Wargrave victory helps maintain survival chance

HENLEY’S trip to ASTON ROWANT in Division 1 of the Home Counties Premier League was abandoned without a ball being bowled at Butts Way last Saturday.

The fixture was one of three matches that were cancelled or abandoned in the division on a day which saw High Wycombe crowned champions and Henley staving off their distant relegation fears.

WARGRAVE still have a chance of survival after picking up a valuable DLS victory against HAREFIELD on a rain-affected afternoon.

Put in to bat, Wargrave were anchored by Mayank Gudimetla’s patient 71 from 117 balls, well supported by Rhys Lewis (48). The pair added 85 for the second wicket, laying the foundations for a competitive total. Captain Toby Greatwood struck a brisk 31, but Harefield’s bowlers fought back well in the middle and lower order. Daniel Ogden was the pick of the attack with 4-31, backed by Jordan McLeod (3-37) and Stephen Croft (3-37), as Wargrave were bowled out for 196 in the 48th over.

Chasing a revised target of 146 in 37 overs, Harefield began shakily as Bhandari and Lewis struck early. Daniel Ogden counter-attacked with a fluent 56, but his dismissal to Mark Firth (3-36) proved the turning point. From 81-1, Harefield slipped to 123-6, with Neal Robinson also chipping in. Despite resistance from Will Shepherd (28 not out), the hosts fell short at 143-6 when time expired.

Wargrave collected a maximum 20 points, thanks to a disciplined bowling display and solid top-order contributions, while Harefield were left to rue a missed opportunity on home soil.

Tomorrow (Saturday) Wargrave, who are 13 points from safety, play their final match of the season at home to basement side Stoke Green while Henley host Finchampstead. Both matches get under way at 11am.