BECKWITSHAW captain Ben Quick praised star batsman John Inglis after he powered them into the semi-finals of the Waddilove cup on Sunday.

This followed hot on the heels of a narrow maximum point win over close rivals Burley in Aire Wharfe Division One the previous day.

‘Shaw welcome mid-table side Otley tomorrow (1.30pm start) boosted by the return of spinner Richard Pearson and the current form of a number of key players.

With Beckwithshaw moving up into third place, Quick is looking forward to taking another six points and keeping the pressure on table-toppers Rawdon.

“It is the start of the second half of the season and there is everything to play for,” said Quick.

“We are going well in the league and through to the Waddilove semi-final which is pleasing.

“A number of players such as John Inglis and James Lilley are hitting form at the right time, and we also welcome back Richard Pearson after a knee operation.

“Otley are a decent side and we know quite a bit about them. They have picked up some good wins in recent weeks and they have got an excellent overseas in Dale Tormey and a good batsman in Sam Smith.

“However, we go there looking to take maximum points again and close the gap at the top.”

On Saturday ‘Shaw chased down 121 with one wicket to spare. The victory was set up by youngster James Lilley who took a hat-trick in his haul of 7-50 with Nick Louden taking 3-33.

“James bowled fantastically well on Saturday and James Ford also showed great application with the bat in the face of some quick bowling from Burley’s overseas.”

In the cup, a majestic knock from John Inglis (185) and good support from Phil Critchley (94) enabled Beckwithshaw to amass 329-2. Phil Thompson’s 5-37

ensured that Upper Wharfedale were never in the contest, finishing on 126 all out. ‘Shaw will play Burley away in the last four on July 19.

“John’s innings on Sunday was absolutely devastating and he showed his true class,” admitted Quick.

In Division Two BILTON are in confident mood ahead of tomorrow’s mid-table clash at home to Steeton after taking five points from their game against Colton last weekend.

Skipper Andy Walker is positive that his side can overturn the opening day reverse his side suffered as they start the second half of the season.

“They beat us in the first game of the season, so we really owe them one this weekend,” he said.

“We have got the same side out this weekend, only the second time this year that we have been able to do that, so I’m pleased that we are keeping some consistency.”

Last weekend saw Darren Blenkiron notch 80 in a competitive total of 205-9.