THERE was an important 2nd XI championship game at Blackstone, Sussex this week, and the home side fielded a strong, near first XI top five captained by Michael Yardy against Somerset who fielded a near first XI bowling attack.

George Dockrell bowled just three overs in the first innings, taking the scalp of Will Beer in a return of 1-6.

Somerset took a first innings lead of 54, (although George was out 2nd ball for 0), but an unbeaten 178 by Luke Wells (Dockrell 8-1-51-0) allowed Sussex to set a target of 264.

Somerset were soon 12-3 and never recovered, making 197 all out, with Dockrell making 6.

The final of the 2nd XI championship will now be between Essex and Leicestershire neither of whom feature any Irish players.

Several other Irish players were in club action – Shane Getkate helping the Poynters’ Sunbury club through to the final of the Royal London National Club Championship.

Former Middlesex batsman Adam London spearheaded a seven wicket win with 89 not out, and Getkate wasn’t needed to bat or bowl.

Sunbury play Sandiacre Town from Derbyshire in the final on 14 September on the County Ground in Bristol.

Stuart Poynter, who may yet feature in that final, was in action twice for Brandon in the North East PL, making 37 in a 38 run defeat to Sacriston and 39 in a two-wicket win over Seaham Harbour.

Sonny Cott made 38 for Leatherhead who went down by 55 runs in the Surrey Premier League, while Steven Ogilby was run out for 29 as Chester Boughton Hall CC chased down Oxton's 64 all out for the loss of two wickets.