There was only one winner at the inaugural Battle of the Sabbath - and that was SHCC!
SHCC Gold 5/119 def SHCC Blue 7/116
Our two pioneering Sunday U13s teams met at Lees Park for the inaugural derby: the Battle of the Sabbath. After negotiating a mid morning start time, the Blues went into bat in overcast but steamy conditions.
Tidy early bowling from the Gold was met with ever tidier and disciplined batting from the Blues, who were 0/58 off 15 overs. The run rate was maintained by the Blues for the second half of their batting innings, but patience from the Gold team saw wickets start fall to Ollie C, Byron, Felipe, Alex and Eli. Strong keeping from Robbie and run outs from Alex, Ruben and a sensational direct hit from Marlowe saw the Blues make 8/116. For the Blues, top scorers were Henry (30), James (17*), Charlie P (15) and Charlie G (9)… but the entire team, including Jordan and Josh, should be commended for their excellent batting - seeing out their full 30 overs.
With a target of 117, Gold were put to the test early by the Blues. Felipe made a solid start with 14 - but the defensive work of the Gold opening batters was no match for the outstanding early Blues bowling. Gold very quickly found themselves 3/34, then 5/58 - off amazing bowling by Neil (2 wickets), Charlie P (2 wickets) and Dylan. It was game on! However a patient middle order saw Marlowe (28*), Ollie C (14) and Byron (18*) steady the ship for the Gold, who reached the required target in the 20th over.
It was a tight contest, with excellent sportsmanship and camaraderie from both sides. As one of the coaches noted - there was lots of friendly chat and support between teams, not just within teams, which was really lovely to see. No doubt the return fixture will be eagerly awaited by both sides!