Lack-lustre batting leaves Knighton still seeking first victory

KNIGHTON-on-Teme are still chasing their first win since gaining promotion to the Worcestershire League Division Five after a disappointing batting display saw them collapse when chasing a reachable winning target at home to Highley.

Visiting skipper Tim Gasch has not won the toss this season and it was no surprise when the home captain called correctly and elected to bat.

Seamer Mark Evans caused all the Highley batsmen trouble and he bowled a tight spell to finish with 4-27 off his allotted 12 overs.

Steve Walford was the corner stone of the Highley innings and he contributed a fine 62 as his team totalled 204 off 44 overs.

Having bowled Highly out with an over to spare Knighton gained a bonus over, which gave them a reachable target of 205 off a possible 46 overs.

Tony Batt and Matt James made a steady start but things started to go wrong when James (5) went with the total at 19.

Highley seam bowler Junior Boyce then wrecked the Knighton middle order with a superb spell of 12 overs, including six maidens, to take 5 for 12.

Batt went for 19, but the only other resistance came from youngster Dan Pullen who occupied the crease for 16 overs in making a stubborn 3 not out.

Highley took a maximum 24 points for their win, and Knighton could only claim 5 bowling points.