4th XI vs Bradfield

Sonning 4th XI Edge Past Bradfield in One-Run Thriller

Sonning's 4th XI secured a nail-biting victory against Bradfield in their Division 10A encounter, winning by the slenderest of margins after posting a challenging total of 247-5 from their 40 overs.

After winning the toss and electing to bat, Sonning recovered from the early loss of James Travers for just one run. Captain Charles Astwood (22) steadied the ship before Syed Naqi played a pivotal role with a quick-fire 60 from just 51 balls, including eight boundaries and a six, forming a crucial 68-run partnership with Astwood for the second wicket.

The innings truly gained momentum when Paul Towner compiled a well-crafted 58, but it was Matthew Dawes who provided the late firepower with an unbeaten 50. The pair shared a match-defining partnership of 118 runs for the fifth wicket, propelling Sonning to an imposing total. David Brown was the pick of the Bradfield bowlers, claiming 2-39 from his eight-over spell.

Bradfield's response began promisingly with opener Ed Dack contributing 30 before falling to James Travers, caught by Mike Eaton. The chase gained significant momentum through Freddie Barker, who dominated the middle overs with a magnificent 89, threatening to take the game away from Sonning.

Scott Barefield provided valuable support with 48 runs before becoming one of Raja-Shahroz Khan's two victims, caught by Kabir Dave. Khan's spell of 2-36 from eight overs proved instrumental, while Syed Naqi demonstrated his all-round capabilities with figures of 2-47.

Two crucial run-outs shifted momentum back to Sonning at critical junctures - first when Raja-Shahroz Khan removed the dangerous Barker and then when wicketkeeper Henry Cook dismissed Bradfield captain Chris Jones without scoring. These interventions proved decisive as Bradfield's middle order collapsed, with Jamie Lafford, Will Luff, and Harry Luff all falling cheaply.

Despite a spirited effort from M Shailes (16 not out), Bradfield ultimately fell one run short, finishing on 246-8 from their allotted 40 overs. Sonning's disciplined bowling performance, particularly in the closing stages, secured a victory that keeps their promotion hopes alive in Division 10A.