Devon developing 'ruthless' streak needed to challenge for trophies in white-ball cricket says Western

DEVON team boss Tim Western is hoping to see more of the same attitude and application that produced a win over Herefordshire in the NV-Play Trophy double-header against Berkshire and Wiltshire.

Western said before the 53-run win over Herefordshire at Bovey Tracey that Devon needed a tougher mindset in matches, adding: “We have set out our stall to be more ruthless and more organised in white-ball cricket.”

The team responded with a battling performance to reach 200 all out from 143 for eight – Sam Read and Craig Penberthy the men of the moment with the bat – before spinning out Herefordshire for 147.

“The partnership between Sam and Craig helped set a competitive total,” said Western.

Devon showed the ‘ruthless’ streak Western craved by taking the last five wickets for just 10 runs.

Said Western: “We undoubtedly showed resilience in the game against Herefordshire.

“We have a great team spirit and the players are all pulling in the same direction. There is both honesty and ambition, which is really positive moving forwards.

“It showed that we have a greater depth than before with both bat and ball. 

“It was also good to see a ruthlessness in squeezing the game and wrapping up the Herefordshire innings in quick time.

“Our spinners all bowled well and adapted to the conditions, which made it difficult for Herefordshire to get going.

“Matt Whalley bowled economically – and picked-up the key wicket of George Rhodes (ex-Worcs and Leics). Harvey and Read continued the squeeze and wickets fell as a result.”

Berkshire, who beat Hertfordshire in a high-scoring contest last week, have named an unchanged squad for Devon’s visit.

Wiltshire, away to Herefordshire on Sunday, make one change to their side on Monday with Archie Pascoe coming in for William Brown.