Honiton 2nd XI chased leather on the small ground at Kentisbeare for much of the first half of a Tolchards Devon League 2nd XI C Division East match that was washed out halfway through the contest.
The home side won the toss and opted to bat. The overcast conditions suggested there might be something in it for the bowlers, but, for once this season, the Honiton strike bowlers had no joy and it was not until the introduction of Richard Hill that the initial breakthrough was made.
Hill, making a welcome return to action following injury, sent back one of the openers and, when a run-out dismissal followed shortly after, hopes were high in the Honiton ranks that they could start to get amongst the home batsmen.
However, Kentisbeare batsman Paul Diamond had other ideas and he went on to strike a sweet century, scoring 128 whilst Andrew Ogden hit 51 and, helped by some below-par fielding, the home side amassed a total of 305-7 from their 45 overs.
Ian Kelly, with figures of 2-30, was the most successful of the Honiton bowlers. There were also a brace of wickets (2-73) for the previous weeks ‘fivefer’ man, Andy Brinsford.
Chasing down 300 plus scores at Kentisbeare is not that unusual, but the Honiton batsmen were given no chance in the run chase when, during the tea interval, an hour-long downpour left the pitch awash with puddles and the match was abandoned, leaving both teams to head for the drier climes of the Keepers Cottage Inn!
Honiton II skipper Andrew Lapping said: “It was an off-day for us with ball and fielding, but we stay top and that’s most encouraging. In hindsight, our less-than-average display ion this occasion has not done any real harm to our bid for a top place finish and promotion. That said, the guys know this was well below the level we have come to demand – and expect – better is required –and will be produced – next time out.”
The nine points Honiton banked leaves them still top of the 2nd XI C Division East table, with second placed Clyst Hydon II four points behind.
On Saturday they host Axminster II at Mountbatten Park.
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