Measured chase takes the thirds home

Bedminster third XI continued their strong start to the season, beating hosts Pucklechurch by 6 wickets, after having bowled them out for 188 on a tricky pitch for batting.

Bedminster's batsman completed a comfortable run chase of 188 in testing conditions for batting. Picking up where they left off last week openers John Jones (44) and Simon Roche (71) put on 86 for the first wicket during a patient opening partnership, which saw off the Pucklechurch opening bowlers. Joe Shean coming off a sparkling 110 in pre-season, looked assured at the crease as he took the attack to the bowlers and together with Roche brought Bedminster to the brink of victory before he was stumped off a wide for 40. Debutant George Stephenson then finished the chase off with 12 not out as Bedminster prevailed by 6 wickets.

Earlier in the day, on a very green looking pitch, skipper Harry Pleass won the toss and elected to field. The metronomic Andy Sheldrake's opening spell featured more dots than the braille version of the bible, his 9 overs going for a miserly 19 runs including 5 maidens. His tight spell was rewarded with a wicket, as the Pucklechurch opener was caught at first slip by John Jones via keeper Alfie Jaques gloves. Sheldrake was ably supported by Bailey Peacock (9-1-1-36 ), before Shazil Butt who bowled with excellent control suffocated the Pucklechurch innings, finishing with 3 wickets for 35 runs. It was a solid all round bowling performance with all the bowlers contributing a wicket. The other wicket takers were Ahsaan Butt with two, whilst Harry Pleass and leg spinner George Stephenson took one a piece as Pucklechurch were dismissed for 188 in the 45th over.

Simon Roche was awarded the lipstick this week, with Ben Cunliffe being awarded last weeks retroactively.

The third XI will face Winterbourne at home next Saturday.

See the match scorecard on play cricket.