1st XI vs Binfield

Malik's Four-Wicket Haul Steers Sonning to Nail-Biting Win Against Binfield

Sonning's 1st XI secured a thrilling victory by just six runs against Binfield at FWE Goates Memorial Ground on Saturday, with Bobby Malik's outstanding bowling spell proving decisive in the low-scoring encounter.

After winning the toss and electing to bat, Sonning struggled to establish momentum, finding themselves at a precarious 40-5. Zanoxolo Gift Kwatsha provided much-needed resistance with a patient 35 from 59 deliveries, striking four boundaries before falling to Sam Kennett with the score at 87.

Oliver Rowe (19) and Robert Jones (19) made valuable contributions in the middle order, with Jones anchoring the innings as wickets fell around him. Michael Longridge added a quick 17 with three boundaries before Sonning were eventually dismissed for 129 in the 39th over.

Binfield's bowling attack shared the spoils, with Thomas Nower and Matt Hayman both claiming three wickets apiece, while captain Jack Collett picked up two vital breakthroughs to keep Sonning's total within reach.

In reply, Binfield's opener Wynand Lamprecht looked dangerous, striking five boundaries in his 29 before becoming Bobby Malik's first victim with the score at 48. Malik continued his devastating spell, finishing with exceptional figures of 4-10 from his ten overs including five maidens, as Binfield's batting order struggled to establish partnerships.

The match swung dramatically when Jack Collett and Eddie Hulbert combined for a crucial 54-run partnership for the seventh wicket, with Collett striking five boundaries in his 34. However, when Zanoxolo Gift Kwatsha dismissed Collett with Binfield needing just eight more runs for victory, the momentum shifted back to Sonning.

Michael Longridge delivered the final blows, claiming the last two wickets in quick succession as Binfield collapsed from 122-7 to 123 all out, handing Sonning a dramatic win. Zanoxolo Gift Kwatsha supported the bowling effort with 2-34, while Peter Higginbottom and Adil Malik claimed a wicket each to complete a remarkable team bowling performance that defended their modest total.