A COMPREHENSIVE nine-wicket victory saw Himbleton climb back to the top of Division Three of the Worcestershire County League.
The Meadow Boys welcomed back their captain Jon Critchlow after five week’s out through injured and he made a winning return against Ross on Wye.
Critchlow and Alastair Pretty both made 31 while Stuart Dickenson hit a half century as Himbleton chased down Ross’s score of 134 for victory.
This came after a thrilling performance from the visitors’ bowlers as Ross soon found themselves 80-4 with Sam Jenkins and Mike Rogers getting among the wickets.
James Tiffen managed to get to 35, but this turned out to be the home side’s highest score as he was dismissed by Paul Guy with Critchlow taking the catch.
Rogers got three more wickets to finish with figures of 4-25, while Guy and Jamie Alford removed Michael Jeffryes and Ben Element respectively to put Himbleton firmly in control.
After a strong start to their innings, Critchlow fell after being trapped LBW by Tiffen, but Himbleton remained on the front foot and soon got to the victory target.
Dickenson (51) reached a well deserved half century with the shot of the day with a straight six before Pretty pushed a single through mid wicket to win the game.
Himbleton will be aiming to maintain their league position when they face Avoncroft at home tomorrow (Saturday).
