2016 Juniors
Under 9’s 2016
Final League Position Group A = 2nd, 4 Points
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Farsley v Pudsey Congs
at Red Lane
July 22nd, 2016
Match Report by Tom Brook
Farsley 239-5
PCCC 290-2
The following Friday, the Congs travelled up to Farsley for the return fixture. With both teams in good spirits, and more good weather forecast (for a refreshing change), Ben captained the same team as the week before. Ben’s first act as captain was to win the toss and he decided to bowl first.
Ben led from the front as captain, bowling tight lines and lengths, not conceding a single run from his two overs. He was ably supported by Artie at the other end. He picked up where he left off the week before, ensuring that Farsley could not get out of the blocks quickly.
Malachy bowled fantastically well in the second pair, taking two wickets. He was supported by Maddison at the other end, who bowled well without reward, with a couple of bowls bouncing narrowly over the stumps – a coat of varnish away from a couple of well-deserved wickets.
In the third pair, Farsley were able to cut free, hitting a few great fours to the short boundaries. Here, Lily Fae and Rayaan were a little unlucky as, even though there was some very good batting on display, a number of balls were hit to leg from middle stump. On another day, they could have had 3-4 wickets.
In the final pair, Jack and Lauren managed to limit the total, bowling good, tight lines. This meant that Farsley finished on a competitive 239-5.
Ben Eckard 2-2-0-1, Artie Holdsworth 2-1-2-1, Malachy Bray 2-0-8-2
This certainly wasn’t the best bowling performance from the Congs, but they were also a touch unlucky, with some short boundaries also helping the Farsley cause. However, it must be said that the fielding on display was excellent. Rayaan, Ben and Maddison (who also chipped in with a runout), made some excellent stops to save boundaries, and Jack took an excellent catch diving forward as wicket keeper.
Some powerful hitting was on display from Farsley, and it was great to see all eight players fully committed to catching and stopping the ball to save boundaries. We’ve certainly come a long way from those indoor sessions of being scared of the ball. Well done to all, it’s testament to how hard you’ve worked since February.
In the half time team talk, Tom reiterated how important it was to bat as well as last time, and the Congs boys and girls were confident that, if they batted as well as last week, they’d be able to chase down Farsley’s competitive total.
Ben led from the front once more, finding the boundary with regularity to take the pressure off the rest of the team. From here, Lily Fae and Maddison held their wicket well, slowly accumulating runs in the middle overs.
In the third pair, Jack hit some lusty blows to the short boundaries to advance the Congs score and completely take the pressure off the final pair. By the time Lauren and Artie took to the crease, the game was won, but they put the icing on the cake, hitting a few boundaries and running between the wickets well against some good bowling. The Congs finished on 290-2, meaning they won by 51 runs.
Ben Eckard 25* and Jack Falarty 19*
This was another great game of cricket played in a fantastic spirit. Well done to all, and let’s keep the winning run going to give us hope of reaching the knock out stages.
Pudsey Congs v Farsley
at Strikes CS Britannia Ground
July 15th, 2016
Match Report by Tom Brook
PCCC 285-0
Farsley 209-11
For the first home game of the season, Congs welcomed Farsley down to the Strikes CS Britannia Ground. Malachy captained the Congs once more and, with the Farsley captain calling correctly, the Congs were to bat first on what was a lovely summer’s evening.
Malachy and Ben set us off at a flying pace, finding the boundary with ease on a regular basis. The running between the wickets from the pair was also strong and it was clear that they’ve built up a good understanding. After pushing the fielders back with early boundaries, they picked up singles well and really pushed the fielders hard.
Maddison and Lily Fae then picked up where the openers left off, keeping their wicket against some difficult bowling. Because of this strong start with the first two pairs, Jack and Rayaan were able to express themselves with some great hitting, before Lauren and Artie added some late singles to end the Congs innings, with the team finishing 285-0.
This was a fantastic batting display by all 8 players. At this age, it really is a fantastic achievement to go a full innings without losing a single wicket. But this wasn’t just a rear-guard action, as there were some great shots played, too.
Malachy Bray 9* and Ben Eckard 13*
Understandably, the half time team talk was incredibly positive, with Tom and Joe reaffirming the great effort. However, they were keen to stress the importance of bowling and fielding well to back up such a great performance with the bat.
In truth, thanks to some fantastic bowling and great fielding, the Congs total never really looked in threat against what was a young and inexperienced Farsley team.
All of the Congs team bowled and fielded superbly, with a couple of great catches and run outs. Wickets were shared around evenly between the team, with Jack claiming one, Lily Fae claiming two and Rayaan claiming two. A special mention must also go to Artie who opened the innings with a double wicket maiden!
However, the standout display came from superstar bowler Lauren Hill. After bowling a wicket maiden and a maiden in the previous match, she took four wickets in her two overs.
Thanks to regular wickets, Farsley finished on 209-11, meaning that the Congs won by 76 runs.
Artie Holdsworth 2-1-1-2 and Lauren Hill 2-0-6-4
This was a fantastic game with 16 players thoroughly enjoying the game. It was also great to see a contribution from all eight Congs players, with everyone contributing through runs or wickets. This was our first win of the season, and it was great to see all the hard work on Fridays paying off. Well done to all.
Pudsey St Lawrence v Pudsey Congs
at Tofts Rd
Wed June 8th, 2016
Match Report by Joe Royce and Tom Brook
On a warm Wednesday evening, the Pudsey Congs under 9s team made their way up the road to local rivals Pudsey St Lawrence for the opening game of the season. Both sides fielded young teams featuring a number of debutants and, for the first time, the Congs team also featured three girls, which was great to see. With a large crowd of proud parents, expectations were high.
New Pudsey Congs captain Malachy lost the toss, and Pudsey St Lawrence elected to bowl first.
In the pre-match team talk, Joe and Tom stressed the importance of enjoying the game and, based on the beaming smiles that greeted the two coaches, this didn’t look like it would be much of a problem!
Captain Malachy and opening partner Lily Fae started the Congs innings well, keeping things tight while Malachy also hit an impressive four. This set the tone for the rest of the innings and, although the Congs struggled to find the boundary regularly, the running between the wickets was impressive and kept the Congs total ticking over.
Sadly, some deadeye St Lawrence bowling meant that they also took wickets regularly, limiting the Congs scoring. However, some late hitting from Artie meant that the Congs could post a competitive 224-8.
Malachy Bray 10, Artie Holdsworth 8
Overall, the Congs were happy with their score at the break, particularly considering the quality of the Pudsey St Lawrence bowlers. The only goal for next time will be to lose less wickets, but the Congs were also proud that nobody lost any ‘silly’ wickets. Nobody was run out, and there were no catches to unnecessary shots. At the half way stage, we knew we’d have to bowl and field well to win…
When the Congs took to the field, it was clear that all the hard work put in during practice was paying off. Some excellent bowling meant that the Congs were also able to pick up wickets regularly. These were shared between the bowlers, with Maddison, Artie, Jack, Ben and Malachy all taking wickets.
