Winnington Park’s 2nd XI battled to a draw away at Stockport Trinity to keep themselves in the promotion places in the TACS Partnership Cheshire Cricket League Division C.
In a swelteringly hot day in Stockport, Park captain Phill Amatiello won the toss and elected to bowl.
Opening bowler James Hanson (2-43) took a bit of punishment but eventually claimed the wickets of Graham and Cairns to leave Trinity on 32-2.Stu Moniz (0-26) bowled tightly from the other end without reward, but when his 15-over spell finished, Trinity began to accelerate. Opener Pardo hit 50 and Kurian made 49 coming in at four, but both were outshone by Malik whose knock of 70 came from just 29 balls and included eight sixes. There were wickets for Joe Paterson (2-58), Sam Barnes (1-35) and Bailey Metzinger (1-24) but Trinity still declared on an impressive 218-6.
In similar style to the teams’ first meeting of the season, Park managed to bat through their overs to earn a draw.
Chris Johns top scored in the innings with 39, and Joe Paterson played an important and unbeaten 13 from 51 balls as Park finished on 122-7. Winnington never really looked in danger of being bowled out, only Trinity captain Jim Hegarty (4-30) caused significant damage.
Park earned seven points for the draw and extend their unbeaten run to four games. They will look to continue their promotion push at home to Chelford on Saturday.
Stockport Trinity (218-6)
Winnington Park (122-7)
Draw Trinity 16pts WPCC 7pts