Shropshire's progress checked as Wales dig in
Shropshire had plenty to do going into the second day of their Minor Counties Championship Western Division clash against Wales.
Steve Leach’s side did not bat yesterday at Pontarddulais Cricket Club, because of a late start caused by rain, as Wales ended their first innings on 315-9.
“There was a lot of rain around so we started a few hours late at 2pm, it is one of those things,” said director of coaching Karl Krikken.
Shropshire bowlers Jack McIver and Alex Wyatt, who both play for Shifnal in the Birmingham League, had a good day with the ball as they claimed four and three wickets respectively. Wales, who finished bottom of the division last season, had Steffan Roberts (103) and Darren Thomas (51) come up with runs at important times after being 229-7 and Krikken admitted Shropshire lost their way a little bit towards the end of the innings.
Roberts came in at No.3 while Thomas was in at nine, hitting six boundaries along the way.
“Thomas is an ex-pro with plenty of experience, and he got hold of us a little bit and batted nicely,” said Krikken.
“The wicket was fairly benign so it should be a good one to bat on, as long as the rain holds off over the next couple of days.
“Jack and Alex bowled well, as did everyone, really.
“We did well to restrict them for good periods of the 90 overs and we bowled quite nicely, although we lost our way slightly towards the end .
“Credit to Wales though, they batted well and Roberts looks a very good player.”