There were also two stand out performances in the field. Firstly, Ben Eckard with one of the finest pieces of fielding you’ll see at any level. When the St Lawrence batters went for a quick single, Ben managed to run in, pick the ball up one handed and, with only one stump to aim at, hit the stump to send the bails flying! Cries of “I can’t believe I hit it” could be heard for at least 15 minutes after the game.
Secondly, on debut, Lauren bowled a maiden and a wicket maiden in her two overs, giving her final figures of two overs, two maidens, zero runs, one wicket. Outstanding! All 12 balls would have probably hit the stumps, too. That’s accuracy Glenn McGrath would be proud of.
Sadly, by the time that Madison took a wicket with the last ball of the game, the Congs were too far behind. Pudsey St Lawrence finished on 242-6, meaning the Congs lost by 18 runs.
Lauren Hill 2-2-0-1, Artie Holdsworth 2-1-1-1
All in all, this was a fantastic game played in an even better spirit by both teams. All 16 players played with a smile on their faces throughout and a great time was had by all. Considering the age of the Congs team, and the fact that six players were on debut, this was also an invaluable learning experience.
With some stand out performances in the field and with the ball, the young Congs team were only a wicket or two away from completely changing the game.
Tom and Joe are both incredibly proud of the team and everyone should hold their heads high. It was great to hear both children and parents alike say how much they enjoyed the game and how desperate they were to play again. Enjoyment of the game is everything that cricket’s about at this level. Hopefully, if we keep learning and improving we can beat them next time, too.
Well done to all involved, you did yourselves and the club proud.
Under 11’s 2016
Final League Position Central Division = 2nd, 24 Points
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Pudsey Congs v Pudsey St Lawrence “B”
At Strikes CS Britannia Ground
Sunday June 12th, 2016
Match Report by Liam Stanhope
PSL ‘B’ came down the hill on a wet, miserable morning at the Britannia. Thanks must go the Messr’s Hirst and Middlebrook for all their help hogging and removing covers to get the ground match fit.
St Lawrence batted first and were under the cosh when Flinn Woodward-Chapman demolished Josh Wray off stump in the second over. The innings was soon back on track as the middle pairs played positive cricket, running well between the wickets. Evin Bollon hit the ball hard to score 21 and was well supported by Gabe Wadsworth 14. IsHaaq Nazir twice struck back for Congs. First, clean bowling Charlie Watson then with a smart bit of fielding at backward point claiming a direct hit. Congs finished strongly in the final overs as Niall Brook grabbed himself a wicket and Flinn and Anthony Edwards bowling tightly at the other end. PSL ‘B’ 276-4.
Flinn Woodward Chapman 3-0-5-1, Niall Brook 3-0-8-1
The message at half time was 20 runs a pair and victory was ours! Kirk Eckard and Niall got the Congs off to a sound start paying some straight drives and nudging singles. 223-0 after 5. Daltrey Hullah and Paddy Arnold continued to tick the score along with Daltrey pulling a couple of fours to put Congs well on the way at the half way mark. IsHaaq Nazir played solidly whilst Anthony Edwards played well into the leg side to score eleven. 14 to win off the final 5 overs. Down to Sam Lassey and Captain Flinn Woodward-Chapman to become heroes! Both hit the ball powerful as well as running confidently. In the end Congs run out comfortable winners by 24 runs.
Congs 301-0.
Flinn Woodward-Chapman – 18, Sam Lassey – 14, Anthony Edwards- 11
At last a win against our neighbours in six attempts this year in all age groups and teams!!!! A complete performance by the young Congs and the first time I can remember an u11’s side not losing a wicket!
Pudsey Congs v Farsley
At Strikes CS Britannia Ground
Sunday May 29th, 2016
Match Report by Liam Stanhope
Congs welcomed local rivals Farsley to Strikes CS Britannia Ground and hoped to come out on top and go two from two at home this season.
Winning the toss and batting first Sabir Mahmood and Niall Brook played patiently in the opening overs against some tight bowling from Lauren and Ryan Thorpe. This was a trend that continued as the Congs went through their innings with the loss of only 1 wicket. Every batter played with a straight bat and the score crept up with some well played boundaries from Anthony Edwards and some loose bowling from Farsley. Sam Lassey (17) and Flinn Woodward-Chapman (13) could then chance their arms as the boundaries began to flow.
Congs 272-1
Sam Lassey – 17, Flinn Wooward-Chapman – 13
The second over of the innings put Congs well and truly in control as Flinn Wooward-Chapman picked up 2 wickets in as many balls. The first clean bowled and the second brilliantly caught at cover by Sabir Mahmood. From then on, Farsley could not gain any momentum as wickets fell at regular intervals. Joseph Puliekis bowled well to pick up three wickets in the middle. Before Farsley’s innings closed on 223-10.
Joseph Puleikis 2-0-4-3, Flinn Woodward-Chapman 3-0-9-3, Niall Brook 2-1-3-1
What a performance! Excellent with the bat, superb with the ball and fantastic in the field. Brilliant catching from Sabir, Niall and Joe. Special mention to 7 year old Jack Flaherty who played his heart out and did not look out of his depth despite his tender years.
Well played all!
Pudsey St Lawrence “A’ v Pudsey Congs
At Tofts Rd
Sunday May 22nd, 2016
Match Report by Liam Stanhope
Clubman of the year Chris Doey took the Congs up the road to visit our neighbours in the first of many local derbies to come this season.
Congs batted first and were immediately up against it following some tight bowling from Joshua Allinson. Zak Stolarski eventually got going and struck three powerful 4’s in his 12. Sam Lassey continued where Zak left off blasting four 4’s on his way to 17. PSL turned the screw in the middle overs as the scoring slowed until Libby Middleton smashed 20 in the final pair to see Congs finish on 267-4.
Libby Middleton – 20, Sam Lassey 17, Zak Stolarksi – 12
Pudsey’s defence of their total couldn’t have got off to a better start with as Anthony Edwards picked up the wicket of Edward Denton first up. The score continued to ebb and flow until Joshua Allinson played superbly for an unbeaten 28 in the third pairing. This set up for what could be an excellent finish. 255-5 with five overs to go. The Congs however, could not get a break through. Ricky Priestley and Charlie Greaves bashed the ball to all parts in a partnership of 51 to give PSL the bragging rights.
PSL 306-5
Paddy Arnold 3-0-9-1
Despite losing out by 51 runs, the young Congs put a brilliant performance and take away the runs from two fantastic Lord Taverner’s players, the scores would be tied. A great bowling and batting performance against one of the strongest sides in the league.
Pudsey Congs v Thackley
At Strikes CS Britannia Ground
Sunday May 15th, 2016
Match Report by Liam Stanhope
Pudsey Congs first home game of the season saw Thackley visit the Strikes CS Britannia Ground with the Congs searching for a first win of the year.
