After the hot weather and euphoria of last week, cricket at Oakley came crashing back down to earth in true British style today.
First of all, a strong looking First XI had to come to terms with the disappointing news that Tichborne II’s could not field a side for their fixture, which, given that this is only the second Saturday of the new season, does not bode well.
Then, the Second XI, who were looking forward to a good competitive fixture with Odiham II’s, saw their game thwarted by heavy rain after posting an impressive 261-8.
An opening 50 run partnership from Nellie Warner (33) and Steve Savage set the Oaks on their way and a further 50 stand between Steve and Ollie Rabley put the Oaks in control at 100-1.
However, a mini collapse ensued when Steve (33) Ollie (25) and George Lethaby (0) all fell in quick succession leaving Oakley reeling on 103-4.
However, this team has a long batting line up and Alan North entered the fray, bludgeoning the ball all over the farmer’s crops as Darrell Dimond happily rotated the strike watching on in awe for the good part of an excellent 100 run partnership.
Darrel departed on a well crafted 28 (including a sumptuous six that induced shocked scenes on the balcony) and Alan finally went for a ridiculous 80 off 31 balls that effectively ended any of Odiham’s plans for a victory charge.
Further cameos from Alex Brundle (13) the sharp looking Ian Bennett (20) and James Wiltshire, not only put the Oaks control but also denied Bob Lethaby the chance to compile his first golden duck of the season.
Tea was taken (what was that whole tomato doing there?) as the rain began to cascade down on the barbecue tent constructured by chef for the day, Mark Potter, who was happily demonstrating his burger making talents that would have been the envy of any acne riddled McDonalds operative who happened to be passing.
The rain eased and the covers came off but it became heavier again, resulting in the only happy face being that of Marley, the club dog, who after six hours, still hadn’t tired of being thrown a cricket ball by home and opposition players.
Eventually, the captains shook hands and called it day, giving Chairman, Bob Lethaby, his first, albeit non playing role as he heroically informed members that they only had to pay £5:00 subs money instead of £10:00 as well as informing the opposition they could have a burger and a pint for a fiver.
It was one of his greatest moments during his six years as chairman.
So, everyone hung around for a pint or two and a bit of social time, reflecting on what it could have been if the law of the sod hadn’t guided the rain towards North Hampshire. Odiham were, as ever, a good bunch of lads.
Rain ruined a good day today but that’s just the way it goes with cricket in England. However, what is more alarming is that a team with the history and stature of Titchborne, can’t get a team out on the second Saturday of the season.
Troubled times for village cricket and not really the kind of day that will inspire people to take the game up.
Onwards we must travel.
Up the Oaks!