The Rascals travelled to Slough for the final of the Berkshire Under 13 cup, having won through by virtue of winning the regional league competition. After winning the toss, Captain Euan decided to bat and he and Dan set off to build a total. An opening partnership of 31 in quick time provided a solid foundation, with Dan retiring on 30 off 28 balls. Khunsh with 24 off 24 and Idris with 17 including two towering sixes, continued the momentum against some tight Slough bowling, and with Wilson hitting a brilliant 24 off 15 and some fantastic running between Tanish and Shourya the Rascals finished on 137 for 7. A competitive total, and a selfless performance from all the batsmen.

The Slough reply was immediately under pressure from the opening bowlers DP and Euan. Devansh Panda, now several yards quicker than his Dad, bowled one of the openers with an absolute rocket in his 3 overs taking 1 for 9 and Euan tied down the batsmen at the other end with 3 overs for 14. Shourya and Rihaan kept up the pressure but a partnership developed which looked threatening. Euan turned to his spinners and they both delivered. Ollie had the dangerous number 3 caught by Harry at point in his 3 overs 1-9 and Harry himself with 2 tight overs for 12 wrestled control back for the Tavs. Tanish followed up with 2-12 from his 3, and Idris with 1-3 from 2 overs, both bowling with a wet ball due to the rain which arrived in the latter part of the innings, and the game was ours. Slough finished on 112-7.

So the Rascals took the Under 13 trophy for the second year running. Huge credit to all the players, a talented and spirited group who play for each other, and are a pleasure to watch. We must not forget Rajeev’s contribution, whose detailed planning and dedication has been a major factor in their success. The Orchestra cannot play without the Conductor.