The Wayfarer Blog

Winter Nets – updated

neiltamblin — Fri, 13 Jan 2012 07:20:09 +0000

Great attendance at first session this week – 17 in total.

An extra session is available this Thursday 19th January again from 9-10pm at Tavistock School.

Next session after that is Thursday 26th January and then every other week.

Expected cost of £2 per session (TBC)

Otherwise, please contact Gavin, Hammy or Bob for more information.

AGM Report

neiltamblin — Wed, 21 Dec 2011 08:20:53 +0000

The Annual General Meeting passed off without major incident on 2^nd December.

The turn out was average but nevertheless encouraging.

Reports were received and passed. The accounts showed a slight out turn which was largely due to the club absorbing the VAT rise and not increasing bar prices and the late receipt of the sponsorship money.

Fixtures are already in place for 2012, as well as hosting events such as the schools cricket festival.

The main points of business passed are as follows: -

Subscriptions will increase in 2012. However, those paying before 30^th June will benefit from a special offer of membership at 2011 prices.

Match fees will also rise to £4 per match for all day cricket. Costs have continued to rise and fees have remained at £3 for approximately 10 years.

Despite both rises, the meeting agreed that Whitchurch still provides excellent value for money.

After 4 seasons in the top job, Neil has “retired” to attend the Olympics and passed the baton on to Gavin. In turn, Gavin has recruited Rob Rawlings to be his side kick.

All of the other committee positions remain the same for 2012. This includes Richard Hall as First XI skipper. Announcements about the Second XI skipper will be made in the new year, once the new committee has assessed the options.

There being no other business or questions, all adjourned to the pub.

Net sessions are already booked in for pre-season and work will continue throughout the winter in preparation for the new season.

AGM date

neiltamblin — Mon, 28 Nov 2011 07:31:39 +0000

The club Annual General Meeting will be held in Whitchurch Village Hall on Friday 2nd December starting at 8pm.

Any apologies should be sent to chairman@whitchurch.cc.

Presentation night – Seniors

neiltamblin — Tue, 11 Oct 2011 07:31:18 +0000

The prizes were recently handed out to the seniors and Ladies at Whitchurch Cricket Club.

The club welcomed Nick Henderson of sponsors Mansbridge and Balment to hand out the awards.

On the field performances had been encouraging although the results had not always reflected this. Despite the disappointing conclusion to the season there was still much to celebrate and recognise.

The Second team were always destined to struggle after promotion the year before. Many of the players from that team became regulars in the first team, so the seconds were reliant on the next generation of promising youngsters. Special mentions were made to Dan Poole, Charlie Barriball, Josh Towl and Rob Bone who all put in impressive performances in senior cricket and offer much hope for the future.

The Second XI prizes though were garnered by the “veterans” in the team. Bob Powell led the batting stats with 183 runs at 26 per innings, while skipper Neil Tamblin led the bowling with 16 wickets at a shade under 19 runs each.

In a season where availability was a challenge and 11 players was a luxury, the captain’s player of the year was Tom Dunne, who was ever present as well as taking some match winning catches.

The first xi also struggled for runs and wickets but they were difficult to dismiss, leading to a lot of losing draws. The late season rally gathered steam with a couple of wins but faded resulting on relegation on the last day of the season.

The leading batsman was Josh Meadows with 300 runs at 25 per innings. The leading bowler was Hammy Kerswill with 20 wickets at 17 runs each, despite him being unavailable for the first half of the season.

The Captain’s player of the season was Darren Sambells who adapted to the role of stock bowler, often bowling long spells for few runs but without the wickets that he deserved. Darren was also presented with the most improved player award.

The John Jackson fielder of the year award was presented to Richard Hall, the safest pair of hands in a club that drop far too many.

The inaugural winner of the Beaver Gordon All rounder of the year was Billy Barriball who contributed 430 runs and 14 wickets across both senior league teams including the only league century of the season.

The Ladies enjoyed a more prosperous season resulting in promotion back to the top Devon division. Cathy Griffin continues to lead by example taking both the batting and bowling awards. The Ladies most improved player was Gillian Northey.

The final award of the evening, the Clubman of the Year was presented to Gavin Hall who continues his tireless work behind the scenes in maintaining the ground as one of the best turned out and attractive grounds in the county.

The club wishes to thank all members, sponsors and supporters for their contributions this season both on and off the pitch. We can’t do it without you.

The AGM will be held in the Village Hall on Friday 2^ndDecember at 8pm.

Gavin Hall receiving the Clubman shield from Nick Henderson

Presentation Night – Colts report

neiltamblin — Wed, 28 Sep 2011 13:20:26 +0000

A very successful season for Whitchurch Wayfarers Colts was celebrated at the recent presentation evening.

The Under 11s led by Gerald Whitehouse and Mark Trevethan finished half way up their league, with the focus more on technique and enjoyment of the game. The awards for the team were shared around with Nathan Ord, Isaac Staig, Matteo Pearce and George Andrews all going home with a trophy.

