(Dorset 2) Hugh McDowell and Paris Pinney took over from Hickey and Carr and Devon’s tight grip on the Dorset runrate continued. Pinney, struggling with injury, was forced to come off after a couple of overs, replaced by the “offies” of JJ Debenham. When Luke Tuckett took a good catch off McDowell in the 15th over, Dorset were 40 for 2 and well behind the clock. Miles Lenygon replaced McDowell and immediately settled into a good rhythm. Collins and Crowther for Dorset played the two spinners with patience, Crowther in particular taking an increasing liking to Debenham. Lenygon was proving awkward for both batters though and he broke the partnership when McDowell caught Collins at deep mid-on. The left-armer struck again in his next over with a good caught and bowled – 80-4 in the 27th over. Kellerway joined Crowther and they put on 48 in 6 overs of hitting that posed some momentary problems for the Devon lads. Carr replaced Debenham and although he too was not spared from the punishment he had the last word when McDowell held another fine catch to dismiss the dangerous Crowther. Michael Collinge replaced Lenygon and bowled Nicholls with his first ball. His legbreaks and flight consistently troubled the batters and in his next two overs he caught and bowled Kellerway and ‘keeper Thompson caught Lowe. When McDowell had House caught by Will Gater at deep mid off Dorset were 151 for 9 in the 40th over. However, any hope that Devon had of mopping up the last wicket were scotched as Wilson and Edworthy coped admirably. The Dorset innings closed on 165-9 with Devon winning comfortably by 67 runs. Even at 232 Devon could and should have got more runs with no one really “cutting loose” at any stage. The characteristic mid-innings stall against spin was less evident in this match which was an improvement, but against Hampshire in the next game those 30+ additional runs on offer will be vital. The bowling and particularly fielding were up to the next level from the Gwent game and having three variations of spin is proving a real bonus. That lull in intensity in mid innings when Dorset were putting bat to ball was a good challenge and served as a timely reminder that the balance of power in matches can change rapidly. Eight of the nine wickets to fall were catches, however, and Devon snapped up virtually everything that came their way1. For Matt Thompson, Captain Fantastic, it was one of those days – the full 90 overs at the crease batting and keeping, struck on the toe twice, mid-wicket collision, best ever score for the county....inspirational stuff!! Good luck in the competition to Dorset who were major contributors in making the contest a friendly and sporting occasion. Finally, very many thanks to our hosts at Whimple Cricket Club for their excellent hospitality and tireless labours all afternoon which added considerably to an all-round memorable day.                                         Home