Cardiff Cavaliers Club Archive: 2009

In this document you will be able to find details of:  Officers & Award winners  Player averages  Results & Match reports  AGM reports & minutes If you know the name of a person or a match you particularly want to see please use the “Find” box in the PDF (usually at the top of the page)

Officers & Award winners

Officers (serving for 2009 season):

Honorary President: Graham (Joey) Newbury Chairman: Jonathan Thomas : Jimmy Marchant Vice Captain: Jason Duffy Secretary: Ross Bowen Treasurer: David Parsons

Awards:

Player of the Year: Jonathan Thomas Clubman: Glenn Chapman Top batsman: Andrew Steadman Top bowler: Jimmy Marchant

Notable achievements

Willow League Plate Winners

New record of most recorded victories in a season – 15

Jimmy Marchant sets a new club record with 39 , the most in a season Player averages

Appearances/ Qualification: 5 completed innings

M Inn NO HS Runs 4/6 50s 100s Ave Andrew Steadman 14 14 5 93 525 56/1 5 - 58.34 Jonathan Thomas 23 23 3 134 604 80/11 2 2 30.20 Glenn Chapman 15 15 1 62 341 36/6 1 - 24.36 Michael McVeigh# 17 15 1 101 326 39/1 2 1 23.29 Jimmy Marchant 30 27 6 52 498 55/6 1 - 21.65 Nigel Adams 17 15 6 45 183 12/4 - - 20.34 Dave Parsons 21 19 3 53* 187 11/1 1 - 11.69 Jason Duffy 23 16 4 30* 134 13/0 - - 11.17 Alasdair Fraser# 20 15 4 34* 112 14/0 - - 10.18 Steve Davis 19 11 4 22* 69 8/0 - - 9.86 Jonathan Davies 19 16 2 22 109 14/0 - - 7.79 Gary Elliott# 10 6 0 15 40 6/0 - - 6.67 Michael Dawkins# 9 6 1 20 30 4/0 - - 6.00 Wyn Pritchard 12 7 1 6* 14 - - - 2.34

Also played/batted M Inn NO HS Runs 4/6 50s 100s Riaz Anwar 3 2 0 16 31 3/0 - - Warwick Armstrong 1 1 0 32 32 1/0 - - Ross Bowen 6 2 1 1 1 - - - Graeme Brown 13 6 5 18* 30 2/0 - - Martin Buckle 2 2 1 3* 3 - - - Paul Carpenter# 8 5 3 17 33 2/0 - - Richard Davies 3 3 0 12 12 1/0 - - Chris Evans# 7 5 2 10* 22 4/0 - - Rich Faller# 1 1 1 2* 2 0/0 - - James Gardner# 9 5 1 12 19 2/0 - - Chris Heighway# 2 1 0 0 0 - - - Nigel Moore 5 3 1 42 71 6/0 - - Graham Newbury 4 2 0 8 8 1/0 - - Huw Parsons 6 2 0 2 2 0/0 - - Glyn Poulsom 2 1 1 6* 6 0/0 - - Kiran Ridley 2 2 0 0 0 - - - Jamie Smith 5 5 1 39 117 17/2 - - Jeremy Sparkes 3 2 0 9 13 2/0 - - Alistair Steadman 2 1 0 1 1 - - - Mark Twaits 9 4 0 5 4 - - - # indicates debutant * indicates

Bowling/Fielding Qualification: 16 overs

Ovs Mdn Runs Wkts 3+ Best Ave Ct/St Jimmy Marchant 112.2 12 528 39 4 4/24 13.53 15 Michael McVeigh 58 8 238 10 - 2/13 23.80 5 Nigel Adams 34.5 1 253 10 1 4/50 25.30 3 Glenn Chapman 22 0 130 5 - 2/23 26.00 2 Steve Davis 47 2 321 12 1 5/20 26.75 4 Jason Duffy 79 5 455 16 1 3/8 28.43 3 Mark Twaits 32.2 5 179 6 - 2/33 29.83 - Ross Bowen 22 2 97 3 - 1/4 32.33 - Jonathan Davies 63 4 360 11 - 1/12 32.72 2 Michael Dawkins 30 0 165 5 - 2/12 33.00 1 Alasdair Fraser + 70 3 407 11 1 3/26 37.00 08/0 Graeme Brown 39 0 281 6 - 2/9 46.83 - James Gardner 21 1 153 2 - 1/23 76.50 - Wyn Pritchard 23 0 172 2 - 2/36 86.00 - 8 catches as an outfielder Also bowled/fielded Ovs Mdn Runs Wkts 3+ Best Ct/St Riaz Anwar 3 1 5 0 - 0/5 - Warwick Armstrong 4 0 17 1 - 1/17 - Martin Buckle 7 0 46 4 1 4/32 - Paul Carpenter 6 0 53 4 - 2/13 1 Richard Davies 1 0 14 1 - 1/14 - Gary Elliott 14.4 0 98 4 - 1/16 1 Chris Evans 16 0 141 6 - 2/13 2 Rich Faller ------Chris Heighway 1 0 34 0 - 0/34 - Nigel Moore 3 0 27 1 - 1/27 1 Graham Newbury 15 1 59 3 - 2/15 2 Dave Parsons + 9 1 61 3 - 2/19 71/6 Huw Parsons 18 0 92 2 - 1/19 - Glyn Poulsom 4 0 21 0 - 0/9 - Kiran Ridley 2 0 19 0 - 0/19 - Jamie Smith 6 0 33 3 - 2/23 - Jeremy Sparkes + ------0/0 Alistair Steadman ------Andrew Steadman 16 0 110 4 - 1/9 2 Jonathan Thomas + 4 0 37 0 - 0/37 72/7 + indicates kept in at least one game 1 catch as an out-fielder 2 catches as an out-fielder Results & Match reports

Fixtures 44 Won 15 Lost 17 Drawn 1 Rain 10 Other 1*

Match reports are in chronological order with the most recent game first or click on a game in the summary below and it will take you direct to that report

Barry Wanderers, Sat 26 Sep. Cav 223/7 (40ovs, McVeigh 77, Adams 45, Chapman 30, A Steadman jnr 21, J Thomas 20). BW 178ao (37ovs, Marchant 4/24, Chapman 1/2, Adams 1/8, Mcveigh 1/9, A Steadman jnr 1/9, Duffy 1/28, Brown 1/33). Won by 45 runs Barry Athletic, Sun 20 Sep. Cav 206/7 (40ovs, J Thomas 107, Marchant 32, D Parsons 20, S Davis 17no). Barry Ath 207/4 (38.4ov, J Davies 2/28, Elliott 1/19). Lost by 6 wickets Llanvapley, Sun 6 Sep. Llanv‟y 167/5 (40ovs, Dawkins 2/10, Fraser 1/8, Brown 1/12, Moore 1/27). Cav 170/7 (34ovs, Chapman 62, Moore 42, J Thomas 30). Won by 3 wickets Chartered Trust (“Ashes”), Thu 27 Aug. CT 117/7 (15ovs, Marchant 3/11, Carpenter 2/13, J Davies 1/18. McVeigh 1/23). Cav 98/7 (15ovs, Chapman 36, J Thomas 14, Marchant 14no). Lost by 19 runs South Wales Sri Lankans, Sun 23 Aug. SWSL 210/8 (40ovs, Adams 4/50, McVeigh 2/13, Armstrong 1/17). Cav 166/5 (40ovs, McVeigh 101, Armstrong 32). Lost by 44 runs Highways Hurricanes (C&H Trophy), Tue 18 Aug. Cav 125/7 (18 ovs, Marchant 26, Adams 22, McVeigh 21no, Chapman 13). HH 126/2 (17ovs, Marchant 1/23). Lost by 8 wickets Chartered Trust ("Ashes"), Thu 13 Aug. CT 150/6 (18ovs, Marchant 2/20, C Evans 2/42, Fraser 1/22, Elliott 1/23). Cav 87/8 (18ovs, J Thomas 19, D Parsons 13, Moore 11no). Lost by 63 runs GE Healthcare (WL Plate), Tue 11 Aug. GE 82/6 (18ovs, Duffy 2/7, Dawkins 2/12, Marchant 1/11). Cav 83/2 (12ovs, Steadman jnr 45, Marchant 30no). Won by 8 wickets Uni Staff (WL Plate), Thu 6 Aug. Uni Staff 90/5 (18ovs, Marchant 2/3, Duffy 1/6, Adams 1/15). Cav 91/1 (14.5ovs, A Steadman jnr 47no, Marchant 34no). Won by 9 wickets Teddington (Tour). Sun 2 Aug. Ted‟n 360/5 (35ovs, Marchant 2/72, Gardner 1/28, J Davies 1/47, Dawkins 1/49). Cav 96/9 (27.5ovs, Fraser 23, Marchant 17, J Thomas 10). Lost by 264 runs Fulham Taverners (Tour). Fri 31 Jul. Tav‟s 231/9 (40ovs, J Davies 2/20, Marchant 2/21, Fraser 1/14, Brown 1/29, Twaits 1/29, S Davis 1/33). Cav 193/7 (40ovs, Marchant 41, Fraser 34no, J Davies 22, Brown 18no, Chapman 18, Duffy 14). Lost by 38 runs BA Dragons (WL Plate), Mon 27 Jul. Won by forfeit. 2 pts awarded by Willow League Consmen (WL Plate), Thu 23 Jul. Consmen 148/2 (18ovs, Marchant 1/17). Cav 149/2 (17.1ovs, A Steadman jnr 53no, Marchant 52, Adams 17no). Won by 8 wickets Caerleon, Sun 5 Jul. Cav 116ao (36.3ovs, Marchant 35, Moore 18, Anwar 16). Drawn (abandoned due to rain with Caerleon unable to start their reply) Consmen (Cup semi-final), Thu 2 Jul. Consmen 155/5 (18ovs,D Parsons 2/19, Duffy 1/14, Marchant 1/14, A Steadman jnr 1/14 ). Cav 67ao (10ovs, A Steadman jnr 27no, Adams 10). Lost by 88 runs Rhiwbina (WL), Tue 30 Jun. Rh 138/3 (20ovs, McVeigh 1/6, D Parsons 1/12, A Steadman jnr 1/19). Cav 142/6 (19.4ovs, J Thomas 43, Marchant 21, A Steadman jnr 18). Won by 4 wickets BA Dragons (WL), Thu 25 Jun. Won by forfeit. 15 pts awarded by Willow League Cardiff Casuals (WL), Mon 22 Jun. Casuals 154/4 (20ovs, Duffy 3/8, Marchant 1/28). Cav 126/6 (20ovs, A Steadman jnr 35, Chapman 19, Duffy 18no, J Davies 14). Lost by 28 runs Sudbrook, Sun 21 Jun. Sudbrook 251/8 (40ovs, Pritchard 2/36, S Davis 1/13, Elliott 1/16, Marchant 1/21). Cav 165/8 (40ovs, McVeigh 59, Duffy 26, Elliott 15, S Davis 13no). Lost by 86 runs South Wales Echo, Thu 18 Jun. Cav 105/8 (20ovs, Dawkins 20, McVeigh 18, Carpenter 17, Elliott 13, Marchant 13, R Davies 12). Echo 106/3 (15.4ovs, Carpenter 1/1, McVeigh 1/13, Davis 1/13). Lost by 7 wickets South Glam (WL), Tue 16 Jun. SGlam 124/8 (20ovs, Marchant 3/22, Chapman 2/23, Adams 1/17, Gardner 1/23). Cav 88ao (18 ovs, D Parsons 21, Smith 20, Duffy 10). Lost by 36 runs Rhiwbina (Cup quarter final), Thu 11 Jun. Rh 129/8 (18ovs, Marchant 2/4, Evans 2/13, Smith 1/10, D Parsons 1/13, R Davies 1/14, Carpenter 1/22). Cav 130/4 (17ovs, D Parsons 27ret, Marchant 26 ret, Adams 26ret, Smith 19, Evans 10no). Won by 6 wickets Cardiff Hockey (WL), Tue 9 Jun. CHockey 125/9 (20ovs, J Davies 2/12, Fraser 2/13, Smith 2/23, Marchant 2/27, McVeigh 1/22). Cav 119ao (18.4ovs, Smith 39, J Thomas 26). Lost by 6 runs Croesyceiliog, Sun 31 May. Cro‟g 226/6 (40ovs, Bowen 1/8, Newbury 1/8, H Parsons 1/21, Marchant 1/25, Brown 1/33, Adams 1/41). Cav 230/2 (30ovs, J Thomas 134, A Steadman jnr 50no). Won by 8 wickets Chartered Trust (WL), Thu 28 May. CT 121/4 (20ovs, Duffy 1/9, Bowen 1/15, McVeigh 1/17). Cav 122/2 (18.1 ovs, J Thomas 67no, Chapman 19no). Won by 8 wickets Eclipse Print (WL), Tue 26 May. Eclipse 199/3 (20ovs, Marchant 2/15, Duffy 1/38). Cav 151ao (18.4 ovs, A Steadman jnr 61,J Thomas 23, Marchant 16). Lost by 48 runs Highways Hurricanes, Thu 21 May. HH 137ao (19.5ovs, Marchant 2/3, Adams 2/13, Duffy 2/31, Twaits 1/14, S Davis 1/15, Elliott 1/16, McVeigh 1/16). Cav 138/2 (18.5ovs, D Parsons 53no, Chapman 48). Won by 8 wickets Cardiff Casuals, Sun 10 May. Cav 102/9 (40ovs, Marchant 34, extras 26, S Davis 13no). Casuals 103/2 (24ovs, H Parsons 1/19, S Davis 1/21). Lost by 8 wickets Uni Staff (WL), Thu 7 May. Uni Staff 121/7 (20 ovs, J Davies 2/13, Fraser 2/19, Chapman 1/15, Twaits 1/15, Duffy 1/16). Cav 125/7 (19.5 ovs, A Steadman jnr 51no, Chapman 19, Marchant 13, Duffy 10no). Won by 3 wickets Eclipse Print, Tue 5 May. Eclipse 132/6 (20 ovs, Marchant 3/7, Brown 2/9, Davis 1/17). Cav 119/7 (20 ovs, J Smith 25ret, Marchant 25ret, S Davis 22no). Lost by 13 runs South Wales Sri Lankans, Sun 3 May. SWSL 142ao (34.2 ovs, Davis 5/20, Newbury 2/15, Evans 2/21, Fraser 1/16). Cav 78ao (28.3 ovs, Chapman 19, Anwar 15). Lost by 64 runs Bristol YMCA, Sat 25 April. YMCA 185/9 (40 ovs, Buckle 4/32, Marchant 1/7, Steadman 1/12, Twaits 1/16, Davis 1/22, Duffy 1/39). Cav 186/8* (39.3ovs, Steadman 93, Duffy 30no, Marchant 16). Won by 1 wicket Barry Wanderers, Sat 18 April. BW 145/9 (40 ovs, Fraser 3/26, Twaits 2/33, Bowen 1/2, Marchant 1/9, Duffy 1/11, Chapman 1/22). Cav 149/3 (28.4 ovs, J Thomas 50, Chapman 39, Adams 23no). Won by 7 wickets

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Barry Wanderers, Sat 26 Sep. Won by 45 runs. Cav 223/7 (40ovs, McVeigh 77, Adams 45, Chapman 30, A Steadman jnr 21, J Thomas 20). BW 178ao (37ovs, Marchant 4/24, Chapman 1/2, Adams 1/8, McVeigh 1/9, Duffy 1/28, Brown 1/33)

On a fine, sunny day The Cavaliers won the toss and elected to bat in this, the season‟s closing game. They opened the innings with Andrew Steadman and Jonathan Thomas. The Wanderers opened their attack with Pathak and Gareth King. Of the two bowlers, Pathak was the faster, yet Gareth King relied more on changes of pace and variation of line and length. The Cavaliers began quite steadily on a wicket that was slow yet unpredictable, with some deliveries going through to the batsmen at an expected pace, and others slowing up and “popping”. This proved to be how the pitch would play throughout this game, with no batsman ever being able to play freely with any certainty of how the ball would behave.

