As we step into week 4 of the season, the spring weather has been mercifully kind, giving us the opportunity to play without too many interruptions. The Third XI is leading the charge with strong performances, while the First and Second XI teams have shown fluctuating forms, keeping us all on our toes as they look for consistency.
First XI Preview
The First XI faces Hook’s 3rd XI at home, aiming to bounce back from last week’s narrow defeat against South Winchester. The team sees just two changes: Stef Kaltner and Chris Morris, the latter making a leftfield leap from the Second XI. They will replace Will Cheyney and Steve Bown, with Mozzer bringing speed and agility to the field, as well as a potential boost to the batting lineup. We all know what Stef does.
The focus remains on backing up good stuff in the field by turning single-digit scores into meaningful contributions to support any half-centuries or centuries that come our way. Hook’s recent struggles shouldn’t lead to complacency, as they could still field a strong lineup with returning players. A win is vital to start the climb up the table and gather some momentum and the lads are confident of doing just that.
Second XI Preview
The Second XI, with their ever-changing lineup, travel to Crown Tavs after last week’s setback that dented early promotion hopes. The return of Sharan Hugar and Ollie Rabley is set to strengthen the bowling attack that relied heavily on Noah Beckell and Zak Newton last week as others faltered. Fielding improvement is also critical, as it was poor last week, with miss-fields and dropped catchers aplenty. As oft noted by First XI skipper James Bayliss’s mantra: “anyone can learn to field well.”
The batting needs resilience, with hopes pinned on Jack Brundle and Nick Green forming a solid opening partnership to set a decent platform for others to contribute. The 2s have shown potential at CN5 level, and it’s time to convert that into consistent performances by fighting for every run and responding when the chips are down. Wins at any level are earned on the field not by looking good on paper.
Third XI Preview
The Third XI has had no such issues, coming off two dominating wins. This week’s squad includes four colts, all selected on merit, and the return of Tom Hartgill after a hernia operation. The batting lineup is in good form, with Dan and Tall Jeff leading the way, while veterans Dave Bowers and Avi Thakur set the standard in bowling. Will McCarthy and Joby Beatty have also justified their places with strong performances and the Bird brothers also come in after showing great commitment in adult training and performing well in the Colts.
The match against Compton & CF 4s will be a good test, but confidence is high, and another solid win will see the climb further up the table into nosebleed territory. That’s great news for the club as a whole and can aide in pushing us along.
Closing Thoughts
With May behind us, the summer promises more opportunities for success. We haven’t yet secured a clean sweep on any Saturday, but there’s optimism that our best form is still to come. Regardless of the results, playing with passion and enjoying the game is what matters most. Let’s aim to give our best and enjoy the camaraderie that cricket brings. After the matches, why not join us for a Caribbean night at the club—while Bob Marley won’t be there, Bob and Marley will be to ensure it’s a night to remember…sort of!
Let’s strive to bring home 3 wins and make this weekend memorable both on and off the field. On we travel…
