Cricket: Tom Evans and Tom Mitchell make defiant last stand for crisis hit Widnes in Chapel Press Cheshire County League ECB Premier Division

Jul 2 2009 Runcorn and Widnes Weekly News

FACING being demoted to bottom spot and almost certain relegation from Cheshire County League’s ECB Premier Division if a 128-point deduction against them is upheld, Widnes defiantly forced a high-scoring home draw against Hyde.

Chasing the Tamesiders’ daunting 279-3, most of the Beaconsfield Road batsmen made runs but the pressure of trying to overhaul such a huge total took its toll. But a determined last-wicket stand between Tom Evans (10no) and Tom Mitchell (13no) foiled Hyde’s victory hopes as Widnes held on at 256-9.

Ex-Pakistan international seamer Ata-ur-Rehman, whose against-the-rules appearance in a Central Lancashire game for Heywood has left Widnes’ top-flight future on the brink pending an appeal, was absent due to his rest-of-the-season suspension imposed by the league.

But Luke McCoy and Ben Williams returned to bolster the batting. Hyde’s total on an excellent track came in 55 overs with James Duffy making an outstanding 107no. Evans claimed 2-41 from eight overs while fellow young spinner Mitchell bowled well.

In reply, Zia-ur-Rehman (56), Tony Hurdley (38), skipper Ian Spencer (35), Williams (27), Paul Roberts (22) plus James McCoy and Alex Duckers (21 each) all made runs. Widnes 2nds won by seven wickets at Hyde, knocking off the 64 required in eleven overs.

This Saturday, Widnes 1st host Macclesfield (12.30pm).