Cricket
Spa hold on at Himley

THE new cricket season started at the weekend but the opening round of fixtures in both the Birmingham League and the Warwickshire League were decimated by the wet weather.

Leamington were one of a handful clubs who did see some action and they returned with a draw from their Birmingham League Premier Division clash at Himley on Saturday.

Despite early pressure from Young and Jabarkheil, Leamington were unable to capitalise on winning a vital toss and let the initiative slip through some poor fielding and bowling.

The Himley pair of Tranter (69) and Wright (64) took full advantage and put on an excellent 151 for the first wicket before Wright was stumped by Balac off the bowling of Williams.

Tranter soon followed off the bowling of James Uddin but Round (38no) and skipper Wedge (44no) continued the excellent start which allowed the hosts to declare after 46 overs on 243 for 2.

In reply, despite losing Michael Balac early, David Bailey (41) and debutant Sam Cheshire (41) put on 74 for the second wicket to keep Leamington in the game.

Despite losing both in quick succession the returning Luke Radford (65) and James Uddin (33) maintained a steady run rate despite the fading light.

But the target remained just out of reach and, combined with the excellent bowling of Smith (14-1-65-6), Leamington settled for a losing draw as they finished on 215 for 8.

Leamington entertain Shrewsbury at Arlington Avenue this Saturday (12 noon).

Kenilworth Wardens’ opening Division One clash at home to Dorridge was washed out and they will be hoping for better luck with the weather when they are due to visit Wombourne this Saturday.

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