Fifers walk off over bust-up

Published on Saturday 4 July 2009 22:09

SCOTTISH cricket chiefs are set to launch an inquest after a physical confrontation between rival players almost led to a match being abandoned. The flashpoint happened during the first innings of yesterday's SNCL First Division clash between Ferguslie and Dunfermline at Meikleriggs.

Witnesses told how home batsman Alan Mories appeared to elbow opposing bowler Marshall Bunting after a delivery. The incident led to a bout of jostling as Dunfermline fielders dashed to the wicket to remonstrate with Mories.

At least five members of the Dunfermline team then walked off the ground in an apparent protest over the refusal of umpires Gordon Whitelaw and Allan Haggo to take action against Mories.

Only a plea from visiting skipper Gowtham Rai persuaded them to return to the fray following a stoppage of almost 15 minutes. SNCL officials will now demand reports from both clubs, along with the umpires and Mories – who faces a long ban if found guilty of a deliberate act of violence.

Mories went on to make a half-century as Scottish Cup holders Ferguslie produced their most powerful batting display of the season to reach 296. His effort was overshadowed by Indian pro Prav Mullick, who blasted an unbeaten 139. It was Dunfermline who prevailed, however, to take a further step towards the top flight.

Meanwhile, the start of the second half of the Premier Division campaign was marked by defeats for the top two sides, Aberdeenshire and Grange. But there was a much-needed confidence boost for struggling giants Greenock, who notched a notable triumph over Carlton.

Former Scotland cap Paul Hoffmann was the destroyer-in-chief for Uddingston against Grange at Bothwell Castle Policies. First, he compiled an untypically watchful 39 to help the hosts post a tally of 222 – then snapped up three top order wickets in quick succession to halt the Edinburgh outfit in their tracks.

Though Giles Holmes and Cammy Coles staged a temporary rally, Hoffmann came back to complete his five-scalp haul and shoot out Grange for just 128. Pro Tom Plant was the other Uddingston stand-out with a solid 82.

Clydesdale completed the double over the Dons at Titwood to boost their quest to challenge for the crown. And Saltires recruit Cameron Borgas thumped his first century for Greenock to deliver a further dent to Carlton's aspirations.

West of Scotland took advantage of the misfortunes of the leaders with a 31-run success over Watsonians. And Ayr's woes deepened when they were demolished by fellow relegation candidates Heriot's at Goldenacre.