Devon G West

Ipplepen thirds v Whitchurch seconds

THE Wayfarers’ second XI travelled to Stover School to play Ipplepen thirds.

After winning the toss Jason Webber asked the home to bat and his players to face the sweltering heat.

Following an early wicket for Mackenzie-Smith (1 for 23) the decision looked somewhat questionable as Heath (91) and Bell (41) put on 100 runs without ever looking in too much trouble.

On a fast outfield the ball ran to boundary as soon as it passed a fielder.

The introduction of young Tyler Hunt straight after the drinks break brought an immediate reward. After three fairly expensive overs he found his rhythm and the right line for the all weather pitch.

The removal of Bell brought on Webb to bowl who nibbled away at the middle order picking up a couple of wickets.

With 10 overs to go it looked as though Ipplepen could set a demanding total.

Tyler Hunt came back on and took four further wickets to finish with 5 for 41 and Ipplepen on 197 from their 40 overs.

In reply, Steve Hunt (35) and Martyn Credicott (70) made the total look as though it would be reached easily.

With Hunt well bowled by Bell (2-23) followed shortly by Credicott, there was a noticeable wobble in the batting. Two quick wickets and the drying up of runs found Whitchurch somewhat nervous on 146 for 3.

Thirteen overs to get 60 runs against a bowling attack that was finding its rhythm caused some anxious thoughts about the extra runs allowed through dropped catches.

Hunt (24 not out) and Tamblin (13 not out) played sensibly and took the game away from Ipplepen.

Barely offering a chance they saw the game out with a couple of overs to spare gaining Whitchurch a useful 19 points.

On Saturday the seconds are home to Chagford seconds; on Sunday Whitchurch play a friendly against Plymouth Civil Service and Roborough.