Mark Ramprakash steps out for practice

Published: 16th June, 2011
CRICKET with STEVE BARNETT

Middlesex County League
Premier Division
Hampstead 176 ao | Stanmore 179-2

ENGLAND star Mark Ramprakash quashed any hopes Hampstead had of picking up a home victory on Saturday when he surprisingly stepped out for Stanmore at Lymington Road. 

The right-handed batsman, who scored 113 first class centuries for England, Middlesex and his current side Surrey, called his old club on Monday to offer his services in order to gain some form before his return to the County Championship following a knee injury. 

Ramprakash did not disappoint, smashing his way to an unbeaten 60 at a run a ball as he saw his team to victory by eight wickets as Stanmore sailed to 179-2 within 42 overs. 

Having been put into bat Hampstead set a below-par score of 176 all out. 

Opener Rob Tidey top-scored for the home side as he hit 60 off 122 balls, including 10 fours. 

Ed Jones offered some much needed stability in the middle order as he scored 31 off 64 balls, including three fours and a six. But when he carelessly lost his wicket on the stroke of lunch Hampstead’s chances of posting a testing score went with him. 

North Middlesex’s run chase falls just short

NORTH Middlesex were unlucky not to record their first win of the season in Division Two as they were held to a draw at Shepherds Bush. 

Tom Stone scored 71 not out as the home side reached 229-8 before declaring after 53 overs. 

In reply Adam Evans Holmes scored 47 before retiring hurt while Alex Hill and Jaron Semper scored 50 and 38 runs respectively. 

Their combined efforts proved just short of the mark as the Midd ended on 187-6 off 47 overs to pick up just a point because of their slower run rate.