Matlock claim winning draw over Swarkestone

Swarkestone’s normally reliable batting deserted them at Causeway Lane where Matlock claimed a winning-draw and 17 points to Swarkestone’s nine.
Matlock bowler Steve Fletcher comes in to deliver during the T20 clash with Alfreton on Monday.Matlock bowler Steve Fletcher comes in to deliver during the T20 clash with Alfreton on Monday.
Matlock bowler Steve Fletcher comes in to deliver during the T20 clash with Alfreton on Monday.

Half-centuries from James Smith (76) and Kevin Leatherday (50), allied to Drage Thompson’s excellent unbeaten 40, steered Matlock to a challenging 225 for 6 at tea despite the attentions of Tom Knight who claimed 3 for 54.

Swarkestone’s reply faltered from the outset and only Jamie Guthrie (38) of the top-order batsman made any notable progress as Steven Chapman (3-29) and Peter Camm (3-71) bowled their side into a strong position.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

Swarkestone never really got on terms with the required run-rate but a good late knock from Matt Sanderson (43*) eventually brought them much closer and they closed on 197 for 7.

Matlock’s second XI had an even better day as they beat Denby by 32 runs.

Matt Haywood hit a fine unbeaten 80 as he helped his side to a total of 161-3, fellow opener Mark Burton also scoring well with 38.

Denby were bowled out for just 129 in reply, David Lander the main threat with 5 for 38 as Matlock claimed victory with around five overs to spare.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

The third XI had to wait until Sunday to see some action and were ultimately beaten at Butterley United.

The hosts were all out for 174, though Tim Braund (4 for 20) and Andrew Hawkmoon (4 for 51) both bowled well.

The thirds, however, were bowled out for just 73 in reply, the extras column providing most relief with 21 of the runs.

Bank Holiday Monday saw the first XI in action in the Premier T20 Cup at Causeway Lane.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

Facing Alfreton first, Matlock fell just four runs short in pursuit of the target of 130.

Things weren’t then so close against Alvaston & Boulton as the visiting side claimed a nine-wicket wim despite each side scoring 200 and 201 respectively with the loss of just one wicket each.

Alfreton then beat Alvaston to top the group overall.

Related topics: