After weeks of rain, the sun was finally shining, the pitch was finally dry, and top of the league Falkland Development XI were ready to take on their next opponents; West Reading CC 3rd XI.

Falkland lost the toss and were put in to bat. Opener Matt Richardson seized his opportunities, batted patiently, and earned an admirable 148, including sixteen 4’s and nine 6’s. Matt was supported throughout the rest of the 40 overs by the younger members of the team and Falkland posted 232 all out, with only 3 balls remaining, a healthy total and one that could make for a closely contested second innings.

But closely contested it was not to be. Opening bowlers Matthew Bond (2-27 from 7) and Michael Robinson (0-26 from 6) set the tone from the outset, paving the way for the first change bowlers to take over. West Reading were kept well below the required run rate from the start, and Falkland Development debutant Oscar Moore saw his chance to make his mark taking 2-23 from just 4 overs. But, not to be outshone by the youngsters, medium pacer Kevin Smith, consistently finding a great line and length, took a fantastic 6-17 from just 4.5 overs, finishing the West Reading innings for just 92, and within 22 overs.

Falkland Development XI march on, taking maximum batting and bowling points from the game. With the next targets in their sights; next week’s away fixture against Mortimer West End 2nd XI, we look forward to more sunshine, and more outstanding cricket from such an exciting team.

Pictured, Kevin Smith (6-17) and Matt Richardson (148)