Devon seconds D West

Whitchurch seconds v Dartington and Totnes thirds

THE seconds once again fielded a strong team for the trip to Harberton.

They were asked to bat first but the majority of the early runs came from extras. A proliferation of wides made it difficult for the batsmen to settle. The run rate was steady, but the experienced top order did not get away. Credicott took his time, made 17 and added 47 for the third wicket with Rob Powell.

A couple of wickets to Raven (3-32) left Whitchurch at 78-4. Powell and Tamblin then added 30 for the fifth wicket until Powell's luck ran out and he was caught for 38, having offered up several chances to the hosts.

Tamblin (22) marshalled the remaining batsmen to help Whitchurch post a competitive total of 156 all out.

Harvard ripped out the tail with 4-16. Only 104 runs had come off the bat, with 52 extras including 49 wides.

Discipline was the order of the day for Whitchurch in the field. Northey struck early aided by a splendid diving catch from Webber. Taylor and Harvard saw off the new ball but found runs difficult to accumulate. Sambells bowled a tight line without the rewards.

The Darts middle order then evaporated as they slipped from 31-1 to 35-5 — veterans Credicott (2-16) and Tamblin doing most of the damage.

Harvard and Raven fought bravely and frustrated Whitchurch for several overs. However, when Northey returned to rip one through Raven (18) the game was almost up for the Darts. Hodge, on his way to 3-15, turned one in to remove Harvard for 36.

Whitchurch won by 56 runs. Although 19 wides were conceded, this was an improved bowling display. The fielding remains a work in progress with several catches being missed.