A remarkable 519 runs were scored across 80 overs, but it was North Weald CC 2nd XI who came out on top with a seven-wicket victory over Harlow CC 5th XI in a superb Division 4 run-fest.

After winning the toss and electing to bat, Harlow piled up 259-6 from their 40 overs, thanks largely to another outstanding innings from Jack Sykes, who carried his bat for a magnificent 139 not out from 120 balls, peppering the boundary with 29 fours. He was well supported by Marius Scholtz (46) and Conrad Scholtz (22) as Harlow set an imposing target. For North Weald, Paul Mount and Ben Fuller both picked up two wickets.

North Weald produced an equally impressive chase, reaching 260-3 in just 36.5 overs. V Curren laid the platform with 81, before G Fuller blasted 66 from just 46 deliveries. Unbeaten knocks from Paul Mount (64)* and Alex Pyle (15)* saw North Weald home with 19 balls to spare.

With 519 runs scored in 76.5 overs, it was a day dominated by the bat. Despite another Jack Sykes masterclass, North Weald’s aggressive and composed chase ensured they claimed the 20 points in an entertaining, high-scoring contest.