At the beginning of the season, it was touch and go whether the Under 13s would be able to compete, with a shortage of players and coaches. To finish the season well placed in the league and with a half share of the cup was a remarkable achievement and testament to the commitment of all involved.

The success of the team has been due both to some outstanding individual performances and excellent work by all players contributing to a great team effort.

The best batsmen and all rounder was Charlie Barriball who scored 605 runs and took 14 wickets during the season. The best bowler was Emma Jackman with 12 wickets. The standard of fielding was very high, but the award was presented to Josh Emptage for his valuable run saving throughout the season. The sportsman award was presented to Barney Tossell, for his commitment and enthusiasm throughout the season.

The under15s developed well as the season went on with most playing a leading role in senior cricket as well. The awards were shared around between Billy Barriball, Rob Bone, Ben Hodge, Josh Towl and Dan Poole, all of whom were regulars in the senior second XI and made valuable contributions.

Dan Poole was also presented with the club’s oldest trophy, the Beaver Cup, which recognises the improvement and development strides that he has made during the season.

The Pedrick cup for best colt was presented to Billy Barriball for the second time. Billy scored his maiden, senior league hundred this season and was a fixture in the first team.

Finally, the Crocker shield for junior clubman of the year was presented to Josh Meadows for his regular support at all the home colts matches during the season.

Anyone interested in joining Whitchurch colts should contact Kevin Freedman on 01822 852034. Coaches and players and always welcomed.

Full list of winners

Under 11s Batsman – Nathan Ord, Bowler – Isaac Staig, Fielder – Matteo Pearce, Sportsman – George Andrews

Under 13s Batsman – Charlie Barriball. Bowler – Emma Jackman, Fielder – Josh Emptage, All Rounder – Charlie Barriball, Sportsman – Barney Tossell

Under 15s Batsman – Billy Barriball, Bowler – Rob Bone, Fielder – Ben Hodge, All rounder – Josh Towl, Sportsman – Dan Poole

Pedrick Cup – Billy Barriball

Beaver cup – Dan Poole

Crocker Shield – Josh Meadows

Chairman wins his tie back

neiltamblin — Tue, 20 Sep 2011 20:26:47 +0000

The Chairman’s XI were comfortable winners of the annual final match played at Whitchurch in conditions more suited to Ducks and Drakes.

Batting first the club were soon in trouble as Freddy Frost (4 for 12) showed just how much he had been missed during the season. His accuracy was too much for both openers and then Doug Vernon was well caught in the deep by ever reliable Tom Dunne. Josh Meadows soon followed before Joel Heatley and Josh Vernon brought some much needed stability. Realising that caution was the order of the day they treated each delivery on its merits before Heatley was needlessly run out. This brought Billy Barriball to the crease who set about the bowling with some energy. With the score sitting at a scant 38 for 4 the club side were in serious danger of falling apart. Barriball (55) with eight well struck boundaries was the only club batsman to dominate the bowling. He was ably supported first by Vernon (14) and then Martin Credicott (17). Once they went normal service was resumed as the last two wickets went quickly. Of particular note was the demise of Marc Kerswill caught by Tamblin off the first ball of Aaron Churchill’s over. All out for 130 was probably at least 30 runs short.

The Chairman’s XI reply was played out in drier conditions but was more remarkable for the manner in which Jez Stokes and Aaron Churchill overcame the conditions. Starting slowly and offering no chances they made relatively short work of the target. Both Josh Vernon (0 for 18) and Gavin Hall (0-17) bowled accurately but with no joy. Once their overs ran out the subsequent bowlers were treated with some disdain as the opening pair romped to the target with both batsmen gaining well deserved 50’s.

Match reports Second XI (July/August)

neiltamblin — Sun, 04 Sep 2011 07:10:08 +0000

3rd September – Lewdown A

Whitchurch Seconds season closed in the gloom at Lewdown, with the young showing encouraging signs for next season.

With bad weather forecast, Whitchurch had no hesitation in asking their hosts to bat first. They struck in the first over, with a slow full toss from Sherrell being looped up to Tamblin at short leg.

Skuse and Butler than added 50 for the second wicket until Butler (27) dragged on a delivery from Sherrell (2 for 42).

Skuse continued to chase the score along completing a fine half century.

The introduction of spin to the attack changed the momentum of Lewdown’s innings. First Bone held one back to bowl Marais and then a flighted delivery saw Skuse well caught in the deep by Tamblin for 63.

With Lewdown 120 for 5, Whitchurch were right in the game. Against the twin spin attack of Bone and Barriball, runs were difficult to score. However, as the overs dwindled Tom Pengelley counterattacked on his way to a maiden senior and league 50. Pengelley was eventually out for 52 caught by Sherrell off Bone who closed with 3 for 45, his best league figures also.

