In a match that had everything—rain, momentum swings, and a final-over finish—Aldridge Cricket Club were crowned Fred Lowe Trophy champions after a dramatic victory over league leaders Tamworth at Alrewas Cricket Club.

With a green pitch and showers looming, Aldridge elected to bowl first—and struck early. Opening pair Gaur and Andrews took pace off the ball to restrict scoring and apply early pressure. By the 11th over, Tamworth had stumbled to 46 for 4.

A battling 61-run fifth-wicket stand revived Tamworth’s hopes, but Aldridge hit back again through standout spells from Painter (2 for 18) and Wood (3 for 15). Backed by superb fielding despite several heavy downpours, Aldridge kept Tamworth to a modest 123 for 8.
The chase was anything but straightforward. Tamworth’s third XI opener T. Read tore through the Aldridge top order, reducing them to 23 for 4 and leaving the game hanging in the balance.

Then came a vital 53-run partnership between E. Andrews and L. Connell, who soaked up the pressure and steadied the innings. With seven overs remaining, Aldridge still needed 48 runs—just as the rain began to fall again.

Wickets tumbled, but determined contributions from Gibbard (12) and Bradshaw (11) kept the chase alive. With only one wicket remaining and 7 runs required off the final four balls, it was down to Aldritt and Lamburn.

As Aldritt senior turned away in nervous anticipation, Aldritt junior held his nerve, scampering three off two deliveries. That left Lamburn with the task—and he delivered, crashing the penultimate ball through mid-off for the winning boundary.

Celebrations erupted on the boundary. The rain was replaced by tears of joy on Lamburn’s mother’s face as the Aldridge players sprinted onto the field—embracing their heroes and graciously consoling their opponents.

After a spirited speech from the match umpire, captain Leon Painter held the Fred Lowe Trophy aloft to loud cheers from a large group of Aldridge supporters who had made the journey to Alrewas. It was a day to remember, a team effort to savour, and a victory that will live long in the club’s history.

? Full Scorecard: https://aldridge.play-cricket.com/website/results/7156425