Steve Riddle - South Wilts match winner [Roy Honeybone]
Steve Riddle picked up a bat for the first time in 11 months to hit an unbeaten half-century and steer South Wilts seconds to a four-wicket win over Paultons – and almost certain safety in Southern Premier Division 2.
The Bemerton side had been struggling in the lower reaches of the table until recently, but now lie sixth and well clear of Fawley and Paultons, who currently occupy the last two relegation positions.
In a match reduced to 30 overs because of rain, Paultons posted 146-5 with Lee Wateridge (43 and Rob Pike (42) top scoring against twin duo Rob Pittman (3-36) and James Brewer (2-36).
South Wilts reached 42-1 before losing Joe Cranch and George Edwards (20) in quick succession, but Riddle used his experience and almost doubled the score in partnership with Tom Pearce before talented teen Ben Howgrave-Graham (26) arrived at the crease to belt two sixes and two fours and lift the total to 124 before he was trapped leg before wicket.
Riddle took control after that, watching on as Pittman hit two more boundaries, before bringing up his half century with the winning hit. He struck a six and seven fours in his match winning 51 not out.
The Bemerton side had been struggling in the lower reaches of the table until recently, but now lie sixth and well clear of Fawley and Paultons, who currently occupy the last two relegation positions.
In a match reduced to 30 overs because of rain, Paultons posted 146-5 with Lee Wateridge (43 and Rob Pike (42) top scoring against twin duo Rob Pittman (3-36) and James Brewer (2-36).
South Wilts reached 42-1 before losing Joe Cranch and George Edwards (20) in quick succession, but Riddle used his experience and almost doubled the score in partnership with Tom Pearce before talented teen Ben Howgrave-Graham (26) arrived at the crease to belt two sixes and two fours and lift the total to 124 before he was trapped leg before wicket.
Riddle took control after that, watching on as Pittman hit two more boundaries, before bringing up his half century with the winning hit. He struck a six and seven fours in his match winning 51 not out.
