Skipper Alex Lees, pictured, compiled a sound 51 not out after left-arm spinner Alex Leyshon had pocketed 4-40 to see an improving Yorkshire Academy side home by eight wickets against Hull in the Solly Sports ECB Yorkshire County Premier League.

The Academy played their first League match of the season at Headingley Carnegie under cloudy skies, and after losing the toss and taking the field they made early inroads.

With the score on three opener Chris Grey was caught behind off Wainman’s second over, and Hull had added only nine more runs when Tom Dimaline mistimed a short ball to give an easy catch to George Ross off David Girling.

Eddie Wilson took two further catches at the wicket as Hull total struggled into the thirties, and a misunderstanding between Jack Oughtred  and Andy Kirby ended in Kirby being run out by a good throw from Ross. Matt Wilkinson was another Wilson victim off the bowling of Ashley Robinson.

The Headingley wicket was certainly helpful to the quicker bowlers, but Leyshon with his spin he had 10 successful overs, efficiently cleaning up the tail. The Academy could be pleased with their performance at tea. To bowl Hull out for 102 was very creditable.

Lees and James McNichol started well, reaching 32 before McNichol was lbw to Dan Wilkinson, who had replaced opening-bowler Dominic Rhodes at the pavilion end. Brother Matt removed Ross in similar fashion at 45. Lees was severe on any short ball, and was untroubled by pace or spin. His 51 not out was a fine, controlled innings, and he was given excellent support by Jack Leaning, who struck five fours in a good, unbeaten 27.

The Academy continue to improve, and took eight valuable points from a Hull team who played below their normal standard. Yorkshire must be looking forward to their next match at Abbeydale Park, where the Collegiate team will be tested.

Words and Statistics: HAROLD GALLEY