1st XI finish on a high
Broadstairs 1st XI consolidated their position at the top end of Division 2 with a win over promoted Folkestone in an absorbing encounter at Park Avenue. On a pitch that had plenty of end-of-season surprises for batters, Broadstairs won the toss and elected to bowl first.
This proved to be a wise choice as they were able to restrict the visitors to 156, James Tredwell top-scoring with 36. The innings was characterised by some excellent bowling and wicket-taking from Chris Kidd (4-17), Matthew Frewin (2-35), Chris Flint (2-30) and Isaac Dilkes (1-30) along with a disciplined spell from Jamie Dewell, leaking just 14 runs off his 8 overs.
Were it not for a number of fielding blunders, the total could have been substantially lower and on an unpredictable pitch, the hosts knew they would need to display more resilience than they have managed in recent weeks.
The innings got off to an inauspicious start with Flint adjudged LBW in the second over. This brought Tom Renouf to the crease and he and Elliot Fox were able to build a good platform, maintaining the required rate of 3 per over for the next 16 overs. Fox was eventually dismissed for 14 and when Renouf (30) was caught shortly after and the score at 53-3, it was up to the middle order to maintain the momentum that had been established.
Isaac Dilkes stepped up to the plate and established a series of partnerships with Jack Wheeler (3), Scott Narraway (5) and Matthew Frewin (22) and Alfie Huntley (5*) to see the Seasiders over the line. Dilkes finished-up with an unbeaten 59 in what was an excellent all-round performance by the 16-year old Academy scholar.
The victory denied Folkestone the honour of Division 2 Champions and proved that Broadstairs were a match for other side in the division. Captain Chris Kidd and his team can be proud of their achievements this season and will reflect on a few missed chances and some misfortune in recent matches that stymied their promotion hopes at the last hurdle. This young and developing side will return next season with promotion to Division 1 firmly in their sights.
Report David Fox