Taunton Deane continued their good early season form with a comfortable victory over Ilminster.

Winning the toss and deciding to bat first, the Deane lost opener Sam Underdown early when the score was just 14. This saw Lorenzo Machado on his league debut join Jack Fraser on a wicket that was providing some assistance for the bowlers.

A slower than usual outfield, combined with good bowling from Loius Kraucamp and Harry Montacute saw scoring runs difficult. With the score at only 28 from 10 overs, the two Deane batsmen had clearly knuckled down to try and get through a difficult period.

Bowling changes ensured that the early pressure could not be sustained. Both Fraser and Machado slowly started to gain the ascendency. Excellent placement and running between the wickets put the pressure on the Ilminster bowlers who began to become more inconsistent and wayward. The pair put on 161 before Fraser fell for a well made 80.

New batsmen came and went as the Deane looked to increase the run rate. However, it was soon evident that it was a difficult wicket to get started on, and when Machado was run out for an excellent 81, the momentum slowed. A useful 25 from Sam Shaikh ensured the Deane ended with a very competitive 266 from their 50 overs.

The Ilminster innings got off to a dreadful start with young opening bowler Ed Mellor taking 2 wickets in his first over, including the dangerous Kraucamp. Further wickets to Mellor and Rob Pryke saw Ilminster falter to 42-4 from 10 overs, essentially taking them out of the game.

What followed was a steady bowling and fielding performance from the Deane and they were always in control of the match. Useful contributions from Craig Rice(45no), Sam Spurway(35) and Harry Montacute(26) saw Ilminster battle gamely.

However, 4 wickets for Mellor and 3 wickets for Pryke saw Ilminster dismissed for 188, ensuring a comfortable victory for the Deane.

Phil Saxby