Carlton CC Under 15s created history at Lord’s last Saturday, as they defeated Banstead (Surrey) by eight runs to secure the ECB Vitality Under 15 club cup.
The Arrows had already created history by becoming the first Scottish junior side to play at the Home of Cricket, but went one step further by lifting the trophy.
Carlton saw off eight opponents to reach the showpiece final, triumphing in the Scottish region with a victory over Gordonians in the final, before going on to win the ‘North’ region by defeating Derbyshire side Eckington at York CC.
That set up a National Semi-Final meeting with Leamington CC at Elsecar, with a 16 run win sealing their place in the Lord’s final, where they enjoyed a memorable day.
After winning the toss and electing to bat, Carlton posted 107-7, going on to defend their total as Banstead were restricted to 99-5.
Carlton Under 15s Head Coach Charles Stronach said: “It was a special, special day for everyone at the club, from the moment we walked through the Grace Gates.
“For the boys to sit in the same seats that Steve Smith, Sachin Tendulkar, Shane Warne or even Donald Bradman had sat was incredible, and the smile’s on their faces told the story!
“We knew the game itself was never going to be easy, and Banstead bowled really well to keep to us 107.
“Throughout this whole journey, we’ve shown incredible spirit and determination to win games of cricket from difficult positions, and this was no different, and it was incredible to come out on top with such a tense finish.
“It was so special to get over the line and become National Champions, and to be representing Scotland at the Home of Cricket.
“The ECB had said at the outset that they wanted to give us the full Lord’s experience and that is exactly what it felt like we had been given. The team felt like superstars the whole time they were there.
“It was a day none of us will ever forget.”
