Friendly

Whitchurch Wayfarers v

Plymstock

THE new season at Whitchurch started as the last one finished, in glorious sunshine. New paint sparkled and the ground looked wonderful.

Visitors Plymstock of Devon League division B soon brought a sense of sobriety to the occasion.

Batting first the openers Wood (121) and Mackay (64) hit a flurry of boundaries as they raced to an opening stand of 142.

The bowlers took a lot of punishment with Poole (1 for 33) the most accurate. It was only when Woodrow (3-50) came on that wickets started to fall.

With such a solid base Plymstock went for a commanding total as their batsmen gained useful time at the crease.

Their total of 275 off 45 overs was a stiff target. When Whitchurch batted it soon became apparent that the target was well beyond their capabilities. Their first appearance on grass did not last too long.

After Jordan (2-3) took away the openers, Ali (4-6) swept away the middle order; helped to some extent by early season rash shots.

At 9-4 the game was gone and an unwanted record low score was on the cards. Charlie Barriball (35) showed the others how it could be done with a patient innings of real quality.  He finally found a partner to stay around; Paul Tilsley (15) played and missed early on but gained confidence as the ball moved closer to the middle of the bat.

The accuracy of the bowling was too much and Whitchurch eventually succumbed on 66.

On Sunday Whitchurch host Tavistock, starting 1.30pm.

Successful registration evenings were held earlier in the week. A warm welcome awaits any new player who would like to join this friendly club.

Every week sees regular training sessions run by qualified coaches. Umpires and scorers are also welcome with training costs covered by the club.

Anyone interested then please contact Graham on 01822 614984.