Match Report

Percy Main Midweek XI opened their title-defending season with a 37-run win at home to Cramlington on Thursday evening, making the most of winning the toss and batting first. A superb opening partnership set the tone, with Sam Hogg blasting 61 from just 35 balls, including five sixes, while Anshad Pulayakalathil added a classy 55 from 41. The pair put on 92 for the first wicket and took the game away from the visitors early, allowing Percy Main to post a strong 138/4 from their 16 overs.

In reply, Cramlington were kept firmly in check by a disciplined all-round bowling effort and an excellent display in the field. Energy and attitude were spot on throughout, with sharp work saving runs and maintaining pressure across the innings. Anshad capped a fine all-round performance with the key breakthrough, while Blyth Duncan Jnr was his usual miserly self with the ball, conceding just 18 from his four overs. Despite a steady unbeaten 50 from Finley Parker, the visitors never got close to the required rate, finishing on 101/1.

A really pleasing team performance, combining big runs at the top with control in the field and with the ball. There were also club debuts for Drew Horsley and Patrick Philpot, both contributing to a strong showing in a well-earned home victory for The Main.