Thackley won the toss and opted to bat first. The openers began in steady fashion playing patiently and risk free against the accurate bowling of Anthony Edwards and Zak Stolarksi. The introduction of Niall Brook and Ishaaq Nazir (a wicket apiece) got Congs on the board followed by a fantastic pick up and throw by Sabir Mahmood to leave the Thackley second pair stranded and run out. Thackley fought back with a well played 14 from Ned McCormack, before his brother Flinn (10) and Jack Bedford (15) added 25 from the final four overs.
Thackley 256-4
Niall Brook 2-2-0-1, IsHaaq Nazir 2-2-0-1
The Congs reply was boosted by the return of Sabir Mahmood at the top of the order who made a classy 13. Solid performances in the middle overs meant that Congs were continually chipping away at their target. Kirk Eckard played well off his legs to score 10. Congs still required 15 from the final four overs for victory and Flinn Woodward-Chapman continued his current run of form to make 10 and see the team home along with the help of Sam Lassey and some loose bowling.
Pudsey Congs 258-5.
Sabir Mahmood – 13, Kirk Eckard – 10, Flinn Woodward Chapman – 10
Points on the board following a great win, but still things to work on. Fantastic performance well done!!
Woodlands “B” v Pudsey Congs
At Albert Terrace
Sunday May 8th, 2016
Match Report by Liam Stanhope
Following a free date first up, Congs got their 2016 campaign underway with an away trip to Woodlands ‘B’.
Batting first, Woodlands made watchful progress against the Congs opening bowlers. With Anthony Edwards and Zak Stolarski bowling fast and straight, the scoring was kept to a minimum. Captain Flinn Woodward-Chapman produced a devastating direct hit to leave Joel Beaumont yards out of crease when trying to steal a quick single. Paddy Arnold then struck immediately in the 6th over by clean bowling Matthew Elam. Flinn Woodward-Chapman was once again showing his fielding prowess taking a skyer off the bowling of Daltrey Hullah. Woodlands closing their innings 247-3
Daltrey Hullah 2-0-7-1, Paddy Arnold 2-0-8-1
Niall Brook regained his spot at the top of the congs batting line-up, partnered by Is’Haaq Nazir. Both played confidently and straight to see off the accurate bowling of the Woodlands opening duo. Woodlands bowled well in the middle overs picking up valuable wickets as Zak Stolarksi looked to push the Congs total along striking two over pitched balls to the leg-side boundary. 218-6 with 4 overs remaining. A captains knock was needed, and Flinn Woodward-Chapman took the Congs within touching distance of victory. Whilst being ably supported by Sam Lassey, the skipper blasted the ball to all corners of the Albert Terrace ground for a well crafted 23. However, following a run out from the final ball, Congs the fell 7 short finishing 240-8
Flinn Woodward-Chapman 23
A promising start for a side from which 7 out of 8 players were still playing u9’s cricket last year. Valuing your wicket is a lesson to be learnt from the season opener, but lots of positives to take forward into the rest of the season.
U13’s 2016
Final League Position Demaine Division = 1st, 38 Points
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Thornbury v Pudsey Congs
Away
Thursday July 14th, 2016
Match Report by Neil Humpleby
Following Mondays Cup effort, we were in League action at Thornbury.
Although our league matches have been pretty easy, I don’t think I have ever seen a game so unevenly matched as this would be. Thornbury won the toss & elected to bat first. Wickets fell from the off with the innings not really getting started as we bowled out our hosts for a very poor 40 (16 of which were extras!).
A hasty shake up of the batting order saw Jay & Ben open the batting. Ben miss timing a pull shot was the only wicket to fall in the chase as Jay raced to 26 not out assisted by Dom, we reached the total in only 9.2 overs meaning an early finish & back to Congs for a drink by 8.10pm!
Happy days……
Pudsey Congs v Northowram Field
Cup Quarter Final
At the Strikes CS Britannia Ground
Monday July 11th, 2016
Match Report by Neil Humpleby
This cup Quarter Final fixture promised a sterner test for the team as our visitors were also unbeaten in the League.
Harry won the toss for us and elected to bat first. He & opening partner KK got us off to the start we needed scoring at 5 an over until Harry retired on 30. We then struggled in the middle as scoring proved difficult before the rate rose again in the latter overs allowing us to post a score of 102 for 7 off 20 overs, a score which we felt was around 10-15 runs light.
The Northowram batsmen kept up to the rate as the game swung in their favour & then back to us as we took key wickets. It turned out in the end that dropped catches & misfields would cost us the tie as the visitors overtook the Congs total on the first ball of the final over.
Although a very disappointing result, it was good to see the lads stuck to the task through to the end in what was the hardest match the majority had ever been involved in.
Undercliffe v Pudsey Congs
Away
Thursday July 7th, 2016
Match Report by Neil Humpleby
A dry blustery evening at Undercliffe for this weeks league encounter. Winning the toss & electing to bat first against a weak Undercliffe side, a big score was always on the cards.
What followed surpassed everyones expectations as we amassed a mighty 194 for 0 off 20 overs, with KK, Harry, Jay & Zain all retiring before a quick fire 11 not out for birthday boy Liam whilst the rest of the total was made up with 54 extras!!!
The Undercliffe opener Hamza Butt was the only batsmen to offer any resistance to the accuracy of the Congs bowling attack, retiring on 30. It was down to the spinners & the slower pace of Dom to take the wickets as Mueen finished with figures of 3-1-6-2, Lewis 2.4-1-10-3 & Dom 2-0-11-1, with run outs accounting for the rest, the Undercliffe innings closed on 66 all out.
Pudsey Congs v Woodlands “B”
At the Strikes CS Britannia Ground
Thursday June 30th, 2016
Match Report by Neil Humpleby
After a two week lay off it was back to league action for the guys against Woodlands “B” at the Brit on a cloudy evening, with the forecast indicating we would be lucky to complete the game.
Libby won the toss & elected to field first, with Harry & Zain spearheading the Congs bowling attack. Both bowled with pace & accuracy but it was Zain who made the breakthrough taking a wicket in each of his two overs. The rest of the side all got two overs each, and it was satisfying as Manager to see the standards set were kept up throughout the innings. With wickets falling at regular intervals, the visitors were restricted to a total of 56 for 8 from 20 overs.
Zain 2-0-1-2, Dom 2-0-9-2, Flynn 2-0-2-1, Jay 2-0-4-1, Cameron 2-0-1-1, Mueen 2-0-3-1 & Chris 2-0-12-1
With rain in the air the only question was if we could reach the target before the heavens opened. Harry and Jay got us off to a good start, with Harry retiring with a quickfire 31 taking the game away from the Woodlands side. Once Harry had retired there were some poor shot selection from the batsmen gifting the opposition some easy wickets before Flynn came in at 7. With the bowler on a hat trick, Flynn blocked the first 2 balls he faced before cutting the final delivery of the 11th over past point to score the winning run and secure the deserved victory just as the heavy rain started.
Another competent performance from the guys kept the unbeaten league run going & with 4 games left we are in a strong position, well done all.
