Devon seconds D West

Whitchurch seconds v Yelverton thirds

THIS match was played in atrocious conditions, but credit to both sides for getting a game played in this most dreary of summers.

Whitchurch won the toss and elected to field. Hall and Webber (2 for 28) kept things tight early on and were well supported in the field. Excellent catches taken by Sambells, Macrae and Marais saw Yelverton struggling at 42-3.

Beauchamp and Chetwynd used their experience to work the ball around and frustrate the home side’s bowlers. They added 70 for the fourth wicket until Beachamp was well caught in the deep by Webber off Marais (2-30). Only Chetwynd showed much resistance for Yelverton and then he holed out to Macrae for 33. Sambells (2-19) and Hodge (2-25) mopped up the tail, dismissing the visitors for 148 with two balls of the innings to go.

In reply, Whitchurch got off to a steady start. Dawe tying up one end. However, Hodge and Alford were getting themselves set, while keeping an eye on the run rate in case the weather worsened. At the halfway point and a ‘game’ completed, Whitchurch were 74-0 and ahead.

From there, they pushed on. Hodge batting superbly throughout completed his second half century. Alford providing support before also completing his third 50 of the season.

Whitchurch coasted home to a ten wicket victory with more than 16 overs to spare.

Hodge finishing unbeaten on 82.

Whitchurch take 20 points from the game and remain firmly in the promotion race.