Well, I didn't think the Maidenhead Thunderer would print my musings on our moral stance over selection last week, but maybe they did as an implicit support for our cause. Perhaps every new member should get a copy of the accounts to see the extortionate amount we have to pay in rates and water, and the cost of simply preparing wickets and getting the grass cut. Anyway we got through to one who duly paid up.  

Sometimes I wonder why I spend most Saturday afternoon's in the testosterone fuelled atmosphere of village cricket. But Saturday was life affirming. Despite the weather, Littlewick Green is always a lovely place to visit and the opposition very sporting. A terrifically exciting finished was engineered with Hurley sneeking home by one wicket thanks to a brilliant last wicket stand of 51 between Dave F and Naeem (from the half way line - you have to know your Spurs history to appreciate that one). We had a childish chuckle at the opposition's surnames and I await with some trepidation to see if the Thunderer prints my innuendos.

A couple of complaints I am afraid. The pub laid on a sub standard spread which made us all thankful for Val, frankly the sandwiches lacked filling and inspiration and the cakes looked like they came out of a doll's house. And no colts were available for selection to the 1XI. A brilliant atmosphere is developing in the 2XI under Darryn and they are challenging having won 6, so it may not be possible to upset their mix. I personally would like to see a few more in the 1XI and with our brittle batting, there are a few places. Perhaps I shall have to wait a few more years as they grow. Where oh where are we going to find someone who can build a Collingwood style innings. Where is the glue that will make the 1XI competitive? Perhaps I am being harsh as Tim, Denis, Naeem and Dave F grafted to get us over the line this week.

Finally, well done Naeem for his 8-28, the joint best 9^th bowling performance ever in the history of Hurley CC.