from the boundary
News from Legendary statistician, Nicholas Evanson
updated DEVON CRICKET LEAGUE 2026 - ROUND 11
1ST XI
The 1st XI set off for a Pre-Match Breakfast well organised by Ed Smout Cooper at Bovey Tracey Golf Club but not before a bit of drama and we aren’t talking about the tragic murder of Anne Widdecombe not 10 minutes away from Bovey Tracey’s ground but “oh no who is picking up the warm up bag.” Benjamin Passenger please will you give your son 100 lines “I must get more organised.”
On arrival at the ground there was a little more drama – DACO could only find one umpire for the match, so Chris Sleep ironically their Appointments Officer had to do both ends with players doing Square League. Harry Pasenger led by example thus gaining a bit of kudos despite his earlier misdemeanour by taking his turn out in the middle.
Despite earlier rumours there was no Minute’s Silence for Anne Widdecombe nor was the flag flown at half-mast.
In the heat, TKCC wanted to win the toss and bat first. Hazza’s record with the toss is clearly improving and this was achieved. Alas there was a recurring theme with Josh “bish bosh out” Thompson soon out and he was soon joined back in the pavilion by Ben Pomare and Niall McCarthy. Not before the latter scored a 4 with the very first ball since re-joining the club. However, this left the stage clear for a sizzling run a ball, 102, by Ed Smout Cooper. TKCC were all out with a ball to go having scored 257 – the best of the BT bowlers being Hem Chetri with 4 for 30 and Gethin Williams with 3 for 33. Mention must be made of BT’s skipper, Seb Ansley with 3 catches although he did remarkably drop one.
In reply BT’s innings got off to a disastrous start with Jake Pascoe being trapped LBW by Harry Paseenger for a 2nd ball duck. Further early damage was done by Alex Peggie who travelled down from Surrey to help out in the absence of Kazi “oh my side” Szymanski – Peggie going onto claim 2 for 27. Harry Mount repaired the early damage before becoming a victim of Cramp on 72 although he did return later before being out for 77. That along with the fine catch in the deep by Dan Western off the bowling of Chris Kelmere to remove the dangerous Seb Ansley for 32 were the two real turning points in BT’s innings. However, mention must also be made of the earlier juggling catch to remove Hem Chetri for a duck – there is no truth in the rumour that he will be appearing in Barnum at the Princess Theatre. BT were all out for 180 in 36.3 overs – come the end it was a bit like Emergency Ward 10 with poor Chris Sleep narrowly avoiding have to deal with two runners at the same time which would have been a first for him. BT’s tail was mopped up by Chris Kelmere with 3 for 23 and Ritesh Dabhade, who nearly signed for Exeter CC this season, with 3 for 36. Kudos to Alex Peggie for ensuring the match ball was returned to Evo.
Next up for the 1st XI on Wednesday is to host Paignton CC 1st XI in the 2nd generation South Devon T20 Cup before hosting North Devon CC 1st XI next weekend in the a top of the table clash.
Torquay and Kingskerswell CC 1st XI 257 all out (49.5 overs)
E Smout Cooper 102
H Chatri 4-30
G Williams 3-33
Bovey Tracey CC 1st XI 180 (36.3 overs)
H Mount 77
C Kelmere 3-23
R Dabhade 3-36
Torquay and Kingskerswell CC 1st XI (20 pts) beat Bovey Tracey CC 1st XI (8 pts) by 77 Runs
2ND XI
The 2nd XI played host to the Brockman Cup champions, Barton CC 2nd XI with a point to prove and oh boy did they do it in style.
TKCC won the toss and elected to bat or should that be to put the Barton bowlers to the sword. Poor Tom Lillywhite you have to feel sorry for him out for just 29, Exiting the stage though he left it to Tim Western (128 not out) and Tobias Delahunty (152 not out) – whilst Western was a run a ball, Delahunty’s knock was at a SR of 172.73. The unbeaten 2nd wicket partnership of 257 wasn’t a record for D Division West – ironically Barton CC 2nd XI had been mauled even more by two Hatherleigh CC 2nd XI batters in 2024. TKCC finished on 326 for 1 in their 45 overs.
In reply Barton stumbled to 121 all out in just 23.1 overs with skipper Tom Porter top scoring with just 21. The trio of player’s formerly of this parish scored just a combined total of 33. The best TKCC bowler was Luke Glasson with 3 for 40.
