Nelson cruise to victory at Middleton to register their 10th league win of the season
Nelson continued their excellent form with a comfortable seven wicket victory over Middleton, maintaining their push at the top of Division Two.
After winning the toss and electing to bat on a good surface in glorious overhead conditions, Middleton were restricted to 193-7 from their 50 overs thanks to a disciplined all round bowling performance from Nelson.
Professional Tyler McGladdery led the way with the ball, claiming 3-41, including the prized wicket of his opposite number. Neil Thompson produced another outstanding spell, finishing with remarkable figures of 1-30 from 13 overs, including six maidens, while Khurram Nazir picked up 2-53 and Gul Sabir added a wicket late in the innings.
Only Middleton skipper Rehan Udwadia, who finished unbeaten on 67, offered prolonged resistance as Nelson consistently chipped away with wickets to keep the home side in check.
Nelson’s reply got off to another positive start, with Hassan Fazal striking 33 before Sam Holt continued his rich vein of form with an excellent 72 from just 62 balls, including 11 boundaries, to put the visitors firmly in control.
Following Holt’s dismissal, captain McGladdery took over with the bat, finishing unbeaten on 59 from just 52 deliveries, including nine fours and a six. He shared an unbroken stand with Tom Bradshaw to guide Nelson home with 20 overs to spare.
The victory keeps Nelson third in Division Two, now just five points behind leaders Crompton and only three adrift of second placed Accrington. With nine matches remaining, it is shaping up to be a thrilling race to the finish.
The 1st XI will host fifth placed Rochdale at Seedhill on Sunday
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