Another outstanding all-round display from Jaden Hatwell helped Swardeston’s 1st XI maintain their strong start to the season as they thrashed last year’s runners-up Saffron Walden by 196 runs.
Hatwell scored a century and then claimed four wickets as Swardeston kept pace at the top with Vauxhall Mallards, who also won on Saturday.
Swardeston opted to bat first and their big total centred around a third wicket stand of 221 between Hatwell and Peter Lambert. Having missed his maiden EAPL century by five runs two weeks ago, Lambert got even closer this time, hitting 99 from 126 balls before he was dismissed just shy of the milestone. Hatwell followed almost immediately, for 118 from 129 balls, including nine fours and three sixes, but the duo’s efforts allowed the hosts to declare on 311 for seven after 58 overs.
Saffron Walden reached 87 for one in reply, before Swardeston’s spin attack took control. Hatwell made the breakthrough and two more wickets fell without further addition, with George Walker claiming the key scalp of Giles Ecclestone (45).
From there it was a procession as Walker and Hatwell claimed four wickets each to bowl the visitors out for 115 in the 41st over.
The 2nd XI could only manage a losing draw against Saxlingham. Set 246 to win, they finished 201 for 8 with Jordy Taylor’s 46 the only real highlight.
The 3rd XI’s winning draw at home to North Runcton A came after Matt Hogg (53no) and Ben Hogg (43) combined to help post a competitive 201-6 off the allocated overs. Will Kennard (four for 55) and David Horrex (three for 19) then excelled with the ball to ensure Runton finished well short, ending on 125 for 7.
The 4th XI game away at Winterton was cut short due to a heavy thunderstorm with the game very much in the balance – Swardeston 52 for 3 in reply to Winterton’s 269-3 declared.
