The honours board is once again led by Josh Carpenter this week, after a magnificent 156 took the First XI to the brink of promotion.
There were excellent contributions elsewhere in the Ones, with a patient and important knock from Michael Wood and a typically belligerent whack from Will Cheyney. Special mentions too for half-century makers Ben Robinson and Jack Brundle, while youngster Ed Tucknott produced a real ‘one for the future’ innings, smashing a quick-fire 36.
Having piled up the runs, the First XI still had to defend a big total to secure the victory. Whitchurch offered some stoic resistance before Alex Brundle took over, ripping through them with six wickets, ably backed up by Stef Kaltner with three.
There were wickets elsewhere too. Second and Third XI bowlers Mike Tiley, George Bird and Joby Beatty all weighed in with three apiece, while a special mention goes to youngster Dan Saines, who picked up his first league wicket.
So, not a bad day at all. It was a shame the Twos and Threes couldn’t pull off shock victories, but both acquitted themselves well against strong opponents chasing promotion of their own.
The Ones now head into the final Saturday looking to finish the job and seal promotion with another victory. The only potential spoiler is the changing weather, which means there’s a chance we could go up without hitting a ball.
Job done, of course, but after everything that has gone into the season, it would be a bit of a shame.
Much better to get out there and finish it in style.
