Devon D division

Yelverton v Whitchurch

HONOURS were just about even in this closely contested match between Yelverton and Whitchurch first XIs.

The visitors put in a much improved performance against their local rivals but still have much work to do.

Skipper Hall won the toss again and this time his bowlers backed him up with early wickets.

McCrae was the first to strike as McDowell misjudged a length ball and was bowled. Broughton then displayed his intentions hitting his third ball for six, but soon after he found Sherrell in the deep and was on his way for 17.

Sambells picked up another two quick wickets leaving Yelverton on the ropes at 45-4. However, Whitchurch let the home side off the hook with a couple of missed chances and some friendly bowling. West (81) and Bennett (54) capitalised and swung the balance back in Yelverton's favour. Together they added 131 for the fifth wicket in only 18 overs and it looked like Yelverton would post a total close to 300.

Sambells (4-56) then struck and aided by Meadows (3-37) and Tamblin, Whitchurch reined their hosts back in. The final wicket proved elusive as Yelverton closed on 243 for 9.

After the interval Whitchurch too suffered a poor start. Cunningham (2-14) and Brain had Whitchurch under the cosh on 38-3, but Heatley and Vernon stabled the innings before Heatley fell to Avery. Vernon was then joined by Credicott, who despite the fading light batted sensibly for the remainder of the innings.

Yelverton mixed and matched their bowlers but could not find a way through. As darkness closed in Vernon (56no) and Credicott (60no) completed well deserved half centuries for a 111 partnership, taking their side past the losing draw total and on to an additional batting point for 175.

Yelverton (13 points) drew with Whitchurch (10 points); a draw was a fair result for both teams' contribution to the game although after a poor start to the season this was a much more encouraging result for the visitors.