Biddenham – NVC

Reed carried over their form from their League victory by advancing a stage closer in the National Village Cup, thanks mainly to a blistering 131 by Baz Curtis off only 124 balls.

Despite being delayed by a rain shower, Biddenham’s bowlers continued to be terrorised by Curtis as he thumped 4 sixes and 15 fours leaving the hosts on 238 for 4 off their 40 overs.

Solid support was found in James Heslam (20), Chris Jackson (30) and a crucial last-minute 30* in 24 balls by captain Simon Jackson. D.Morrish (7-0-35-2) and S.Edmonds (7-1-34-2) were the wicket takers.

After tea, Biddenham began positively as R.Fone (32) and D.Morish (46) tested the Reed openers, but it took some nagging pace bowling by William Clarke (9-1-22-2) to force the breakthrough as Ben Bowles clung to a crucial chance at mid-on.

The number three quickly followed to a rising delivery by Clarke, also marking one of wicket-keeper Simon Jackson’s three catches during the innings. Once Peter Tidey (8-0-31-3) had D.Morrish bowled in his third over, the batting order crumbled, allowing him to pick up a further 2 wickets. 2nd XI opener Jim Allsopp (7-1-29-3) also contributed healthily with three wickets and some testing seam movement, showing positive signs for the club’s future seam attack.

Biddenham’s effort ended in the 34th over as opener Berks (6.4-0-25-1) promptly took the final wicket leaving them languishing on 147 all out. Reed are due to play the next round against St. Margaretsbury on 8th June.

The match ball was kindly sponsored by Hardcastle-Burton Chartered Accountants of Royston.