Next up for the 2nd XI next weekend is a trip to take on Plymstock CC 2nd XI. CONGRATULATIONS TO FORMER PLYMSTOCK CC PLAYER, HEATHER KNIGHT, ON HER RETIREMENT FROM INTERNATIONAL CRICKET.
Torquay and Kingskerswell CC 2nd XI 326 for 1 (45 overs)
T Delahunty 152 not out
T Western 128 not out
Barton CC 2nd XI 121 all out (23.1 overs)
T Porter 21
L Glasson 3-40
Torquay and Kingskerswell CC 2nd (20 pts) beat Barton CC 2nd XI (2 pts) by 205 Runs
3RD XI
The 3rd XI headed east to take on Topsham St James CC 2nd XI on a ground graced annually by the MCC and even once by Torquay CC 1st XI as a home fixture. After a hiatus of several years the side included Paul Harding.
TKCC won the toss and despite the heat elected to field. The star with the bat for TSJ was their captain, Matt Reeves, with 84. Reeves was the second of three wickets for Paul Harding, as if he had never been away. Clearly a case of you never lose the ability, Harding going onto claim 3 for 22. Reeves though was supported by Alex Davison with 40 and TSJ finished on 231 for 8.
In reply TKCC got several starts by their batter’s but no one went onto make that big score – the best of the batters being Preshit Pawar with 36. TKCC fell 54 runs short – all out for 177 in 35.4 overs. The best of the TSJ bowlers being Alex Brown with 3 for 24.
Next up for the 3rd XI next weekend is hosting Ottery St Mary CC 2nd XI.
Topsham St James CC 2nd XI 231 for 8 (40 overs)
M Reeves 84
A Davison 40
P Harding 3-22
Torquay and Kingskerswell CC 3rd XI 177 all out (35.4 overs)
P Pawar 36
A Brown 3-24
Topsham St James CC 2nd XI (20 pts) beat Torquay and Kingskerswell CC (8 pts) by 54 Runs
4TH XI
The 4th XI under the leadership of Matt Rossin played host to St Marychurch Old Boys CC 1st XI and lady luck clearly was on their side with last week’s debutant, Ellie Roberts, not available.
SMOB won the toss and asked TKCC to have a bat. Kurt Dettman simply left the innings in tatters taking 5 for 21 and TKCC were all out for just 60 in only 18.5 overs, The only batter to reach double figures was Joe Forst with 15 – thankfully Mr Extras scored 22.
When SMOB replied, Joe Frost gave TKCC a brief glimmer of hope of a miracle removing Gary Ibbotson without scoring but that it was as good as it got with James Lester (33 not out) and Tim Jordan (20 not out) knocking the runs off in just 8.4 overs.
Next up for the 4th XI is a trip next weekend to take on Plymouth CC 4th XI on a ground graced by the MCC (including Evo) every year – no pressure.
Torquay and Kingskerswell CC 4th XI 60 all out (18.5 overs)
Extras 22
J Frost 15
K Dettman 5-21
St Marychurch Old Boys CC 1st XI 61 for 1 (8.4 overs)
J Lester 33 not out
T Jordan 20 not out
St Marychurch Old Boys CC 1st XI (20 pts) beat Torquay and Kingskerswell CC 4th XI (1 pt) by 9 Wickets
Player of the Day
Whilst Ed Smout Cooper might feel slightly aggrieved in light of his fine century. It has to be another joint award this week – Tobias Delahunty and Tim Western (the latter keeping it in the family – no pressure Bobby).
Spectator Watch
Despite being Finals Weekend at Wimbledon there was a sighting of our very own King of the Grass Courts at Avonwick Tennis Club, Malcolm Dare, watching the 1st XI.
THE RETURN OF PAUL HARDING
Over 30 years since first playing for Torquay CC, off spinner, Paul Harding , returns to the club. In the intervening years, Paul played for both Kingskerswell CC and then Chelston and Kingskerswell CC before Paignton CC (their 4th XI was using Kingskerswell at the time). Paul who appeared for the full Devon side on two occasions now plays for the O60s 2nd XI.
Welcome Back Paul
Final update DEVON CRICKET LEAGUE 2026 - ROUND 10
1ST XI
The 1st XI played host to Kilmington CC 1st XI – surely the match couldn’t be as dramatic as last week!
