After a washout last weekend, Barrow finally got onto the field of play against a talented Bristol Lions side. Bowling first the Barrow bowlers struggled for accuracy and the fielders did not support them with several boundaries which shouldn’t have been and some dropped catches too.
Mark Fisher bowls the first ball of the 2023 season
Sam Mitchell took the first wicket of the season, courtesy of a one-handed catch by keeper Bernie Forge. As the Lions raced away to a total of 266 for 5 in only 30 overs, taking full advantage of the short boundary on one side, there were consolation wickets for Mark Fisher, Frank Forge, and a couple for Ed Holdaway.
Wicket keeper Bernie Forge with Ed Holdaway at gully were Barrow’s top scorers
In reply Barrow lost Kieran Owen without scoring, before Bernie Forge and Guy Fisher put on a fifty partnership. After Guy fell for 10, Phil Milton (18) hit some lusty blows but the score was well out of reach. Bernie retired having made 38 and Ed Holdaway then connected with a few to finish 33 not out. Barrow finished well short of their target.
As play finished the heavens opened and the Sunday game v Leema was cancelled. With more bad weather forecast who knows when the players will get a chance for more practice?