Mat Pillans stars with the bat as Harrogate CC triumph at Scarborough CC

Mat Pillans hit a rapid half-century to help Harrogate CC to victory on the road at Scarborough. Pictures: Simon Dobson

Harrogate CC climbed to fourth place in Yorkshire Premier League North’s Premier Division courtesy of a fine away victory at Scarborough.

The Roosters have seen two of their opening four league fixtures rained off, but have won both of the other two in fairly comfortable fashion as well as beating Beverley in a Yorkshire Leagues Knock-out Cup tie.

On Saturday, skipper Will Bates lost the toss and his side were put into bat at North Marine Road.

And they looked to be in big trouble when all but one of their top-order failed to fire and they slumped to 90/6.

Arjun Ramkumar was the only one of the Roosters' top-order batsmen to make a significant contribution at North Marine Road.

But a half-century from Arjun Ramkumar (52) kept them in the contest before big-hitting South African allrounder Mat Pillans arrived at the crease and smashed four sixes and three fours in his 61-ball knock of 71 not out.

His efforts meant that Harrogate closed on 231/8 after their 50 overs, a total which would prove beyond Scarborough.

The seasiders made a steady start to their run-chase, but wickets fell at regular intervals, meaning that they didn’t make it any further than 180.

Sri Lankan spinner Ishan Abeysekara snapped up three wickets for ‘Gate, while skipper Bates, Henry Thompson and Jonny Macgregor each bagged a brace.

Paceman Jonny Macgregor picked up a couple of wickets in Saturday's success by the seaside.

Struggling Sessay’s home showdown with Driffield Town was called off, leaving the Thirsk outfit second-from-bottom of the table.

Harrogate 2nds’ third success in four matches this term saw them move up to third place in Yorkshire Premier League North Championship West.

Brad Smith was the pick of their attack, claiming 3-34 as visiting Carlton Towers were restricted to 147/9.