Barnt Green 250 all out, Old Hill 248 all out

Barnt Green win by two runs

CAPTAIN Richard Illingworth put Barnt Green firmly back in contention for championship, as they narrowly edged past Old Hill in the Birmingham and District League Premier on Saturday.

Illingworth dismissed Riaz Shiekh with the penultimate ball to hand his side a crucial victory.

The win, and leaders West Bromwich's defeat to Halesowen, means that second placed Green are only six points off the top of the table.

Illingworth, who took 6-18, feels his side can build on this result.

He said: "Every game is tough in the Birmingham League and we can't afford to let our standards drop.

"But we are in a strong position and hopefully we can push off from here."

Batsman Richard Hall made a fine return to form by hitting 49, but 16-year-old Nathan Newton was bowled out by Khan.

Steve Williams (23) and Paul Bedford were also removed, but Roger Sillence (95) stiffened the order, before Khan had him removed lbw.

Illingworth (17) and Kieran Reese (10) also got into double figures before Barnt Green were bowled out in the 55th over for 250.

Gareth Williams made the early breakthrough for Green, dismissing Davies for 16.

However, Reham (45) and R Khan (50) forged a stubborn second wicket partnership.

Illingworth made the difference, bowling and catching Rehman, while Kris Howes removed Khan.

However, Old Hill were making good use of their small pitch to make runs, with Z Khan (30) and Sheikh (73) keeping the run rate up.

Illingworth though removed both to put his side in charge.

Williams removed Jones and the captain had Brooker caught by Sillence on the penultimate ball to secure victory.

l Illingworth believes that he has a strong enough squad for his side to continue on the glory trail on three fronts.

Barnt Green are chasing silverware in the league, GW Trophy and the Cockspur National Knockout Cup.

The return of Paul Bedworth, who missed all of June's matches because of work commitments and the availability of Richard Wilkinson means Barnt Green's squad has some much needed depth.

Illingworth said: "I have everyone available and that means some players are going to be disappointed.

"But I'd rather have too many players to choose from than too little."

Green take on Kenilworth Wardens at home on Saturday (1pm start) as they aim to keep their title chase going.

On Sunday Barnt Green entertain Cheshire side Widnes in the quarterfinals of the Knockout Cup (1pm start).

County players David Wigley (Worcestershire) and Sillence (Gloucestershire) miss the match because they are not eligible to play.

Illingworth said: "When you are in the quarterfinals of a national cup you don't take anything for granted.

"Widnes are obviously a good side but we are hoping to go one stage further."