MAY 29, 2009

DEVON'S U17 girls' team set the standard for the rest of the season with a 57-run win over last year's national champions Somerset.

   Devon batted first at Budleigh Salterton against a strong Somerset bowling attack that was backed up by sharp fielding.

   Giselle Ansley in two important partnerships with Nicole Richards and Jodie Dibble, steered Devon to 151 for six in 45 overs. Ansley's innings of 71 was scored off 84 balls.

   Somerset struggled against Devon's varied attack of eight bowlers. Two superb catches accounted for Somerset's main batters. Keeper Amara Carr took an outstanding diving catch to her right and Nicole Richards claimed a sharp caught-and-bowled to dismiss Somerset's top scorer, Frances Wilson.

   The wickets were shared around with Rebecca Piddock taking three for six and Tessa Dibble two for 13 as Somerset were bowled out for 94 in the 40th over. Rebecca Donohue took three catches.

   Ansley won the player-of-the-match award for her 71 runs and tight bowling spell of one for 11 in six overs at the start of Somerset's innings.