CLACTON Cricket Club hero Lewis Kirk has reflected on his best-ever display after returning the explosive bowling figures of nine for 37 in Saturday’s victory against East Bergholt.

The long-serving all-rounder was in stunning form in the Marshall Hatchick Two Counties Championship division two contest, inspiring the Seasiders to a 112-run success at Gandish Road.

He reduced Bergholt’s batting line-up to rubble by claiming their first nine wickets.

It left the hosts shell-shocked and skittled for just 90, with Clacton having earlier posted 202 for nine in their 45 overs.

“To get the victory was very pleasing but to have such personal success was obviously a huge cherry on the cake,” said Kirk.

“To say I enjoyed it would be an understatement!

“Bradley Pitts and I both started well when we opened the bowling.

“We’re a good combination and when we’re having a good day, we tend to build up a lot of pressure and dominate.

“That’s exactly what happened on Saturday.

“Brad bowled so well without taking a wicket and although I’ll get the plaudits, he deserves a massive pat on the back.

“I got their first nine batsmen out and had a couple of balls to try and claim them all, but unfortunately it wasn’t to be.

“It was a great feeling and there was a fair bit of disbelief afterwards.

“We had a team barbecue planned for the evening so it was a nice day to do it. We all got to celebrate together.”

Having also chipped in with 36 runs, Kirk was in no doubt that this was his greatest display in 13 years of playing men’s cricket for the Vista Roaders.

“I’ve got seven wickets before and in more recent years a couple of five-fors,” said the former Colbayns High School pupil.

“But this was my best performance ever and the fact I was able to contribute a few runs was also really pleasing, batting in difficult conditions. I’m led to believe that one other bowler took ten wickets for the club before but that was many years ago.

“I remember someone else getting nine for 40-odd about ten years ago but I’d be very proud to think that these are the second-best bowling figures in the 125-year history of Clacton Cricket Club.”

Kirk, 25, progressed through the youth ranks at Clacton and has been playing men’s cricket for the club since he was 12.