Shemeld stars in Green Cap victory

A disciplined bowling effort spearheaded by James Letchford and Kris Cumming ensured Leschenault claimed a two-bonus point victory against Eaton on Saturday.

After restricting Hay Park to 135 last weekend, the Green Caps’ attack continued its dominant run of form to skittle the Beavers for just 78 at the Leschenault Turf.

Letchford and Cumming both went for less than two runs an over in an economical display, claiming 2-8 and 2-7 respectively.

The left-arm duo’s efforts were heavily complemented by Leschenault’s bowling stocks, with off-spinner Matt Dodds snaring an emphatic 3-18.

Rodney Shemeld took 1-13, Jarrad Quinn removed captain Clint Hewson and Michael Newman ended with a tidy 1-3 from four overs. Opening bowler Brody D’Agostino was the only Leschenault bowler not to claim a wicket, but restricted Eaton's run-flow – going for only 10 runs from six overs.

The Green Caps bogged down the usually free-flowing the Beavers’ batsmen, with only James Hillery (11) and Clayton Caltsounis (17) passing double figures.

Letchford knocked over Eaton’s Shannon Prentice in the 41st over to bring Eaton’s innings to a premature close with just 78 runs on the board.

With an opportunity to secure back-to-back two-bonus point wins, Leschenault coach Peter Slater again reshuffled the batting order in a bid for quick runs.

Slater sent Shemeld to open the innings for the first time in the 2016/17 Bunbury and Districts Cricket Association campaign.

Shemeld failed to disappoint and belted 50 from 54 deliveries in a quick-fire knock which ensured victory in the 18th over for the loss of only one wicket.

Leschenault will look to secure a finals berth when they take on Colts in the last home-and-away game this weekend.