Lewdown closed on 205 for 7 as the rain clouds rolled in.

After an extended tea break for rain, Whitchurch began their reply with the early loss of Dunne.

Powell and Bone batted sensibly against the accurate bowling of Butler (2 for 18). Whitchurch’s progress was steady if not spectacular. The arrival of Sherrell and Barriball to the crease advanced the scoring rate with 46 added for the 5th wicket. Barriball fell for 26 to Marais (2 for 25).

In the gathering gloom 17 overs were still left with Whitchurch on 110 for 5 and Jackman 23 not out. With more rain falling the skippers shook hands and called it a day.

27th August – Dartington & Totnes H

Whitchurch seconds entertained Dartington & Totnes on another soggy Saturday afternoon.

After a big effort to get the game played, Whitchurch lost the toss and were invited to bat first. The Darts bowlers found it hard work as the pitch was slippery, but runs too were hard to come by.

20 had been added for the first wicket when Alford was bowled by Colegate. Ben Powell soon followed for 13, LBW to Gornell (2 for 29). Steve Hodge then stuck around to anchor the innings but runs were still difficult to come by.

As Whitchurch tried to press the accelerator wickets fell. Griffiths (3 for 23) and Rusling (2 for 30) doing the damage. All the while Hodge remained until he was brilliantly caught by Gareth Colegate for 33.

The tail managed to see out the overs but 113 for 9 was 25 to 30 short of a competitive total.

Gareth Colegate led the run chase for Darts with a couple of early boundaries. However, the visitors didn’t have things all their own way as accurate and probing bowling from Josh Towl and Charlie Barriball kept the batsmen honest.

Towl (1 for 44) removed Jiha and then Barriball joined the party with 3 for 26. Tamblin also took a wicket and with 2 run outs effected by Freedman and Bone Darts were in trouble at 57 for 7.

The drinks break worked in Darts favour though as they found some composure and took the game away from Whitchurch. Gornell (37no) and Jarvis (19no) mixing some sensible batting with a few slogs saw their side home by 3 wickets.

20th August – Plympton 3rds H

Despite the morning downpours this game started on time. It was a game of 4 quarters as Whitchurch dominated the early overs of each innings before Plympton fought back in the latter overs.

The pitch was damp but Plympton elected to bat first. Whitchurch on paper had little recognised bowling, but still had Plympton in all sorts of trouble at 12 for 5 and then 21 for 6. Father and son combination of Nigel and Charlie Barriball doing the damage with 3 wickets each.

The Plympton recovery then started. Vince and Mortimer added 48 for the 7th wicket before Vince was caught on the boundary off Charlie by brother Billy. Charlie completing a 13 over spell with 4 for 45.

Mortimer continued his dogged resistance and found another ally in Havard. They added 90 for the 8th wicket as the game slipped away from Whitchurch.

Mortimer was finally bowled by Sherill (2 for 9) for a valuable 65. Havard soon followed for 26 as Plympton were dismissed for 161 with 1 over to go.

Whitchurch got off to a flyer in reply with Sherrill smashing 26 off 15 balls. Billy Barriball (31) and Credicott (17) had advanced the score to 73 for 1 before the customary Whitchurch collapse set in.

Having starred earlier with the bat, Mortimer was once again the catalyst for the game changing swing. He bowled a devastating spell of 6 for 5 from 9 overs, as Whitchurch crumpled to 87 for 8.

Youngsters Hodge and Jackman hung around long enough to get the score to the 100 mark, but that was a s far as it went as Mulberry (3 for 5) polished things off.

Whitchurch took 6 points from the game. The same number of those acquired by the first team who were en route to Whimple when the call came through that the game was off.

13th August – Kingskerswell A

There wasn’t much to shout about as the seconds travelled to league leaders Kingskerswell.

Asked to bat first, Dunne and Mansfield frustrated the bowling attack but were unable to advance the scoreboard. Noble conceded his first run off his 35^th ball, as Whitchurch reached drinks on 25 for 1.

Mansfield and Alford eventually added 61 for the second wicket. Mansfield, making a rare appearance struggled with a knee injury but made a valuable 39.

Then the collapse came. 73 for 1 became 79 for 8, as Hurrell ripped through the middle order taking 6 for 44. Elliott with 2 for 10 also chipping in.

Tamblin and Smerdon took their side to the brink of a batting point, but Tamblin was run out for 14 trying to retain the strike. Whitchurch all out for 98.

It was only a question of how long for ‘Kerswell to knock off the runs. The answer was 15 overs, as Etherington with 50 and Powell with 32 helped their side to 20 points and victory without losing a wicket.

