Horspath Cricket Club News story

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Creed hat-trick sparks Horspath U11s' win

22 Jun 2025

Joseph Creed claimed a brilliant hat-trick in superb figures of 5-3 as Horspath secured their first win of the season in the Oxfordshire Under 11 League with a thrilling four-wicket victory over Cumnor at the Recreation Ground.
Creed bowled all of his victims as the Pool 4 leaders slipped to 24-9 after being put in to bat by Horspath skipper Ibrahim Ali before their last pair took them to 67 all out with their total boosted by 39 extras.
A ruthless display in the field also saw Ayman Ashad take 3-5 and Ahmed Atif pick up 1-3 as the home side used 10 bowlers.
Horspath were made to work for their victory, though, as a nerve-jangling run chase followed with wickets falling at regular intervals and the pressure mounting. 
But Archie Durbin stood firm, showing real composure in the middle order to top score with 16.
Four runs were required off the last over and, after two singles were secured, hat-trick hero Creed delivered once again by smashing a four to the mid-wicket boundary to clinch victory at 70-6 with a ball to spare.. 
Coach Ashad Ali reflected: “This was one of those days that reminds you why you coach. The boys showed grit, teamwork and belief. Joseph’s hat-trick, Ayman and Ahmed’s tight bowling, Archie staying calm under pressure - it was all there. 
"Yes, we need to cut down the extras, but the attitude and energy were spot on. We’ve been talking about sticking together, backing ourselves, and playing brave cricket and the lads really brought that to life. 
"It’s just one win, but it’s a big step forward. I’m proud of every single one of them.”
The team will be looking to make it back-to-back wins when they entertain Wolvercote today (Sunday, June 22).