Berkshire Crowned NCCA 50-Over Champions with Emphatic Final Victory
Berkshire produced a superb all-round performance to be crowned NCCA 50-over champions, defeating Cheshire by 112 runs at Copdock Cricket Club after a clinical display with both bat and ball.
After winning the toss, captain Andy Rishton elected to bat first, a decision that ultimately proved inspired as Berkshire recovered from a difficult start to post a competitive 210.
The innings was in trouble at 48 for 4, but Ben Salter produced a magnificent knock under pressure. Displaying composure and class, Salter struck 49 from 61 balls, sharing a crucial fifth-wicket partnership with Euan Woods, who top-scored with an excellent 59. Together they rebuilt the innings, absorbing the pressure before accelerating to give Berkshire a platform from which to attack.
Useful contributions from Andrew MacEwen (29) and Toby Greatwood (15) ensured Berkshire pushed beyond the 200-mark, finishing on 210 all out in 46.4 overs. Cheshire’s Andrew Jackson claimed two wickets, while Henry Dobson picked up three.
Defending 210, Berkshire’s bowlers were backed by outstanding fielding from the very first overs. Toby Greatwood removed Dan Newton early before the defining moment of the final arrived.
With Cheshire beginning to settle, captain Sam Perry looked well placed to guide the chase. However, an exceptional piece of fielding from James Isbell produced a brilliant run out that swung the momentum firmly Berkshire’s way. Perry’s dismissal for 23 halted Cheshire’s recovery and lifted Berkshire’s energy in the field, proving to be the pivotal moment of the match.
From there, Berkshire tightened their grip. Ben Salter was simply immense with the ball, producing a spell worthy of a final as he tore through the middle order. His outstanding figures of 4 for 11 from six overs removed George Lavelle, Fred Vaughan-Hawkins, Henry Dobson and Henry Murray to leave Cheshire reeling.
There was no way back as the Berkshire attack maintained relentless pressure. Sulaiman Akhtar finished with 3 for 10, while Euan Woods and Toby Greatwood each claimed a wicket as Cheshire were dismissed for just 98 in 34.4 overs.
It was a complete team performance, expertly led by captain Andy Rishton, whose leadership, tactical decisions and calm influence were evident throughout the day. Choosing to bat first, marshalling his bowlers superbly and keeping the intensity high in the field, Rishton guided Berkshire to a memorable championship victory.
Ben Salter was deservedly named Player of the Match after his match-defining all-round display. His vital 49 rescued Berkshire’s innings before his devastating four-wicket spell put the final beyond Cheshire’s reach.
Backed by outstanding fielding, highlighted by James Isbell’s game-changing run out, Berkshire completed a dominant 112-run victory to lift the NCCA 50-over title in style.
Full Match Scorecard – Click Here
Finally a guge thanks as always to Copdock & Old Ipswichian CC for hosting a great final and the fantastic Roger Byrne for his brilliant photos of the day