Sidbury hosted Welsh touring side Whitchurch in a rare international match at The Millfield.

Conditions were ideal for batting thanks to combined efforts from apprentice groundsman Archie Rowe and the expertise of Marcus Bennett.

Sidbury batted first, however never really got out the blocks, as the opening partnership of Ben Pollard and Bennett were both dismissed after five overs with just 27 on the board.

The Sidbury ship was then steadied by the pairing of James Powell and Josh Reed. Powell, making his Millfield debut, helped himself to a confident 20, demonstrating his textbook cover drives, but it was Reed who stole the batting show.

The usual cavalier approach was replaced by a batting masterclass, as the Sidbury stalwart, using his newly found ‘high elbow’, hit his maiden half-century before being finally bowled for 70.

Sidbury batted out the 40 overs posting a strong 242-6 with runs added by Simon Rowe, Rich Green and a classy half century for Phil Grove.

Sidbury began their run defence still reeling from the shock of the Reed batting display, and without opening Pace-merchant Barney Stone, it was down to Steve Crick and Chris Fitzhenry to provide the early break through.

They duly obliged sharing a wicket apiece, supported by the accurate Dave Munro who also claimed a touring scalp. Reed and Simon Rowe were brought into the attack but still puffing from his quick singles Reed lacked any real danger, instead it was Rowe who set about dismantling the Whitchurch middle order, helping himself to three.

Millfield were then treated to a catch of the season contender. It was Powell who dropped the jaws of players and spectators alike. Running backwards under a high ball he rose like a salmon from the Sidbury turf, snatching a breath-taking, one handed effort that was met with audible gasps from off-duty scorer Tracey Stone!

A rare bowling cameo from Pollard saw him claim two wickets, but he is indebted to Marcus ‘safe hands’ Bennett who took both his catches.

Sidbury ran out comfortable winners, and look to continue winning ways when they visit local rivals Newton Poppleford on Sunday.