The first ever Hambledon Vets side had an enjoyable game on Sunday against a competitive Findon Vets team. Findon batted first and made 202-3 off 40 overs with Mike de Mellow the stand out bowler with 2-22 off his allotted 8 overs, Alistair Gibson picking up the other wicket. 69 year old Topsy Turner belied his years with five tight overs for 10 runs and many fine stops at short mid wicket, whilst Chairman David Mills was hampered by a pulled hamstring whilst valiantly manning the deep mid wicket boundary.
In reply Martyn Shinn 38 got the Dons off to a great start and was assisted by Mark Wingham who was dismissed by the catch of the day before he could unveil his famous sweep shot. A stylish knock of 37 from 1989 skipper Mike Donaldson kept the Dons in the hunt and Steve Toogood also demonstrated that his Level 2 qualification had not gone to waste with a couple of classic cover drives. Despite a breezy undefeated 42 by Phil Tusler the Dons fell short by 26 runs
Back Row: Mark Wingham, Steve Toogood, Topsy Turner, Martyn Shinn, Mike de Mellow, Mark Le Clercq, David Mills.
Front Row: Alistair Gibson, Mike Donaldson, Chris de Mellow, Phil Tusler.