Reed have set up a National Village Cup tie with last year’s Herts and Beds champions, Wheathampstead, after storming to victory over Elstow.

Jack Tidey was the star of the show, taking four wickets as Reed obliterated Elstow’s batting line-up before the Heslam brothers, captain James and William, eased them into the third round.

Facing a team they knew little about, the skipper elected to bowl first, giving Tidey and Kallum Ward the first chance to attack Elstow’s openers.

The decision was a brilliant one as Tidey picked up an early wicket, dismissing Dan Wisson in the sixth over thanks to an athletic catch by Karl Ward, while, at the other end, Ward produced a ball that was too good for Phil Johnson (10).

Elstow’s innings went from bad to worse when Tidey snared Gurraj Galsin for a 13-ball duck. Not to be outdone, Ward (2-11) picked up another wicket, Tom Greaves catching out Tom Wisson.

Shaz Ahmed (7) tried to lead a revival for his side with some extravagant shots but his efforts soon came to an abrupt halt as Tidey picked up his third wicket.

At 26-5, Elstow captain Matt Stevens strode to the crease with purpose and looked to provide some support for Callan Gill (13*) but he too fell, bowled for one by talisman Tidey, who ended with figures of 4-11.

Tidey was taken out of the attack and Mitchell Cooper (1-12) filled in admirably, dismissing Stuart Robson (6).

Spinner and Village Cup final hero from Reed’s 2012 triumph at Lords, Greaves came into the attack and did not take long to get in on the action as he bowled Ravi Kaylan (1) and removed Syed Ali with the very next deliver for a golden duck.

With the number 11 on strike and the field surrounding the bat, Greaves (3-3) sent down the hat-trick ball but was thwarted in his attempts by the youthful Ravi Gaslin.

However, Greaves soon got the final wicket and wrapped up the Elstow innings for 60.

With 61 required to progress, Reed focussed on ensuring victory in a professional and efficient manner.

The Heslam brother produced the right mix of good running, clean hitting and aggression to see Reed past the target with 10 wickets still intact.

James finished the innings unbeaten on 37 from 41 balls, including seven fours, while William made 20 in 13 overs.

Reed’s round three match against Wheathampstead is on May 25 at The Green.

This Sunday sees Reed in T20 action at The Green as they face Hoddesdon and Bishop’s Stortford. Play starts at 11.30am.