All-rounder Qadoos leads way
The University of East London cricket club opened their outdoor season with a statement eight-wicket victory over Middlesex University.
UEL won the toss and elected to bowl first at Wanstead Cricket Club, with the Middlesex batsmen quickly under pressure from the bowling of Haroon Qadoos.
Middlesex captain Adam Cuthbert and his opening partner fought their way to 12 and 10 runs, respectively, before Qadoos collected their wickets.
But the next three batsmen were dismissed for single figures and Middlesex were 50-5 at the midway point of their 40-over innings, with Qadoos having claimed four of the scalps and captain Ali Wood the other.
Michael English and Ahmed Butt got into the action in the second half of the innings and took two wickets apiece, with Haroon completing his five-wicket haul as Middlesex were dismissed for 101 in the 38th over.
English and Mark Barrell opened the batting for UEL and began to knock off the runs, before Barrel was adjudged leg before wicket for 18 after a 46-run stand.
Qadoos then came to the crease and continued his brilliant day by smashing an unbeaten 42, including a six and eight fours.
Middlesex did not help their own cause by conceding 20 extras, and English’s 19 runs and Wood’s cameo (6 not out) helped UEL to their target in just 16 overs.
Wood said: “Haroon’s bowling for me was the most impressive part of his performance. We have seen how destructive he can be with the bat before, but the control and discipline he bowled with was outstanding and we hope he continues this good form throughout our season.
“To start the season with a convincing win is always a great way to start. We have been working hard over the winter to improve and we hope to continue our good form.”
UEL will face the University of Essex at Wanstead next Wednesday, with play starting at noon and Wood expects a tougher test.
He added: “We will take a lot from the performance [against Middlesex] and we hope to welcome back a couple of guys to strengthen the side.
“We will be confident going into the game.”
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