AFTER England's recent success in the Caribbean in the Bajan sunshine, one could have been excused for mistaking The Park at Ross CC for the Bridgetown Oval as a clear, blue sky oversaw the U15s HJL game between Ross and Colwall on Sunday 23rd May. Colwall batted first and on a slow wicket got off to a slow start progressing to 14-2 off 6 overs thanks to a double wicket maiden from Harry Porter who was accompanied well by the reliable Charlie Davies.
After this good opening spell, the Ross bowlers continued to apply pressure with good tight bowling from Jack Donovan (1-14) who was getting some shape like Darren Gough in his prime and the languid, lanky frame of Gabriel Warwick (2-18) whose left arm spinners were not too dissimilar to those of Sulieman Benn. Colwall were unable to cope and were struggling at 62-5 after 19 overs. But the solid Coleman and the stoic Larkin provided good resistance and got Colwall up to 119-8 off 30 overs with Elliot Davies chipping in to return (2-29).
Tea was enjoyed by all and seemed to refuel and re-energise the Ross top order even further, somewhat disproving that cakes and crisps are bad for you. Porter and Warwick quickly tucked into the Colwall attack. Warwick with flamboyant Gayle-like strokes hit (51*) retired and Porter (22) before falling to Garnett. Although Jeffryes was run out for 1, the chase was continued by Ben Robbins (29*) including the stoke of the day over extra cover. The batting display was brutal and the target was reached in only 13 overs, capping off a very good day for the U15 side.
The team is grateful to Nigel Donovan for scoring and the tea ladies for their superb working in providing a delightful spread.