Thanks to Graeme for this latest report from Ventnor Cricket Club. Ed
Wilson produced personal best league figures of 6-10 in an astonishing spell which at one point saw him take five wickets for just two runs as the visitors failed to cope with his ability to swing the ball at pace.
The New Forest side, who dismissed Havant for only 50 the previous week, were the victims of an inspired bowling and fielding display as Mark Holmes (1-19) and the returning Tom Friend (3-39), supported by two terrific slip catches by Sean Willis and Hugh Calloway, ripped through their top order before Wilson did the rest of the damage.
Ventnor’s batting has let them down in recent weeks and although Friend with 20 and Henry Bartlett (16) set the Islanders on their way, the loss of three quick wickets meant that 79-6 they were grateful to Neil Westhorpe’s unbeaten 21 for seeing them across the line.
This excellent victory was not enough to lift Ventnor off the foot of the table but will surely give them a lift ahead of Saturday’s visit to Havant.
Ventnor in successful run chase
Ventnor’s second team clinched their third Hampshire League Division 1 win of the season with an impressive five wicket success at Ellingham on Saturday.
After the home side had amassed 253-5 from their 50 overs, Barker making 94, Ben Woodhouse’s team set about their task in a positive fashion. Jacobus Hooneberg led the way with a fine knock of 70 and in tandem with fellow opener George Niemiec (42), gave their side a solid base in a partnership of 117.
When they departed in quick succession, it was a third wicket stand of 80 between Martin Blackman who made 43 and Ben Herridge which proved decisive, the teenager going on to hit a fluent 59 not out as Ventnor won with four balls remaining, Toby Corbin contributing 15 in a tight finale.
Ventnor welcome Hook & Newnham Basics II to Steephill on Saturday at 1pm.
Third team back in action
Ali Cotton’s side travel to Petersfield III on Saturday.
Sunday knock out at Pompey
Ventnor are on the road on Sunday with a first round tie at Portsmouth in the Southern Electric T20 Plate competition.
