THERE has been little cricket during the past fortnight on which to report. Axminster forfeited their DWCA League game with Sandford. This was a great disappointment, as Sandford had 14 players vying for a game.

Having received an invitation to attend an eight-a-side tournament at Hatherleigh, the intention was for the younger members of the squad to play and the older ones to either have a day off or to help with the scoring/umpiring.

Illness and injury reduced Sandford to an assorted seven but when two dropped out overnight it was a rather forlorn and dispirited five who trekked to Hatherleigh.

Persistent rain did nothing to lift the spirits and when the tournament was called off, en-route it seemed fitting. However, being only a few miles away we turned up, as did all the other teams and so the tournament was back on, restricted to just the pitch with the artificial wicket and reduced overs but play on in the rain everyone did!

The sun only dared to show its face from 5pm in time for the play offs and final. Exmouth kindly took pity on Sandford and loaned them a couple of fielders (but they were not allowed to bowl or bat), whilst the other teams chipped in to help with umpires and scorers.

Sandford lost to Plymouth in their opening game by a mere three runs, but won their next two games against Hatherleigh Heroes and the Bay Beastettes - helped by the afternoon arrival of Kate and Lottie to aid their cause.

As runners-up in their division they then proceeded to the plays off, where they beat Hatherleigh Stars to end up third overall.

Our thanks go to Sue Tidball and everyone else at Hatherleigh for their calm efficient organisation which enabled this tournament to go ahead, albeit in a revised format.

Congratulations to Plymouth, who beat Abbotskerswell in the final. A huge "thank you" to Exmouth for lifting our spirits with their support at the start.

On a personal basis, "thank you" to Michelle, Kirsty, Becky and Carole for turning out so early on a Sunday – you make the hassle worthwhile - and to Kate and Lottie for joining us later.

Everyone at Sandford would like to wish Rose all the best for a speedy recovery, and hope that she will be able to join us as a spectator before the end of the season.

The next DWCA League game is on Sunday, July 26 against Topsham, at Creedy Park.