No need for any brollies at this match. It was a beautiful Summer’s evening in Pyrford. Our selected umpire, Mr Bongers, merely needed a sun-hat as protection from the conditions.

The boys decided to bat first. Nearly all, who took the crease, scored and there were some great shots, including a good number of boundaries. This despite the pitch, at one end, being rather unpredictable. Some said unplayable!

With such an “interesting wicket”, special batting mentions must go to Jai, who clearly carried his form over from the previous day (and was so close to retiring, as he casually mentioned to some of the watching parents), and Rishik. They scored 28 and 13 respectively (with Ben also having a good knock) and fully deserved their guards of honour from the team at the end of their innings. Lovely to see. They really are a great group and clearly look out for each other.

A respectable total, of 123 (for 8), was posted. Something to bowl at and defend. Or so we thought and the team took to the pitch and the fielding positions, with confidence, and a spring in its step.

Sadly, though, it was not to be! The total was “picked off” with some three overs to spare. That said, the fielding was pretty keen alongside some solid overs (although, if not all), with Isaac and Freddie posting some economical figures.

So, a defeat (but in score only)! The boys clearly enjoyed the game and were not too downhearted. On to the next one. Bring on Horley.