Well, Kilmington won the toss and asked TKCC to have a bat. Well not for the first time this season it was bish bosh out for Joe Thompson and TKCC were soon in trouble at 87 for 6 although an unfortunate injury to Luke Meek did help the cause slightly as Kilmington had to 6.3 overs from somewhere. James Tyler with 36 did repair some of the damage but at 2.42pm with the score on 131 for 9 going out before tea was inevitable. However, those at the Rec over the next 46 minutes witnessed something extraordinary – an undefeated 10th wicket partnership of 105 between Dan Western who came of age scoring an undefeated 67 (sadly mum Vanessa was in the Tea Hatch to witness it) and Ritesh Dabhade who not for the first proved to a very capable no 11 batter with 43 not out. TKCC remarkably finished on 236 for 9 in their 50 overs – the partnership being a new record for the 10th wicket in the DCL A Division. Ironically. Ironically the previous record involved a certain Ed Smout Cooper for Abbotskerswell CC v Torquay CC 1st XI back in 2018! For those interested the strike rates for Western and Dabhade were 113.56 and 104.88. In the end the best bowler for Kilmington was Robert Crabb with 3 for 27.
In reply Kilmington were soon in trouble at 12 for 3 thanks to James Tyler who went on to take 3 for 27 and Harry Passenger, and they never really recovered. That saying Josh Cann who apparently hasn’t been in the best of form scored 42 and captain Oliver Reed with 41 gave them some hope over a recovery. However, Harry Baxendale with 3 for 26 and fresh from his exploits with the bat Ritesh Dabhade took 3 for 24 ended any hopes Kilmington had. Kilmington were all out for 170 in 43.3 overs.
Next up for the 1st XI next weekend is the short trip, well but for the road closure, to the end of Dartmoor to take on Bovey Tracey CC 1st XI.
Three notes from Evo though:
· He is totally off the radar Mon / Tue / Wed of this week
· Who got the fielding discs in? Well let’s just say two players walked straight past and headed for the TICS Bar.
· Pop Latto was looking down in despair today with the lack of Ball Hunting going on from most players & spectators – they are £28 each!
· Although a technicality due to the weather forecast the covers weren’t but on after the Brockman Cup Final. That saying it was a breach of DCL Regs!
Torquay and Kingskerswell CC 1st XI 236 for 9 (50 overs)
D Western 67 not out
R Dabhade 43 not out
R Crabb 3-27
Kilmington CC 1st XI 170 all out (43.3 overs)
J Cann 42
O Reed 41
R Dabhade 3-24
H Baxendale 3-26
J Tyler 3-27
Torquay the Kingskerswell CC 1st XI (19 pts) beat Kilmington CC 1st XI (7 pts) by 66 Runs
2ND XI
The 2nd XI travelled to “Janner Country” to take on Plymouth Civil Service and Roborough CC 1st XI (PCSR). Unfortunately, PCSR haven’t completely uploaded the scoresheet to Play Cricket which makes Evo’s task of reporting rather difficult – a further grip to come later.
However, PCSR won the toss and elected to bat and young Ethan Ebrahim on a rare appear removed two of the three first PCSR batters ending up with figures of 2 for 6 off his permitted 4 overs. Tobias Delahunty and Anthony Nadar both also claimed 2 wickets each with 2 for 27 and 2 for 19 respectively. The best of the PCSR batters was Mailk Wasim with 42. PCSR were all out for 141 with 4 balls remaining.
In reply the TKCC innings was built around opener’s Tom Lillywhite’s 51. Later Lillywhite was supported by the 29ers – Tobias Delahunty was out for 29 and Faiz Ebrahim was not out 29. TKCC won with nearly 9 overs to spare with 5 wickets in hand – the best of the PSCR bowlers being Saqib Hasan with 3 for 27.
Next up for the 2nd XI next weekend is hosting Barton CC 2nd XI – second from top hosting second from bottom.
As for Evo’s grip – it is the responsibility of those involved with the 2nd XI to ensure the accuracy of 2nd XI results on Play Cricket, He doesn’t appreciate being got out of bed on a Sunday morning to sort out issues.
Plymouth Civil Service and Roborough CC 1st XI 141 all out (44.2 overs)
M Wasim 42
E Ebrahim 2-6
A Nadar 2-19
T Delahunty 2-27
Torquay and Kingskerswell CC 2nd XI 142 for 5 (36.2 overs)
T Lillywhite 51
T Delahunty 29
F Ebrahim 29 not out
S Hasan 3-27
Torquay and Kingskerswell CC 2nd XI (20 pts) beat Plymouth Civil Service and Roborough CC 1st XI (5 pts) by 5 Wickets
3RD XI
The 3rd XI played host to Whimple CC 2nd XI.
