There are few things more frustrating in cricket than doing all the hard work only for the weather to step in and claim the headlines. Unfortunately, that was the story for Southgate 2nd XI on Saturday as rain denied what looked a very likely victory against Middlesex Titans Sports & Social Club.
After winning the toss, skipper Sameer Faruqi had little hesitation in asking the Titans to bat first under gloomy skies at The Walker Ground. What followed was one of Southgate's most disciplined bowling performances of the season.
David Woffinden produced a masterclass in accuracy and patience. On a pitch offering assistance to those willing to bowl the right areas, Woffinden was relentless, finishing with remarkable figures of 5-11 from nine overs, including four maidens. Every time the Titans threatened to build a partnership, Woffinden returned to remove another batter and keep Southgate firmly on top.
Adam Collins provided excellent support at the other end, claiming 2-25 from his nine overs. George Bloyce contributed an important wicket while conceding just 24 runs from his six overs, and Liam Collett produced an economical three-over spell, conceding just three runs and bowling two maidens.
The Titans never recovered from their early struggles. Reduced to 46-5, they relied heavily on Rajasith Jajithurai, whose entertaining 43 was the only innings of real substance. Dev Patel battled gamely for an unbeaten 18, but Southgate's bowlers maintained control throughout. A run out added to the misery as wickets continued to tumble at regular intervals.
Eventually the innings closed on 134 all out in 37.3 overs, a total that felt some way below par and one Southgate would have backed themselves to chase comfortably.
With rain clouds gathering, Southgate's openers Max Joseph and Mustapha Mirza wasted no time in getting started. Both found the boundary in an eventful opening over as Southgate raced to 12 without loss.
Sadly, that would be the final action of the afternoon.
The rain arrived before the second over could begin and, despite periods of optimism from players and spectators alike, conditions never improved sufficiently for play to resume. The umpires eventually called time on proceedings, leaving Southgate to settle for three abandonment points.
While the weather prevented the result the home side looked destined to secure, there were plenty of positives to take from the day. Woffinden's outstanding five-wicket haul was the standout performance, backed by a disciplined effort from the entire bowling unit and an excellent display in the field.
Stefaan Fernando