Match Scorecard

Match Report

Phil Clarke puts Hillingdon in a spin

The 2nd XI moved to the top of TVL Division 5A thanks to a superb spell of off-spin bowling from Phil Clarke. In a top-of-the-table clash against Hillingdon 2nd XI, Clarke took nine Hillingdon wickets for 41 runs to lead Wooburn to a victory with just 10 balls to spare.



On a hot day at Wooburn, skipper Stuart Savage sensibly opted to bat first after winning the toss. The pitch looked good and, once again, in-form opener Angus Porter got the innings away to an excellent start in partnership with Derek Milsom. The pair added 105, before Milsom was bowled in the 30th over for a patient 34. Paul Cuthbert was dismissed soon after, but Porter continued and looked to be on his way to yet another century. Sadly, the hot conditions took the toll and he fell just short, bowled by Reid on 94. Youngster Chris Hall then showed maturity in making 25, and Savage hit one six in his 17 as Wooburn totalled 191-3 from their full 52 overs.



League leaders Hillingdon must have fancied their chances, but the Wooburn bowlers quickly gained control. Dave Small and Graham Dare restricted the early scoring, Hillingdon only reaching 30-1 from the first 15 overs, but it was Phil Clarke who did the damage. He came on in the 17th over and struck with his first ball. Hillingdon had no answer to Clarke’s spin and variation, and he ran through their batting line-up. He finished with the magnificent figures of 9-41 from 15.2 overs, as Wooburn completed a 52-run win.