Since the end of August, the College 1st XI cricket team has had an excellent set of matches, showing great promise and high levels of skill in winning four out of their five games.
The first match of the season saw a strong Wimbledon U18 side, blessed with numerous county players, successfully chase down Epsom’s 233-5. Epsom’s good total had been built around a superb debut hundred (132no) from Brendan Hildebrand (H). Wimbledon needed a six from the final ball to win, which they duly achieved – a stunning finish to an excellent match.
A comfortable 10 wicket victory followed against Guildford U18s, Epsom completely outplaying their opponents, dismissing them for just 70.
Wilson’s School visited for a Friday T20 match broadcast live on Pitchvision, and saw a tremendous 114 not out off 59 balls from Brandon James (F), as Epsom won by 113 runs with an impressive bowling and fielding display.
Spencer CC were the Saturday opponents, and Epsom posted a seemingly below par 208-9 in their 40 overs, with many players getting started but not going on to big scores. However, a stunning opening spell by Kartik Jain (G) 3-11 and Brandon James put Spencer on the back foot and they were bowled out for 113.
On Sunday Ashtead CC’s U19 team compiled a patient 142 all out against a disciplined and miserly Epsom attack, with Brendan Hildebrand’s leg spin taking 4-24. A typically aggressive half century for Tom Lynagh (F) set Epsom up for a 6 wicket victory with several overs to spare.
The squad is looking for more success this weekend with two more matches against Esher U19s and Ardingly College.
