ON another gloomy, damp summer?s afternoon, Whitchurch seconds kicked off the Mansbridge & Balment cricket week with a well deserved win over Kentisbeare. Once again Whitchurch won the toss and followed their normal game plan of inviting the opposition to bat. Horler and Thomas initially kept things tight, as wickets proved surprisingly hard to come by. Squire batted patiently on his way to 57, whilst Macartney came him at three and chanced his arm with some lusty blows to score a quick fire 42. After both had fallen to the nous of Elliott, Kent? struggled to score at any great rate. Tamblin and Elliott tied things down, taking wickets with the assistance of good catches from Newton and Horler. Elliott completed his 13 overs with 4 for 56 as Kentisbeare closed on 196 for 6. In reply, Whitchurch made the worst possible start, losing Chappell to a golden duck. Stokes and Freedman then rebuilt the innings, adding 114 over 28 overs, Stokes falling for a well made 44. Warwick then picked up the baton, as a variety of good shots and excellent running between the wickets took Whitchurch close to their target. Freedman eventually fell for 84 to Howe (2 for 37), leaving the old heads of Elliott and Warwick (42 no) to see their side home with six overs to spare. Whitchurch taking a much needed 18 points from the game. Next week, Whitchurch travel to leaders Chudleigh, whilst the first eleven entertain local rivals Yelverton. This match will be followed by a quiz night starting at 8pm at the club.
