Sidmouth III recorded a superb four wicket win over visiting Abbotskerswell II in a rain-hit match.

The visitors won the toss and opted to bat. Gary Turner and George House, the usual consistent opening bowling attack, once again gave the home side a great start.

Despite claiming just the one wicket between them they did pile the pressure on with great line and length, ensuring the run rate was kept low. Usual second team off spinner, Chris Collings was first change, alongside Toby Seldon. Collings was a little expensive, but picked up a brace of wickets, including the dangerous-looking visiting opener.

Seldon bowled excellent figures on a challenging wicket, deservedly picking up two wickets and returning figures of 2-21 from nine overs.

As the run rate began to increase Sidmouth skipper Graham Munday introduced himself to the attack and the move paid dividends as he claimed four wickets with the visitors losing their final wicket to Gater with the total on 209.

Harvey Sargent launched the reply in confident mood and passed 500 runs for the season before he was eventually dismissed for a superb 75, a knock that included ten fours and one six.

Rob Fowler proved the run chase with the serious impetus, striking a 54-ball 62 with nine four’s and two sixes.

As the weather decided to take a turn for the worse, a short shower interrupted Sidmouth’s chase. Once the players were back out on the field, three overs of play were lost and the target was reduced to 196 and George House and skipper Munday saw the side home.

Tomorrow the thirds are away to Ottery St Mary who sit second in the B Division table, one place above Sidmouth.