Royal toppled by Burnham's Khan

Burnham easily disposed of league leaders Farnham Royal on Saturday, thanks to a fantastic all round performance by Aftab Khan.

Royal skipper Ollie Clayson won the toss and, expecting the wicket to turn later, asked the hosts to bat.

Burnham’s captain Mo Fazal (pictured) obviously had similar expectations as he decided to use Khan’s off-spin as an opening option.

Royal started poorly, losing three wickets to loose shots with only 43 on the board. Dan Simpson and Clayson knuckled down and built a steady partnership until lunch, and at 124-3 Royal were well positioned to launch an assault after the break.

But due to pressure built by Khan’s tireless efforts and some very poor shot selection, Royal capitulated and were dismissed for a below-par 166.

Skipper Clayson top-scored with 55, while Khan bowled throughout the innings to take 5-24 from 24 overs.

Burnham’s response did not begin with flourishing confidence as seamer Krishmar Santokie applied pressure. But again a lack of discipline cost Royal as they gave away precious runs through wides and no-balls.

When they did get the breakthrough, Khan arrived for part two of his one-man show.

After surviving a confident lbw appeal off his second ball, he played with masterly control, defending the better deliveries while climbing into anything loose.

Partners came and went down the other end, but such was Khan’s dominance that he carried Burnham to a comfortable five-wicket victory in just the 38th over.

With his 78 not out, he outscored any of his teammates by an astonishing 61 runs.

After the game, a delighted Mo Fazal lavished praise on his player.

“His figures were incredible but well deserved,” the skipper said.

“He bowled good lines, turned the ball and showed really good patience. He had no luck earlier but grabbed five wickets after lunch.

“Our reply started well with Habib Khan and Kameron Shiraz, helped by a lot of extras, putting on about 40 in good time. Then Aftab carried on with the bat where he had left of with the ball.

“He was really positive and punished the bad ball. The guys at the other end chipped in and we won comfortably.

“Aftab was great and did exactly what you want from an overseas player.”

The result does not change either team’s league positions, but while Burnham are getting closer to safety, Farnham Royal are again drawn towards the teams below them.

On Saturday, Royal travel to Thatcham, while Burnham are at Wokingham.