Shaw 4XI turned in a dominant all-round performance to hammer Micklehurst 2XI by 256 runs. Batting first, Shaw piled up an imposing 309 for 7 in 40 overs, led by an excellent opening stand from Jack Clarke and Zak Pemberton. Clarke showed great maturity for his 48 off 70 balls, while Pemberton, a First XI regular helping the younger players, struck a rapid unbeaten 50 from 21 balls. Theo Hall, another talented junior, kept the momentum going with a lively 46 off 37 deliveries, as Shaw’s top order laid the perfect foundation.

The late innings fireworks came courtesy of captain/ dream maker extraordinaire Brian Lord, another First XI player, who blasted an unbeaten 62 from just 24 balls batting at number 9. His power hitting propelled Shaw well beyond 300. Junior Isaac Mills also chipped in brilliantly, finishing 50 not out from 37 balls and starring with three sharp stumpings behind the sticks. It was the perfect blend of youth and experience, with Shaw’s juniors shining alongside their senior teammates.

Defending a huge total, Shaw’s young leg-spinners took centre stage. Jack Harrop ripped through Micklehurst’s batting with a fantastic 5 for 14 off 6.2 overs, while Lucas Flint was equally devastating, claiming 4 for 14 from his 6 overs. Flint had also contributed 17 runs off just 13 balls earlier in the innings. Micklehurst struggled against the turning ball and were bowled out for just 53 inside 20 overs, unable to handle the skill and composure of Shaw’s young attack.

This was a truly outstanding team performance from Shaw 4XI, showcasing their exciting pool of junior talent, backed by experienced heads. The likes of Clarke, Hall, Mills, Harrop and Flint showed they are ones to watch for the future, while the guidance from senior players like Pemberton and Lord made for a perfect combination. With such a bright group coming through, the future of Shaw Cricket Club looks very secure. Joe Aston also featured in the game.