Dorset v Devon

Sherborne School

10th July 2005

GABBITASS KEEPS HIS HEAD TO LEAD DEVON HOME

After the debacle of last week, Devon Under 12's got it right this week as they chased 144 to win against Dorset.

Asked to field first Devon stuck to their tasks very well on a sweltering day at the beautiful setting of Sherborne School. Some accurate bowling from Huxtable and Benton and an early wicket, a superb caught and bowled by Huxtable, resticted Dorset to 15 from the first 8 overs. Things didn't get much better during the next 8 either as Skinner and the ever miserly Sanders picked up a wicket apiece to have Dorset reeling at 36-3 from 16 overs. Dorset managed to put together some small partnerships but kep losing wickets just when they were looking dangerous. A decent spell from both spinners, Gabbitass and Menheneott helped to keep the run rate down and to their credit Devon fielded very well all afternoon in hot conditions. Huxtable came back to pick up a couple more wickets to finish with 3-29.

Devon's reply got off to shaky start as first Menheneott was caught at slip and Mitcham got cleaned up early as well. at 27-2 Gabbitass was joined by Brown and together they added 83 to take Devon towards victory. The drinks brought a wicket as Brown perished for a well made 40. There followed a needless run out, Hill the unlucky batsman. Gabbitass was joined by skipper Bess and thankfully they kept their heads to lead Devon to a six wicket victory with a couple of overs to spare. A very professional performance with the pieces of the Festival jigsaw starting to come together.