Westbury claim crucial victory

Westbury & District CC 1st XI secured a vital victory, overcoming Burbage & Easton Royal 2nd XI by 34 runs in a hard-fought contest.

Knowing the importance of the fixture if they want to avoid relegation, Westbury produced a determined all-round performance to claim the maximum 20 league points in a result that could prove pivotal as the season enters its final stages.

After winning the toss and electing to bat first, Westbury posted a competitive 254. Dan Gill anchored the innings superbly with a patient 57 runs from 99 balls, while Tom Lucas provided the late acceleration scoring 24 from just 12 deliveries. Kane Scott 23, Adam Alger 15, Matt Greatley 28 and Javon Grosvenor 29 all made valuable contributions to ensure Westbury reached a challenging total despite losing regular wickets.

Burbage began their reply positively but Westbury’s bowlers steadily wrestled control back. Tom Lucas led from the front with an outstanding spell of 4-29 from his 10 overs, breaking the heart of the home side’s batting line-up.

In the absence of more experienced seamers, it was Rory White who stepped up superbly, ripping through the Burbage middle order with a spell of fast bowling. His pace proved too much for the batters, as he claimed four wickets to put Westbury firmly in control.

Dan Gill also struck twice with the ball. Javon Grosvenor and Matthew Greatley chipped in with a wicket apiece as Westbury maintained pressure throughout the chase.

Despite some late resistance, Burbage were eventually dismissed for 220 in the 43rd over, handing Westbury a deserved victory.

The win gives Westbury a huge boost ahead of another important run of fixtures. It was a disciplined team performance with key contributions across the batting, bowling and fielding, exactly what was required in a must-win encounter.

Report: Jon Wills