As we head into the final weekend of the 2025 cricket season (how quickly has that gone!) its all to play for the Hill 1st and 2nd teams, fingers crossed the weather doesn't intervene.
The 1st team go into their final fixture (at home to Sacriston) in second place in the league, knowing that a win will guarentee them promotion back to the NEPL Premier League at the first time of asking. Only one change to the team who won impressively last week against Philadelphia, with Sam Martin-Jenkins who has returned to the North East for his studies, replacing the unlucky Abu Siddique, who has impressed everyone with his all round game at the top level.
The 2nd team make the long trip to Castle Eden, safe in the knowledge that a mid table position has been secured, which is no mean feat given the very young team they have turned out all season, the experience will hold them all in good stead for 2026 and beyond. On Sunday the 2nd's will be playing for silverware in the second attempt to play the final of the Roseworth Trophy (previous attempt was abandoned 2 weeks ago) at home to Felling, the game will be 20 overs a side with a 3pm start.
The NTCL 3rd team play their last game of the season at Newbrough against title chasing Wylam, unfortunately general availability of players across all Hill teams has taken its toll on the NTCL 3rd team more than most, with relegation certain to DIvision 6 West for next season. Onwards and upwards!
Good luck to all our teams this weekend,
