What a nice change it is to be a writing a preview and not having to talk about the weather. This is because the high-pressure system that originates down in The Azores, is pushing up towards the UK. When it does this, the jet stream, and its prevailing westerly winds, are cut off. This stops rain bearing low pressure systems tracking across the UK and disrupting sporting events.
Because we don’t need to talk about the weather, lets concentrate on the teams. This is where the law of the sod comes into play. Not only do we have key players missing, but we also have no Third Team game, as it is a blank week for them.
First XI
The First team head off to in-form East Woodhay in what is always a good, spirited game, which we nearly always lose. Woodhay are generally that little better than us, but not much (I hope). It doesn’t help that we are missing Stef Kaltner and Neil Robinson, but we do have plenty of part-time bowlers that can step up.
One being paceman, Dave ‘Bomber’ Bowers, who comes in from The Second XI to give support to Clive and Josh. On the plus side, Brad Compton-Bearne is back in town, giving a boost to the batting line up and another bowling option; especially if he bowls it towards those three wooden pegs, rather than the sightscreen.
East Woodhay will start as favourites on a fantastic track, but if they can bowl well, The Oaks should have enough to make a game of it and push hard for a win. If not a win, some good bonus points as they look to keep ahead of the relegation scrap. Always an enjoyable fixture this one and great for any batsmen who gets their eye in.
Second XI
The Two’s entertain St Mary Bourne at Oakley Park, with a strong looking side out as they hope to build on two successive victories. Jack has batting and bowling options aplenty this week in what could be his strongest side of the season.
The returning Chris Morris, Mike Bryant and Fawad Amin, will be a great boost to the side. And, as a bonus, Jack has batsman, Will Montgomery, in the team after he has had to make way for First XI bowling options.
St Mary Bourne have got a similar league record to us and the games against them are always nip and tuck. There is no reason why this one will be different, meaning it should be a good afternoon at Oakley Park and hopefully a game we can edge, to keep climbing the table.
A special mention for Steve Savage, who turned 70 this week, but still holds on to the second team gloves. Steve is our longest serving Oak, making his debut in 1987, counting every run and catch from that day onwards. And why not? It will be nice to have a few players hanging around to share a beer with Steve, afterwards.
On Sunday, we entertain the Help for Heroes XI at Oakley Park. Because we run three Saturday teams at Oakley, it has been a struggle filling Sunday fixtures this season. However, I am glad to say we have had a good take up on this one. Alex will send a text out as I don’t know who is playing.
So, with the clouds parting, the pressure building and the sun coming out…remember your lotion, your hats, and cold drinks. Most of all, remember that sunny Saturdays don’t come every weekend, so get out there and enjoy your cricket. Thank the Lord I didn’t have to mention the weather now that the high pressure is moving in and cutting off the jet stream and its prevailing westerlies.
Your chairman demands you have a good time!
Up them Oaks!!
