With all the rain that had fallen in the week, we knew that once again we'd be on a green, damp wicket and that winning the toss would be a vital first step in gaining the 6 points.

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Unfortunately, Steve West called incorrectly and the Harden Skipper had no hesitation in inviting us to bat first. Openers Tim Hales and Paul Phillips began cautiously, knowing that wickets in hand at the end of the innings would be vital if we were to post a competitive total.

Things went to plan for the first half of our innings, both openers taking advantage of some wayward bowling and some generous fielding and by drinks, we had racked up our first century opening stand. The first wicket fell with the score on 128, Tim Hales departing for 70. Andy Stevens, starting his first game of the season, came in at three and instantly set about the Harden attack.

The score had moved on to nearly 200 before Paul was finally out for a patient 57. Andy soon followed for a run-a-ball 48. Steve Plummer and Guy Hollis kept the scoreboard ticking over until Steve was bowled which brought Barry Singleton to the crease. He took an instant liking to the Harden attack, bludgeoning a quick-fire 34 from only 15 balls, including 3 huge sixes.

The North Leeds innings ended after 50 overs with Barry and skipper Steve West at the crease, and 254-5 on the board. The second half began with Abid Ali and Mark Singleton taking the new ball. Unfortunately this week, both bowlers failed to take a wicket and it wasn't long before Barry Singleton took over from his brother and was quickly among the wickets.

Baz took seven wickets on his last visit to Harden in 2006 and we were hoping for a repeat performance this time around. He was easily the best bowler on show and finished with figures of 20-12-28-6.

Young Andrew Cheeseman took one wicket and Andy Stevens finished the Harden innings off ending with figures of 4.4-3-6-2. 160 all out and victory to The North by 94 runs.

Bilton travel to The Homestead next weekend where we will be looking to continue our unblemished start to the season.