South Wilts collect unexpected SEC Cup success

South Wilts lifted the Premier League's Southern Electric Contracting Cup with an unexpected 35-run victory over Bashley (Rydal) in the final at the Rose Bowl.

They went into the Nursery ground final minus key all-rounder Paul Draper and left-arm strike bowler Jimmy Tomlinson, but rose to the occasion to pull off a thoroughly deserved victory.

Led by man-of-the-match Jon Nash, who hit a crucial half-century, they posted a challenging 140-5 off 21.5 overs - a target Bashley were never capable of threatening.

Nash, who made 53, shared two key stands, initially with Jamie Glasson but, more importantly, with third-wicket partner Rob Wade (34).

South Wilts' success was effectively sealed when Bashley's reply reached 27-1 - when star Australian Luke Ronchi dragged a delivery from Shaun Adam on to his stumps.

Andy Sexton (43), the former Hampshire left-hander, fought back, but his dismissal - one of four victims claimed by spinner Tom Caines (4-23) - signalled the end of Bashley's resistance.

Bashley's middle-order fell away against Caines and Wade (2-17) and they closed, well behind, at 105-9.