Steadman was watchful in contrast to Thomas, who played with more freedom. Yet both perished within quick succession of each other for a similar score. Thomas was the first to fall. He hit hard through a ball that appeared to slow. Instead of the ball soaring over the long-on boundary, the slowing of the ball caused it to balloon high into the air, to fall into the hands of Lane who was running in from a deep mid-on position. Gareth King was the bowler. Thomas had scored 20 and the score was 45. Steadman perished to a similar in Gareth King‟s next over. This time Steadman tried working a ball through the leg side, the ball stopped on him and he managed only to spoon it, off a leading edge, to Lane at mid-on. He had scored 21. The Cavaliers score was 50 for 2.

McVeigh and Adams were the two new batsmen and they treated themselves to the new bowling of Gethin King and Ellis. McVeigh showed aggressive intent from the outset and this approach was mirrored by Adams, who took on the spin of Gethin King, smiting two sixes and two fours on his way to a quickfire 45. He looked in fine touch.

After Adams, McVeigh continued to find the boundary and he caused the fielders to disperse. Chapman had joined him at the wicket, but he did not feel in particularly good form. This did not, however, prevent him from despatching Pathak straight down the ground for an effortless and majestic six. After this six, Pathak pitched his next ball short of a length, only for Chapman to pull the ball to the square leg boundary for four.

After Chapman was dismissed for 30, Marchant (LBW) and Davis () were both dismissed without scoring. McVeigh, who looked likely to score a century if he had been at the crease at the end of the innings, was unfortunately for 77 to the bowling of Thomas. McVeigh had missed a delivery while he advanced down the wicket, and he had no hope of making his ground in time. McVeigh had employed this tactic of coming down the wicket for much of his innings, in an effort to disrupt the bowlers‟ good lengths and to counter the slowness of the wicket. It had allowed some of his strokes more momentum and it was a tactic that had worked. Unfortunately, though, this tactic also proved to be McVeigh‟s downfall. McVeigh‟s innings included 14 fours. Jonathan Davies added 8 not out. The Cavaliers closed their innings with 223 for 7 from their 40 overs.

Barry Athletic opened their innings with Gethin King and D Thomas. King was very aggressive when he hit a ball bowled by opening bowler Duffy, “on the up” through long off for four. King looked as though he had no intention of merely occupying the crease. Captain Marchant, however, noticed that he could use the wily and cunning spin of Brown to immediate and good effect. He brought Brown on at “the sunny end”, as he could tell that a well-flighted ball from Brown would be uncomfortable for the batsmen to see against the falling sun. King was quickly dismissed in Brown‟s first over. This was either because King had indeed had trouble in determining the flight of the ball, or because King was a victim of having too much adrenaline (or both): he advanced “down the track” to miss the ball, finding himself stranded and out of his crease, for Jonathan Thomas to take the stumping. Although seemingly menacing, King was dismissed cheaply for just 4.

There followed from Barry Wanderers contributions from D Thomas (24), Ellis (23), Barnes (30) and Norman, the captain (30). But it was Pathak (31) who appeared most able of the Wanderers batsmen. It was difficult to understand, however, why he had only been allowed to bat at no higher than number 9. He took the attack to The Cavaliers from a seemingly hopeless position, helping to take the Wanderers to within 45 runs when their final wicket fell (that of Denning, LBW to Steadman). Pathak himself was dismissed a little earlier off the bowling of Adams and with his wicket any hope of a Wanderers victory was effectively extinguished.

For The Cavaliers, Duffy bowled economically, taking one for 28 from 8 overs; Marchant enjoyed 4 wickets for 24 from 4 overs: McVeigh stemmed the run flow at a critical time, taking 1 wicket for 9 runs from 4 overs; and Chapman bowled a single over that conceded just 2 runs.

This game, although competitive, was played in a very good spirit by both sides, and it rounded off a very enjoyable season for The Cavaliers.

Team: Jimmy Marchant (capt), Jason Duffy (v.capt), Jonathan Thomas (wkt), Andrew Steadman, Glenn Chapman, Nigel Adams, Jonathan Davies, Alistair Steadman, Graeme Brown, Steve Davis, Michael McVeigh

Barry Athletic, Sun 20 Sep. Lost by 6 wickets. Cav 206/7 (40ovs, J Thomas 107, Marchant 32, D Parsons 20, S Davis 17no). BA 209/4 (38.4ovs, J Davies 2/16, Elliott 1/19)

September had brought some of the best weather of the summer and the Cavaliers travelled to Barry Island for the penultimate game of the season hopeful for a victory against a young Barry Wanderers side.

The Cavaliers batted first, with JT and Duffy opening the innings. Unfortunately, Duffy was bowled for nought, however JT had no intention of doing the same.

With double figure contributions from Jimmy Marchant, Dave Parsons and Steve Davis assisting, JT managed to score his second hundred, both of his career and this season, getting to 107 before being stumped by Phillips off the bowling of Thomas.

With hopes that 207 was a defendable target, the second innings started with JD and H Parsons opening the bowling [Ed: it appears that JD gave strong hopes of a further victory with the early of the opener and no3.]

The Cavaliers bowling maintained the sporting ethos set by the Athletic, with 9 different bowlers used.

With Griffiths getting 45, Andy Ellis (72 n.o.) and E Thomas (stranded on 49 not out) saw the Athletic through, winning with only 8 balls to spare. Champagne moment: JT reaching the century mark.

Team: Jimmy Marchant (capt), Jason Duffy (v capt), Jonathan Thomas (wkt), Jonathan Davies, Huw Parsons, Steve Davis, Wyn Pritchard, Gary Elliott, Nigel Moore, Alistair Steadman, Alisdair Fraser

Llanvapley, Sun 6 Sep. Won by 3 wickets. Llanv'y 167/5 (40ovs, Chapman 2/19, Fraser 1/8, Brown 1/12, Moore 1/27). Cav 170 for 7 (34ovs, Chapman 62, Moore 42, J Thomas 30, Pritchard 6no)

Firstly, sincerest apologies from your match reporter for the delay in getting to press. I‟d like to blame Rupert Murdoch, the Police and planned moved to Wapping for the delay in printing. Those excuses were used in school but unfortunately not accepted then. In the end they always knew the truth, too much TV. Sweeney, Dallas, Colby‟s, Chips, The Professionals, The A Team, Match of the Day, The Big Match, World of Sport, the list goes on. So much available, on only three channels. Now with all the available channels and life‟s tasks, its embarrassing to so say its only X factor that can be used as the true excuse for the delay in reporting and for that I am truly sorry.

The game however had no such delay in getting started. Preparation appeared a little, let's say, unconventional with the odd hangover amongst the team and if memory serves me right a ½ marathon also being completed the morning of the game (JT please correct me if I am wrong but it does sound impressive). Inspired by the weekend internationals and Scotland‟s world cup charge, the customary catching and fielding practice before the game went out the window. It was replaced for a larger ball of the same shape, associated with greats such as Pele, Maradona, Best, Charlton and Moore. OK then, Toshack, Giggs, Southall, Ratcliffe….Viney Jones?! (Maybe not).

The opposition won the toss and elected to bat. Still confused about the relaxed, laid back atmosphere, playing of football and no catching practice, the Cavaliers took to the field on what was a beautiful Indian Summer‟s day. I needn‟t have worried about the unorthodox warm up. It turned out to be a master stroke. The Cavaliers fielded in a manner never seen before by this match reporter. The bowling from all those that bowled was tight and had the batsman wondering whether they were in a cup final. Fraser was sending down deliveries that would have made Mr Croft himself proud (i.e. Colin and not the other more recent spinner one, that‟s right I can‟ remember his name ah Robert I think), supported by those in the field diving, kicking shining but no heading of the ball (S. Davis). Just to elaborate on this quickly, S. Davis‟ commitment to the Cavalier cause early in the season was characterised by his diving effort to prevent a certain boundary by diving and using his head to stop the ball, shear brilliance.

The Llanvapley batsmen were clearly on the back foot and it was not long before the breakthrough came. Fraser sent down a ferocious delivery for the batsman to get a slight nick which was taken oh so elegantly by JT behind the stumps. The whole team appealed but the batsman stood his ground unsure about whether he had touched. As everyone waited the umpire‟s decision, which seemed to take as long as long as getting this match report to press JD pointed out that “the echo can still be heard ringing around the ground”. No decision was made but the batsman decided to walk. Now that‟s what I like about cricket, a game for gents. Although walking, there were calls for the batsman to return if he wasn‟t sure. JD, JT, Jimmy et al all offered the batsman a lifeline. He however continued to walk demonstrating that cricket is still a game played by gents.

So the first wicket fell for 19 and it wasn‟t long before the fall of the next. In fact the following over saw Steve Davis pluck the ball from out of the heavens off the bowling of Dawkins with the score still on 19. Before Llanvapley could settle Dawkins struck again with S. Davis waiting what seemed an eternity for the ball to drop out the sky to put his “safe as „ouses” hands on the ball to take his second catch of the game with the score on 22. Llanvapley had H. Powell in at number three and he seemed to settle the team, moving the score on to 64 before the loss of their 4th wicket. G. Brown stepping up to the crease to take his first wicket assisted by N. Moore who waited even longer than S. Davis for the ball to drop out of the sky into yet another safe pair of hands. With H. Powell still at the crease, the score moved gradually on to 133 before N. Moore with only his third delivery of the game teased the batsman into hitting one straight into the hands of Fraser breaking up a partnership of 74 between H. Powell and R. Kirby. Llanvapley moved the score on to 167 for 5 off of their 40 over‟s with Powell scoring an unbeaten 68 and R. Kirby scoring 36. Following the delightful and quite impressive lunch provided by the Cavaliers JT and N. Moore were put in to set about the Llanvapley score. JT got off to a flyer scoring 30 off 17 balls hitting three 4‟s and a 6 before losing his wicket with the score on 39. In to bat came G. Chapman who along with N. Moore steadily pushed the score along eating away at the Llanvapley score. Both Chapman and Moore looked comfortable at the wicket and the Cavaliers were in a commanding position reaching 50 off 8 overs.

With the score on 133 Llanvapley felt that change was needed and brought on Morgan to bowl. With his first ball of the game he took the wicket of Moore who had scored 42. So 133 for 2 with Chapman still at the wicket, who had already reached his 50, there appeared little concern among the watching Cavaliers. In to bat came Rabbit who watched helplessly as Chapman was caught lbw from the bowling of Morgan in only his 2nd over. Still very little to worry about as there were over‟s spare and plenty of batting to come. J. Marchant was next to bat and with the score on 142 still nothing to worry about. Morgan however had other ideas and took the wicket of the skipper. At that point Morgan had bowled two over taking 3 wickets. Wanting a piece of the action Llanvapley brought on Carpenter who had immediate effect taking the wicket of S. Davis with the 1st ball of his spell. JD stepped up to the plate, the Cav‟s still in a strong position. Carpenter wasn‟t having any of it and bowled JD as Llanvapley pushed for the victory. A. Fraser was next to bat and dispatched Carpenter for 4 on the last ball of the over sending out a message that the Cavalier‟s were not going to lie down. Morgan stepped up to bowl again and took his third wicket, that of Fraser. Between the two, Morgan and Carpenter took five Cavalier wickets for a total of 16 runs.

Rabbit still at the wicket had made an invaluable 6 runs. Dawkins came into bat with the Cavalier‟s still needing 8 runs to win. After a dramatic twist seeing Llanvapley take 5 wickets in quick succession, saw a spell of n/b‟s and wide‟s. This left 3 needed to which Dawkins obliged by hitting a 4. The Cavaliers reached their target of 168 with five over‟s remaining. This thrilling encounter saw the Cavaliers reach a land mark with a record breaking season.

Champagne moment goes to S. Davis while waiting for his catch, having time to fix his shin pads making sure they were in position before the ball dropped into his hands.

Team: Jimmy Marchant (capt), Jason Duffy (v.capt), Dave Parsons (wkt), Jonathan Thomas, Alisdair Fraser, Jonathan Davies, Gary Elliott, Alistair Steadman, Huw Parsons, Steve Davis, Wyn Pritchard

Chartered Trust, 27 Aug. Lost by 19 runs. Trust retain the "Ashes" with a 2-1 series victory. CT 117/7 (15ovs, Marchant 3/11, Carpenter 2/13, J Davies 1/18. McVeigh 1/23). Cav 98/7 (15ovs, Chapman 36, J Thomas 14, Marchant 14no)

On a cloudy and overcast evening with a damp outfield with grass as long as the england zaire football match of the 70's and a green wicket that would light up any seam bowlers eyes, it was decided that the 'ASHES' decider would be contested over 15 overs with bowlers using the same end to beat the deteriorating light.

Cavaliers won the toss and decided to field first, with J. Davies taking an excellent return catch off his bowling to dismiss the opener Sen the portents looked good for the Cavaliers. This brought to the wicket Mohring to accompany Bishop who both took advantage of the bowling to strike some impressive boundaries, particularly the left handed Bishop who picked up several leg sided sixes with ease.

This rattled the total along until both, attempting to repeat the shots, were caught inches inside the boundary on both occasions by some impressive catching by Jason, off the bowling of Mcveigh and Marchant respectively.(champagne moments perhaps). With their dismissals and three wickets from J.Marchant and two from P.Carpenter the visitors were restricted to a respectable 117 off their 15 overs.

In reply the hosts began well with some impressive striking of the bowling from G. Chapman, hitting several boundaries and a solid start from opener J.Thomas the reply began well, until Thomas was caught off Sen for 14.Then with the introduction of the bowling of Bishop the Cavaliers wickets began to fall, with N. Adams, Chapman and J Duffy all succumbing to his sharper pace. With Bristow bowling D. Parsons and Mohring bowling J. Davies for low scores the run out of Mcveigh made the the chase perely academic. With skipper Marchant and Carpenter at the crease at the end the Cavaliers fell 19 runs short at the end of their 15 overs.

Alas like all ashes matches there has to be a winner and loser (even if it‟s a draw) and this year we decided to pick up the award.

Champagne moment: Jason‟s brace of catches – just when you thought you had the champagne moment sorted with his first one, he conjures up another.

Team: Jimmy Marchant (capt), Jason Duffy (vice capt), Jonathan Thomas (wkt), Dave Parsons, Jonathan Davies, Paul Carpenter, Michael McVeigh, Nigel Moore, Huw Parsons, Nigel Adams, Glenn Chapman

South Wales Sri Lankans, Sun 23 Aug. Lost by 43 runs. SWSL 210/8 (40ovs, Adams 4/50, McVeigh 2/13, Armstrong 1/17). Cav 167/4 (40ovs, McVeigh 101, Armstrong 32)

The Cavaliers arrived at the Cathedral School following early morning showers eager to get their teeth back in to the longer format of the game after the disappointing cancellation of last weekend‟s match. The selectors had not taken the same path as their ECB counterparts though, making wholesale changes at selection. JT in as Captain (Cyril Marchant missing his 1st game of the season), DP with the gloves and a debut for Rich Faller (don‟t think he‟s South African).

Most importantly while the England selectors shunned Mark Ramprakash, Jimmy et al turned to Wazza Armstrong to bolster the batting, he duly showed that he had never lost the hunger for his cricket. JT won the toss and elected to field, all we were missing was a new ball that Jason had forgotten to pass on to Grizz and Mike McVeigh, a late comer after indulging in Birthday celebrations the previous night.

The Sri Lankans started their innings steadily as Gus Fraser and Grizz bowled accurately, supported by good fielding that was kept up throughout. Fraser finished his first spell with the impressive figures of 4-0-10-0, and was replaced at the Pavillion end by McVeigh who, being punished for his lateness, was treated to an 8 over spell by JT. Grizz removed opener Dayton-Jones caught by the razor sharp D Parsons behind the stumps who removed the bails too just to add confusion to the affair.

