Weston-Super-Mare CC Exiles receive a French lesson from Nantes CC

Weston-super-Mare CC Exiles travelled to West France to play Nantes CC on Saturday 3 September for two 40 over matches.

Set up in 2007 by former Weston player Andy German, with the onus firmly on introducing the game to French nationals as well as providing a place to play for the ex-patriotic community. Nantes CC plays their cricket in the picturesque setting of the Vertou racecourse, on the banks of the river Erdre.

The first game on Saturday saw Nantes CC recover from 40-4 to post a challenging total of 195. Andy German dominated the Nantes innings with a pugnacious 70 not out, ably supported by James Ratcliffe with 42. Weston Exiles lost ex-Somerset player Perry Rendell early, and although a fine partnership of 35 by Jamie Harris (23) and Mark Gingell (6) gave the Exiles hope, the introduction of Jérémy Joubert proved pivotal. His spell of (4-32) allowed Nantes to record a resounding 112 run victory.

After being invited to bat on a turning wicket in the Sunday match, the Exiles posted a moderate 151 from their 40 overs, with Rendell contributing a stylish 42 and German (now a welcome guest in a flagging Exiles team!) 58*. Nantes replied in a shaky manner, stumbling to 15-3. Their innings was shored up with a fine partnership of 92 between Jagrut Thaker (47*) and Fred Le Roux (43) and they guided Nantes skilfully to within touching distance of victory. However, the introduction of Mark Gingell, and a telling second spell from Isabelle Costaz (3-14), swung things back in the Exiles favour. With 10 needed from the final over, Gingell held his nerve, and it took Nantes? American all-rounder Benny Rethmel (10) to scramble a two from the final ball to tie the match as he was run out going for the decisive third.

Weston Exiles President James Harris stated, ?We have had a wonderful weekend of cricket here in Nantes, and remain extremely grateful to the players and officials at Nantes CC for their hospitality. Both games were played in a competitive manner and in a great spirit, and that is testament to the great things that Andy has achieved in such a short period. Allez Nantes!? concluded Harris.

For more information about Nantes CC visit the website at www.nantes-cricket-club.com