There were two curious matches against Bingham in 1834 – Bingham being allowed four innings to Nottingham’s two; Nottingham won both. The Nottingham Club issued a challenge to the counties of Norfolk, Cambridge and Hertford, to which Cambridge responded.
Cambridge Town Club proved none too formidable and were beaten on Parker’s Piece by 152 runs and on the Forest by an innings and 114 runs. In the game in Cambridge played on 22 and 23 July, Nottingham made 136 with Bart Good top scorer with 47. Cambridge were shot out for 23 with five wickets for Tom Barker and four for Sam Redgate. Thomas Heath made 30 as Nottingham in their second innings made 112. Barker picked up a further five wickets as Cambridge Town made 73 in their second innings. John Oscroft made his First-Class debut for Nottingham in this game. He was one of three cricketing brothers from Arnold and he was regarded as a very stylish batsman – his nephew William was later to captain Notts.
About 10,000 spectators watched the match on the Forest, which was also completed within two days. Cambridge Town batting first were bowled out for 29. Nottingham replied with 228, top scorers were George Jarvis (59), William Garrat (38) and Barker (30). Cambridge Town made 85 second time around. As the game finished early the Cambridge players then opposed the New Forest Club with Clarke as a given man. Clarke scored 42 from the home side’s score of 121 and Cambridge were 18-3, when rain ended the game. The Old Club also beat their ancient adversary, Sheffield, by an innings and 23 runs at the Hyde Park Ground in Sheffield on 8, 9, 10 and 11 September. Sheffield 88 and 51. Nottingham 162 (William Clarke 65).
October 2020