In a tense finish, Minor Counties won a remarkable match by two wickets, with five balls to spare.

Sir John Paul Getty's X1 had earlier amassed 282 – 0 wicket off 51 overs before declaring, leaving Minor Counties with what turned out to be 47 overs to respond.

David Ward was awesome as he dominated the earlier proceedings with magnificent stroke play in a chanceless opening partnership of 282 with Tim O'Gorman. Ward's 211 not out contained 35 fours and 4 sixes.

Minor Counties responded positively and kept up with the required run rate despite losing wickets regularly. Nagra contributed a stylish 61 off 37 balls and formed useful partnerships with Boroughs (26) and Dobson (44).

With the score at 144-6, Minor Counties looked to be heading for defeat but Ajaz Akhtar swept his way to a match-winning 78 not out to earn a two- wicket victory with 5 balls to spare.

The real winner was the Wormsley groundsman who provided a perfect batting wicket which made for excellent cricket and a match worthy of this delightful cricket ground.

© MCCA