HIMBLETON are the early Worcestershire County League Division Three pacesetters as they made it back-to-back wins with a 123-run victory over Netherton.
After suffering the worst possible start to the game by losing opener Jon Critchlow to the first ball of the match, the Meadow Boys showed their strength in depth as they posted an imposing total of 352-5 on Saturday.
Richard (106) and Ali Pretty (72) rebuilt the innings for the village side, putting on 133 for the second wicket with the former going on to record a beautifully timed century.
Older brother Richard hit 15 fours and four sixes in his century while Jamie Alford (19), Sean Jenkins (27) and most notably Stuart Dickenson (81 no) all contributed towards the total.
Dickenson produced an explosive innings coming off just 27 balls which included six fours and eight sixes as well as taking 26 runs from the final five balls of the game.
In batsmen friendly conditions the Meadow Boys’ bowling performance was most pleasing as they skittled out a strong Netherton side with little trouble.
Mike Rogers’ (2-45) pace and know-how was too much for the top order as he removed Mark Buttery (9) with an away swinger which clipped the top of the off stump.
George Clifton (1-32) bowled with control and deserved his wicket after a smart catch by Rogers at short mid-wicket which left Netherton at 24-2.
Alford (2-25) proved too good for Wasim Nawaz (35) with Luke Brace taking a simple catch behind the stumps before the Jenkins show took over.
Firstly Sam Jenkins removed the danger man Tarab Nawaz lbw for a duck before cousin Sean took three wickets with his off spin and change of pace.
Rogers and Alford then came back into the attack and it took them little time in taking the remaining two wickets.
Skipper Dickenson said: “It was an enjoyable win and an emphatic performance.
“We executed our plans for pacing the innings perfectly and it was great to see Rich Pretty in the runs – he batted beautifully.
“The bowlers showed control and patience to bowl Netherton out.”
Himbleton travel to Rushwick on Saturday (1pm start) with Harry Stokes replacing Critchlow after hitting an unbeaten 247 in the Seconds’ victory over Worcester Fourths.
“We’re very much looking forward to Rushwick because we like playing there,” Dickenson added.
“They always provide a challenge so I hope we’re up for it.”
