Reed 2nd XI stretched their lead at the top of SHCL Division 6 after another convincing win, this time away to Old Cholmeleians. After overnight rain Marcus Martin had little hesitation in inviting the hosts to bat upon winning the toss. The early signs showed what a good toss to win this was, as the hard new ball was misbehaving on numerous occasions, leading to Reed taking a firm grip of the proceedings from the outset. Youngster Jack Caine was first to strike as he bowled the Cholmeleians opener in only the 4th over. Pete Tidey also caused problems for the home side as he picked up 3 wickets before the returning Rupert Martin soon saw Reed in complete control with the score 28-5. Some resistance from the Cholmeleians middle order, which coincided with the ball getting older and going softer allowed the home team to edge towards three figures, but the introduction of Reece Fitzgerlad who again picked up a ‘2fa’ after a superb burst from Rupert Martin soon put an end to the innings for only 95. The balding paceman Martin took 4 wickets in this, his first game back after 7 months attempting to grow his hair in the warmer climes of Australia. In reply Reed’s openers Richard Johnson and Matt Bowles faced an equally tough task against the new ball as the pitch continued to misbehave. Both batsmen were circumspect to begin with before Johnson fell victim to the pitch, gloving the ball through to the ‘keeper. Bowles was looking more fluent and struck some powerful shots before he too was caught, this time to a ball that seemed to get stuck in the pitch for 14. Rob Lankester came in [...]