Rainhill 102-4 (Lawler 50*, Tyms 15; Delve 2-17)
Euxton 103-3 (Delve 52*, Millar 1-6, Sirikonda 1-17)
On a warm and sunny evening at Rainhill CC, the stage was set for an intense match between Rainhill CC U15s and Euxton CC U15s. Rainhill, perched at the top of the league, faced their nearest rivals Euxton, who were hot on their heels in second place.
Winning the toss and electing to bat first, Rainhill’s innings began cautiously against Euxton’s disciplined bowling attack. They struggled to accelerate initially, with only 9 runs on the board after the first 4 overs. However, Nathan Lawler provided a crucial anchor, playing a composed innings and eventually retiring not out after scoring 50 runs. His knock included 4 boundaries and 2 sixes, steering Rainhill towards a competitive total. Supporting contributions came from Jack Tyms (15 runs from 12 balls) and Owen Morrissey (14 runs from 10) which helped Rainhill reach a total of 102-4 in their allotted 20 overs. A total that didn’t seem possible at the half way stage of the innings.
In reply, Euxton started steadily but also faced early setbacks due to disciplined bowling from Rainhill. Tejas Sirikonda and Finn Millar struck early, removing key batsmen to put Euxton under pressure. However, Alfie Delve’s resilient innings turned the tide in Euxton’s favor. Delve retired not out after scoring a crucial 52 runs, which included 7 boundaries and 1 six. Despite some effective bowling spells from Rainhill, including Fin Venebles bowling 2 overs, for just 2 runs, Euxton managed to reach their target with 16.5 overs, finishing at 103-3 and winning by 7 wickets.
Rainhill’s fielding effort, though spirited, was marred by missed opportunities, including three dropped catches, which ultimately proved decisive in the closely contested match. With this result, Rainhill now finds themselves sharing the second spot in the league standings with Euxton having moved above them. Rainhill will reflect on areas to improve as they continue their campaign in the Wigan and District Junior Cricket League U15s division for 2024.
Junior matches are sponsored by: