Reports of one or two acrimonious games at the lower level of the Cumbria League have rather troubled younger players and their parents.
So it was uplifting and timely to hear high praise for an extremely sporting contest at Threlkeld over the weekend.
Much bonhomie and a proper sporting spirit were in evident at Threlkeld where Whitehaven thirds were the visitors.
It was a brilliant game throughout, extremely close and even when it was really tight at the finish, the sportsmanship on both sides was a pleasure to see.
The two clubs have always had a good relationship and this was clear to see on this occasion.
It was especially rewarding that both sides have a crop of young, talented cricketers who are playing the game in the right manner.
In this very tight game Whitehaven batted first and scored 140 with newcomer Will Allen smashing 53 in 24 balls, including a huge six over the car park. He hit five sixes and four fours.
He was ably supported by Adam McGarry with 38 while Rory Cowper (4-36) and Malcolm Stillwell (3-33) bowled well for the hosts.
In reply Jamie Lihou retired on 50 and the ever dependable John Raven chipped in with 29.
In games like this young players learn a lot and in this case it was 16-year-old Harley Bowness who kept his nerve in the final over to take the final wicket and earn Whitehaven the win by one run.
It was a cracking game played in the correct manner – exactly how teams should conduct themselves.
