A SENSATIONAL unbeaten stand of 154 between captain Gary Loveday and Simon Myles inspired Berkshire Over 50s to a convincing eight-wicket success against Sussex, writes Richard Ashton.

On a good batting track at Finchampstead, Sussex openers Scott Stratton (47) and skipper Rajesh Sharma shared 72 for the first wicket, their partnership only ended when the former was stumped by Andrew Davis off the bowling of John McDonald.

McDonald (2-20 off nine overs) struck again shortly after as he bowled Mike Pannett before Peter Randall had Sharma caught by Myles to make it 98-3.

Myles (2-56) then accounted for David Robertshaw and Damian Cummins, but a timely unbeaten 53 from Jason Robinson ensured Sussex set a respectable 220-6.

Berkshire fell to 47-2 in reply, but Loveday (71no) and Myles (90no) took control of the game and knocked the runs off in 40.3 overs.

Berkshire Over 50s 2nds picked up an excellent seven-wicket win at Middlesex.

A useful opening burst from Rob Barrett (3-28) put the visitors in a good position, and Steve West (3-23 from seven overs) kept the pressure firmly on as Middlesex were restricted to 176-9, wicketkeeper Grery Bacon collecting a catch and a stumping.

Dean Allen-Turner and captain Peter Henly (45) put on 102 for the first wicket as Berkshire’s reply started well, and Allen-Turner went on to score an unbeaten 100 to lead his side home with almost eight overs to spare.

A brutal 81 not out from only 68 balls by Mark Simmons helped Berkshire Over 60s to a comfortable 73-run win against Sussex.

Captain Dave Tooze also added 72 and Ronnie Brock 49 as Berkshire totalled 243-5, and Sussex were always behind the rate before eventually closing on 170-4.

Berkshire Over 60s 2nds lost by 69 runs at Hampshire.

Captain Tony Adams (91no) and Peter Tapper (69) put on 148 for the third wicket as the hosts racked up 225-3 in their 45 overs, and outside of Don Townsin’s 51, there was little of note for Berkshire as they were bowled out for 156.