Cricket: Second Division - Enfield 182-8, N Middlesex 183-5

Published: 30 June, 2011
by STEVE BARNETT

THE ever-improving Joe Hewton and Will Nicoll were in outstanding form on Saturday as North Middlesex recorded their first win of the season away at Enfield. 

Captain Alex Hill might have been regretting his decision to send his team into field first when openers Neil Tilley and Jack Plumb took the score beyond 60 without loss in the 13th over. 

Things started to change, however, when Dexter Thomas entered the attack and quickly took the prize wicket of Tilley for 41 runs in his second over. 

The introduction of spinner Nicoll proved a match-winning decision as he took 5-53 in a devastating 17-over spell that included five maidens. 

Enfield used all their experience to score some late runs as they ended their 55 over stint on 182-8. 

The Midd made the worst possible start to their innings with openers Adam Holmes and Hill scoring just five and nine runs respectively. 

The visitors looked a long way away from their first league victory, especially without the prolific Evan Flowers in their line-up. 

Hewton, however, was ready to step up to the challenge and showed great shot selection as he scored 59 not out to offer North Middlesex some much-needed stability. Thomas also made a vital contribution as he hit 42 not out off a 20 deliveries, including three sixes, to help The Midd seal a six-wicket victory with a winning score of 183-5 off 41 overs.