Delph's 3rd XI development squad flexed their muscles with a convincing 8-wicket victory away at Denton 3rd XI to get their season off and running.
The bowling attack set the tone for the win, spearheaded by dominant bowling from Isaac Davis. His sharp bowling dismantled the Denton batting line-up, claiming an impressive 6 wickets for a mere 21 runs. The pressure never let up for the hosts, with youngsters Lois George and Jacob Thorpe chipping in with a wicket apiece. Denton were eventually bundled out for a below-par 95 runs inside 34 overs.
Chasing a modest target, Delph's batting line-up displayed a mature performance. Debutant Steven Collins impressed with a well-compiled 33 runs at the top of the order before a slight misunderstanding resulted in a run-out. Max Leaver, fresh off his wicket-keeping duties in the first innings, contributed a valuable 33 runs with the bat to help see home the victory with 97-2 in 20 overs.
Delph 3XI skipper, Wilf Shaw, was left beaming after the win. He praised the impact of the new additions, particularly Steven Collins and the three other debutants. However, Shaw referred to the potential lack of "dads army" reinforcements and with Findlay Holland and Adam George focused on their GCSE exams he expects them to enter the fray when they’ve finished their studies. He did, however, acknowledge that Dave George, after a heavy night on Italy’s finest premium lagers, managed to find a comfortable spot at third man to "rest his eyes" during the excitement.
Wilf’s troops have had to rearrange Woodhouses visit to HQ next Sunday 19th May due to a rescheduled cup fixture for the two senior teams. They’ll next be in action in our inaugural T10 tournament, sponsored by Carey McMullen on Bank Holiday Sunday. Don’t miss it!
