Wicket-keeper/batsman Eddie Wilson again was top-scorer and James Tattersall pocketed three wickets as Yorkshire Academy cruised to Round 2 of the Solly Sports ECB Yorkshire County Premier League Cup by completing the weekend double over Driffield at Weetwood.

It was League points for the Academy after Saturday’s win – and victory by 89 runs yesterday against the same opponents in Round 1 of the knockout cup competition.

This time Driffield won the toss under cloudy skies and inserted their hosts on a damp wicket. James McNichol and fellow opener George Ross made a cautious start, but they later accelerated and their stand was one short of the 100 when Ross, 43, was bowled by Nick Hardgrave with half of the 50 overs used.

McNichol, 46, was stumped two overs later off left-arm spinner Hardgrave, but James Leaning and left-hander Wilson enjoyed a fine partnership of 78 with excellent running between the wickets before Wilson, 47, was caught behind by Danny Broumpton off Sam Drury. Ones became twos as both batsmen showed their awareness of the weaker fielders.

David Girling and Leaning put on 16 in just over three overs, but Girling, 6, fell to Drury, who had taken four wickets the day before. It was strange that Drury had come so late into the attack, but the Academy benefited as the first four batsmen passed 40. No one reached 50, but the Academy could be pleased with their 216-5.

The Academy struck quickly after tea, when Clarkson was run out by a good throw from Tattersall. Girling moved the ball to dispatch Woodmancey at the first attempt. 18-2…and 24-3 when James Wainman had Will Norman lbw. 

Wainman bowled with pace and accuracy in his opening spell, and only Drury, 32, and Hardgrave, 46, batted with confidence. Ben Coad bowled straight and removed wicket-keeper Broumpton - caught behind by Wilson, who proved again what a useful recruit he is.

Coad bowled skipper David Brent, and only the threatening rain could save Driffield. It never came, and it was left to spinners Ross and Tattersall to clean up the tail - a task they enjoyed, especially Tattersall who finished with the excellent figures of 3-20 in 6.2 overs. Yorkshire have yet another leg spinner!

Yet again, an improved display. The Academy now meet Hull, who go through to Round 2 by defeating Sheffield Collegiate, at Weetwood on Sunday, June 12.

Words and Statistics: HAROLD GALLEY