On Satuday the 2nd XI welcomed Bilton to the Homestead and despite some early inclement weather, the rain eased and a 30 over a side match was possible. James Burnett won the toss and inserted visitors. Anas Imitaz and Steve Wales opened the bowling, and it was Anas who took the first two wickets to leave Bilton 17-2 and when Steve picked up his first Bilton were in trouble at 35-3. From here though Paul Cannings played nicely for 34 before he was caught by Chana off the bowling of Stevens for 34 trying to increase the scoring rate after drinks. This made the score 65-4 and from here the Bilton innings stalled and saw them bowled out for 97. The wickets were shared round with 3 for Stevens and Anas, and two for Archie Ralphs and Wales.

Chasing a modest score, Leeds were hoping for a good start, however this was not forthcoming due to some accurate Bilton opening bowling. Cawood was dismissed second over for 5 and was followed quickly back to the changing room by Farooq and Chana who didn’t trouble the scorers. When Gomersall fell for a dogged 7 and Duncan Ralphs was caught behind for 4, Leeds were 37-5 off 18 overs. From here though, the experience of Stevens shone through as his counter attacking 40 from just 29 balls with 7x4s and 1x6 was just what Leeds needed. He was ably supported by a patient innings from Numan Khan of 30* from 66 balls. North Leeds winning by 5 wickets to pick up 19 points.

North Leeds progress to T20 quarter finals

A good all-round display in all three facets saw the 2nd XI progress through to the quarter-finals of the Birtwhistle Cup, beating Saltaire by 101 runs. Batting first North Leeds made excellent progress throughout with skipper James Burnett setting the tone very early, lifting his second ball over mid-on for four. He complied an excellent 50 from 35 balls before being dismissed caught behind to leave the score 85-1 from 10. At the other end he was well supported by Ben Cawood who made 32 before being caught for 32. Aqib Iqbal made a very composed 35 from 21 balls as Leeds upped the scoring rate towards the end. Farooq and Iqbal fell within an over of each and Leeds were 148-4 with 3 overs left. Some late order hitting, including the last two balls disappearing for six, from Anil Chana (38* from 18 balls) so North Leeds post a very competitive 194-4 in 20 overs.

In the second half, Leeds continued on top as Summerscales and Wales opened the bowling, Saltaire were quickly 17-2. This was followed by a truly magnificent catch, the highlight of the day without doubt! A Nick Summerscales delivery was forced off the back foot through the covers, only for Duncan Ralphs to jump and dive to his right, pulling off a spectacular one-handed catch! For those that haven’t seen it the video is our pinned tweet on Twitter. This left Saltaire 17-3 from 6 overs, a position from which they never recovered, finishing 93-9. Two wickets a piece for Wales, Summerscales and Archie Ralphs, and even Duncan Ralphs manged to pick one up to top off his excellent catch!

Thanks must go to Saltaire for their very hospitable welcome, including an excellent and kindly put on tea, and a game played in great spirit.

The 2nd XI have been drawn at home to Horsforth CC in the quarter final which will be held on the 24th June