WEEKE Primary School’s cricket team has emerged victorious in the highly competitive Winchester and North Eastleigh Dynamos Cricket Tournament, showcasing remarkable resilience and skill on a cloudy spring day.

Coached by Kim Roberts, the team comprised Scott, Fraser, Harry, Alex, Noah, Barnaby, Billy, Charlie, and James. These young cricketers faced stiff competition, with twenty-four primary schools divided into six leagues of four teams. The standard of play was exceptionally high, setting the stage for an exhilarating tournament.

Weeke’s journey began with a narrow loss to Merdon Junior in their first league match. This early setback served as a wake-up call for the team, highlighting the need to elevate their performance to stay in contention for the trophy. Determined to make a comeback, Weeke focused on scoring as many runs as possible, aiming for a top-two finish in average runs to secure a quarter-final spot.

Thanks to some extraordinary batting, particularly from Noah and Scott who hit multiple sixes, Weeke won their next two league games with impressive scores. This stellar performance ensured their qualification for the quarter-finals, where they faced Merdon Junior once more. Seizing the opportunity for redemption, Weeke clinched a victory, advancing to the semi-finals.

In the semi-finals, Weeke went up against Twyford St Mary’s C of E Primary School, coached by former Hampshire cricket professional James ‘Jimmy’ Adams. The match was tightly contested, but Weeke’s batsmen delivered under pressure, propelling the team to the final.

The final saw Weeke face off against the formidable Knightwood, a team that had dominated the tournament in recent years. Batting first, Weeke encountered strong resistance from Knightwood’s bowlers, managing a modest total. A brilliant bowling and fielding effort was crucial, and the Weeke team rose to the challenge. Tight fielding and energetic communication led to a flurry of wickets in the closing overs, securing Weeke’s triumphant victory.

This outstanding achievement has earned Weeke Primary School the opportunity to play at the prestigious Utilita Bowl. Here, on June 25, they will compete against other district winners for the chance to be crowned Hampshire champions. This venue, which will also host matches for the Southern Brave, Hampshire Hawks, and both England’s men’s and women’s teams this summer, promises an unforgettable experience for the Weeke team.