Exeter's Cricketers reach semi-finals

Batting first, Exeter accumulated a total of 200 runs, Curtis and Mills both putting in a strong showing at the crease, scoring 115 between them in showery conditions. Durham’s chase was then mitigated by an exceptional bowling performance, Exeter’s 1^st team Captain Joe Barrs, taking three wickets for just 13, to help the side take victory by just 14 runs on a Duckworth Lewis ruling.

Cricket is one of the University of Exeter’s Focus Sports which receives specialist support from the High Performance Unit, and benefits from the use of the dedicated Devon Cricket Centre at the Sports Park.

Despite a relatively slow start to the season, the side have gained momentum in its latter stages, winning their last four consecutive matches. Director of Cricket Julian Wyatt commented: “It’s taken us a while to find our form outdoors.

“The first three games saw us take just one point, so we know we had to win all of our remaining four matches to be certain of a spot in the semi-final – something we have never achieved before.

“A close encounter against Oxford saw us win by seven runs, before beating Cardiff UWIC by eight wickets, and Solent by 17 runs. Victory against Durham makes it four from four and with the boys showing the form that they are at the moment I am confident that we have what it takes to go all the way.”

Exeter will travel to Cambridge on 16 June in the hope of reaching the finals at the end of the month and replicating their indoor gold from the winter season.

“It’s been a brilliant season so far.” Added Julian “Our indoor results were superb and we now lie third in the Outdoor Premier A league table. Exeter has fully established itself as a top four cricketing University in the UK, which is an amazing achievement considering we are up against some big MCCU funded academies.

“All of the players are determined to create a legacy of achievement and I have no doubt that that will show through in the semi-finals.”