The next wicket fell to a run out executed by debutant Rich Faller, with a razor sharp throw into the keeper‟s gloves and minimum effort needed to complete the run out. Both Rich and Chris Heighway fielded excellently, with sliding stops and good arms showing what youth can bring to the Cavaliers cause!

Not wishing to be outdone JT took a nonchalantly Havers-esque catch at mid on to give Grizz another wicket, while Mike McVeigh wheeled away with beautiful rhythm and not much luck. Fari was looking dangerous and unleashed some lovely drives before lofting one toward long on where Grizz running round, dived, clutching the ball to his chest to remove the danger man. Our Northern Ireland correspondent, bearded today, but not voiced over (Gerry Adams - get it?) completed his spell with the very respectable figures of 8-2-13-2.

At the other end the bowling was changed regularly and Brownie (0-28) Gog (0-26) and Rabbit (0- 29) took a bit of tap from Coles, who top scored with an impressive 56, and his supporting batsmen. There was a missed run out which may have kept the score down, when Heighway winged the ball in to the keeper, however Dave could only deflect the ball off the glove into himself, and went down clutching the wrong balls.

Wily Shark Wazza replaced Mike and picked up 1-17 also suffering from some sumptuous classical batting from Chris Storkesinghe. Grizz returned to pick up 2 further wickets and the Sri Lankans innings closed on 210-8.

Due to building work at the school the dining room was unavailable so we reverted to type and ate al fresco [Ed: is that a twin brother of al fraser …]. Tea was unveiled by the players as the Cavaliers tea lady who appeared during the 1st innings neglected their duties. The fare was varied as usual with the addition of Corned Beef, Cucumber and Pickle sarnies and ham, cheese and mustard rolls. Mrs Grizz‟s sandwiches were praised by the Sri Lankans opening bowler, I wonder if he‟d made them himself the compliment would have been the same? As is tradition the Skipper also provided the Viennese Whirls.

Suitably fed the Cavaliers reply was opened by Parsons and McVeigh. Parsons pulled his first ball from Fari for 4 but was then resolute and textbook in defence until a slower ball bowled him without adding to his score. Wazza‟a return was at no3 and he joined McVeigh and looked as if he‟d never been away from the moment he marked guard by banging the bail into the wicket. While the batsmen were slow to get going the Sri Lankans changed the bowling and until drinks the match was far from riveting, so much so that Al Fraser was actually asleep on the boundary.

McVeigh was “Hanging” at drinks as a result of the previous night‟s escapades but carried on and soon got into his stride. Warwick took the lead after drinks and Mahil was dealt with cruelly with his last over going for plenty including a sweetly struck 6 from Mike that endangered the crowd and the new additions to the pavilion behind the bowlers head. Wazza eventually fell for 32 and Rich Faller strode to the wicket. A few wild swipes saw him pirouetting like an ice dancer and he soon got the ball away to get off the mark. On 2, however, another full blooded swing saw him injure a shoulder and retire hurt on debut, surely a Cavaliers first.

Grizz strode to the wicket as Mike moved on through the 80‟s, now scoring freely all round the wicket. A brace of boundaries saw him move within touching distance of 100. All watching were getting nervous but McVeigh (he really needs a nickname!) was looking cool, another 4 took him to 99 and then a push through mid on saw him through to his hundred, a classy knock with the second 50 coming far more easily than the first. Mike was bowled on 101 and returned to the pavilion to great applause.

This presented Chris Heighway with his 1st knock for the club, and he duly played and missed a straight one first ball, leaving JT to face Brian‟s hat-trick ball. In true fashion the skipper for the day plundered it over extra cover for 4, leaving the Cavaliers well short on 166-5. A small number retired to the Butchers, (no jugs, they don‟t have any!) to celebrate another Cavaliers centurion and to take in the highlights of a different game of cricket that also finished that day. England vs who did you say....

Champagne moment: Mike‟s straight 6 into new plastic slatting on pavilion that almost decapitated a watching mate of Faller and Heighway

Team: Jonathan Thomas (capt), Dave Parsons (wkt), Michael McVeigh, Nigel Adams, Richard Faller*, Chris Heighway, Graeme Brown, Warwick Armstrong, Steve Davis, Alasdair Fraser, Wyn Pritchard * denotes debutant

Highways Hurricanes (C&H Trophy), Tue 18 Aug. Lost by 8 wickets. C&H Trophy shared at 1-1. Cav 125/7 (18 ovs, Marchant 26, Adams 22, McVeigh 21no, Chapman 13). HH 126/2 (17ovs, Marchant 1/23)

[match report never received]

Team: Jimmy Marchant (capt), Jason Duffy (v.capt), Jonathan Thomas (wkt), Glenn Chapman, Dave Parsons, Nigel Adams, Jonathan Davies, Michael McVeigh, Alisdair Fraser, James Gardner, Nigel Moore, Wyn Pritchard

* Penarth, Sun 16 Aug. Penarth unable to raise a team

Owing to a clash with a 6-a-side tournament held over from the previous weekend due to bad weather, Penarth were unable to fulfil this fixture with us and there was insufficient notice to arrange alternative opposition

Chartered Trust ("Ashes"), Thu 13 Aug. Lost by 63 runs. "Ashes" series level at 1-1 with one game to play. CT 150/6 (18ovs, Marchant 2/20, C Evans 2/42, Fraser 1/22, Elliott 1/23). Cav 87/8 (18ovs, J Thomas 19, D Parsons 13, Moore 11no)

The Ashes, 1-0 up with 2 to play, who could lose it from here......

A beautiful summer‟s evening met the teams at the Cathedral School for the second match of the 2009 „Ashes‟ series against Chartered Trust. The opposition won the toss, and chose to bat on a wicket that was sure to slow up.

Hobbs and Pickernel opened up, facing the bowling of Jason and Gog. We had the early advantage with a tight opening few overs; Duffy keeping the ball well up to the bat and Gog causing problems with changes of pace. As has been a problem this season though, we couldn‟t turn the pressure into early wickets and the run rate began to grow after Jason finished with 0-6 from 3 and Gog, who was punished in his last over ending with 0-22.

As it was an Ashes encounter Jimmy turned to Gary (who was remarkably quiet about Headingley). The breakthrough came in his opening over, with Hobbs hitting in the air to Jimmy at extra cover who took a simple, regulation catch ... well, he dropped a sitter over his shoulder before pirouetting like a teenage gymnast before pouching the ball inches from the floor behind him. 34-1.

At the other end, Al was bowling beautifully, after some early complaints about it being too sunny, beating the bat with bounce and movement, and having an under edge fall just short of JT behind the stumps. It was only a matter of time before he took the edge of Pickernel‟s bat, caught behind for 20.

McVeigh struggled for length and line, with the left handed Sadiq causing problems for all the bowlers. Norn Iron‟s finest was taken off after an over, releasing Evans for an eventful spell. Serving up his usual mixed bag he was lucky to get a second over! However, Jimmy‟s faith was repaid when Evans, after bowling a rank long hop took a sharp return catch. Sadiq was gone for a rapid 48. The run rate stayed high before S Mohring holed out to a fine catch by Gary at deep extra, leaving me with the bizarre figures of 3-0-42-2! Jimmy bowled a fine, tight spell at the end, with 2 bowled in the last over. We were set 151 to win off 18.

A new opening partnership took to the field for Cavaliers, with Mike and Dave given the responsibility to lead the chase. McVeigh, as we‟ve come to expect timed the ball well, but struggled to beat the field before being bowled by C Mohring for 2. Grizz followed swiftly to the same bowler, caught by Dooley and we were struggling at 15-2. JT came in and tried to push on before both he Dave were bowled by Dooley for 13 and 19 respectively.

Nigel showed the benefit of a straight bat, playing the ball on merit to be there at the end, but after Gary and Jimmy were the first of Hassan‟s wickets we were in even bigger trouble, 67-6 and well behind the rate. Al, having declared his intention to hit a 6 this season fell to a stunning piece of fielding. Having smacked the ball high to long on, C Mohring and another fielder converged on the ball, Mohring taking the catch just as they collided but managing to hang on.

Jason, batting down the order, fell in comedy fashion in the last over, nicking behind off Hassan, beaten by the second bounce of a wide long hop. We finished on 87/8 off our 18. A disappointing defeat after the early promise and leading to a 2 week long press speculation about who should be brought in to shore up the middle order.

Champagne Moment: Annoyingly I produce a decent bit of fielding when I‟m writing the bloody report so I can‟t get it for my caught and bowled [Ed: this is purely frustrated modesty on the part of the reporter as there is no such restriction contained in the Editorial policy and style guidelines]. Jimmy‟s catch was gymnastic in the extreme but was only necessary because of his earlier incompetence (sorry Skip!). JD will be glad to note, that despite being given several opportunities and being egged on throughout, never once was „Run „em up‟ heard from Jez at the scorer‟s table [Ed: which just goes to show that when the Cavaliers run 'em up, young Jez doesn't need to offer coaching from the sidelines ...] Which leaves, and I know it should be a Cavaliers moment ... but Craig‟s catch to dismiss Al was as good a piece of cricket that has been seen at the Cathedral School for a while [Ed: or rather, "seen by the reporter" as this year has seen many memorable pieces of excellent cricketing prowess but a potent mixture of rain abandonments and the Evans kids have impacted on his attendance.]

Porkpie Moment: The idiot pikey [Ed: this is used in the loosest way possible and should not be taken to describe any particular faith, ethnic, creed or racial stereotype] who decided it would be a good idea to jump over the fence and pinch the bike of one of the rugby squad. I hope for his sake he could run faster than 40 blood thirsty egg chasers!

Team: Jimmy Marchant (capt), Jason Duffy (v.capt), Jonathan Thomas (wkt), Michael McVeigh, Dave Parsons, Nigel Moore, Gary Elliott, Alisdair Fraser, Chris Evans, Steve Davis, Nigel Adams

GE Healthcare (Willow League Plate), Tue 11 Aug. Won by 8 wickets. Cavaliers 2pts, GE 0pts. Cavaliers win the Willow Plate. GE 82/6 (18ovs, Duffy 2/7, Dawkins 2/12, Marchant 1/11). Cav 83/2 (12ovs, Steadman jnr 45, Marchant 30no)

With a quirk of the fixture card allied to the wet weather giving us a 1 point advantage over the other unbeaten team in this year‟s Plate competition, Cardiff Bay Barbarians, we knew that slide rules and log tables would not be required and that a simple win would land us our first piece of silverware for this season.

We‟d suffered a little disruption to the original team selection when ailments, non-availability and illness struck but – and this is testament to the great spirit within the club – others appeared at short notice, including Riaz who answered the call on the morning of the game itself.

There were changes afoot at the Cathedral School too, with a plastic portico over the front of the changing room, which will afford much welcome cover, and low fencing around the paved area which means that it will be easier to keep the autograph hunters at bay.

GE has struggled all season to get a team out and tonight they were short-handed, with just nine. However, as one of these had to disappear at 7pm to honour a promise to his children to take them to the new Leckwith [Ed: one could almost hear the bemoaning of the old timers “soccer season never used to start until cricket had finished, in my day”] which meant that the Cavaliers supporters numbered as many as the entire GE team. [Ed: it was great to see such a good turnout, led by Chairman JT, Glyn, Glenn, Brownie, Jez, Warwick, Candace and „Maggie‟].

Jimmy had no hesitation, on winning the toss, and following the trusty method for much of this season of inserting the opposition. The opening bowlers – Jason and Mike McVeigh – were right on the button from the first ball, Mike especially getting a good deal of swing that made the batsman watchful. However, it was a horlicks moment that led to the first wicket, a tentative poke at one of Mike‟s swingers that got a bit big on him, lobbed in the air but just out of reach of two fielders. A run is on, the batsman thought, and it might well have been if there‟d been anything resembling sensible calling. The inevitable mix-up mid-wicket meant an easy run out was on the cards with an accurate throw, but the keeper somehow managed to fumble it, dropped the ball, tried to scoop it on the stumps – missed – but then, much to Dave‟s relief, managing to regather it and break the stumps with the batsman still out of his ground.

Their No3 tried a few meaty blows before trying to pull one too many across the line and top-edged an easy ct&bw chance for the skipper. This was followed soon after by a lovely delivery from Michael Dawkins that moved away off the pitch just enough to make the batsman play towards leg and took the top of off stump beautifully. In a good rhythm Mike then had their No5 caught behind by Dave. At 34/3 and half the overs gone too, GE would have to hit the accelerator if they were to post any sort of challenging total on a pitch that has oozed oodles of runs this year.

The excellent out-fielding, especially Gary Elliott in the deep whose speed to the ball and return of throw turned 3s into 2s, allied to the parsimonity of Adams and the return at the end of Mike M and Jason, who took two wickets in 3 balls bowling at the death, put paid to any ambitions GE may have had. Duffy‟s final wicket also heralded a wonderous sight – that of Gog taking a catch in the field (rather than behind the stumps, where he had played for so many years) at a sort of deep gully/short 3rd man position. He kept his eyes on it all the way and when it was safely pouched gave a little “whoop”, a jig of delight and smiles all round.

83 should not be a problem and with only 8 men on the field after a little circumspection to make sure they judged the pace and bounce of the pitch accurately, Steaders and Jimmy were soon in to their stride. Picking off the singles in an interestingly set 5-1 off-side field, with their bowlers trying to bowl wide-ish of off stump, but still threading the field to the boundary and, when the bowler‟s line erred, sending it deep on the leg side for 3s and 4s.

It was a surprise when Steaders was out with 67 on the board and another half century beckoning but it was a good catch by young Gane tumbling low. Andy‟s 45 had come off just 36 balls and included 6 fours. Dave misjudged a slow ball and Grizz was not required to even face a delivery as Jimmy had 3 fours in rapid succession to put the matter beyond any doubt, finishing with a personal tally of 30 including 4 fours.

It was a convincing win but then we‟ve been like that whenever we‟ve won, with only a few nightmare matches all season in the Willow competitions. What has been different, perhaps, this year is that due to injuries and availability crises many more players have featured in the starting line-ups, including several of the newcomers – there‟ll be many memorable moments to recall at the dinner [Ed: Friday 30 Oct – booking forms out soon], such as Chris Evans and Paul Carpenter seeing us across the line in the Cup quarter final, Mike Dawkins brace of wickets tonight, James Gardner‟s first ball as a Cavalier which dismissed South Glam‟s John Sparks, any of Mike M‟s cover drives, Al‟s appealing, Gary's athletic fielding, to name just a few.

Champagne moment: despite some lovely deliveries from our bowling attack (with mentions in dispatches for Messrs Dawkins, Duffy, Adams and McVeigh in particular), delightful strokes from our opening duo and the little punch in the air from the skipper when the victory run was completed and the Plate secured, this game‟s moment goes to the catch by Gog – not the catch itself, mind, but the look of sheer surprise, delight and exultation when he realised that he‟d held it, and without recourse to pads or juggling either – good on yer.

Team: James Marchant (capt), Jason Duffy (vice capt), Dave Parsons (wkt), Andrew Steadman, Nigel Adams, Riaz Anwar, Michael McVeigh, Steve Davis, Michael Dawkins, James Gardner, Gary Elliott

Uni Staff (Willow League Plate), Thu 6 Aug. Won by 9 wickets. Cavaliers 2pts, Uni Staff 0pts. Uni 90/5 (18ovs, Marchant 2/3, Duffy 1/6, Adams 1/15). Cav 91/1 (14.5ovs, A Steadman jnr 47no, Marchant 34no)

University Staff batted first, but not before Jimmy Marchant had gathered his team into a huddle to focus his players; and player-coach Brownie had advised that the last Cavaliers game he watched we had chased down 150, and that we should always therefore try to stay in the game, however seemingly hopeless our cause may become.

