As the 35-over League nears its conclusion, every run, wicket, and point is becoming crucial in the race for the top.
Division One
Taunton Deane welcomed Cornwood, still looking to secure their first win of the season. The home side lost the toss, and were put into field first. Cornwood’s captain Gemma Lancaster stunned with the bat, scoring 48 runs before getting out to Amy Farr’s bowling. Helly Simpson (24*), Kat Frost (20), Keira De Villiers (19), and Shini Al Khalid (19) helped the side to finish on 167 for 5 off their 35 overs. Taunton Deane’s innings didn't start great, losing 3 early wickets. However, Emily Dummett stepped up scoring 55*, giving Taunton hope of their first win. However, with little support for Dummett, Taunton fell 19 runs short, remaining winless.
Plymouth were set to face Exeter, but Exeter conceded, handing Plymouth 20 points. Plymouth now share the top spot in the table with North Devon, both on 138 points each.
Division Two
Exeter were due to face Hatherleigh. However, Exeter were unable to raise a side, handing Hatherleigh 20 points and keeping them top of the table.
Bovey Tracey travelled to Exmouth, looking for their first win of the league. Exmouth won the toss and chose to bat first, setting an impressive score of 268 for Bovey Tracey to chase. Sasha Gerrick (72) and Laila Escott (77) led the run chase, scoring 21 boundaries between them! Additional runs from Jasmyne Watson (18), Lucy Humphreys (11), and Eloise Escott (11) helped the side over the line.
Bovey lost two early wickets at the start of their innings. Monica Gair scored 38 runs to help her side build up the run chase until she fell to the bowling of Bethany Holmes. Unfortunately, she wasn’t the only one, with Holmes taking 4 wickets. After Gair left the crease, no one else was able to build up runs and Bovey Tracey ended up 77 all out after 22 overs. With another win under their belt, Exmouth sit second in the table, 7 points behind Hatherleigh with 2 games in hand.
Division Three
Bradninch hosted Exmouth 2nds at Kensham Park for their first-ever Ladies' Day. After being sent in to bat, openers Caitlin Rodgers (55) and Emma Farley (40) put on a 100-run stand before both falling to the bowling of Laura Bradbury. Meg Acton (38*) and Fi Moran (50*) pushed on, bringing the total to 210 runs at the end of their innings.
Exmouth’s reply faltered early with captain Sarah Antonio out in the first over. Anna Higgins (38) offered resistance, but regular wickets from Bradninch’s bowlers saw the visitors bowled out for 134, sealing a 76-run victory. Off the pitch, Bradninch hosted a fantastic day with fundraising activities, a BBQ feast, and live music. The perfect matchday atmosphere!
The 35-over league takes a pause this weekend as all eyes turn to Bovey Tracey for the Super 8s Finals. Three titles are up for grabs on Sunday - follow live updates on the Tolchards Devon Women’s Cricket League Facebook page to see who will be crowned 2025 Champions!
