PUBLISHED 23 April 2021
Our AKS 1st XI Cricket batted first on a fair and even pitch, getting away to a sluggish start. Scoring on 8 runs off the first 6 overs, Morgan D and Ali M amped up the pace and proceeded to score at a run a ball. Morgan D hit some lusty blows and Ali M brought up his half century in stylish fashion. Both openers lost their wickets trying to accelerate towards the end of the innings but Nathan E kept the scoring going great til the end. 112 was a competitive score but would require some excellent bowling and fielding to defend it. Ali M continued his excellent match, bowling tightly and allowing only 7 runs from his first 3 overs.
Kirkham were going along steadily until the introduction of Daniel S and Morgan D changed the game, with several wickets in quick succession. Kirkham batsman Louie J took up resistance for the visitors and countered with some excellent hitting.
AKS had a fight on their hands but remained determined, trying to keep the scoring to singles or even dot balls. Nathan M and Fraser B bowled handy spells, and AKS fielders kept their cool under pressure. With 12 required off the final over, Kirkham scored 2, 0, 4. 6 required off the last 3 deliveries - spectators on the edge of their seats. Kirkham batsman Max P hit a long, high ball and AKS hearts were in their mouths. Daniel S tracked sideways is desperate search of the ball. He steadies, turns and holds out steady hands to complete a fantastic outfield catch under pressure.
AKS were able to keep the final 2 deliveries to minor scores and take out victory by just 2 runs in a thriller!
1st XI Cricket: AKS Lytham 2/112 def Kirkham Grammar School 8/110. Top performers were Ali M 57, Morgan D 40, Fraser B with 2/21 and a magnificent outfield catch by Daniel S in the final over.