Stolk enters record books to boost Audley's chances

STEVE Stolk equalled the highest individual score in the top flight of the North Staffs and South Cheshire League to bolster Audley's chances of Premier A survival.

- Chris Travers

Stolk blasted a remarkable 215 not out - matching Iain Carr's feat for Moddershall against Barlaston back in 2003 - as Audley easily beat Alsager in Saturday's rain-affected encounter.

Audley went into the clash against the division's back markers needing a victory to put more daylight between themselves and the danger zone.

And given the fact it was the only encounter to reach a positive conclusion, they ended the day in sixth spot and 14 points clear of trouble.

Stolk may have equalled Carr's landmark, but alongside Jack Redman, he shattered the highest third-wicket partnership record in topflight history.

The Audley pair came together on 11-2 after seven overs - and were unbeaten as they put on 317 to guide the home side to 328-2 from their 45 overs.

Asif Raza had struck twice to boost Alsager's hopes early on, but it then became the Stolk show for the remainder of the innings.

The South African faced just 140 balls and plundered 23 fours and 10 sixes in his knock to put the game beyond Alsager.

Redman was more than happy to play the supporting role to his teammate, but still walked off on 63 not out, having hit seven fours.

A rain delay then saw Alsager, who are 30 points adrift of safety with three games to go, needing 231 to win from 26 overs.