Massive title clash awaits North Devon CC

Just four games remain in the Tolchards Devon Cricket League and this weekend could be a defining fixture in North Devon’s bid to make an immediate return to the Premier Division.

Third-placed Torquay & Kingskerswell CC are the visitors and a win for North Devon would give them a very comfy cushion at the top of the division, with Bridestowe sandwiched by the two combatants this weekend.

A trip to lowly Tavistock on Saturday proved a tougher examination than form suggested, as North Devon toiled to a three-wicket victory. An unbeaten century from Rhys Davies helped Tavistock to a strong total 238/4 from their 50 overs.

An opening stand of 62 from Dan Bowser (34) and Reuben Windley (20) gave North Devon a decent platform and they were guided to victory inside 47 overs by a fine 73 from Roshan Lakmal and James Tyson’s 40.

After the Torquay clash, North Devon host mid-table Kilmington, travel to Hatherleigh on the penultimate weekend and complete their season with a visit from Thorverton on August 31.

In the B Division, Bideford/Littleham/Westward Ho! kept alive their slim promotion hopes with a five-wicket win at Bovey Tracey 2nds, a success set up by Jody Brown taking three wickets for 26 to limit Bovey to a total of 147/9. Four players scored in the 20s for BLW to reach their target inside 28 overs.

Braunton continue to lead the way in C Division East but the duo of North Devon 2nds and Barnstaple & Pilton are probably too far back to mount a promotion challenge in D Division East.

B&P slumped to a four-wicket loss at Ottery St Mary 2nds despite a stoic knock of 64 from Matt Newton, while North Devon 2nds lost by 27 runs at home to Shobrooke Park. An entertaining 82 from 71 balls by Richard Wild was the highlight performance for North Devon.

Braunton 2nds are just ten points behind leaders Cullompton 2nds in E Division East, they kept up their title hunt with a four-wicket triumph at Chardstock.

North Devon CC pictures from Amanda McCormack