At five points clear at the top of Division 2a and a British Rose Cup Final to look forward to, Simon Gould’s re-energised second XI claimed two victories this weekend in the league and cup.

On Saturday they beat Sedbergh School by 75 runs bowling the hosts out for 88 with Andy Wier claiming 4 wickets and the consistent Jack Cunnington taking 3 for 8. Earlier they had set a total of 163 with key contributions from Gareth Bleasedale (50), Jake Gould (24), Simon Gould (28) and Ste Yates (21).

Full scorecard here: https://shires.play-cricket.com/website/results/4420795

League table here: https://westmorlandcricketleague.pitchero.com/match-info/tables?table_id=d-67759

On Sunday a bumper crowd at Clifton Park saw them victors in the semi-final of the British Rose Cup against arch rivals Westgate. Batting first, Shireshead posted 116 for 7 in their 20 overs owing largely to fine batting and a fine partnership of 69 between Jake Gould (47) and Gareth Bleasedale (25).

In reply, Westgate looked well short until Danny Wilkinson began to open his chest to make 30 before being caught in the deep by Bleasedale. Niggardly bowling all round and a fine fielding display kept the run-rate in check and Luke Bray claimed 4 wickets for 10 runs supported by Andy Wier who took another 2 wickets.