SANDFORD Thirds cruised to an easy eight wicket win against Ipplepen Thirds last Saturday on the second pitch at Creedy Park.

Having asked the opposition to bat first, the Sandford opening bowlers soon had Ipplepen Thirds in trouble at 36 for four thanks mainly to Jack James whose opening salvo brought him three wickets – all bowled.

Ipplepen never really recovered from this, and although their lower order managed to put some runs on the board, they were eventually bowled out for 141 after 39.3 overs. A number of their batters reached double figures but no one surpassed 19 against some tight Sandford bowling.

Jack James eventually finished with four-38 (eight), supported by Colin Blick who winkled out the lower order with three-28 (7.3) and Glyn Baker bagged another couple two-25 (eight) before having to leave the field with a dislocated finger. Thankfully he returned later in the day all mended, but aching a bit.

An early setback in the reply was soon put to bed as skipper Alex Stevens 65 (11 fours) and Will Street 51no (six fours) averted any fears. They added 128 for the second wicket before Alex was stumped. However, victory was achieved shortly afterwards without any further losses, and a score of 142 for two in only 32.5 overs ensured a maximum 20 points return, and consolidation of fourth spot in F Division Central.

This Saturday the Thirds travel to Chudleigh to play their Seconds with a 1pm start.

Phil Matten