Devon Dumplings v Old Vigornians

This was a second fixture for the Dumplings against the touring Old Vigornians side from

Worcestershire – a club linked with King’s School, Worcester.

Playing at Budleigh’s new ground in its second year on a dry and sunny day but with a chilly breeze,

Dumplings batted first. Jeremy Tojy and Josh Paget opened confidently, building their innings well

and using the quick outfield to keep the score ticking along on the way to a 100 partnership.

Unfortunately both fell within two overs just short of their 50s (Paget 45, Tojy 42). The bowler was

Cameron Blakey (2-35) who played for the Dumplings several years ago whilst at Exeter Uni and

bowled very well. Harry Everett then came to crease with purpose and alongside Harry Kandampully put on 87 in 12 overs. Everett finished with an excellent 87 from 58 balls and Kandampully 35 from 46 before Kiran Sakhamuri hit a quick 16 to take the score to 266-4 in 40 overs. It was noted, however, that several singles were turned down in the last over with an Everett hundred in sight!

This was a competitive total and the quick outfield could make it potentially difficult to defend. Alex James (our only seamer in the team) opened alongside off-spinner Harry Gribble and both bowled extremely well. After several tight overs, the pressure resulted in an attempted quick single to Billy Buckingham at point whose outstanding direct hit with one stump to aim at ended the opening partnership. Henry Armstrong then fell first ball to James with a perfect delivery that nipped back taking the off bail. Joe Sullivan made it clear from two early big sixes into the trees that further wickets would still be needed.

Then Paul Berman began a spell of left arm spin. In four overs he claimed 5 wickets for 7 runs,

bowling with excellent control and flight to remove the Old Vigornian’s middle order. Sullivan continued to strike the ball cleanly, frequently reaching the boundary on his way to an impressive 50 off only 34 balls. With three wickets remaining, a change of bowling led to Paget’s off-spin taking the vital wicket of Sullivan along with one more, finishing with figures of 2-2. Gribble claimed the final wicket with the score just short of 100.

It was a game that could have gone very differently, but things went the Dumplings way and there were many good performances including some good catching. It was played in a great spirit and we hope to play Old Vigornians again when they next tour.

Congratulations to Paul for his man-of-the-match 5 wicket performance!
DD 266-5 (40) H Everett 87; J Paget 45; J Tojy 42
O Vigornians 99 ao  P Berman 4-0-7-5