Ampthill must have regretted opting to bat first as Reed’s bowlers revelled in the sunshine, reducing them to 47-8 after 23 overs. The early damage was done by the opening pace attack of Ed Wharton (3-20) and Jack Tidey (2-15). both bowlers repeatedly beating the bat and tying down the batsmen. There was no respite from Tom Greaves and Zac McGuigan, who took a wicket apiece, with the latter also exacting a sharp run out when the batsman momentarily left his crease. With four ducks in a row the home side were in absolute disarray.
Skipper, Will Sneath, and keeper, Warwick Bradfield then showed grit and determination to hold out for a further 22 overs, virtually doubling the score in the process, until the latter was brilliantly run out by Rob Lankester. Toby Fynn immediately skittled the last man in, leaving Ampthill 91 all out.
It took Reed just 18 overs to pass their total, with Ed Wharton again the destroyer racing to 32 with three boundaries and two maximums. Zac McGuigan (11) and Rob Lankester (22) kept up the momentum until both were dismissed with the score on 71.Thus it was left to Matt Sampson (20 not out) with some text book drives and a towering six to finish the game with the loss of only 3 wickets.
Reed have now won 7 of their 8 games and move up to second with fellow high fliers, Hoddesdon, visiting the Green next Saturday for a chance to catch Shenley Village at the top of the table.
Match Report submitted by Peter Wholley.
