JOHN Baden’s unbeaten 70 was not enough for Swindon 2nd XI as they went down by 132 runs to big-scoring Frocester at the County Ground.

Frocester’s opener Louis Gregg notched a massive 155 not out as the away side racked up a daunting 287-5. Cameron Baden was the only Swindon bowler to slow Frocester’s run-rate below five an over, whilst picking up the wickets of Fin Dixon and Ashley Davis.

Swindon’s reply started poorly, none of the top four making double digits. John Baden’s 70 not out, with able support from Tom Codling (27) and Harrison Painter (22), keeping Swindon’s score somewhat respectable as they were bowled out for 155.

Goatacre 2nd XI’s bowlers were blown away at Downend as the hosts chased down the away side’s 171 in under 29 overs.

Number eight Harry Warner top-scored for Goatacre with a not out 37 as the tail wagged for the the visitors. Tom Ponting (24) and Keiran Seal (17 not out) at 10 and 11 respectively pushing Goatacre’s score up, with Mark Hunt’s 29 at the top of the order the only other score of note.

Downend opener Christopher Binnie took the fight to Goatacre’s bowlers, hitting a rapid 94 before being bowled by Hunt. His score set the platform as the hosts easily secured a seven-wicket win, Hunt again and Seal the only other wicket-takers.

In the second XI local derby fixture Lechlade won out against Nationwide House by just seven runs.

Charles Offord’s 72 followed up contribution’s by opening pair David Novais (38) and Jacob David-Ward (39) as visitors Lechlade notched 221-8 in their 45 overs. Darren Milne (3-25), Steve Lewis (2-24), Roger Thwaites (2-38) and Matthew Haynes (1-46) with the wickets.

Nationwide’s response fell just short as Simon Marlow’s 39 from 43 balls nearly got his side over the line, with after opener’s Thomas Hamilton 47 kick-starting their innings. David Novais (3-46) and Stanley Vas (3-51) the pick of the bowlers for Lechlade.

Rahul Dhyani’s 73 and Nick Down’s 38 proved not to be enough for Marlborough 2nd XI as Chipping Sodbury chased down the visitors 176 in 26.4 overs.

Dhyani’s impressive knock included 10 fours and a six in 92 balls as he looked to set a platform for his team. Unfortunately Down’s 38 was the only other score above 10 as Marlborough’s other batsmen offered little support.

After Andy and Oliver Rawlings had taken a wicket each to reduce Chipping Sodbury to 44-2 Marlborough failed to take another wicket. Tom Makepeace (88 not out) and Jeremy Swatton (55 not out) guiding the hosts home with some comfort.