ST IVES struck an important blow in the race for the Tucker 2 title when their batsmen destroyed lacklustre Waresley’s bowling attack in double-quick time.

ST IVES struck an important blow in the race for the Tucker 2 title when their batsmen destroyed lacklustre Waresley’s bowling attack in double-quick time.

The nine-wicket win put Ives seven points clear of Ickwell at the head of the table, and 11 in front of their opponents on Saturday, who sit third.

Invited to bat, visitors Waresley were made to work hard as the Ives bowlers took full advantage of the lively conditions.

Simon Donald (63) grafted willingly but lost partners at regular intervals and at 96-5 a competitive score looked unlikely. A good knock by Steve Lewis (50*) got the score to 175-6 to give the Waresley bowlers a target to defend.

The Ives chase for the win was brutal with Reuan Williams (84*) hitting two sixes and 12 fours, and Tom Beale (36) smashing 77 inside 13 overs in their partnership. Williams and Stephen Smith (37*) continued the rampage, belting 101 in 15 overs as they reached 178-1 for an early finish.

Waresley captain Steve Warman said: “I felt we got out of a hole thanks to Simon Donald and Steve Lewis, who was playing his first game for the first team this season.

“But we were a bit light on the batting side and were definitely second best by the end of play.”

Ives captain Ricky Greiller said: “I knew this was a big game – the whole team were up for it and we grabbed a big win.

“There’s still plenty to do if we are going to lift the title but the side are ready for the challenge of Tucker 1.”