6th August – Plymouth 4ths H

Plymouth IV’s probably woke up the next morning wondering how they let Whitchurch off the hook. Twice they had the home team well and truly on the back foot and both times let them off. Stand in captain Andy Alford bravely chose to bat and quickly saw his team in deep trouble as they slumped to 17 for 4. Kyruppo (3 for 25) steamed in and was just too quick. Tom Sherrell hooked him for a 6 in the first over but then was caught behind in the next over. Adrian Towl (37) proved to be the saviour as he and Alford (13) brought some calm to the proceedings putting on a patient if not uneventful 61 runs. Young Poole added a quick fire 13 to give Whitchurch a modest total of 119 by the time their overs ran out.

This shouldn’t have been anywhere near enough and at 42-0 Plymouth were cruising. Hughes (26) and Rothwell (27) were easing the visitors to a comfortable win. Firstly Tom Sherrell was rewarded for his patience by first snaring Hughes and then taking out the rest of the top order. The hero of the day was Doug Vernon (4 for 2) who bowled a ‘straight and accurate spell’. The Plymouth middle order simply couldn’t deal with him and, for want of a better word, disappeared as they collapsed from 80 for 3 to 88 all out; son Josh mopping up the tail.

With Cockington only picking up 1 point this leaves Whitchurch with a remote possibility of avoiding relegation. A long trip to table toppers Kingskerswell and several players unavailable leaves the team managers hoping that Vernon can weave his magic again.

30th July – Chagford H

After last week’s heroics against Torquay it was back to earth with a bump as Whitchurch 2^nd XI were beaten at home by Chagford. Put into bat first Whitchurch made a solid start after the early loss of Towl. Steve Hodge (31) and Bone (15) played with caution against the accurate bowling of Pitts-Tucker (4 for 37) and Moss (3-29). Picking up boundaries on a regular basis they moved the score along at a steady if unspectacular rate. When Bone went, well bowled by Moss, Steve Hodge was joined by Dougie Vernon who played with more dash quickly adding a couple of typically towering sixes. These two pushed the score along so that Whitchurch were looking good at 80 – 2. A double strike by Pitts-Tucker saw both batsmen go. Josh Vernon and Charlie Barriball edged the score along to pass the 100 mark. With 16 overs remaining and a score of 100-4 the time was ripe to accelerate to a challenging total. Instead Whitchurch collapsed to 133 all out. The experienced Andy Alford put in a tidy and responsible not out 20 but the rest of the lower order could muster only one run as they were comprehensively outgunned by Chagford.

In reply the Whitchurch bowlers all returned respectable figures as they asked lots of questions. Towl (1 for 40) had the early wicket of Whittingham but Chagford were able to build partnerships in a way that had evaded Whitchurch. Holland (not out 48) formed the backbone of a solid performance. In the end it was quite easy for Chagford but the young bowlers of Whitchurch could take some solace in the 5 wickets they managed to prise out.

23rd July Cockington A

This relegation tussle produced a splendid game of cricket with all results possible at the end.

Whitchurch lost the toss and were invited to bat first on a green pitch.

They made the worst possible start losing Ben Powell and Rob Bone in the first over. Doug Vernon and Bob Powell soon followed all to Stanlake (4 for 21), as Whitchurch slumped to 22 for 4.

Sensing that his side need to stabilise skipper Tamblin moved himself up the order. Josh Towl soon fell to Furze, which brought Josh Vernon to the wicket.

In a reprise of their epic stand against Paignton 3rds last season Vernon and Tamblin steadied the Whitchurch ship and saw off the opening bowlers.

As runs became easier to score, Whitchurch progressed. The 50 partnership was added in 16 overs and this had been extended to 69 when Vernon was bowled for 36 by the returning Furze.

Whitchurch then passed 100 securing their first point for 2 weeks, before Tamblin was leg before to Furze for 30. Furze completing his spell with 3 for 27.

The tail was marshalled by Macrae as Whitchurch were finally dismissed for 122.

On a pitch offering the new ball something and with variable bounce, Whitchurch were in the game with early wickets. The first came from a running mix up which saw a good through from Poole have Francis dismissed.

Macrae followed that up with another wicket in the same over as Cockington slumped to 6 for 2.

Nicholls (24) and Cassidy were looking well set until the skipper brought himself in to the attack. His first ball turned and Nicholls was either caught or stumped but out at the very least.

Tamblin then ran through the middle order, aided by catches from Vernon and Powell, to reduce the home side to 68 for 7.

Poole then got his name in the wicket column and another from Tamblin had Cockington at 72 for 9.

However, a fine counterattack form Cockington skipper Shaun Jarman kept the game in the balance. Tamblin followed 5 consecutive maidens to support his 6 for 19, but Jarman kept edging his side towards an improbable victory.

With 8 runs needed, Jarman lobbed the ball towards the grateful and safe hands of Dunne at square leg and Whitchurch had their victory.

16th July – Ashburton H

Cricket can be a cruel game. Whitchurch got no reward for their efforts to get this game played going down by 10 wickets and not even picking up a point.

