Saints in seventh heaven as Pauland Hayden accept the challenge

Put into bat, Eagles Azam Riyard (59), supported by Hasan (35), Hafiz (26), Ali Khan (32), Irfan Khan (21no) and Riwan (30no), set Saints a big target of 252 to win off 45 overs. With the score on 61-3 Hayden James’ quickfire 68 off 44 balls and Paul Brindle’s 48 off 33 balls laid the foundations and Stuart Savidge (29no) and Neil Machin (19no) completed the job.

The 2nd XI continued their fine form with another 10-wicket victory, this time against Goring at the Sydney West. Goring’s Toby Johnson (53) was the only batsman to contain Ollie Brookes (5-27 off 8.1) and Jon Kingcome (3-6 off 5) as the visitors were bowled out for 119 in 37 overs. Iain Murray then continued his fine form with the bat, scoring 55 not out. He was well supported this time by Owen Male (51no) as they took just 17 overs to reach their target.

Saints’ 3rds suffered their third defeat in a row in a tightly fought game at Goodwood. Asked to bat first, Chichester’s Ollie Troy batted through the innings for 122 in setting up a target of 239 from 40 overs. Despite Sakif Zafar’s 83, supported by skipper Barry Holmes (46) and Edwin Dale (41no), Saints fell short by seven runs. The 3rds will need to refocus their efforts for the second part of the season.

The St Andrews U12 team claimed a semi final victory over favourites Preston Nomads at the Sydney West ground last week.

The visitors were given a good start by Dylan Gifford (25) and despite two wickets for Oliver Byatt, they made 144 in their 20 overs.

Saints openers Jack Cooper and Ben Noble produced some big shots to score 50 off seven overs but then Nomads picked up four quick wickets before Archie Kirk (26no) and Joe Edwards (25no) emerged the heroes.