U14B 2006
This proved to be an excellent season for the proud young men of the U14Bs, who were ably and charismatically skippered throughout by the impressive Chris Mach. Indeed the only two defeats involved thrillingly close 20:20 matches versus strong Haberdashers’ Askes and QE Barnet sides, both of which could have easily gone either way. The boys’ disappointment must have surely been allayed by the fact that cricket was undoubtedly the winner on both occasions. A number of glorious performances and victories made up the rest of the season, including Cameron McPhail’s match-winning innings against John Lyon, Cameron Jones awesome early season bowling form (8 for 34) and Chris Mach’s late streak of form with the bat (52 and 78 in consecutive innings – both not out). Perhaps the victory of the season, however, involved Berkhamsted being bowled out for a paltry 66, before seeing off a stunned Merchant Taylor’s side for 59, with wickets shared all around. Finally, Bhairav Kotecha’s deceptively accurate and consistent bowling earned him his well-deserved place at the top of the bowling averages, whilst Callum Thompson also deserves mention for his McGrath-esque rhythm and economy. So overall, a highly successful and rewarding season, with the game played in just the right spirit and much enjoyed by players, spectators and umpires alike.
G. J. Hartley