Whitchurch v Woodland Fort 1st XI

THE season started in a rather soggy manner when Whitchurch entertained last season?s wooden spooners.

Fort won the toss and had no hesitation in inserting the home side. But Whitchurch made light of the poor conditions racing to 59 for no loss when heavy rain brought a long break after only 10 overs.

After an early tea, play resumed, with the contest reduced to 43 overs a side. Chappell and Credicott set about the Fort bowling with some aggressive hitting, Fort trying a variety of bowlers in an effort to reduce the run rate.

The opening pair had added 171 in 29 overs, when Credicott holed out for 56. The loss of a wicket failed to halt new skipper Chappell?s progress, though, as he scored his second league ton for Whitchurch and led his side to an imposing 206 for 1 with an unbeaten knock of 134.

In reply, Fort lost the early wicket of Stone to Lavis, who bowled a tidy controlled spell, conceding only 13 runs from his 9 overs. He was ably assisted by McDougall (2-24),

However, Whitchurch did not have things all their own way. Dennis carried his bat for 55 and Mackay scored a useful 35. with 10 overs remaining, Fort required 8 an over, but ultimately lost wickets as they chased a victory, Credicott completing a fine debut with 2 for 17.

Whitchurch v Cockington 2nd XI

WHITCHURCH were left looking for positives after being well beaten at Cockington in this their first game in the Devon League.

After losing the toss and batting on a soft, wet pitch, Whitchurch made good early progress through Rae and Gray.

They then slumped to 29 for 4, before Heatley (25) and Alford added 32 for the fifth wicket, Colegate (3-15) from 12 overs doing most of the damage. Whitchurch posted a total of 90 all out. A total which at least provided a challenge.

The bowling was more encouraging, with good performances from Heatley, Alford and Woodrow. Cockington continually chanced their arm on a much drier pitch but had 52 on the board before Jones was out for 21 to a superb low catch at slip from Rae.

The bowlers continued to bowl a good line and make the Cockington players take chances to score their runs. However, poor catching badly let them down, as at least five chances were spilled, Cockington eventually easing to victory by 9 wickets, but only after 33 overs.

This week, the first eleven travel to local rivals Roborough, while the seconds entertain Woodland ford Seconds.