Weston Super Mare CC 1st XI (177–6) Midsomer Norton CC 1st XI (116)

In a match reduced to forty overs per side last Saturday because of rain, it was Midsomer Norton’s inability to bat out their overs that cost them dearly.

Midsomer Norton won the toss and chose to field. Despite one early success for Andy Cox, wickets were hard to come by and only two of the Norton bowlers’ efforts were rewarded with opposition dismissals, Andrew Cox (3–23) and Chris Hampshire (3–38). The fifth wicket partnership of 70 was the most significant of the home side’s innings. John Williams struck 51 off 36 balls, the only batsman to reach that milestone in the game.

Norton initially made steady progress in pursuing their target and reached 82–3 when a self-induced collapse saw them lose seven wickets for 32 runs, all out for just 116 with more than six overs left to bat. Six of the Norton batsmen reached double figures, Nick Pang scoring 24 off just nine balls, but only Gunathilaka (22) occupied the crease for any length of time. The home side’s attack included former South African international and Somerset player, Charl Willoughby (2–6), but Ashley Allen (5–51) was the pick of the home side’s bowlers as Norton lost by 61 runs.

This Saturday, Norton welcome Keynsham to Withies Lane, the visitors just one place above them in the league table. The game starts at 12.30 p.m. The Second XI, after last weekend’s victory over Twyford House, will be hoping that their bright start to the season continues when they travel to Bradley Stoke. The Third XI play at home to Bitton and the Sunday XI travel to Churchways.

Last Sunday, the club’s Women’s team, Midsomer Mavericks, continued their successful start to the season with a league victory over Frome, which took them to the top of the league table. This Sunday, there is a Women’s Cricket Festival at Withies Lane for players aged 14+. A warm welcome (weather permitting) will be on offer at Withies Lane.

Organisers are looking for teams of 6–8 to take part, but you can also sign up as an individual and organisers will find a team for you and introduce you to your new team mates. You can register at: ecb.co.uk/womenssoftballcricket