Midsomer Norton seconds had much the better of things in their local derby at Timsbury winning comfortably by 63 runs in the Bristol and District League Division 1. Once again it was the experienced all-rounder Martin Cox who proved to be Timsbury’s nemesis with another dominant performance in the searing heat.
Batting first the visitors soon lost the dangerous John Carroll who was caught and bowled by Freddie Hosford who bowled another tight eight-over spell of 1-16. Thereafter Cox carried on his merry way, first in a 54-run partnership with Jon Ablett and then later with Reuben Hobbs. Cox was eventually dismissed for 67 but Hobbs (36 not out) and Ed Walker (28 not out) ensured Midsomer Norton finished strongly to total 186-4.
Mark Sage looked in good touch when Timsbury replied but once he had gone for 29 the innings slowly deteriorated. Cox followed up his batting effort with a spell of 3-15 and with Nick Potter taking 3-21 the home side were dismissed for a disappointing 123. Only Greg Passingham late on provided any resistance with 25.
Timsbury’s third team provided the highlight of the weekend with an outstanding eight-wicket win away to Bitton seconds in the Bristol and District League Division 9 East. The home side set a stiff target making 228-8 in their 40 overs thanks mainly to Shakil Malik (59), Amjad Mehmood (55) and Lewis Brooke (44). Matt Ball was Timsbury’s most successful bowler with 3-40.
The visitors’ response was outstanding. Openers Josh Tucker and Sol Thompson made hay in the sunshine before Thompson was run out for 51. There was no stopping Tucker, however, who finished unbeaten on a magnificent 121 as Timsbury reached their target with more than 12 overs to spare.
Malcolm Tucker