Radlett's tendency to throw away matches almost shone through again in a nail-biting match against Kings Langley on Saturday.

But, in the end, the steel nerves of the graceful John Crocker saw the Cobden Hill side win by a one wicket margin.

Kings Langley had won the toss and batted. Captain Andy Saunders opened the bowling and the pace of Chris Brown was later allied to the wily spin of Tasmanian David Hegarty.

Langley batted steadily, but after the first wicket fell on 64, their young side lost wickets at regular intervals, and were bowled out for 155 in 48 overs.

Sudbury took four good wickets, but it was Hegarty who caught the eye, with figures of 4-28 off 24 overs.

Kings Langley had a young side, bristling with enthusiasm, and their opening bowler is certainly the quickest in the division. Radlett's reply was far from convincing.

At 50-3 only four runs had not been scored by Ingram and extras. Ten minutes later it was 58-5, and it seemed that only Smithers stood between Radlett and defeat.

So it proved, with Smithers (46) batting powerfully, supported by some skilful batting from the lower order. Crocker batted with great intelligence to see Radlett through to victory, with a vital 20 not out.

Radlett's bowling and fielding were enthusiastic, and morale is high in a side that has a good team feeling. Ceri Luffman is a class act behind the stumps, and his performances have lifted the team.

The Cobden Hill side were lucky to win another close match, but they are now in fifth place in the division and further success may yet see them gain promotion at the end of the season.

Radlett III 156-9

Kings Langley II 155 all out

Saracens Herts League

Division Five

July 3, 2002 15:00