Sandford V Topsham (League match)

DESPITE raining all around the ground in the morning, the Colts' game went ahead. At 1pm the rain arrived at Sandford, but with everyone keen to play, the match began amidst persistent drizzle. After nine overs the game was abandoned as heavy rain set in.

Sandford v Hatherleigh (Friendly)

Illness, injuries and holidays hit Sandford, so with only seven players available, this fixture looked in jeopardy but with the policy of "the show must go on" survived.

A couple of fielders were borrowed and on we went, with a view that if everyone came off the field having enjoyed themselves, that was a good result.

In the end everyone had a chance to bat and bowl, some retired when they had either got plenty of runs or were too tired to run any more!

Jackie Snell and Michelle Johnson (45no) both remained unbeaten and ensured Sandford finished with the honour of most runs on the board.

Sandford v Torquay (League)

Sandford 84 – 8 H Ashplant 16no C Maher 16 (S Stacey 2-12 E Fielding 2-13)

Torquay 85 – 4 L Harris 38no E Fielding 25 ( B Folds 4 – 4 )

According to League rules a minimum of eight players are required for a game to proceed, otherwise a forfeit is recorded ,with 15 points granted to the opposition and 10 points deducted from the defaulter.

These were points we could ill afford to lose. Fortunately, on hearing of our desperate plight the preceding night, Tapps and Ashplant put the team before other commitments, whilst young Faith Johnson was thrown in at the deep end, having never played before .... game on!

The sun shone for a change and with accompanying music from the adjacent funfair, hopes were high for a competitive game.

Sadly Sandford lost the toss and then lost early wickets to reach a miserly 32 for five. Helen Ashplant and Carole Maher came to the rescue to post a more respectable 84 for eight at the close and gain valuable points.

A generous Torquay supporter mentioned at tea that their men's side had been bowled out for 35 on the previous day and still won, but we knew we had a mountain to climb.

Torquay's openers put on 59 before an impressive four wicket haul for four runs in her six overs spell by Becky Folds, gave Sandford a glimmer of hope.

Sandford were disappointed but all credit to a young Torquay side – a talented and disciplined unit.

The eight-a-side Festival in September will see the end of the season, but plans are afoot for a social gathering, following on from the enjoyable outing to Exmouth for the Devon v Worcs T20 challenge.

In addition, discussions are ongoing about further development of the women and girls section at Sandford CC both in the short and long term, so all interested parties are encouraged to contact existing players or telephone Jane on 07970 411791.

REMINDER

Calling all cricket enthusiasts (current and future): Sandford CC is to host the final of the Tony Pryce Sports Devon Senior Cup at their picturesque ground at Creedy Park on Sunday, August 30. Play starts at 1pm between Sidmouth (Premier Division champions 2009) and Plymouth.

This is a great opportunity not only to watch some competitive cricket but also to support your local club and meet many of the volunteers who work so hard to ensure the longevity of Sandford CC.

For those for whom cricket may not be a priority why not just come and savour the atmosphere and have a drink at the bar?

JW