Topsham St James CC 1st XI celebrated a crucial 50-run victory against North Devon 2nd XI, boosting their chances of D Division East survival.

The match unfolded at the University of Exeter ground, with the 'Saints' making a solid comeback after an early setback.

Initially, the team lost Declan Wardell at the onset of the game.

However, stellar batting performances from Josh Smalley and Dan Croxall steadied the course.

The team achieved a tally of 222 off their 45 overs, credited to Ross Treleaven's knock of 88 not out.

Contributions from Howard Smalley (27), Dan Croxall (23), Deon Kemp (18), and Adam Cooper (16) also played a critical role.

North Devon looked comfortable at 123 for 2, edging closer to Topsham's total.

However, Topsham's Wardell stepped up, eliminating Josh Arthur for 40 and Richard Clarke for 35 shortly after.

With North Devon at 153 for 6 and trailing by 70 runs, the game took a dramatic turn.

In his second stint, Ross Treleaven scored two wickets, while Mustavi Emdad again displayed exemplary bowling skills, helping top off North Devon for 172 runs.

Emdad managed five wickets in the match, his second such achievement in the last three games.

The victory inches the Saints closer to escaping the relegation zone, setting them on a thrilling trajectory for the last three games.

The first of these is a 'must-win' against Ottery St Mary 2nd XI, scheduled for the upcoming weekend.