In a thrilling encounter, Hillhead 2s emerged victorious over East Kilbride 2s by 56 runs, thanks to a well-rounded team performance. The match, played under clear skies, was a showcase of skill, strategy, and determination from both sides.
Hillhead elected to bat first and got off to a steady start with the Bartlett duo leading the charge. Paul was the star of the innings, anchoring the team with a superb 67 off 91 balls including four boundaries and a six, set the tone for Hillhead’s total. Jared provided a solid support role with a composed 23 off 45 balls.
However, the innings saw a quick succession of wickets as Romir was run out for 0 and Jacques fell cheaply. James Thornhill (27) and Arnav Mehta (39) stabilised the innings with crucial contributions. Arnav’s aggressive 39 off 33 balls, was particularly vital in pushing the score forward.
As the innings progressed, Hillhead lost wickets at regular intervals, but a late flurry from Bhavjot, who with an unbeaten 32 off just 18 balls, propelled them to a competitive total of 225/8 in the 40 overs.
Chasing a target of 226, East Kilbride 2s faced an uphill battle from the start. Kesh provided early breakthroughs, dismissing G Rajmohan (10) and A Ahmad (13.) Arnav Mehta was the standout bowler, dismantling the top order with figures of 3/18 from his 8 overs, which included the crucial wickets of RA Anwar and N Malik.
M Osman played a lone hand for East Kilbride, scoring 71* off 88 balls. His resilient innings kept his team in the hunt, but with little support from the other end, the task became increasingly difficult and it was not enough to chase down the target.
Hillhead’s bowlers maintained pressure throughout, with Kesh claiming 3 wickets and Bhavjot taking 1. Their disciplined bowling and sharp fielding restricted East Kilbride to 169/7 in 40 overs, securing a comfortable win for Hillhead.
Hillhead 2s’ comprehensive 56-run victory was built on a foundation of strong batting, led by Paul Bartlett’s 67, and a disciplined bowling performance. Arnav Mehta’s all-round show, with both bat and ball, along with crucial contributions from Bhav and Kesh, ensured Hillhead maintained control throughout the match. This win not only boosts their confidence but also strengthens their position in the league standings.
Man of the match: Arnav Mehta
Video: Paul Bartlett acknowledging the cheer for his 50!
