Hindle steers Optis home

ADAM HINDLE showed much confidence and no little nerve in guiding Optimists to a vital win last night. It is almost incredible to think that one of the traditionally strong clubs in local cricket were in danger of relegation before beating Rovers at the KGV, but this was only the third time that they have taken two points this season.

And it was teenager Hindle who was receiving the pats on the back at the end with a mature, run-a-ball 32 not out that eased Optimists to their modest 20-over target of 92.

Amazingly, not a single boundary was scored in Rovers' innings, which started dreadfully as they lost best batsmen Tim Duke and Ryan Bishop in the first two overs.

It was their promising teenager, Robbie Le Corre, who eventually led the way with a top score of 20.

But their total never looked defendable, especially with the ever-reliable Mark Clapham opening for their opponents.

He and Hindle put on 53 for the third wicket as Optimists cruised home with two overs to spare.

At Port Soif, Corinthians easily defended 143 against St Saviour's.