The Oaks returned to action over the Easter weekend with back-to-back friendlies, despite a long list of absentees thanks to family commitments and a few worrying injuries already creeping in.
Saturday vs Longparish
A makeshift Oaks XI faced a strong Longparish side and, although comfortably beaten, there were reasons for optimism. Noah Beckell showed good form with a composed 27, while Alex Rogan added some spark with an entertaining 21 and a feisty seven-over spell that gave the Longparish batsmen something to think about.
Encouragingly, seven Oaks batsmen made it into double figures—suggesting the rust is slowly coming off. Bowling-wise, there was room for improvement, but positives too: Dan Jones picked up two wickets, with Mike Tiley and promising youngster George Bird also getting in on the act. A tough outing, but one that offered useful lessons heading into the season.
Sunday vs St Mary Bourne
Sunday saw a more cohesive Oaks side take on a depleted St Mary Bourne, who themselves had drafted in a few players from Thruxton. This time, the Oaks looked sharper in the field, bowling SMB out for just 95 in 27.1 overs.
Openers Zak Newton and Harry Tucknott impressed with early spells full of energy and intent, while the experienced trio of Bennett, Brundle and Vickery maintained pressure and shared the wickets around. A special mention too for Will Rabley, who added a direct-hit run out to the highlight reel.
The chase was a brisk affair. Ian Bennett anchored the innings with a fluent 40, supported by Nick Green (26), before Rabley brought the curtain down with a quick-fire 16 that included a couple of lusty blows. The match finished inside 19 overs—emphatic, if not the full match workout some might have hoped for.
Looking Ahead
So, one loss, one win, and plenty to take away from the weekend. With Ashford Hill up next in another friendly, followed by a tough Village Cup tie against Southern Premier League opposition, match fitness and squad depth will be tested early.
With player availability likely to fluctuate and the physio already taking calls, it’s time for fringe players to step up and stake their claim.
On we travel.