After a fantastic start to the season, both in regular fixtures and cup competitions, the QEGS 1st XI cricket team faced Huddersfield New College (HNC) in the Regional Semi-Final of the National T20 Cup.

Buoyed by strong form and team spirit — despite exams and revision commitments — the squad headed into the match with high hopes, enjoying the early summer sunshine.

Batting first, HNC’s openers put together a formidable 81-run stand, testing the QEGS bowling attack. The breakthrough came courtesy of Eldridge (3-20), who struck twice in quick succession. Despite QEGS efforts to slow the scoring, HNC capitalised on the final overs, finishing on an imposing 183-3 from their 20 overs.

In response, QEGS battled admirably. A superb 122-run partnership between Hayes (77)* and Whyte (43)* kept hopes alive, but the challenge of chasing a large total proved too great. Credit to HNC for a disciplined bowling performance that ultimately saw QEGS fall 50 runs short.

While this marked the 1st XI’s first defeat of the season, their efforts and achievements so far are to be applauded. The team now looks ahead to their next fixture against Woodhouse Grove on Saturday, with the final part of the season still to play for after half-term.

Well done to the squad on a strong campaign to date.

Photos!