Llamas defeated despite late fightback

When Reigate travelled to Sunbury earlier this season, a record-breaking 167* from skipper Richie Oliver secured a memorable victory by 9 wickets chasing 305. Sunbury would therefore have been delighted when Richie was dismissed for only 19 having won the toss and elected to bat. Reigate struggled to build partnerships through their innings, however contributions from the Australian trio of Andy Delmont (59*), James Crosthwaite (52) and Alex Ross (35) took Reigate to a below par, but competitive score of 215/8.

Reigate could not have foreseen what was to follow as an onslaught on their bowlers during the first 10 over powerplay virtually won the game for Sunbury. They raced to an incredible 129/1 in these overs as opener Sam Burgess raced to a century in only 40 balls. When he was caught on the boundary for 108 in the 12th over looking for another six, it appeared the result was a formality, however a dramatic fightback from Reigate brought them back into the game.

Harry McInley, reinvented as an off-spinner and playing his first Surrey Championship game for 5 years took 2/37, and 15 year-old seamer George McLoughlin claimed a wicket with his first ball of an impressive debut. The Llamas were able to build pressure in the field, Richie leading the way with a diving one-handed catch at cover. At 193/7 the result was in the balance, however Sunbury managed to score the 23 runs required to win by 3 wickets.

Reigate remain 3rd, however will need help from the leading sides East Molesey and Wimbledon to remain in contention for a title challenge.