Devon second XI D (West)
Chagford seconds v
Whitchuch seconds
WITH many of the youngsters unavailable, it was more senior men of Whitchurch to the fore on the visit to Chagford.
Returning skipper Tamblin continued Whitchurch's remarkable run of winning the toss in every match and inserted the home side hoping to get some early wickets. However, in difficult damp conditions the wickets failed to materialise and Chagford got off to a flyer with Filor (31) and Whitchurch old boy Whittingham (35) adding 75 in 12 overs for the first wicket. Filor was then bowled by Tamblin (2-65).
Whittingham then shared a stand of 61 with Bowes as Chagford started to run away with the game. Whittingham finally fell caught by Tamblin off Jackman (2-72).
Bowes went on to complete his half century, not distracted by the pony 'invasion' that delayed play.
For a few overs in the middle of the innings Tamblin and Jackman bowled tight and could have restricted Chagford to a manageable total. However some lusty blows from Penberthy (43no) and Bowes helped their side pass the 200 mark.
Bowes was finally out caught in the deep by Freedman off Poole for 99. Chagford immediately declaring on 264 for 5 with 3 overs remaining.
Whitchurch made a fine start in reply. Hodge and Hall rolled back the years adding 48 for the first wicket, before a terrible mix up resulting in Hodge being run out for 29. Hall continued to make runs and added 59 in partnership with Freedman for the third wicket. A few quick wickets then fell to Letheren (3-18) as Hall was stumped for 34 and Freedman bowled for 30.
Jackman and Powell batted out the overs and collected a couple of batting points, but Whitchurch were unable to reach the 178 they needed for the losing draw. Their innings closing on 153 for 5.
Once again having only 10 players made things difficult for Whitchurch, particularly as Chagford's ground is a lot to cover if a team is a man down. Whitchurch felt that although losing this represents progress and a sign that better things are to come.