IAPS National Finals Day in York was simply fantastic for the Bedford Prep School 1st XI, who were crowned the new U13 National Champions.
Bedford Prep started Finals Day with an eight-wicket win thanks to a successful run chase of 85 over Great Walstead School in the morning’s semi-final. The boys’ victory set up a competitive final against Farleigh School.
While Bedford Prep lost the toss and was put into bat, they built a solid total of 174-8 from 25 overs. Fine contributions from Joshua Edmundson (37), Ollie Jackson (35*) and a quick and important 21 from Toby Hudson laid down the run target to chase down. In reply, Farleigh came out with intent and, whilst staying with the run rate, Bedford Prep continued to take key wickets at crucial points with fine bowling from Gus Wilson, Leo Tapp, Toby Hudson, Isaac Vincent-Emery and Kavin Krishnaruban. The tense, high-scoring game came down to the final over when a run out by Harry Hodgson secured Bedford Prep a ten-run victory.
Mr Lincoln commented after the win, “My congratulations go to all the boys on the win, which is just reward for all the hard work that began back in September when the boys prepared for the tour to South Africa. Most pleasing is that the tournament was a genuine team effort, with all boys contributing to the win.
The Team: Tom Ulvert (captain), Isaac Vincent-Emery (vice-captain), Harry Hodgson, Toby Hudson, Joshua Edmundson, Leo Tapp, Ollie Jackson, Ollie Bodfield, Gus Wilson, Harry Spencer, Harry Mullan, Kavin Krishnaruban
