Guernsey begin with emphatic win

Hosts Guernsey produced a comprehensive 141-run victory over Gibraltar to seize the initiative in the European Division Two championships. Lee Savident’s 91 was the centerpiece of his side’s surge to a strong score of 264 for 4 from their 50 overs.

In reply Gibraltar floundered early, at one stage being 9 for 3. They were dismissed for 123 in the 44th over. The wickets were shared between Andrew Hutchinson, Jonny Warr, Jamie Nussbaumer, Jeremy Frith, Gary Rich and Tim Ravenscroft.

Germany had to earn a hard fought win against France after scoring 172 for 9. Farooq Ahmed led the charge with 40. France just fell short in their bid for victory, though while Arun Ayyavooraju (63) was at the crease. Time was on the French’s side, but the last pair were left needing to score 30. They were bowled out for 167 in the 49th over.

The third game of the day was another close contest between Norway and Israel. Norway were bowled out in the final over for 204. Damien Shortis top scored with 66. At 191 for 4 with nearly 4 overs remaining Israel looked in control, but contrived to lose their cool in a spate of wickets. As it transpired, no. 11 Eliezer Sampson was run out off the penultimate ball of the match, with the Israelis still 4 short of the target, giving Norway a thrilling win.