Burridge continue great form... Portsmouth edge to win

The visitors won the toss and Nicholas McMurray soon removed both the Ventnor openers.

Geoff Dods (five for 57) maintained the pressure by grabbing five wickets with his right arm medium pace which saw Ventnor bowled out for 166 runs.

Burridge easily reached their target in under 36 overs as Joe Collings-Wells (67 not out), William Steward (25) and Dods (30) took them past their target with some skilful batting.

Visiting captain Rick Ankers was delighted to see his side move to the top of the league particularly after last season’s struggles.

‘It was another solid performance and we are doing alright at the moment,’ said Ankers.

‘We have learned a lot from last season and our youngsters are another year older in their development.

‘Making a good start helps because that breeds confidence throughout the squad.

‘We had Ventnor at 125 for six at lunch but they came out afterwards and added a quick 30 plus runs.

‘Last season our heads might have gone down but now the lads are able to stick at it and drive any advantage we have home.

‘Geoff Dods is in fine form and is averaging 70, scoring 210 runs in just four innings.’

In division one, Portsmouth captain Rich Locke admitted his team got out of jail in their low-scoring win at Bournemouth.

The home side were skittled out for a measly 73 runs in 30 overs with Vikram Dawson (three for 25) the pick of the Portsmouth bowlers.

After reaching 26, the visitors lost four wickets without adding another run.

Fraser Hay (15) and Dawson (17) rescued the situation.

‘It was one weird game of cricket and one that we have to say we got away with,’ said Locke.

Sarisbury Athletic gave the Totton & Eling bowlers a torrid time as they amassed a total 335 for seven on their way to a 77-run win.

Ryan Covey (61), Basil Akram (58), Harry Hovey (58), Pete Hammond (82) and Sam Floyd (44 not out) enjoyed themselves at the wicket.