PAUL Green rewrote the record books of Burnham Sports Cricket Club by thumping 175 for the club’s second team in their clash with their East Hanningfield and Great Burstead counterparts.

The opening batsman’s score was the highest achieved by any player in the history of the club, beating the 162 that Joel Whittaker made at Herongate in 2008.

Green’s exploits helped his team win by 212 runs and, with rumours that three teams will be promoted from T Rippon Mid-Essex League division nine, means they are in contention to be playing in division eight next summer.

There is no doubt that Green, often a first team player, has faced more menacing bowling attacks than that of East Hanningfield’s but it was still a wonderful effort. He was out in the final over, caught in the deep.

“The pitch was very good and some of the bowling was fairly friendly but I’m not complaining,” Green said.

“I know Joel won’t be happy that I’ve taken his record – perhaps it will inspire him in the future.”

Neil Saunders and Chris Rich, who both got into the 20s, initially kept Green company before he shared in a fruitful third wicket partnership with Jack Shipton, who finished unbeaten on 74.

After tea, Green capped a dream day by taking a catch off the bowling of Joe, his young son.

It was Green Jnr’s first wicket for the club.

Another youngster, Daniel Hand, also showed promise during his four-over stint. The visiting team were eventually all out for 92.

This Saturday, the second team travel to Broomfield but Green will be back in a first team still searching for a first win of the season in the Premier League.

Their latest defeat was by 145 runs away to title-chasing Springfield, although that margin did not do them justice.

After winning the toss and electing to bat, Springfield looked in trouble after stuttering from 92 or one to 175 for seven.

Robin Whittaker (10-2-43-4) hauled Sports back into contention, with the other wickets being shared around.

Springfield recovered to reach 239 for nine, with their last pair shifting momentum by putting on 31 in the last three overs.

Nick Gosling (16) and Jack Silvester gave Sports a lively start – 26 from the first four overs – but then the former was caught behind and the wheels fell off.

Ovel (five for 17) and Brooks (three for 23) thrived, with only Sayeid Ahmed, who made a fluent 23, offering any resistance.

This weekend, Sports entertain High Roding (start 1pm), with Ali Allchin set for a rare appearance. David Bridge, recovered from a dislocated finger, is also expected to figure, while Rob Layzell, out all season with a broken finger, is also available.