ASHTON on Mersey stormed back into the Cheshire Cricket League Division One promotion mix with hard-fought 63-run win at Runcorn.

Being asked to bat first, Ashton found themselves in trouble as the home side ripped out three early wickets thanks to some top-rate opening bowling.

But Ben Davies (74) and Akash Patel (44) took the attack back to Runcorn with a splendid 100-run partnership. Both players struck the ball to all parts as Runcorn’s support bowling wilted.

The return to the attack of fiery Kiwi Nathan McNichol turned the game again as he removed Davies and then took an all bowled hat-trick in the same over. This was fast bowling at its best which left Ashton on the brink at 133-8.

But Ashton’s long batting line-up came to the rescue as Tom Scott (31 not out) worked with Luke Turner and Peter Edmondson to post a total of 189 they could defend.

The splendid McNicol finished with a well-deserved 6-43.

In reply, Runcorn struggled to challenge the run rate as Josh Knowles and Andy Roscow took an early wicket each.

The introduction of Edmonson brought more joy for Ashton, before spinner Mike Roberts (5-39) took over to destroy the Runcorn challenge and skittle them out for 126.

Ashton’s fielding effort was excellent with both Patel and Edmondson taking stunning catches to support the bowlers.

This was a much-needed win for Ashton who will be relishing the visit of Irby to The Beets on Saturday.

The second XI made it a maximum points Saturday as they demolished Northwich. Northwich were all out for 60 (Luke Crampton 5-8) before Ashton eased to 64 without loss.