Sunday saw Long Ditton U11’s lose in a highly exciting, nerve racking and controversial game when they failed to get the 4 runs required off the final ball of the match against Richmond. Richmond batted first and reached 95 for 4 off their 20 overs. Ben Mettrick and Luke Shaw opened the bowling with good line and length. Ben again impressed with figures of 0 for 14 in his 4 overs. Louis Ackland in his first game for a month showed everyone what the team have missed with a great spell of bowling and bowled two of the Richmond batsman. Tom Sutherland then produced a fine bit of fielding claiming a run out with a direct hit from mid off. The ‘spin twins’ Ninthujan Kumar and Hari Kandiah again bowled well and Hari got the other wicket. Skipper Tommy Boxall captained the side expertly and also produced a great spell of bowling with only 11 runs coming off his 4 overs.
Louis and Cameron Stevens then gave Long Ditton the perfect start putting on 70 runs for the first wicket before Louis was bowled for 17. Both batted very well hitting the bad balls for 4 and running well between the wickets. Cameron then retired not out on 33 when he passed his third score of 30 in four league matches. Richmond then bowled and fielded well and Ditton lost three quick wickets when the batsman selflessly and desperately tried to get the runs that were needed for victory. Needing 4 to win off the last ball proved too many for Ditton and they ended up losing a game they really deserved to win. That said the boys showed high levels of sportsmanship, played as a team and encouraged each other throughout. Many thanks to JP for umpiring, Simon for scoring and all the supporters who braved a freezing cold June morning to support the boys.