On his return from holiday Mike Etherington won the toss and elected to bat but after TKCC slumped to 14 for 3. I bet he wished he was still on a sun lounger in the Med. His savour was Ethan Abraham who now free of exam commitments scored a fine 82 before being run out. TKCC were all out for 166 in 37.1 overs with Stephen Hathaway being the best of the Whimple bowlers with 4 for 21.
In reply, Whimple were soon in deep trouble at 22 for 5 – a TKCC win was on the cards. However, Keith Brown a regular for Devon Seniors stood firm before falling for 49 and with help from Mr Extras (35) reached the target with 3 overs left but agonisingly for TKCC they couldn’t take the 10th wicket. The best of the TKCC bowlers were, Hardrik Patel with 3 for 20 and Matt Rossin with 3 for 22.
Despite the result it was good to see Nathan Abraham and George Stephens put in big stints scoring.
Next up for the 3rd XI next weekend is a trip to take on Topsham St James CC 2nd XI at the University of Exeter’s ground where Torquay CC 1st XI once had to play a home DCL match!
Torquay and Kingskerswell CC 3rd XI 166 all out (37.1 overs)
E Abraham 82
S Hathaway 4-21
Whimple CC 2nd XI 170 for 9 (37 overs)
K Brown 49
H Patel 3-20
M Rossin 3-22
Whimpe CC 2nd XI (19 pts) beat Torquay and Kingskerswell CC 3rd XI (8 pts) by 1 Wicket
4TH XI
The 4th XI travelled today to take on Yelverton Bohemians CC 3rd XI under the interim leadership of Stephen Jones, after the recent departure of Ollie Smith, sadly though still with only ten players. The match saw the DCL debut of the club’s new Ladies XI captain, Ellie Rovberts. A big thank you must go to Rob Jack who dashed down from Bath to play.
Yelverton won the toss and elected to bat and despite the handicap of being a fielder short, TKCC restricted them to 214 for 9 in their 40 overs. Mr Extras top scored with 55, as for their actual batters, the best was Alex Gordon with 45. The best of the TKCC bowlers were, Joseph Frost with 3 for 38 and Stephen Jones with 3 for 25.
In reply it was all about birthday boy, Mike Pugh, with 98 not out – let’s hope there is no comeback on “disparity”. However, it wasn’t all a one person shown with young William Frost scoring 53, his highest ever DCL score. TKCC secured the win with 3 balls to spare (although ball by ball suggested it 2 extra balls were balled for some reason) and with 3 wickets remaining. The best of the Yelverton bowlers was Alex Gordon with 2 for 34.
A big shout out must go to Ellie Roberts for keeping club members up to date with the score – maybe the new Social Media Contact for Play Cricket!
Next up next weekend, and back to Saturday, the 4th XI will be hosting St Marychurch Old Boys CC 1st XI.
Yeliverton Bohemians CC 3rd XI 214 for 9 (40 overs)
Extras 55
A Gordon 45
S Jones 3-25
J Frost 3-38
Torquay and Kingskerswell CC 4th XI 216 for 6 (39.3 overs)
M Pugh 98 not out
W Frost 53
A Gordon 2-34
Torquay and Kingskerswell CC 4th XI (19 pts) beat Yelverton Bohemians CC 3rd XI (8 pts) by 3 Wickets
Player of the Day
While Ethan Abraham and Mike Pugh made good cases, there are joint winners this week – Ritesh Dabhade and Dan Western!
Spectator Watch
There were several early arrivals from the Heffle Cuckoos committee as reported by Mr G Avery.
Photograph of the Day
Apart from the youngsters do their scoring apprenticeship. Evo couldn’t help to take the following photo:
It reminds him of 1997 when a culvert just off the square opened up during a Devon match – Dave Lea the umpire was lucky not to disappear down it! Even now no trip to North Devon CC is complete without it coming up in conversation with the umpire.
BROCKMAN CUP FINAL
A minute’s silence for Dave Traylor the former Brockman Cup President who passed away recently - Dave played for both Chelston CC and Torquay CC.
