The inaugural match for the fledging Northleach Town junior side was held on Sunday, against Newbold-on-Avon, champions of the Warwickshire Junior League. The home side consisted of ages from 13 to 16, but a thorough practice session on the Friday evening saw them come together as a team, ready for this 20-over match – thanks to Chairman, Richard Blundell, for his efforts and management of the team.

Captain Harry Whitworth won the toss and elected to bat first on a fine sunny morning, and the top order batsmen scored at a good rate, with several fine strokes producing boundaries on the fast outfield – especially a straight six from James Binns, taken out of the Freddie Flintoff book of batting!

Although wickets fell regularly, the home innings never faltered, and Richard Hall played particularly well for his unbeaten 30, playing the ball to all parts of the ground. His leadership of the lower order saw the home boys reach a total of 128 for 7 from their 20 overs.

The visitors reply never really got going as tight bowling, backed up by some impressive fielding, restricted the scoring opportunities. James Binns and Daniel Binding were frugal during their spells, and Harry Whitworth showed the value of his extra pace at this age group. He regularly beat the bat and was unlucky not to take more than the one wicket, a fine caught behind by Dan Hilder.

The Newbold score was greatly helped by a fine knock of 56 by Dan Trehnarne, and the change bowling suffered as he built his score. Jack Stevens and Elliott Binns were unlucky that catches did not go to hand, but each claimed a wicket, as the home side closed the game down.

With Steve Larner and John Drinkwater bowling a tight line and length in the final few overs, the victory was secured for the home side, with the visitors’ innings ending on 113 for 5.

All of the Northleach boys played their part in this fine match, enjoyed by a sizeable crowd and supported by sponsors Moore Allen.