pool welcome foes boro to park drive

With the sun set to make an appearance over the weekend, there will be no better setting than the picturesque Park drive ground, for some of the North East’s elite cricketers to play.

Pool name a strong side to face the Teessiders, and come into the game after a positive result last Monday at Stokesley.

Despite starting slowly, Pool showed great character to rebuild their innings and post a competitive score on a damp surface after losing the toss for the third successive game.

Their bowlers too showed great patience, with Stokesley reaching 79 for the loss of just one wkicket, before almost falling foul of Pool’s spin options.

Dale Metcalfe and Jonathan Carson almost spun Pool to victory.

Pool welcome back Phil Mustard to their side. He showed glimpses of his ability last Saturday on a wicket which had suffered badly from the heavy rain.

He will be hoping he can make his mark and make a telling contribution in the game.

Also returning back into the first team berth is Ollie Mole who had a very succesful year in the seconds.

He will be hoping to make the most of any bowling or batting opportunity that he is afforded this week. Peter Rhoden and James Piper revert back into the second team.

Lewis Stabler, Callum Prosser and Ollie Mole will provide the quick bowling options, whilst Chris Harrison will also have Dale Metcalfe and Jonathan Carson to spin the ball alongside himself.

The combination almost worked wonders last time out against a strong Stokesley side, with victory just outside of their grasp.

Middlesbrough always provide Hartlepool with a tough game.

James Lowe particularly likes the West Park ground, having scored heavily there in the past.

Their side will also include former Pool player Paul Johnston and former county player Adil Ditta.

Steven Reeves will also want to make an impact on the game, whilst youngsters Sam Goudie and Richard Knaggls will be hoping to make a positive impact.