The journey of tight bends into the Pennine clouds with drizzle and dampness in the air - weather which would leave you in doubt it was a Bank Holiday - gave way to a toss won by captain Luke who chose to bat first and get some runs on the boards.

Stones decided to officially concede the game so they could give all their young cricketers opportunities, and at this level that’s the main thing that matters.

Our pre-match training featured our now regular support trio of U11 & U13s players Dom, Ollie & Brodie whose fielding practice paid off in the game. And, it’s always good to welcome new Villagers to our family and Bodhi, Euan and Boston made their competitive debuts, each contributing with the bat.

Nathan, Bertie, Evie, Luke and Oliver ran well and added important runs against an inexperienced bowling attack that meant the extras column was top scorer of the day. But losing just three wickets in the 16 overs was a huge positive and it meant the net total was 305.

In reply, all 14 Stones’ players were given a chance with the bat - and their commitment was impressive but their inexperience showed. Across the innings, Lightcliffe took 13 wickets, 3 for Euan, 2 each for Luke, Boston and Bodhi and 1 for Nathan. Bertie also took 2 wickets with the ball and took a brilliant catch too, while a run out completed the 13.

Stones ended on a net score of 211 so a clear win for the young Lightcliffe side, much to take and much to build on for the rest of the season.

Thanks to Rob and Dave for running the game and the huge number of parents and grandparents who sacrificed a Bank Holiday Monday lie in to come and support our players.