Westbury all-rounder rises to the big occasion (From This Is Wiltshire)

Westbury all-rounder rises to the big occasion

10:03am Thursday 23rd July 2009 in

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Cricket: Biddestone coach Ron Needham admits their promotion push is now dependent on other sides faltering after their loss to league leaders Westbury on Saturday.

The clash had been billed as a potential title decider as batsman Martin Sawyer told the Wiltshire Times last week how a loss could be fatal to his side’s title hopes.

Having been put into bat first, Biddestone’s batsmen struggled to deal with seamer-friendly conditions to allow Westbury an easier than expected run chase to move 45 points clear of their rivals.

“It’s not in our hands now,” said Needham.

“We’ve lost three games and they’ve lost one. That is the difference.

“It’s a downer but we’ll play on to enjoy our cricket and see where we finish.”

Vice-captain Sawyer (22), and fellow opener James Mitchell (25), had given Biddestone a solid start but the wicket of skipper Dwaine Perry (19) proved a turning point.

The visitors then lost three quick wickets, including a stunning catch by Scott Lewis to dismiss dangerous overseas player Nishanta Bordoloi, to de-rail their momentum.

“He took a blinder,” enthused Westbury captain Joe Breet.

“He was at mid-wicket and it was over his head, diving backwards. It’s one of the best catches I’ve ever seen.

“I think that was a turning point in the game.”

Wicket-keeper Tom Mitchell (52 not out) restored some pride for Biddestone with an aggressive 50.

Brannon Varley, who earlier took 2-36 with the ball, completed his man-of-the-match display with an aggressive 77 not out to see Westbury home.

The hosts lost both openers early but the number four, with help from Breet (30), took control with an innings that included 11 boundaries.

“Brannon dominated from ball one and changed the momentum,” said Breet.

“We bowled well and gave ourselves a chance. Everyone chipped in with the ball.

“Rommell King had another very good day behind the stumps with a couple of good catches.

“To be honest, it was a real team effort from us.”

Westbury face another test to their promotion credentials this weekend when they visit second-placed Swindon.

“We are quite confident but there is a long way to go,” said Breet.

Biddestone will host bottom club Wootton Bassett.