IN a weekend of exciting cricket in division two, the battle for promotion and relegation intensified across the league. Toby Hayman and Joseph Kiff once again showcased their batting brilliance, steering Burton to a massive win that keeps them firmly in the hunt for promotion. Meanwhile, Johnston are beginning to feel the pressure after a narrow loss to Herbrandston, who now lead the league by three points. Elsewhere, Pembroke triumphed in the local derby, and Llanrhian secured a crucial win to keep the relegation battle wide open.

Burton vs. Lamphey: Hayman and Kiff dominate as Burton cruise to victory

Burton’s charge towards promotion shows no signs of slowing down, thanks to yet another masterclass from their batting line-up. Batting first, Burton posted an imposing 345 for 3 in their 20 overs, with Toby Hayman and Joseph Kiff leading the charge. Hayman, who is in the form of his life, smashed a scintillating 109, further solidifying his status as one of the county’s best. He was well supported by Jack Davies, who contributed a quickfire 47, and Jonathan Venables with a brisk 21.

While Kiff, who continued his fine run of form with a magnificent 102 not out. Kiff, along with Dan Llewellyn, who added an unbeaten 49, ensured Burton finished with a total that was always going to be tough to chase.

Lamphey’s response never got going as they were skittled out for just 88 in 3 overs, suffering a massive 257-run defeat. Nick Shelmerdine’s 48 was the only resistance of note as Burton’s bowlers, led by Nick Jones (4-13) and Dan Ridge (3-24), ran riot. Jack Bevan also chipped in with 2-21 to complete the demolition. A result that means Lamphey’s chances of survival are very slim.

Johnston vs. Herbrandston: Johnston slip as Herbrandston edge thriller

Johnston’s promotion hopes took a hit as they suffered a nail-biting 6-run loss to Herbrandston, who now top the league by three points. Chasing 159, Johnston fell just short, all out for 153 in 8 overs. Despite a fighting 44 from Liam Boswell and a steady 38 from Leigh Walters, Johnston couldn’t quite get over the line, with Herbrandston’s Charlie Malloy proving decisive with 4-23.

Earlier, Herbrandston’s Harry Nicholas top-scored with 73, guiding his side to 159 before being bowled out in 18 overs. The match went down to the wire, with Johnston now looking nervously over their shoulders as the promotion race heats up.

Pembroke vs. Pembroke Dock: Local Derby Delight for Pembroke

In the much-anticipated local derby, Pembroke emerged victorious, chasing down Pembroke Dock’s 173 for 6. Pembroke’s top order delivered when it mattered most, with Jack Harries leading the way with a composed 60. Contributions from Luke Butler (35) and Phil Hay (33 not out) ensured Pembroke reached their target with relative ease.

Pembroke Dock’s innings was anchored by Rhys Daley’s 55 and Scott Griffiths’ unbeaten 43, but it wasn’t enough to secure the win. Sam Davies was the pick of Pembroke’s bowlers, taking 3-23.

Carew II vs. Llanrhian: Llanrhian’s Crucial win keeps relegation battle alive

Llanrhian picked up a crucial 12-run victory over Carew II, a win that could prove pivotal in their fight against relegation. Batting first, Llanrhian posted 192 all out, thanks to a brilliant hundred from Jack Jones. In reply a there was a determined 86 from Ethan Hall and useful contributions from Barry Evans (28) and Rhys Grigg (22). However Llanrhian’s total proved just enough as Carew fell 12 runs short when they were bowled out for 180.

Llechryd vs. Hook: Hook secure comfortable win

Hook secured a comfortable 7-wicket win over Llechryd. Chasing 144 for 8, Hook made light work of the target, reaching 145 for 3 with ease. Jake Wicks starred with the bat, finishing unbeaten on 73, while Jacob Lay added a solid 45 to guide Hook to victory.

As the season heads towards its climax, Burton’s path to promotion looks increasingly certain, thanks to the unstoppable form of Toby Hayman and Joseph Kiff. However, the battle for the top spot and the fight to avoid relegation remain finely poised, promising plenty of drama in the coming weeks. Johnston’s slip-up has made the promotion race even more intriguing, while Llanrhian’s win means the relegation battle is far from decided.