A CLEAR measure of the progress and inclusivity of the I’Anson League was demonstrated at the Jubilee Cricket Ground last Saturday (May 14) where four of Alton’s women team took the field against Kingsley in Division Five.

Despite losing the match, the outstanding performance of the day came from Bath University student Abi Green.

A product of the Hampshire women and girls’ establishment, Abi ripped out the heart of the Kingsley line-up, moving the ball both ways seemingly at will.

With two leg-before decisions and five victims clean bowled, it was a masterclass of attacking the stumps with devastating impact, ending up with a magnificent seven for 38, the best bowling figures for a woman in the 120-year history of the I’Anson League.

Only Harding from Kingsley showed any intent to counter attack before he also had his off stump knocked back.

With Josie Morris, also from Bath University, taking a wicket – thanks to a sharp stumping from Matt Jeffrey – the women of Alton took eight of the nine wickets to fall.

Kingsley ended the innings on 143 for nine.

The visitors regrouped at tea and came out determined to show they were not to be beaten.

Skipper Matt Cooper led the way with five wickets of his own, ultimately leading Kingsley to a 43-run victory.

While the victory went to Kingsley, the accolades went to Abi who, along with the other women of Alton CC, is leading the light for greater recognition and inclusivity in the game.