Last Saturday, Keynsham, who were one place above their hosts at the start of the game, won the toss at a sunny Withies Lane and decided to bat.
Losing their first wicket at eleven, Keynsham lost wickets steadily thereafter, and there were no partnerships of any significance. From 95-8, the last two wickets added 41 runs to get the visitors into three figures, but, having chosen to bat, they were undoubtedly disappointed with their own batting performance. Paul Robbins scored 41 from the middle order at almost a run a ball, and the pick of the Norton bowlers was Andy Cox, who took 5-22 in ten overs. Hampshire, Gunathilaka, Pang and Chard shared the other five wickets.
In reply, the home side struggled to assert themselves early on, and with Norton at 75-5, Keynsham were definitely still in the game. Then, Daniel Chard (nineteen not-out from 58 deliveries) provided solid support to skipper Nick Pang (57 not-out) to steer Norton safely to their second victory of the season by five wickets. Batting at three, Gunathilaka contributed 21. The victory leaves Norton in the same place in the table, but they have closed the gap on teams above them. The game on Saturday was Martin Cox’s 250th First XI League appearance, and the 200th First XI League appearance for Nick Potter. This Saturday, 9th June, the First XI visit third-placed Ilminster. The game starts at 12.30 p.m.
Also on Saturday, the Second XI are at home to Frenchay, and the game starts at 1.30 p.m. The Third XI have an away fixture at Timsbury. There are more fixtures on Sunday, 10th June for the Midsomer Mavericks women’s team, who are currently top of the table.
Charlie Matthews