It’s been a monumental week as the club took on The MCC in the much-anticipated centenary celebration match and what a fabulous day it was. Great cricket, great hospitality, great company, great food and of course, great cake – how good were they? I hope everybody managed to get a slice.
With The Scout being a distinguished (some say extinguished!) guest sitting at the back at the event it’s meant that I’m a little late getting this to you. But have no fear, I’m here, I have a cup of tea and another slice of cake and I’m ready to go. Strap in as I’ll make this quick.
The 1XI return to home action against Oakfield Parkonians and are boosted by the return of wicket keeper Matthew Page (4.9m) The rest of the team are unchanged and skipper Tom Willats (6.5m) will be hoping for a change in fortunes. Hopefully the boys are not suffering a hangover after most played on Thursday.
The Scout verdict – Concentration, focus and team spirit required. Player to watch – Matthew Higgins (6.5m) – I’m picking a bowler this week to do the business.
The 2XI are also up against Oakfield Parkonians. Michael Gray (5.5m) is unavailable after his fine century last week with Daryl Woodford (7.5m) taking the armband. Jack Carter (6m) is moving up the teams and it’s also great to see Kevin Smith (4m) and Mike Rake (3.5m) back in the starting line-up.
The Scout verdict – Everyone needs to be at the party. Player to watch – David De Jong (4.5m) – looking to push on from last week’s fabulous knock.
Jono Edwards (4.1m) 3XI are on the road (what again, I hear you shout!) this time to Walthamstow. Nick Sharp (3.4m), Freddie Hales (6.1m) and Louis Hales (4.5m) come in to add options to the strong bowling attack.
The Scout verdict – A chance to push on – William Pearn (4m) – confidence high after a great knock last week.
Finally, the 4XI are back at home with a local derby against Horndon. Geoff Lake (6.5m) returns to open the batting and it’s great to see spin king Matt Evans (4m) back in the side. Brad Allen (3m) also makes his first start of the season.
The Scout verdict – The team will have to be at their best to continue their great start – Tharun Shanmuganand (2.6m) – has started the season well.
The 5XI line up against Herongate. Its another great effort from the club to get a fifth team fixture. Just a reminder in case you are not aware but runs/wickets here do not score points for the fantasy league.
That’s it then. It has been a monumental week for the club and let’s hope our teams can continue that this weekend with some fine cricket and good results. This is the last weekend of May, so Player and Manager of the month awards are up for grabs. Don’t forget that captain pick, its vital.
Have a great weekend of cricket and as our chairman often says, we at Stanford le Hope cricket club don’t just like cricket, we love it! Go well boys.