South Notts League: Old Dalby toast promotion as Wymeswold survive

Old Dalby, from left, back Chris Knott, Carrick Fone, Phil Greaves, Joe Gant, Rob Herrick, Ben Wass, Michael Coulter, Hazel Kirk; front - Joe Heskey, Alex Purcell, Harry Clayton, Paul Kirk, Lee Creedon. EMN-160829-152700002

The hosts knew they had to beat Wymeswold Second XI, while hoping leaders Belvoir Third XI slipped up at Bingham to snatch top spot.

But Belvoir’s lightning quick seven-wicket win, having bowled out Bingham’s second string for 45, clinched the championship in the only game to be played to a finish.

After winning the toss, Old Dalby skipper Joe Gant gambled by asking Wymeswold to bat first in the hope of trying to beat the weather.

Wymeswold Second XI, from left, back Steve Hamilton, Rob Abba, Nick Shaw, Jason Whowell, Charles Edwards, Andy Matthews; front - Phoebe Shelton, Richard Bowley, Graham Barry, Adrian Rush EMN-160829-152714002

However, Graham Barry hit 56 for the visitors, supported by Charles Edwards (33) and Pete Shaw (30), as the Wolds side batted through to 191 all out in 39.4 overs.

Gant ended with figures of 3 for 31, Joe Heskey claimed 3 for 29, and Rob Herrick finished things off with 2 for 4.

Then the rain hit and Old Dalby were unable to begin their reply as the game was abandoned with both sides taking 10 points.

The result, combined with the previous week’s abandoned match at Belvoir, left Dalby to settle for promotion, and gave Wymeswold Seconds another season in the division.

They lie eighth and are guaranteed to finish outside of the relegation places with one game still to play, at East Bridgford, on Saturday (1pm).