After the overnight rain and continuing showers the game was in doubt, but the efforts of the skipper meant that the game could be started on time at 2pm.

Ashburton won the toss and had no hesitation in inviting Whitchurch to bat.

Dunne and Poole started solidly, holding out the new ball attack for 10 overs.

After both had gone Bone and Vernon upped the scoring rate. Doug Vernon buffing 18 off one over, to double the Whitchurch score.

Vernon eventually holed out for 26 and Bone soon followed for 15.

Tamblin and Derbyshire guided Whitchurch towards the first batting point, but Derbyshire fell for 13 with the score on 92.

Left with the tail Tamblin attempted to bring up the hundred but was caught on the fence hooking.

There was no further addition to the score as Whitchurch were dismissed for 94. Harvey, lambert and W coon with the wickets.

Cock and V Coon were determined to see Ashes home without losing a wicket but rode their luck along the way.

A bit more composure and experience on the field from Whitchurch would have seen a few wickets taken, but not altered the outcome of the game.

The afternoon was summed up when a stumping was ruled out for encroachment.

All of Whitchurch’s bowlers bowled well and made ashes bat 245 runs to knock off the required total. cock 32 not out and coon 53 not out.

9th July – Torquay A

The young guns of Whitchurch seconds gave as good at they got in a feisty encounter away at Torquay.

On a pitch that had been exposed to some heavy rain, Whitchurch won the toss and inserted the home side.

Billy Barriball got the early breakthrough removing the dangerous Hunt for 7. Murphy then struck assisted by a fine catch from Towl, as Whitchurch’s bowlers backed the captain’s decision and had Torquay struggling at 22-2 off 10.

Weston and Jack that got in to their stride adding 61 for the third wicket, before Weston was well caught by Dunne off Tamblin for 31. At drinks Whitchurch were still very much in the game.

Jack, now batting with a runner remained steady while Mcclaw (20) and Crookes (46) upped the scoring rate.

Towl then took a steepling catch in the deep to remove Nadar for 14 off Murphy (2 for 41).

As the overs ran out, Whitchurch were able to keep things fairly tight, preventing Torquay getting the huge total they craved. Jack was finally run out by his runner off the last ball for 95. Torquay closing on 248 for 7.

In reply, Whitchurch made a measured start without looking too troubled by the overseas player Nadar. After Nadar struck, Billy Barriball counter attacked with a quick fire 29 before holing out in the deep. Whilst unlikely to chase down the total, Whitchurch batted bravely in the face of some aggressive behaviour. Bone (15) and Towl (18) with the larger contributions.

As Torquay became more and more desperate and frustrated the temperature rose, yet still Whitchurch held firm.

The overs were running out, but so were the batsmen. Nadar finishing with 3 for 13 and Crookes 3 for 26, completing the job with just 13 balls left for Whitchurch to survive for a losing draw.

Match reports First Xi (July/August)

neiltamblin — Sat, 03 Sep 2011 13:09:11 +0000

3rd September – Ottery St Mary H

Whitchurch ended a disappointing season as they started with a loss. Overnight rain had left the Whitchurch House ground damp and a difficult proposition on which to post a meaningful total.

Batting first the home team quickly lost Doug Vernon to an inswinging yorker. Billy Barriball followed soon after before George Webb (25) and Ewen Smith (22) put together a careful partnership of 36. Both went fairly close together bringing together Martin Credicott (12) and Josh Meadows (23) who faced the accurate bowling of Johns (3 for 24) and Woodman (1-17). Progress was slow and the runs were coming at fewer than 3 an over. In an attempt to up the pace after drinks Meadows fell to a good catch by Clements. Bob Powell produced a bright and breezy 17 but as runs were garnered so wickets fell. Harrison returning for his second spell picked up 3 for figures of 5 for 59. The innings petered out on a meagre 142 using just short of the allocation.

In reply Ottery St. Mary set about their task in the knowledge that rain was coming. Ottery didn’t have it all their own way losing 6 wickets as they blasted their way to the total. Stand-in captain Nigel Barriball knowing that only a win would be good enough rang the changes with the bowling attack. The ever reliable Marc Kerswill was on in the 7^th over and his 3 for 32 was as good as it got. Catches were held but the total was too small to defend and Ottery weren’t giving any favours.

In the end the result was academic. Whimple, also haunted by relegation, picked up 9 points in a tight game against Halberton and that was enough to make them safe. The result means relegation for Whitchurch 1^st XI and a return to E Division cricket.

27th August – Plymouth Civil Service & Roborough (& others)

A heavy defeat away to Plymouth Civil Service has sent Whitchurch Wayfarers 1^st XI back into the relegation zone. With only one match to play and eleven points away from safety something like a miracle is needed to avoid the drop.

