Some hefty hitting by big Carlton Smith inspired Cleveland to victory in this First Division knockout game at Wellington Oval yesterday.

Smith struck an unbeaten 85 to spearhead Cleveland in their fightback after the west enders had posted a respectable 209.

Smith?s fine knock tore the Cuts? bowling apart as he struck seven sixes and five fours while being supported by captain-for-the-day Aaron Adams who delivered 41, Kevin Shiell 30 and Courtney Trott 19 not out.

One Cuts? bowler escaping severe punishment and finishing with creditable analyses was Reggie Tucker who claimed two for 25 off nine overs with two maidens.

Earlier veteran Dexter Basden stroked 66 to help Cuts cross the double century mark. Tucker followed closely on 58 while Bergon Spencer chipped in with 20.

Shakie Darrell was the pick of the Cleveland bowlers taking four for 36 off 7.4 overs while Derek Musson finished with three for 11 off two overs, including a maiden.

After having their Western Counties dreams smashed the day before by the weather, PHC?s fortunes perked up yesterday at Wellington Oval thanks to a nail-biting two wicket win over St. George?s.

An excellent 43 not out by Daniel Caines ? under severe pressure as wickets tumbled around him ? was the difference between the sides, as PHC successfully chased down what appeared at first glance to be a rather straightforward target of 143.

Allan Douglas jr was the topscorer for St. George?s with 42, while Cal Waldron was the best PHC bowler with four for 32 off eight overs.

Thanks in large part to a well-made 75 by Graham Strange, Leg Trappers held their nerve at Devonshire Rec. yesterday to chase a target of 194 with four wickets in hand.

The hosts were dismissed batting first for 194, with Ricardo Brangman jr the topscorer with 65 and Leg Trappers? James Swan claiming figures of five for 32.