Wake-up call for Leamington

Having been invited to bat first at picturesque Shipton-under-Wychwood, Leamington’s 1sts made a solid start with the opening pair of David Bailey (36) and Michael Balac putting on 107.

Balac went on to compile a positive 72 as he was joined by Lee Hopkins, who contributed with 40.

Leamington, however, lost three quick wickets and finished on 218 for six.

In reply, an early wicket for Jon Allcock got Leamington off to an excellent start, but the tide soon turned as Shipston captain Simon Hole led his side to a comfortable victory with an unbeaten 108.

Hole was ably supported by Wood (51 not out off 39 balls) as Shipton reached their target with seven wickets and five overs in hand.

An under-strength 2nds suffered a 32-run defeat against Southam’s first string.

Batting first, Southam reached 226 for six in their 45 overs. Highlight of the innings was an aggressive 82 from Luke Nelly which included six sixes. He was supported by skipper Chris Bramley (51), Jordan Calcutt (34) and Coel Mahoney (39).

In reply, Southam’s Greg Neale produced an excellent spell of seam bowling to reduce the Spa men to 18 for three off 12 overs.

Rob Wollaston (34) and captain Dave Hawkes took the score to 100, with Darrel Williams adding a further 40 runs with his skipper.

However, in a final flurry of runs and wickets, Spa were dismissed for 194, with Hawkes out for a run-a- ball 91.

Southam’s 2nds cantered to victory against Leamington 4ths after restricting their hosts to 156 all out.

Only Stuart Budd (34) got to grips with the bowling of J Kemp (4-39) and Ian Ward (3-18).

In reply, Southam reached their target in only 25 overs thanks to an unbeaten 81 from Rob Heath.