Over 70s to feature in National Cup Final

Leicestershire CCC Over 70’s are preparing to appear in their first final in this year’s 70+ Championship Vase.

Led by Jeff Baxter, the Running Foxes Over 70’s contingent will battle it out against Suffolk CC in the 40-over format, after their semi-final victory over Wiltshire County Seniors CC on Thursday, August 19.

This is the squad's first ever final after coming together just four years ago.

The fixture is scheduled for 12:30pm on Thursday, September 2, and will be played at Kidderminster CC.

This will be the fourth round of the competition for Leicestershire, despite only playing one game.

The first round saw County receive a bye through to the quarterfinals where they were due to meet Hampshire Seniors CC.

Unfortunately, though, Hampshire were forced into conceding the tie which meant that Leicestershire would now face Wiltshire County Seniors CC in the semi-final.

Despite not bowling a ball throughout the competition, the Running Foxes were quick out of the blocks and recorded 262 for two in their innings, with opening batsman Mick Bradshaw carrying his bat with an impressive 122 (110b).

Captain Jeff Baxter was the first wicket to fall, for 11 (28b), leaving County on 22 for one. A useful innings from Mike Brooks followed (63, 63b) before his wicket fell via run out.

John Newbury’s 52 from 39 balls, alongside Bradshaw then saw the 40 overs to a close on 263 for two.

The bowlers then responded with a controlled, re-calculated 32 overs in which no Wiltshire batsman recorded over 50 runs.

Phil Palfreyman and Mike Brooks both impressed with the ball, both recording identical figures of 8-0-33-1.

County recorded a 65-run semi-final victory to set up the final clash against Suffolk, after Wiltshire responded with 169 for six.

Leicestershire captain and wicketkeeper batsman, Jeff Baxter said: “We have had a very good season this year and have triumphed in some very close games.

"All of the lads have done really well and we are all geared up for the final tomorrow, and are all expectant that we can be better than Suffolk on the day.

"We are definitely backing ourselves to win and are looking forward to a good day."

We all at Leicestershire CCC wish our Over 70's the very best of luck for their final. Bring the trophy home!