A short note to thank you for your faith and support, in appointing me for a third successive season at last week's AGM. However I'm not certain whether the 'Michael Howard' type contest was a sign of universal support or just that nobody else wants the job yet?

As I have repeatedly stated, last season was a big success in my book, with 7 big wins (smallest margin by 55runs), 8draws (in most of which we were on top), and 5 defeats (2 by a whisker). Personal performances were the best for many years, particularly with the batting. Our outfielding and catching was of a
much higher standard, with the weaker players standing out, rather than the good fielders, although we had the odd blip (Claygate!). We had more options on bowling than for many years, going into most games with at least 5/6 bowlers, and sometimes 7/8. This might have proved a mixed blessing at times, trying to give everybody a bowl whilst still trying to win the game. We struggled to bowl teams out several times when we were in command, which is an area I need to think about for next
year.

The team selection was not a problem this year with 9 players making 14plus appearances, with 5 more making 8plus appearances. Only once did we take the field with 10 men, and only twice did we have to drum up last minute players. We used 26 players in total, only saw Paul Reeve 3 times, Sean Oliver, Bob Braithwaite and Rob Symondson twice, and never saw Matt Stockbridge, Colin Wynne or Ian Muir at all. Next season, I am not aware of anyone who will be leaving us although I know Jerry Stockbridge may spend more time in France next year, Alex is threatening to go to Australia for a couple of months, and Matt H. is contemplating the army. On the plus side we hope that Sean, Doug and Paul will be more available as they all leave Uni. However I am keen to strengthen the squad with at least a couple of extra players if we can, or if not , we must try to get 6plus games out of people like Ian Muir and Rob Symondson. We have set ourselves new standards this year which I am keen to maintain if possible, whilst remembering that we are a social side playing for the enjoyment and camaraderie not league points.

I know that Howard is close to finalising fixtures for next season which I believe schedules us for 13 home games, which is tremendous. Dave is organising nets much earlier this year which should give us a cutting edge from the start of the campaign.

Best wishes to you all for Xmas and the New Year.

Ian.