Avigdor blasts 98 on debut to secure consecutive victories

We arrived at Peter May with a young and inexperienced side, after the most troubled week of availability in the past two seasons, with the bank holiday, Fulham FC, the Lord's Test and late injuries leading to hours spent on the phones by all skippers on Thursday and Friday. Having said that, the 5s retained some exciting colts talent and were ready to give it our best against a Winchmore Hill side who had the luxury of picking from 16 players. Charles won the toss and opted to bowl on a green but hard pitch and Nico Smith (1/31) and Noman (1/29) started well, but a watchful partnership meant we were without a wicket after 12 overs. Young Will Frais (3/30), back from a hip strain, bowled tremendously, particularly in his first spell, to make a double breakthrough, and when Alex Croft (2/27 off 10), bowling with superb control and accuracy, struck from the far end, we were suddenly on top. The skipper removed the number 5 immediately after being dispatched onto the 4G pitch then bowling one off the strip. All about the set up. The openers returned and we got the tail out despite a frustrating couple of knocks. 188 looked a tough chase. There is a man named Josh Avigdor. This man is 16 years old and 6ft 2. This man is not available to purchase on fantasy cricket, nor was he included in 'fake news Friend's' team sheets on Thursday. This man plays with a stickerless piece of willow. And he smashes it. Having initially wanted to bat down the order because he wasn't a 'traditional player', Josh batted at 3 and, after a slightly uppish start, proceeded to smack the bowling to all parts. Clean hitting, found the gaps perfectly and 18 boundaries overall. An incredible knock which makes me proud to lead a side which gives these Colts such opportunities. We must mention Bishal (58) too, who looked elegant and effortless in compiling a second straight half century. This included an outrageous pick up for six off his legs. Uncle Timmy also batted and ensured we had one fewer to chase. This was a great win against the odds. Onto Southgate next week. Let's keep the momentum going.