Sunday As vs The Luddites

Compton-Burnett's Century Powers Sonning to Commanding Total Against Luddites

Peter Compton-Burnett's explosive century highlighted Sonning Sunday As' impressive batting display as they declared on 273-5 against The Luddites at King George's Field. The powerful middle-order batsman finished unbeaten on 101 from just 53 deliveries, including 13 fours and 6 sixes, in a dominant performance after Sonning won the toss and elected to bat.

Louis Dean provided a solid foundation for Sonning with a well-crafted 52 from 48 balls, while William Hibberdine contributed a valuable 45 in the middle order. Captain Charles Astwood (21) helped establish an opening partnership of 71 with Dean before falling to A Jhanji, who finished as The Luddites' most successful bowler with figures of 3-71.

Compton-Burnett's arrival at the crease shifted the momentum dramatically as he accelerated the scoring rate with ruthless efficiency. His century came at a strike rate exceeding 190, allowing Sonning to declare with 5.3 overs remaining in their allotted innings. Michael Longridge provided late support with an unbeaten 15 as the hosts amassed a formidable total.

In response, The Luddites reached 165-4 from their 41 overs, with David Maunder top-scoring with a patient 46 from 78 deliveries. Sunny Dehal contributed 37 at the top of the order before falling to Daniel Longridge, stumped by William Hibberdine, while Crispin Oakley retired not out after a fluent 41.

The Longridge brothers led Sonning's bowling attack effectively, with Michael taking 2-25 from his 10 overs, including three maidens, while Daniel claimed 2-33 from his allocation. The pair maintained consistent pressure throughout The Luddites' innings, with Michael removing J McGready early and M McGrady for a duck later in the innings.

Maunder and Oakley provided the backbone of The Luddites' response with a solid partnership, but when Maunder was dismissed hit wicket to Daniel Longridge, the visitors' momentum stalled. A Jhanji (18 not out) and Alex McGrady (1 not out) were left at the crease when time was called on the match.

The fixture showcased Sonning's batting strength, particularly through Compton-Burnett's tremendous hitting display, while The Luddites demonstrated resilience in their reply despite falling short of the substantial target set by the hosts.