Middlewich 1st XI hosted Mobberley on Saturday looking to bounce back but were handed a sobering 9-wicket defeat after being comprehensively outplayed by a strong side.

Winning the toss and electing to bat, Middlewich never quite got going. Despite some fight in the middle order from Caleb McLaren (33) and Matt Allen (32), no partnership was able to take control, with wickets falling at regular intervals. Mobberley’s bowling attack, led by Liam Burgess (3-26) and Sohaib Ahsan (3-29), were relentless with line and length. The innings closed at 157 all out in 42.1 overs.

In response, Mobberley made light work of the chase. Despite an early breakthrough from Ryan Jones, it was one-way traffic as Ibrar Latif (85* off 55) launched a brutal counterattack, ably supported by Will Berisford-Ince (41* off 84). The pair’s unbroken stand of 115 saw the hosts home comfortably in just 26.4 overs.

The result leaves Middlewich with just 2 points from the fixture and a real need to regroup ahead of the next round. Plenty to work on, but belief remains that the side can turn the tide with a response next weekend.

Top Performers:
• Caleb McLaren 33 (53 balls)
• Matt Allen 32 (43 balls)
• Ryan Jones 6-3-7-1 (the only wicket taker)

Next up: A chance to put things right and find some momentum.