MATCH REPORT - Under 14's - 13 February 2010

It is fair to say that David enjoyed his finest moment with the U14 team.

The boys managed to chase down the opposition score without losing a wicket. Even more impressive was the fact that no batsmen offered any chances (not even a half chance).

Stefan batted with ease and confidence. This was the most complete innings that Stefan has played this year, with shots all around the ground. He is a player who can switch gears very quickly, and without any real risk. A feature of today’s play was that very few balls were hit in the air, and the few that were almost crossed the boundary.

The running between the wickets was the best I have seen from the U14 team this season. The opposition bowlers struggled with the wet conditions. When Stefan retired on 50 the opening partnership was 98. Zoli's innings started the way Stefan’s had ended with aggressive hitting.

All the while Vikram continued to score singles and bat the opposition out of the game. Finally, back-to-back partnerships - something the team has failed to achieve this season. So how good was the opposition? I would rate Strathmore better than other teams that we have lost to, but without a dominant bat or bowler. In fact their best player made a very impressive 42 last week, bowled well and was exceptional in the field. Strathmore could well wonder what had “hit them”. The simple fact is that today was the first time our top three batsmen have batted at 1, 2 and 3 – and they all “fired”, playing the right shots to the right balls – drives, cuts and pulls. Many defensive pushes that were turned into singles with a more proactive mindset (looking to score at every opportunity).

Well done Dave and the team.

Greg.