A strong performance all-round to seal 30 points

Following a poor day at the races a week earlier, the Village 1st XI produced a thoroughly professional display to take 30 points against a Shenley side sitting atop the division.

Having been put in the field by the opposition, the Village started in imposing form as opening bowlers Saahil Mehra and Shash Seam not only took 3 early wickets but also choked the batting side of runs for extended periods. Seam’s spell was especially frugal; going for just 5 runs in 7 overs.

Despite a battling partnership between the opposition numbers 3 and 5 that last some 25 overs, the runs were hard to come by for Shenley as Village showed great commitment in the field – even in the face of being down to 10 men for roughly 8 overs as Devraj Ray stepped off with an injury. It was a testament to the disciplined bowling display that all but 7 of the 9 Shenley wickets to fall were either bowled or LBW and only 13 extras were allowed in 53 overs. Majid Asif ended with 3 wickets, while Mehra and Marcus Cara both chipped in with 2 a piece. Captain Dave Overton and Seam removed the other 2 batsmen.

With memories of the previous week’s shambolic and harried run-chase, a sense of calm was required and dutifully provided by opening bat Danny Potter who anchored the innings with a fine knock of 69. Support was provided in parts by Marcus Cara who chipped in with 15 and Andrew Potter who added a patient 19 to the board, before Devraj Ray came in to finish the game off with a boundary to mid-off.

With results elsewhere working in favour, the Village ended Saturday night just 3 points off the top of the league and with a fantastic all-round performance to take into their next fixture.