After last week’s loss to Sandford, pre season got into full swing this week as the 1s hosted Bradninch and the 2s visited Cullompton. It can be a challenge to get 2 sides out in April and with over 20 unavailable it was encouraging to see two strong XIs.
The 1s lined up with: Greed, Fielder, Chilcott, Van Der Meulen, Baldock, H. Choules, Robbins, Porter, G. Daldorph, Slaverio, J. Choules.
Bradninch won the toss and elected to bat first at Station Ground. The visitors’ top order set about positively and despite some expansive shots, Slaverio and Daldorph picked up 2 early wickets apiece, leaving the score at 39-4 at the end of the first powerplay.
Sam Franks and opposition captain Eliot Acton shored things up for the visitors although Jason Van Der Meulen caused them plenty of problems bowling 6 overs for just 12 runs.
After the drinks break, Jake Choules broke the partnership trapping Franks LBW as the score reached 96-5.
Wickets then continued to tumble at a steady rate with Choules picking up 3 and Daldorph completing his 5fa. Eliot Acton was the last man to fall, bowled by Paul Fielder for 56. Thors required 132 to win.
Greed and Fielder set about the target, showing great discipline and patience to ensure valuable time in the middle. The pair put on 75 for the opening stand with Fielder eventually falling for 21.
Chilcott then came and went, shortly before Greed retired on 50.
Van Der Meulen (25) and Baldock (12) made quick work of the rest of the target. The former hit a huge six into the neighbouring field to win the game with 11.5 overs to go.
Pre season concludes next weekend as we host Bridestowe on Saturday and Heathcoat for the Richard Cabburn memorial game on Sunday.
Skipper Choules is hoping for more valuable time in the middle for batters and would like to see the bowling unit cut down on extras ahead of the league season.
Thorverton Cricket Club 