JOE Crichard hammered a whirlwind 80 as Herefordshire County Cricket Club’s 2nd team tied a thrilling match against Wiltshire Academy at Brockhampton.

In reply to Herefordshire 234-9, Wiltshire needed 10 runs off the last over and scrambled two off the last ball to finish on 234-7.

Team manager Tom Bevan said: “This was a superb game played to a high standard where the team earned their first positive result following the establishment of the set-up in 2013.

“Progress is being made and this is highlighted through the regular appearances of Will Barrett and Jamie McIlroy in the first team.

“It is pleasing to see a Herefordshire feel to the first-team side with the likes of Ben Stebbings and Dave Exall in addition to Will Barrett and McIlroy.

“A core is being built in the 2nd XI which may not be as large as we would like but those who are contributing to this core are really making an impression.”

Crichard starred with the bat, bullying the middle overs and smashing 11 boundaries in his 63-ball knock.

Jack Taylor made 25, Ian Bullock struck 21 and Taylor Pugh hit an unbeaten 18 as Herefordshire made a respectable total.

Taylor Pugh (1-24) was the pick of Herefordshire’s bowlers and was supported by Max Backhouse (1-31) and Jack Taylor (2-68).

Herefordshire’s next match is against Gloucestershire Academy at Brockhampton on Thursday, July 24.