Finchley 200-9 dec Winchmore Hill 88

Middlesex County League Division One

Finchley's hopes of reversing four successive defeats took an early blow on Saturday when opening bowler Willem Louw broke his foot.

Louw was batting in the nets before the match with Winchmore Hill and had to go to hospital.

A massive mopping-up operation following Friday's torrential rain allowed the game to go ahead after a delay of only 20 minutes.

But Finchley must have wondered if it had all been worthwhile after making their now customary poor start, losing Martin Decouwe and Robbie Hodges with only three runs on the board.

But they responded with a resolve that had been lacking recently, with skipper Keerthi Ranasinghe (29) leading by example.

Sid Nair helped him add 39 before both fell in quick succession, which left them on a perilous 42-4.

Fears that another collapse was imminent were dispelled by Suminda Balage-Don (47) and Jake Milton (19), who put on 42.

The good work was continued by Sarel Cilliers (39) and Josh Knappett (17 not out) in a seventh-wicket stand of 41. Ranasinghe declared at 200-9.

Winchmore Hill were soon in dire straits at 47-4, with Ranasinghe claiming the first three wickets at a cost of 10 runs in 13 overs.

Cilliers (5-29 off 17 overs) had a magnificent spell, and the visitors were shot out for 88.

What a timely boost for Finchley. After moving off the bottom of the table, they are away to leaders Teddington on Saturday, the only side to have won all their five games.

Finchley begin their Evening Standard Trophy campaign at home to Bexley on Sunday, which starts at 1pm.

Teddington II 147 (Roger Ford 4-48, Eddie Hodges 3-22), Finchley II 13l-8 (Mark Hodges 52, Eddie Hodges 32 no).

June 11, 2002 18:00