A PHILLIPS run-fest saw NATS to success over Cricklade at Notgrove in Division One of the Sweetfuels CDCA on Saturday.

Cricklade won the toss and bravely asked the hosts to bat first on an excellent track.

Brothers Stuart (126*) and Andrew Phillips (114) then proceeded to put on a sparkling 242 for the first wicket leading NATS to a formidable 276-3. Ken Lawson (2-46) was the most successful bowler.

Faced with this mountain to climb most teams would have capitulated but Cricklade stuck to their task and made an excellent fist of the run-chase. Darren Fisher (84) and Danny Lloyd (59) led the way as the visitors racked up an impressive 246-9, although still finishing 30 runs short. Phil Cross (3-44) and Graham Bartlett (3-73) were the pick of the home bowlers.

Barnsley Beeches continued their impressive start to the season with a comfortable win at home to Adlestrop who have now lost their first three matches.

Having been asked to bat the hosts posted 189-9 with Qasim Ali (61) and Rob Howard (45) the principal contributors.

For the visitors Sam Keen (3-25) was the most effective bowler.

In reply, the Adlestrop innings got off to a disastrous start with four early wickets falling to Josh Odem (3-34) and Vijay Sankuratri (2-13). There was to be no recovery, only Matt Barnes (45) keeping the scorers busy as the innings petered out to 115-8 off the 40-over allocation.

At Cherington, visitors Oaksey were inserted on a soft track and never really got going. Wickets fell at regular intervals to Tom Redpath (3-15) and skipper Jay Ritchings (3-25) as Oaksey struggled to 102 all out with Andy Steward (32) top-scoring. After tea, wickets continued to fall but hosts Avening & Cherington reached 103-5 with ease mainly due to Stewart Hudd (33) and Mike Alley (29*).

At Pinkney Park previously unbeaten hosts Sherston Magna had a day to forget as they were blown away for 90 all out by an impressive spell from Hayden Elsdale (10-6-12-5) with good support from Jimmy Larner (3-21). After tea, visitors Stow-on-the-Wold took little time to knock off the runs as they reached 91-0 in the 20th over. Jimmy Larner (43*) capped an impressive all-round performance with good support from skipper Ash Andrews (41*).

Further worrying signs for grass roots cricket were heard from Oakridge where visitors Williamstrip conceded the match through being unable to raise a side.