HARLOW CC U16 won the toss and elected to bat first on a warm afternoon, posting a challenging total of 228-5 from their 40 overs thanks largely to an outstanding century from Harrison Wren.

After an early wicket at 78, Wren anchored the innings superbly, compiling 105 from 108 balls, including 12 fours and a six. He was well supported by Billy Clark (43) and Zac Burns (28) as Harlow built a strong platform. Late contributions from Freddy Crook (16) and Lawrence Forde (9 not out) ensured the home side finished strongly.

Bishop’s Stortford’s bowlers stuck to their task well despite the difficult conditions. Harry Frans (2-43) and Will Richardson (1-44) were the most successful bowlers, while Luca Livermore also picked up a wicket.

Chasing 229 for victory, Bishop’s Stortford made a positive start through Ciaran Wilson and Rees Green, who shared a century opening partnership. Green was the standout performer, blasting 65 from just 46 balls, striking 14 boundaries and putting the Harlow attack under pressure. Wilson contributed a composed 35, helping the visitors reach 100 before the first wicket fell.

Harlow fought back strongly as wickets began to tumble. Zac Burns produced a superb spell, claiming 5-56 from his 8 overs, removing several key batsmen and dragging his side back into the contest. Lawrence Forde (2-40) and Harrison Wren (1-15) also chipped in as Bishop’s Stortford slipped from a commanding position into a tense finish.

However, valuable middle-order contributions from Lewis Greenhill (25) and Will Richardson (22) proved crucial, while the lower order held their nerve as the match went down to the wire.

With Harlow sensing victory and the game hanging in the balance, Bishop’s Stortford’s tailenders showed tremendous composure to edge over the line, reaching 229-9 in 36.3 overs and securing a dramatic one-wicket victory.

The match was a fantastic advertisement for youth cricket down at Harlow cc featuring a Harrison wren century, and a Zac Burns 5 wicket hall, and mention goes to billy Clark, Lawrence forde and Freddy crook for contributing with both bat and ball. It showed the tremendous talent coming from at Harlow cc and should be excited for the future ahead.