On a bright and breezy day our U11B mixed cricket team excitedly made their return to school fixtures with a cross town trip to Colinton to play Merchiston Castle. Daniel won the toss and elected to field, opting to back his bowlers on a green surface. Our opening attack of Kit and Izzy worked beautifully in tandem, with Kit removing their opener after consistent bowling from his partner. After this early success Merchiston rallied and picked up the pace of their innings, scoring freely and were looking to build a big score. That was until the skipper, rather like Joe Root in India, brought himself into the attack and began to make things happen. An economical first three balls built some pressure, and with his next ball debutant Rufus took a blinding catch to make the break through. This galvanised the Cargilfield bowlers with Miranda, Bella and Orhan all contributing well with the ball, keeping the scoring to a minimum. Death bowling is an art, thankfully our artists came in the form of Kit and Jess, both bowled magnificently with the latter taking a wicket maiden to restrict Merchiston to 154.

There is no doubt Cargilfield brought the momentum and confidence from the field into their batting. Archie (18) and Jess (10) opened up and they got the team off to a flyer, like Roy and Bairstow they complimented each other superbly and scored 28 off three overs. More good batting followed with some excellent running between the wickets from Kit and Izzy. Orhan and Rufus entered the fray with broad smiles, powerful stroke play and an ability to put the fielders under pressure with their running. Bella and Miranda faced the best of the Merchiston attack and picked off singles nicely, showing a real maturity and calmness to their batting. With victory in touching distance, the skipper steadily approached the winning target and Paddy played a couple of flamboyant strokes to bring the side home.

A brilliant result, with Jessica winning Player of the Match for her all-round effort with bat and ball. However, the team performance was most pleasing, with constant encouragement and a real sense of fun, you can all be very proud.