Wheathampstead Cricket Club

A new era dawned on Sunday 16th with the first Wheathampstead colts match for over a decade staged at Nomansland. The under 9's, under the assured captaincy of Ben Hobden, walked out to appreciative applause from the large crowd gathered for the match against Stevenage. Omens were good with Ben winning the toss and opting to bat. Eliza and Angus strode bravely out to the wicket to face the first overs. After a cautious start both batsmen started to find their feet, in particular a fierce pull shot from Angus bringing up the first four of the morning. Ben and Fabian took the field as the second batting pair and immediately struck up a good understanding with some quick singles against some tight bowling. David and Carlo batted next and held their ground well against the best bowling from Stevenage. However, the innings was looking a bit short of runs and much rested on the final pairing of Devon and James. They did not disappoint. Textbook shots from both players eased the score along, interspersed with some fiery stroke making punishing the bad balls. The innings drew to a close with Wheathampstead on 241- 6, thanks in particular to that excellent last wicket partnership adding over 20 runs.

It was clear that Stevenage had some good players as their first few batsmen played a range of shots testing the field. But Wheathampstead stayed in touch, thanks in particular to some inspired wicket keeping by both Eliza and Fabian. The fielding was magnificent with players holding their positions, backing up, concentrating and supporting one another. Particular plaudits go to Ben and James for spectacular catches from Carlo's bowling, and to David for some brave stops on the square leg boundary. Despite their strength in depth Stevenage struggled to drive home their advantage with Devon's bowling pinning them in their crease, in particular with a beautiful first ball uprooting the batsmens off stump and sending the bails flying. A excellent fiery penultimate over from James brought the first maiden of the day, but Stevenage eased their way to victory with a solid display of sensible stroke making giving them a final score of 284 - 3.

But congratulations to all concerned. The whole team can be immensely proud of themselves. It was fantastic to see such discipline, focus and teamwork in the field. But most importantly whole team played the game in a wonderful spirit, with respect and support to all players. Thank to all for their support - I hope you enjoyed it.

We have a game away at Hitchin on Wednesday evening (see earlier email). There is no match next Sunday, but training at 9.30 as usual.