James Mann’s explosive century propelled Himbleton to a commanding 128-run victory over Worcester Nomads 2nd XI on Saturday.
The match took place at Himbleton’s home ground, where the home side opted to bat first.
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Himbleton’s innings began steadily, with Ali Pretty and Matt Gurr navigating the challenging opening bowling from Immy Ashgar and Ben Green.
The pair contributed significantly, scoring 39 and 37 runs respectively, laying a solid foundation for the innings.
Mann entered the fray at 73 for one in the 22nd over and quickly took control of the match.
He struck 19 boundaries, including seven sixes, racing to a remarkable 104 runs off just 37 balls.
His innings was pivotal in pushing the total to 227 for four by the 35th over.
The middle order continued the momentum, with Stuart Dickenson remaining unbeaten on 41.
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He was well supported by Will Godwin, Tom Godwin, and TJ Alford, who collectively added 125 runs in the final 15 overs.
Will contributed 20 runs, while Tom hit three sixes in his quick 33.
Alford also made a swift 17 runs, helping the hosts finish on 352 for eight.
Dylan Fincher was the standout bowler for the visitors, claiming four wickets for 60 runs.
In response, the Nomads started strongly, with Dan Baker and Mark Groves capitalising on aggressive field placements.
However, the introduction of Alford shifted the momentum, as he took two wickets in consecutive deliveries.
Despite this, the away side made the home team work hard for their victory, with the last wicket falling in the 47th over.
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Mann and Alford each claimed three wickets, with Alford benefiting from a spectacular one-handed catch by Dickenson at first slip.
Jon Critchlow eventually sealed the win for Himbleton, completing a patient but convincing performance.
After the match, Mann expressed his delight at his century, stating, “I’m delighted with the ton.
“I seemed to middle the ball from the start of my innings and with the platform set by the openers I had licence to play a few shots.”
Captain Tom Godwin praised the team’s overall performance, saying, “That was a cracking all-round team performance today.
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“I was really pleased with the patience and resilience of the team.”
He also highlighted Mann’s innings, noting, “When Manny gets going and is hitting the ball cleanly there are few finer sights in club cricket.”
With this victory, Himbleton moved back into third place and will face local rivals Avoncroft next Saturday.
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