Harry 31 Retired (not out)
Pudsey St Lawrence v Pudsey Congs
At Tofts Rd
Thursday June 9th, 2016
Match Report by Neil Humpleby
Back in league action, away to the old foe at Tofts Road on a humid, overcast evening.
Captain Libby won the toss & elected to bat first.
With a very young bowling attack the openers Josh & Jay were soon into their stride crashing the ball to all parts with some quality shots & some shots consisting of shear brute force, all with the same result. Josh was first to retire again & no.3 Ben fell first ball to a sharp caught behind chance. Jay once again batted sensibly with Zain before retiring for the second time this season. Lewis Joined Zain in the middle, both chipping away keeping the scoreboard ticking before a bit of confusion with the calling resulted in Lewis being run out for 20. Next up Harry coming in at 6 set about the bowlers scoring 5 fours as part of his quick fire 31 before retiring. Zain fell just short of retiring on 24 caught out in the last of the allotted 20 overs with a total of 147 on the board.
Josh 30 n/o (retired), Jay 33 n/o (retired), Harry 31 n/o (retired), Zain 24, Lewis 20.
The team had their tales up after such a clinical batting display, as we took to the field to defend our total. Josh opened the bowling with too much pace for the young PSL batsmen taking two wickets in the opening over. From this point, there was only ever going to be one winner as all the Congs bowlers played their part taking wickets almost at will whilst keeping the run rate down. A fine innings from our hosts no.6 batsman Calum Jackson retiring on 32 scoring nearly half of the teams runs as they finished 67 all out, the last wicket a run out of the final ball.
Mueen 2-1-2-2, Zain 2-2-0-1, Ben 2-2-0-1, Libby 2-0-10-1, Jay 2-1-1-0, Dom 2-1-1-0
Pudsey Congs v Undercliffe
U13 David Bairstow Cup Preliminary Round
At the Strikes CS Britannia Ground
Monday June 6th, 2016
Match Report by Neil Humpleby
A warm evening with bright sunshine for this rearranged preliminary round of the U13 David Bairstow Cup.
Captain for the match, Jay lost the toss so the Undercliffe captain elected to bat first on a green wicket.
The Congs opening bowlers kept the run rate down & wickets falling restricting the visitors to 15 for 3 off the first four overs. With the bowling changes the pressure eased, allowing the batsmen to play with a little more freedom, until number 5 batsmen Ashrafs luck ran out as he was dismissed for 13 closely followed by Hamzah Butt who carried the innings until retiring on 32 not out. Wickets then began to fall at regular intervals as the innings faltered, closing on 69 all out from 19.3 overs, the final wicket falling to the bowling of Cameron, giving him his first victim in U13 cricket.
Josh 3-0-5-1, Zain 3-0-11-2, Dom 1-0-2-2, Cameron 1.3-0-1-1
With not much of a run chase, openers Josh & Jay were in no mood to hang around scoring 45 from the first 6 overs before Josh retired on 32 not out. Ben added a quick 6 before playing across the line to a straight one, losing his middle stump. All the while Jay had being going about his business in a mature fashion & deservedly hit the winning runs with a four through square leg to complete the run chase in only 9 overs.
Josh 32 n/o (retired) & Jay 24 n/o
Congs now receive a bye in the first round and will host the winner of the Lightcliffe v Northowram Fields in the second round on Monday July 11th
Pudsey Congs v Farsley
At the Strikes CS Britannia Ground
Thursday June 2nd, 2016
Match Report by Neil Humpleby
After three postponed games we were back in league action at the Britannia Ground tonight playing host to Farsley.
Skipper Libby won the toss & elected to bat first on a clear but cool evening. With key players missing due to holidays, it was Jay who opened the batting with Josh, the aim to get us off to a solid start but Farsley opening bowler Barker bowled Josh with a cheeky away swinging ball with only 19 on the board. Harry came & went, deceived by the spin of Ryan Thorpe with only 2 runs added. Chris joined Jay in the middle to re-build the innings. With Jay playing a very mature innings punishing the bad ball & Chris following in his wake, it was obvious a big score was on the cards. Jay was the first of the partnership to retire on 33, smashing a boundary to pass the 30 run mark. Once Chris’s new partner Dom had settled into his innings, the runs came at a good rate with Chris reaching 30 to retire whilst Dom finished 2 runs short on 28 before the innings closed on 128 for 2.
With a big score on the board to defend the result was probably never in much doubt, but with the Farsley score on 21 after 3 overs, the guys looked worried……….
The bowlers came to the rescue. After Libby had taken the first wicket, the resistance started to fade and with 4 quick wickets we were in an excellent position reducing Farsley to 40 for 5 from 10 overs. When U13 debutant Anthony took the final wicket in the 17th over, Farsley had amassed a total of 67 all out giving the lads another satisfying league win.
Once again a comfortable win, but the guys will face tougher opposition next Thursday away to PSL and with the rearranged cup game on Monday, we have a busy week in prospect (Weather permitting!!!!)
Pudsey Congs v Undercliffe
At the Strikes CS Britannia Ground
Thursday May 12th, 2016
Match Report by Neil Humpleby
First home game of the season this week playing host to a young Undercliffe side on a dry blustery evening.
With the weather set fair, Captain for the evening Lewis won the toss and elected to field first. The first over can only be described as poor from a bowling perspective with 15 runs on the board yet only one scored off the bat! From this over onwards however the bowling was accurate from all bowlers with KK leading from the front. Once the Undercliffe opener retired, the wickets fell quite easily with only 3 of the other batsmen making contributions to the final score of 66 all out from 14.3 overs.
Jay 1.3-1-0-3, Libby 3-0-7-2, Dominic 3-0-17-2, Lewis 3-1-0-1, KK 3-1-2-0.
In response, the Congs openers set about the run chase like they had to be somewhere else! Scoring at a rate of around 8 runs per over, Josh having the lions share before retiring & then KK took centre stage to keep us moving towards our target. Ben played a sensible short innings giving KK the strike to overcome the required total in only 8.3 overs.
Josh 31 Retired, KK 21 not out, Ben 3 not out.
Another emphatic victory from the team. The lads who didn’t get to bowl or bat need to stay focused & be patient as there will be stiffer challenges ahead & I`m confident that they will perform as & when necessary with either bat or ball.
Another home league tie this Thursday before hosting Undercliffe in the Cup on Monday May 23rd.
Woodlands “B” v Pudsey Congs
At Albert Terrace
Thursday May 5th, 2016
Match Report by Neil Humpleby
A bright sunny evening at Albert Terrace for the first league game of the campaign.
Our hosts won the toss & elected to bat first on a drying wicket.
New signing Josh opened the bowling & took the first wicket with the score on 3 and KK kept up the pressure with a maiden from his first over. Although the run rate was kept down with some accurate bowling, wickets were hard to come by until the introduction of some spin bowling from Lewis in the 13th over. This paid dividends as he took 1 wicket with his third ball & a further two wickets in his second over. It was a good knock from Copley batting fifth for Woodlands which gave the innings some respectability, closing on 65 for 5 off the allotted 20 overs.
