Robson leads by example as CI open with a victory

OPENER Paul Robson marked his first 50+ County Championship game as captain with a match-winning century at Grainville. His three-figure score helped lay the foundations for victory before Guernsey's Mike Kinder claimed three wickets as the Credit Suisse Channel Islands over-50s won their opening group three game against Cornwall by 168 runs.

Robson hit 103 as the CI notched up one of their best victories in the championship in recent years.

'It was a great way to start my captaincy. I was happy with my batting as I offered no chances,' Robson said.

'I had a horrible feeling Cornwall were going to bat first when they won the toss but when they asked us to bat, I was delighted.'

Robson hit a dozen boundaries, with his ton coming up off 100 balls. He was at the crease for two hours and 22 minutes.

Andy Gibbs hit five fours while Dave Gorman struck six boundaries before retiring after facing 39 deliveries. John Taylor's undefeated 44 came off 24 balls. He clouted three sixs and three fours.

'It was a fine team effort. Everyone batted well, while Keith Dennis was unlucky to get out to a ball that stayed low,' said Robson.

'Andy Gibbs and John Taylor were both just short of half-centuries while Dave Gorman reached his and then unfortunately had to retire with a hamstring injury.

'That was a great shame because he was making his debut - he's the youngest player in the team and he pulls up lame.'

Miserly bowling from a CI attack made up mainly of Guernseymen restricted the visitors to just 110 for seven from their 45 overs.

Kinder removed the top three in the order while Steve Birkett claimed two wickets later on with his left-arm spin. There was a wicket each for Greg Sykes and Dennis.

'The bowlers also impressed, particularly Mike Kinder. He swung the ball both ways, therefore proving very difficult to score off,' Robson said.

'It's a good start to our campaign and hopefully we can continue it in five weeks' time when we play away to Hampshire.'

Guernsey's Miles Dobson qualifies for the age group for their next match and it is hoped Jersey's Barry Middleton will return from his current shoulder injury.