Minchinhampton 2nd XI were hosted by Hardwicke 2nd XI on a hot windy day in Gloucester. Minch won the toss and batted first on a hard track in perfect batting conditions. Openers John Creedon and Matt Hole came out and batted with confidence, finding the boundary with ease, racking up 40 in the first 4 overs. Hole was looking particularly destructive putting away anything loose. However a mistimed shot saw him depart for 24 and when Jack Richards took to the crease for his first knock of the season he started where Hole had left off taking on the Hardwicke bowling. Runs we’re flowing but Hardwicke managed to prise out Creedon for a 33 and Richards for a quick fire 29, both players getting out caught. This brought together Tom Richings and skipper Tom Shearman, both previously on a lean streak with the bat. Richings found the boundary easily as did Shearman with runs flowing at both ends. Some lusty blows found both players reaching their 50s with ease and Richings finally fell for 63, his maiden Minch 50. Shearman a fine captains knock, 53not out and a partnership of 120 for the 3rd wicket. Minch racked up 233 for 4 from their 40 overs. Hardwicke’s bowlers stuck to their guns throughout in hot conditions.