SATURDAY was a good day for Stretton Cricket Club and an even better day for their man of the season Mark Critchley.
The all-rounder returned from holiday with his batteries fully recharged and proceeded to dominate the club's Cheshire Cricket Alliance match with Langley.
Stretton won the toss and elected to bat first. This looked to be a costly mistake when their top order was blitzed early on.
The home team were struggling at 29 runs for the loss of five wickets but the match was turned on its head by a 154-run stand for the sixth wicket.
The partnership was led by Mark Critchley, who bagged the first century of his career with a marvellous 101 not out.
He was backed up by Aussie slogger Ben Clissold, who answered his critics with a classy 66.
Skipper Phil James then hit 41 runs off only 19 balls as the home team posted a competitive total of 242-7.
Langley got off to a brisk start in reply but their progress was halted by a spell of two wickets for 29 runs by Paul Critchley.
Not content with his batting heroics, Mark Critchley then began to work his magic with the ball. He made a match winning contribution of 6-39 as Langley were skittled for only 175.
Langley's other two wickets were taken by Paul Marsh.
Stretton Seconds had to settle for a draw after dominating their game against Langley's second string.
By a strange coincidence, the star of the show was the youngest member of Stretton's Critchley clan, Steve. He fell just short of his dad's century milestone, being caught on the boundary for 95.
Other good scores came from Billy Hampson, 30 and Tim Mullins, 50 not out, as Stretton reached 220-6.
In reply, Langley seemed intent on stifling the game and their innings ended on 88-5.
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