Batting first the Green started slowly after the early loss of opener Darren Craythorne. James Hemmings (19) and Chris Heyes cautiously repaired the damage with a second wicket of stand of 67. This provided a platform for an acceleration in scoring in the second half of the innings, Heyes top scoring with 56, whilst Mike Elliott (25 not out), captain Matt Harding (18) and Teginda Kaleka (16) provided valuable runs down the order as the Green were bowled out for 173 in the final over. Hayes was the pick of the Holyport bowlers with three wickets.
With league leaders Denham not playing, Pinkneys knew a successful defence of their total would be enough to be crowned champions. Holyport started their pursuit with purpose reaching 31 without loss in the first six overs. Two wickets in two balls from man of the match Heyes pegged the home team back, quickly followed by a third. It was then the turn of his opening batting partner Craythorne to impress with the ball, taking 2-24 in a tidy spell, the second wicket featuring a great catch by Anthony Fuller. Holyport continued to press their claim for victory, Head top scoring with 36, but the return of Heyes to the attack saw him take his fourth wicket, and signalled the beginning of the end, as the innings closed on 155 and allowed the celebrations to begin.
This title win albeit in a shortened season reflects a magnificent renaissance for the second string who were in danger of folding at the end of last season.
Back at the Green the 1st XI closed their Morrant Chiltern & Mid Bucks Premiership campaign with a comfortable win over Coleshill. An entertaining knock of 84 by Vinay Mopur was the highlight of a first innings total of 245. In reply the visitors were bowled out for 169, Will Heyes taking 4-22 to complete a good day’s cricket following a score of 40 with the bat. This means Pinkneys finish runners up.