CLWB Criced Y Bala are on the verge of promotion to Division 3 after a commanding eight-wicket victory over Carmel CC secured the result they needed to finish in the top two of the North Wales Cricket League Division 4 standings.

With official league confirmation still to come, Bala are celebrating what would be a remarkable achievement just a few years after the club was re-established.

Knowing victory was essential, captain Jason Jones won the toss and elected to field, a decision that paid immediate dividends as Bala's bowlers took control.

Opening bowler Jack White produced a devastating spell that left Carmel reeling at 6-4 after only eight overs. White proved virtually unplayable, claiming four wickets for only four runs from his eight overs as he ripped through the visitors' top order.

Rubel Ahmed provided excellent support with two wickets, while 13-year-old Caio Jones continued to impress. The young bowler delivered a disciplined eight-over spell, taking 1-12 and once again demonstrating his considerable potential.

There was also a standout moment in the field from Dan Williams, whose direct-hit throw resulted in a run out as Bala maintained relentless pressure throughout the innings.

Despite their early struggles, Carmel managed to bat through their allotted 40 overs, finishing on 76-8. However, the total never looked likely to be enough against a confident Bala side.

In reply, Bala made a measured start but lost skipper Jones when he chipped a catch into the air. Rubel Ahmed was then trapped leg before wicket, giving Carmel a brief glimmer of hope.

Any thoughts of a comeback were quickly extinguished by White and Karan, who combined superbly to guide Bala towards their target.

White completed an outstanding all-round performance by top-scoring with 40, while Karan remained unbeaten on 11 as the pair calmly steered the hosts over the line.

Bala reached 77-2 to seal an emphatic eight-wicket triumph and spark celebrations among players, officials and supporters.

The victory represents another significant milestone in the club's resurgence. After rebuilding from the ground up in recent years, Bala have established themselves among the leading sides in Division 4 and are now poised to take the next step.

The success has been built on contributions from across the squad throughout the season, backed by the hard work of volunteers, committee members and loyal supporters who have helped drive the club forward.

However, Bala's work is not yet complete. While promotion appears within touching distance, the Division 4 title is still up for grabs.

With one league game remaining, they now have the opportunity to cap a memorable campaign by lifting the championship and completing a remarkable season.

Fixtures, Saturday, 12 September: Bala v Llanrwst II; Corwen II v Llandudno II; Hawarden Park III v Northop III; Marchwiel & Wxham II v Carmel & District II