For once the weather was kind to us. Ollie Leaning captained the U11’s for the first time and won the toss, electing to field first. He also opened the bowling with Ben Hughes, but it was not until the 7th over that Long Ditton managed to take 2 wickets off Felix Williams’ second over. The first wicket was a run out flicked onto the stumps by Felix W and the second was a catch at mid-off by Freddie. The only other wicket taken in this innings was bowled and caught by Imogen with the first ball of the 19th over. Thames Ditton scored 119 runs for 3 wickets (which included 28 extras) off 20 overs.
Felix and Imogen led the batting charge, defending their wickets well against some strong Thames Ditton bowlers. Felix was caught on 20 runs in the 10th over having notched up a partnership with Imogen of 36. Imogen went on to a good partnership with Freddie and had to retire on 30 not out. Freddie batted solidly, hitting three 4’s and scoring 19 not out, having faced just 19 balls – so a great run rate. On Imogen’s retirement, Leo pushed some nice ones until he was bowled out on 7 in the final over. The Captain, Ollie, stepped up to the crease to face 2 balls, scoring 1 not out. Long Ditton scored 101 (with 24 extras) for 2 wickets off 20 overs.
So whilst it was a loss, it was great to see the U11’s protecting their wickets so well and there was some great fielding by the team including strong wicket keeping from Leo and excellent fielding by Oliver Taylor.