Theakston Nidderdale League: Birstwith CC batsmen pile on the runs in opening-day triumph

Tom Croston’s men racked up a mammoth total of 355/5 against visiting Blubberhouses.

Having won the toss and elected to bat, the hosts dispatched the away attack to all parts of the ground.

Craig Robinson top-scored with 90, while Sam Ryan (52) also managed a half-century.

James Riley (47), Jon Millward (38 not out) and Croston (34) also batted well, before Pete Hardisty took centre stage with the ball.

He claimed 4-42 as Blubberhouses were dismissed for 178 despite Umaid Sajjad’s knock of 37.

Darley were another side to post a decent score, putting 256/7 on the board when they travelled to Harrogate 3rds.

Gary Muff stuck 62, Jordan King 43 and Jim Grange 39 to put the away side in control.

Matt Ingham made 34 in reply, though a devastating spell of bowling by Rob Nelson (5-18) saw the Roosters sent packing on 126.

West Tanfield endured an afternoon to forget as they were skittled for just 69 at Helperby.

The hosts made their way to 221/7 from their 45 overs thanks largely to the efforts of Luis Rees-Hughes (60) and Daniel Spink (46).

And Tanfield were blown away when they took their turn at the crease, finishing up 152 runs short as Joe Corner helped himself to a five-wicket haul.

Kirk Deighton also failed to progress into three figures at home to Goldsborough.

Four wickets apiece for David James and Graham Shorter got rid of Louie Toseland’s side with only 95 to their name, leaving the visitors with a relatively simple run-chase.

Damon Ive (34 not out) and Mike Cockle (33 not out) then guided Goldsborough to an eight-wicket triumph in 25 overs.

Pateley Bridge required slightly fewer deliveries to knock off the target of 132 set for them by Masham.

James Crawfurd-Porter (56 not out) hit a half-century and Ben Mountain added 41 to finish the job inside 24 overs.

Burton Leonard skipper Sam Crawshaw led by example, weighing in with 69 of his team’s 132 all out against Ouseburn.

His efforts would however prove to be in vain as Pete Carr (57 not out) and Josh Bennison (50 not out) steered the away side to 133/2.