Berkshire Men’s 1st XI v Devon – NCCA Trophy Preview
Berkshire return to NCCA Trophy action this weekend as they welcome Devon to Falkland CC, with both sides looking to build momentum in what is expected to be a competitive group-stage encounter.
There is a settled feel to the Berkshire squad once again, with continuity remaining a strong feature of their selection policy so far this season. After a series of encouraging performances in recent fixtures including last weeks win in Hertfordshire – READ THE FULL MATCH REPORT HERE – Andy Rishton’s side will be keen to maintain their upward trajectory and deliver another composed, all-round display on home soil.
Berkshire Squad:
Connell
Lewis
Isbell
Dunnett
Woods
Salter
MacEwen (wk)
Rishton (C)
Greatwood
Akhtar
Daniel
Bhandari
Rishton continues to lead a side that is steadily developing structure and clarity across all departments. The emphasis in recent matches has been on building partnerships and sustaining pressure over long periods, rather than relying on short bursts of dominance, and that approach will again be central against a capable Devon outfit.
With the bat, Berkshire will be looking to their top order to set the tone. Connell, Lewis, Isbell and Dunnett have all shown glimpses of form in recent outings, and the importance of one of them converting a start into a significant innings is likely to be a key factor at Falkland CC. Early stability will be especially valuable if conditions offer assistance to the seamers.
The middle order, featuring Woods, Salter and skipper Rishton, provides the side with flexibility and experience. Rishton’s role in particular remains pivotal, offering control through the middle overs and the ability to adjust tempo depending on match situation. Woods and Salter add further depth, both capable of rebuilding after early wickets or accelerating if a platform is established.
Behind the stumps, MacEwen continues to be an important presence in the lower order. His ability to contribute valuable runs down the order has already proven significant in recent fixtures, and that support from 6–8 could once again prove decisive in a tightly contested match.
With the ball, Berkshire will look to Greatwood and Akhtar to provide early penetration, supported by Daniel and Bhandari as part of a broader, shared bowling attack. The emphasis on rotation and collective responsibility has been a feature of Berkshire’s recent approach, helping maintain pressure even when wickets are not immediately forthcoming.
Much of Berkshire’s success is likely to hinge on early control with the ball and disciplined fielding support through the middle overs. Against a Devon side that traditionally competes strongly in the longer formats of the game, sustained pressure will be essential.
From a Berkshire perspective, the blueprint remains consistent: build solid foundations with the bat, ensure partnerships are extended rather than isolated contributions, and maintain control through disciplined bowling spells.
At Falkland CC, where conditions can often reward patience and accuracy, Berkshire will be aiming for another composed and professional performance as they look to strengthen their position in the NCCA Trophy campaign.