L.Gunner 3-1-10-3, J.Stephenson 2-0-9-1, D.Edwards 3-0-4-1
In reply, the Congs set about the chase at a strong pace putting 18 runs on the board in the first two overs. When KK was forced to retire hurt, it was left to Frankie & Josh to do the work. When Josh retired on 30 not out, Ben joined Frankie to see the innings to a close in 12 overs to record an emphatic victory.
J.Stephenson 30 Retired not out, F.Gibson 10 not out, KK 8 not out (retired hurt).
U15’s 2016
Final League Position Central Division = 4th, 17 Points
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Pudsey Congs v Drighlington
At Strikes CS Britannia Ground
Sunday June 19th, 2016
Match Report by Abid Bashir
This weeks game was against Drighlington at home where we batted first and the pick of the batters were Ismail Nazir 24, Harry Widdop 25 and Josh Widdop who scored 9.
We were all out for a total of 89 runs, the young lads batted well against some good fast bowling.
The second innings started and it was time for the young lads of Pudsey to ball. The opening ballers Aqib and Josh both balled well returning spells of 3 overs, 7 runs, 1 wicket and 4 overs, 12 runs, 1 wicket respectively, both bowlers balled exceptional well. The rest of the young bowlers balled tight lines forcing the Drighlington batsmen into mistakes causing wickets to fall at regular intervals. Our Captain Ismail was determined to win rotating his bowlers until everyone of the outfielders had bowled at least one over. At the end of the 20 overs, Drighlington had scored only 75 runs, what a win for the Congs, the first on the field for this young Congs side – What a great game!!!
Well done lads from the Manager & Coach and yes pizzas on us after fasting ends.
Drighlington v Pudsey Congs
At Drig
Sunday June 12th, 2016
Match Report by Abid Bashir
After last weeks game was called off due to unforeseen circumstances by Girlington cricket club who could not travel to us, we visited Drighlington Cricket Club on this over cast day.
We won the toss and elected to ball first. It was the first time we had a full squad and did it show, we were full of confidence. We restricted Drighlington to 82 with everybody balling except for Mueen. We had nine players who balled. We did well to restrict them to the above total and the pick of the ballers were Dominic Edwards, Chris Hill, Cameron Clancy and Lewis Gunner. Dominic Edwards two overs went for 3 runs with no wickets. Cameron Clancy’s two overs were 6 runs for one wicket. Lewis Gunner ended up with two overs for 5 runs with 1 wicket. For the first time Congs had bowled out a full team.
Congs went into bat feeling confident and the pick were Ismail Nazir who retired at 34 but unfortunately nobody else retired and got into double figures and the next highest score was 9 by Mueen Bashir. Our batters seemed to have panicked and started to gift their wickets away giving Drighlington the win.
We were all out for 73, so close yet so far to our first win.
Farsley v Pudsey Congs
At Farsley
Sunday May 29th, 2016
Match Report by Abid Bashir
Our third game of the season was away against Farsley where they batted first and scored a total of 101. We captured 8 of their wickets with Ismail Nazir taking 2 and Dominic Edwards also grabbing two. Due to the fact we only had 7 players, the lads that played worked really hard in the field to restrict Farsley to 101. Everybody fielded extraordinarily well and one felt that if we had a full side they would not have got over 70 runs.
When we batted the only batter that showed any confidence was Ismail Nazir who got 30 not out. The rest of the team panicked and gave their wickets away cheaply. We ended up being all out for 58. Pick of the players was Ismail Nazir who got 2 wickets and had a good day with the bat.
Pudsey Congs v Pudsey St Lawrence
At Strikes CS Britannia Ground
Sunday May 22nd, 2016
Match Report by Abid Bashir
Our second game of the 2016 young season pitted us against our local rivals Pudsey St Lawrence.
We were out batted by a very strong St Lawrence team. The young Congs side were put to the sword early, with two PSL batters retiring as they managed to score a total of 132. Joe Stolarski balled well ending on 4 overs for 18 runs as did Zain Jamshed who balled 4 overs for 24 runs. The only person who got a wicket was Chris Hill who bowled Kumar for 24. I could see the confidence building in the young lads and I could see them getting better as the game went on. PSL ended on 132 for 1.
Unfortunately in reply, we were all out for 69 as some of our senior batsmen failed to score. The only people getting into double figures were Zain Jamshed, Joe Stolaski and Christopher Hill scoring 15, 13 and 19 respectively. Chris shone with the bat and ball on this day. Congs 69 all out.
Keighley v Pudsey Congs
Cup First Round
At Keighley
Mon May 16th, 2016
Match Report by Abid Bashir
The U15’s season started off with a few rained off games. Thankfully the weather co-operated and in our first game we took the field was against a very good Keighley U15 side who had not lost a game in their last two seasons, so it was always going to be an up hill task to win the game for a very young Pudsey Congs side.
Ismail the Captain of the Congs side batted well against some good fast bowling, with wickets falling around him. The board pressure was getting too much and a lapse of concentration did it for lsmail’s wicket.
The young Pudsey team played well against a very experienced Keighley squad and all the team members kept going until the very end.
Pudsey Congs – 51 all out
Keighley – 54 for 0 (Keighley progress in the Cup)
MYSCL 2016
Final League Position = 2nd, 30 Points
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MYSCL Season 2016 in Review
Courtesy of Andre Stolarski (and Liam…)
When the idea of the submission into the Mid Yorkshire Sunday Cricket League was pitched to me, I was a little pessimistic, but after discussion with my co-captain, Liam Stanhope we both decided to embrace the ideal and make a good fist of it. It would mean organising ‘youths’ and transporting them to new venues like Batley and Wakefield St Michaels, relying on parents to assist and also cajoling ‘senior’ players to give up their Sunday’s to ‘help out’ and play.
But, after 7 games (an eighth was conceded to us), I have to say, what an excellent, heart-warming and often exciting season, we have had! Four thumping wins and two narrow last over defeats in our seven games, we gave our loyal supporters plenty to get their teeth into on a Sunday afternoon and finishing a very, credible 2nd place in the League. Before I forget, a special mention must go out to ‘Congs corner’, who have supported and followed us everywhere, you know who you are, your support is not forgotten and very much appreciated.
The games have given experience and massive learning curves for some of our young players ranging from 21, down to 10, which is the aim and the philosophy of the League to promote youth into adult cricket and every game we had more under 21’s than over and one game we fielded 9 out of the 11, a point which some of the opposition we have faced, have not quite adhered to, but each club have their reasons being in the league, but the inclusion of ‘the kids’, have not been to the detriment of the quality of our cricket.