As for the final itself it was between Barton CC 2nd XI and Teignmouth and Shaldon CC 2nd XI. It was a closer affair then many thought it was going to be early in Barton’s reply but Barton won by 7 wickets with 10 balls to spare - the star who made the difference with both bat and ball winning him Player of the Match was Matthew Needham formerly of this parish, A note to the Chair of the Cup Competition, we are now “Torquay and Kingskerswell CC” and NOT “Torquay CC” also it is “Player of the Match” NOT “Man of the Match.”
chance to think outside the box
Whilst it might not be seen as the obvious means to recognise our volunteers and therefore the club. There is scope within the Torbay Community Champion Awards to do it if you don’t take the club in isolation. For more details go to:
https://www.torbaycommunities.com/torbay-community-champion-awards/
So all it is left to say:
“Get Thinking!”
THERE IS LIFE IN THE OLD DOG YET!
Playing for Devon O50s 2nd XI at Ipplepen CC against Cricket Wales O50s 2nd XI, our very own Michael Pugh today has rolled back the years with a fantastic 127 not out in a runs feast which Devon won by 5 wickets, just two days short of his 59th birthday (according to FB). Sales of WD40 will being going up tomorrow from all accounts though!
Congratulations Winnie and Happy Birthday for Friday
NEWS FLASH – NOMINATIONS FOR ECB CRICKET COLLECTIVE AWARDS NOW OPEN
Cricket isn’t all about just having a bat or ball in your hand. That can’t happen with volunteers who give up their time to carry out vital roles often unnoticed / undervalued behind the scenes. However, it is now your chance to get these volunteers the recognition they so richly deserve (and promote this great club at the same time). For more details go to:
https://www.devoncricket.co.uk/page.php?Id=9452
Since the awards started two decades ago, the club pre- and post-merger has had seven wins at county level but nothing at national level yet.
So, could this be the year a fourth member of the club picks up the Life-timer Achiever Award or could a member join a very select band of triple or could it be a year for a newcomer to get recognised. The choice is yours. So all it is left to say is:
“Get Nominating”
updated devon cricket league 2026 - round 9
1ST XI
The 1st XI played host to Thorverton CC 1st XI and shock of all shocks considering the current heat wave, a dash had to be made for the covers, pre-toss.
The lasted just a few minutes and Thorverton won the toss and asked TKCC to have a bat. TKCC didn’t get off to the best of starts, falling to 52 for 3 with Josh Thompson, Ed Smout Cooper and Chris Kelmere all out. However, the damage was repaired by Ben Pomare (50) and captain Harry Passenger (62) in a 4th wicket stand of 71. Later the tail also wagged with Rio Koyikkara (350 and Harry Baxendale (21). However, disaster struck when opening bowler, Kazi Szymanski overstretched, a case of “oh my ***”. TKCC finished on 251 for 9 in their 50 overs. The best of the Thorverton bowlers not for the first time being George Daldroph with 3 for 44 and Ben Slaviero with 2 for 40. Mention must be made though, of spinner, Alex Jopling who only went for 23 in his 10 overs.
In Reply, Thoverton made hay while TKCC were finding a substitute fielder – Charlie Smout-Cooper making a surprise debut after his midweek transfer from Abbotskerswell CC. However, 50 runs had been plundered in just 19 balls. The two Harry’s did put an “emergency stop” to the onslaught but Thorverton were 79 for 2 but it was off just 8.2 overs – opener Dan Robbins falling for 33. However, his opening partner, Croatian international, Luke Vukusic, went onto score 74 before being bowled around his legs by Rio Koyikkara, This, left Thoverton basically needing 100 runs in 25 overs. George Daldorph (54) and skipper Harry Choiules (38) got Thoverton in sight of a much needed, victory.
At 18:55 they thought it is was all over it was then for TKCC. However, what happened over the next 23 minutes was nothing short of incredible – from 230 for 5 to 251 all out in just 3.1 overs – match tied, The, heroes being Ritesh Dabhade with 3 for 32 and the player of the moment James Tyler with 3 for 52. With four overs left, Thorverton needed just 3 to win with 2 wickets left. Tyler’s over went: dot, one run, WICKET, dot, wide ball, dot, WICKET. Who says cricket is boring!
Was the injury to Kazi Szymanski crucial – yes. However, the number of wides given away by TKCC bowlers just as much a major factor in the result – absolutely (21 compared to just 10).
The Miracle of the Rec – what a debut for Livestreaming on YouTube
Next up for the 1st XI next weekend is hosting Kilmington CC 1st XI.
