The Under 15s cricket team had an unforgettable league-winning season, overcoming various challenges and showcasing exceptional talent and teamwork. Under the expert guidance of manager Darren Tyms, and on field leadership of captain Nathan Lawler, the team gelled together to form a cohesive and formidable unit that dominated.
The team played a total of 13 matches, winning 8 and losing only 1, with several matches cancelled or abandoned due to the rainy weather in May and June. Despite these disruptions, the players did not let the weather dampen their spirits, maintaining high morale and determination throughout the season.
Nathan Lawler led by example, scoring a total of 337 runs with a highest score of 70* against Wigan CC. His batting average of 81.7 and not-out innings in five matches were crucial in setting strong foundations for the team’s successes. Lawler also contributed with the ball, taking 7 wickets, and excelled in the field with 5 catches, highlighting his all-round capabilities.
Owen Morrissey played a vital role in the team’s bowling attack, capturing 10 wickets with his best performance of 3-3 against Spring View CC. His consistent bowling and economy rate of 3.67 made him a crucial asset in the bowling department.
Jack Tyms matched Morrissey’s wicket tally with 10 wickets, including a standout performance of 3-8 against Sutton CC, and maintained an economy rate of 4.32. Tyms’ ability to perform under pressure was invaluable to the team.
Freddie Foulkes, in his first season as wicketkeeper, was outstanding behind the stumps, achieving 7 catches and 1 stumping. His spectacular diving effort behind the stumps in the match against Leigh was a highlight of his keeping abilities. His batting ability was evident with a notable innings of 40 runs against Orrell Red Triangle CC, contributing significantly to the team’s success.
Finnlee Millar was a key bowler, delivering 3 maidens and maintaining an economy rate of 2.90. He also contributed 44 runs with the bat, with a top score of 23 against Westleigh CC, Leigh.
Harry Ball added depth to the team with 48 runs and 3 wickets, demonstrating his versatility and value to the squad. Ball also took a good catch in the game against Astley & Tyldesley, showcasing his fielding skills.
Mackenzie Henderson was a reliable player in the field with 2 catches and contributed with a crucial run-out. He took a great catch against Leigh, demonstrating his agility and presence in the field, and best bowling of 1-4.
April Jones playing up an age group from U13s, played 3 matches and added to the bowling strength with 3 wickets, achieving her best figures of 1-9 against Orrell Red Triangle CC.
Sid Ram offered stability both with the bat, scoring 36 runs with a highest score of 19 against Wigan CC, and with the ball, taking 3 wickets.
Tejas Sirikonda showed promise with 17 runs and 5 wickets, maintaining a steady presence in the lineup. His calm catch during the match v Leigh in a presure situation was crucial in maintaining fielding standards.
Ayaan Maheshwari playing up from U13s, scored 34 runs with an important top score of 24 against Sutton CC.
Fin Venables, another player from U13s, was very effective with the ball, taking 6 wickets and bowling 2 maidens, consistently applying pressure on opposing teams.
Mattie Ambage contributed with both bat and ball, scoring 46 runs and taking 3 wickets, showcasing his all-round abilities. His breathtaking one-handed diving catch off his own bowling against Orrell Red Triangle was a standout moment.
Sarah Lawler, although an U11 player, participated in two matches, gaining valuable experience and displaying enthusiasm and potential for future contributions.
The team’s highest score in a match was an impressive 130, and their ability to chase down targets, with the highest successful run chase being 104, demonstrated their resilience and determination. Defensively, they successfully defended a score as low as 93, underscoring the strength of their bowling attack.
Overall, the U15s cricket team demonstrated exceptional skill, teamwork, and fair play throughout the season, earning them a well-deserved league victory. Each player’s contributions, both on and off the field, were integral to the team’s success, promising a bright future for these young cricketers as they continue to develop their skills and passion for the game.
Special Thanks: We would like to extend our heartfelt gratitude to our sponsors, Exsellence, for their generous sponsorship of our junior section, which has been instrumental in supporting the team’s success this season.