Earlier in the day it had looked so different. Batting first Civils’ Gaylard played with fluency punishing anything short racing to 26 in short order. Having only returned 6 dot balls he was then becalmed for 16 before Josh Vernon clean bowled him. Darren Sambells then took out the top order in an excellent spell that saw him return figures of 4 for 40. With the game reduced to 42 overs Civil were 82 for 5 at the half way stage and in some trouble. Man of the match Dave Bayliss played the pivotal innings. Coming in at number 7 he and Elsey put on an invaluable 50 runs. Kerswill (2-21) eventually snared them but not before they had made careful use of 17 overs. In the final flurry Dent (24) and Winsor (22) pushed the score up to just short of 200. Once again extras on 37 contributed the second highest score.

This total proved far too many. On a damp track and with bowlers who knew how to exploit the conditions 193 proved to be far too many. Despite having one of their strongest batting line ups of the season Whitchurch collapsed with only Billy Barriball showing any resistance. After the early loss of Smith he dominated a partnership with Hall taking the score to 47 before being caught for 27 off the bowling of Winsor. Sitting at 47 for 2 the visitors would have felt reasonably comfortable but within 6 overs they lost 5 more wickets and had slumped to 55 for 7; Winsor (5 for 9) and Bayliss (4-18) proving unplayable. Josh Vernon and Darren Sambells provided a brief flurry at the end but by then the game had gone.

20th August – Whimple A

The firsts had reached the Bearslake Inn when the call came through that the pitch was underwater and the game was off.

13th August – Halberton & SP H

For the first time this season Whitchurch 1^st XI find themselves out of the relegation zone after an important win against fellow strugglers Halberton. With an overcast sky, a muggy day and a damp wicket Richard Hall had no hesitation in asking Halberton to bat first. Their experienced opening pair of Sambrook (49) and Blake (34) played with appropriate caution. Both Dougie Vernon (1 for 39) and Darren Sambells (1 – 50) bowled with accuracy and venom but with little luck. The score crept along at snail’s pace reaching 63 without loss after 20 overs.

The introduction of Josh Meadows (3-38) brought about an immediate change with the wicket of Blake in his first over. He was quickly followed by Robbins well caught by Billy Barriball for a meagre 5 having scored a match winning century in the reverse fixture.

At 94 for 3 and the overs running out Halberton upped the pace. Coles (22), Chilcott (39) and Fever (23) all made useful contributions without really dominating. 39 runs came off the last 6 overs along with a few dropped catches that might worry the skipper. On the positive side extras were kept in single figures. Halberton closed on 179 for 6, a challenging total in the conditions.

Whitchurch’s reply was exemplary. Hall (47) and Smith (52) set the scene with a well paced opening partnership of 89. Billy Barriball (22) came in at number 3 and maintained the steady progress so that Whitchurch were comfortably set at 106-1 after 30 overs. There were to be no mistakes as first Dougie Vernon (19 off 12 balls) and then Josh Meadows (26 off 17) accelerated the home team to the winning line and a very useful haul of 18 points. With Halberton only gaining 6 points the two teams swapped places. With a run of good results under the belt the team will travel with good heart to Whimple.

6th August – Bridestowe A

Richard Hall winning the toss for a remarkable 12^th time had no hesitation in inserting Bridestowe on their own track. With Sambells (1 for 46) unable to find his radar Bridestowe got off to a flyer. A plethora of boundaries and extras saw them reach 50 without loss in the 9^th over. Jack Hatton (38) was particularly merciless on anything short and he was well fed. His was the top score of the day and it was a pity that he subsequently had to leave the game ill. At the other end Joel Heatley (2-51) bowled with accuracy and patience and was eventually rewarded when Hatton tried one attacking shot too many. Heatley and Meadows (1-23) oversaw a mini collapse as the home side went from 80 for 1 to 83 for 4 in the space of 2 overs. A fine run out by Nigel Barriball dismissed the dangerous Tremain before he had opened his account. At this stage Whitchurch were in the ascendency and started to set attacking fields. Heatley and Kerswill (2-16) worked in tandem and strangled the run rate as Mark Fogerty (32) and his son Tom (9) tried to consolidate. Taking the pace off the ball seemed to be the order of the day with batsmen frequently misjudging line and length. Neil Tamblin (3 for 31) helped finish off the innings as the home side reached 167 including a massive 37 extras.

Whitchurch had 51 overs to reach the total so the asking rate was low but, as Bridestowe had shown, batting wasn’t going to be easy and those extras were going to come back to haunt the visitors. Immediately both Tom Fogerty (4 for 54) and Binns (0-54) bowled a much better line offering the opening pair few scoring opportunities. Ewen Smith (21) played with few inhibitions and hit cleanly before he misjudged the first ball from Ewen (1-18). Billy Barriball (29) showed his class with some particularly beautiful straight drives as he dominated a partnership of 36 with Richard Hall. Martin Credicott (13) and Joel Heatley (29) then put on 18 before Martin was snared by Jutson (2 for 27). Jutson bowled the spell of the match with 15 straight overs including 6 maidens.

