Devon Cricket Board - Devon U12's v Berkshire U12's 2014 report

Devon U12's v Berkshire U12's 2014 report

"The Likely Lads"

The longest trip of the season to Blue Coat School at Sonning was eased by the beautiful weather. On arrival there was an interesting discussion with the Berkshire Management about what constituted 21 yards. Having resolved this the toss was made, and lost. Berkshire electing to bat. This was their fourth game, and they were comfortable of their ability.

Sandy Allen, fresh from a Devon League hundred was inspirational during the warm up, and the team took to the field in confident mood. Coach and Manager utilised all their experience and cricketing knowledge to help the team, by setting off on a perambulation of the boundary in a clockwise direction. (Clockwise for wickets, anti clockwise for runs). It worked to perfection.

Ollie Blakeman, revelling in his opening bowler role, took his second "four for" of the season by bowling quick and straight, reducing Berkshire to 22-5. An early trip back down the M4 looked on the cards.

The Berkshire middle order had other ideas, and a partnership of 67 gave Devon food for thought. The second drinks break gave an opportunity to re-group and the team recognised the importance of "squeezing" the opponents for the next 5 overs. This resulted in two stumpings for Freddie Ford and 2 run outs with direct hits from Abraham Kopparambil and Will Oxland. The winter fielding work was paying off. (Boxes ticked!) Berkshire finally out for a below par 107.

The hot weather, and sumptuous tea, seemed to have a soporific effect on the team, as Sam Read was dismissed without scoring and the score meandered along to 27-1 after 14 overs.Having previously spent a lot of time with the players agreeing the need for batting with intent, aggression, positivity or what ever you want to call it, the drinks break message was clear and concise. "Get on with it".

Abraham and James Horler proved they could with 41 in the next 6 overs, effectively breaking the back of the home teams resistance. Both Abraham (20) and James (45) fell before the end, giving Cap'n Jack the opportunity to bat with freedom. He scored 27 not out, at nearly a run a ball to see Devon over the line with 6 overs in hand.

A performance which showed what the side is can do, and what is expected of them. If they keep believing , they will surprise themselves as to what is achieveable.

James Horler impressive knock.

DCB Ltd, University of Exeter Sports Hall, Stocker Road, Exeter, Devon EX4 4QN Company Registration Number: 7024773