at an alarming rate, with the loss of Gowdra & Donald cheaply, and Chris Bongard being given out LBW in bizarre circumstances. Struck on the pad halfway down the track, Bongard assumed the umpire was calling for drinks, but instead it was his trigger to head to the bar himself in a disconsolate manner.

Tom Carter was able to hit one or two lusty blows before he succumbed for 15, and the lower order offered little resistance as the Toft were bundled out for just 67.

After the game, Jackson treated the opposition to two large jugs of IPA and also a tale of their fortunes across both formats. It left High Legh thirsty for a 40 over affair next season. When Toft will fancy getting the upper hand…….