Glorious day for Mallorca

The first game of the Balearic Championships was played in glorious sunny conditions before a large and enthusiastic crowd yesterday. The MCC won the toss and elected to bat. Openers Hijaz Yaseen and “Reckless” Eric George put on 71 for the first wicket before Yaseen was bowled by Patel for 37. Paul Heaton was out LBW for nought, a somewhat dubious decision, and when Eric George was run out for 28, the MCC were 84 for 3. After the drinks break Billy Morris and James Bodsworth batted splendidly to stabilize the home side. Morris was unluckily run out on 47, sharing a stand of 142 with Bodsworth and putting MCC into a strong position. Mohammed Shafeek hit a brisk 19, and James Bodsworth was unbeaten just 2 short of his century, a brilliant innings that helped the MCC to a formidable 256 for 4. Patel was Ibiza's best bowler, returning figures of 1 for 25 in 8 overs. Ibiza got off to the worst possible start when they lost openers Steve Clarke, and Mike Charlton with just 12 on the board. Mark Baldrick and M. Patel, 35 and 32 respectively, batted well, but wickets fell steadily, and Ibiza CC were well short of their target, despite a valiant effort from Andy McDowell, and thanks to some excellent bowling from Mallorca “veteran” Mal Leggett. The championships continue today when Menorca and Ibiza meet (12pm, free entry).