1st XI vs Harpsden

Zahid's Heroic 92 Powers Sonning to Victory Over Harpsden

Mohammed Zahid fell agonizingly short of a century but his magnificent 92 guided Sonning 1st XI to a memorable five-wicket win against Harpsden in Thames Valley Cricket League Division 2B on Saturday. Chasing 212 for victory at Harpsden's ground, Sonning reached their target with captain Peter Higginbottom and Zahid laying the foundation for a successful run chase.

After winning the toss, Harpsden elected to bat first but found themselves struggling against a disciplined Sonning bowling attack. Mohammed Zahid (3-50) and Bobby Malik (3-49) were the pick of the bowlers, well supported by captain Peter Higginbottom (2-52) and Adil Malik (2-30) as they dismissed the home side for 211 in 48.3 overs.

Nicholas Amos was Harpsden's top scorer with a brisk 40 from just 43 balls including seven boundaries, while Ollie McConkey contributed a determined 39. Some late resistance from Olly Offwood (33) and Matthew Stanley (25) helped push the total past 200, with the last four wickets adding 54 valuable runs to give Harpsden a competitive total.

In reply, Sonning built their chase methodically, with captain Higginbottom (46) and William Hibberdine (23) providing a solid 53-run opening partnership. When Hibberdine fell lbw to Nicholas Amos, Zahid joined his captain at the crease and the pair put on 71 crucial runs for the second wicket before Higginbottom was bowled by Amos for 46.

Zahid dominated the Harpsden bowling attack, striking 10 fours and a six in his 98-ball knock of 92. His composure at the crease and fluent strokeplay were key factors in Sonning maintaining control of the chase. When he was eventually stumped by Micky Molloy off Kirk Graham's bowling, Sonning required just 16 more runs with six wickets in hand.

Zanoxolo Gift Kwatsha ensured there would be no late drama with a composed unbeaten 28, guiding Sonning home despite a brief wobble when Oliver Rowe fell for a first-ball duck. Robert Jones (2 not out) was at the crease with Kwatsha when victory was secured with five wickets and plenty of deliveries to spare.

For Harpsden, Nicholas Amos was the most effective bowler with figures of 2-52 from his 15 overs, while Kirk Graham also picked up two wickets for 40 runs. Despite a disciplined bowling performance, Harpsden's total proved insufficient against a determined Sonning batting lineup led by Zahid's match-winning innings.