Fabulous Finale for the U11s

What a stunning end to the Bingham Indoor for Blacklock, Cox, Devenney, Hefter and Rock.

Radcliffe Slytherin were sitting pretty, in second, with games in hand and accustomed to racking up 100+ runs in their 7 overs. Surely just a formality against the Keyworth quintet.

Rock won the toss and took the new ball himself, with Matt from the Plums as specialist fielder. Hefter was immediately in the action with a direct hit on the 2nd ball, the none striker stranded and back in the hutch without playing a shot. On two further occasions in the over Hefter removed the bails from range, this time the batsmen safe but definitely thinking twice. 13-1

Hefter and Blacklock, nursing a back injury, saw Radcliffe cut loose. 41-1 off 3 left 100 very much on the cards.

Cox came on and turned the tide with some excellent flight, with just 3 conceeded. With the fielding and batting both excellent the score was delicately poised at 65-1 with the final over remaining.

Hefter was entrusted with the responsibility and instantly made things happen. Both the opener and number 3 retired both retired on 27, before smart fielding by Blacklock created the second runout of the innings. 73-2.

Hefter and Cox opened up, with the former showing great technique and the latter wielding the willow. 9-0. Steady start. 9 balls of 'Carry on Keyworth' saw near run outs, misfields and edge of your seat running, before Hefter (9) couldn't quite make his ground after a brilliant straight drive. After running a 6, Cox (12) followed shortly after, leaving Devenney and Rock to 'Unleash Hell'.

40 was required off 24 deliveries -a whole repertoire of 4s, 6s, and constant procession of well worked 3s completely demoralised the Radcliffe fielders. Both boys raced to 22.

With 3 required off 12 balls, it was merely a matter of who would reach the 25 mark first. The honour fell to Devenney, with a deft cut that saw Rock scamper through, with 11 balls remaining. Absolutely phenomenal.

What a way to finish, and what tremendous impetus for the new season. Boys you made my day, and I am still smiling now. Brilliant.