Selby Cricket Club's Under 11 side booked their place in the next round of the cup with a composed five-wicket victory over Oulton on a warm summer evening, successfully chasing down the target of 64 with 9.2 overs to spare.

Having been asked to bowl first, Selby’s young attack struck early and often. The tone was set by Ben Sherwood, whose remarkable first over produced three wickets, including two clean bowls and a sharp return catch, leaving Oulton in early trouble at 3 for 3. Oulton showed great determination to rebuild, with contributions from several players in the middle order helping them edge their way to 63 for 9 from their allotted 20 overs.

J Banks anchored the Oulton innings with a measured knock and was supported by a dogged partnership involving A Austin and C Elliott. However, Selby's bowlers remained disciplined throughout, with wickets shared around and notable efforts from George Middleton, Lewis Nicholson, Edward McLoughlin, and Cameron Croad keeping the run rate in check. The fielding was energetic and supportive, capping off a well-rounded performance with the ball.

Chasing 64 for victory, Selby’s openers came out with positive intent. Ben Sherwood got the innings rolling with a stylish 12, including a fine boundary, before falling victim to a run out. At the other end, Spencer Guy played a composed and classy innings, accumulating runs with intelligent placement and three consecutive boundaries in one over to seize control of the chase, having retired at 35 Spencer handed over the reins to his teammates in the hope that they could see the team to victory.

Despite a late flurry of wickets that briefly slowed progress, including a double strike by Oulton's C Elliott, Selby kept their composure. Ethan Prosser added useful runs in the middle order before Noah Irving guided the side home by hitting the ball to the boundary for four, sealing victory in the 11th over.

Oulton deserve credit for their resilience in the field, sticking to their task and celebrating their breakthroughs with real spirit, but Selby’s confident start with the bat gave them a platform they never looked like relinquishing.

This was Selby Under 11s' first match report of the season—and it was worth the wait. The side showed impressive teamwork, focus, and maturity throughout the game, and can take plenty of confidence into the next round of the cup.