It was a brilliant start to the season for Mitcham u14s as they put Old Ruts to the sword in chilly conditions at Poplar Road.

New captain Maywon had an evening to remember. Winning the toss for the visitors, he built a steady foundation with Zubair, steering the boys to 54-0 after 10 overs. Then Maywon exploded into life, with 32 runs in a 9-ball spell, as he reached his first ever half century for the club. The opening partnership was eventually worth an incredible 158 until the captain was eventually clean bowled by Felix (2-22) in the final over. His 74 in 44 balls included 12-fours, and 3-sixes. Great innings.

Zubair also made his first 50 as he carried his bat for an excellent 53*. Well played.

In reply Old Ruts looked in good shape as they matched the first half of Mitcham's innings reaching 57-1 after 10 overs. But they couldn't build on their start, as scoring become tricky in the gathering gloom. The impressive Charlie (53) top scored in spite of being hit on the foot early in his innings.

Hammad (1-26) impressed in the field with a great catch as well as taking the key wicket of Charlie. Mitcham's young debutants Janardhan (1-2), Roy, Ibtisam, Ayaan and Abiram bowled with great accuracy conceding just 45 in their 8 overs.

The winning margin of 46 runs was a fair reflection of the browncaps super performance.

Next up is Cheam in the cup. (18 May)

The under12s also started with a win, as sadly Beddington couldn't field a team and conceded the game.