BRADNINCH skipper Gary Chappell has warned rival clubs to watch out for Paignton’s overseas ace Divyaansh Saxena after his match-winning century in a runaway win.

Ross Acton (75) and Mitch Pugh (53) were Bradninch’s primary run scorers in a 50-over total of 171 all out.

Acton and Pugh hoisted 107 for Bradninch’s second wicket, which was just as well as no one else made more than seven!

Saxena, capped by India at under-19 level, bowled 10 overs for 21 runs, but was outdone in the wicket-taking table by Cole Harford (2-33) and Luke Medlock (3-31).

Paignton had the runs knocked off late in the 26th over of their reply with Saxena battering Bradninch for an unbeaten 103.

Saxena and Harry Ward (45) opened up with 100 for the first wicket. As the target came down Saxena sped-up. One over from Pugh went for 21.

Aryab Raigangar (0-29) was the lone Ninch bowler to cost less than four runs an over.

Saxena was at the other end on 103 not out – 73 balls, 11 fours, six sixes – when Medlock chipped the winning runs.

Said Chappell: “I thought Ross and Mitch batted well and that 170 was a competitive score.

“Fair play to Paignton as they made it hard work. 

“Saxena just ruined the game – and we won’t be the only team he does that too!”

Chappell may have viewed it as a one-man show, but winning captain Mark Orchard saw it a little differently.

“Our opening bowlers bowled superbly and set the tone,” said Orchard. Divy got Chaps (Chappell) early and Sean Kirk bowled superbly with pace and bounce. 

“Possibly we became slightly too defensive against the new batsman, but Ross and Mitch batted well with a solid partnership. 

“I was extremely happy to bowl them out for 171.”

Although Saxena hogged the limelight during the run chase, Orchard said Ward deserved plaudits too. 

“Divy’s innings was as good as I've seen, however Harry's knock was superb,” said Orchard.

“Harry set out positively and batted as well as I've seen him. They both took the game away early and made sure we didn't struggle.”