Father-and-son openers help Grimston Cricket Club to title

Sunday’s victory over Snettisham in the Mid Norfolk Sunday League was particularly special for two members of Grimston Cricket Club.

The club’s father-and-son opening partnership of Mark Tilbrook and chairman Tim Tilbrook shared an opening stand of 230 in Peter Parfitt Division Two as Grimston claimed the title in style.

Grimston amassed a huge total of 345 for 4 in their 40 overs before dismissing a plucky Snettisham side, who showed great spirit throughout the defeat, for just 58.

Tim Tilbrook, who was out first for 55, said: “It has been a great season for the club and I am delighted we have been promoted.

“All of the players have contributed over the season and I was just lucky enough to be there today.”

Mark, the younger Tilbrook, finished on 195 after eventually being bowled.

Mark added: “Hats off to Snettisham who never gave up despite us putting in a great performance.

“Our club is really on the up with some very good young players coming through and a good group of mature guys giving stability.”

Meanwhile, in the season that marks the end of the Carter Cup and the NACO Cup, there are still competitions that are flourishing – the Mid-Norfolk Sunday Cricket League’s Challenge Cup and the Broke Cup (plate competition).

Bank Holiday Monday will see the culmination of this year’s showpieces.

The Challenge Cup final will be between a strong Swaffham side and an equally-formidable Ashmanhaugh & Barton Wanderers outfit which promises to be a real clash of the titans.

The final will be played at Sprowston at their Barkers Lane ground and will start at 1pm. It is a 40-overs-per-side competition and no bowler is allowed to bowl more than eight overs.

On Sprowston’s second pitch, will be the Broke Cup Final which again promises to be very tempting between Martham and Snettisham. The start time is also 1pm.

League chairman, Colin King, reflecting upon the a potentially enthralling afternoon, said: “Swaffham is a side that bats in depth and is perfectly capable of running away with the match.

“However, they are faced with Ashmanhaugh who are equally tough. I know I’m going to be richly entertained by both of these teams.”

King added: “The Broke Cup could also be a great experience. Snettisham are no mugs but the last time I watched Martham, in a final last year, they hit no less than 16 sixes.

“Snettisham will need to suppress this Martham exuberance if they are to allow their class to prevail.”