Although a number of key bowlers were missing, Tows initial efforts with the ball were promising. Hinton openers proceeded cautiously against Tony Rood and Tom Sheppard and the first 10 overs yielded only 31 runs and a number of close LBW calls were denied

However Jamie Layton-Hill and Robbie Turvey were never really in much trouble as they set about building a base for innings.

Tows problems really began in the 17th over. Roger Wilson took a knock behind the stumps and had a nauseous reaction that resulted in him leaving the pitch. Sheppard took over behind the sticks.

Gareth Deeble replaced Sheppard with the ball and, after begin hit for a big six, bowled Layton-Hill for 32. At the other end Roodt finished his spell (0/23 from his 10 overs) and was replaced by Andy Roberts who could only manage 3 overs before a back problem immobilised him.

Tows were now under pressure and had somehow to negotiate the last 15 overs with occasional bowlers. With wickets in hand Hinton were able to cash in.

Turvey was eventually caught by Roberts off Rob Jones for 57 but then Ian Batts (57), Matt Lemon (35 not out) and Reece Green (21) scored freely as the visitors finished on 218.

The only bright light for Tows was the form of Sean Duffy who bowled Batts, Green and Richard Adams with a controlled spell of off-spin at the close.

The target for Tows was an unlikely one, with both Wilson and Roberts unable to bat, so it was essential that the top order ensured a good start.

Tom Sheppard and Rob Jones began steadily with Paul White particularly difficult to get away. They took the score to 59 before Sheppard was bowled by Sean Gardiner with a ball that kept low for 19.

Tony Roodt joined Jones but eventually over-reached playing forward and was bowled by Reece Green for 7. Green also had Gareth Deeble caught in the covers trying to raise the pace for 11. Jones was meanwhile bating nicely but he too was eventually trapped LBW by Green for an excellent 58.

Michael Alcock and Sean Duffy saw out the remaining overs without worrying the scoreboard although Alcock was bowled by James Stopps with 2 balls of the game remaining – to his considerable annoyance.

Hinton completed a 99 run victory and despite mitigating circumstances it was another poor performance by Tows.

Towcestrians CC

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