On a scorching hot day at local rivals, Shoreham, Kemsing skipper Grahame Wood won the toss and decided to bat first on a dry wicket, which was strangely soft.
The Wood family opening partnership (Grahame, 24 & Jake, 13) were both out with the score on 44, which brought together James Walkling (55) and Damien Saville (35), who batted carefully, initially, before showing off their exciting array of shots, in putting on 84 excellent runs for the 3rd wicket.
There was a flurry of scampered and biffed runs from the middle order, which got Kemsing to a very competitive, above par 177-5 on a difficult wicket.
Shoreham’s reply did not get off to a good start, as Walkling, bidding for All-rounder of the Season, took a wicket in the first over. By the time he had finished his allocation of nine overs, he had demolished the top order, with 3-12, making it very difficult for Shoreham.
Enter veteran Roger Shaddock, who teased the middle order with some left-arm spin, taking 4-37, as Shoreham went into T20 mode. Skipper Wood (2-12) then polished off the last two wickets in consecutive balls to give Kemsing a comfortable win, as Shoreham were dismissed for 124 in the 31st over.
Other results in Division 3 were unexpected, meaning Kemsing are now 3rd, four points above Bidborough, who they play next week, and five points behind Ightham. Kemsing must win the last two games to stand any chance of promotion and hope for another set of favourable results from other teams.
PLEASE NOTE THIS MATCH REPORT WAS SUPPLIED BY KEMSING CRICKET CLUB AND HAS ONLY BEEN EDITED BY SEVENOAKS SPORTS.