Torquay and Kingskerswell CC 1st XI 251 for 9 (50 overs)
H Passenger 62
B Pomare 50
G Daldroph 3-44
Thorverton CC 1st XI 251 all out (47 overs)
L Vukusic 74
G Daldroph 54
R Dabhade 3-32
J Tyler 3-52
Match Tied – Torquay and Kingskerswell CC 1st XI (16 pts)
Thorverton CC 1st XI (15 pts)
2ND XI
The 2nd XI travelled across Dartmoor to take on Tavistock CC 2nd XI.
Tavistock won the toss and elected to bat and were soon caught in some spinner’s webs! Tobias Delahunty returning the remarkable figures of 5 for 7 in his 9 overs which included 5 maidens. Of his 5 wickets, 3 were caught and bowled, Delahunty was supported by Ethan Kulkarni with 3 for 12 and Bobby Western with 1 for 3. Mr Extras top scored for Tavistock with 19, of their batters, only skipper Ryan Burke (15) and Jon Proctor (13 not out) got into double figures, as they were all out for just 63 but in 39.4 overs.
When TKCC went into bat, Tobias Delahunty decided to put Tavistock out their misery scoring 48 not out in just 26 bowls. Compared to last week’s slaughtering of Abbotskerswell CC it was quicker in just 8.5 overs but 1 wicket was lost this time.
Next up for the 2nd XI next weekend is another trip to West Devon to take on Plymouth Civil Service and Roborough CC 1st XI. I am sorry to have to report though Mr Rice, players are considering asking for a reduction in Match Fees with these very quick wins!
Tavistock CC 2nd XI 63 all out (39.4 overs)
Extras 19
T Delahunty 5-7
E Kulkarni 3-12
Torquay and Kingskerswell CC 2nd XI 64 for 1 (8.5 overs)
T Delahunty 48 not out
Torquay and Kingskerswell CC 2nd XI (20 pts) beat Tavistock CC 2nd (1 pt) by 9 Wickets
3RD XI
After a telephone call from a sun lounger in Turkey finally a complete report from Saturday.
The 3rd XI played host to Stokeinteignhead CC 2nd XI once again under the leadership of Steve Waters with Mike Etherington still topping up his tan in Turkey – not sure if the UK was hotter though.
TKCC won the toss and asked Stokeinteignhead to have a bat but after some early success regretted with Vivek Vithlani coming in at no 5 and scoring 103 off just 67 balls. Vithlani was supported by Syam Kalathil with 35 and helped by Mr Extras with 51 as Stokeinteignhead amassed 279 before being all out with 3 balls remaining of their 40 overs. The best of the TKCC bowlers being Danny Kulkarni with 3 for 42.
In reply the TKCC batting unfortunately did a disappearing with Mr Extras top scoring with 25 although both the Patel’s scored 14 each. TKCC collapsed to 75 all out in just 20 overs The star with the ball for Stokeinteignhead, no pun intended, was Shawna Ball with 5 for 18 in her 6 overs.
Whilst there was apparently IT issues it isn’t the responsibility of Evo to try and construct a scorecard on Play Cricket having not been at the match. A club of this size should have both a scorer and an umpire for the 3rd XI – Evo did offer to train anyone interested in the winter but sadly there was no takers.
Next up for the 3rd XI next weekend is hosting Whimple CC 2nd XI.
Stokeinteignhead CC 2nd XI 279 all out (39.3 overs)
V Vithlani 103
Extras 51
D Kulkarni 3-42
Torquay and Kingskerswell CC 3rd XI 75 all out (20 overs)
Extras 25
S Ball 5-18
Stokeinteignhead CC 2nd XI (20 pts) beat Torquay and Kingskerswell CC 3rd XI (6 pts) by 204 Runs
4TH XI
One would have thought after their blank weekend and the chance to play on Roger Tolchard’s favourite ground, the 4th XI would have loved to make the short trip to take on Babbacombe CC 3rd XI. Sadly, though despite so many registered players, a second match conceded this season, which leaves the team at the half way stage of the season, half way to expulsion from the DCL. The immediate consequence being unless there was an early call a possible fine of £55 to cover teas. However, the more serious longer-term consequence is continuing to have the use of the ground at Kingskerswell if the club only needs it every other week. On the embarrassment front though have sailed very close to the wind last season, TKCC are the only club with an XI half way to expulsion this season. In the words of a quizmaster from a local pub ironically frequented by several Babbacombe CC players though,” “God willing” “we shall see the 4th XI next weekend travel on Sunday to take on Yelverton Bohemians CC 3rd XI”
Player of the Day
Finally, it can be confirmed it will be Tobias Delahunty although James Tyler had a strong case.
