WESTBURY & District CC 1st XI recorded their first win of the season in the WEPL Wiltshire Division with a five-wicket victory over Burbage & Easton Royal 2nd XI after a rain-affected contest at Westbury on Saturday 16th May.
After winning the toss and electing to field, Westbury produced a disciplined bowling display to restrict the Burbage batsmen. Richard Oakley struck early with the wicket of James Wheeler before Fraser Moore removed both Craig Simmons and Jonathan Chandler.
Adam Alger also claimed a crucial wicket just as the forecasted rain arrived to leave Burbage on 66-4 off 18.4 overs. Persistent light rain meant that play was stopped for over two hours and when play was able to resume the match had been reduced to 27 overs per side.
Jake Benson anchored the innings for Burbage with a patient unbeaten 33, while Tom Wallbridge added 14 not out, but Westbury kept the scoring under control throughout. Some tight bowling spells from Tom Lucas and Garic Hopkins backed up by sharp fielding meant that the Burbage batters were unable to hit any boundaries after the restart and finished 110-4 off their 27 overs.
Westbury lost overseas batter Javon Grosvenor early for just two runs, but contributions throughout the order kept the hosts in command. Fraser Moore played positively for 16, while Adam Alger added 15 and Tom Lucas 17, before Dan Gill steadied the innings with an unbeaten 17 not out.
The standout knock came from Luke Dilena, who guided Westbury home with an excellent unbeaten 33 from 29 balls, including six boundaries. Despite a classic Westbury wobble the home side reached their target of 111-5 from 20 overs to seal a comfortable win and claim much needed maximum points.
On Saturday 30th May, Westbury 1st XI has a big local derby against Warminster 1st XI. This will be the annual Ex-Players Day, so we encourage any ex-players to come, reminisce and share stories while supporting the current generation. Westbury and District Cricket Club creates a welcoming environment for all, so everyone is always welcome to come and enjoy the best beer garden in Westbury while watching the cricket.
