THE Isle of Wight Cricket Board's U16 side notched up a memorable victory over a talented Hampshire Pathways RPC South East U15 side at Ryde School — but it was a nervy finish for them.
After winning the toss and batting first, the Island started well, through Ian Hailes (50), Harry Everard (32) and Harrison McQuillan (19), to help them reach 121-1.
However, a flurry of wickets saw them finish their 35 overs on 189-9, although there were some useful middle-order contributions from Thomas Southcott (24) and Kensei Parker (22).
It looked like the Isle of Wight were going to be comfortable winners, with Hampshire RPC reduced to 90-7, following great spells from Southcott (2-12) and Parker (2-27).
But an 81-run partnership for the eighth wicket sent the game to a tense conclusion.
A stunning run out from Ollie Cheeseman broke the partnership, including smart work with the gloves from Everard.
Island skipper Jacob Palin then took a sharp catch for the ninth wicket, before Rafe Hawkins (3-21) sealed the game with his third wicket with next ball, to dismiss Hampshire RPC and earn the Isle of Wight victory by 13 runs.
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