Sandford setting the early pace in Devon cricket

Despite very disappointing early summer weather, the Tolchards Devon Cricket League has got away relatively unscathed. In week seven, heavy showers caused minor delays to several games, but not enough to thwart win or lose conclusions for local teams.

The Premier Division is beginning to look like a two-horse race at the top and bottom. Sandford’s 118-run win at Cornwood keeps them four points clear of Bradninch and Kentisbeare, who easily brushed aside a struggling Bovey Tracey by 8 wickets.

Bovey are now just one point ahead of bottom club Plympton, who were beaten in a similar (9 wicket) fashion by Exeter.

Paignton’s hopes of a top-half finish took another jolt, with a 6-wicket loss at Sidmouth. Young opener Brenton Pedley compiled his maiden 1st XI half century (51) in an opening stand of 99 with Noah Wright (40). But Paignton did not kick on, finishing on 178-9. Sidmouth reached their target, losing only four wickets, inside 30 overs.

The final Premier Division fixture saw Exmouth cruise to an 86-run victory at home to Heathcoat, captain Finlay Marks hit an unbeaten 51 for the Maer men, while Peter Turnbull took four wickets with the ball.

North Devon continue to lead the way in the A Division after a high-scoring victory at Kilmington. Joel Whelan’s magnificent 184 not out helped the home side to an immense total of 352-4 but North Devon’s beleaguered bowlers were rescued by a superb batting reply.

Tom Ansell (128) and Jack Moore (130) put on 202 runs for the second wicket and solid knocks from James Tyson (32) and Roshan Lakmal (29 no) got them over the line with ten balls to spare.

Bridestowe are just four points behind in second place following a comfortable 93-run victory over struggling Tavistock. Jack Hatton (53) and Kian Burns (52) piled on 110 runs for the opening wicket and a rapid 67 from Billy Searle took Bridestowe to a total of 271-9.

Tavistock’s target was revised down to 252 and, apart from a determined 72 from David Manning, Bridestowe’s attack was too good for the visitors, Ethan Guest taking three for 21.

Stoke Gabriel, Barton and Cullompton are leading the march in the B Division, with Chudleigh still seeking their first win down the bottom.