The cream of youth cricket will be on show this Sunday when Whitland take on Narberth in the final of the Ormond Youth Cup at Carew. Whitland will be looking to secure their third successive win in the competition, but face a stiff challenge from a Narberth side that boasts two first division regulars among their starting 11. Skipper Tom Richards, a highly-rated young batsman and Kyle Quartermaine, a promising all- rounder, should provide the bulk of the runs and wickets for Narberth, but that won't faze Whitland, as coach Colin John explains: "We're a good all-round side with plenty of depth to our bowling and batting. It should be a close game, but I'm sure our players can pull it off." What's most impressive about Whitland is the fact that all of their team will be eligible to play in next year's competition too. None of the team features regularly in the first division, but most play a part for their seconds. Narberth skipper Richards is well aware of Whitland's recent history in the competition, but has no doubt that his team can rise to the challenge. "We're two evenly-matched sides," he said. "Anything can happen on the day, but we think we can win. We'll show them the respect they deserve, but our batting strength should see us through." It's obvious that both sides are confident ahead of Sunday's clash, but there will be no love lost between the teams once the first delivery is bowled. There is a rich sporting history between the towns and this looks set to continue, whoever comes out on top.
