On a weekend when we have great availability, typically, the weather looks unsettled. We will be lucky to get games on, but where would we be without hope?
First XI
The First Team entertain Bashley who were going well until a shock defeat last week against IBM Hursley. The Oaks welcome back Neil Robinson, Clive Welsman, Will Cheyney, Brad Compton-Bearne and Ian Bennett, who deputises for James Bayliss behind the stumps.
It is a strong and balanced looking team, with plenty of batting and bowling options throughout; the hope is we can be a little less wayward with the ball in hand and a bit sharper and wiser whilst picking up runs.
A stern test this, but one to look forward to if the rain clouds give us a break.
Second XI
The Two’s, fresh from their first win of 2021, will be boosted by the return of Tom Barnes and Fawad Amin, offering a tasty looking bowling line-up. Steve Savage is back behind the stumps and Deano James comes in to replace the injured Bob Lethaby (a bitter blow).
Opponents Holybourne II, have had a shaky start to 2021 but if The Oaks are to continue their upturn in fortunes, they will need a repeat of last week’s exemplary performance. Much depends on whether they can cope with the loss of Bob, who has been in the form of his life with recent scores of 7 and 11.
Third XI
The Third XI take on Odiham III’s and will be relieved to see the return of stalwarts, Dan Beckell and Phil ‘Chippy’ Carpenter. It was a chastening experience for a depleted team against a strong Overton second string last week, but the youngsters will learn and get better for it.
With more experience coming in this week, it should be a more enjoyable and hopefully, productive encounter.
So, with everything dependent on the weather, we can only cross fingers and hope for the best. What is certain, is that all members are invited back to the club to watch England take on Ukraine at the Euros.
Some may say that three victories followed by an England win, might be a bit too much to ask.
“Dodgy logo on our shirts, white kits still all gleaming, 15 years an Oak, never stopped me dreaming…”
Good luck one and all.
