The 1st XI's season was an incredible mix of highs and lows, in some ways it must be regarded as a great disappointment yet at the same time the ecstasy of the final match made up for some poor performance.
After 7 months of intense training the side was certainly well prepared for another tough season against hard opposition. However, the application of our batsmen in the opening 3 games lead to defeats against Sheffield by 8 wickets, by 140 runs to Manchester and a poor defeat against Liverpool by 60 runs.
However, with a walk over against York St Johns relegation could still be avoided with an away win against Durham 2s. Possibly the first weak bowling performance of the season left us requiring 263 for victory, on a quick and bouncy pitch. After the fall of early wickets, solid batting between Ravi Mahendra and James Kerr left the side with the opportunity to accelerate at the end. The match was brilliantly won by some well placed agriculture from Sam Powell and Peter Cowlin, hitting the 99 required from the last 10 overs with 9 balls to spare.
Special mentions must go to the following people who performed outstandingly throughout the season. Sam Powell was excellent opening the bowling with Matt Tupper and he was well rewarded with an average of 16(ish). They were well supported by the bowling of Niall Lafferty, Bobby Banerjee and Matthew Barrow who played an excellent supporting role as 1st and 2nd change bowlers.
The batting certainly struggled in the early games especially among the top order, however, mentions must be given to Will Darby and Ravi Mahendra who came in during the season from the 2nds and gave a great account of themselves at the top of the order. Joe Prince gave brief glimpses of what he is capable of with a well played 60 against Sheffield and James Kerr must also receive a mention, ending the season as top run-scorer with an average of 46.
Overall, the season was disappointing due largely to the high expectations the side had in April, yet the final day victory against Durham proved the quality that the side possesses with bat, bowl and in the field and is something I am sure the side will be able to build on for next season.
James Kerr
1st XI Captain 2007-09
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