On Friday 12th September Gosfield School’s U17 XI produced a dramatic last-over victory to lift the National U17 Plate trophy, defeating fierce rivals Brentwood School in a gripping, weather-disrupted showdown at Colchester & East Essex Cricket Club, Castle Park.
In a match that showcased brilliant batting, skilled bowling, sharp fielding and increasing levels of tension, Gosfield showed character and composure to claim the national title.
On of Brentwood batsman lit up the early stages with a superb 91 from just 66 balls, setting a challenging to the Gosfield XI. But their attack held firm with some fantastic fielding, dismissing all Brentwood batsmen for 184 in 32.3 overs.
The interval was marked by a disruptive downpour, and with a storm threatening the game, both teams agreed to play under the Duckworth–Lewis method. The opening overs of Gosfield’s reply were tense, with both teams watching the score board intently. A wicket fell with the last delivery before the rain returned, nudging Brentwood ahead by six runs on the D/L calculation. After a 40-minute delay, the target was revised to 78 from 11 overs.
As the weather improved, Gosfield’s batters responded with calm determination. Freddie S anchored the innings with a composed and much needed 38 off 48, allowing Dan G (20 from 16) and captain Josh O (18 from 9) to play more freely. With just two runs needed in the final over, the match ended dramatically on a wide, sealing a memorable win for Gosfield.
The triumph carried extra significance for the squad, who have played together for five years and had twice previously lost to the same Brentwood side. After a challenging start to the summer, this victory marked a fitting finale to the Cricket season and their U17 campaign, setting the stage for next year’s U18 competition.
Watch the match highlights here: https://www.youtube.com/live/LV0GHZCvcqA