Everards County League: Melton Mowbray strengthen promotion bid with Kibworth win

Phil James snaffles the wicket of Kibworth's Bilawal Bhatti. EMN-160816-125428002

The Division Four East leaders earned 25 points for the seven-wicket victory, but second-placed Market Overton cut the gap to six points after securing a maximum 30-point win at home to Dunton Bassett.

Opening bowler Karl Tew (5 for 22) was in the wickets once again as he ran through the visitors’ top order.

Phil James chipped in with two wickets, and Paul Stevenson removed top scorer Lee Butler, inducing an edge behind to Potter for 35, as Kibworth were restricted to just 121-9 from their 45 overs.

Melton players celebrate with James EMN-160816-125452002

James (24) and Potter put the home side well on their way to their small target, and despite losing Lee Freer cheaply and then skipper Simon Brown for 18, Potter remained immovable to see Melton to victory in just 25 overs.

Kibworth: 121-9.

Bowling: K. Tew 12-5-22-5; M. Roberts 10-2-30-0; P. James 6-0-19-2; P. Stevenson 11-4-23-1; S. Brown 6-2-14-0.

Melton: G. Potter 71*, P. James 24, L. Freer 3, S. Brown 18, M. Roberts 0*, Extras 7. Total: 123-3.