Philadelphia CC's Craig ‘Sheldon’ Galley takes seven wickets in four overs against Shotley Bridge

The club had arranged an away game last Saturday but it was switched to Phili after the Shotley Bridge ground was unfit due to heavy rain.

And what a great decision it turned out to be Philadelphia s Craig ‘Sheldon’ Galley.

With Phili’s academy side being bowled out for 105 from 24.5 overs, things were not looking good.

Indeed, Shotley Bridge were coasting to victory at 72 for three only for some dramatic events to change the game.

Enter 21-year-old ‘Super Sheldon’ – who was brought into the attack for the home side.

Galley bowled three batsmen out in as many balls and struck a leg before wicket in his fourth to signal a remarkable turnaround.

​Shotley Bridge were now 72 for seven reeling under this magnificent spell of bowling and more drama was to follow.

​The last two balls of Sheldon's fourth over produced two further wickets.

And, despite a vociferous appeal for LBW on the first ball of Sheldon’s fifth over, the appeal was turned down by the umpire depriving Sheldon of two hat-tricks.

In spite of this setback, Sheldon took the last wicket three balls later to hand the hame to Phili and break Shotley Bridge’s hearts.

Sheldon ended the game with magnificent figures from 4.4 overs: including seven wickets for three runs, with six of those bowled and one LBW.

Philadelphia’s junior academy was set up in 2003 with the aim to provide an opportunity for young people to play cricket and to develop skills.