Patel back to winning ways

Min Patel fine all round performance © Getty Images

Hartley continued their early season form with a comprehensive win over Beckenham in the Shepherd Neame Kent Premier League.

Min Patel once again was among the action as Beckenham began well to reach 87-1 before the unfortunate run out of Jason Bilimoria for 40 sparked a lower order collapse against the guile of Patel whose 5-26 proved decisive, being well supported by frugal Andy Tutt.

A rapid unbeaten 83 from rested Kent man James Hockley and 44 from Patel saw the home side stroll to victory from just 15.3 overs.

Tunbridge Wells found batting conditions to their liking at Gore Court.

Geoffrey Paulsen raced to a fine 124 and was well supported by a useful contribution of 58 from Oliver Priestman as Tunbridge Wells closed on 265 for seven from their 55 overs.

Gore Court began well, reaching 50 without loss but the introduction of Mark Smith (5-27) and Oliver Priestman (5-35) changed the game and Gore Court were bowled out for just 163 in the 46th over.

After a winning start, Bickley Park met tough opponents in Blackheath this week. Having kept Messrs Ruel Brathwaite and Warren Lee at bay, Bickley found themselves all at sea against a fine spell of 5-15 from Richard Woods and were bowled out for just 135.

Blackheath build their reply around Peter Dean, who remained 66 not out as Blackheath cruised to victory by six wickets.

Bromley looked in trouble against St Lawrence at 150 for seven but opener Paul Harrison anchored the innings well and with a well constructed 84 helped
Bromley to recover to a useful 252 for nine after their 55 overs.

St Lawrence came slowly out of the blocks against an accurate attack and never threatened to challenge the Bromley target, settling for a losing draw, reaching 177-6 at the close.

Sevenoaks Vine were comprehensively beaten by newly promoted Bexley. Their total of 130 all out was never going to be enough as Bexley showed by romping home to win by nine wickets.

Blackheath, Hartley and Bromley now share honours at the top of the table all with 32 points.