2012 saw the first of what is hoped to be the annual U13 ‘six a side’ tournament. The concept of the HomeGuard cup ‘six a side’ competition was conceived by a few enthusiastic members of Bidborough & Speldhurst Cricket Clubs frustrated at the limited number of cricket matches offered to youngsters particularly given the rain which blighted the beginning of the 2012 season. Two clubs but one vision, More cricket for kids.
On the 12th August young crickets battled it out for the honour of becoming the inaugural winners of the HomeGuard Cup. 8 Teams from Lingfield, Plaxtol, Castle Hill, Withyham, Flimwell joined Bidborough (2) & Speldhurst at two venues. Fours teams met at Bidborough & four teams went to Speldhurst. Each venue saw the teams battle it out in 6 a side limited overs round robin format with the teams finishing 1st & 2nd at Speldhurst travel the short distance to Bidborough to battle it out for the HomeGuard Cup semi-final & the teams finishing 3rd & 4th at Bidborough travelled to Speldhurst for the Plate semi-final.
Spectators at both venues were treated to some wonderful entertaining cricket & the BBQ & bars at both venues made for a wonderful atmosphere. There’s no doubt the kids loved showing off their skills with many of the kids asking if the event would be held again next year.
The HomeGuard cup final at Bidborough was fought out between Withyham & Flimwell with Withyham winning. The Plate final at Speldhurst was played out between Bidborough & Plaxtol with Bidborough being victorious. We are pleased to announce that the HomeGuard Cup will be returning again & the date of Sunday 18th August 2013 has been set aside in the fixture card. So why not put the 18th August in your diary & come along & witness first-hand the future generation of cricketers & support the club.
Pat Rossiter