Inter Counties

Lancashire U13s do themselves proud

After a scintillating win in Stage 1 of the Inter-counties competition, expectations of the Lancashire U13 team were high. However, it was also clear that competition in Stage 2 was going to be very tough with Yorkshire, Northumbria and local friends from Cheshire joining the young hopefuls in the group. But on the plus side, all eligible players were available for selection hence affording the strongest possible team.

Despite fantastic performances in stage 1 from Carlton Oldham and Nick Cooper, two of Lancashires' most fiery and competitive players, they had to make way for Dan Zaidi and Henry Beach. Consistency between the stages was provided by Hatim Tornish, Rahul Bansal and Daniel Seaman-Harris at nos 1, 2 and 3 respectively. Lewis Rigby, who also played in stage 1, survived a difficult selection decision and made the team to share the 5th playing spot with Henry.

It was therefore with this new look team that the Lancashire 'Lights' arrived at Warrington Sports Club on a bitterly cold morning on 1 Feb 09 to do battle. It is always good to start with a nice and easy match. So roll on Yorkshire!

Daniel S-H playing at no 3 started brightly but sadly lost the first game. However, he then won the next 2 to lead. Yorkshire was not done and came back to take the next game. Dan then showed the benefit of the training and coaching to take the final game to win the match 3-2; 9-11, 11-5, 11-4, 7-11, 11-9. Although this was just the sort of start Lancashire wanted, it could not be maintained by Hatim who had been suffering from a stomach bug throughout the week (losing 3-0; 1-11, 6-11, 9-11), Rahul (losing 3-0; 6-11; 4-11; 6-11), Dan Z (losing 3-1; 8-11, 11-8, 2-11, 6-11) and Henry (losing 3-1, 8-11, 11-8, 11-13, 8-11). The scores of course did not tell the full story - with the Lancashire lads showing true grit and determination with all playing to their full capability. Credit goes to Yorkshire who were just too good on the day.

The second match, against Northumbria, was a different story. Having played them recently during stage 1 Lancashire knew what to expect. It was not going to be easy and the players had to play well to win. Daniel S-H did not disappoint the crowd (yes, there was a crowd at this competition comprising mostly of blurry eyed parents) with another 5 setter. At least he won again - 8-11, 10-12, 11-5, 11-3, 12-10 coming back to win from 2-0 down. Henry made way for Lewis at no 5 (won 3-0; 11-7, 12-10, 11-9) who unfortunately then had a groin strain. He says it was the squash! Dan Z (won 3-0; 11-6, 11-7, 11-7) and Rahul (won 3-0; 11-5, 11-7, 12-10) both came through their games quite comfortably. Hatim was just not himself and lost 3-0; 7-11, 6-11, 11-13. His mum was quick to point out that it was probably the stomach bug (though not something he had eaten) and maybe he had not recovered yet. Didn't for one moment think it was something he had eaten but get your point Shirley! 4-1 overall - a good victory and some well earned points on the board.

The last match was against local rivals and friends, Cheshire. Whilst Daniel S-H took his time disposing his opponent 3-0; 11-13, 11-7, 11-4 Dan Z and Henry made light work of their game winning comfortably. Henry won 3-0; 11-7, 12-10, 11-9 whilst devastating Dan Z was in a bit of a hurry finishing off his opponent 3-0; 11-8; 11-4, 11-4 in double quick time. Hatim then showed some of his old self but was visibly shaken by some of the Cheshire supporters antics. However, he was able to re-focus on his game to win 3-1; 11-6; 11-13, 11-9, 11-3. By the time Rahul took to court the round was won and the only question was if Rahul could maintain his concentration to win the round 5-0. It didn't take long to get the answer - Rahul won 3-0; 11-8, 11-8, 11-9.

Despite finishing second, the Lancashire team showed good spirit at the end and were able to congratulate themselves on a job well done. Throughout the day the players supported each other and showed camaraderie that was infectious. There seemed to be genuine disappointed amongst the parents that the team may not be part of the finals weekend. At this point you almost feel one of those BAFTA winners rambling and incoherent speeches coming along. But seriously, huge thanks go to all the parents who spared their Sunday to bring the players to Warrington and supported the team throughout the day. But the biggest thank you goes to the six players who represented Lancashire on the day - their conduct was exemplary and their play in true spirit of sportsmanship. They can be truly proud of their achievement. Well done, boys.