JASON Jakeman’s heroics proved in vain as Leamington CC slipped to a four-wicket defeat away at Tamworth.
Jakeman smashed 70 runs with the bat and then recorded figures of 5-34 with the ball in a losing effort at Hints Road.
Leamington managed 157 all out after winning the toss and elected to bat as hosts Tamworth reached the required target for the loss of six wickets in 37.5 overs.
The result means Leamington sit sixth in the Birmingham and District League Premier Division Two table.
Both of Leamington’s openers failed to reach double figures as Harrison Smith (9) and Jonathan Wigley (1) both fell to leave the visitors on 18.2.
Only three batters went beyond single figure scores – Jakeman (70), Will Richardson (10) and Shailan Srikanthan (12 not out).
Jakeman lasted 117 balls at the crease and hit 10 boundaries en route to a half-century before he fell to the bowling of Ed Smith (2-37).
Riley Ward (4-47) did the damage with the ball while J W Rudge (2-26) and Tom Smith (2-34) took two wickets apiece.
Leamington posted 157 all out as Tamworth made a strong start to the run chase courtesy of opener Daniel Baker (46).
Tamworth’s top order put the home side in command as Alex Cappelluti (47) and Jacob Flower (23) put the visitors well ahead of the required run rate.
Jakeman (5-34) took all but one of Tamworth’s wickets as Tom Randle (1-24) claimed the other scalp.
Ward (25 not out) guided Tamworth to victory inside 38 overs despite Jakeman’s dazzling late spell with the ball.
Leamington are next in action against Wolverhampton on Saturday, June 6 with play to begin at 12pm (midday) at Arlington Avenue.
