The Cook’s U13s welcomed Heyford U13s to Compton Park just as a thunderstorm began to roll around the ground. The lightning and rain followed but soon passed sufficiently to allow play to begin. Alex Bushell replaced his brother James in the starting lineup and skipper Alfie won the toss again and invited Heyford to bat.
Opening bowlers Keelan Hone and Jake Morrissey restricted to 10-1 from the first 4 overs with controlled bowling, with Liam running out the unfortunate opener with a direct hit.
Skipper Alfie rotated the bowlers which didn’t allow the batsmen to settle and with strong fielding and backing up, runs were hard to come by. Mackenzie Eldershaw then struck twice to remove the next two batsmen with good catches by Alex at mid-off and Keelan in the gully.
Unfortunately, the next band of rain struck and the players went off for 15 minutes as Umpires and Coaches discussed the chances of further play. After agreeing to reduce the game to 16 overs per side and the rain abating, the players took to the slippery field but only managed one more over before further rain took a grip and the match was abandoned.
It was a pity as the team was really playing well and sensed a good opportunity to record a win. All of the lads deserved credit for the way they applied themselves in tricky conditions, the bowlers working hard and being backed up by good fielding.
Special mention to Spencer Smith who kept wicket very well. In only his third game behind the stumps he really concentrated on his technique and improved substantially from the previous week.
I’m beginning to sense the lads are becoming a proper team, with them all supporting each other, which is great to see.
Thanks to Charlie for umpiring and Ben for scoring. There is no game next week due to the Bank Holiday.