Memorial game is fitting tribute to cricketer Phil Fisher (From Gazette & Herald)

Memorial game is fitting tribute to cricketer Phil Fisher

11:36am Friday 21st September 2012 in Sport By Albert Pattison

A crowd of around 250 attended a special memorial game which closed the season at Sheriff Hutton Bridge Cricket Club.

The Yorkshire Academy were visitors in a match in commemoration and celebration of the life of Phil Fisher.

His three talented sons were all appearing in the Bridge side which was captained by the youngest of the three Matthew, against his Academy team-mates.

The Yorkshire squad were comfortable winners, thanks to an unbeaten century from skipper, York’s Jack Leaning, and a productive eight-wicket stand.

Heworth -based Leaning, who made his county debut a few weeks ago, retired as soon as he reached three figures, paving the way for a rapid 48 not out from Stamford Bridge’s Will Rhodes in a total of 269-7.

In reply, the home side lost three early wickets, but were rallied by guest player Matt Dale, of Acomb , who hit 65.

But three quick wickets from Ryan Gibson cut off the response at 217 in the 38th over.

The Academy players all agreed to forego match expenses by handing their share to the York Against Cancer charity.

With the addition of programme sales and a profitable auction, £1,000 was raised to reinforce the high regard in which Fisher was held for his huge input into junior cricket.