WITH the Swanage 1st XI having a bye, attention turned to the 2nd XI’s promotion push against Abbotsbury at Days Park.
After choosing to bat on an excellent wicket, the hosts slipped to 33–3 thanks to sharp early bowling from the visitors.
The innings shifted dramatically through a composed 91‑run partnership between all‑rounder Sid Nash and the in-form Chris Backhouse, who struck a fluent 48 before falling with the score on 123.
Momentum continued as Sid Nash was joined by Mike Nash, and together they produced a match-winning stand of 152 at close to ten an over.
Mixing solid defence with powerful stroke-play, Sid accelerated superbly, reaching his second century of the summer with a towering six out of the ground.
He eventually fell for a sensational 136, featuring 23 boundaries.
Mike Nash remained unbeaten on 46, guiding the 2nd XI to an imposing 283–6 from their 40 overs.
Abbotsbury’s reply faltered immediately under scoreboard pressure and a superb spell from Harry Long, whose four quick wickets reduced them to 44–4.
Supported by Bradley (B), Andrew Hancock and Max Nicholson, the bowlers maintained control throughout, dismissing the visitors for 123.
The victory keeps Swanage’s faint promotion hopes alive heading into the final weekend.
Elsewhere, the 3rd XI hosted Wareham in Division 5.
Despite the best efforts of a young Swanage attack, Wareham amassed a remarkable 391–1.
The hosts responded positively, led by a majestic 96 from Paul Norman.
Don Van‑Staden added 48, while Gary Marsh (29) and Alan Marks (26) contributed valuable runs as Swanage closed on a respectable 255–9.
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