The Israel U13 team continued their brilliant run of successes at the European Championships being played in Italy, when they beat tournament favourites Germany by 36 runs today.

Reuven Bergman is yet to lose the toss in his short career as Israel captain, and having continued with that streak today, he decided to bat first. After a few inspiring words from coach Hershcel Gutman, Alex Ozer and ben Zakan walked out to open Israel's innings. Zakan was first out for 8, but helped by wayward German bowling, after 10 overs Israel were 46 for 1. Bar Ilya, top scorer so far on tour, was out for just 2, Shai Chanun failed to score, and Wasker also fell cheaply, but Eyal Matz and Ozer got the innings back on track, before Ozer was out for 12 with the score at 74 in the 18th over. Matz finished 8 not out, as the innings closed at 89 for 5 after 20 overs.

Germany began their chase very positively, taking 10 runs from the first two overs. Bergman picked up a wicket in the 3rd over, but could not stop the flow of runs and Israel looked to be in trouble with Germany at 31 for 1 after 5 overs. Enter Wasker to bowl the 6th over - 33 for 2. ben Zakan picked up a wicket with his first ball in the 7th over - 33 for 3 and then wickets continued to fall at regular intervals as the two spinners mesmerised the German batsmen. By the time they had each completed their 4 overs Germany were 52 for 9, with Wasker having taken 4 for 9 and ben Zakan 2 for 8.

Bergman returned to pick up the final wicket as Germany, who lost their last 9 wickets for just 22 runs, tumbled to 53 all out and Israel had completed a remarkable win over a very good team.

Despite the outstanding individual performances mentioned, what characterises the Israel side is the team effort and contribution made by every single player. Gabi Shachat, Savania Gausuker, Matan Raspurker have all been outstanding in the field. Wicketkeeper Chanun has been heaped with compliments from all quarters. Aviad Moses and Shai Divekar have had limited opportunities but have also contributed.

In the day's other games, Belgium, who were beaten by 1 run by Israel yesterday, were once again involved in a nail biting finish. Having scored 102, they managed to restrict Italy to 101, and finish this time on the winning side of the tightest winning margin.

Gibraltar scored 101 batting first against France. The French managed just 90, losing by 11 runs and remaining the only team without a win in the tournament, as the Gibraltans recorded their first win.

© Israel Cricket Association