MARTYN James claimed a career best 8-45 as Basingstoke and North Hants ended their home league campaign with a 47-run victory against Wokingham.

The victory ended any slim chances the Bountymen had of slipping into the relegation dog fight, but will leaves their Berkshire rivals sweating on the final day of the Thames Valley League division one season next weekend.

The visitors set a target of 168 for victory soon slumped to 49-5 as James and Jon Bradley (2-45) got amongst the wickets and were eventually bowled out for 120.

Earlier, Basingstoke captain Russell Droy won the toss and decided to bat.

The skipper top scored with 65 which included 10 fours, but he was only one of four players to make double figures.

The others being fellow opener James (14), Dan Coombs (43) and Matt Thankachan (11 not out) in an all out total of 167.

See Monday’s Gazette for a full report.