Yorkshire come out on top!
Four teams competed at Derby on Sunday - two counties, Yorkshire and Lancashire, and two regions, Midlands and South. They all played each other in a league format, the top two meeting in a Grand Final.
Yorkshire bested Lancashire and the South in the group stage but lost to the Midlands, leaving them 2nd, behind the Midlands, who won all of their games.
Then Yorkshire met and beat the Midlands in the final.
Yorkshire were very well led by James O’Connor (Acomb CC), a natural and diligent leader who was also Yorkshire's top run-maker, whilst Edward Denton (New Farnley CC) was a leading player and outstanding as stand-in wicket keeper. John Kenward (‘on loan’ from Derbyshire) bowled really well to become the leading wicket taker on the day.
Young Jamie Dillon (Sutton-on-Hull CC) showed growing confidence with bat and ball and was also an important player in the victory, being Yorkshire's second highest wicket taker.
But everyone played well including three Bradfordians, vice/captain Mohammed Sufyaan, second highest scorer Mohammed Owais and all-rounder Bilal Ahmed.
One hearing player was allowed and grateful thanks go to Edward’s dad, Ian (Pudsey SL CC) for doing a fine job as the eighth player. The team's appreciation also goes to Ben Sutton (South) who came on as a substitute fielder for Ian in the final, following an injury.
A number of Yorkshire players were not available for this event but the young team rose to the challenge and came out on top. Well done!
Finally, thanks go to Yorkshire Cricket Board staff for their support to enter this competition, England Cricket Association for the Deaf for organising the day, and Willow Sports Centre, Derby, for hosting the competition.
A huge well done to everyone involved from all at Yorkshire Cricket!