Jonathan Davies and Jason Duffy immediately put pressure on the batting side, with the run rate being kept to a minimum. This led to the fall of Morgan, bowled by Duffy for 2. With Marchant bringing himself on to bowl, he claimed the wickets of Lord, LBW for 6, and Hewitt, clean bowled for 10.

It was likely that Uni Staff would try to launch a counter attack and, to some extent, they achieved this, with Jones (39 not out) and Goodman (16) combining to take Uni Staff to a reasonable total. Adams had bowled well, flighting the ball cleverly to bowl Goodman, and James Gardner bowled a suitable “line and length” to restrict scoring opportunities. Dawkins bowled reasonably, but nevertheless any stray bowling of his was punished by the University Staff side. Then Steadman was given an over, but it proved expensive enough for Marchant not to risk giving him another. Instead he turned to the trusty James Gardner and Jonathan Davies to bowl the final overs.

Gardner bowled steadily and managed to curtail the Uni Staff batsmen, whilst Jonathan Davies, who had bowled two very tight overs at the start of the innings, found himself being unjustly clubbed to the boundary from his final 2 deliveries. Uni Staff had scored a competitive 90 for 5 from their allotted 18 overs, but it was a target that we felt we could comfortably achieve it we kept wickets intact.

Between innings player-coach Brown again asserted the need for his team to remain calm in the face of any adversity and to play sensible cricket. It was about this time that The Cavaliers side were graced with the presence of none other than Warwick Armstrong, who remained until the conclusion of the game. He witnessed Jonathan Thomas and Andrew Steadman start the Cavaliers‟ innings.

Thomas, after demonstrating his fantastic hand-eye coordination and his natural ability to time the ball, with a shot through midwicket that found the boundary, then fell victim to a delivery from Grosvenor, which bowled him for 6.

This brought Marchant to the wicket. He and Steadman were glad to rotate the strike, settling for ones and twos against the better deliveries, and striking boundaries when given the opportunity. Without too much alarm, they were able to steer the Cavaliers to a comfortable victory, with nine wickets and 3.1 overs in hand. Marchant finished with 34 not out from 34 balls (including 3 fours and a 6), and Steadman made 47 not out from 46 balls (including 4 fours).

Champagne moment: the very welcome presence of Warwick Armstrong

Team: Jimmy Marchant (capt), Jason Duffy (vice capt), Jonathan Thomas (wkt), Gary Elliott, Graeme Brown, Michael Dawkins, Andrew Steadman, Jonathan Davies, James Gardner, Paul Carpenter, Nigel Adams

Cardiff Bay Barbarians (Willow Plate). Tue 4 Aug. Match cancelled - 1 pt each

Cancelled - rain

Teddington (Tour match). Sun 2 Aug. Lost by 264 runs. Ted’n 360/5 (35ovs, Marchant 2/72, Gardner 1/28, J Davies 1/47, Dawkins 1/49). Cav 96/9 (27.5ovs, Fraser 23, Marchant 17, J Thomas 10)

Battle of Bushy Park, Teddington

Despite the soldiers prayers of the night before the day dawned fair at the Alexander Pope Hotel Twickenham and some of the 12 battle hardened Cavaliers regiment managed to arrive down the “ Apples & Pears “ to partake of a cup of “ Rosie Lee “ opposite the banks of the Thames. Some of the over-indulged, who had partaken of Pimms and Sambucca stayed in bed to cuddle up and get some sleep before the campaign trek around Bushy Park took place later that day.

It was unfortunate that the previous evening while enjoying a session in the Cricketers “ rub a dub dub “ at Richmond that Sapper “Rabbit” Pritchard was initially believed taken by a sniper and fell off his bench, smiting his Tenko shoulder a hefty blow. Some thought the sniper, who had taken one or two in the game Friday, had struck again but this time the “ wily old bugger “had been mentally overcome by Pimms and as he put it “ all the other muck they had been drinking “ that day . First on the scene was Chief Medical Officer Dawkins who assessed the injured comrade and declared him “ Brahms & List “ and unfit for duty and despatched him with the two Senior orderlies Brown and Davis back to barracks for R&R. He was examined on arrival by the two orderlies and found to have taken one for the boys, he was awarded the order of the boot and confined to quarters for the night.

This event reduced the party to 11available players, some of whom were carrying injuries from other campaigns, mainly Major Chapman and Gunner Twaits who had both been shot through the knee in previous battles. The fact that the brigade was low in numbers was a great shame as Major Chapman had put together a marvellous battle plan with superb accommodation in a lovely area and good battles to be waged. at renowned battlefields of London. Indeed the first battle Friday was at the site of the experiments for Barnes Wallace‟s famous “ bouncing bomb “. Not a lot of people know that “and the facilities at the ground and subsequent barbecue was excellent, this has warranted a commendation for the Major who deserves the brigades thanks.

The troops took off in convoy for the ground at 13.15 hours, Sunday and had one skirmish when Sergeant Jiffy - Beefy Davies made a surprise attack at the traffic lights leaping from his jeep to try and snatch Colonel JT Havers keys from his limo. The attack was repelled with words of get along there you cad and bounder you are a “Berkshire Hunt”. We then proceeded to the battlefield following the tom – tom radar location system in Major Chapmans tank. The location of the enemy proved difficult but Chapman managed to avoid a large civilian population and pinpoint the enemy.

It was agreed that 35 high calibre missiles would be launced at the opposition and battle commenced Corporal Fraser of the Bradleys launched the attack under the guidance of Captain Marchant. Supported by CMO Dawkins with 6 rounds and the enemy smacked and flayed us to all parts, B Division of Davis & Davies fared no better and other rounds fired were also dealt with by the flailing willow of Teddington‟s finest. A couple of comrades in arms were felled by heavy fire and the Major had to retire for several overs to have a wound to his rear end seen to at the “Thomas Crapper” hospital for pickled gentlemen of distinction. Some chances were missed and some taken to weaken the enemy and CMO Dawkins took a great catch, which felled him slightly with a chest wound off Captain Marchant. The Captain went on to take another wicket via a stumping by Colonel JT & the Colonel also took a sharp catch off the bowling of Sergeant “Beef” Jiffy D. Then CMO Dawkins bowled one of the enemy cavalry and young drummer boy James Tasbo Gardener bowled one Teddington grenadier with an exocet. There were 9 soldiers used to attack and their figures are as follows, Fraser 0-33, Dawkins 1-49, Davis 0-23, Marchant 6.4 overs taking over when Twaits was felled 2 -72, Duffy 0-40, Gardener 1-28, Brown 0-37, Davies 1-47 & Twaits 1.2 overs (wounded in action ) 0-13. The Teddington Brigade mustered an impressive 360 for 5 off 35 overs, this was a blow to the Regiment and morale had taken a heavy pounding from the Whistling Willows they brandished. Teddington had one centurion and 3 half centurions in their innings.

I must, between innings, report a likely court martial offence from the early hours of Sunday when orderly Davis was seeking a nature‟s call & water break at about 4 am GMT he could not believe his “mince pies” when he discovered that orderly Brown had placed his false gnashers in the drinking glass and this was discovered as they clanked against the sides when water was sought in the darkened jungle of the hotel en-suite. Needless to say Brown found this highly amusing similar to when he had delivered a lethal dose of mustard gas in the bedroom toilet that caused the return of Davis‟s breakfast on Saturday morning.

The innings of the Cavaliers commenced and all fell in action and Brown could not bat having stopped a piece of shrapnel in his hand earlier in the Teddington attack, he did this to save a comrade who was taking a flaying. Top scorer was Fraser with 23, followed by Marchant with 17, JT was the only other batsman to get into double figures with 10. All soldiers came out of the trenches to face heavy enemy fire and nobody failed to get off the mark, but in the face of the onslaught the troops surrendered at 96 for 9. Lance-Corporal Duffy tried his best but to no avail and Teddington‟s Meaty Singh was firing a straight line and claimed 3 kills, with Nicholson and D. Page two each.

The Captain‟s earlier advice at this Cockney location - was to “have a butcher‟s hook” and have a “Dicky bird” with your fellow batsman, along with using your “ loaf of bread” and speaking up if your co-batter was a bit “mutton n‟Jeff”. Also try to “half inch” some runs and not tell “pork pies” about the bowling when you got out. Finally not to spend too much time with “ rabbit & Pork” after the game and be prepared to “scarpa flow” so we can all get home.

This had been a brave rearguard against superior forces but the opposition were too strong and had modern weapons of faster and a newer manufacture.

Magic Moment – Very few on the cricket field, maybe Wyn falling off the bench the night before but more likely a good tour organised by Glenn and the possibility of a return in the future.

Touring party: Glenn Chapman (Manager), James Marchant (capt), Jason Duffy (vice capt), Jonathan Thomas, James Gardner, Wyn Pritchard, Steve Davis, Graeme Brown, Michael Dawkins, Jonathan Davies, Mark Twaits, Alasdair Fraser.

Fulham Taverners (Tour match). Fri 31 Jul. Lost by 38 runs. Tav 231/9 (40ovs, J Davies 2/20, Marchant 2/21, Fraser 1/14, Brown 1/29, Twaits 1/29, S Davis 1/33). Cav 193/7 (40ovs, Marchant 41, Fraser 34no, J Davies 22, Brown 18no, Chapman 18, Duffy 14)

The 2009 tour to Richmond started off with celebrity style. After meeting at Cardiff Gate services we stumbled across the film set of Gavin and Stacey, we did try and get our faces on the screen, but probably to no avail, my mum always said I had a face for radio. Twaits did go a little quiet and hide in Glen‟s car, was he puling a sickie? Or was Stacey‟s brother not involved in the day‟s filming.

Having left early and only having to stop once for a comfort break, (Why we had to do it on the M3 hard shoulder I don‟t know!) we arrived in the hotel well before the 1:30pm game. It must have been the shock of the quality accommodation but most of the Cavaliers convened in the bar to top up on their carbohydrate levels, though we might have to sack our nutritionist as I don‟t think Cider and black has the same effect as Powerade.

To the game, for once Jim couldn‟t lose the toss as both captains agreed that the Cavaliers would Field first. There where rumours that our skip nearly messed up that decision!

The new cherry was thrown to Gus Fraser and after 5 warm ups he finally got one onto the wicket. The warm ups must of worked because with the twinkled toed appealer drew a rash shot from the batsman and the ball was snaffled by Skips fingers and crooked other parts at mid off.

Davies and Fraser toiled with the new ball, although fairly tight, the batsman (one of who must have been Grzz‟s brother!) played straight (for which JD should have taken heed of for his innings). Fraser finished with figures of 1-14 off 4 overs. Davies with 2-20 off 5 overs.

The bowlers kept up the effort and kept a very skilful Tavners batting line up to 231-9.

After a lovely tea, (No cider on the Skippers request!) Cyril our skip sent out Chapman and Gardner (Fix up look sharp!) out to the wicket to open up the in innings. Both Batsman played exceptionally well for their scores of 18 and 12 respectively as the Tavner‟s bowling was fast and tight.

JT came in to face the left arm fast bowler who resembled Mitchell Johnson. In true form JT got his runs quickly and never took a backward step against the aggressive bowling but finally lost his wicket for 12.

JD came up to the crease and took one right on the thigh of the left hander. Wanting to cry with pain he cursed not wearing a thigh pad! (and closing his eyes!). Cyril at the other end was playing freely and looking in good nick. The spinners where soon introduced and taken to task by both JD and Cyril. The inevitable had to happen though, JD played his ubiquitous cross batted slog missing the ball and his stumps where cleaned up for 22.

Batsman came and went but everybody bar one contributed with Double figures, that is everybody bar Dawkins who was out for 4 to a scorcher.

Cyril having played himself in yet again threw it away out for 41 and it was left to Brown and Fraser to finish up the innings. And they finished it off with some style. Gus batted like a man possessed and attacked every ball hitting boundaries to all corners. Brown (Dilshan) played a superb innings manoeuvring the ball to all corners from the quick‟s. Fraser was unbeaten on 32 and Brown on 18. Although we lost by 38 runs we competed against a skilful and experienced side well.

Champaign Moment: Al “Gus” Fraser smashing the ball to all corners during his innings.

Comedy Moment: Sub fielder Twaits coming on to a comment, Come on Gary Pratt (Reference to the famous sub fielder) Brownie sharply responded with “drop the Gary and you‟d be right!”

Touring party: Glenn Chapman (Manager), James Marchant (capt), Jason Duffy (vice capt), Jonathan Thomas, James Gardner, Wyn Pritchard, Steve Davis, Graeme Brown, Michael Dawkins, Jonathan Davies, Mark Twaits, Alasdair Fraser.

Highways Hurricanes. Wed 29 Jul

Cancelled - rain

BA Dragons (Willow League Plate), Mon 27 Jul. Won as BA Dragons forfeited game. Cavaliers 2pts, BA Dragons 0pts Shift changes at BA meant they were unable to field a team

Consmen (Willow League Plate), Thu 23 Jul. Won by 8 wickets. Cavaliers 2pts, Consmen 0pts. Cons 148/2 (18ovs, Marchant 1/17). Cav 149/2 (17.1ovs, A Steadman jnr 53no, Marchant 52, Adams 17no)

Exit the clouds and enter a new competition for the latter half of the season, the Willow Plate, featuring the bottom 6 teams in the League and we faced out Cup semi-final tormentors first up. We also had a new face, Chris Heighway [Ed: he discovered us via E-bay - no need to worry, it's not the Treasurer hawking off the club silverware but Paul Carpenter had purchased something and got talking to the vendor, Chris.]

Jimmy won the toss and, after much deliberation and some uncertainty as to how the pitch would play after 3 weeks of rain, inserted the opposition - even the groundsman had been unsure what it would be like and in giving the okay to play added, "but it won't be ideal, y'know."

Al opened with JD and they applied a tourniquet straight away. JD, in particular, was tight [Ed: in the nicest sense, of course] and the pressure led to an early wicket when a whippet-sharp return from Dave in the deep saw a 2 turned into a 1and a half. Steaders and Jimmy took up the mantle but Andy Bowen was seeing the ball so well he immediately launched himself at anything with even a smidgeon of width and chanced his arm. He scored a rapid 63 at better than a run a ball and, while always keeping the bowlers and fielders interested, gave the innings a momentum that, happily for us, none of the other Consmen batsman could maintain.

Chris Heighway, after a 5 year break from playing, soon discovered that it would take more than a few warm up balls in the nets before the start for him to get his range, but gamely stuck to his task, never letting his head drop and, who knows, if a lobbed chance off his first legitimate ball had been held, how his debut over may have been transformed. Michael Dawkins bowled well at the death and also produced some excellent fielding, attributing his athleticism to a rude awakening from the Wii newly installed at home which had informed him he had the body of middle-aged veteran!

Jim took the only wicket to fall to a bowler, eventually snaring Bowen. This slowed Consmen and they found it difficult to get the ball away, finishing on 148 when they had expected much greater riches with so many wickets left in hand.

Needing just over 8 an over, not one over saw us adrift of where we needed to be with JT and Steaders giving a sure start with 26 in just 4 overs before JT attempted a paddle sweep-come-pull- come-top edge swipe and was caught at backward square. This brought the skipper to the crease and he was in blistering mood, with a scoring rate of nearly 200% - 52 runs off just 27 balls including a mighty 6 and 7 fours. He didn't yield a dot ball until his score was well into the 30s such was both the excellence of his shot placement and the great running between the wickets with Steaders.

Having added 97 for the second wicket and got the target down to just a run a ball off the final 4 overs, Jim was out trying to essay a slog-sweep, and we wondered if nerves would kick in. However, nerves is not a word in the Grizzly Adams lexicon and he was in to his stride straightaway, smiting the ball to all parts to create 2s and also saw Steaders to his 50, scored off 46 balls and included 3 fours. There was a minor alarm when both umpires thought that over 16 had comprised 6 balls when only 5 had been bowled but with 'over' called we wondered whether this might prove crucial.

