The 1st XI made a powerful statement against St Cross Symondians 2nd XI, chasing down a challenging total of 299 with authority and composure. After the hosts posted their total on the back of half-centuries from Harden and Trussler, Sparsholt’s top order took control in reply. Leading the charge was Robbie Skeates, who struck a magnificent 132 from 111 balls, anchoring the innings with both fluency and power. He was well supported by Fuller, who contributed a measured 52, and Gurney 35, as Sparsholt chased the total with confidence, finishing on 301 for 5 to record a five-wicket win.
Skeates was far from finished. The very next day, representing the NVKO XI, he delivered another outstanding innings, compiling 100 off 95 balls in a commanding team total of 333/6 against Easton & Martyr Worthy CC. Sparsholt’s innings was a display of control and acceleration, with Skeates and Gurney 72 adding 150 for the second wicket. The late innings power came from Southgate, who blasted 50 from just 24 balls, including five sixes, and Doran (23 off 15), who ensured Sparsholt finished with a flourish. In reply, Easton had no answers to Sparsholt’s clinical bowling attack and were bowled out for 87, handing Sparsholt a crushing 246-run win.
Meanwhile, in the Hampshire League, Sparsholt 2nd XI secured another impressive win, this time over Colden Common, Otterbourne & Sporting Wessex CC. The foundation was laid by Josh Stanbrook-Tompkins, who held the innings together with a composed and technically sound 105 from 117 balls. He shared a vital fourth-wicket stand with Skeoch, who played positively for his 77 from 64 deliveries. Sparsholt reached a competitive 284 before applying consistent bowling pressure to restrict the opposition and close out a 58-run victory.
The final piece of the club’s weekend success came courtesy of 14-year old Greg McEwan, who produced a sensational spell in the Hampshire Cricket League against Whiteparish CC. Defending a modest total of 163, Sparsholt were under pressure before McEwan ripped through the middle and lower order with a match-winning burst of 5 for 14, helping dismiss the opposition just seven runs short of the target.
It was a weekend to remember for the club. Sparsholt now look ahead to their next round of fixtures full of momentum and confidence, aiming to carry this winning form deep into the season.
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