We have had individual performances of 80 and 50 from Ross Kettlewell, 2 50’s from Josh Chapman, a swashbuckling 11 ball 39 from Macca Gaunt, a five wicket haul from Junaid Jamshed and a 4 wicket haul by Jay Turnbull. We have established an excellent opening bowling pair of Joe Stolarski and Harry Jackson, who on every occasion, have held the opposition batsmen back with accurate bowling at the start of the innings, which was all know can shape a game massively.
We have been supported throughout the year by more senior players from the 2nd and 3rd teams, a special mention to Adam Patrick who played in nearly every game for us, with no particular personal gain, cheers Paddy. There are others who have scored, transported, played at short notice, rolled the wicket, prepared the pitches, all of you have made both mine and Liam’s job much, much easier. The tea ladies require a mention, Jayne and her crew have provided ‘Bradford League’ standard teas and are undoubtably the best around, thank you ladies.
So, all in all, and I am sure I speak for Liam, a massive thank you to all involved, however, small, you have made several Sunday afternoons during the season, most memorable. I am sure I have made some glaring omissions, if I have, I apologise, but I thank you too. And to finally sum it up, if you were in the huddle at the end of the game, where we had narrowly lost in the final over to a extremely, strong and experienced Pudsey St Lawrence side at Tofts Road, the show of disappointment on the boys faces shows the passion they have, not only for the game of cricket, but for Pudsey Congs, I can’t remember a prouder moment for a group of very young men, which this season and that game in particular has given me.
Thank you all and see you in 2017.
PCCC Academy v Wakefield St Michaels
At Strikes CS Britannia Ground
Sunday September 11th, 2016
Match report by Andre Stolarski
A fabulous, sunny September afternoon welcomed the visit of WSM to the Britannia for the last game of cricket at the ground for the year. Congs, as always were fielding a very young side and the toss was won and it was decided that the home side would have first use of a flat, hard, good looking pitch.
As usual, Ross Kettlewell opened, this week with Macca Gaunt as opening partner and a steady start ensued, but with the score on 27, Ross, who has had an excellent and consistent season nicked off behind for 5. At 3, the 13 year old Dom Edwards entered and exited for a duck, unable to keep out a delivery from the WSM opening bowlers, 36-2. Whilst Macca went quietly on his way, the introduction of leg-spinner Hasan Ahmed and wily Andy Duce into the attack had a devastating effect on the Congs middle order, Tom Huffinley (10), Joe Stolarski (7), Harry Jackson (3), Jay Turnbull (0), Tommy Pickering (0) and eventually Macca for an excellent 43, all succumbed and the Congs boys were in deep trouble at 84-8!! Ahmed returned an impressive spell of 4-27! Well bowled, young man!
WSM felt that they could wrap this innings up for less than 100 and they would be in the box seat, but with 14 overs remaining, they had to dislodge the experienced pair of Richard Edwards and Andre Stolarski. With calm, no risk, accumulation of runs, smattered with the odd boundary, Redders and Stol went merrily along their way at a rate of 5-6 runs an over and the score was soon towards 150. With one over left, Redders completed a most deserved and well built half century (and as per league rules, over 21’s must retire at 50), and received a heroes ovation from the good sized crowd, and the always vocal, ‘Congs corner’! The pair had put on a unbroken partnership of 91 (more on this later), an excellent example for all the young lads watching, how to construct a healthy score, with low risk shots, good running and using the number of overs up to add to the teams total. The ‘veterans’ did good!!!!! The last over was seen out by Stol (30no) and Liam Stanhope (1no) and Congs ended on a par score of 179-9.
After a hearty tea as always from Jayne and her crew, the second innings began with WSM in pursuit of 180. Despite the first over from Harry Jackson, which we shall describe as ‘wayward’!!!! Jacko and usual opening partner Joe Stolarski hit their lines superbly and put the brakes on the WSM reply, after 10 overs, the reply was 22-2, Jacko claiming the 2 wickets and Joe extremely unlucky not to grab a couple as well. Double bowling change saw Dom and Jay bowl in tandem and what a partnership, Dom tied down the opposition (0-17) and Jay with the simplest of cricketing philosophies, ‘you miss, I hit’, ripped apart the visitors middle order with 4 wickets for 11 runs.
At drinks, the home side were no firmly in control as the board showed 50-6. Ross (1-5) and Macca (1-12) bowled in tandem after drinks and bagged a wicket each, the score now 67-8. Back came the openers, Joe (2-6) and Jacko (2-14) to finish the job and Joe skittled the WSM number 11, ended a superb bowling display and a very comfortable 110 run win for the home side. A quick mention to 10 year old Zak Stolarski, who scored and managed the score box in his first senior match and did an excellent job.
As the boys were pontificating in the bar after the game, Andre had a thought and had a look through the club records and was pleasantly surprised to see that the ninth wicket unbroken partnership of 91 by himself and Redders had broken the existing club record of 85 held by Club President Alan Glover and Walt Butcher, since 1979, the oldest standing partnership record on the books! Just goes to show there is still life in old dogs!!!
PCCC 179-9
WSM 69-10
PCCC win by 110 runs
New Farnley v Pudsey Congs
At Lawns Lane
Sunday August 14th, 2016
Match report by Andre Stolarski
The Sunday boys travelled the short distance to Lawns Lane to take on New Farnley on a sunny, pleasant afternoon.
The NFCC skipper won the toss and elected to bat on a worn looking pitch, our team were a little disappointed as they fancied a bat, but we had to do a job with the ball first up. Regulars openers Joe Stolarski and Harry ‘Jacko’ Jackson started in their usual miserly way and Jacko cleaning up one of the openers early doors, a good start. After their opening burst of 10 overs, the score was on 15-1, on came the ‘spin twins’ of Junaid ‘JJ’ Jamshed and Ismail Nasir, and what a job they did, removing the middle order with ease, backed up with some fine catching, at drinks the home side in trouble at 34-4.
Another double change saw Ross ‘Kenya’ Kettlewell and 13 year old Dominic ‘Dedders’ Edwards, and the wickets kept coming, after the 30 over mark, NFCC were now in deeper trouble at 60-9!! Another change and some friendly’ bowling was served up by Josh ‘Chappers’ Chapman and Adam Paddy’ Patrick to the last pair of the NFCC skipper and 12 year old Louis Storr ticked the score along, with Louis batting well beyond his years playing some lovely strokes, the skipper was out in the last over and Louis ended on 23 not out, good effort young man, but an even better effort by the Congs, who skittled the home side out for a paltry 102. Every bowler deserved great credit and did an excellent job!!
After a most hearty tea of chilli, Nachos, baked potatoes and an excellent sweet trolley selection, a stern word from the skipper asked for the openers to maintain their concentration and knock of this modest total. Ross and JJ went in first and steadily saw off some pretty hostile opening bowling, the home side were really putting maximum effort into their defence of 102!! JJ was bowled playing a rather adventurous stroke and after a several boundaries, Ross followed LBW for 25 and Ishy followed shortly after, but the score was already beyond 50. Enter Dedders (the anchor role) 12 not out and Paddy (the muscle) 32 not out to finish the job off in style, knocking off the winning runs in the 21st over.
