Meanwhile Gareth Tidball was confidently advancing to his maiden county 50. He batted 109 minutes hitting 7 fours off his 98 balls. He was caught at 203, this had been a most important innings. At 203-5 perhaps it should have been time to call it a day as Devon lost Whittle and Buzza putting on another 6 runs when Hardy did bring them in. Devon left with 8 points to their opponents 16 with their heads held high although it was disappointing that the innings was interrupted by two streakers due to the inability of Messrs Whittle, Buzza and Benton to control. The 16s took on the 17s in a hard fought game of football.

Every member of the side had made an important contribution, it had been vital that they blended – they did, it was vital that the new players showed what they could do and they did. Vitally Dan Hardy took command in a most confident manner and led the side with style and good tactical awareness. With Chappell available again after the Gloucestershire game all that is needed is for the middle order left handers to perform and this might be an interesting season. Whittle's extensive music catalogue should ensure a long career but Westlife and most certainly Walking in Memphis are missing. A Little Chef was found and we were back by 9.15pm.

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