The Under 15s got off to a winning start with a tight 2 run win away at Holtwhites. Openers Aaryan (18) and Daniel (10) set a solid platform however, Holtwhites bowled very accurately and Southgate struggled to get out of 2nd gear. Aaron, playing 3 years up, batted well in the middle order scoring a solid 14 from 21 balls and a couple of late boundaries from Krish and Dylan got them up to an under par yet defendable 106 for 6.

Southgate bowlers would need to be on the money from the start and unfortunately struggled to control the new ball, giving away too many extras in the first few overs. At 70 for 2 after 10 overs a Southgate win felt incredibly unlikely. However, some inspired bowling and the dark brought on by the setting sun made it increasingly hard for the Holtwhites batters. The highlight of the blowing came from Anay finishing with figures of 4 wickets for 9 runs from 4 overs. Other bowlers did their part as Southgate battled back into the game with tight bowling and aggressive fielding. Hugo went for just 1 run in his only over Jack and Aaryan going to 1/8 and 1/7 respectively from their 2 overs.

With 7 required from the last over, Southgate held their nerve to register an amazing comeback victory winning by just 2 runs. Areas to work on for new coach Yolanda but amazing to get an early win under the belt with some spirited resilience the club should be proud of.

Scott Ellis