Happily, the forthright batting of Grizz and Steaders made sure that it didn't come back to haunt us and the victory was brought up at the start of the final over. A fine win, given our pasting from Consmen in the Cup and sets up nicely for a tilt at the Plate title.

Champagne moment: when so many batsman seem to catch the eye of our reporters, this one plumps for the opening over of JD - every one of the 6 balls exactly on the spot, giving their opener no choice but to defend. Although the opener carried his bat for 42, he never got out of first gear after JD had made him so watchful and wary Team: Jimmy Marchant (capt), Jason Duffy (vice capt), Jonathan Thomas (wkt), Dave Parsons, Alasdair Fraser, Chris Evans, Nigel Adams, Andrew Steadman, Chris Heighway*, Jonathan Davies, Michael Dawkins * denotes debutant

Welsh Blood Service, Mon 20 Jul

Cancelled - waterlogged pitch

Sully Centurions, Sun 19 July

Cancelled - rain

GE Healthcare (Willow League), Tue 14 Jul

Cancelled - waterlogged pitch

Caerleon, Sun 5 Jul. Drawn (abandoned due to rain with Caerleon unable to start their reply). Cav 116ao (36.3ovs, Marchant 35, Moore 18, Anwar 16)

The Cavaliers arrived at Caerleon ready for a day of cricket, but prepared for possible disappointment, as a morning spent studying online weather forecasts by some players had revealed the likelihood of rain moving into the area mid-afternoon.

Having won the toss, skipper Jimmy Marchant decided the Cavaliers would bat first, opening the innings with himself and Duffy. Unfortunately, Jason was caught out early on for just the single run, bringing in JD (10), following him, Elliott was the first victim of the spin of Kumar, (LBW - 2) who had even brought his own hareem of fans to the boundary.

This brought to the crease long standing club member from Riaz Anwar, with Jimmy departing (35) the even longer serving S Davis entered the fray, only to depart without scoring (0),the old boys network continued to dominate the match however, with the arrival of Nigel Moore. With the fall of Anwar (16) brought McVeigh, pushing the score along until the rain started, and play halted.

With the opposition claiming local knowledge that it would only be a shower, tea was taken with the premise play would continue straight through after.

The excitement for the tea had been building over the whole of the innings so far as the on looking Cavaliers had witnessed the Caerleon „tea man‟ bringing out cakes, pies, ham and all sorts, making up one of the finest teas ever laid out.

After this, the match would be a major anticlimax. McVeigh (11), the rabbit (4) and Huw (2) were all out on resumption, leaving JT stranded on zero.

Before the Caerleon innings could start a much heavier storm began, complete with thunder and lightning.

With news that a footballer had previously fallen victim to a lightning strike at the ground (sometime between 30 & 3 years ago, depending on who‟s word you took) the match was abandoned.

Champagne moment: [Ed: none nominated as nothing on the field, I understand, could possible equal, let alone surpass, the magnificent tea - same again, plse, next year Mr Fixture Man]

Team: Jimmy Marchant (capt), Jason Duffy (vice capt), Jonathan Thomas (wkt), Jonathan Davies, Nigel Moore, Gary Elliott, Riaz Anwar, Steve Davis, Michael McVeigh, Huw Parsons, Wyn Pritchard.

Consmen (Willow League Cup semi-final), Thu 2 Jul. Lost by 88 runs. Cons 155/5 (18ovs,D Parsons 2/19, Duffy 1/14, Marchant 1/14, A Steadman jnr 1/14). Cav 67ao (10ovs, A Steadman jnr 27no, Adams 10)

On a muggy and overcast evening at the Cathedral School the rain held off for the Cup semi final between the Cavaliers and the Consmen. The Consmen arrived well stocked up on sausage rolls, pasties, scotch eggs etc ... after one of their players tried to appease his teammates after the guilty party committed the sin of forfeiting a match recently due to an administrative error! [Ed: perhaps we could rent out the Oracle to them …] The Cavaliers supporters turned up in the droves aka barmy army ... that is if you count Mark and his dog and another chap and his girlfriend.

The Cavaliers Glenn Chapman having to pull out due to injury and being replaced by Richard Davies it was all set up for an evenly matched encounter (famous last words). Cavaliers skipper Jimmy won the toss and put the Consmen in to bat. Mike opened the bowling and after struggling with some wide deliveries gave only 7 off his 2 allocated overs. With JD opening from the other end and first and second change Al and Jimmy respectively both trying hard to break the opening stand of Skirrow and Martin. D Skirrow retired on 27 and D Martin 26, they both looked at ease at the crease punishing anything wayward and it wasn't until the score reached 71 did a chance arise when skipper Jimmy missed a very difficult catch off the bowling of Fraser.

With the retirement of the openers came the impressive hitting of the left handed J Morgan who took a personal interest in the bowling of Chris hitting 3 sixes before himself retiring. It was only with the introduction of the bowling of Steaders that the first (at last! ... I had already eaten my way through several sausage rolls by now) wicket fell on 92 in the 13th over when Bowen was trapped lbw. Dave Parsons came on and managed to take the wicket of S Head via a catch from the skipper and two smart stumpings from JT stemmed the tide a little with the score on 118 and 122. However this brought to the crease J Corden who managed to swing away taking 21 off one over! This took the Consmen total to an impressive 155 -5 off their 18 overs with three batsmen retired.

In reply the Cavaliers opened with JT and Steaders, Steaders in particular played some deft shots accompanied by some highly enthusiastic running between the wickets (tactful). Pace was the order of the day with the introduction of J Corden to the bowling, firstly bowling comprehensively JT and Jimmy in successive balls with Dave Parsons saving the hat -trick. Steaders took his score on to 25 before retiring but with Parsons being run out with score on 40 and McVeigh being bowled the victory total now seemed a massive ask.

With some very tight fielding resulting in another run out, this time Fraser, suddenly it was 58-7 off 8 overs. (The consumption of another scotch egg eased the disappointment of the 12th man) With Jason brilliantly caught one handed to surely the catch of the day (a champagne moment for them) off Parker and Chris bowled by a delivery that bounced twice (flat jack simmons circa 1970s) Steaders returned to the crease on 62-9 to perform a Bothamesque century aka 1981 ... alas no ... Richard top edged one to end the innings. Cavaliers all out for 67 in 10 overs. Losing by 88 runs.

According to the Wisden cricket annals (Grizz) I am reliably informed that 65 is the lowest score in the Cavaliers illustrious history ... anyone for a scotch egg? ... [Ed: it is always a wonder how fresh-faced newcomers succumb so readily to the silky tongued charm of Mr Adams that anything he says they find completely plausible ... ]

Champagne moment: [Ed: none nominated by our reporter so it must be the way he shielded his 3rd jam tart at the long off boundary edge while evading one of Corden‟s sixes]

Team: Jimmy Marchant (capt), Jason Duffy (vice capt), Jonathan Thomas (wkt), Mike McVeigh, Richard Davies, Dave Parsons, Alasdair Fraser, Chris Evans, Nigel Adams, Andrew Steadman, Jonathan Davies. 12th man: Paul Carpenter

Rhiwbina (Willow League), Tue 30 Jun. Won by 4 wickets. Cavaliers 12pts, Rhiwbina 3pts. Rhw 138/3 (20ovs, McVeigh 1/6, D Parsons 1/12, A Steadman jnr 1/19). Cav 142/6 (19.4ovs, J Thomas 43, Marchant 21, A Steadman jnr 18)

With the Cavaliers‟ third midweek on the road going after Wenvoe and St Fagans it was surprising that still one Cavaliers (Steadman) „homed in‟ on the Cathedral School delaying his arrival [Ed: this comes as no surprise really as Steaders has „previous‟ having arrived very late at Bristol earlier int eh season despite reassuring the Oracle that of course he knew the way there as he‟d driven to the venue last year …]. Your scribe [Ed: and twelfth man, thus underscoring yet again how vital this role is for the club] for the night took to the field for 3 uneventful, for him, overs before young Steaders arrived.

More eventful was the opening bowling of McVeigh and Duffy. The Ulsterman was in particularlt fiery mood, ripping the ball off the seam and getting a deserved wicket ending conceding 6 runs off his 4 overs. With the score at 20-1 from 7, Rhiwbina had no choice but to “go for it”.

This they did against a variety of bowlers who, whilst not completely getting torn apart, were grateful for the early economy. The 100 came up as late as the 16th over which was a good cavalier performance on a spongy wicket. Two late wickets saw Rhiwbina ending on 138-3 with the opener Sutton completing 68no with a 6 off the last ball.

The Cavaliers reply was up to the required run rate with Steaders steady and JT in belligerent mood, looking for boundaries to offset the discomfort of running for runs. He fell for 43 with the score on 72 in the 9th over, job done. Steaders feel soon after and the skipper and Jamie took up the cudgels and took the side to 110 in the 16th.

Then things took an interesting turn in two balls. Firstly, Jamie holed out in the deep to a fine skyer and, having crossed, the skip took the next ball against the wily spinner, lofted into the deep and holed out to another fine catch in a similar position to a different fielder. A kit bag took an battering from an angry Marchant [Ed: happily, we can advise readers that no animals were harmed in the making of this petulance …] and no-one nearby had the balls to say anything but it was funny as f***!

Meanwhile Messrs Parsons (D) and McVeigh both faced like openers and with 29 off 4, runs were scored, wickets fell and lower order batsmen padded up hastily. It was 20 off 3, 13 off 2 and 4 off 1. It was close in the end with victory ensured with 2 balls to spare at 9.11pm, not quite as late as at St Fagans and certainly not as late as Murray but we don‟t have floodlights!

Champagne moment: [Ed:none nominated]

Team: Jimmy Marchant (capt), Jason Duffy (vice capt), Jonathan Thomas (wkt), Andrew Steadman, Michael McVeigh, Dave Parsons, Jamie Smith, Alasdair Fraser, Paul Carpenter, Gary Elliott, James Gardner. 12th man: Nigel Adams

BA Dragons (Willow League), Thu 25 Jun. Won by forfeit. Cavaliers 15pts, BA Dragons 0pts

Unfortunately, due to a new shift system imposed this week at BA as a result of the economic downturn, BA Dragons were unable to raise a team and so, sadly, had to concede the League game. They did, though, notify us and the League in good time so that no pitch cancellation charges were incurred.

Cardiff Casuals (Willow League), Mon 22 Jun. Lost be 28 runs. Cavaliers 1pt, Casuals 14pts. Cas 154/4 (20ovs, Duffy 3/8, Marchant 1/28). Cav 126/6 (20ovs, A Steadman jnr 35, Chapman 19, Duffy 18no, J Davies 14)

Monday brought the annual visit to Wenvoe for a Willow League fixture against arch rivals Cardiff Casuals. It was again a case of what might have been as a promising start evaporated into a disappointing defeat.

Some of the side were commendably playing their second or third game in successive days and a late withdrawal meant that the ever reliable Glyn came in for his third appearance of his „retirement‟ season.

Jimmy won the toss and decided to insert the opposition, with the plan being to restrict them with one of the disciplined bowling performances that the team has been displaying in the recent weeks since the Eclipse Print debacle.

JD (0-19) & the skipper (1-28) opened up and bowled 2 overs each without much drama with the Casuals moving onto 31-0 from 4 overs. Our nemesis of previous seasons, Swain, looked in ominously good touch with a couple of nice boundaries but a change of bowling brought on Al and Duffy to bowl spells which looked as if would swing the game in the Cavaliers favour.

Al bowled with great effort down the hill and was unlucky not to take a wicket as he beat the bat regularly to finish with 0-21 of his 4 overs, an analysis that would have looked even better had it not been for a sweetly struck 6 from Swain which landed in a garden at long off.

From the other end, vice captain Duffy bowled his best spell of the season, including two wickets with his first 2 balls, the first caught behind by JT, and the second clean bowled. He then proceeded to test the batsmen with full pitched deliveries, particularly terrorising Pike, whom he eventually snared in his last over, finishing with 3-8 from 4 overs, throwing a maiden in for good measure.

At this point the Casuals were 61-3 off 12 overs and the momentum was definitely with us. Swain however had other ideas and over the next 6 overs thrashed the bowling to all corners of a ground which suddenly felt as if it was shrinking, such was his display of clean hitting. Paul (0-17), James (0-17) and Glenn (0-15) all tried and failed to stem the flow and when Jimmy finally C&B Swain he had clubbed 87 off not much more than 60 balls.

Glyn (0-9) and Dave (0-9) came on to bowl out and to their credit reined the scoring in as Smith & Hand resorted to running everything in the last 2 overs. Glyn in particular was unlucky not to pick up a stumping as the ball just failed to sit up for JT on 2 occasions, and the Casuals eventually closed their innings on 154-4.

Although the fielding performance was pretty decent, honourable mentions must go to Dave, Jimmy and James who all excelled, with James in particular showing great commitment in only his second game when sliding to stop the ball on the boundary. The result was a nasty blow to the shin and added to what seems to be constant flow of Cavaliers walking wounded this season.

After a quick turnaround Steaders and JT began the run chase and after getting the total up into double figures JT (4) was unlucky to be caught & bowled with Lewis taking a cracking low catch in front of him as he followed through.

Jimmy joined Steaders and together they took the score onto 41 with some clever running and nice cut shots before Jimmy (5) was surprised by a ball that got big on him and gloved one behind.

Glenn (19) was next in and the score moved on to 80 before Stephens struck a blow by removing both batsmen in the 13th over, Steaders, caught at cover trying to increase the scoring rate, for a fluent 35 and Glenn, clean bowled from the last ball of the over.

This brought Dave and Jason together, and with the required rate now over 10 an over Dave (4) was next out trying to deflect the ball over point. JD strode to the crease to replace him and after 3 lusty boundaries and a close run out, when a full length dusty dive resulted in him just making his ground, he took one quick run too many and was run out for 14. It was only when he was back at the boundary edge did we see just what a challenge Mrs JD is going to have getting JD‟s kit whiter than white!!

This was the last wicket to fall however as Jason (18 not out), continuing his rich vein of form, and Al (6 not out) ran well together to see out the innings in the quest for bonus points, the Cavaliers closing on 126-6.

There have been times when we would have capitulated when chasing a daunting total, so it was pleasing to bat the overs out with wickets in hand, and to finish within 30 runs of a team who bowled tightly and were well versed in plugging the large open spaces of Wenvoe.

That said, if we want to start appearing in the Shield in future years, we are going to have to learn how to start getting out the better batsmen in this league and turning decent efforts into winning performances, as it felt that once again it was one man who proved to be the difference.

Champagne moment: James‟s committed dive on the boundary to save a run so late in the innings, although special mention to Vice Captain‟s second wicket celebration and JD‟s whites becoming browns during him avoiding being run out.

Team: Jimmy Marchant (capt), Jason Duffy (v.capt), Jonathan Thomas (wkt), Andrew Steadman, Dave Parsons, Glenn Chapman, James Gardner, Glyn Poulsom, Jonathan Davies, Alasdair Fraser, Paul Carpenter

Sudbrook, Sun 21 Jun. Lost by 86 runs. Sudk 251/8 (40ovs, Pritchard 2/36, S Davis 1/13, Elliott 1/16, Marchant 1/21). Cav 165/8 (40ovs, McVeigh 59, Duffy 26, Elliott 15, S Davis 13no)

Your correspondent was woken by his eldest at 4.45am on the morning of the match with Sudbrook, I‟m sure Kevin Pieterson doesn‟t have to put up with that! (And I‟m sure this is the only thing that separates him from me!). To the expectant fathers among the ranks of the Cavaliers, kids are great, but bloody knackering.

