The self-styled ‘Saviour’ (a.k.a. Tom Greaves) returned from his honeymoon to mastermind Reed’s thumping of Ampthill. Having been put in, Ed Wharton showed commendable restraint as well as controlled belligerence in compiling a well worked half-century. On his dismissal, James Heslam took over the anchor role gradually accelerating as the overs ticked by to amass a match-winning 83. They were supported by some useful cameos from Rob Lankester (22), Tom Greaves (18), Stuart Smith (22) and Karl Ward (17*).
A score of 244-8 seemed above par on a wicket and outfield affected by the overnight rain and indeed it proved so as Ampthill were blown away by Reed’s sharpshooting attack. At first Beds’ opener, Nick Barden, blitzed 37 mostly in boundaries, but when he was snaffled by Stuart Smith off Ed Wharton (2-38), the rot set in. Toby Fynn had already continued his prolific wicket taking start to the season with 2-19, which was followed by Jack Tidey (3-16) and Tom Greaves (2-18). It was left to Karl Ward to complete the rout by ending an obdurate final wicket partnership in his first over as Ampthill were skittled out for 99 in 25 overs, thanks to some accurate bowling supported by another fine catching display, including 3 for keeper Sean Tidey and 2 for James Heslam.
More a fine team effort then, rather than divine inspiration, as Reed moved up to 3rd in the Championship.
Report submitted by Peter Wholley.
