AK anchors the chase as LNZ open the season with a win at Wimbledon

On a bright, sun-splashed afternoon in London, London New Zealand Cricket Club (“LNZ”) assembled 12 mostly ‘mature men’ to take on Wimbledon Cricket Club (“Wimbledon”). It is always a privilege to play at Wimbledon’s home ground, directly across the road from Centre Court—something not lost on those fortunate enough to feature in this annual fixture. Conditions could not have been more inviting for cricket in April: a fair wicket, a quick outfield for this time of year, and a light breeze drifting across the ground.

To the amazement of captain Fulton, a number of players were early—arriving comfortably ahead of the designated 12:30 “do not be late” deadline. Timothy and Michael McClean (aka the twins) were in the nets alongside Leith and Campbell Cowie (the Cowie brothers), while Adam Khanbhai was spotted pacing the boundary following his Cambridge University dinner the night before. Samuel Martin arrived, albeit without his customary three jerseys—currently landlocked in his soon-to-be-constructed loft. Fortunately, Ryan Allan stepped in with a spare. The toss was held, heads was called, and the cries of “field first” won the day.

Wimbledon’s Innings

From the outset, the opening bowlers hit disciplined lines and asked questions of the Wimbledon batters. Shaun Wilkie and Ryan Allan ensured there was no flying start, much to the relief of those watching on. Wilkie struck early, while Allan held things tight at the other end.

Vance Thompson and Sam Martin entered the attack next, both bringing their usual blend of control and competitive edge. Each claimed an early wicket, with Martin removing the key Wimbledon opener just as he was beginning to look dangerous.

Next cab off the rank was Michael McClean, the cheeky southern man with a fondness for a strategically placed deep square—bait for the unwary batter. Bowling with excellent control, he was perhaps unlucky to finish with just one wicket, courtesy of a well-judged catch by Allan on the boundary.

Useful spells of spin from Cowie, along with a late wicket from Martin, helped close out the innings. The wickets were shared around, making it difficult to single out a standout performer—it was very much a collective effort as LNZ restricted Wimbledon to 219 from their 40 overs. A total that felt achievable, even allowing for a few missed chances in the field.

LNZ’s Innings

The dazzling opening duo of new Chairman Cheyne Voss and Andrew Haines took to the field in pursuit of 219. After a couple of watchful overs, Haines fell lbw, bringing an early end to his stay. Voss soon followed, leaving LNZ in need of stability.

Campbell Cowie joined Tim McClean, who looked assured at the crease, playing with a straight bat and finding the boundary with some elegant drives. Unfortunately for Cowie, his stay was brief.

The innings was crying out for an anchor—and it arrived in the form of Leith Cowie and Adam Khanbhai. The pair steadied the ship superbly, guiding LNZ past 100 with composed and intelligent batting. Leith took on the spinners with confidence, while AK scored fluently, “taking back control” in a manner reminiscent of a certain UK referendum slogan.

Leith departed for an excellent 34, bringing captain Fulton to the crease. Despite a questionable hamstring, Fulton contributed a valuable 36, helping maintain momentum alongside AK. Although there were perhaps one too many enthusiastic singles, twos and threes, the scoreboard continued to tick.

Adam’s superb innings eventually came to an end for a well-crafted 78, a knock that combined composure with controlled aggression and proved to be the backbone of the chase.

With the game tightening, LNZ found themselves at 201 with four overs to go. Enter Ryan Allan. Arriving with just seven balls remaining, he wasted no time—charging his very first delivery and launching the opening bowler straight back over his head for four. The intent was unmistakable, shifting the pressure immediately and leaving LNZ needing just six runs from the final over.

Wilkie, Martin and Allan combined to see things through, with the winning run eventually coming via a scrambled bye—fittingly scrappy for a game that had tightened late.

AK’s Masterclass: Calm Amid the Chaos

The standout performance of the day belonged unquestionably to Adam Khanbhai. Walking in at a potentially tricky moment, he settled instantly, playing with a calm authority that suggested winter preparation far beyond the usual London nets.

His innings was defined by its balance—anchoring the chase while scoring at an impressive rate. By the time he departed, he had not only top-scored but had put LNZ firmly in control of the match.

By the time the final run was secured, LNZ had not only claimed victory but delivered a performance that reflected the experience—and occasional maturity—of the side.

A big thank you to Marty for organising the fixture with Wimbledon and for officiating on the day.

A strong start to the season for LNZ—may the wins continue to flow as freely as the vino in the months ahead.

Photos

AK led us to a big win over Wimbledon CC

Plenty of celebratory beer was enjoyed

Adam receives his player of the match award