On arrival at the ground in Caldicot, a truly impressive set up for club cricket we were met with overcast skies and the slightly worrying news that the home team‟s first and second XIs had been hammered on Saturday – and it seemed they wanted to take it out on us!

After unsuccessful negotiation, a truly vital toss was lost by Jimmy. However he was quick to shift blame as Jason‟s coin toss hit Jimmy‟s flip flop and was thus one half rotation short. Sudbrook decided to bat on a good pitch with a large and very quick outfield.

Duffy and (surprisingly) Evans opened up and it went ok for 3 overs, with Duffy removing opener in his second over, bowled missing a pull to one that didn‟t get up. Unfortunately for the Cavaliers this brought Archer to the crease to partner Spencer (two members of the previously pulverised first XI.) Archer proved to be an excellent batsmen, making hay through midwicket whenever Duffy strayed on to his pads. At the other end Evans struggled for length and line, serving up a collection of full bungers, long hops and other assorted dross!! After 4 overs apiece, and with the run rate approaching 9.5 JD and Rabbit were brought on to sure things up, with a modicum of success (truth be told this pair were of a standard rarely encountered in the Willow League). The rate stayed high, with the 100 brought up as early as the 13th over, and it looked as though we‟d be chasing well in excess of 300. However, JD induced a false shot from Spencer after a rapid 74 and he was well taken by the skipper.

The fall of this wicket slowed the home team, although Archer continued to a good 50 before retiring and Phillips also played well for 40. Archer‟s retirement brought a new man to the crease, promptly dispatched first ball, LBW by Jimmy who had replaced Brownie after 4 decent overs. This prompted much discussion as to whether Jimmy was on a hat trick! He produced a corker first up to Barratt, taking the edge with one that bounced, unfortunately evading Dave behind the stumps. Barratt and Phillips formed a partnership which brought the Cavaliers back into the game as they were much more watchful than their predecessors. Barratt‟s unusual innings was ended by a fine piece of sportsmanship when he walked when no one had appealed and I‟m still not sure how he was out – caught, bowled or stumped off Gog.

The middle overs were more like what we are used to, decent scoring but wickets falling regularly, with one apiece for Mike McVeigh and Gary. Karamouzis (who looks a talent) hit the ball hard around the ground and at one point nearly broke Rabbit‟s leg with a flat back smash that took the fielder on the knee. Dawkins and Rabbit bowled well at the end – with Pritchard picking up 2-36 with two wickets in an over during his second spell. McVeigh (after suffering a variety of ailments) finished the innings bowling chinamen.

In the end Sudbrook made 251-8, a good comeback after the start, but it was always going to be hard to chase.

Cavaliers opened with Mike and Dave. Mike, making use of the fast outfield to take 10 off the opening over, raising hopes of a stunning victory. However tight bowling from Stevens (who bowled 8 straight through) and short pitched stuff from Rees kept the runs in check. Dave struggled for timing, eventually falling for 10 to an excellent caught and bowled from Stevens. Dawkins, batting at three was unfortunate, playing on for a duck to Rees. His wicket brought Jason to the crease and after a watchful start he and McVeigh put on a very good partnership. After Stevens had bowled through we were treated to the sight of Karamouzis (who seems to have modelled his action on ) bowling at extreme pace. This seemed quick side on, but to the consternation of the in going batsmen, Parsons, after a short stint as umpire assured us it was much quicker in the middle! Despite the pace the partnership grew with McVeigh hitting gloriously through the off side and with 2 or 3 cracking straight drives. He brought up his 50 with another 4, a cracking innings after showing promise in the early weeks of the season. Shortly after reaching his 50 he was hit by a quick beamer from Karamouzis which must have stung!

Jason had reached a gritty 26 in a partnership well over 50 (check the scorecard!) before falling to a cracking catch in the gully. Gog went in at 5, but McVeigh, JD and Evans all fell in quick succession to the spin of Spencer.

Gary came in and batted fluently for 15 before falling to a classic, „yes, no. Go on then. Oh bollocks‟ run out. Rabbit came and went first ball before Gog was joined by Brownie. The pair batted watchfully and well and stayed together until the end. Chances of victory had fallen by the wayside somewhat and 90 were required off the last over. In the end we reached 165-8 off our 40 to lose by 86 runs.

It sounds like a hammering, and we were well beaten, but by a much better side than we expected on a Sunday. Heads were kept up and the day was enjoyed, roll on the league.

Champagne Moment

Hard to separate them, but McVeigh‟s straight cover drives were from the top drawer, especially off such quick bowling.

Team: Jimmy Marchant (capt), Jason Duffy (v. capt), Dave Parsons (wkt), Jonathan Davies, Michael McVeigh, Gary Elliott, Chris Evans, Michael Dawkins, Graeme Brown, Wyn Pritchard, Steve Davis

South Wales Echo, Thu 18 Jun. Lost by 7 wickets. Cav 105/8 (20ovs, Dawkins 20, McVeigh 18, Carpenter 17, Elliott 13, Marchant 13, R Davies 12). Echo 106/3 (15.4ovs, Carpenter 1/1, McVeigh 1/13, Davis 1/13)

To provide a bit of a background to your match reporter for this match, he grew up in an outback town in the middle of Australia where conversations were limited and there was really only two words that an Australian male understood; yes or no. Even with these two essential and vitally important words in the Australian male‟s vocabulary, he could often get away without using any words with simple grunts or a nodding of the head. Words are treated as a scarce resource used only when essentially required [Ed: I guess when your local territory includes places with names like Goondiwindi, Warialda and Pallamallawa you don't want to have your mouth open for too long in case a blow fly pops in]. To that end, here is the match report for Cardiff Cavaliers vs South Wales Echo.

The toss was won by Echo who elected to field. McVeigh and Carpenter opened. McVeigh was bowled by Rowlands for 18, while Carpenter was bowled by Morgan for 17. Morgan then went on to take the wickets of R Davies (12), and Elliott (13). Dawkins (20) and Parsons (3) were both stumped by Warr with Pearce bowling on both occasions. Marchant (13) was bowled by Hales. Buckle (0) was run out leaving Brown not out on 1 at the end of the 20 with Pritchard and S Davis not batting.

With the Cavaliers taking the field, Millard and Rowlands opened for Echo. Rowlands went for 11, caught Carpenter bowled S Davis. Morgan went for 0 to McVeigh and Rogers was caught by McVeigh for 29 with Carpenter bowling. Rhys was not out on 0 with Millard taking the winning runs for Echo with 53 after smacking your match reporter out of the park with terrible bowling figures of 0/12 (0.4).

An abbreviated Australian version of this match report is as follows:

Q. Did we win?

A. No.

Champagne Moment: The first sip of refreshing Ale at the Butchers Arms

Team: Jimmy Marchant (capt), Dave Parsons (wkt), Michael McVeigh, Gary Elliott, Richard Davies, Michael Dawkins, Graeme Brown, Wyn Pritchard, Steve Davis, Martin Buckle, Paul Carpenter

South Glam (Willow League), Tue 16 Jun. Lost by 36 runs. Cavaliers 0pts, South Glam 15pts. SGlam 124/8 (20ovs, Marchant 3/22, Chapman 2/23, Adams 1/17, Gardner 1/23). Cav 88ao (18 ovs, D Parsons 21, Smith 20, Duffy 10)

When you‟re facing the League leaders, who haven‟t dropped a bonus point yet, and on their turf too, you need to be at your best. For the second week running our bowling and fielding was right up there with only two issues – one being the preponderance of wides, which continue to be about double the amount the opposition bowl, and when we reduce this variance we‟ll be putting ourselves in a better position to win games that we‟re just losing at the present. The second, though, was outside our control – injuries. Keeper JT twisted his knee so badly that, though gamely he continued behind the stumps, he was only able to bat with a runner and was unable to use his feet at all. Meanwhile, Glenn and Steaders also strained hamstring and calf respectively and were also severely hampered when it came to bat [Ed: at least one wag wondered if we should be twinned with St John‟s Ambulance ..] More of our innings later.

Thanks to the Take That concert in Cardiff, which virtually brought the M4 and City to a standstill, play was very late in getting underway and there was even doubt as to whether both sides would be able to put out an XI – JD couldn‟t get there for the start so Steaders moved up from 12th man and, while we waited for others to arrive, even the incapacitated Jez was seen to have donned his whites on the grounds that even if he couldn‟t run, if the ball was hit to him he might save a run – happily, we had eleven others on the field by the time the first ball was bowled.

Mike McVeigh opened with what would otherwise been a maiden but for 5 wides at the end – he was clearly troubling the batsmen and bowled through, including a maiden, and was unlucky not to pick up a wicket or two. The skipper took the second over but, judging that there was no additional turn for him, decided to save himself for bowling at the death and introduced the tanned Vice Capt who showed the merits of a holiday by bowling teasing and testing spell that included a maiden and deserved wickets but had to settle for a miserly 16 off his 4 over stint.

The next change saw another vacationing returnee, Glenn, harnessed with debutant James Gardner – we‟d not seen James since nets as work and other commitments had denied him the chance to make his entrance but what a way to announce yourself, taking a wicket with his first ever delivery as a Cavalier, bowling the obdurate John Sparks, so often the anchor man for South Glam. James continued to show good promise with the ball and a diving save on the boundary‟s edge indicated what an all round asset he will be to the club.

Glenn picked up 2 wickets, one an exceptionally sharp ct&bw, and Grizz removed the ever dangerous Jack Lansdown cheaply for just 10. Jim came back to bowl at the end and applied a tourniquet that also produced 3 wickets for him as South Glam looked to press home their early advantage with wickets in hand but could never quite dominate the bowling. The only blot on an otherwise excellent performance was the 24 wides conceded.

With leg injuries to 3 of our top 5 batsmen, Jim and Jase had to rethink the strategy and line up. Steaders agreed to give it a go at the top of the order, with Jamie Smith accompanying. However, Steaders struggled and, clearly conscious of his leg, was neither as fluent as normal nor as able to pick up quick singles and turn 1s into 2s. Jamie, though, seemed to relish with the responsibility and struck some lovely boundaries. When Steaders feathered a wide ball that he would normally have flayed to the boundary with just 16 on the board, it was clear that we would have to work hard.

Jim also struggled a little and was out to an excellent catch in the deep and, when Jamie followed soon after in the same fashion to make us 32/3 off 7 overs, it was down to our last 2 fit recognised batsmen – Dave P and Grizz – to try and fashion a platform from which we might have a tilt at the total. They were playing beautifully and appeared untroubled until Dave played the ball wide of point for what looked a comfortable single only for Grizz to slip, lose his footing and then overbalance completely. The ball had been returned well to the keeper before Grizz was able to get to his feet and try vainly to reach the crease.

The next of the hobbling wounded, JT, went in with Jimmy as his runner. Unable to put any weight on his front foot, JT struck a couple of meaty backfoot blows before a delivery found him in the wrong place and he could only lob a gentle catch back to the bowler. A somewhat lame (literally) Glenn didn't last long either.

Mike came in and played, as seems to be his trademark, some exquisite cover drives before falling as he tried to force the pace and James Gardner, in his debut innings, showed the virtues of a straight bat in defence to his first ball but, also, had to sacrifice his wicket with the need to try and get runs going.

Dave then got a partnership going with Jason, Dave hitting a lovely 6, but with the late start and clouds gathering it was now quite gloomy. South Glam, learning the value of not dropping bonus points as they seek the League title, decided against introducing a slower bowler and so it was no surprise that Dave was unable to pick up a delivery from Lansdown until it was too late.

Paul Carpenter and Jason then took us within sight of a bonus point (we needed to get to 90) but a very sharp ct&bw by Andy Parry put paid to Jason‟s well-judged knock and we fell short by two runs with two overs remaining.

Champagne moment: while Dave and Jamie‟s 6s, together with Mike‟s cover drives, linger in the memory, the moment could only be the first ever ball bowled by James Gardner as a Cavalier that opened his wicket-taking account.

Team: Jimmy Marchant (capt), Jason Duffy (vice capt), Jonathan Thomas (wkt), Jamie Smith, Dave Parsons, Nigel Adams, Jonathan Davies (replaced by 12th man), Paul Carpenter, James Gardner*, Glenn Chapman, Michael McVeigh. 12th man: Andrew Steadman (played in place of Jonathan Davies) * denotes debutant

Rhiwbina (Cup quarter final), Thu 11 Jun. Won by 6 wickets (now play The Consmen in semi-final on Thu 2 Jul). Rhw 129/8 (18ovs, Marchant 2/4, Evans 2/13, Smith 1/10, D Parsons 1/13, R Davies 1/14, Carpenter 1/22). Cav 130/4 (17ovs, D Parsons 27ret, Marchant 26 ret, Adams 26ret, Smith 19, Evans 10no)

The Cavaliers excellent Cup form continues and a semi final place was secured for the 3rd successive season following a thrilling 6 wicket win over Rhiwbina at the Cathedral School.

On quite a pleasant summers evening, Jimmy won the toss and put the opposition in and, following a pep talk, it was case of introductions to various new & old Cavaliers taking centre stage. The attack was opened by the veterans Bowen and Grizz who bowled their allotted 2 overs each. Marchant then showed Collingwood the art of captaincy by rotating his attack to varying degree of success. Rhiwbina had moved the score on to 34 before a combination of smart bowling by Chris Evans (not the Radio 2 DJ) and cat like reflexes by JT saw G Davies stumped for 5. Clayton & Crowter set about rebuilding the innings and with the skipper turning to Dave P saw a wicket with his 1st ball and then followed 5 dot balls to register the only maiden in the match.

Jimmy‟s rotation policy seemed to be paying off and with the first ball of the next over Paul Carpenter removed Todd lbw, with Clayton also back in the pavilion retired on 25. Rhiwbina made their way to 94 before the next wicket fell with Grizz taking a smart catch at backward point off the somewhat wayward bowling of Davies. Evans then bowled B Evans for 0 to finish with impressive figures of 2-13. Lewis had by now also reached 25 and, with the cup rules as they are, had to retire back to the pavilion. With Rhiwbina looking set to make a match winning total the skipper brought Smith into the attack and the move paid dividends as he bowled James for 7 before Jimmy bowled the final over picking up 2 wickets and Rhiwbina finished on 129/8 thanks to some tight bowling at the death.

JT and Jamie opened the innings and set about chasing the total at the required run rate 7.22 per over seeing off the opening pairing of Lewis and Evans without much difficulty despite a few scares. Rhiwbina then turned to the spin option and the partnership was broken with a remarkable catch by Crowter to dismiss JT as he viciously pulled a short ball, with the ball no more than a few inches off the ground Crowter diving managed to parry the ball into the air before smartly catching the rebound. This was not the last of the action in this over as a few balls later Pilling then bowled Smith (19 off 17 balls) to leave the Cavaliers on 31/2. Marchant & Parsons both set about rebuilding the innings with smart running and occasional boundary for good measure.

Jimmy reached 26 (off just 18 balls) before having to retire, bringing Grizz to centre stage and a few overs later with the score nicely ticking over Parsons reached 27 (at a run a ball) before having to retire. The score had now reached 103 before Grizz then added the names of R Davies & Elliot into his little black book of Cavaliers that he has managed to run out [Ed: having likened his playing to a certain in a match some season's ago, Mr Adams seems perhaps to have adopted too much of Mr B's cricketing habits], Davies without facing a ball! Grizz soon reached 26 (from just 17 balls, including a steepling 6) and this brought two more of this season‟s newcomers, Evans & Carpenter, to the crease to negotiate the winning runs. Evans crashed 10 runs off 6 balls with 2 boundaries to negotiate another semi final appearance in the beginning of July.

