Fleet CC Under-13 A’s arrived at Eversley New Ground on Tuesday 6 May 2025 determined to make their mark, and from the moment the first ball was bowled they showed why they’ll be a force in this year’s Tier 1 North campaign.

Under a cold evening sky, a brisk, chilling wind swept across the ground—whispering through the long boundary ropes and easing only as the sun dipped below the trees. The wicket looked firm, with a hint of length in the grass to tease both bat and ball, while patches of the outfield, spiked with longer, slower grass, promised to sap pace off well-struck drives.

Despite losing the toss, Fleet’s seamers rose magnificently to the occasion. Alby Meadows set the tone with a probing two-over spell that yielded 2 wickets for just 13 runs, uprooting both openers with unerring accuracy. Mihir Sanghavi backed him up superbly, finishing with figures of 1 for 5, while Freddie Philip claimed the crucial wicket of James Stanton to finish with 1 for 11. Behind them, Daniel Vint, Tristan Du Plessis, Sam Bellamy, Noah Bailey and Charlie Chatfield maintained relentless pressure, never allowing the hosts to build momentum—even though Eversley’s innings was bolstered by 42 extras.

When it was Fleet’s turn to bat, their top order showed tremendous poise. Opener Matthew McLauchlan grafted a solid 12 before a sharp run-out brought his stay to an end. Skipper J P Badenhorst then took charge, racing to a fluent 27 that featured four crisp boundaries and kept the required rate well within reach.

At number three, Daniel Vint applied himself brilliantly under pressure, remaining unbeaten on 24 off 40 balls with a blend of watchful defence and well-timed strokes that kept Fleet in the hunt right to the death. George Wood† joined him to add a late burst of energy—his 20 off just 15 deliveries showcasing a positive approach—before Tristan Du Plessis contributed a quickfire 7 off 6 balls to leave Fleet needing just five runs from the final over.

With victory tantalisingly close, Fleet’s supporters held their breath as the last over unfolded. The fielding side, however, refused to relent, cutting off boundary options and chasing down every run. When the final delivery was claimed by the wicketkeeper, Fleet had posted 112 for 4 in their 18 overs—just four runs shy of Eversley’s 116.

Though the result didn’t go their way, this performance underlined Fleet’s strengths: a deep, disciplined pace attack, electric fielding and a top order capable of absorbing pressure and accelerating when it matters. If they can sharpen those finishing touches and curb the odd loose delivery, wins like this will surely be on the horizon.