Two young Ripon cricketers have made history as they joined their York teammates in national finals at Lord's.
It was the first time both the city’s Boys’ and Girls’ Hubs reached the MCC Foundation National Hub Competition Finals.
For Charlotte Hale and Bella Simpson, playing such a prestigious match on one of the sport’s biggest stages, renowned as the ‘home of cricket’, was a dream come true.
It was a close-fought contest, with the girls making an unforgettable impression on their debut, narrowly losing to reigning champions, Guildford, by just four runs.
Charlotte, 15, from Green Hammerton, said:
"It was an amazing experience to be able to play with a fantastic team at such an incredible ground.
“Playing on the pitch at Lord's is something I'll remember for ever.”
The boarding student, who also plays for Ouseburn Cricket Club, was fielding in both mid-off and 3rd man positions, and bowled the 19th over, managing to bowl the opposition's captain out.
Whilst batting, Charlotte hit two crucial fours to keep York in sight of the win, but ultimately they lost to the returning champions, Guildford.
Charlotte added:
“Walking through the Long Room in the footsteps of many famous cricketers was a very special moment.
“So was getting a wicket and the two boundaries. Such an amazing day all round.”
It was the first time either of the York teams has qualified for the final, despite coming close in previous years.
After the match, York Girls MCC Foundation Hub captain, Winnie MacKenzie, said:
“It was unlucky to get this far and miss out by only 4 runs, but I’m proud of each and every one of my girls, it’s such an achievement to make it this far and be second in the country.
“We worked incredibly hard and no one gave up throughout the entire competition and everyone has developed as a player.
“We may not have won the game but we won as individuals in the way we carried ourselves and kept striving forwards.
“I’m so grateful for this opportunity and I’m confident we can come back next year and get the win we deserve.”
Charlotte said:
“We wouldn't have had this opportunity without the MCC Foundation, who have supported us throughout the year.”
The programme supports more than 5,500 state-educated young people each year, helping to open cricketing pathways for those who may not otherwise have access to the sport.
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