Handshakes all round and a passing comment from the home skipper saying it was the best spirited game he had played in all season! Just the way we like to play our cricket!!
A pretty straight forward and impressive win by the young Congs side.
NFCC 102-10
PCCC 103-3
PCCC win by 7 wickets
Pudsey St Lawrence v Pudsey Congs
At Tofts Road
Sunday July 31st, 2016
Match report by Andre Stolarski
Off we went up the hill to our old rivals on a blustery afternoon.
The pitch looked a belter and the opposition looked VERY strong. The ‘holidaying’ Stan selected a very, very young team with only the ‘tossing’ captain of Andre (only just!!!) over the age of 21!!!!! Speaking of the toss, with the pitch looking flat, Stol calling ‘heads’ correctly and electing to bat was very important. A good start!
Opening up was Ross (41) and Junaid Jamshed and against some accurate and hostile bowling, they patiently accumulated, chanceless runs to take us to drinks at 69-0. Straight after, JJ edged behind for 24 and Macca Gaunt entered the fray and for the next 20 minutes, it is fair to say, the crowd scattered as Macca smashed the balls to all parts of Tofts Road scoring 39 in only 17 balls, some finer strokes you will not see!! Jacques Allen also chipped in with a quick-fire 17 and the score reached 142. At this point, experience on the home side’s part and inexperience on ours came to the fore, the runs dried up and with wickets falling at regular points, nobody was able to reach double figures and we ended our innings in the last over with a total of 179.
A respectable and defendable total, yes. Probably 30 or so short, definitely!!
A hearty tea by our excellent hosts awaited. At the interval team talk, we spoke about accurate bowling, trying to get early wickets and put some pressure on the experienced and impressive looking PStL batting line-up.
We went for an on-field captain again and Joe stepped up. Joe and Jacko opened up once again, Joe managing to remove opener Vinnie Schumacher for 4. There our success ended for a while and Jack Allman and Harry Cullingford (55) went along their merry way picking off our bowlers at will, and bringing the total to over 100. We needed a stroke of luck and we got one, an ill-chosen 2 by Allman (36) saw him brilliantly run out by Jacques, a glimmer of hope for the visitors. Well, the next 15 overs or so, saw a phenomenal effort from the boys, it saw us tighten up in the field and the scoreboard pressure started to build with the score starting to stall, some exceptional bowling by JJ and a very impressive Chappers, the wickets began to fall and panic started in the home dressing room. With 4 overs to go, miraculously, the score was 165-9, the home side needing 15 and we required one wicket, so could a most incredible victory be pulled off? Well, maybe, the only two stumbling blocks was first teamer Barrie Frankland and Ex-England ‘A’ Paul Hutchinson were in our way. Chappers and Joe bowled the last overs and it all came down to PStL wanting 3 off the last over, bowled by Joe.
Inevitably, Baz Frankland scored the winning run and the home side all gave a massive sigh of relief. A special mention should be given to JJ (1-27), Chappers (2-10) and Ross (2-24) to turn the game around from and unlikely position, but also to everyone on the field, their attitude, determination and spirit.
From a personal view, it was quite remarkable and for their ages, to be disappointed to lose to a much older, experienced and able side shows how much it meant to them, they should all be proud of their performances and I’m pretty sure anyone who witnessed it, would agree with me!
A brilliant days cricket, excellent entertainment, superb standard and summed up perfectly by one the home team in the bar afterwards by simply saying ‘the best side lost!!’ I couldn’t agree more!
PCCC 179 all out
Pudsey St Lawrence 180-9
P St L win by 1 wicket
Wakefield St Michaels v Pudsey Congs
At Cross Lane, Dewsbury Road
Sunday July 24th, 2016
Match report by Andre Stolarski
The ‘Sunday’ boys went down the motorway to visit Wakefield St. Michaels on an overcast, but warm afternoon.
The ‘Admin’ Captain, Liam Stanhope gathered a young side, but with a bit of senior cricket experience, the ‘tossing’ and batting order captain Andre Stolarski won the toss and elected to bat.
After Josh Chapman (2) went early, Ross Kettlewell and Adam Patrick started to set about the WStM attack and runs and boundaries came quickly. Paddy was smartly caught at mid-wicket for a rapid 36 with the score on 109. Ross continued impressively and as a century looked inevitable, he was grasped behind for a splendid 80. Well played!! 13 year old debutant, Harry Widdop struck a couple of 4’s before a mix-up caused a run out, Harry going for 9. Joe Stolarski (26) and Harry Jackson (18) steadied up the middle overs scoring steadily, taking the total up to 180, before a mini collapse saw Tommy ‘Ronnie’ Pickering (1), Chris Hill (1) and Max Backhouse (15) back in the tent the score was 210, left Stol and Stan to play out the last 5 overs to ensure WStM didn’t get any of our overs. With some scampering and lusty blows, the “old uns” increased the finishing total to a hefty 245 all out in the last over with Stol on 23 and Stan 7no.
It was decided that we would introduce an on-field captain, so pulling the strings was Ross. The total was a daunting one and from the off, the WStM batsmen tried to push on and score runs quickly, but as ever the miserly opening pair of Joe (0-12) and Jacko (1-28) kept the score down, ably backed up by the change bowlers of Chappers (0-22), Chris (1-43) and Harry (1-14), the home side never got their innings going and fell well behind the run rate. The only notable innings was Pete Brown scoring a patient 50 and at the end the young Dom Taylor striking a swift 53no, taking a particular liking to the bowling of the Skipper (1-25) and Ronnie (0-30), but ending the innings at 184-4, some 63 runs short.
A commanding and comfortable win for the Pudsey boys. It should be noted that the decision by Ross to bringing himself on to bowl and a pigeon committing suicide on the field at precisely the same time was merely coincidental!!!!
PCCC 245 all out
Wakefield St Michael 182-4
PCCC won by 63 runs
PCCC Academy v New Farnley
At Strikes CS Britannia Ground
Sunday July 3rd, 2016
Match report by Andre Stolarski
On a sunny, but blustery day at the Britannia, New Farnley got first go on a flat (and despite the rain beforehand) and dry wicket (excellently prepared by ‘axed’ co-captain and now scorer/groundsman Andre Stolarski!!!).
Opening pair of Joe Stolarski and Harry Jackson were on the spot for the off and their joint misery line and length made the task of opening particularly tricky for NFCC’s Elliot Mason and Ben Montague, Joe trapping Mason right in front (LBW for 8). Gethin Clark came in next and gave the innings some momentum with a chanceless and impressive 50 before retiring, Gethin took a particular liking to the spin bowling of the usually reliable Ross Kettlewell desptaching him to all parts (9 x 4’s and 1 x 6).
