In the Halifax Cricket League Premier Division, a surprising upset took place at Luddendenfoot, where the home team secured a thrilling victory by three wickets against the high-flying Illingworth St Mary’s. St Mary’s batting lineup struggled early on, finding themselves at 31-4. However, Ben Robertshaw’s valiant effort (54) led to a recovery, and they managed to close at 175 all out. Tom Stott played a crucial role, taking three of the early wickets and finishing with impressive figures of 4-32.
Luddendenfoot’s reply seemed unpromising at 107-7, but the heroes of the day, Thomas Hosker (63 not out) and Gareth Hall (34 not out), forged an unbeaten eighth-wicket partnership of 72 runs, propelling their team to victory with 179-7. This unexpected win dealt a significant blow to Illingworth St Mary’s championship aspirations.
Meanwhile, at Mytholmroyd, the home team endured a nightmare as they were bowled out for a paltry 34 runs. Visitors Sowerby Bridge claimed a valuable victory with four wickets lost, ending at 37-4. Tom Belfield was the star of the show, putting up outstanding figures of 7 wickets for just 12 runs in his 12.1 overs.
At Grassy Bottom, the league leaders Thornton had a fantastic afternoon, reaching an imposing 300-9 in a match shortened to 42 overs. The Hutchinsons, Josh and Nikki, were instrumental in this feat, with Josh smashing a quickfire 109 off just 51 balls and Nikki adding 88 runs off 109 balls. Edward Denham’s bowling effort (5-63) stood out despite the challenging circumstances. However, the joy for Thornton turned to frustration as the match was abandoned due to rain with Triangle struggling at 158-6 after 32 overs. Carl Fletcher’s unbeaten 73 provided resistance for the home team.
Blackley continued its positive streak, securing its third consecutive victory, this time against Bradshaw at Lindley Road. Posting 206-6, Blackley’s George Barton top-scored with 42, and multiple contributors added 25 runs or more. Bradshaw’s chase faltered, and they closed at 142 all out, with only Matthew Crowther (43) showing any resistance. Liam Senior’s bowling efforts (4-38) contributed to Blackley’s successful revival.
At SBCI, Copley struggled with their batting, taking 45 overs to reach a modest 124-9. However, it proved to be enough as SBCI was bowled out for 110, giving Copley a hard-fought victory. In the match at Oxenhope, visitors Booth scored 190-7, but rain interrupted the game with the home team at 52-4, leading to its abandonment.
