JAMES Benning was at his imperious best for High Wycombe CC on Saturday when Gerrards Cross felt the full force of his talent.

The former professional batted Wycombe out of a huge hole with typical power and panache and then ripped the heart out of the Cross with five wickets to wrap up a 78-run Wycombe win.

Captain Matthew Eyles said: “He is one of the best club cricketers in the country, there is no doubt about that. He is a confidence player but he is unbelievably talented.

“Other players have moved around and played all over the country but he is playing for the team he grew up with and is a fantastic asset for the club.”

Benning replaced Eyles as captain last season but the team failed to gel and instead of trying to retain their title they spent the summer fighting off relgation.

A change followed, but Benning hasn’t let it affect him.

Eyles said: “He has been fantastic after the disappointment of last year. He was as disappointed as anyone but from day one he’s had a terrific attitude and he was superb on Saturday.”