HBL OPENING DAY PLAYED IN GREAT SPIRITS IN SCORCHING HEAT

The first day of the much-anticipated HBL was played on Saturday in Ringcommons CC. The sun was shining as the weather reflected the mood of the players: bright and spirited.

The Hundred Ball League encourages the players to take on the game and bat aggressively, and this was very much the case in Ringcommons as fours and sixes were plentiful throughout the day. Each team had plenty of players taking part in the format for the first time and the feedback was overwhelmingly positive. The girls enjoyed the carefree attitude that the format promotes and the innovations they were able to try because the first ball for each batter is free.  

A prominent focus of the HBL is trying to ensure each player gets a chance with both bat and ball, and this resulted in an even-spread of performances across each team on the day. With three teams playing in three fixtures; the Boyne Crusaders, the Liffey Hawks and the Slaney Sharks, there was plenty of time for players to get to know each other and grow their connections within the game.

With the emphasis on playing with freedom and a smile on the girls’ faces, the scoresheets were kept but hardly heeded. Everyone left Ringcommons tired, but looking forward to the second round of matches which take place on July 31^st. For more information on the HBL, please contact isobel.joyce@cricketleinster.ie