College Cricketers win in Cup Thrillers

Hurst’s 1st XI cricketers have reached the final of the Langdale Trophy by defeating Brighton College with one ball to spare.

In a scintillating match the visiting Brighton side batted first and scored a total of 95 for 8 off 20 overs. Despite some good strikes from the crease Hurst’s outfield used their speed and accuracy to collect four run outs amid some excellent bowling.

The home side then padded up for the run chase but quickly felt the pressure with the loss of three early wickets. When the scoreboard read 13 for 3 Hurst might have collapsed but for the ensuing partnership of Bradley Gayler (LVI) and James Newland (UVI).

Having settled into a rhythm, the batting duo seemed set to complete their side’s recovery in the final over. However, tension remained high until the penultimate ball when Hurst finally surpassed the required total.

In what was a very successful week for the College’s cricketers, further important wins were recorded by the U14 and U15 A sides that were competing in the Lord’s Taverners and Blackshaw Bowl competitions respectively.

Will Wycherley impressed with the ball in hand against Lancing College for the U15As as he finished on three for 11. Lancing had aimed to overhaul Hurst’s earlier score of 114 for 6 but after 20 overs, they closed on 77 for 9. The victory for Hurst secures a place in the final.

Meanwhile the U14As gained passage to the semi-final when completing a run chase of 55 in 11.5 overs against Cardinal Newman Catholic School: George Oliver top scored with 22.  Hurst’s earlier bowling attack limited their opposition’s score to great effect with Joe Ratcliffe taking 3 for 13. 

All three sides now await news of who they will face in their respective matches.