Captain, Darrel Dimond, reaped the rewards of having a strong and enthusiastic side out for the first game of Oakley’s defence of the Guy Jewell Shield on a balmy evening at Sherfield on Loddon.
A Balmy evening at Sherfield on Loddon
Bowling first, despite a poor first over from George Lethaby, the Oaks were soon on top with Steve Bown and Tom Holbrook assuming control and taking wickets as Sherfield floundered in temperatures above 30 centigrade.
Clive Welsman also took wickets as well as a bit of tap, whilst at the other end Gerry Dique was tight enough to reduce Sherfield to a meagre total of less than 100.
Chasing the total, Gerry Dique and Dan Sumner batted with the freedom that comes with having a long batting line-up behind them and splayed the ball all around the park with a partnership that took the Oaks to the target without loss or alarm.
Howdy partner: Dan and Gerry Celebrate with a pint
The Oaks can move in to the next round in confident mood and with team of the quality on display tonight, why not another trophy at the end of the season? However, the forthcoming holiday period will be a test for Darrel, as it is for any village captain.
Up the Oaks!