The U11s were invited to play against a touring U11 side from South Wiltshire this weekend, a stone’s throw (or a strong 6) away from Hampton Court. The opposition won the toss and put BPG in to bat and it was up to openers Imogen and Alice to get BPG off on a strong foot. Although unlucky to lose some initial wickets, the pair batted well and got some healthy runs on the board. Some good calling and quick runs meant the middle order of Jocelyn, Eleanor, Ruby and Claudie beefed up BPG’s run rate. Fours were the order of the day and an excellent performance by the final two pairs (Lizzie & Evie – 23 runs; Eve & Erin – 33 runs), with neither pair losing a wicket, meant BPG set a healthy target of 292 for the visitors to chase.

Imogen was then called upon to open the bowling and started BPG off with a very tight opening over, conceding just 1 run in the over. All of the girls proved that training has been paying off, with much improved bowling showing good line and length.

In the end, it all came down to the last over. After her exceptional bowling earlier in the match, Imogen was called upon again. No Ben Stokes here – she bowled even better in the last over to take two wickets and secure the win by 20 runs.

Imogen’s overall bowling performance of 4 wickets and conceding just 2 runs in 3 overs puts her as our overall Player of the Match, but all of the BPG girls showed great improvement and spirit in what was a thrilling match to watch against an evenly matched opposition. Thank you to South Wiltshire for the invitation and for a thoroughly enjoyable fixture.

As always, the success of the fixtures is as much down to the supporters and parents as it is to the players on the field. A big thank you to Jack for scoring again and to those parents who offered to help with umpiring and scoring or were there to just soak up the sunshine and encourage the girls from the sidelines.

BPG U11s have a win in the bag and it feels good! Long may it continue…