Mixed start for Kilmington Cricket Club in new season

After a successful 2023, the 1st XI visited Abbotskerswell with the entire last year's squad, barring Billy Reed and Sam Cuconits.

This included new Australian player Joel Whelan as well as Josh Short who had returned to the club following a year in the WEPL league at Chard.

The club batted first, scoring a total of 209-9 from their 50 overs, facing fine bowling from Inder Singh.

Whelan made a noticeable impact with a score of 65, comprised of four fours and seven sixes.

Joel Seward, who had recently exhibited an impressive performance at the London Marathon, held the innings together, despite the steady loss of wickets.

Seward scored 30 not out, with supporting runs made by Short and Ollie Reed.

The Kilmington team tore into the Abbots top order with paceman Reed and swing bowler Josh Cann, reducing the opposition to 8-5.

However, resistance was provided by James Tyler, Liam Hurse and Kyle Rich against Kilmington spinner Rob Crabb.

A final total of 122 all out off 36.2 overs by Abbotskerswell gave Kilmington a 19 point victory to start their league season.

The season for the 2nd XI got underway with a home game against local rivals Sidbury.

Sidbury batted first, scoring a total of 133 all out off 38.5 overs.

Stephen Howe was the top scorer.

Returning left arm spinner Zak Szilagyi stood out amongst the Kilmington bowlers.

However, Kilmington's response was less than satisfactory.

Both openers Alex Rockett and Hal Cook made no runs in the first six overs.

Regular falling of wickets saw only minimal resistance from wicket keeper Connor Trott and skipper Ashley Cook.

The game ended with a total of 94 all out for Kilmington, resulting in a loss by 39 runs.

With a difficult start for the 2nd XI, the team will now seek improvement in their upcoming away match against Bideford next Saturday.

While the 1st XI will aim to maintain their strong efforts in their home match against Bridestowe and a Devon Senior Cup match against Sidmouth on Sunday.