CRICKET: Sleaford CC unable to claim outright win

Batting first after winning the toss, Sleaford first XI, sponsored by Baker Plant Hire, made the worst possible start, losing both their opening batsmen without scoring. Jack Wilson joined Obus Pienaar and the pair made careful progress against a consistent bowling attack which offered few scoring opportunities.

Gradually, Sleaford assumed control as Pienaar got into his stride and the partnership was worth 107 before Wilson was bowled for an important 35.

Oliver Burford joined Pienaar as the scoring continued to accelerate and, despite Burford dragging a ball on to his stumps with his score on 20, Sleaford moved towards a useful score as their professional recorded his first century for the club before being dismissed for 143.

Captain Shaun Morris played exactly the required innings for his side and remained unbeaten on 38 when the innings closed.

In reply, Sleaford’s strike bowlers Nick Goacher and Morris both struck with the new ball, but Cheer maintained a long vigil for his side, in partnership with both Croom and Spark, to ensure that Sleaford were always likely to be denied outright victory.

The visitors eventually closed on 166 to leave Sleaford the best of a drawn fixture.

The match ball was sponsored by Steve and Linda Morris.

In the South Lincs and Border League Premier Division, Sleaford went down to a disappointing defeat in the reverse fixture.

Sponsored by Darren Wilson, the team produced what was a below par performance all round, allowing the home side to make 199-7 from their 45 overs and being dismissed for 151 in reply.

On Sunday, Sleaford travelled to Lincoln Lindum in the Lincoln Premier League, and won by a comfortable 72 run margin.

Sponsored by Specsavers, Sleaford posted a useful total of 224 with Pienaar registering his second century of the weekend before the home side were dismissed for 152, with Angus Youles and Louis Kimber both claiming three wickets.

At Sleaford, Sleaford Academy, sponsored by Turnbulls, recorded an emphatic victory against Hartsholme.

Sleaford batted first and amassed 337 from their 40 overs, with Simon Godby making an undefeated 162 whilst Oliver Bean contributed 95. Hartsholme’s reply fell more than 200 runs short.

This Saturday, Sleaford first XI travel to Bourne whilst the same opposition will play at London Road in the South Lincs Premier League. Hartsholme visit Sleaford in the Lincoln League Premier Division on Sunday, and the Academy team visit Woodhall Spa.

Home fixtures start at 1pm and 2pm respectively and spectators are welcome on both days. Admission is free of charge.