When Middlesex kicked off their Rothesay County Championship clash against Lancashire on a wonderfully sunny and warm Friday morning, another match was already underway at the Lord's Indoor Cricket Centre.
Two disability sides - the Elfrida Society representing Middlesex - and a Hertfordshire invitational team, were battling it out in an indoor match, which had been organised by MITC’s Inclusive Cricket Partnership Manager, Daisy Meadowcroft. For many of the players, this was their first-ever competitive game of cricket.
Batting first, Middlesex got off to a fast start, with the opening pair putting on 50 despite some fine bowling. This provided the platform for a good batting display, as strong running between the wickets was combined with powerful boundaries to score 145/4. Hertfordshire's reply started well, but thanks to committed fielding by Middlesex, the pressure kept building and the home side eventually won by 50 runs.
Although both teams played to win, this match was always played in a friendly spirit – when a great catch was taken by a Hertfordshire fielder, the two Middlesex batters were among the first to congratulate the opposition player. This good-natured attitude continued at the handshakes after the final ball had been bowled, with messages of respect being exchanged by both sets of players. Everyone then headed to the main ground to enjoy the other county match taking place, where they were met for photos and a chat by Angus Fraser as well as members of the BBC's Tailenders podcast.
The paying public might not have known about this contest, but for these players, the chance to showcase their well-honed skills at the Home of Cricket will live long in the memory.