Spectator Watch
After a dash back across Dartmoor it was good to see so many of the 2nd XI back to witness today’s “Miracle at the Rec” although one committee member fell asleep at home and so didn’t make it down in time – Mr Rider!
SUMMER HOLIDAY COURSES 2026
Once again the Devon Cricket Foundation are running courses for years 3 to 9 at the Devon Cricket Centre (University of Exeter) during the Summer Holidays. For more details follow the link below:
tickets selling fast !
Michael Hunt a member of the fabled Wednesday Afternoon Work Party and President of his beloved Brockman Cup invites you to the Final of this year’s competition on Friday 3rd July at the spiritual home of the competition – The Rec. The match is between Barton CC 2nd XI and Teignmouth and Shaldon CC 2nd XI. With regards to the Spirit of Cricket it has to be noted members of Barton CC forewent the usual “hostilities” with TKCC to ensure “play” was called on time in the first semi-final. So all it is left to say, in the words of the late great Leslie Crowther who loved his cricket (he actually watched Devon’s first final at Lords):
“Come On Down”
big brother at the rec
No ITV2 aren’t filming at the Rec! However, the club are pleased to announce the mid-season signing of Charlie Smout Cooper a right-handed batter who bowls off spin from Abbotskerswell CC, Charlie who has taken a little time away from the game this season until now will be joining up with younger brother Ed who has made such an impression this season om and off the field since making the same move.
Welcome Charlie
DEVON CRICKET LEAGUE 2026 - ROUND 8
1ST XI
The 1st XI travelled up the M5 to take on Cullompton CC 1st XI on what was likely to be a historic day for them – there last scheduled DCL 1st XI fixture at their old ground before it comes part of the Cullompton Relief Road.
Cullompton won the toss and asked TKCC to have a bat. Despite some advice from TKCCs very own Jack Leach AKA Mike Hunt, Josh Thompson was out for a Royal Duck. (A Royal Duck is when a batter is out off the first ball of the innings.) Ben Pomare was also soon out – a case of the wrong diesel in the legs – run out by Harry Everett. (Everett is a lead light in the awarding winning Media Team at Somerset CCC.) A reminder to another batter to fall early, please mind your P&Q when walking off. TKCC were in trouble at 54 for 4. However, skipper Harry Passenger (52) and Chris Kelmere (44) repaired some of the damage putting on 90 for the 5th wicket. However once Passenger was out with the score on 152, the lower order did a Harry Houdini and TKCC were all out for just 177, using only 38.5 of their overs. That saying most of Cullompton’s “legal” spare balls had been lost – take note bowlers who believe is their given right to keep the match ball if they take five or more wickets. The best of the Cullompton bowlers was Paul Rendall with 3 for 40.
When the Cullompton innings it was in the words of Del Boy, “would you Adam and Eve it,” Tinashe Kamunhukamwe was out for a Royal Duck and amazingly was caught near as dam it in the same position as Josh Thompson had been. The Cullompton reply crumbed to 17 for 4. When dangerman, Brendan Parr was out for 6 the score was 32 for 5. The only batter to show any resistance was Daniel King with 29 – Cullompton’s next highest scorer was Mr Extras with 22 and they were all out for just 91 in only 24.4 overs, so a decent spare for Evo’s collection. The seamers, Kazi Szymanski (2 for 18) and Ritesh Dabhade (2 for 13) did the early damage before it became The Two Harry’s Show – Harry Baxendale 3 for 19 and Harry Passenger 3 for 31. The latter thanks to a second brilliant catch by Beau Rider, claimed the wicket of Daniel King, probably the last ever DCL wicket on the ground.
Next up for the 1st XI next weekend is hosting second from bottom, Thorverton CC 1st XI.
Torquay and Kingskerswell CC 1st XI 177 all out (38.5 overs)
H Passenger 52
C Kelmere 44
P Rendall 3-40
Cullompton CC 1st XI 91 all out (24.4 overs)
D King 29
H Baxendale 3-19
H Passenger 3-31
Torquay and Kingskerswell CC 1st XI (18 pts) beat Cullmpton CC 1st XI (6 pts) by 86 Runs
2ND XI
The 2nd XI played host to Abbotskerswell CC 2nd XI.
