Sleaford CC Firsts undone by Grantham

Grantham had made 92 when their fourth wicket fell and the game was evenly poised, but Dowman and Webb batted with ever-increasing authority, compiling a total of 285 which was to prove too much for Sleaford who eventually made 234 from their allotted overs.

Andy Hibberd’s half-century and a stand of 79 between Cameron Hall and Adi Sreedharan were the significant features of Sleaford’s reply.

* In the South Lincs and Border League Premier, Sleaford Seconds suffered a disappointing four-wicket defeat at Woodhall Spa.

Batting first after winning the toss, Sleaford made 229-6 with Paul Roberts and Drew Harbron making half-centuries.

A well-paced reply saw the hosts ease to victory with five overs to spare and leave Sleaford with eight points to show for their efforts.

* Sunday’s fixtures brought better results as both sides registered victories in the Lincoln Sunday League.

In the Premier, Sleaford won by nine wickets at Revesby, while in Division One, Sleaford Academy, sponsored by Turnbulls, got the better of Woodhall Spa by 38 runs.

On Saturday, Sleaford Firsts, sponsored by Baker Plant Hire, will be bolstered by the arrival of their international player-coach Cephas Zuhwao as they travel to Market Deeping.

In the South Lincs Premier, Sleaford host Skegness, and in the Lincoln Sunday League Premier Division, Lindum are the visitors to London Road. Spectators are welcome.