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Cricket

In the European Under 19 Championships yesterday (Wednesday), a weakened Isle of Man lost to Jersey. Disaster struck the side before the game even started. First Steve Slack was ruled out with an arm injury and then during the warm-up Duncan Miller suffered a knee injury and couldn't play.

So the Island took the field with the only eleven fit players from their thirteen man squad! But it got even worse. Batting first opener Andrew Turner went with the total on eight and skipper Ricky Kniveton was dismissed the next ball.

The team made a spirited rally with Max Stokoe and Danny Kniveton taking the total to 63 before Max was caught for 22. Then both Danny and Luke Lacey hit 25 and the tail wagged to good effect. Kane Dooley made 15, Seb Hopkins 17 and Ollie Swales 10. Against top class opposition the side did well to reach 169.

However the Manx then found Jersey batsman Sam de la Haye in majestic form. He dominated the home reply with a brilliant 89 not out. Aided by Ed Farley who was undefeated on 39, Jersey won the game by 9 wickets. The wicket to fall came with the score on 99 when Luke Lacey bowled Tom Wherry for 29.

Jersey looked a class outfit and the Island youngsters are now on a steep learning curve at this level. Today (Thursday) they play their final game against Gurnsey - another very tough contest is in prospect!!