3rd XI vs Reading

Calhoum's 93 Steers Sonning 3rd XI to Commanding Victory Over Reading

Matthew Calhoum's patient 93 not out was the cornerstone of Sonning 3rd XI's comprehensive 78-run victory over Reading 4th XI in their Division 9A league fixture at Sonning. After being put in to bat, Sonning compiled a formidable 224-4 from their allotted 40 overs before dismissing the visitors for 146.

Sonning's innings began cautiously with Charles Astwood (12) and Shamitha Widanapathirana (15) putting on 23 for the first wicket before Widanapathirana fell lbw to Henry Goodchild. When Astwood was dismissed hit wicket to Aniq Bajwa with the score on 41, Calhoum took control of proceedings, anchoring the innings with a masterful 93 from 89 deliveries, including 12 boundaries.

Michael Longridge provided excellent support, contributing 43 from 61 balls in an important 85-run partnership with Calhoum for the fourth wicket. Captain Mark Lilley added late impetus with an unbeaten 29 from 35 deliveries as Sonning accelerated to a commanding total. Reading's bowlers struggled for consistency, with Patrick Holmes particularly expensive, conceding 46 runs from nine overs despite claiming the wicket of Syed Naqi.

In reply, Reading's chase faltered from the outset as Michael Longridge struck early, removing Rafae Farooq for just 2, caught by Lilley. Longridge continued his devastating opening spell, finishing with excellent figures of 3-18 from six overs, dismantling Reading's top order as they slumped to 18-3.

Patrick Holmes provided some resistance with 27 from 52 balls, while Stuart Moulds briefly threatened with a quickfire 29 from just 20 deliveries, including five boundaries. However, Sonning's disciplined bowling attack maintained constant pressure, with Daniel Longridge (2-32) and Mike Eaton (2-17) helping to ensure wickets fell at regular intervals.

The Reading lower order showed some fight through Neerav Shah (11) and Aniq Bajwa (18), but when Charles Astwood claimed Bajwa as his victim with the score on 146, Reading's innings was wrapped up with 8.3 overs remaining. Sonning's bowling was backed by sharp fielding, with Calhoum completing a fine all-round performance by taking a catch and executing a stumping.

The victory maintains Sonning 3rd XI's positive momentum in the Thames Valley Cricket League Division 9A, as they produced a well-rounded team performance highlighted by Calhoum's batting masterclass and Longridge's devastating spell with the new ball.