CRICKET: LEAMINGTON CC fell to a disappointing defeat at Himley on Saturday, meaning they are still waiting on their first league win of the season.
Batting first having lost the toss, Leamington could only reach 146 all out in less than 43 overs – again failing to make use of the allocated 50 overs.
Openers Steve Dyer and Nathan Hooker both went to Adam Finch, putting Himley in charge – who maintained control throughout.
Captain Lee Hopkins provided something for Leamington to cheer about as he was at the crease making a patient 54.
He became the first of three victims to Elliot Hopkin though – who made inroads into the lower order.
A typical knock from last man Neil Smith (22) got Leamington to a below-par total.
Despite an early breakthrough, Leamington were unable to get back into the match.
Captain Greg Wright made 25, and middle-order batters Chris Boroughs and Nipun Karunanayake both fell to Nabel Asghar just shy of half-centuries.
However, victory was never in doubt for Himley who coasted to 147/4 and a six wicket win.
2ND XI
In contrast Leamington’s 2nd XI experienced a comfortable win at home to Himley.
From a fragile 65/6, Mohammed Dogar joined Jimbo Williams to turn the game in Spa’s favour.
The tea break saw Leamington total 222, with Williams undefeated on a fine knock of 86.
Leamington opened with Joe Midgley – a new recruit from Yorkshire – and Lee Credgington.
The opening bowlers failed to land early wickets as Himley cruised to 90/0.
But the game changed once Tim Smedley took the ball.
His left arm swing gained three victims and Himley folded, with Dogar also claiming three victims as Leamington dismissed their opponents for 156.
3RD XI
Leamington 3rds fell to a narrow three wicket defeat at home to Catherine De Barnes.
The home team mustered 169 on a testing strip, and that was not quite enough as Catney replied with 172 – 7 – victory gained in the last over as Leamington leaked too many extras.
4TH XI
In the reverse fixture, Catney 2nds eased to a 19 run win at home to Leamington Fourths.
After a slow start, Catney accelerated to 176/9 on a slow wicket – a testing target.
Only captain Jocky Wilson made a fist of the response, but his best efforts could only see Leamington to 157/9 in reply.