With the score on 79 and the retirement of Clark, the Congs mid-innings bowlers of Macaulay Gaunt (2-17), Jacques Allen (0-7) and the mightily impressive 13 year old Chris Hill (1-18), put the brakes on the NFCC innings and the runs dried up, as they were only able to eek out the odd single here and there, due to tight bowling and good fielding. The return of Jacko (0-10) and Joe (2-25) for the ‘death’ overs continued the trend and despite a flurry of runs at the end by Nick Terle (31) superbly caught at slip by Adam ‘Paddy’ Patrick and Sam Jackson (21no), the Farnley boys ended the innings on 136-5, which on this pitch looked a little light.
After a hearty tea as always from the tea-ladies, Josh Chapman and Ross opened the innings and after a watchful start, the runs started to flow nicely and the boundary count for both players increased. As they both entered the 40’s, Skipper Liam Stanhope sent out word that they would be retiring at 50 to let others have a knock, which within one over of each other, they duly did, Josh with 50 and Ross 53, lovely timed knocks from both, well played.
With several lusty blows from Joe (15no) in at three and Chris showing a deft touch (4no), the PCCC boys saw off the runs just after drinks in the 22nd over.
A resounding win for the home team, but excellent cricket played on both sides
A quick note : Of the 21 players (NFCC only fielded 10), there were a total of 17 under 21’s, the exact aim of this league to nurture and give experience to youth, well done both teams.
NFCC 136-5
PCCC 138-0
PCCC win by ten wickets
PCCC Academy v PSL Academy
At Strikes CS Britannia Ground
Sunday June 5th, 2016
Match report by Andre Stolarski
The Britannia ground welcomed the ‘up roaders’ for the third derby of the week as PSL arrived with a youthful side (but many well experienced in senior cricket), captained by Archie Scott and under the watchful eye of Player/Coach Paul Hutchinson.
On a hot, sunny cloudless day and a flat pitch, the toss was all important and after Scott called correctly, PSL unsurprisingly elected to bat.
Congs opening bowlers, Joe Stolarski and Harry Jackson were first up, and bowled nice and tight giving little opportunity to the top order and after an early wicket by Joe (Curtis Hardaker for 3), Scott (41), Jack Allman (37) and Jordan Moore (28) (all three are current Priestley Shield and League winners) got their teeth into the innings. Next up, saw over 20 overs of spin with Ross Kettlewell (0-33), Jacob Holling (1-26) and the mightily impressive Junaid Jamshed, who persistently frustrated the PSL batsmen with flight and gile finishing with 5 wickets for 36 runs.
With assistance of the experienced Adam Patrick in the middle overs (1-14) and three victims behind the stumps for Macca Gaunt, the home side just about managed to ‘keep a lid on it’ and with Jack Gaunt (22) and Ashwin Kumar (15no) making quick runs at the end, PSL finished on just about par score, but very competitive of 217-8.
A quick mention must go out to Chris Hill and Zak Stolarski who shared fielding duties covering many yards in the sweltering heat, due to a last minute home side withdrawal.
The Congs’ innings began with Kettlewell (29) and Holling (22), both watchful and put on 62 for the first wicket. Jamshed (29), Patrick (17) and Tom Huffinley (21) pushed the score on and at the score at 139-4, could the boys push on and get towards the PSL total? As the tempo was increased, Congs’ lost regular wickets, Joe (9), Jacko (13), Joe Royce (2), Macca (0), leaving the last pair of father/son of Andre and Zak to play the out the last couple of overs, 10 year old Zak decided ‘enough was enough’ and plundered the PSL floundering attack and finished with 9 not out!!!
A great days cricket with everyone contributing, the game played in the correct way by both sides and with a smile on everyone’s face!
The strongest and best side won on the day, but a credit to both clubs for the attitude and effort.
PSL 217-8
PCCC 172-9
PSL won by 45 runs
Batley v Pudsey Congs
At Purlwell Hall Road
Sunday May 28th, 2016
Match report by Liam Stanhope
Following the cricket committee’s decision to pull out of the u17’s Bradford League, Co-captain Liam Stanhope took a mixed array of players to Batley to participate in a new venture for the club in the Mid Yorkshire Sunday Cricket League. The rules are ‘simple’: 40 overs per side, 8 overs per bowler, Batters aged 21+ retire at 50, Batters under 21 retire at 100.
Pudsey won the toss and elected to bat. Left arm opening bowler Khalil Ahmed struck immediately for Batley removing both openers with his full in-swinging deliveries. Max Backhouse and Jacob Holling rebuilt the Congs innings playing patiently against the restrictive Batley bowling. Runs soon came more freely as the opening bowlers tired with both batsmen starting to find the boundary with ease. With the score on 72, Backhouse edged behind from Huzaifa Patel for a well made 36 and Holling (33) soon followed again caught behind. Joshua Chapman continued his early season form with the bat, confidently driving and flicking the ball around the ground as the Congs innings began to build momentum. 3rd team skipper Macauley Gaunt came and went before Adam Patrick – fresh from his maiden BCL half century the previous day – pushed the score along with a quick fire 30. Batley fought back as the tail found scoring difficult. However, Chapman was still there to keep the score board ticking alongside last man in Chris Doey. In the final over Joshua Chapman finally fell for a well crafted 55 (including 3×4’s and 2×6’s). Pudsey Congs 192 all out.
In reply, Batley’s opening pair played carefully against the left arm seam of Joshua Chapman and Jacob Holling’s off spin. Both bowled with excellent control and beat the bat on several occasions. Yet, it wasn’t until the introduction of u13 Dominic Edwards that Congs could get the breakthrough. In the 13th over Ibrahim Yasin holing out to Ross Kettlewell at long on. Edwards was soon in on the act again as number Saif Arshad hit the ball straight to Tom Huffinley at deep mid-wicket. 53-2 after 17 overs. Ross Kettlewell replaced Holling (who deserved more from his 8-3-0-34) and soon removed Zubair Karolia who played well to make 39. Batley’s 4th wicket partnership brought them back into the game with 1st team batsmen Sufyan Patel scoring a blistering 50 retired, whilst being ably supported by Khalil Ahmed. Kettlewell broke the 86 run partnership clean bolwing Ahmed for 26. Some sloppy fielding gave Batley a fighting chance but they still required 8 an over with 5 remaining. Joe Royce picked up 2 wickets from a single over, both well stumped by Macauley Gaunt and then then re-introduction of Dominc Edwards (who picked up his 3rd wicket) seem to have the Congs home and dry. But, the returning Sufyan Patel who had earlier got his side back into the game with some strong hitting showed all his experience and guile to guide Batley home with one ball to spare! Batley 194-9.
All in all a fantastic game of cricket, played in the right spirit which went right down to the wire.
Despite the loss, a great start to the MY Sunday League for the Congs and a game which proved to be a positive move for our junior cricketers on show. A few thanks to guys who jumped in and played whilst a number of players were otherwise engaged. And a big well batted to Joshua Chapman (55)! A special mention must however go to 12yo Dominic Edwards who bowled exceptionally well. Swinging the bowl with a huge amount of control and returning figures of 7-0-3-24!! And not forgetting a stunning catch at extra cover. Brilliant stuff! Well played young man!