BURGHILL, Tillington & Weobley Cricket Club were given a boost in numbers and were able to field a ‘B’ indoor team this year, made up of young Afghan asylum seekers.  

The team had an hour to practice before mixing it with some of Herefordshire’s more established players.

First up they faced the Burghill ‘A’ team who are league and cup winners.  

The Birghill regulars were given a shock from the new opposition and it was difficult for the batsmen to get bat on ball, much less score any runs.

Once they were out of the attack, runs were easier to come by and the ‘A’ team finished on 104, which was 40 odd runs below a par score.

Captain Jake Kinderman commented the young Afghans were the best attack he had faced indoors in recent years.

However, the Burghill ‘B’ side’s batting was not as good as their bowling. The youngsters fell short by 26 runs, but not before giving the ‘A’ team a scare.

In their second game, the Burghill ‘B’ side lost by 36 runs to beaten cup finalist Goodrich, despite restricting their opponents to a score of 120.

It was a tough baptism of fire for the young side and they will have easier games as the weeks go by.

The Burgs have secured a three-year sponsorship deal with PAF Hereford Ltd.  The package comprises naming rights to the ground, front of shirts, banner, and live streaming sponsorships.

Steve de Souza, BTWCC chairman said: "We are thrilled to be working in partnership with PAF.  We share the same values of equality, diversity, and inclusion for all.  The generosity of PAF is quite humbling.  We are very grateful for their continued support.”

Ian Jordan, managing director added: "We are passionate about supporting grassroots sport in the county.  We also sponsor Hereford Lions girls football team and Tupsley Girls FC. 

“We are a community focused company and appreciate the value we can bring and the satisfaction we get from being part of the community.”