Devon Cricket Board - D Division West

D Division West - tight at the top

D DIVISION WEST

ASHBURTON edged out leaders Kingskerswell by two wickets in the D Division West match of the day.

Kerswell, who won the toss and opted to bat first, reached 52 for none before losing openers Steve Waters (34) and Mike Etherington (18) in successive overs.

Skipper Nigel Butt (27no) rescued Kerswell from 66 for three and when he went at 114 for five only Chris Hurrell resisted as the Villagers dipped to 137 all out.

Robin Lambert led the bowling effort with three for 27, aided by Will Coon, Matt Coon and Dom Durman with two each.

Kevin Cock led the Ashes’ reply with 55, but it was by no means plain sailing as wickets fell to Pieter Douglas (5-46) as the score swung from 95 for five to 106 for seven then 123 for eight.

Some inspired hitting by Chris Yeo, who belted a quick 20 including a six on to the pavilion roof, won the game for Ashes.

With Torquay beating Dartington by seven wickets, and Lewdown slipping up at Chagford, it is tighter than ever at the top with Kerswell (218pts), Ashburton (215), Torquay (199) and Lewdown (192) all in the mix going into the final four games.

Torquay play Ashes this Saturday in a game which could have a bearing on who goes up.

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