Ledbury CC 2nd XI beat Eastnor in Division Eight thriller

After being put in to bat, Eastnor posted a commanding 254/6 from 41 overs. Openers Scott Roberts (83) and Gordon Wint (65) laid a massive foundation with a 145-run opening stand.

David Copestake got the opening breakthrough for Ledbury to dismiss Roberts. A rain delay then briefly interrupted play, adding some tension to the local derby atmosphere. Wint seemingly lost his nerve during the stoppage, as he was clean-bowled by Brian Weaver immediately upon the resumption of play. 

George Gordon added a late flurry with an unbeaten 49* to close the innings. Copestake was the pick of the bowlers, finishing with stellar figures of 3/29 from eight overs, while Weaver chipped in with 2/52.

Chasing a revised target of 226 from 37 overs due to the weather interruption, Ledbury timed their pursuit beautifully. Solid contributions at the top from Edward Nolan (40) and Brian Weaver (31) set the platform.

Despite breakthroughs from Eastnor's George Gordon and Jai Smallwood, who picked up two wickets apiece, Ledbury kept their nerve.

The chase was anchored by Simon Ritchie, who scored a masterclass 67*. He was joined by David Copestake, who capped a brilliant all-round performance with an unbeaten 35* to guide Ledbury home to 227/5 with 5 balls remaining.

Meanwhile at Orlham Lane, the 1st XI won convincingly by nine wickets. 

The 1st XI welcomed Ombersley and restricted the visitors to 177 off their 45 overs. Ledbury’s openers made a flying start to the chase before Tom Hill departed, bringing Tom Bowring to the crease.

Bowring kept the momentum going alongside Josh Evans, who brought up his second century of the season, as the pair guided Ledbury to a nine wicket victory in style.

This Saturday Ledbury CC 2nd XI look to host Bartestree & Lugwardine CC 3rd XI. And the 1st XI will travel to Stone CC and play their 1st XI.