Capel 196 vs. Newdigate 266-6

Newdigate travelled to second placed Capel looking to carry on their good form having beaten leaders South Nutfield last week.

Having lost the toss, and been asked to bat, Newdigate lost a wicket in the first over.  The dampness in the wicket meant that there was plenty of movement and bounce for the bowlers, and Richard Callcut and Dan Jones had to battle through the first hour.  However, both were determined to be positive when given the chance, and the pair compiled a valuable partnership of 140 before Jones was dismissed for 55.  A flurry of wickets followed, mostly thanks to Luke Costello (3-52), but Callcut continued on before getting bowled by the returning Sam Jaques for 87.  This bought Des Harris (59 not out) to the wicket who, along with Ruky Wickremasinghe (24) battered the last few overs to make a quickfire partnership of 65 and set up the declaration at 266-6.

In reply, Capel started positively, but lost wickets at regular intervals including that of Brad Pearce for a well made 32.  Matt Jee (22) looked to consolidate, whilst Neil Bennett (47) went for his shots.  The home side looked well placed at 142-4 but three quick wickets effectively ended their challenge.  Ashley Smith (35) tried to keep the scoreboard moving, but once he was dismissed, Capel were left scrapping for a draw.  They narrowly failed to achieve this as Allan Cooper (4-33) snared the final wicket in the last over to give the visitors the win.

Newdigate next host Westcott, who defeated leaders South Nutfield , to go top of the table.  This win moved Newdigate within 4 points of them into 2nd