County News

Aston Cricket Club took the honours in a nail biting encounter against the Northern Visually Impaired Cricket Board (NVICB) in an inspiring afternoon's cricket at Alleyne's High School, Stone.

Aston's '' team comprised many of the junior and ladies team and they were up against a talented and experienced Northern '' side. The visitors were put in to bat and soon showed their experience as the run rate accelerated past 6 an over. Good bowling from Rachael Lefeaver, Sara Dimmock and captain Dawn Jones helped to slow Galloway's momentum but a fine innings from skipper Gary O'Neill and Aston's own county star Sarah Hickman saw the visitors close on 146 from 25 overs. Aston's fielding was excellent throughout with good contributions from Katie Hassell, Emily Astbury, Izzy Mitchell, and ,

In response, Aston began cautiously as Alex Cartlidge and Molly Dean successfully negotiated the early overs. Desperately needing quick runs 'Phoenix' found their ashes hero as Hannah Burrows proceeded to skilfully manoeuvre the special visually impaired ball to all parts of the ground as she made a fantastic half century. Hannah received excellent support from Leanne Dimmock and Charli Langdown but as the tension mounted in the final few overs Galloway's fought back magnificently with some incredible catching and terrific throwing as several 'Phoenix' batters were sent packing. The match came down to the final ball with 3 being needed. Incredibly, a wide was bowled and two extra runs were taken as Aston secured victory in the closest possible manner.

All in all, although Aston '' secured the ashes trophy in the side's first encounter, it is fair to say that cricket was truly the winner! The 'ashes' trophy will now become an annual event between the 2 sides!

Prior to the afternoon's epic encounter many of Aston's young players were able to participate in a demonstration match using specially provided equipment which simulated several of the most common forms of visual impairment. All of the youngsters were amazed at the skills displayed by our visually impaired guests and many found playing cricket to be a huge challenge when one has to rely on many senses other than sight. Hopefully, Aston's youngsters will learn from this experience of inclusion and learning as the club without boundaries seeks to provide cricketing opportunities for all!

Aston's young players received coaching in the art of visually impaired cricket to help them understand how to fully benefit from the experience of playing visually impaired cricket.

This special day of cricket would not have been possible without the kind support of the NVICB and in particular the incredible efforts of Marg Hickman. Thank you from all at Aston CC.