Mexborough and Swinton Times May 13, 1927

A Quickfire Century

Tankersley’s early successes at Bolton on Saturday, meant that seven Bolton man fell for 51; including Albun Turner, Ashley Carr, Washington, Ernest Smith and Les Machin. This will not be accepted as evidence that Bolton are a weak batting side, or that Tankersley are a demon bowling combination. If there have been a momentary illusion of that kind what followed effectively dispelled it.

Cyril Probert (picture) flogged the bowling mercilessly and hit up 101 in an hour while Jimmy Ludlam stuck fast and made 14 at the other end! Ludlam has done that kind of thing before.

On this occasion it was a most interesting partnership, worth 127 for the eighth wicket. The side that can do that are not to be taken lightly. Probert is a brave hitter, has a good eye and powerful shoulders, needed for that role, and his was an exhilarating as well as an opportune bit of work.

We were wondering where the first century will come from in this season which has opened with a promise of record scoring; and that it has come from an unexpected quarter merely adds to Probert’s proud distinction.