There were two games giving opportunities to as many of the U9s from both clubs as possible and, just as they were when we hosted the same at our home a few weeks ago, they were hotly contested but played in the best of spirits.

The wicket takers for Lightcliffe were Jenson (a brilliant 4-6), Nathan (1-23), George G (1-14), Luke (1-10), Harry (1-9), Bodhi (1-7) and Ted (1-7), while Evie, George H and Bertie bowled tight overs.

Evie was also brilliant with the bat, making 16. George H made 13, George G 8 and Arthur 6.

And Reuben made his debut for the U9s and with a really solid performance making 7 with the bat, not losing his wicket and going for just 8 from his 2 overs.

The fielding was also much improved with good talking, patience and understanding, plus encouragement all round - of teammates and opponents.

In one game Lightcliffe lost, in the other Lightcliffe won. But to be able to give so many young people the opportunity to play and enjoy their cricket was, as ever, the real positive.

Thanks to Rob for making it all happen, our coaching and umpiring team of Dave, Paul and Nick and our ever present assistant coaches U13 Ollie and U11 Dom. Plus, of course, the countless parents, siblings, grandparents and so many more on the boundary rope cheering everyone on.