Everards County League: Barkby United Seconds close in on table-toppers

On an unpredictable day at Beeby Road, Second XI captain Adam Cookson lost the toss and Barkby were asked to bat first.
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First for sports news PNL-140425-121708003

With a number of changes from the previous fixture, opener Ben Hollis had a new partner in Jack Wood and they made a good opening stand of 51, before Wood (23) was bowled looking to up the run rate.

Ken Eales soon followed for three, but Ryan Waplington and Hollis battled hard against improved bowling before Hollis was dismissed for 27.

Waplington and Conor Percy then produced a fine 100-plus partnership before both were bowled in quick succession. Waplington grafted hard for his 38 and Percy made a well constructed 69, his second half-century of the season.

Late hitting from Billy Tebbatt (11 not out) ensured Barkby gained maximum batting points, closing on a respectable 202-7.

The Rangers reply started quickly and aggressively, but Amit Barchha consistently beat the bat and was unlucky not to get a wicket.

Veteran bowler Dave Botting (4 for 20) and young Joe Keightley (2 for 17) reduced the run rate significantly and ripped through the top order.

Good pressure in the field and tight bowling from Ben Hollis led to impressive figures of 2 for 8 from his five overs, including a sharp stumping from keeper Dan Lever.

Opening bowlers Barchha and Cookson then returned and took a wicket apiece to bowl out Rangers for 115 in the 38th over and seal a convincing 87- run winning margin.

The whole team contributed to this big 30-point win which moved the Seconds within a victory of Division Five East leaders YMA. Barkby travel to Asian Sports on Saturday (1pm).

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