Having won all 10 group-stage matches, RCC were drawn against Knebworth in the quarter-finals at Park Road last week. The visitors were restricted to 105 from their 20 overs thanks to another disciplined bowling display, with William taking two crucial wickets. Fine batting from Reevan (25 retired out) and Arjan, who smashed 15, saw RCC home with two overs remaining and three wickets in hand.

That victory led to a trip to Sawbridgeworth the morning after England's win over Norway (and the coaches' 50th birthday!), with an early 9:30am departure for the 11:00am semi-final against Hertford. It proved well worth the journey.

Batting first, the U11s posted 113 for 3 from their 20 overs, with Charlie making 17 and Leo retiring on 25 to lead the way. The innings was boosted by 46 extras, compared with just 19 conceded by RCC – a difference that ultimately proved crucial.

The bowling attack then took centre stage. Krish finished with 2 for 7, Josh produced a superb spell of 3 for 12, Jayren claimed 1 for 5 from 2.1 overs, and Reevan picked up two wickets in a single over. Hertford were bowled out for 96 in the 19th over. With 10 different bowlers used, it was another outstanding team performance, while a special mention goes to Leo for his superb one-handed diving catch, which sparked celebrations as the whole team mobbed him.

The final got underway at 5:45pm against local rivals West Herts, who posted 140 from their 20 overs. Krish (2 for 13) and Leo (2 for 15) were the pick of the RCC bowlers.

The chase started brilliantly, with Reevan and Druv both retiring on 25, leaving RCC 70 without loss at the halfway stage and firmly in control. The game turned at that point, however, as West Herts' talented spinner claimed 4 for 7 to swing the momentum. RCC eventually finished on 99 all out.

There is so much for this group to be proud of. To push the eventual county champions so close is a fantastic achievement and reflects what a genuine team they have become. They continue to improve, develop and play the game in exactly the right spirit.

The improvement in their batting especially this season is clear for everyone to see and Aman and the coaching group take massive credit. We’ve had Christian (over 250 wickets for RCC) drilling them on the bowling side for 3 years. The fielding has been relentlessly worked on, and now the batting has caught up too. It's exciting to think how this group will continue to develop over the coming seasons.

An 8:30pm finish meant a well-earned trip to the Golden Arches for many on the journey home. While it was silver medals this time, every single member of this U11 squad should be incredibly proud. They have enjoyed a fantastic season and have established themselves as one of the very best teams in Hertfordshire.