As the bonfire blazed and fireworks lit up the night outside, the Falkland U11 Pink Army created fireworks of their own indoors at the Dummer Cricket Centre. With five players making their indoor debuts, any early nerves were quickly replaced by enthusiasm and teamwork.

Captain Imogen led confidently from the front. Bella-Rose opened the bowling with pace and precision, striking early with a wicket in her very first over. Her lively delivery also left wicketkeeper Poppy with an unexpected birthday memento — a seam mark on her chin after bravely stopping a sharp ball.

The team fielded brilliantly throughout, with Amber taking a superb catch and maintaining pressure with her accurate bowling. Alex, on debut, made an immediate impact by taking a wicket with her first ball — a dream start to her indoor cricket career.

As the innings progressed, the girls grew in confidence. Quick thinking and excellent teamwork led to several sharp run outs, while further wickets came from Bella, Poppy, and Imogen, each clean-bowling their opponents. With Basingstoke nine wickets down, Darcey bowled with increasing confidence to close out the innings in style.

Next came the batting. Bella-Rose and Alex opened confidently, running quick singles and keeping the scoreboard moving. Alex struck the boundary wall for a six with a powerful shot, and the pair closed their four overs at 36 for 2. Poppy and Amber then added a composed partnership, contributing 28 runs for the loss of just one wicket with some elegant and measured stroke play. Darcey and Imogen rounded off the innings smartly, adding another 18 valuable runs while keeping wickets largely intact.

A superb all-round team performance from start to finish — full of energy, skill, and growing confidence.

A big thank you to all the parents for their help and support, and to Peter for umpiring. The team’s spirit and enthusiasm promise an exciting season ahead. Well done, girls — you should all be very proud of your achievements!

Report: Shaun Eynon