Worcestershire U18s travelled to Northwich to face Cheshire 2nd XI, in an eagerly anticipated clash that provided the youngsters with an opportunity to face off against a Cheshire side made up of 19-23 year olds, with significantly more experience playing Senior Mens Cricket.
Winning the toss and electing to bat first, bat both Fin Goodman (40) and Alfie Higgins (40) supported Louis Hursthouse in excellent fashion with aggressive running between the wickets.
Hursthouse, was eventually dismissed for a sparkling 120 from 115 deliveries, anchoring his sides innings until he was removed in the 38th over.
With Hurthouse and Goodman removed in the same over, the innings stalled slightly as Worcestershire were at risk of falling slightly below par.
A final five over onslaught from Henry Hawes saw his side propelled to an imposing total of 326/7, with Hawes finishing 74 not out off just 38 deliveries.
Defending their total, the young outfit did a lot well in the first 25 overs without forcing too many break throughs, as Cheshire managed their way to 125-3.
Lucian Brockman continued his fine form and finished with 4/55 off his 10 overs, as Worcestershire continued to take wickets in the second half of the innings, Tom Odell’s outstanding display with his left arm spin returned him figures of 2/40 off 10 overs.
With things looking to be heading towards a tight finish, Worcestershire eventually usurped Cheshire, bowling the opposition out in the last over for 284, securing victory by 42 runs.
Head Coach, Elliot Wilson, was impressed with his side’s performance against an experienced outfit.
“Coming up against a side with plenty of senior cricket experience, our lads showed real maturity in the way we set the target with the bat, and how we also pulled things back with the ball after they got off to a solid start.
“Lucian and Louis continued their fine form, but this match was won by a collective, team effort.
“Northwich was an outstanding venue for this level cricket providing a fantastic arena for academy cricket.”
MATCH SCORECARD
