SOUTH Devon remain in the D Division West promotion places despite a 178-run mauling away to leaders Paignton 2nd XI.
The Newton Abbot side knew they had plenty of work to do after Paignton racked-up 305 for six Brenton Pedley stroking a century at the top of the order. South Devon’s cause was not helped by losing opening bowler Mali Marshall in his third over due to an injury.
Pedley, whose 108 featured 16 fours and two sixes, was the fourth man out when the score reached 242. The big stand was one of 164 with Cole McFarland (83).
Obaidulla Padshakh walloped four fours and three sixes in a rapid 38 at the end.
Sean Andrews (2-32) was easily the most efficient and effective of South Devon’s bowlers.
Marshall was fit enough to bat and made the top score of 43 in South Devon’s all-out total of 127.
Other than Jack Allen making 17 and Kalen Warne 16 it was a miserable set of scores with
with no one else getting further than eight.
Tom Blundell led Paignton’s bowling party with three for 22 and there were two wickets each for ex-Devon seamer George Benton and Rio Koyikkara.
Richard Beaumont, the South Devon captain, admitted his team were ‘outplayed in every aspect’ but added there were some mitigating factors.
“Paignton had a pretty good side, with a wealth of experience, and we were missing a few key players,” said Beaumont.
“It didn't help that Mali strained a hamstring after two overs and that we dropped about 10 catches and bowled too many extras.”
“Hopefully, the younger guys learned a few things and we move quickly forward to Chelston & Kingskerswell at home this Saturday.”
Paignton top the table on 126 points ahead of South Devon (102) then Lewdown (97).