Meadows (28) and Heatley were putting Whitchurch back in control when Tom Fogerty came back for his second spell. Taking a wicket in each of his first three overs put tremors into the Whitchurch camp. Unfortunately for Bridestowe Jutson was running out of overs and the runs leaked from the other end and the finishing line crept closer. Both sides tensed and at 149 for 7 the game could have gone either way – those extras conceded were now causing real pain. Joel Heatley and Nigel Barriball (8 not out) showed their experience and calmed nerves taking the visitors to within a whisper of the total. Heatley’s long innings (72 balls) ended with the target in sight. Tamblin hit the winning runs with a lovely straight drive for 4.

30th July Feniton A

Skipper Richard Hall maintained his remarkable run of winning 11 out of 13 tosses this season and inserted the home side looking for early wickets and containment.

Sambells duly obliged with a wicket in the first over. 6 overs later he netted a second as Feniton looked in trouble at 28 for 2.

Bedford and Kingdon then added 59 for the third wicket when Bedford was out for 42.

The pitch was offering nothing for the bowlers and the outfield was very quick. Runs flowed quickly but wickets falling at regular intervals.

At the halfway stage, the innings could go either way with Feniton on 132 for 5. Meadows taking 2 wickets.

However, the wickets didn’t come and the runs flowed. 89 had been added for the 6th wicket when Kingdon fell to Tamblin for 83.

Pfieffer pressed on and in partnership with Pyle helped their side to a sizeable total.

As Whitchurch awaited the declaration, Feniton batted on passing 300 and allowing Pfieffer to complete his hundred. Feniton closing on 316 for 7, surely too many for any team to consider chasing.

Whitchurch top loaded the batting looking for a quick start with skipper Hall as the lynchpin. Though steady the runs didn’t come as easily as French and Pyle bowled a tight line.

Hall found an ally in Meadows (33) as they added 51 for the 3rd wicket, but the realistic target had already been revised to 211 for a losing draw.

Heatley and Hall shored things up, but the run rate for the losing draw was steadily rising towards 6 an over.

Hall was finally out for a composed 40 and after a quick fire 16 from Sherrel, Whitchurch were 124 for 6.

Heatley (26) and Powell counterattacked as Whitchurch made good progress towards collecting batting points.

As the overs ran out, Powell was joined by Kerswill. together they added 47 in 6 overs, including an effortless pull for six from Kerswill that had the locals scattering in the bar.

Kerswill finished 28 not out and Powell 31 not out, as Whitchurch closed agonisingly 4 runs short of the losing draw total on 207 for 7. They did pick up 8 points from the game though.

23rd July Yelverton H

The moorland derby went to the wire.

Yelverton batted first and overcame the early loss of Scott with a steady partnership between Chapman (13) and Brain (48).

At the midway point Yelverton were 76 for 2 and set for a challenging total.

The introduction of Kerswill to the attack changed the course of the game. With guile beyond his tender years he caused a lot of problems for the visitors.

A flurry from West (34) and Bennett (44) was curtailed as Kerswill spun his magic on his way to 5 for 48.

Yelverton were bowled out for 182 with 2 overs to spare. Heatley, Barriball and Webb the other wicket takers.

Whitchurch have struggled to chase down totals all season and thus drawing games they should have won. This looked like going the same way as Harrison (3 for 38) and Cunningham (4 for 37) had Whitchurch reeling at 52 for 6 after 25 overs.

George Webb got stuck in and found an ally in Barriball as together they added 45 for the 7th wicket.

Webb and Meadows (25) then added 53 for the 8th wicket.

When Meadows fell it was widely expected that Whitchurch requiring 27 off 4 overs would shut up shop and settle for the draw.

However, Webb had other ideas, launching consecutive sixes and completing his half century. Kerswill then joined the party with a pair of boundaries as the target came closer.

4 were needed off the final over with still those 2 wickets in hand. Whitchurch held their nerve Kerswill hitting the run for whit church to record their first win of the season.

Webb the hero and lynchpin ending on 60 not out.

16th July – Ipplepen A

In a pulsating match Whitchurch Wayfarers gave run away league leaders Ipplepen a real fright. The result was in doubt right to the end and a draw was probably a fair result for both sides.

Thirteen overs into the match though things were very different. Rain delayed the start before Ipplepen, put into bat, raced to 71 for the loss of just one, Abbott well caught behind by Credicott. By this time four catches had been spilled in a display of fairly ragged fielding. Darren Sambells and Ollie McCrae were bowling their hearts out but had to be mere spectators as their excellent efforts went without their richly deserved rewards. The introduction of Josh Meadows saw Tuckett (27) finally run out of luck as Gavin Hall finally showed how a catch should be taken. Richard Hall then changed both bowlers and the game sparked into life. Taking the pace off the ball and using experience and guile Kerswill (2 for 33) and Hall (2-26) knocked the heart out of Ipplepen as they slumped from 71-2 to 127-7 with catches finally being taken and no partnership able to take a foothold. Boon (29) and Thomas (11) restored some order but Whitchurch were by far the happier as they took the maximum 5 bowling points and a target of 168 to win.

