Mixed fortunes for Lincolnshire in One Day Trophy clashes

Lincolnshire CCC experienced the full emotional spectrum of limited-overs cricket over the past week, following up a dramatic last-gasp victory over Northumberland at Bracebridge Heath with a disappointing defeat at Woodhall Spa to Norfolk in their third NCCA One Day Trophy outing.

Lincolnshire’s home opener at Bracebridge Heath delivered one of the most gripping finishes the ground has seen in recent seasons.

After being set a competitive target of 261, captain Nick Keast, returning figures of 4-48 runs from 10 overs, the hosts were guided superbly by Sam Evans, whose composed 85 formed the backbone of the innings and kept Lincolnshire in the contest as wickets fell around him. Evans found support in the shape of Tom Keast (47).

The match tightened dramatically in the closing stages.

With the game on a knife-edge, Lincolnshire slipped to nine wickets down, still needing 14 runs from the final over.

The pressure was immense; the margin for error non-existent.

But Jake Ludlam and Bracebridge’s own, Alex Moor held their nerve.

Working the strike smartly and refusing to panic, the pair inched their side towards the target before Moor struck the decisive runs with just two balls remaining, sealing a memorable one-wicket win and sparking jubilant celebrations.

However, Lincolnshire’s third fixture, at home to Norfolk, told a different story.

Despite moments of promise, Lincolnshire were unable to reproduce the composure and execution that had carried them over the line a week earlier.

Norfolk controlled key passages of play with disciplined bowling and well-timed partnerships, preventing Lincolnshire from building the momentum required to mount a serious challenge. Despite contributions with the ball, again coming from Nick Keast (3-37 from 10) and youngster James Laud (3-42 from 10), Norfolk posted a competitive 258 for the loss of nine wickets.

In reply, Lincolnshire’s chase got off to a stuttering start with only Freddie Gossnall (33), James Laud (47) and Pranav Pothula (52 non out) able to make telling contributions.

The home side's innings came to an end on 181 all out, in turn registering the first loss of the 2026 campaign.

The result leaves Lincolnshire with two wins from their opening three matches - competitive, but with areas to sharpen as the Trophy campaign unfolds.