Enthusiastic Harrogate keen to extend bright start in Yorkshire League T20

Harrogate reached the Yorkshire League T20 finals day last season before falling to two defeats against Doncaster and Sheffield Collegiate.

They begin their assault on the competition on home turf this weekend, and Ross believes his new-look outfit will give an exhibition of how to play the shortest format – with league rivals Appleby Frodingham and Rotherham coming to town.

“With the way the game is moving and the passion for T20 cricket in our squad, I want to have a real crack at it this year,” Ross said.

“Half the battle in T20 is being an excellent fielding side, keeping the other team down as many runs as possible, and that suits us as a young team.

“It’s a great chance for us to show the way we can play in the T20 format with the young team we have.”

Harrogate currently lead the Yorkshire League standings after an imperious start to Ross’ regime.

And, despite a rocky start after losing the toss against Doncaster Town on Saturday, they produced another impeccable display to collect eight more points. From 134-5, late hitting from Russell White (36) and Tom Geeson-Brown (40no) took Gate up to a competitive 230. That total was never under threat as swing bowler Davies struck five times to bowl Doncaster out for just 102.

Ross said: “It was a great win. The last two weeks have shown the grit and determination the team has.

“Our bowling was just brilliant again, and Sam is hitting his straps. It’s the best I have seen him bowl in the three years I have been at Harrogate.”

Davies left Harrogate under a cloud in 2014 to spend the season at Aire-Wharfe outfit Knaresborough. But he has already taken two five-wicket hauls since returning this season.

His skipper added: “He has shown a real maturity as a cricketer since coming back.

“He is showing that he is a great young talent.”