[Ed: it was a very satisfying win in a game played in excellent spirit with umpires from both teams prepared to give LBWs, decisions accepted without rancour and good play applauded by both sides. The fact that 5 of this Cavaliers team were either new to the Club this year or didn‟t feature in last year‟s Cup run, indicates how well they adjusted to the unique format of the Cup and its rapid tempo, with every one putting the needs of the team first, prepared to give it a go and to sacrifice their wicket, if needs be, to make sure we kept up with the rate – hats off all round. Thanks too to Glyn for umpiring throughout and for Jez who kept the scorebook immaculately ... well, almost, as the Rhiwbina scorer needed to remind him of a run he'd failed to cross off ...]

Team: Jimmy Marchant (capt), Jonathan Thomas (wkt), Jamie Smith, Dave Parsons, Nigel Adams, Richard Davies, Gary Elliott, Chris Evans, Paul Carpenter, Mark Twaits, Ross Bowen.

Cardiff Hockey (Willow League), Tue 9 Jun. Lost by 6 runs. Cavaliers 4pts, CHockey 11pts. CHockey 125/9 (20ovs, J Davies 2/12, Fraser 2/13, Smith 2/23, Marchant 2/27, McVeigh 1/22). Cav 119ao (18.4ovs, Smith 39, J Thomas 26)

There was barely a breath of air blowing through the Cathedral School last Tuesday evening as the Cavaliers prepared for their Willow League encounter with the historically useful outfit, Cardiff Hockey. Conditions looked ideal for batting and having won the toss, Hockey took up the mantle of setting the target.

Bowen and Davies (J), opening the bowling for the Cavaliers, started brightly and restricted the batsmen to only the occasional loose delivery. JD made the breakthrough with his „Collingwood- esque‟ wicket to wicket spell, counting for both S Gardiner and B Cousins – the latter of which fell to what has been confirmed by the Guinness Book of World Records as the slowest recorded delivery in the history of the game. Bravo mate.

Hockey responded however, and took it upon themselves to up the ante; taking advantage of some wayward bowling from myself and the Skipper. Jimmy managed to stem the flow with a demonstration in line and length (once he had established which wicket we were playing on) by claiming the scalps of both M Gardiner and R Jones in quick succession for 25 & 28 respectively. This was crucial to the Cavaliers spell in the field as it seemed to galvanise the team, and everyone responded.

Jamie Smith and „Gus‟ Fraser both enjoyed good spells with the ball and finished with two wickets each. Special mention must go to Jamie because if cricket were a game of one ball overs, then in him we would surely have a world beater! With 20 overs completed and the 9 wickets taken spread amongst the bowlers, we could all be pleased with Hockey‟s total of 125 – the only sore point being the 27 extras conceded [Ed: this is the lowest score Hockey have been kept to this season so it represents a fantastic effort in the field].

The run chase began in the same vein as the fielding; with vigour and determination. True to recent form, JT was in imperious nick – his innings epitomised by a thunderous pull off the back foot, over mid wicket for a maximum. He was being supported well by opening partner Jamie Smith who between them, put on an opening stand of 47 before Jonathan was out caught in the 6th over.

This brought Marchant to the crease and although he was to last no more than 3 overs, his departure left the score 70 for 2 after 9 overs. The game was ours to lose…

Parsons (D) (9) and Adams (7) started well before falling and when a clearly injured Smith finally relinquished his wicket for a well hit 39, the Cavaliers were faltering. The score was now 105-5 after 15 overs.

In what now, in hindsight, must have looked like a Benny Hill sketch, the lower order completely disintegrated [Ed: one of those perversities of cricketing life – when the top order have been playing so well of late and we‟ve lost few very wickets, those lower down have not had the opportunities to spend time out in the middle and so we can‟t be surprised if some rustiness creeps in.]

McVeigh (0), JD & Carpenter (both 5) and Bowen (1) all came and went without troubling the scorecard too much and when The Gog strode defiantly out, the game was hanging in the balance.

It was 117-9 after 18 and a bit overs – remarkably, even after the most dramatic of batting collapses, we needed 9 runs from 9 deliveries… [Ed: curiously, their scorebook made it 119-9, and that is the score that was submitted to the League on the winning scorecard]

…A first ball duck for Mr Davis ended all hopes and we had snatched defeat from the jaws of victory.

Champagne moment(s):

3rd place – The sumptuous 6 from JT over mid wicket.

2nd place – Al‟s „go-go gadget arms‟ catch off his own bowling. If you want something done properly eh mate!

1st place – Has to be JD‟s mercurial slower ball. I‟m sure I could hear Chariots of Fire as he let it go.

Team: Jimmy Marchant (capt), Jonathan Thomas (wkt), Jamie Smith, Dave Parsons, Nigel Adams, Jonathan Davies, Michael McVeigh, Paul Carpenter, Ross Bowen, Alasdair Fraser, Steve Davis.

Dinas Powys, Sun 7 Jun

Cancelled - waterlogged pitch

Croesyceiliog, Sun 31 May. Won by 8 wickets. Croes’g 226/6 (40ovs, Bowen 1/8, Newbury 1/8, H Parsons 1/21, Marchant 1/25, Brown 1/33, Adams 1/41). Cav 230/2 (30ovs, J Thomas 134, A Steadman jnr 50no)

There are times when we are permitted to see great batsmen perform on the fields of South Wales and today was one of those days. I will get to this action later; in the meantime I need to describe other facets of the Gwent-visiting Cavalier fashionistas.

The Sun was out and the Cavaliers sported various outfits principally involving shorts and un- tanned legs, the debonair Brown was resplendent in his with a daffodil coloured top that set off his pale below the knee shinbones covered with a smattering of skin and hair to excite the fashion world. The House-wifes favourite JT Havers was athletically displaying his baseball boot ensemble and the President King of the Geordie Penguin trust funds was flip flopping in his size 10 Hobbit feet. Grizz had failed to turn out in his Don Johnson jacket on this occasion and this was a major blow to the C&A fashion house.

The weather was glorious and the skipper and his advisory circle soon spotted the devious plan that the opposition had for us in the SLOPE that many a visiting player had fallen foul of in the past. This was like a cliff edge with grass cut short to encourage boundaries by the shed- load, indeed the message was soon obtained from an opposition youngster caught by the dressing room door that the previous day over 600 runs had been scored in the two innings. He gave up this information without Ross Bowen having to sit on him as part of his “special rendition”. Indeed all it took was one Newbury to let out some of his fermented gas in the changing room and everybody was giving up secrets, lunch & anything else they had down their stomachs, such was the power of this secret bottom weapon in his bundies.

The opposition were late in arriving at the venue and the 2pm start was rescheduled for 2.30, this suited the Cavaliers who took the opportunity to have practice sessions in the nets and outfield to fine tune their special skills.

The skipper lost the toss and the opposition decided to have a bat as the scorching desert and SLOPE glistened in the heat haze. Mr cricket “Daffodil brown” decided he would don a snotty hanky under his cap and soon all the bacterian and dromendary camels were making for him as he resembled something out of Lawrence of Arabia only minus the elegance as will be described in a later incident. JD mentioned something about a “camel toe” not being in evidence but its meaning passed me by the sun having penetrated my scalp and sent my neuronal grey matter into a leg spin.

Ross (Panda) Bowen opened the bowling and was as tight as a camel‟s posterior in a sandstorm and he captured the first victim having had an earlier good shout for a catch behind rejected. The President snaffled the good catch down the SLOPE and moaned he had only seen it clearly at the last minute. Jiffy toiled at the other end without reward and then was replaced by Joey N and Ross was replaced by Huw “Cone chucker” Parsons. The skipper was in good catching form on both sides of the SLOPE & took a good catch in particular off the President low and diving upwards to compare with the earlier one he took off Huw diving downwards, it must be mentioned this was with bruised and battered hands from last week‟s games and having tried to remove a hand the night before with a chopper mistaking it for a log. He also set the example in the field with some good stops to batsmen‟s hard drives. Hopefully the Panda “icepack” that Villa had procured from Mrs Bowen‟s medical supplies helped to ease the pain.

All the players had a bowl and some runs flowed including two straight sixes off the Gog, the President claims he heard one spectator ask if it was Tamara press bowling (the Russian female shot putter) – I personally give this comment little credence as his hearing is declining as he gets nearer 60. I heard him trying to chat up some young boy on the boundary claiming we were the MCC ( MadHatters CC ).

A couple of further wickets fell to a good stumping by JT off Bish Brown and a well judged catch by Steaders off Grizz in addition Moody bowled one opposition player, no mean effort on a good track. Wyn the Rabbit bowled one over at the end and was miserly in conceding only 3 runs. However he did not remove his cap and the MCC committee members on the balcony were apoplectic in their striped blazers. Wyn was being held back for his batting as he was being groomed for the number 3 slot.

The bowling figures were reasonably good: Bowen 1-18, Jiffy 0-32, Huw 1-21, Joey (who bowled the only maiden ) 5 overs 1-8, Gog 0-29, Jimmy 1-25, Steaders 0-12, Grizz 1-41, Bish Brown 1-33 & Wyn 0-3. A good effort all round in the heat and with the SLOPE beckoning anything loose, nobody gave up or let the side down. However a Haydenesque incident occurred late in the game when Bish went to field a ball off JD‟s bowling and somehow he must had some camel crap on his fingers from stroking the camel‟s humps & other areas. The ball stuck in his maw and went up and over his shoulder. He claimed he had done it to wind Jiffy up as JD had earlier set off another Tsunami diving over a ball on the boundary and his Hagrid sized posterior had landed on Gwent‟s teutonic plates.

A special mention to the Wickie Havers who kept very well and has learned to use his pads to good effect. The score concluded at 226 for 6.

The tea was very good with salad and pasta, Jiffy took all the mayo & we had some nice cake to finish off with spray can cream to garnish to taste.

The openers strode out being one Dog Crusher Steadman – who claimed to be out of touch and the Collossus Jon “ Smitter” Thomas. The bowling attack commenced and JT took an immediate liking to it & he was on fire. Not literally but you could have understood it in this heat, he smote sixes and fours with a variety of strokes punishing the Croesyceiliog bowlers to all corners and his first six was a beauty smashing into the garage door with a pleasant thwack & twang. As he reached a quick 50 and then with Steaders in a support role they had 102 on the board in 16 overs with JT punishing all and sundry with huge/hard blows. He was being compared with the greats Richards, Botham & even Dr Death Farnsworth.

The Skipper was a bag of nerves and had chewed his nails up to his shoulder trying to enjoy this spectacle of unbridled batting excellence. The 200 opening stand came up well before 30 overs were up and JT had gone to his ton before this time, he did it in style with 4, 4, 4 going from 87 to 99 in 3 blows and then smiting one through cover in the air that the fielder dived for, got his fingers on it but it ripped through to the boundary for 4 to give Jon T 103 not out.

He was eventually out caught inches inside the boundary, with the score on 202 [Ed: believed to be a new Cavaliers record for any wicket] and his personal contribution was 134. A first ton and the hero of the game who took the opposition bowling attack apart single handedly. In two games this week he has scored over 200 runs for twice out – look out Steaders that record is being chased down [Ed: there have also been ripples within the corridors of Cavaliers power, wondering why Spin Doctor Poulsom and the immediate former ex-Chairman Davis clasped the nettle of power to their respective chests for so long, stifling the flourishing of youth within the ranks – since succeeding to the seat of greatest power, JT has clearly relished the responsibility of leading the club by example and should‟ve laid the cheque book aside long ago.]

The Rabbit entered at Number 3 and got some bat on ball but his running to get in was in need of vast improvement. On almost every occasion he sauntered across the line with the fielders taking pot shots at his running wicket and missing by inches with the Rabbit well out of his ground. However he got 4 runs to his credit and kept Steaders company until the leg spinner bowled him with just a few needed. Grizz came in and struck his first ball for 4 and then shortly after Andy of the flowing locks Steadman late cut one for 4 with the scores tied and gave us a win by 8 wickets inside 32 overs leaving us 230 for 2 – a vast difference to the last time we played at this ground [Ed: in pre-match report days, but just see the Oracle‟s countenance fall should you ask him about that occasion, his first ever time in charge of the Cavaliers on the pitch].

In all the excitement it was not until I did a recount on the book that it was apparent that Steaders had gone to 50 not out with his winning shot & he is to be congratulated for supporting JT in his Herculean effort and reaching 50 playing himself back into form in the process.

Needless to say there was another fashion faux-pas post match when KGB was spotted wearing two different socks on his fine feet. Again the claim was he was making a fashion statement on behalf of the “Roath neo – fashionistas” and this would soon be all the rage among the academic elite of Cathays once they had wind of it. We disagreed and he took the hump and rumour has it that he slept with it dreaming of Khartoum and the legendary Gordon being rescued by Welsh guards sporting one red & one green toe rag.

Champagne moments: In the field - a great catch by the Skipper off the President but on the batting front the Housewife‟s choice JT Havers & his demolition of the Croesyceiliog bowling attack to set up a great win. This just prior to his Snowdon and Cader Idris assaults on behalf of Ty Hafan, a worthy cause to support. Some of us tried to touch the hem of his T shirt to see if some of his greatness would rub off but Tuesday will soon show if this has happened. Spectators – quite a few Gwent folk - enjoying the sun, beer & JT‟s batting

Team: James Marchant (capt), Jonathan Thomas (wkt), Andrew Steadman, Graeme Brown, Wyn Pritchard, Huw Parsons, Nigel Adams, Jonathan Davies, Steve Davis, Joey Newbury, Ross Bowen

Chartered Trust (Willow League), Thu 28 May. Won by 8 wickets: Cavaliers 14pts, Chartered Trust 1pt. CT 121/4 (20ovs, Duffy 1/9, Bowen 1/15, McVeigh 1/17). Cav 122/2 (18.1 ovs, J Thomas 67no, Chapman 19no). Cavaliers also take a 1-0 lead in the 'Ashes' series

After the squally showers of Wednesday it was great to see the sun shine again on the Cathedral School. It‟s on evenings like this that you appreciate just how attractive the grounds are and how lucky we are to play there so often. The Cathedral bells were ringing, the green, red and purple leaves swayed in the gentle breeze and the traffic on the A48 was a distant hum. We even had sight screens! Dave Parsons was delighted!

An idyllic setting but today was not the day for the Cavaliers to relax. After the disappointment of coming second (!) to Eclipse in Tuesday night‟s run-fest the Cavs needed to get their Willow League season back on track. Facing us were Chartered Trust - our old adversaries and current holders of the Ashes. CT have been a bit of a bogey team for us in recent years and were coming off the back of an impressive cup win over the joint cup holders, South Glam (stop snarling, Jimmy!). So, the scene was set. The Cavaliers in need of a win and a Chartered Trust team in confident mood.

As the Cavs walked out to field it became apparent there was an energy and determination about the team - the warm up was good, there was plenty of banter and a pre-match huddle had the boys fired up to return to winning cricket while playing the game in the right way.

Unfortunately, once the CT innings started it seemed as if we were going to be on the receiving end of another big score. Our fielding was sharp but the Cathedral School pitch has been very true this season and runs were racking up quickly. Chartered‟s openers had put on 53 before Ross eventually struck, bowling Mohring (C) for 36. Ross produced a mean spell, finishing with 1 for 15 from his 4 overs and his example was followed by Joey “El Presidente” Newbury (0/30), Mike McVeigh (1/17), “The Vice” (1/8 off 3 overs) and Glenn “Candyman” Chapman (0/9 off 2 overs).

Joey was unlucky not to get a reward for his nagging accuracy while Mike generated some excellent pace and accounted for CT‟s other opener, Ahmad for 45 - Jimmy taking a superb catch from a skyer in the deep. Jason‟s 3 overs at the end of the innings really helped to put the brakes on and he fully deserved his wicket. Once the openers had gone the Cavaliers had been able to put the squeeze on and Chartered found it difficult to score, grinding their way to 121 at the end of their 20 overs.

The fielding was so much more enthusiastic than on Tuesday, there was plenty of vocal support throughout the innings and a target of 122 was certainly “gettable”. However, we knew we couldn‟t underestimate Chartered‟s bowling attack because, as the past shows, they‟ve a habit of making life difficult for us.

