Downpatrick remain on top

Downpatrick remain on top

17 July 2024

DOWNPATRICK seconds stayed top of Section 7 with a comprehensive 51 run win over Muckamore fifths. 

Despite the result, Downpatrick captain Lijo Matthews was far from happy with his side’s batting as after seven overs they had raced to 70 for two before five LBWs meant they lost eight wickets for a further 60 runs. 

Downpatrick sadly only had two players reach double figures, who were Akshay Mehra (45 

with three fours and two sixes) and Manish Kumar (18). 

The pick of the home team’s bowling was Karl Gribben, four for 38, and Shakeel Shaikh, four for 15.

Downpatrick had no trouble defending 130 with Usman Habeebulla five for 13 in six overs.

He bowled superb as Muckamore crashed to 31 for seven. The tail did wag but wickets for Jijo Matthew (two) and a wicket each for Samuel Irwin, Sager Basheer and player of the match Akshay Mehra kept Downpatrick in prime position for successive promotions bowling Muckamore out for 79.

Downpatrick seconds have a crunch match at home next Sunday against Dunmurry seconds and captain Lijo Matthews will no doubt have his squad well prepared.