3rd XI vs Kidmore End

Widanapathirana and Astwood Partnership Sets Up Sonning Victory

Sonning 3rd XI secured a vital win in Division 9A against Kidmore End at Home Park, thanks to a commanding 98-run opening partnership between Shamitha Widanapathirana and Charles Astwood. After winning the toss and electing to bat, Sonning posted a challenging total of 174-8 from their allocated 40 overs, before restricting the visitors to 166-9.

Widanapathirana top-scored with a patient 46 from 75 deliveries, including six boundaries and a six, while Astwood contributed 37 from 62 balls. The pair provided the perfect platform for Sonning, frustrating the Kidmore End bowling attack and setting the tone for the innings. Jameel Ahamed added a useful 20 in the middle order before the hosts suffered a collapse against the bowling of Hedley Ruegg.

Ruegg was the standout performer with the ball for Kidmore End, claiming exceptional figures of 6-50 from his 10-over spell. His devastating spell included the wickets of both openers, along with Ahamed, Matthew Calhoum, Mark Lilley and Michael Longridge, significantly restricting Sonning's potential total. Alex Berry provided support with 2-42 from his 8.2 overs.

Chasing 175 for victory, Kidmore End struggled early with George Batty (7) and Matthew Stitt-Bouwer (9) falling cheaply. Nathan Ruegg injected momentum with a quickfire 33 from just 31 balls, including five boundaries, but his dismissal to Shahid Imtiaz left the visitors at 79-4.

Peter Jones stood firm for Kidmore End with a defiant 57, striking four boundaries and two sixes in his 68-ball stay at the crease. He formed a crucial 58-run partnership with Julian Berry (22), giving the visitors hope of victory. However, tight bowling from Sonning's attack, particularly Michael Longridge who removed Jones caught by Astwood, ensured the hosts maintained control.

Imtiaz led Sonning's bowling effort with 3-38 from his 10 overs, while Michael Longridge (2-41) and Jameel Ahamed (2-29) provided excellent support. Emil Rayfield delivered an economical spell of 1-19 from eight overs, and Toby Fitton chipped in with the crucial wicket of Julian Berry as Kidmore End's resistance faded.

Despite some late resistance from the lower order, Kidmore End could only reach a total of 166-9 from their 40 overs, handing Sonning a narrow but deserved eight-run victory. The result strengthens Sonning's position in Division 9A, with the opening partnership between Widanapathirana and Astwood ultimately proving the difference between the two sides.