Barnt Green 236-6 Himley 240-5

Barnt Green lost by five wickets

BATTLING Barnt Green showed signs that the team is returning to its best with the bat but it was put in the shade by Himley centurion Jagbir Dhillon on Saturday.

Green set Himley a total of 237 for victory and two quick wickets had the Staffordshire side reduced to 0-2.

But Dhillon's patient 121 inspired a stunning fight back and inflicted a five wicket defeat on the Birmingham and District League Premier Division champions.

Captain Simon Froggatt said: "We looked to be coming into good form with the bat. Everyone contributed and it was very encouraging.

"We also looked in total control with the ball and had them in trouble but Jagbir Dhillion batted well. But we dropped at least four easy catches and this game was there for the taking."

Green started promisingly, despite Gavin Shephard (17) being bowled by Dave Willis early on, as Richard Hall (42) and Stuart Sheppard (59) got amongst the runs.

The duo provided the home team with a solid base that allowed Nathan Newport (26), Paul Bedford (39 not out) and Lyndon Jones (20) to add runs late on.

Green finished on 236-6 in their 55 overs, with Willis (2-56) Himley's dangerman with the ball.

Former Worcestershire all rounder David Wigley struck twice to leave Himley reeling. The tall bowler dismissed Cameron Fox and Daniel Bassett for ducks as Himley slipped to 0-2.

However, Dhillion led the fight back and was well supported by Greg Wright (27) and Stuart Lampitt (62 not out).

Matt Rawnsley dismissed Wright and Wigley had Dhillion caught by Richard Wilkinson to give Green hope of victory, but Jonathan Day (11) and Akeel Ahmed (7) inflicted defeat on Barnt Green in the 50th over.

Froggatt said: "That was a game which we could have won if we had taken our chances when fielding. We had too many mistakes in that department and it really cost us."