We were delighted to host our friends from the West at Shebbear College on a fine but chilly afternoon. The toss was important on a damp pitch that looked helpful to bowlers and North skipper, Reuben Windley won out, putting the West in. Early wickets were the result, one an unfortunate run out and the second a super delivery from Ben Seaman (1-11). The West then fought back sternly and progressed to 40 with Charles Bowden striking four powerful boundaries, before being deceived by Windley (2-16) for a well-made 25. A middle-order collapse followed. Jasper Presswell (2-7) bowled two victims at a vital time, there was a spectacular one-handed catch by Dan Moody at point and an alert run out from the deep by Henry Cooper. Cooper (1-5) then bowled a short, brisk spell and Charlie Preswell’s off spin tidied up the tail. The West was bowled out for 71 in just 20 overs. It did not look enough, but you never know until both teams have batted.

Jasper Preswell (13) and Hugh Kilvington steadied any nerves and gave the North a perfect start with a 38 run opening stand, against a testing opening attack. When Kilvington was also out at unlucky 13, Windley and Wilf Auty only had 13 runs to polish off to win the game for North with 23 overs to spare. The game was played in a great spirit and the West never gave up, bowling and fielding with enthusiasm to the very last. I would like to thank Tony the umpire, Andy Seaman for standing at square leg, the parents who volunteered to score, Susannah for helping with all local arrangements and the many others who came to support and spend a pleasant afternoon together. It was a splendid way to kick off a new season.