By Fi Isaacs: On Saturday 16 May, the 2XI against Winscombe marked another milestone: a father-and-son partnership. Bear Flat CC has seen father-and-son pairings before, but never one that produced a debut 50 partnership. Jack and Gareth Randle, originally from South Africa, were brought together after Jack was introduced to the club by Director of Cricket Matt Tomes-Smith. Gareth had always hoped to play alongside his son, and that ambition became reality last Saturday. When a late withdrawal opened a place in the side, Gareth stepped in and the pair made club history.
Although the 2XI lost to Winscombe by four wickets, there were strong individual performances from Jack Randle, who scored 48, Damien Cull, who made 36 not out and took 2 for 18, and Richard Bahadoor, who finished with 2 for 29.
The 1XI enjoyed more success against Purnell CC, winning by seven wickets. Matt Strange recorded his highest score for the Bears with 82 not out, while James Ebdon added 39. The bowling effort was led by Aryan Rathi with 3 for 44, supported by Jon Heywood with 2 for 3 and Paul Wood with 2 for 22.
Bat Bear Flat 1XI v Bear Flat 2XI – Somerset Knockout Cup – Minor
In a memorable moment for the club, The Bears’ 1st XI and 2nd XI faced one another in the Somerset Knockout Cup Minor competition at the picturesque Prior Park College.
The 1st XI won the toss and chose to bat, posting an impressive 154 for 4 from their 20 overs. Captain Harry Lewis led from the front with his first cup half-century for the club, while wicketkeeper Rob Wilson provided excellent support with 53. Matt Strange also made a valuable contribution with 24 as the 1st XI built a strong total.
The 2nd XI began their reply positively, with Mark Gunning top-scoring with 29. Newcomer Jack Randle added 17 and Sam Homan chipped in with 10, briefly raising hopes of a thrilling finish. However, the 1st XI’s bowling attack proved decisive. Matt Tomes-Smith returned figures of 2 for 1 from a single over, Harry Lewis claimed 2 for 9 from two overs, and Jon Heywood took 2 for 24 from four, while three run-outs further tilted the contest in the 1st XI’s favour.
The match was played throughout in an excellent spirit and provided a notable occasion for everyone involved. Victory sends the 1st XI into round three, where they now await news of their next opponents.
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