Wythenshawe CC U18s with a thrilling three-wicket victory over Whalley Range CC at Longley Lane, chasing down 114 with just one ball to spare.

After losing the toss and being asked to field, Wythenshawe produced a disciplined bowling display to restrict Whalley Range to 113/7 from their 20 overs. No batter was able to dominate for long, with S Butt (25), I Amrez (20) and Z Khan (19) all making starts before the home side struck back.

The wickets were shared around impressively, with R. McCoy leading the attack with 2-19, while Capt. J. Bonfield (1-13) delivered the most economical spell.
A Walker, J. Gutteridge,
M. Platt and
H Weatherhead-Faza all claimed a wicket apiece as Wythenshawe kept the visitors in check throughout.

The chase proved anything but straightforward.
A. Walker top-scored with a patient 25, while J. Gutteridge (14), M. Platt (12), L. McCoy (11)* and T. Curtis (10) all made valuable contributions, the game went right down to the wire before the unbeaten pair of M. Platt (12)* and B. Dibben (5)* calmly guided Wythenshawe over the line at 114/7 in 19.5 overs.

An excellent all-round team performance from the U18s, showing composure under pressure to secure a hard-fought victory and collect four league points.

Commiserations to the Whalley Range lads. courteous in defeat and always a well run and disciplined outfit, a great, hard fought game of cricket by both teams, spurred on no doubt by the cheers from the big crowd spilling out of the club after watching England win their World Cup match vs DR Congo.
Which called for double celebrations!!
Match photos: Tracy Bailey