WIMBORNE & COLEHILL 163 (7pts) lost to DORCHESTER 240-9 (20pts) by 77 runs
DORCHESTER’S James Dunham produced a sublime spell of bowling to help his side get over the line against Wimborne & Colehill.
The county town seamer bowled 10 overs straight through in energy-sapping heat at the Leaze to claim outstanding figures of 4-13, with his wickets coming at an average of just 3.25 runs apiece.
He set the tone as Dorchester defended their total of 240-9 set earlier in the day, mainly thanks to an opening stand of 106 between Dan Belt (56) and Will McKay (72).
The view of the contest at the Leaze on Saturday Picture: David DuValle
Club captain Simon Mitchem said: “It’s a great win for us. It’s not very often everyone contributes and they did in this game. We set the tone right from the off racking up 240.
“James Dunham was absolutely superb. It was great to have him back.
“He put the ball in great areas and got his rewards. We backed him up in the field and it was brilliant to ask that of him in that heat.
“Dan and Will set a platform for us. We were a bit disappointed we didn’t get 280, which we could have done but, with our bowling attack, we were more than happy to bowl at 240.”
Batting first, McKay and Belt set the base as the visitors looked to be heading to a mammoth score against the reigning league champions.
But four wickets for Wimborne’s Tom Caines pulled things back, as Dorchester had to settle for 240-9 from their 50 overs.
And Dunham’s opening spell ensured the home side were never really in contention in the chase, having been 47-5 at one stage.
A knock of 62 from 69 balls from James Williams offered some resistance for the hosts but with as many as eight bowling options used, Dorchester’s depth helped them to a comfortable win and maximum points.
Mitchem added: “It’s nice for us to go out there and put runs on the board because I know a few people seem to be very opinionated and thought that we couldn’t do it with the bat.
“Winning gives you confidence and we have our confidence back.
“We are really playing as a team now and there is a great feeling among everyone.”
The victory leaves the county town side fifth in the league table, one point behind Sherborne.
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