Despite it feeling like week 8 we have actually reached week 18, the final weekend of the season. Team objectives have all been met, with the 1XI securing promotion and the 2XI, 3XI and 4XI all maintaining mid table positions.
If you’re still reading the scout reports this far into the season then thank you, I doubt they have been very helpful, but hey, if you got your captains pick spot on because of it then my job has been a success. Selection has been challenging again meaning a normal week for the captains and selection committee. So, pull up a chair, grab some pop corn and make yourself comfortable as we go through the runners and riders for one last time.
The 1XI travel to West Essex in what could have been a promotion decider. I’m sure the team will be respectful and Gentlemen of the Game and there will be no mention of “…here’s what you could have won…” talk in true Jim Bowen style (if you know you know!). Bala Sudhakaran (4.8m) is the only absentee from last weeks team with Max Willats (5.5m) coming in. The last time these two teams met on the final day of the season in 2022, the 1XI hit an incredible 434-5. A repeat of that would sign the season off in style, unlikely I know, but you never know!
The 2XI host two teams again (one last time I promise!) as they come up against Hadleigh & Thundersley. Umpire Nuts will be hoping for a quieter, incident free game. Skipper Daryl Woodford (7.6m) has a strong team at his disposal with the Robinson family of Drew (4m), Harry(4.6m) and Freddie (4.7m) all in the lineup. Joe Robertson (5.1m) completes a quadruple group of “sons”, maybe a record, maybe not.
The 3XI will be hoping for some cricket to sign off the season after last weeks let down. They are also up against two teams (ok this will be the last time, double promise!) as they travel to Wanstead & Snaresbrook. Captain Ian Rudder (4.5m) has called up a few from the 4XI in Geoff Gullett (4.1m), Jack Cable (6m), Sam Stannard (4m) and Will Robertson (-m). A win will see the team end the season in a very respectable 4th place.
Last but not least the 4XI will bring the curtain down on the season at home to Wickford. Skipper Joe McCarthy (3.5m), who has stepped up magnificently into the role, has a mix of experience and youth in his team. The wise heads of Geoff Lake (6.4m), Adam Pickett (5.6m), Zee Ali (2.9m) and Jay Placey (4.5m) mixed with the enthusiasm of the youngsters in Jordan Pickett (3m), Emma Poskitt (3m) and Ashley Roope (3.8m). The team won the reverse fixture back in June by 2 runs so expect another close encounter here.
The fantasy league final positions seem to be between 3 players, its very tight so it will come down to the correct transfer or a captain having the day of their life. If you haven’t used your triple captain yet, then this really is your last chance. Be brave and gamble.
That’s it then, one last hurrah. If you are playing – enjoy, if spectating – enjoy and if doing both behave! Go well everyone, see you back at the beach party, my biggest decision this weekend is what flip flops to wear!!
That’s me over and out…..