Ribblesdale League: Naeem hits another ton

1:50pm Monday 12th May 2008

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Baber Naeem cracked his second century of the season as Edenfield maintained their challenge for the Veka Ribblesdale League senior division title.

The Pakistani all-rounder has turned in sublime performances with bat and ball this season; the contributory factors to Edenfield's climb into second place.

And he blasted a quickfire ton to help his team to a stunning, rain affected victory at Clitheroe.

Nick James made 53 as the 2006 champions reached 178-7 from 45 overs.

It soon became apparent the total was undefendable, especially with Naeem at his bludgeoning best.

When the rain came Edenfield had reached 167-0 in just 24.5 overs with Naeem 106 and Greg Smithson playing the supporting role with 50.

Despite their victory on a faster scoring rate, Edenfield trail leaders Great Harwood by seven points.

Syed Shahabuddin is warming to his role as paid man at Harwood, taking 5-58 to dismiss bottom of the table Earby for 125.

The table toppers breezed to their victory target for the loss of just two wickets.

Baxenden are gaining momentum and beat Ribblesdale Wanderers by three wickets after a low scoring game.

Barnoldswick's early season promise faded as they went down at home to Read.

Barlick's' total of 104 never looked enough and so it proved as Read reached their revised target of 98 for the loss of just six wickets.

Cherry Tree are third but lost at Settle in another rain affected contest.

Ahmer Mirza made 57 and Scott Friend 89 in Cherry Tree's total of 200 in 45 overs; Jeffrey Ellis claiming 6-48.

Padiham lost eight wickets in the run chase but Tom Davidson stayed around long enough to contribute an invaluable 52.

letsport@the-lt.co.uk