For the second weekend in a row the Western Warriors Under 14s made use of the late summer sun to record two wins in two T20s! This weekend, the Warriors were at home – with “Titwood” (Clydesdale CC) being the host venue, as the Caledonian Highlanders made the trip south.  Once again, lead coach Tim Hart reports on the day’s play:

“Batting first in game one, the Warriors 123 for 4 was based around 49 (off 50 deliveries) from skipper Bahadar Eskahiel (Clydesdale CC) and 40 (48) from Uzair Ahmad (Ferguslie CC) – the pair putting on 101 for the third wicket! The team effort was notable for only 5 boundaries being scored in the twenty overs – but also for some very impressive scampering between the wickets in the final overs!  In reply, good early bowling was backed up by some athletic fielding. The pressure eventually led to the breakthrough, in the 9th over, with Nasratullah Safi (Glasgow Accies CC) holding on to a caught and bowled opportunity. From there, the bowlers and fielders squeezed the game well – with Shlok Thaker (Clydesdale CC) bowling a double-wicket maiden and the fielding unit contributing three run outs. Highlanders 54 all out (19.5).

The second match saw the Warriors bat first, again. This time the team posted 116 all out (19.5 overs) – with the scorecard having a slightly odd look to it! Ben Willmott (Clydesdale CC) opened and anchored the innings with 46 (54), only Ahmad 15 (11) joined him in making double figures – and batters two, three, four and five all scored 0!  The Highlanders, again, got off to a good start – 35 for 0 off six overs. However, Ewan McCartney (Helensburgh CC) then ended the game as a contest – by bowling a triple-wicket maiden, one thanks to a really sharp catch from Esakhiel at extra cover. From there, the wickets were again spread out between the bowlers – and there were another two run outs, highlighted by a great direct hit from Rory Paterson (Glasgow Accies CC). Highlanders 75 all out (17 overs).

Overall, it was pleasing to record another two wins – and to continue the policy of utilising the batters and bowlers at different times throughout the each innings.  Across the four matches, Ahmad has been the standout batter – with Esakhiel and Willmott making significant contributions too.  Nine different bowlers have taken wickets, there have been some good moments in the field – but, more importantly, everyone within the squad has had the opportunity to contribute as we continue with our return to cricket.  Next week sees both the Under 14s (and Under 16s) complete their summer programme, with two ‘intra-squad’ T20s.”