Superb showing as Lincolnshire hit summit of Unicorns T20 competition

Lincolnshire County Cricket Club climbed to the top of their Unicorns T20 competition group by defeating Cumberland in both of their matches at Penrith over the weekend.

Heavy rain resulted in the first match being reduced to just five overs per side.

Cumberland won the toss, elected to bat and totalled what looked like a competitive tally of 47-3.

However, Lincolnshire chased down this total for the loss of just two wickets in only 3.5 overs, as Tom Keast top scored with 34 not out off 13 balls with four fours and two sixes.

The second match was interrupted by rain on two occasions.

This resulted in a total reduction of three overs per side.

Cumberland again won the toss and elected to bat first.

The home side posted a competitive 158-4 in 17 overs, with Josh Boyne (47 not out) and Gary Pratt (43 not out) being the main contributors.

Undeterred, Lincolnshire duly chased down a revised total of 160 for the loss of three wickets with three overs to spare.

Usman Arshad was their top scorer with 74 off 48 balls, including six fours and five sixes.

He received strong support from team-mate Joe Kendall, who made a solid 39 not out.

As a result of their dominant displays, Lincolnshire move to the top of the table with a maximum eight points from their four matches.

The County side now turn their attention to the 50 over Knockout Trophy when they host Cheshire, the current holders, at Bracebridge Heath Cricket Club on Sunday (11am start).