THERE was no happy return to South Devon CC for Thorverton captain David Baldock as his old side defeated his current one by eight wickets.

Baldock, recently installed as Thors’ captain after the resignation of Graham White, was a South Devon youngster and played in their 1st XI before moving to the Exeter area.

Thorverton belatedly got off the mark in the B Division seven days earlier with a win over Dartington & Totnes – and were looking to follow it up against winless South Devon.

It didn’t go to plan though as Thorverton were bowled out for 166 – James Maxwell making a top score of 44 – which South Devon knocked off with more than 13 overs to spare thanks to an unbeaten 80 by Divan Marais.

It was South Devon’s first win of the season and just the lift they needed in the fight against relegation.

“It was a day where we got things right for most of the game and the majority of decisions went or way,” said South Devon captain Jon Martin.

“We kept the pressure on with the ball and didn't chuck our wickets away when chasing.

“At least now we've got the first one under our belt and something to build on.”

Thorverton had a lot to do after dipping to 38 for four early on – Baldock among the casualties

Sam Reddick (34) and Maxwell put on 63 for the fifth wicket, but they were picked off  by Jon Martin (2-13) and James Allen (1-25) as Thors faltered.

No one made more than Andy Pitt (11) as Dave Knowles (3-24) prised out the lower order.

Knowles and Mark Andrews gave South Devon a 40 for two start, then Marais and Richard Beaumont took over.

Marais took the lead with 13 fours and two sixes while Beaumont kept the other end going for 37 not out in the winning stand of 128 unbroken.

Beaumont survived two confident shouts for caught behind, to the frustration of the Thorverton fielders.

Jake Choules, Adriane Morrison and Gill Crouch all bowled at four an over or less, but the wickets would not come.

Losing skipper  Baldock was philosophical after the match.

“I thought we did well to recover from 38 for four to reach a total which gave us a chance,” said Baldock.

“South Devon’s change bowlers made better use of the pitch, although our opening pair bowled well without any luck.

“Marais batted really well for his 80 and South Devon capitalised on the situation when decisions went in their favour.”

Thoverton are at home to Tavistock this Saturday in their last game before the halfway stage of the season.