Billingshurst skip happy to continue strong start

Newly promoted Billingshurst have made a good start to life in Division Two

Against a strong side only just relegated from the top flight, ‘Hurst were on course for victory at 122-2, chasing down 203.

But Worthing’s overseas fast bowler Corey Altis then ripped through the visitor’s batting order and in the end visiting skipper Ben Williams was happy to take a draw. Williams said: “It was a tough, tight game which we could easily have won. We were only 80 behind with two wickets down but their Aussie came back for his second spell and tore through us.”

Williams was delighted to hold the hosts to 203-7, especially given they were 129-2 at one point on a flat track. Spinner Williams took both key wickets in one over to break a century stand. Scott Stratton took a fine catch at mid wicket to dismiss Benn Challen for 57, and wicketkeeper Rob Woodman, who impressed after a late call up, pouched a catch off Nick Oxley for the same score. Nick Ballamy added a quick 39 to just get Worthing over 200.

In reply Scott Stratton continued to impress with a knock of 65, and partnering Mike Burroughs (33), they had ‘Hurst well in the hunt. Altis (5-46) came back to cause the collapse and Shane West and Williams took the decision to see out the draw. “Scott and Mike batted fantastically together,” Williams said, adding: “Like Middleton last week Worthing will be up there so we’re competing well.”