AKS U13s headed into the county finals drawn in a group alongside Bolton and St. Michael’s.
Group Stage
In the opening match against Bolton, AKS batted first and produced an excellent total of 99. There were standout contributions from Winnie V-R , Penny A, Grace W, Emily H and Amelie Y. The bowlers then backed this up brilliantly, making scoring difficult and Bolton were restricted to 73 to secure a strong opening win.
The second group game against St. Michael’s proved to be a tighter contest. Batting first again, AKS posted 82, with both Winnie and Penny retiring on 15 after impressive innings. Despite a solid effort in the field, St. Michael’s managed to chase it down, finishing on 86. However, AKS progressed to the semi-finals as runners-up in the group.
Semi-Final vs Stonyhurst
Facing a strong Stonyhurst side, AKS knew they were in for a challenge. Bowling first, they conceded 104 against some excellent opposition batting.
In response, the team showed incredible determination and togetherness. Under pressure, the girls battled brilliantly and completed a superb chase, reaching 106 with just two balls remaining — a fantastic team performance to book their place in the final.
Final vs St. Michael’s
The final brought a rematch against St. Michael’s. With confidence high after the semi-final win, AKS believed they could turn the earlier result around.
Batting first, AKS posted 87, with strong contributions from Georgiana D-D, Poppy W and Grace W.What followed was an outstanding display in the field. Penny and Amelie led the bowling attack superbly, while Freya W produced three excellent run-outs. The pressure proved too much for St. Michael’s, who were bowled out for 62 in the 7th over and AKS were celebrating being crowned Lancashire Champions and taking home winners medals!
The girls will progress to the North England Finals in April, taking on the other County Cup winners of the North. The winner of North plays against the South winner on the outfield at Lords Cricket Ground in the summer for the title of National Champions.
The team in picture: Penny A, Winnie v- R, Grace W, Amelie Y, Freya W, Poppy W, Georgiana D-D and Emily H.