Ashburton first team (second in the league) travelled to play table topping Dartington and Totnes first team in C Division West on Saturday.
Skipper Ash Berry lost the toss on what proved a very challenging pitch to bat on. Runs were extremely hard to come by and wickets fell regularly as the Darts bowlers all bowled excellent lines and lengths. Only Berry (23) and Chris Pascoe (28) stuck around for any length of time as Ashes were all out for 83 after 39 overs.
Ashburton needed a good start with the ball to have any sort of chance but struggled to hit their areas initially and Darts raced to 40 fairly quickly. Once the bowlers tightened up their lines and lengths run scoring became tough for Darts too and Will Coon (8 overs, 0 for 15) was particularly frugal. However with plenty of time to chase such a low total the opening pair of Jacobus Snyman (35no) and Chris Cook (28no) could afford to take their time and the target was passed after 25.3 overs.
After the game skipper Berry said "Not a good toss to lose, but Darts bowled well. Credit to our bowlers for taking it that deep. Lessons learned and we look forward to travelling to Plymouth next up.".
Ashburton second team entertained Chudleigh seconds and also lost the toss and were asked to bat on a tricky wicket.
A disappointing batting performance resulted in them being bowled out for just 72 and it could have been worse but for spirited efforts from Jack Churchill (14) and Jerry Crouch (11). Youngster Freddie Harvey also did a great job for the team facing 34 balls for his 3 not out. Chudleigh skipper Andy Robinson taking 4 for 19 for the visitors.
In reply Chudleigh were reduced to 25 for 5 as Robin Lambert (8 overs, 3 for 16) and Marcus West (8 overs, 1 for 17) bowled good spells. A superb direct hit run out by Toby Pascoe accounting for the other wicket. That was as good as it got for Ashes as Robinson capped a good display with 22 not out to see his side over the line with over 15 overs remaining.
Chris Pascoe who top scored for Ashburton first team with 29 on Saturday
Jack Churchill who top scored with 14 for Ashburton second team on Saturday (credit Julian Preston)
Robin Lambert (3 for 16) celebrates one of his wickets for Ashburton second team on Saturday (credit Julian Preston)