It’s going to be Hot, Hot, Hot this weekend and we’ll be Walking on Sunshine as the June heatwave continues—those of a certain generation may be getting serious 1976 flashbacks (ask your mum!). Expect a weekend of winning the toss, batting first, and yes... double drinks breaks are firmly on the cards.
So, who’s in, who’s out, and who’s shaking it all about? Here are your runners and riders for another week of fun and games—our captains are already sweating and it’s not just the weather…
2nd XI
Last week’s standout performers are back at it, taking on not one but two teams in Fives & Heronians (shhh, nothing to see here). With Grayzo injured and Daryl promoted to the 1s, leadership passes to Drew Robinson (4.0m). He’s brought in Michael Edwards (5.4m) to don the gloves and steady the batting. Dave De Jong (4.6m) continues his rich vein of form, while it’s a warm welcome back for Mohit Bhagwani (6.1m).
Scout Verdict: Caught in a Trap —top of the table opponents for the second week in a row.
Player to Watch: Robert McKay (Fives) – an opening bat who smashed 90 off 72 last week.
4th XI
Currently holding 4th spot and sitting in a Champions League place, the 4s face a stern test as Harold Wood visit The Rec. With Coppy unavailable, Geoff Gullett (4.5m) takes the reins again. Debut alert: Vivek Khanna (4.0m) joins the squad, along with a recall for Zahid Ali (3.5m). Great to see Emma Poskitt (4.0m) and Ashley Roope (2.9m) back in action.
Friendly reminder—the 4s have supplied the lion’s share of Team of the Week selections. If you know what I mean, Harry...
Scout Verdict: It’s Now or Never.
Player to Watch: Chris Targett-Adams (Harold Wood) – opening bat with runs in the locker.
3rd XI
The 3s are back on the road, this time heading to Harlow. After a hectic few days of group chat lift logistics, Jono Edwards (4.1m) has sorted it—everyone has a ride! Vinay Kumar (4.9m) and Ravi Sandaname (3.5m) are key figures this week, with young talents James McCartney (4.5m) and Sam Stannard (4.6m) poised for impact.
Scout Verdict: Momentum’s building - Don’t Stop 'Til You Get Enough.
Player to Watch: Olly Allen (Harlow) – bagged runs and wickets last time out.
1st XI – Good Vibrations
Back at home and taking on fellow promotees Bentley, the 1s have called up Matt Lewis (5.0m) after last week’s demolition job. Friendly warning: Do not park in the car park—you’ve been warned. The returns of Matt Higgins (6.4m) and Jack Carter (6.2m) are timely boosts, and with Jack Scutt (5.5m) and Martin Leslie (4.9m) in the side, those in the splash zone may want to stay alert. And yes, the budgy smugglers may be on show—there will be no unseeing it. All will be revealed - literally!
Scout Verdict: Here comes the sun.
Player to Watch: Phil Coleman (Bentley) – a run machine.
Final Word – The Winner Takes It All
It’s the last weekend of June, which means the Manager of the Month award is up for grabs. Transfers must be in by 11am Saturday, so don’t leave it to the last minute. Who’s tickling your fantasy fancy this week? And don’t forget that all important captain pick.
See you at the club— take plenty of suncream, enjoy the rays, and have a cracking weekend of cricket.