CENTURION Simon Parmenter laid the foundations for Saffron Walden’s convincing 161-run win over Copdock & Old Ipswichian.

Saffron Walden Reporter: Tim SmithTim Smith (Image: Archant)

The batsman formed a stellar partnership with Joshua Wells as the visitors took the game away from their opponents, accelerating to a final total of 324-5 dec.

Captain Giles Ecclestone, who made 55, was pleased to see his side dominate with bat and ball.

“I’m very happy with the performance and thought we played really well,” he said. “The conditions were tricky in the morning session and the ball was swinging around a lot so we had to fight hard to reach 90-3.

“Once we got the new ball after lunch it became a very good wicket to bat on and both Simon and Joshua played brilliantly. Copdock fell apart a bit in the end and I was confident we had enough runs to bowl them out for the win.”

Parmenter’s 100 not out included 12 fours and one six, while he was ably supported by an 88-run knock from Wells. The pair steadied the ship as Parmenter came to the crease with Walden reeling on 115-4 following Ecclestone’s dismissal.

Tom Rash was the pick of Copdock’s bowlers with 3-109.

Set a mammoth 325 for win, the home side never looked in contention from the moment they slipped to 70-3. Despite resistance from James East, who produced a brave 47, Copdock were skittled for 163-9. One of their players was unable to bat after breaking his finger while fielding earlier in the day.

Tim Smith was the star performer for Walden as he grabbed five wickets to finish the game with figures of 5-38.

Ecclestone’s men were back in action for a T20 charity match against Essex County Cricket Club on Monday.

Star players including New Zealand international batsman Hamish Rutherford and seam bowler Tymal Mills were welcomed to the Anglo American Playing Fields as the two sides put on an entertaining show.

Ecclestone added: “It was a fun day despite the weather and I think the crowd were treated to an entertaining contest. Everybody being able to meet the Essex players was great and I think the club did itself proud.”

Third placed Walden are back in action this Saturday as they welcome Burwell, one spot below them in the league, to the Anglo American Playing Fields. The game is due to start at 11am.