Knowing how the top order had failed so far in the season Richard Hall and Martin Credicott started the reply in a cautious manner. With 44 overs in hand there was no rush and Thomas (1 for 20) and Abbott (0-43) were asking a lot of questions. The first chink occurred when a mix up saw Hall run out for 12. Ewen Smith has found runs hard to come by this season and he too rode his luck early on. It was to be a good day for the batsmen. Smith top scored with 34 but Billy Barriball (29) and Josh Meadows (23) made more than useful contributions as the score marched over the 100 mark. The difficulty was that the overs were running out and the asking rate moved nearer to 6.

While Billy and Josh stayed together the odds were swinging towards Whitchurch and 17 runs off one over of Wakeham (2-44) seemed to point the way to an unlikely victory. Unfortunately things fell apart the next over as both batsmen went to lbw’s. After that Mason (4-37) became the danger man and the lower order, for so long the saviours, couldn’t keep the chase going and, in the end, the visitors had to hang on as 130 for 3 became 149 for 9 in a blink of the eye.

9th July – Countess Wear H

At the start of the second half of the season Whitchurch entertained a Countess Wear team that beat them soundly on the first day. It was a different story this time round as Whitchurch continued their improvement with a well-earned draw and a nine point haul that keeps them in touch with safety. Not that it was all good news as once again the opposition opened with an imposing partnership that this time garnered 77 runs. Both Darke (60) and Davey (50) played with suitable caution against the tight bowling of McCrae (0 for 30) and Webb (3-56). At the half way stage Countess Wear had nearly 100 runs for the loss of only one wicket and a big score seemed to be on the cards. That they were held to 233 was down to a mixture of rash shots and good fielding by Whitchurch. Irish (42) and Jarvis (21) both threatened but were bowled when trying to hit out once too often. The tail couldn’t wag with any effect as Meadows (4-73) continuing his current sequence of good form and the returning Webb kept a lid on progress.

Dias, who with a remarkable 3 for 7 off his allotted 13 overs put to bed any chance of victory, was unable to repeat the first encounter as the Whitchurch batsmen showed much greater resilience. Captain Richard Hall (20) played another resolute and patient innings and just needed another batsmen from the top half to stay with him. Once again the team were rescued by the lower order. In particular Joel Heatley showed his all-rounder skills with a match saving 56 off nearly 100 deliveries. Protecting the lower order he saw off Dias and then, as the ball softened, scored freely to all parts of the ground. On the way he was helped with useful partnerships with Josh Meadows who bludgeoned a quick fire 18 before being run out, a more circumspect Nigel Barriball and experienced Bob Powell. A trip to table topping Ipplepen will be a stern test next week.

Deja Vu all over again

neiltamblin — Fri, 05 Aug 2011 21:46:11 +0000

Both teams won again!

The firsts had squeaky bum time away at Bridestowe. The home side were dismissed for 167 thanks to wickets from Tamblin, Kerswill and Heatley and then made their customary run chase the hard way. Contributions right down the order but the boys sneaked home by 2 wickets with 8 balls to spare. 19 points in the bag and a crunch game against Halbeton to come next week.

The seconds also fared well completed the double over Plymouths fourths. Batting first they batted throguh 46 overs for 119 for 9. Adrian towl the mainstay with 38.

In reply, Plymouth were cruising adding 50 for the 1st wicket and ahen being 80 for 3. Doug Vernon then ripped through with 4 for 2 off four overs, as Plymouth collapsed to 88 for 9. Then the rain came. After the deluge Josh Vernon wrapped things up for a 20 run victory.

Full reports to follow

Keep up the good work lads!

Horse Racing Night Report

neiltamblin — Sat, 30 Jul 2011 08:26:35 +0000

An excellent night was had by all at the club on Friday at the inaugural Whitchurch Horse racing night.

A track of 6 lanes was laid out divided into 15 squares, on occasion with obstacles in the route. The club’s resident and maths genius, Hammy, was in charge of the odds with Bob calling the horses home.

The first race was the Committee Cup and saw Cockney Rebel romping home.

Subsequent races were auctioned for owners, until the 5th race which was the Player’s Cup. Steady Eddy hadn’t made it out of the stalls, by the time Biased Umpire cruised home.

The final race was the Whitchurch National. Run under the cover of darkness, this was a closely fought race between Syrup Mirror and Mirror Syrup that had the crowd enthralled and the caller in a tangle.

As the bookies totted up their profits, the owners and punters retreated to the bar to lick their wounds, sell their horses to a French restaurant and hope for better luck next time.