An overcast day in Ashley welcomed the boys for the semi final vs big club rivals, Didsbury. 

Captain Frankie won the toss as he seemingly always does, and chose to bat. A confident team chat in the changing rooms seemed a distant memory when we were 33/5 within 7 overs. However, the highlight of the season so far will be the partnership between Arslan and Arshman. Chaotic and raw power hitting at its finest, with the odd uncertain run between the wickets! 

Arslan nearly smashed the coach's car window with the biggest 6 I’ve seen hit at this age group. And when on 24, hit another 6 to get his retirement and followed it up with a lovely celebration on the square! An absolute joy to see. Arshman stepping up to this level really impressed too. Well done young man. 

We posted 99 which was not on the cards 45 minutes earlier. 

Confidence was high that we could defend this total. And normally I’d like to think we would. But something just didn’t quite click today. Perhaps pressure of the occasion. Perhaps an uneven, rock hard pitch. Or simply the long season taking its toll. 

Bowlers couldn’t keep their overs tight. And fielders were letting the opposition get easy singles and boundaries. Another lad stepping up to this level was the pick of the bowlers- well done Haseeb. 

This is where, as coaches, we take our pleasure for the time we put it. Watching lads step up and improve over a season. Making this finals day, as well as the Lancs cup finals day in September, is a major achievement and you should all be as proud of your boys as we are. 

I told each player to hold their heads up high leaving Ashley today. But to also think about what they could have done better and train hard between now and the end of the season to bring home silverware

at the next finals day.