North Kildare Minor B 76-6 (Nett 46) Lost to Hills Minor B Red 128-4 (Nett 108). On a day where fishing boats would refuse to leave harbour, The Hills were not perturbed by the remnants of Storm Alex’s strong westerlies. Losing the toss but getting your wish to bat first is a skill that Hills Captain Chandrahas would do well to keep in the years ahead. The strong westerly wind meant the North Kildare bowlers teased the Hills openers with balls that moved like a Ronaldo freekick. Settling in to the task, the Hills pairs scored as follows Tom Jackson & James Davies 25-1, Daniel Adderley & Chandrahas Chellagurki 18-1, Jarlath & Elliott Clinton 20-1, Cillian Fogarty & Sam Clinton 32-0 and Leo Russell & Ryan Clinton 33-1. With extras bringing the Hills total to 128 for 4 wickets, a challenging total for the home side was set. Shreyas Chellagurki and Aram Akbar both batted beautifully in an extra pairing requested by the home team.
Bowling & fielding has been a focus for the Hills during pre-season and once again the benefits of these extra hours were visible to all present. All our bowlers can be proud of their work but special mention to Ryan (2 for 4), Leo (2 for 3) and Aram (1-3). Not satisfied with conceding the limelight to his brother Sam pulled off a ‘Worldie’ of a catch at Mid On where mere mortals would have ducked for cover. The Hills fielding was sharp all day and Sam (that man again) combined with Leo to produce a fine run out to further dent the home team’s ambitions. All in all, a very professional performance from the Hills Minor B-Red team in conditions that tested both players, umpires and spectators. Great credit to both teams for playing with great spirt and the joint team photo reflects this nicely.
Thanks to all the parents who made the journey and got the players all the way to Kildare for 10am start.Mark, Simon Stephen and Ravi. Thanks to Simon Adderley for the report.