Bennett sees Middleton through to Burton Cup final

Middleton Cricket Club

A dogged display of batting from Middleton captain, Rob Bennett secured his team’s passage to the Burton Cup final.

Batting first, the Royton side found themselves on the receiving end of an excellent bowling performance by Middleton, that saw them bowled out for 143 inside 38 overs. Mo Sohail being the pick of the bowlers picking up 3 wickets in his 10 overs. It was only some lusty blows by Matt England near the end that got his team up to a competitive total.

In reply, Middleton looked to be easing their way into their first final since 2012. But the loss of regular wickets and the pressure from the situation eventually caught up with them as they collapsed from 124 for 5 to 128 for 9. But with Bennett still at the crease there was always a chance of victory, he just needed a willing partner, and he found one in Harris.

They nudged their way upto the target, helped on the way by extras. With the scores tied, Bennett dispatched a full toss to the square leg boundary to cue celebrations from the Middleton faithful.

The final will take place on Monday 31 August against Clifton. The venue is yet to be decided.