Dorset at Whimple C.C on Sunday 11th June, 2006 won by 67 runs

Match 3 in the June heatwave – and Matt Thompson made it 3 out of 3 winning tosses! Devon chose to bat on a firm, true wicket and it was a lively time for the Dorset ‘keeper as his opening bowlers had difficulties with control. Thompson and Luke Tuckett watchfully played their part in kick-starting the scoreboard but Mr Extras outscored them both in the early forays. More concerning was Thompson taking a full toss on the toe, and although he continued his mobility was affected. Tuckett again looked in good nick, but was first to go, playing inside one from Edworthy straight after hitting the same bowler for 4 off his legs.  Matt Hickey joined Thompson and they established an excellent platform for the rest of the innings with a partnership of 91. Hickey is currently the master of consistency and this was his third successive score in the late 30’s or early 40’s…..but just when you hope he’ll really push on and get the big score he deserves there is a spectre at his feast! After  eighty minutes of chanceless accumulation he shuffled across one from the economical spinner, Collins, and was trapped lbw. Will Gater looked in command until he seemingly lost his balance playing over the top of a straight one and he was followed soon after by the luckless Henry Parkin who gave a return catch to the grateful Collins. With Thompson sedately holding one end together the scene was well set for James Toland to bring his qualities to bear upon the Dorset attack. However the first to feel the full force of his presence was his partner as they had a mid-wicket collision that was heard all around the ground. There was a clash of helmets and bodies as both were watching the ball and Thompson was pole-axed. Sportingly the Dorset players were more concerned with his well-being and the umpires duly called a dead-ball. The Devon skipper eventually made it to his feet and, still hobbling, was able to continue. He duly reached his half century and he and Toland got the run rate back up to 5 an over in the 38th. The final few overs’ assault was not quite the blitz expected as Toland got out, and then Miles Lenygon and Michael Collinge came and went before making any impact. Hugh McDowell is quite an astute batter though and he rotated the scoreboard well for Thompson to do most of the hitting at the close. After the “big collision” Thompson seemed to draw upon new reserves of energy and his fine unbeaten 85 was his highest ever score for Devon. The innings closed on 232 for 7 - Dorset being somewhat generous in the extras department with 47.Hickey and Alex Carr opened up for Devon and the once again accuracy and control were the order of the day. Carr bowled with his usual nagging length and tight line and made the breakthrough in the 8th over when Henry Parkin caught a stunner in the gully.

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