Liphook U13 Hurricanes opened their season with a deserved win over Rowledge in a tight contest at Stedham. Liphook won the toss and elected to bat, and an opening stand of 47 runs in 5 overs from Alfie S (17) and Stanley W (28no) put pressure on the Rowledge bowlers from the start. Contributions from all the batters, including a rapid 17 from Callum Q, pushed Liphook along to 125/3 from the allotted 20 overs.

Rowledge responded well with an opening partnership of 65 runs for no loss from 9 overs before both batters retired, meaning the scores were neck and neck and a tight finish was inevitable. However, the Liphook bowling attack immediately set to work on the new batters and in the 10th over, Alfie S took a crucial wicket to nudge Liphook ahead and slow the Rowledge run rate. Accurate and disciplined bowling from Walter W kept Rowledge in check with the required run rate creeping up, followed by vital wickets from Arlo H and Charlotte D that dampened any hopes of a Rowledge fight back. A late flurry of runs from the returning Rowledge opener in the final 2 overs kept the capacity crowd on edge, but Liphook’s outstanding bowling and fielding proved the difference.

Overall, a great result and a really positive start to the season with every player contributing with bat and ball!!!