Hambledon have progressed to the semi-final of the 2025 Village Cup — just one win away from the Lord’s final — thanks to a decisive victory over Wiltshire side Goatacre (who knocked the Dons out of the competition last year).
On a day where the weather looked like it might play a significant part, Hambledon were put in to bat by the home team, but the Dons were able to build a strong base to their innings. George Marshall and Chris Pratt opened, and were both still there at drinks with the score on 135 without loss, despite a short rain break. George Marshall was first to depart for 82, and wickets then started to fall, with Chris Pratt falling 8 runs short of another century. But some lusty blows from Toby Restell (29 from 17) and other useful contributions had Hambledon finishing on 265-6 – a handy total even on a smaller ground.
In reply, Goatacre were shaken when James Restell struck with the first ball of the innings, which he followed soon after with another; and by the time Goatacre were 56-6 it looked a huge mountain to climb. However, lower order resistance was provided, especially from Jif Wilkins who was last man out for 60 from only 28 balls; but in the end Goatacre were dismissed for 190, falling short of their target by 75 runs.
A very good all-round bowling performance saw Ben Harding take 3 for 23; two wickets each for James Restell, Chris Pratt and Ian Turner; and one for Harry Graham. Excellent commitment in the field saw Mark Butcher take 4 catches and a stumping, and Chris Pratt (of course!) took 3 catches.
Thanks also to the Hambledon travelling supporters who made the trip to Wiltshire on the coach, and provided constant and vocal backing for the team! The full scorecard and video stream are available now; a highlights reel should follow in the next few days.
Hambledon will travel to Foxton Granta CC (near Cambridge) for the semi-final, to be played in two weeks on Sunday 3 August. Foxton Granta – who won the competition in 2024 – came back from behind to beat Leeds & Broomfield in a tense finish that went right to the last ball: with scores tied, they won by having lost fewer wickets!
Full details of arrangements for the semi-final to follow...