CLACTON Cricket Club skipper Imran Sheikh described match-winner Harlan Greig as a “class act” after the South African inspired his side to victory at Little Bardfield Village.

The Seasiders prevailed by seven wickets in Saturday’s Marshall Hatchick Two Counties Championship second division contest with Greig the hero, taking four wickets and then top-scoring with an unbeaten 74.

It means Clacton are fifth in the table heading into this weekend’s next match against Ipswich and East Suffolk, at Vista Road (1pm start).

“Harlan’s been superb so far this season,” said captain Sheikh.

“He’s a real match-winner for us and, once again, he showed what he’s capable of with his all-round performance against Bardfield.

“He’s really fitted in well at the club and he’s a class act, both on and off the field.”

After losing the toss, Clacton fielded first and restricted Bardfield to 182 for nine, with Greig’s four wickets coming at the expense of 50 runs in 12 overs.

Clacton and Frinton Gazette:

Ryan Chamberlain and Sheikh took two wickets apiece, for 23 and 28 runs respectively, while Lewis Kirk claimed one victim, for 34 runs.

In reply, Clacton had little fuss in reaching their target, making 188 for three and getting home in the 34th over.

In addition to Greig’s 74, which featured five fours and five sixes, Kieron Parkes contributed 48 and Bradley Pitts 37.

Looking ahead to the remainder of the season, Sheikh added: “I hope we can really push on as a team, climb the table and challenge for promotion.”

n In division one, Frinton were left kicking themselves after missing the chance to notch an eye-catching victory against leaders Worlington. Having bowled the Suffolk side out for just 198, Frinton subsided to 191.