Fakenham await Test high-flyer

Fakenham cricket fans should finally see Sri Lankan Test batsman Michael Vandort in action on Saturday when the EAPL side entertain third-place Clacton at Highfield Lawn (11am start).

All seemed set fair for him to receive final visa clearance and fly to this country earlier this week, according to club chairman Martin Turner. This followed a further delay last week which hindered a depleted Fakenham side even more for their away game with Horsford, writes John Cushion.

Fakenham held out for a draw with Australian Keegan De Ridder stepping up from the second XI, which did not have a game, to score 52 in a reply of 183 for seven to 267 for six.

Jaik Mickleburgh, given permission to play for Horsford by Essex, cracked a fine 161 before injuring a knee. Fakenham's attack was missing the injured Angus Stewart, who played as a batsman, and Ben Smart.

Fakenham, who were the early division leaders, have slipped to eighth out of the 12 teams, but are far better placed than at this time last season when they were bottom, still looking for a win after five matches.

Fakenham comfortably won their Lady Mary Trophy first round match at Swaffham on Sunday. They made 250 then bowled Swaffham out for 125 in 37 overs.

Fakenham's Alliance Division Three side, in mid-table, visit second-place Hunstanton.

In West Norfolk League Division Two, Fakenham A made 138-9 to Sheringham A's 130. On Saturday they entertain Heacham 2pm.

The Division Four side lost a run-packed match at Highfield Lawn against Castle Acre.

Fakenham B made 241, Dean Futter completing his century with 121, Aaron Riseborough making 28 and Simon Featherstone 31.

But with 15-year-old Jack Bolby in fine form with 112, Castle Acre reached 242-4 off the final delivery of the match.

Fakenham B are at Beeston on Saturday.

In the Mid Norfolk League on Sunday, Fakenham entertain Old Buckenham while Fakenham B travel to Bacton.