The hottest day in May since the 1940s saw our U9s travel south of the river to Sale in their first cup match of the season. Winning the toss for the first time this season, captain Alfie Turner stuck the home side in, which after recent wet weather had more than a hint of green on it. From the onset Didsbury were once again, sharp and disciplined in the field which combined with a tight line and length from the bowlers made Sale’s batters struggle throughout. Sale lost wickets regularly, through a combination of good catching and a series of circus style run outs, which Mr Kite would have been pleased with. By the close the home side had only managed to muster 227. McCall exacting as ever set his side a target of 300, they weren’t to disappoint. The opening pair of Ethan, who was extremely strong off his legs and Seb overhauled Sale’s total in the first four overs. After that, the runs simply accumulated, though in the end it could have been more due to some rather kamikaze running between the wickets. Ralph and Jude, both debutants were impressive, whilst Seb and Seamus continue to impress. By the time the final pair of Zac and Alfie came out the game had come and gone like a number 42 bus and all that was left was a bit of batting practice, which Amy, Sale’s outstanding player provided. However, with Zac sweeping tidily for four and Alfie unfurling a Vaughan-esque cover drive Didsbury kept McCall to his word and passed the 300 with barely an intake of breath. Job done.