During Hampshire’s recent One Day Cup match against Surrey, 16-year-old fast bowler Manny Lumsden lit up the stadium. In the process, he had an equally lasting impression on his very second List A appearance. Lumsden had a brilliant bowling day, taking 2/46 in 10 overs. His blistering speed and rhythm eased Hampshire to an overwhelming success, winning by over 30 overs remaining.
At 16 years of 288 days, Lumsden showcased his prodigious talent as a future top-class bowler. He stepped onto the field under ideal conditions, where Hampshire’s coaching staff let him loose. His ambitious bowling is Hampshire’s fourth victory in five Group A matches. Perhaps most importantly it highlighted the depths and strengths of their bowling attack.
Lumsden’s match-winning qualities were on full display in his ability to create pressure on the batsmen. He made Rory Burns, making his debut, jump, forcing him to miscue a pull on his fourth ball. This incorrect call caused a catch to turn into completely Burns’s dismissal on 20 runs. In another notable moment, Lumsden saw Adam Thomas chop onto his stumps for just 12 runs during his third over.
A couple of wild ones from Lumsden, with a nasty bouncer that required four wides to score. Yet, as a whole, his performance was a good reminder of his elite raw talent and future potential.
“For 16, he’s got genuine pace and is a really exciting prospect,” said a member of Hampshire’s coaching staff, commending Lumsden’s ability to handle the pressure of competitive cricket.
Hampshire’s captain, Nick Gubbins, emphasized the team’s strong bowling attack, stating that Lumsden’s inclusion in the lineup reflects the promising depth they possess. The team is buoyed by a fast attack featuring Kyle Abbott and James Fuller. They are equally enthusiastic about the new, fresh ideas and approaches of younger talents like Lumsden.
“Our bowling attack, in general, is looking very strong and in the last two matches we have played, the bowlers have both times set up our wins,” Gubbins noted.
Lumsden’s hot hand is indicative of a promising future for Hampshire cricket. It highlights how critical it is to continue developing young talent in the sport. Ryan is currently honing his craft and enjoying learning and gaining experience. Those are some mighty big shoes to fill, but many expect him to become a centerpiece for Hampshire in the years to come.
Leave a Reply