Young Cricketers from across North Wales came together to battle it out in the final of the North Wales Police Challenge Shield, an event which has become embedded into the junior cricketing calendar.
The annual competition, which is now in its 21st year, was again supported by North Wales Police and Community Trust (PACT) funding.
The finals day, which is run in conjunction with the Cricket Board of Wales, was played at Mochdre Cricket Club (CC) and due to persistent rain was put back a week to Sunday September 15th.
Unfortunately the early morning weather was still very unsettled and it was decided to share the U11 trophy between Newtown CC and Mold CC.
The under 13’s final was between Northop CC and Menai Bridge CC. Northop won the toss and elected to bat first. F. Skeffington started well scoring 23 runs; and S. Davies (17) and D. Davies (12) chipped in helping Northop to a respectable score of 101 from their 20 overs. G. Hodgkinson was the pick of the Menai bowlers with 2 wickets from his 2 overs.
Menai set about the run chase with intent. H. Williams and O. Jones got Menai off to a flyer, both retiring on 30 runs. They were supported by L. Midgley who saw the team over the line. Both teams are to be commended on their excellent attitude and the spirit in which the game was played.
Under 13 Champions – Menai Bridge
The Under 15’s final was competed between Colwyn Bay CC and Mold CC. With the rain creeping ever nearer, Mold won the toss and elected to bat. Middle order fireworks from G. Godwin, H. Roberts, L. Boulton and G. Edwards all retiring on 30 saw Mold reach an impressive 185 from their 20 overs.
A quick turnaround and Colwyn Bay were put under pressure losing an early wicket and reaching 15 from 4 overs….and then it began raining…and raining…and didn’t stop..
Coach’s from both sides were scratching their heads trying to figure out a suitable date and location for a rematch, however Finn Hughes, the Colwyn Bay captain, showed what the spirit of cricket is all about and declared their innings, handing the victory to Mold. The decision was a real act of maturity and respect, encapsulating just what junior cricket is all about. Da Iawn Finn.
Under 15 Champions – Mold CC
Thanks go to Huw Kelly and Andy Goodwin, our umpires on the day. Their support and the way they managed the game was superb.
I would just like to take this opportunity to thank North Wales Police, and in particular Dave Evans from PACT; for their continued support and dedication to the North Wales Junior Cricket League. We are forever grateful for the sponsorship and support you have provided over the many years.
Finally, we would like to thank Sergeant Neal Parkes for his many years of dedication to representing North Wales Police at every Finals Day. Neal is not only a superb example for the North Wales Police, but he has also put endless hours in over many years and we would not have been able to make Finals Day as successful without him. Neal will be missed next year and we would like to wish him a happy retirement.