Yelverton 1sts v Whitchurch
BOHEMIANS maintained their 100% run of losing the toss and batting first in tricky conditions, once again rose to the occasion.
The squad bats all the way to number eleven and it was needed this week as their visitors Whitchurch put up a spirited performance in the field.
With the Bohemians faltering at 38 for 4, Whitchurch skipper Martin Credicott may have sniffed an upset against his local rivals. The Whitchurch openers Dom Ruston (12-3-23-3) and Daz Sambells (13-1-53-3) bowled well, but once the sun came out, the Yelverton middle order upped the pressure on the change bowlers to reach a very good score in the conditions. Geoff Brain batted assuredly and skilfully for 50, backed by David Scott (33) returning to the team after his round-the-world tour, showing no signs of rust or nerves. Tim Rutherford kahuned a quick 15 and skipper Jez Stokes chipped in with 26 to take the Bohemians to 170 for 9. Josh Meadows deserves mention for his steady 9-1-38-3 as the run rate and score picked up.
Bohemians got off to a flying start after tea, with Iain Cunningham taking 2 wickets in two balls in his first over. He took a third wicket to leave Whitchurch reeling on 15 for 3. Robbie Bennett bowled with pace and swing at the other end, maintaining the pressure. Cunningham finished with a superb 6-1-17-3. Whitchurch's George Webb (55), provided the only major threat during the reply, playing with carefree abandon. Yelverton have the solid, canny change bowlers to deal with this and applied the necessary pressure, all taking a wicket each with economical figures. Leg spinner Ben Vince warrants special mention for his 7-4-10-1, maintaining a good balance of attack and defence, not easy for a leg spinner early season. Bennett returned to demolish the lower order, including Reeves (25), returning figures of 10.2-0-29-3, all 3 wickets in his second spell.
The Bohemians are now well into their stride, taking 18 points from this important derby, playing with a confidence and resilience that bodes well. Once again, ground fielding, catching and discipline were top quality.
Thanks to Whitchurch for their part in a competitive, yet friendly game, we wish them well for the season.
l Future Whitchurch fixtures: Tuesday sees Tamar Evening League A team host Lifton while the B team are away to Okehampton. On Saturday the first XI host Ipplepen while the second XI travel to Plymouth Civil Service.