Devon D

Whitchurch v Countess Wear

AT the start of the second half of the season Whitchurch entertained a Countess Wear team that beat them soundly on the first day.

It was a different story this time round as Whitchurch continued their improvement with a well-earned draw and a nine point haul that keeps them in touch with safety.

Not that it was all good news for the Wayfarers as once again the opposition opened with an imposing partnership of 77 runs. Both Darke (60) and Davey (50) played with suitable caution against the tight bowling of McCrae (0-30) and Webb (3-56).

At the half way stage Countess Wear had nearly 100 runs for the loss of only one wicket. That they were held to 233 was down to a mixture of rash shots and good fielding by Whitchurch.

Irish (42) and Jarvis (21) both threatened but were bowled when trying to hit out once too often. The tail did not wag with any effect as Meadows (4-73) and the returning Webb kept a lid on progress.

Dias, who with a remarkable 3-7 off 13 overs, put to bed any chance of victory, was unable to repeat the first encounter as the Whitchurch batsmen showed much greater resilience.

Captain Richard Hall (20) played a resolute and patient innings and needed another batsmen from the top half to stay with him.

Once again the team were rescued by the lower order. In particular Joel Heatley showed his all-rounder skills with a match saving 56 off nearly 100 deliveries. He was helped with useful partnerships with Josh Meadows who bludgeoned a quick fire 18 before being run out, a more circumspect Nigel Barriball and experienced Bob Powell.