Azmat and Walton shine in Earby win (From Craven Herald)

Azmat and Walton shine in Earby win

9:05am Thursday 28th June 2012 in Sport

Overseas star Ali Azmat hit an unbeaten century as lowly Earby secured a much-needed win over Ribblesdale Wanderers.

Azmat struck six sixes and 11 fours as he made 118 not out after his side were asked to bat first.

Chris Walton was the other key figure in Earby’s success.

He made 33 in a crucial fourth-wicket stand of 86 with Azmat after his side had slumped to 17-3.

Walton then followed up by taking 5-37 as Ribblesdale were dismissed for 176 in reply to Earby’s score of 202-8.

The 26-run victory earned Earby a valuable 12 points.

Barnoldswick extended their lead at the top after defeating Edenfield by six wickets to secure their tenth league win.

Barnoldswick, the only unbeaten team in the division hold a 22-point lead over Read who defeated Baxenden by 88 runs to climb above them in the table.

Struggling Edenfield were bowled out for just 80 as paceman Faisal Hussain took 5-22. Barnoldswick lost four wickets before reaching their victory target.

Despite the storms of 24 hours earlier, Settle’s home clash with Great Harwood was the only Senior League game that had to be abandoned.

Settle will be hoping for better luck with the weather this weekend. They visit Cherry Tree on Saturday before taking on champions Baxenden at Marshfield on Sunday in the semi-finals of the Ramsbottom Cup.