Clanfield Cricket Club’s first team earned a comprehensive 100-run victory against Railway Triangle’s first team in Division Five South East of the Hampshire League on Saturday afternoon.
The win was made even more special by a large crowd visiting the all-new South Lane Meadow cricket pavilion.
Clanfield batted first, and openers Mike Collins (31) and Matt Bradley built a 96-run partnership to get the home side off to a roaring start.
After Collins departed, captain Bradley continued to 85.
The skipper was well supported by Tom Wright (53), who smashed a quickfire half-century of his own.
Clanfield finished on a competitive 214 for six at the end of their allotted 40 overs.
The pressure was on Railway Triangle from the start of their run chase.
Clanfield opening bowler Nick Sawyer claimed early wickets on his way to impressive figures of two for 16 from six overs.
Fellow seam bowler Alex Graham was in fine form, taking three wickets for 33 runs.
Railway Triangle wicketkeeper Rich Foster scored 48 runs, but the chase was in vain.
Sean Swift (two for two) mopped up the last two wickets as the visitors were bowled out for 114.
Clanfield’s first team received the maximum 24 points and will travel to Cockleshell Community Sports Club to face Portsmouth Community’s first team on Saturday.
The photo on the right shows Clanfield opening bowler Nick Sawyer in his delivery stride.