Eastern Cape – Union High School, Graaff Reinet, junior cricket teams produced a series of outstanding performances against Laer Volkskool. They combined individual brilliance with commendable teamwork to secure three impressive victories across the age groups.
The u-13A side
The U13A side delivered a commanding all-round display to claim a convincing 160-run victory. After electing to bat first, Union amassed an imposing 209/5 in 20 overs. They were spearheaded by a magnificent century from Edwin Holmes, who blasted 100 runs from just 50 deliveries. Grant Murray supported him well. His excellent 52 off 41 balls helped lay the foundation for a formidable total.
Union’s bowlers then completed the job in style, dismissing Volkskool for just 49 runs. Murray capped a superb all-round performance by claiming three wickets, while Bhotothe Mussa added two wickets as the hosts wrapped up an emphatic victory. The match will be particularly memorable for Holmes, whose superb century highlighted the team’s exceptional effort.
The u-11A team
The U11A team faced a tighter contest, showing admirable determination despite ultimately falling 16 runs short. Asked to field first, Union restricted Volkskool to 92/9 in 20 overs, thanks largely to the efforts of Lucko Pehlo (2/14) and Mark Copeman (2/3), who led the bowling attack with distinction.
In reply, Liam Raath displayed patience and resilience at the crease, contributing a valuable 27 off 44 balls. Union finished on 76/9, and while the result did not go their way, the team produced several encouraging performances that provide a strong platform for future matches.
The U11B side enjoyed a memorable afternoon, securing a well-earned five-wicket victory after an outstanding bowling performance. Volkskool were bundled out for just 49 runs, with Suko Mkona producing a remarkable spell of 6/9 from four overs. He received excellent support from Max Strydom, who delivered an equally economical performance to claim 3/6 in three overs.
Chasing a modest target, Union raced to 51/5 in just 8.1 overs, with Andre Putter anchoring the innings with a confident unbeaten 27 from 22 balls. It was a disciplined and clinical display that highlighted the team’s growing confidence and skill.
The U13B team
The U13B team continued their impressive run of form by recording a second consecutive victory over Volkskool. Having restricted their opponents to 84 runs in 20 overs, Union’s bowlers shared the wickets and were supported by sharp fielding throughout the innings.
The chase began nervously with a few early setbacks, but Simo Mcinga and Yolo Vutula responded superbly under pressure. The pair combined for an unbeaten 69-run partnership, guiding Union to a comfortable seven-wicket victory. Mcinga finished on 34 not out, while Vutula contributed a valuable 22 not out, demonstrating composure and maturity to steer their side home.
Union’s performances across all four teams reflected not only individual excellence but also the teamwork, determination and sportsmanship that continue to characterise the school’s cricket programme. Congratulations to all the players and coaches on a highly successful set of fixtures against Volkskool.
https://www.unionschools.co.za/
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