KENILWORTH suffered a batting disaster at home to Nuneaton, who claimed an eight-wicket win in Warwickshire County Cricket League Division One.
Liam Benn was the biggest beneficiary of the host’s downfall, claiming six wickets for just 18 runs conceded, as Nuneaton only required 12 and half overs to surpass Kenilworth’s total – who remain inside the relegation zone.
After Nuneaton won the toss and put Kenilworth into bat first, openers Pete Magafas and Connor Shingler both struck 19 each prior to their dismissals, but that was about as good as it got for the hosts.
The remaining batsmen added just 13 runs between them, aided by 15 extras, to finish on 67 all out after a disastrous first innings.
It required a miracle to rescue the game from that point, but Nuneaton opener Martin Cox (32, not out) was keen to ensure the contest was over as quickly as possible.
Steve Rhodes claimed a wicket, whilst Connor Shingler ran out Kieran Andrew (10), but it served as mere consolation as Nuneaton raced to victory.
They visit Aston Manor on Saturday (12:30pm).
Kenilworth Seconds had better fortunes when winning on the road against Leamington Khalsa Seconds, winning by 63 runs in Division 8.
Winning the toss and batting first, Kenilworth top-scored through Matthew Casey’s 65, following solid starts from openers Mark Stranks (29) and Daniel Horner (36), taking their side to a 243 total – with Kenilworth all out from the final ball.
Hardip Jheeta was in fine form for Leamington, taking 6-43, before Khalsa got off to a solid start to their innings through the opening duo of Mayank Singh (30) and Harnek Sidhu (34).
Mick Gill (34), Harinder Deol (24) and Vishnu Chaithanya (14) added late runs for Leamington, but they were unable to atone for a middle-order collapse which ultimately led to their defeat – after being bowled out for 180.
Kenilworth’s second string will be confident of another victory going up against Bulkington on Saturday (12:30pm) – who are currently unbeaten in their last two games.
The third XI however were unable to find a way past Winchcombe Seconds, falling to a six-wicket defeat in Cotswold Hills League Division Six.
Despite Anthony Kerry (26) and Daniel Roden (15) building a 58-run partnership before the former’s departure, and a solid contribution by the middle order, Kenilworth were all out for 136 in the 40th over.
Jonathan Lewis (65) and Anthony Parker (30) also struck up a partnership of 58, as Winchcombe claimed victory in the 36th over.
Kenilworth look to pick themselves up when visiting Bearley on Saturday (1:30pm).
