Yorkshire Schools in the second match of their South African Tour were too strong for the Southern Suburbs Development XI at Northerns Goodwood yesterday.

The batting however was again rather fragile perhaps due to a lack of outside practice. At 104-2 (Joe Sayers 30, Neil Longhurst 22) they were well placed but after collapsing to 122-7 they recovered to reach 202-9 in 50 overs thanks to some generosity by the hosts with 34 wides. Top scorer was wicket keeper James Townsend (32) batting at no. 9. Nick Thornicroft 17 not out and James Ward 14 also helped in the late recovery.

Suburbs started well but the Yorkshire spin trio of David Wainwright slow left arm (9, 1, 26, 3), Dan Broadbent off spin (8,1,15,2) and James Ward leg spin (8,1,15,2) kept the hosts under constant pressure finally bowling them out for 115 which included 20 wides - a victory by 87 runs in the 43rd over. The fielding was much improved from the previous match and James Townsend again kept well with two smart stumpings and a catch.

The party now looks forward to the highlight of the tour when they play Western Province Schools under the world famous Newlands floodlights on Tuesday evening.

For immediate release.

For further information please contact Chris Hassell, Chief Executive, YCCC on;

0113 278 7394

(END. 19 February 2025)