SETTLE’S juggernaut rolled over its ninth straight victim at Whalley, although the home side posted a respectable 153-9. John Tarbox (3-22) removed both openers in short order, supported by the costlier sub pro Hammad ul Hassan (3-45). Benjamin Hulse bowled with great control, taking a wicket and conceding only 11 runs from his seven overs.

Then, once again, Settle’s batsmen swept all before them. Will Davidson (41), Robbie Davidson (40) and Tom Strickland (21no) all celebrated their recent selection for the Ribblesdale League representative side, scoring at a run a ball or better. When batting second, Settle have knocked off the runs inside 30 overs all season, on this occasion reaching 157-4 after 26.1 overs. Now topping 100 points, Settle will still expect a competitive match at Marshfield this Saturday when they entertain fourth-placed Read.

Settle second team were surprised to find they had moved up to fifth place in Division One after losing at home to Read in a game they had for the taking. They picked up three bonus points despite a difficult time at the crease, though 115 all out was an improvement on last week. Rob Johnson (15) and Adam Strickland (17) started well, backed up by a dogged 34 from Daniel Strickland, finding form again after injury.

The reply saw opening bowler Simon Tarbox strike what seemed to be decisive blows, his final figures of 4-14 from seven overs leaving Read on the ropes with five wickets down and only 12 on the board. But missed chances and an unbeaten knock of 69 by Conor Lowes gave Read the match with three wickets in hand.