At Copley, there was a 25-run victory on net score by 273 to 248 in the 16-over match.

Winning the toss and choosing to field, the young Villagers restricted Copley to 98 for the loss of 10 wickets (net 248) and George S producing the leading figures of 3-16 from 3, Ollie W and Harry W both bowled superbly with two wickets, while Jonty added another. Jack J and Max also bowled tight overs with Leo contributing well in the field.

In reply, Lightcliffe put together a controlled batting performance. Keeper Henry B top-scored with an unbeaten 21 from 12 balls. There were also further important contributions from George S and Ollie W, who each scored 13. Lightcliffe’s lower wicket count proved crucial, with the side finishing on 103 for 6 and a winning net score of 273.

At Lightcliffe’s Grassroot Sports Funding Ground, the U11 Development side, it was a nail-biting contest with the hosts winning by just one run with the net score of 245 to King Cross’s 244.

Captain Ellie won the toss for the hosts and chose to field first, with Lightcliffe posting 70/5 from their 20 overs with slow but steady positive contributions across the order from Serhii, Dougie, Joey, Rafferty, Hugo and Ben.

In reply, King Cross looked well placed at times but Lightcliffe’s bowlers struck regularly enough to keep the net score within reach. Jacob’s bowling was particularly tight, Joey took a brilliant 3-4 from his two, Ethan took 1 wicket and then Jack C stepped up for the final over which proved crucial – wickets were needed to win, and wickets were taken. Two in fact with just one run conceded – pressure bowling at its finest.

On a night when three U11s also featured for the U15s, it was a clear indication of the strength of Lightcliffe’s squad who will be tough to beat across all leagues across the season.