Papplewick bounce back in fine style

Their fourth win, which left them sixth in the table, was a straight forward seven-wicket success at Attenborough.

The home side won the toss and chose to bat, but it went downhill from there.

Their batsmen struggled against the visitors’ attack with the highest score in the innings just 17 from Pete Bhabra in the middle-order — one of only two double-figure scores.

Attenborough’s chief tormentors with the ball were Matt Carter and Jim Rhodes.

First-change Carter claimed four for 22 from 32 overs.

Opening bowler Rhodes took four for 32 from 12 overs, including three maidens.

Rhodes’ opening partner, Jack Blatherwick, got the other two wickets, taking two for 24 in 10 overs.

Attenborough were eventually skittled for 91 in 34 overs.

Ben Bhabra grabbed a couple of wickets for Attenborough as Papplewick’s reply got off to a stuttering start.

The top three batsmen, captain Sam Ogrizovic, Harry Franklin and wicketkeeper Harry Ratcliffe, all went for single-figure scores to leave the visitors in trouble in the run-chase.

But Papplewick quickly weathered the storm and went on to claim the victory before the drinks interval.

Blatherwick again played a crucial role, striking an unbeaten 35, including five boundaries, as he scored at more than a run-a-ball.

Tim Wyatt hit four fours and a six in his 27 not out as the pair added an unbroken 62 for the fourth wicket.

Victory came in the 25th over and left Papplewick just 10 points off third-placed Cuckney on their return to the top tier.