Sidmouth enjoyed a tremendous weekend with success in both league and cup, writes Stephen Birley.

On Saturday Will Murray’s men brushed aside the challenge of Torquay, claiming 20 points thanks to a 168-run win and then on Sunday they eased their way through two Twenty20 matches at Knightshayes, Tiverton to book a berth at the Devon County Twenty20 Finals Day being held at the County Ground, Exeter on Sunday week (July 28).

The Torquay mauling owed much to a magnificent Liam Lewis century and then a ruthless all-round display with ball with wicket keeper Pete Randerson taking five catches!

It was Randerson who joined Lewis at the crease after the fall of early wickets and then pair put on 236 for the fourth wicket in just under 34 overs! Randerson‘s innings of 115 was eclipsed by that of Lewis who was finally out for magnificent 140.

On Sunday Exeter Lewis was again at his explosive best, thumping a superb 69 as Exmouth were beaten by nine runs.

Skipper Murray said: “The weekend went very well for us. Saturday’s performance from Pete (Randerson) and Liam (Lewis) was exceptional. We were a troubled 45-3 when they got together, but once into their stride they looked totally in charge. After tea, with a big total on the board, we were able to share the bowling duties around with half an eye on the following days T20 engagement.”

As for Sunday’s performance, Murray said: “Sunday was a great day all round and I’d like to think we produced the sort of cricket that then gorgeous weather at Knightshayes deserved. Again we saw a fabulous knock from Liam who, when he is in that sort of mood, can take any attack to pieces. They (Exmouth) made a great attempt at then run chase and there were the odd moments when we didn’t have control, but we got the job done in the end.”

Tomorrow Sidmouth travel to the Maer ground to lock horns once again with Exmouth and Murray says: “This is a massive game for both teams in terms of our respective ambitions with regard to the Francis Clark Premier title.”

On team news Murray says: “It’s set to be a slow and dry wicket so we will be going with a second spinner and that means Dom Bess replaces Harrison Jones for this particular encounter.”