Kuru the key to Locks openers. Locksbottom 2nd XI V Catford & Cyphers 3rd XI at Tugmutton Common (19.04.03) Catford & Cyphers won by 10 wickets Much has been written over the years about cricket grounds; the most picturesque, the best tea etc. However on Saturday a new category was created. The coldest cricket ground, with this particular award being taken by Tugmutton Common, home of Locks Bottom CC. Not one of the more experienced members of the thirds could recall such a cold day and venue combination for a days cricket! The thirds boasted a strong line-up for this their opening fixture of the season, and having won the toss opted to bowl on a typically green April wicket. With Andy Page bowling with his usual miserly style and Kuru finding some pace and bounce Locks Bottom were soon in trouble. Kuru struck in his second over and from then on was unplayable, leaving Locks Bottom in considerable difficulty. It was a devastating spell from the opener who finished with four wickets without conceding a single run! At the other end Andy Page continued to probe, after having a strong LBW shout turned down (the ball could only had been judged to have been going under the stumps!) he finally picked up the reward for some good bowling with his first wicket of the year. With the home side reeling stand in skipper Laurie Wray changed the bowling around, with Preba replacing Kuru. The home side never recovered and a double bowling change, with the Anthony's Galvin and Benedict coming on ended the match as a contest. The final five wickets were quickly mopped up as Locks Bottom slumped to 23 all out. It was a comprehensive performance in the field by the thirds, spearheaded by Kuru whose figures of 4-4-0-4 will take some beating. Anthony Galvin also picked up four wickets with Anthony Benedict and Andy Page grabbing a wicket a piece. The sides turned straight round, with James Golbey and Para opening. Para was in belligerent mood, smashing anything short to the boundary. The total was quickly reached allowing the players to scurry to the relative warmth of the pavilion for tea. All in all it was a dominant performance by the thirds, however there is no doubt that stronger tests will await when the South Thames League begins in a few weeks time. Team: Benedict, Coles, Galvin, Golbey J, Kuru, Page, Para, Preba, Rajavan (wk), Sharp, Wray (capt) BACK