Croquet players storm through to national quarter-finals

Shrewsbury Croquet Club pulled off an impressive victory as they knocked Leicester out of the Longman Cup - a prestigious national cup competition, writes Toby Williamson.

Their quarter-final clash of the competition will be against Newport (Essex) at a date in July to be confirmed.

Their East Midland opponents, who had thrashed one of the pre-tournament favourites, Watford, in the previous round, were soundly beaten 6-1. A result which has sent shock waves through the croquet community.

The tricky lawns at Monkmoor Recreation Ground, which were dry and fast after the recent heatwave, proved no barrier to the team of four, who won all three of the very closely contested morning matches, with Shelley Hennell defying the odds to win on the golden hoop.

Max Sanders played the game of his life to come from behind to beat a higher-ranked player in an enthralling encounter.

Tim Bunn and Alberto Porras proved to be a dream combination in the doubles, wearing down their opponents with clever play and some great hoop running.

The afternoon contests were less dramatic, with the wind seemingly having been knocked out of Leicester's sails following the morning demolition job.

All four of the team played superbly throughout the day, staying cool under pressure, using bisques sensibly, and taking their opportunities when they arose.