Abbotskerswell won the toss and elected to bat but soon regretted it with only their skipper Erik Gregersen formerly of this parish putting up any resistance with 36 as they were all out for only 89 in just 36.4 overs. The spin twins of Tobias Delahunty (4 for 3) and Bobby Western (3 for 18) doing the main damage.
In reply it was the Western Show with dad Tim playing the anchor role with 20 not out whilst eldest son Daniel blasted 69 not out in just 31 balls. TKCC reached the target in just 9.2 overs.
Next up for the 2nd XI next weekend is a trip away to take on Tavistock CC 2nd XI.
Abbotskerswell CC 2nd XI 89 all out (38.4 overs)
E Gregersen 36
T Delahunty 4-3
B Western 3-18
Torquay and Kingskerswell CC 2nd XI 91 for 0 (9.2 overs)
D Western 69 not out
Torquay and Kingskerswell CC 2nd XI (20 pts) beat Abbotskerswell CC 2nd XI (1 pt) by 10 Wickets
3RD XI
The 3rd XI under the leadership of Steve Waters in the absence of Mike Etherington (not even half way through the season and now only Harry Passenger of the skippers has a 100% record of being available for all matches) travelled to take on Upottery CC 3rd XI.
Upottery won the toss and elected to bat. Their innings was built around the 1st wicket partnership of 96 between Johnathan Rich (60) and Archie Long (55). Later , Warren Forbes scored 36 as Upottery finished on 211 for 9 in their 40 overs. The best of the TKCC bowlers was Leigh Scarff with 2 for 14, although Messrs McCann, Pinder and Rossin also all took 2 wickets each.
TKCCs reply was initially built around Mayank Koyani (51) and Hardik Patel (54) begore it was left to Steve Waters to score 30 not out. Waters having demonstrated perfect captaincy / club person skills by dropping himself down the order to give others an opportunity. Lewis Rich and Warren Forbes both claimed two wickets each for Upottery but TKCC won with 13 balls to spare with 3 wickets remaining.
Next up for the 3rd XI next weekend is playing host to Stokeinteignhead CC 2nd XI.
Upottery CC 3rd XI 211 for 9 (40 overs)
J Rich 60
A Long 55
L Scarff 2-14
Torquay and Kingskerswell CC 3rd XI 213 for 7 (37.5 overs)
H Patel 54
M Koyani 51
S Waters 30 not out
L Rich 2-32
W Forbes 2-37
Torquay and Kingskerswell CC 3rd XI (19 pts) beat Upottery CC 3rd XI (8 pts) by 3 Wickets
4TH XI
A chance to put their feet up this weekend before returning to action next weekend away to Babbacombe CC 3rd XI at the former home ground of Torquay CC 3rd XI – Cockington Court. The Babbacombe side is likely to include two Backholer’s who have been loaned out to TKCC this season.
Player of the Day
A really difficult one but it has to go to Daniel Western for his destruction of Abbotskerswell CC 2nd XI bowling attack.
Spectator Watch
Well Jimmy Clifford snr was again down from the West Midlands to watch his son, However, special mention must be made of Mike Hunt and Lady Ann for watching an entire !st XI league match – that saying they were going to leave before the end but the quick finish changed their plans. It is highly likely they got back to see the end of 2nd XI match involving one of Mike’s other clubs.
DON’T TRAVEL TO SIDMOUTH FOR THE CORINTHIAN CUP
Regrettably the club has had to concede their 2nd Round tie away to Sidmouth CC 2nd XI due to lack of eligible players being available.
The decision was not made lightly as there is likely to be a £150 fine if conceding is deemed the same as withdrawing. If it is the case to put it into context it will be equivalent to three players securing sponsorship.
NATIONAL LEARNING DISABILITY WEEK
It might appear to have been quiet on the Hollacombe CRC front recently but Evo has still been doing his monthly session as “The Cricket Man” (the clients don’t do PC). Recently he did an extra session to help them out when they were short staffed due to Annual Leave - totally his decision to say “Yes” to their request - well his primary contact at the centre had put a “like” to his post on FB about his match 700. Today he was back over doing an extra session as part of National Learning Disability Week. One unexpected bonus, one of the staff has as daughter who wants to try cricket and the mum reckons some of the daughters friends would be interested as well.