Devon second XI

Whitchurch seconds

v Lewdown seconds

THIS was an encouraging start to the season for both second XI teams. An even contest throughout, it was apt that rain should bring an early close being that both teams finished with 13 points.

With rain always forecast, it was no surprise that Whitchurch, having won the toss invited the visitors to bat first.

Josh Vernon bowled with good pace and should have had a wicket with this second ball, dropped by skipper Tamblin. Two balls later, though Vernon had his man, with Elliott snaffling the catch.

Ollie Brown steadied the Lewdown ship as the score passed 50, but three quick wickets shifted the balance back to Whitchuch.

Sivyer was introduced to the attack and struck twice in his first over. Lewdown skipper Worth then counter attacked with good effect, bludgeoning the bowling to a quick fire 60, ably assisted by Mark Martin.

Sivyer claimed 3 for 28 from his spell, before Vernon returned to collect a second victim to record 2 for 24 from 10 overs. Tamblin bore the brunt of Worth's hitting, but finally got his man and then cleaned up the tail to finish with 4 for 59. Lewdown set a total of 165 all out.

Lewdown got the perfect start in reply, with Street taking a sharp return catch off his own bowling in the first over.

Sivyer and Barrriball then batted sensibly to see off the new ball and add 75 for the second wicket. As the clouds darkened, play was suspended for 10 minutes, during which time Lewdown re-grouped. Wickets fell at regular intervals, including a suicidal run out. All the while Whitchurch were inching towards their target; Sivyer with 48 and Daymond 23, whilst Street took 3 for 42.

Further heavy rain forced the players from the field again. Play briefly resumed but in less than an over conditions became too difficult. Whitchurch seconds ended on eight wickets down for 137 when the rain finally halted proceedings — leaving Lewdown two wickets short of victory and Whitchurch 28 runs short.

Both teams will be happy with their efforts and 13 point hauls at the start of the season.