THE sunshine brought out the best in the Northwich batsmen as they reached the 200 mark for the first time this season.

All of the club's top order passed 20 in their 'home' game at Mossley.

Northwich had conceded home advantage due to the women's football tournament at Moss Farm and the switch paid off.

Batting first, Northwich got off to a flying start with excellent displays from captain Nick Shaw (43) and Ant Shaw (53).

A quickfire 37 not out in the final four overs from Simon James led the visitors to declare on 211-5.

Mossley attempts to get back into the match were kept in check by a spell of 3-43 from James and 3-23 from skipper Shaw.

Mossley couldn't hang on for the draw and were dismissed for 156 with six overs remaining.

Hartford's title challenge gained further momentum with a six-wicket win over last week's leaders Maer and Westlands.

Matt Shinkfield grabbed 4-33 and Dave Elliot 4-39 as Maer's batsmen were demolished for 103 all out.

The total was always in sight for Hartford. Rob Whittle (24) and Rick Buckley (21) top scored to help them to a comfortable 104-4 and the win.

Kingsley's match against Kerridge turned into a run feast with 439 runs scored for the loss of six wickets.

Kerridge opened the batting and made a reachable total of 219-3.

Kingsley didn't hang around and impressive knocks from David Whyke (57), J Elliot (63) and D Ellens (55 not out) took them to 220-3 and a seven wicket win.

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