Devon seconds D WestBridestowe seconds v Whitchurch secondsTHIS was a critical game between the teams in third and fourth place at the start of the day. Whitchurch won the toss and had no hesitation in inserting their hosts on a damp and soggy track. Unfortunately, for the Wayfarers, the bowlers did not back up the captain’s decision as too many wayward balls were punished by Shaw and Batstone. 

61 had been added in good time and without alarm when Batstone holed out to Webber off Marais for 13. Shaw continued to dominate the scoring, completing a fine half century. He had made 70 when he miscued a full toss from Northey into the grateful hands of Dunne. Whitchurch could have then got back in the game, but the inconsistencies remained. Jutson made 22, Lee 36 and Holiday 24 as Bridestowe set an imposing total. Webber was the pick of the bowlers with 3 for 35, but Bridestowe’s 235 looked more than enough.

The Whitchurch reply stuttered early on, as Shaw and Jutson bowled a tight line. At 37-4, the run chase was almost over before it started. Wallace and Tamblin set about building a platform and added 62 for the fifth wicket when Tamblin holed out for 20 off Valance (2-20).

Wallace completed his half century but was out shortly after for 52.

Northey made a useful 19, as Whitchurch looked to accrue batting points. However, Shaw returned to mop up the tail with 4-30. 

Bridestowe eased home by 77 runs and virtually securing third spot in the league table.