Ashling CC v Portsmouth Community CC

Ashling Fall Short Despite Stirring Late Rally

Ashling closed their 2026 campaign with an 18‑run defeat to Portsmouth Community CC at Down Street, a result that belied a dramatic late surge led by captain Will Chrystal.

Portsmouth, having won the toss, made steady progress throughout their innings to post 217 for 6. Retired half‑centuries from Dave Going (50) and James Griffiths (51) underpinned the visitors’ total, while Ashling’s attack was led by James Lander, who claimed 4 for 43, and James Bailey, who returned 2 for 18.

Ashling’s reply began brightly with 44 on the board before the first wicket fell, but momentum soon evaporated as a collapse left them reeling at 127 for 9. With defeat seemingly inevitable, Chrystal mounted a defiant rearguard, compiling a superb 75, and finding unexpected support from No. 11 Steve Harvey, who finished unbeaten on 1.

Together they added 72 for the final wicket, dragging Ashling to 199 and briefly threatening an extraordinary comeback. Ultimately, the target remained just out of reach, leaving Ashling to reflect on a spirited but unsuccessful finale to their season.