In the days most important sporting fixture, Canterbury overcame Blackheath in an enthralling game at Polo Farm. The heavy rain in the days prior to the match ensured that this was going to be an important toss to win. With a strong seam bowling attack Blackheath had no hesitation in asking Canterbury to bat, hoping that the sun would dry the wicket enough for batting to become easier throughout the day. Indeed the home side were soon in trouble losing Drakeley and Steer to the impressive Braithwaite. The inclusion of the left arm spin of Hands proved no easier to score off with the ball spinning sharpley and the occasional one rearing dramatically. Unfortunately the supporting bowlers were not of the same calibre and some useful contributions from the middle order, particularly Samarasinghe, who played a very mature and patient innings and a late blast from the final overs saw Canterbury post a challenging 151 for 8.

Blackheath came out with very positive intent and despite the wicket still offering assistance to the bowlers, imposed themselves on the Canterbury bowling and made light work of the conditions posting a rapid opening partnership of 70 in 14 overs. The introduction of off spinners Drakeley and Cooper turned the game on its head. Having gone from free scoring, the batsmen became becalmed and the pressure of not being able to score broke the partnership. Having made a start, Canterbury never looked back and with the batsmen unable to get the bowling away, wickets fell at regular intervals with few runs being added. Having looked down and out at the start, Canterbury ran out comfortable winners by 41 runs and look forward doing the double over the London sides as they entertain Beckenham at Polo Farm next week.

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