Series even between Marsa and West XI

Over the weekend, Marsa CC played newcomers West XI from the United Kingdom in a two-game series.

On Saturday, Marsa batted first and totalled 190 runs. Sarfraz Ali and Chris Naudi opened the batting with Ali being the first wicket to fall for four runs and Naudi following soon after with 24.

Two more quick wickets and Marsa were in deep trouble. But then, Frank Spiteri and Tim Edwards saved the innings for the home team. Spiteri hit 53 before being caught and Edwards also surpassed the half-century mark, 55 not out.

Faraaz chipped in with 23 runs towards the end of the innings as Marsa were also aided with 24 extras in their total. For the tourists, Dane and Hill both took two wickets each.

Marsa's opening bowler Martin Llewlyn did his side wonders, ripping through the top order and was the main wicket-taker with four wickets.

Ali continued the damage to the visitors, taking three wickets. West XI were bowled out for 135 runs with Taylor top scoring with 35 runs and three other batsmen making it to double figures - Rawlings, Wright and Bender. Marsa won the first game.

On Sunday Marsa again batted first and this time totalled a healthy score of 218 runs.

Ali top-scored with 64 runs while Naudi made 59. Javed Shah was also into the runs with a fine 35. Billy Pitts (14 not out) and Jim Towers (11 not out) were the only other batsmen to make it into double figures. Dane, again, was the main wicket-taker, this time with three wickets.

Dane also featured in the batting scores as he set up victory for his team with a scorching 82 runs. The game was still in the balance with the home side only needing two wickets to win with two overs to go but Taylor secured victory with his 29 runs to tie the series.

This week is going to be a busy one for the home side who play a team from New Zealand, Ansells CC, today and Thursday. On Saturday, Marsa will take on West Norfolk.

All starts are scheduled for 10.30 a.m.