WARWICKSHIRE’S under-18’s claimed national glory just days after the club’s under-14 side triumphed in a national cup final.
The Bears’ under-18’s side beat Somerset by 48 runs at Kibworth Cricket Club with the Warwickshire side featuring several teenagers with senior squad experience.
Warwickshire posted 262 from their 48.4 overs before bowling out their opponents for 214 as George Maddy top scored with 77 while Amir Khan (46), Kai Smith (28), Ben Blakemore (26) and Oliver Dandy (24) all contributed to the total.
With the ball Umar Shaikh (2-33), Sam Atkinson (2-49), Ed Batchelor (2-34) and Levi Gekis (2-45) were all among the wickets.
That came after the club’s under-14’s side beat Essex by six wickets to win their national title having progressed through the group and knockout stages unbeaten.
Warwickshire high performance manager, Paul Greetham, said: “To have not one, but two national champions in our age groups is a fantastic achievement and illustrates the strength of our youth ranks.
“Knockout cricket is incredibly challenging, yet both sides played with real determination and high quality throughout their competitions.
“This trophy is a testament to the hard work they’ve put in; the temperament they’ve shown is pleasing and I’m sure that will stand them in good stead.
“A number of these players have featured in the first and second team environment and I know those experiences have helped this group perform so well under pressure.”
Warwickshire sport director, Gavin Larsen, added: “This is a special moment for the club and I want to congratulate Paul, his staff and the players.
“I’ve taken a big interest in the academy and how that structure brings players through the pathway. I believe it’s vitally important to have a wide base at the bottom of the talent pyramid and, seeing these results and performances, I’m enthused.”
