U11 Oakham Mixed 6 A Side Tournament
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Match Report
On Friday, an U11 mixed hardball team took part in the annual Prep Schools Six-a-Side tournament hosted at Oakham School. Under clear blue skies and soaring temperatures, the travelling team arrived in good time ready for their first match against new opponents, Dame Bradbury’s. Captain Rory P lost the toss and the opposition chose to field - a decision that suited St Hugh’s who were keen to bat. Alistair O and April S opened the batting, securing a solid start with a mix of single runs and fours. However it took a while for the team to settle into the format, with a focus on lowering the number of five-run reductions for each wicket. During the innings they scored 246-7 which ultimately wasn’t enough to overcome a strong Dame Bradbury’s side - despite a standout effort from Seb F, who took wickets with both the first and last deliveries of the opposition's innings.
In the second round, St Hugh’s faced Wisbech Grammar School who we often meet across various sporting codes, making for a healthy competition. Again, the team were sent to bat first and a change of pairs proved to be the right decision. Josh F and Harriet T gave the team early momentum, combining quick runs and well-placed boundaries that lead to the closest fixture of the day. In the field, the team responded with great composure and accurate bowling resulting in key wickets from April S, Josh F, and Seb F. With one ball remaining Wisbech needed two runs to win but a final dot ball sealed the narrow victory for St Hugh’s.
After lunch, we had one remaining round fixture versus Radcliffe College who were at the top of the table. It was the Woodhall Spa duo Seb F and April S who took to the crease first, demonstrating great communication in the reduced three over per pair structure. Against fast bowlers, St Hugh’s managed to protect their wickets well with some great defensive shots from Harriet T and fours scored by Rory P and Josh F. When Radcliffe came into bat, Josh F took a couple of wickets, while Alistair O’s tight bowling created the opportunity for Rory P to stump them out. Unfortunately, Radcliffe came away with the win in a great match!
Due to time constraints, the finals were shortened to two overs per pair which made for a quick, fast-paced conclusion to the tournament. Once again, St Hugh’s batted first and all pairs worked together to secure multiple fours and their first six by Rory P. Every member of the team bowled an over, and while only two wickets were taken, there were clear signs of improvement with the opposition's run rate slowing and less wides and no-balls throughout the innings. Overall, it was a fabulous day of cricket, full of fun, learning and team spirit. Well done boys and girls!