1st XI vs Burnham

Higginbottom's Fifty and Disciplined Bowling Lead Sonning to Victory over Burnham

Sonning Cricket Club's 1st XI secured a convincing win against Burnham in their Division 2B league fixture at King George's Field on Saturday. After posting 189 all out, Sonning's bowlers dismantled the Burnham batting lineup for just 135, giving the home side a 54-run victory.

Captain Peter Higginbottom led from the front with a determined 52 from 92 deliveries, including eight boundaries. His innings provided the backbone of Sonning's total after Burnham won the toss and elected to field. William Hibberdine contributed a valuable 37, while Zanoxolo Gift Kwatsha added 23 in the middle order to help push Sonning towards a competitive total.

Burnham's Mishen Silva was the pick of their bowlers, claiming 4-33 from seven overs, while Zain Ishaq delivered an impressive spell of 3-22 from his full allocation of ten overs, including two maidens. Despite their bowling efforts, Burnham struggled to completely contain the Sonning batsmen, who reached 189 before being dismissed in the 47th over.

In response, Burnham's innings never gained momentum as Sonning's bowlers maintained consistent pressure throughout. Mohammed Zahid spearheaded the bowling attack with exceptional figures of 3-12 from six overs, including three maidens. Zahid's early breakthroughs removed Hamzah Afzaal, Muhammad Ammar Arshad, and Mishen Silva to leave Burnham reeling at 22-4.

Imran Butt provided the lone resistance for Burnham, crafting a fighting 53 from 104 deliveries, including six fours and two sixes. He formed a 51-run partnership with captain Adnan Shabbir (31) for the sixth wicket, briefly threatening to bring Burnham back into contention. However, once Adil Malik trapped Shabbir lbw, the visitors' challenge faltered.

Bobby Malik (2-12) and Zanoxolo Gift Kwatsha (2-21) provided excellent support with the ball, while Michael Longridge chipped in with 2-21 from his five overs to help complete a well-rounded bowling performance. Sonning's disciplined approach in the field ensured Burnham were dismissed for 135 in the 40th over, sealing a comfortable victory for the home side.

The win strengthens Sonning's position in the Thames Valley Cricket League Division 2B, showcasing their ability to construct competitive totals and defend them with skillful bowling across their attack. Burnham will take some positives from Imran Butt's batting display and their bowling performance but will need more contributions throughout their lineup in future matches.