TRIBUTES have been paid to a junior Grappenhall cricket team after a successful tour of Holland.

Grappenhall under 14s, the current Warrington Sports Personality Under 16s Team of the Year, impressed their coach and Dutch officials during a six-day tour in which victory was secured against a full-strength national team.

The head of the Netherlands Cricket Board said the Grappenhall boys' conduct was a credit to their club and English cricket and added that their performance on the pitch had asked many questions of Dutch players.

Grappenhall's coach Neil Baxter commented that there were many aims behind the tour, which in addition to helping players develop their own cricketing skills and enhancing their teamwork, was in recognition of their highly successful season last year when the team won the Cheshire Cup, North Cheshire Cup and reached the last 16 of the national knockout.

He added: "There were a number of notable personal performances but it was the teamwork and overall performance that was so good to see."

The team played three 40-over matches, the highlight of which was their seven-wicket win against a full Dutch national side that are more used to playing English county sides.

The touring squad consisted of Calum Rowe (captain), Sam Baxter (vice-captain), Bradley Angel, Andy Davies, Dan Kimber, James Kimber, Alex Mills, Adam Roylance, Morgan Tarr, Mike Taylor, Luke Watson, Patrick Wisedale.