Excellent Instonians seal win over leaders CIYMS

Chasing 139 for victory, Nigel Jones’ CI could only manage 128 for eight in their 20 overs. James Magee starred with the ball for the hosts, taking three for 21 in his four over allocation; claiming the scalps of Jason van der Merwe (5), James Cameron-Dow (4) and David Millar (6). In pursuit of their fourth league win in a row, CI got off to a good start with John Matchett (25) and Chris Dougherty (43) putting on 48 for the first wicket, before the former was run out by Oliver Metcalfe in the eighth over. Dougherty and Jacob Mulder (16) shared a 37-run partnership in the next four overs, before Dougherty was bowled by Andrew White. At 85 for two with eight overs left, CI were well placed to claim victory but Instonians had other ideas. The hosts took five wickets in as many overs, with fielders holding catches well – putting the pressure on their visitors. CI needed 15 runs off the last over, but could only manage four during a sublime final over from young James Hunter – ensuring that Instonians secured the victory. Earlier in the afternoon, White won the toss and elected to bat on the artificial pitch. Metcalfe and Shane Getkate put on 36 together to lay the foundation for Instonians. Two wickets in the ninth over had White’s side in a spot of bother at 45 for three, but Ben Rose and Marcus Poskitt steadied things – adding 30 in four overs. However, it was the seventh wicket partnership worth 56 that played a key part in the victory. Nikolai Smith (35*) combined with Hunter (22*) to propel their side to 138 for six in their 20 overs. The wickets were shared by four of the seven CI bowlers; with Trevor Brittain, David Robinson, Cameron-Dow, Jones and Mulder all taking a wicket each. Despite the defeat, CI remain at the top of the league table – only on net run-rate – as CSNI, North Down and Waringstown also have 12 points. CI entertain Waringstown at Belmont next Saturday as Instonians welcome Woodvale to Shaw’s Bridge.