Readers County Trophy

Abbots Langley edged to a gripping three-run win over Northchurch in the second round of the competition on Sunday after a brilliant century from Chris Chellew.

Batting first, Abbots produced an excellent innings as they reached 319 for seven from their 50 overs.

Chellew was the star of the show as the batsman scored 175 off 130 balls for the side. Six sixes and 18 fours helped fire Abbots to an impressive total while George Agius contributed an aggressive unbeaten 37.

Northchurch made Abbots fight every inch and scored just as freely, needing 18 off 18 balls to win. But tight bowling from Aiden Byrne and Chellew meant Northchurch came up just short on 316 for eight.

Chellew’s superb all-round display saw him take two for 47 while Byrne picked up two for 56 and Tom Carson came away with two for 81 for the victors.

It means Abbots Langley will face Old Elizabethans in the quarter-finals on July 19.