Aston Rowant’s first foray into the national rounds ended with a five-wicket win in Somerset yesterday.

Set a modest total of 154-9 by hosts Ashcott & Shapwick, Rowant batted sensibly, before passing their total with an over to go, after a fine all-round display from Tim Morgan.

Although the were always ahead of the clock, some late wickets gave them minor concern, before Thad Cooper hit the winning runs to set up a clash away to Glamorgan & Gwent champions, Miskin Manor, near Cardiff, in the next round on July 12.

Having won the toss, Ashcott opted to bat first, but were soon under pressure as Karl Penhale and Ryan Dutton took early wickets.

A fourth-wicket stand of 55 brought up the century, only for Paul Humphreys, who has enjoyed success in this competition before with Shipton-under-Wychwood, to make two quick breakthroughs.

Morgan then ripped through the tail, returning 4-39 from seven overs.

In reply, Rowant got off to a superb start.

Openers Morgan and Alex Jewell shared an opening partnership of 80 – aided by some generous bowling.

On three separate occasions the hosts conceded five wides as Rowant took command.

Morgan eventually fell for a hard-fought 19, and Jewell for 39.

No 3 Chris Watling upped the run-rate, but wickets then started to fall.

Penhale and Chris Eaton chipped in, but despite Dave Rudge’s 3-26, Rowant got home, thanks to Cooper’s boundary.