Rainhill Academy XI (Lawler 54, Sirikonda 30, Ball 25; Reagan 2-28)
Mossley Hill 3rd XI 175 All Out (Ullah 51, Reagan 30; Tyms 4-42, Sirikonda 2-7)
On a hot and sunny Sunday, the youthful Rainhill CC 4th XI academy team delivered a solid performance against Mossley Hill CC 3rd XI. Winning the toss and electing to bat first, Rainhill set the stage with a robust opening partnership that propelled them to a winning position.
Nathan Lawler and Harry Ball opened the batting for Rainhill and quickly asserted their dominance. Lawler, who played a pivotal role, scored a dynamic 54 runs off 48 balls, embellished with eight fours and a six. Alongside him, Harry Ball contributed a valuable 25 runs, helping to build an opening stand of 69 runs. This strong foundation was crucial for Rainhill as it not only steadied their innings but also put pressure on the Mossley Hill bowlers from the outset.
Following the solid start, middle-order contributions from Tejas Sirikonda who scored 30 and a partnership between Jack Tyms (22) and Finnlee Millar (17). Together, they added 37 runs, with Tyms hitting briskly at a run a ball, including four boundaries. Their partnership not only steadied Rainhill after losing a few quick wickets but also propelled the scoring rate at a critical juncture.
Ending their innings at 198 all out, Rainhill’s batting depth was evident, bolstered by significant contributions across the board. The team benefited from 39 extras, which padded their total considerably.
Defending their total, Rainhill’s bowlers rose to the occasion with Jack Tyms leading the attack. Tyms took four crucial wickets, effectively breaking into Mossley Hill’s middle order and thwarting any chances of a comeback. Tejas Sirikonda supported well, with two key wickets, showcasing control and precision in his bowling spell of 5 overs and an economy rate of just 1.40.
Mossley Hill, in their chase, were contained to 175 all out within 33.3 overs. Rafi Ullah did his best to ignite a fightback with a spirited half-century, but the disciplined bowling from Rainhill, coupled with strategic field placements, ensured a comfortable win for the young team.
This victory highlighted the skill and potential of Rainhill’s academy team, earning them 25 points and demonstrating their skill in both batting and bowling facets of the game. The strong start by the openers and a committed team effort in the field underscored a promising season ahead.