The Cavaliers chase was to be lead by Andy “Dog Crusher” Steadman and the housewives‟ favourite, JT. Chartered opened with an all-spin attack - Malik in particular keeping both openers on their toes and forcing some false shots. Despite his fantastic recent form Steaders complained at feeling out of touch and fell for 7 to a very sharp catch by Malik off his own bowling. To this point JT had ridden his luck, mixing some well-timed shots with the occasional (entirely characteristic!) rush of blood to the head. When Jimmy joined him with the score on 42 the Cavaliers were only slightly off the required rate but facing the prospect of some more tight bowling from the CT team.

Both batted sensibly, keeping the score ticking along and waiting patiently for the looser or wider ball to hit. They added 24 before Jimmy was bowled for 11. Although still a little behind the run rate, the pair had managed to see off a couple of Chartered‟s more consistent bowlers and, as Glenn made his way to the wicket, thoughts turned to pushing on towards our target. It was going to be close! JT, now more settled and composed, decided to take a more aggressive approach and scored heavily from a couple of overs, easing the pressure of the chase [Ed: a 'blogging' observer, picked up by GCHQ's monitoring devices, reckoned that this was probably among the best of JT's innings for the club, mixing wise defence with punishment for anything that may not even have been asking to be hit - a most excellent performance allied to the cause of the target to be chased down]. Glenn had pulled up suddenly when taking a quick single but, despite a suspected pulled hamstring, supported JT magnificently. Steaders, his runner, was there to scamper the singles while Glenn punished the hittable balls to great effect, moving quickly to 19.

With 18 overs bowled the Cavaliers score stood at 118. JT drove the first ball of the 19th over to the boundary for 4 bringing home an 8 wicket victory. He remained unbeaten on 67 (two 6s, eight 4s) while Glenn hobbled off the field undefeated for a valuable 19 (three 4s).

Just the result we wanted. Great effort in the field, tremendous team spirit, loads of support for each other and a well paced run chase. What a difference in a couple of days!

Champagne moment: Glenn‟s battling 19 not out despite his injury. Gritty, determined and aggressive.

Team: James Marchant (capt), Jason Duffy (vice capt), Jonathan Thomas, (wkt), Dave Parsons, Andrew Steadman, Glenn Chapman, Alasdair Fraser, Chris Evans, Joey Newbury, Michael McVeigh, Ross Bowen

Eclipse Print (Willow League), Tue 26 May. Lost by 48 runs: Cavaliers 0pts, Eclipse 15 pts. EP 199/3 (20ovs, Marchant 2/15, Duffy 1/38). Cav 151ao (18.4 ovs, A Steadman jnr 61,J Thomas 23, Marchant 16)

The Oracle had predicted a feast of runs at the Cathedral School this year but perhaps even he was not reckoning on such a glut in this late May fixture, especially after the mid-afternoon squalls that caused games elsewhere to be called off. However, the pitch was firm, the ground had dried well and the batsmen on both sides were prepared to play their shots, resulting in 350 runs in the evening.

Eclipse won the toss and elected to bat with both openers in such imperious form and some unusually wayward bowling that Jimmy was forced to ring the changes sooner than he might have expected, with only his own spell (2/15 off 4 overs) and that of Ross (0/32 off 4) slowing the run rate although everyone had deliveries that presented the batsman with difficulties but tonight the force was with Eclipse. Their 50 came up in the 5th over and the 100 in the 13th with Collyer scoring 62. However, Mike Williams was by now at the crease and he blitzed his way to 76 despite only being on the field for just over 8 overs. There was nothing agricultural about their shots and, while the bowlers may have been unlucky with a few play-and-misses and a couple of hardish chances that went down, this was an exceptionally fine batting performance by Eclipse.

To our credit, no-one flagged or moaned in the field and, despite facing a huge challenge, there was no air of resignation when we came to bat as Steaders and JT set about building a base from which we might tackle the total. JT was looking in good nick too, with 23 off 26 balls, when he holed out trying to accelerate but 50 had been posted in 6 overs. Jimmy joined Steaders and they added 55 in even time before Jimmy was run out by a direct hit that left him agonisingly short.

Steaders continued and brought up his own 50 off just 35 balls with 7 fours and a majestic six with a shot down the ground that looked graceful and effortless. There was a curious interlude when he summoned his helmet which was taken out to him by the strangest sight one might see on a cricket pitch – some geezer in a donkey jacket and wearing head gear that could‟ve doubled for his auntie‟s tea cosy with a knapsack on his back, trotted out with the requested helmet. On his return the stranger was identified as none other than Kenneth Graeme Brown, well known in this parish.

Some keen Eclipse fielding and bowling meant we needed 65 off the last 5 overs and when Steaders was out, trying to improvise to get a much needed boundary, our mid and late order couldn‟t quite muster enough runs to get us in to bonus point territory, and we were all out for 151. Champagne Moment: Steaders‟ 6 that effortlessly soared over the trees and in to the path beyond the fencing

Team: James Marchant (capt), Jason Duffy (vice capt), Jonathan Thomas, (wkt), Dave Parsons, Andrew Steadman, Glenn Chapman, Alasdair Fraser, Nigel Adams, Jonathan Davies, Mark Twaits, Ross Bowen. 12th man: Joey Newbury

Highways Hurricanes, Thu 21 May. Won by 8 wickets. HH 137ao (19.5ovs, Marchant 2/3, Adams 2/13, Duffy 2/31, Twaits 1/14, S Davis 1/15, Elliott 1/16, McVeigh 1/16). Cav 138/2 (18.5ovs, D Parsons 53no, Chapman 48). Cavaliers take a 1-0 in C&H Trophy series

As the Cavaliers arrived at the Cathedral School to lock horns with our old rivals the Hurricanes the season was beginning to take a similar pattern to last year, with 4 consecutive fixtures rained off including yet another attempt to play the 2008 cup final.

Hurricanes skipper Griffiths won the toss and elected to bat on a wicket that looked and felt particularly hard and dry despite the last weeks‟ heavy rainfall. Jimmy handed the new ball to Mark Twaits (1-14) to steam in from the pavilion end, down what he perceives as a quite considerable slope! The first ball of the match was of a good length and tempted the batsman into a drive, and the ball whistled through via a faint edge to the keeper who subsequently let out a solo appeal. The umpire agreed and dispatched Nicholas back to the pavilion. Jason Duffy (2-31) opened up from the other end (uphill!) and whilst suffering a few lusty blows from O‟Brien and Driscoll kept plugging away to take two wickets in two balls. O‟Brien fell to a superb one handed, over the head effort from a nonchalant Mike McVeigh, and Driscoll to a skier held by „Gus‟ Fraser.

Brownie bowled with his usual flight and guile but no luck, he must be wishing we could return to the Llandaff Oval where the sun would have aided his moon ball and blinded the batsmen into submission. McVeigh (1-16) chipped in with the wicket of Bowen, caught and bowled for 21, as Marchant decided to juggle the bowling attack. Gus bowled well but failed to take a wicket and Gog, whilst removing Stagg for 15 caught by Grizz, was harshly treated by the Hurricanes batsmen.

With the middle order upping the tempo the skipper introduced himself for one solitary over. Crucially he accounted for Jeffries, top scorer with 38, with a sharp caught and bowled and also bowling Bowen to finish with 1-0-3-2. Debutant Gary Elliott was introduced into the attack, sporting the Cavaliers away kit of Navy Blue t-shirt and trousers. Despite a few wayward balls he soon found a rhythm and claimed his first wicket for the club. Stagg played forward and missed and was stumped by an eager Parsons (Dave), who then appealed to a startled Gog at Square leg not realising that Driscoll was umpiring at Point!

Grizz bowled well at the death giving the batsmen little to work with, bowling „Lazer‟ Lewis (a previous guest Cavalier I believe) and removing Ronan (not Keating) again stumped by Parsons. The arrival of Ronan to the crease brought a sight missing from Cavaliers games in recent years with both batsman and bowler neglecting to wear whites. The true spirit of midweek cricket!

The Cavaliers openers McVeigh and Chapman strode to the middle to chase down a target of 138. McVeigh had donned a pair of bright pink underpants before batting but they gave the „Pink Panther‟ little luck as he was undone by a combination of Driscoll and the Cathedral School‟s lack of bounce for 1. Parsons (Dave) joined Chapman at the crease and they kept the score ticking along staying up with the rate throughout. Meanwhile the discussion on the boundary revolved around one Cavaliers thought that Glenn reminded him of „a tubby Kevin Pieterson‟ and then another Cavalier was heard to enquire which member of Liberty X his missus resembled! [Ed: a welcome distraction from Gus‟s constant questioning at the end of each over “and what were they on after [x] overs?” – Comrade Twaits, obviously used to keeping his head down in the Gulags, just ignored it but the Oracle wished he‟d been granted the patience of Job rather than his cricketing omniscience …]

The Hurricanes bowling was changed regularly and O‟Brien and Bowen took most of the punishment as Glenn raced to 48 off 44 balls (1x6, 4x4) including a savage blow for 6 over mid wicket. Both batsmen kept the scoreboard ticking over with singles and punished the bad balls for boundaries, putting on 85 for the second wicket. Chapman fell caught in the leg side attempting another huge hit, falling just 2 short of what would have been a well deserved fifty. Parsons continued to run the ball around being joined by Jimmy, and both capitalised on loose bowling and an increase in no-balls and wides. Dave bought up his fifty off 45 balls containing 4 fours and finished on 53 not out. Marchant was obviously keen to get to the Butchers for a pint and finished with a quick 13 not out.

Another solid performance from the Cavaliers, winning by 8 wickets and taking a 1-0 lead in the 3 match C&H Trophy series.

Champagne Moment: Mike McVeigh‟s overhead, one hand catch (or Duffy‟s appalling hat-trick ball!)

Team: James Marchant (capt), Jason Duffy (vice capt), Dave Parsons (wkt), Michael McVeigh, Gary Elliott *, Alasdair Fraser, Glenn Chapman, Graeme Brown, Mark Twaits, Nigel Adams, Steve Davis. 12th man: Kiran Ridley * denotes debutant

South Glamorgan (2008 Willow League Cup Final), Tue 19 May

Cancelled - rain. Trophy is shared between the two teams

Tonyrefail & Edmundstone, Sun 17 May

Cancelled - rain

Cardiff Bay Barbarians (Willow League), Thu 14 May

Cancelled - rain

The Consmen, Wed 13 May

Cancelled - rain

Cardiff Casuals, Sun 10 May. Lost by 8 wickets. Cav 102/9 (40ovs, Marchant 34, extras 26, S Davis 13no). Cas 103/2 (24ovs, H Parsons 1/19, S Davis 1/21)

Cavaliers won the toss and elected to bat on a pleasantly warm early season day. Newbury and Davies made a watchful start against the accurate attack of Bannister and Stephens (P). Stephens particularly extracting lateral movement and uneven bounce from the conditions. His slower delivery deceiving Newbury (8) with the score on 21 in the over 6. Jiffy briefly counter attacked with some meaty blows.

The first change bowlers Furnham and Stewart accounted for Davies who mistimed a legside pull and Duffy who offered a return catch. This duo rapidly dismissed Fraser and Mc Veigh and the Cavaliers subsided to 46-5 in the 16th over.

A partnership was needed to steady to the ship and escape from the vice like grasp of the Oppo's attack

To the rescue rode Marchant and Davis who put together a necessarily cautious partnership. Marchant in particular showed uncharacteristic restraint able assisted by the obdurarate Gog. Senior members of the club were getting quite excited at the prospect of the full 40 overs failing to raise the three figures. However Marchant blossomed forth and the run rate rose. This flurry was aided by a statistical rarity when 5 extras were awarded when Smith the excellent gloveman conceded byes which struck his discarded helmet.

Marchant perished immediately the ton was raised thus ending an invaluable partnership of 51. The wisdom of their frugality was borne out when Roach vanquished Ridley, Pritchard and Parsons (H) without further addition. The Cavaliers innings limped to the finish line with Davis continuing his fine early season form undefeated on 13.

CAVALIERS 102-9 40 Overs

Tea was taken in the impressive dining room. This is the final piece in the jigsaw and the club now has outstanding facilities to play these games.

Discussion at the captain's table focused upon Jimmy's handing of the gloves to Fraser which did prove ultimately sound. Brown not for the first time and probable not the last was in a minority of one in championing "Rabbits" cause. His assertion any deficiency in technical skills would be more than offset by his ability to get into the batsman "ears and mind" fell on stony ground. The prospect of the Casuals batting lineup committing ritual "Hari kari" to escape the clutches of this most natural and persistent of sledgers will thus never be proven.

The interval was also illuminated by the introduction of a tall well built stranger. The original Shane? He introduced himself to the committee explaining that he had returned to the area from up North having previously played for Cardiff 2nds and the Lancashire Leagues. He was attracted by our web site. Thomas our redoubtable Chairman extended the hand of friendship and did his Nigel Havers-esque introduction to his very attractive young lady!

Back to business. McVeigh and Parsons opened the attack. The genial Ulsterman ( the second Ulster Cavalier following Frankie Mc Cullough of Newry, Cardiff HS and currently Brisbane) had a confident appeal turned down and will prove a good acquisition with his testing, brisk left arm action, 0 for 17 in his 7 overs being scant reward.

Parsons also bowled neatly and gained reward in yorking Councillor Mark Stephens for 14 with the score on 24 in the 6th over. Smith proved himself a polished performer with bat as well as gloves mixing solid defence with a ruthless despatch of anything loose. Davis confirmed his reputation by surprising Akbari with a legal delivery and disturbing the timbers. The wicket falling in the 12th over with the Casuals having just recorded their half century.

Alas for the hosts no further wickets fell despite the honest toiling of Brown, Marchant, Newbury and "Jiffy". Without the pressure of a challenging run rate the Casuals were content to pick off the runs with little risk.

They have over the years shown this worrying competence. Smith (55) and Hood (10) saw them home by 8 wickets in the 24th over.

CHAMPAGNE MOMENT: [Ed: alas, our reporter was hard pressed to find any modicum of a moment of exceptional ability or skill that he considered worthy of according such an accolade; though he did observe several candidates for the pork scratching award!]

Team: James Marchant (capt), Jason Duffy (vice capt), Alasdair Fraser (wkt), Steve Davis, Joey Newbury, Michael McVeigh, Wyn Pritchard, Kiran Ridley, Huw Parsons, Graeme Brown, Jonathan Davies

Uni Staff (Willow League), Thu 7 May. Won by 3 wickets: Cavaliers 12pts, Uni Staff 3 pts. Uni 121/7 (20 ovs, J Davies 2/13, Fraser 2/19, Chapman 1/15, Twaits 1/15, Duffy 1/16). Cav 125/7 (19.5 ovs, A Steadman jnr 51no, Chapman 19, Marchant 13, Duffy 10no)

This was our season‟s opening match of the Willow League, played at the Cathedral School, our “home turf”, against University Staff. Both sides were evidently keen to begin their campaign with a bright start. No optimist, however, could have thought their side‟s start to the season would be as bright as the Hawaiian shirts that JD possesses. Could there ever be a start as bright as this?

Before the game, we were informed that Jeremy had contacted JD during the week to enquire whether he could borrow one of JD‟s Hawaiian shirts. Jeremy had predicted that JD appears to be just the sort of man who would wear one. Jeremy had guessed well. It was quite a surprise that the game got under way at all: it had been overcast throughout the day and we had been threatened with downpours. The Cavaliers gathered together and warmed up with some slip-fielding practice then Marchant and the University Staff captain, Montgomery, tossed a coin for the option of deciding whether to field or to bat. I think for the first time this season, Marchant did not win the toss. So it was Montgomery who determined that his side would bat first. About this time, Dave Parsons entered the ground and hurriedly put on his wicket- keeping attire.

In gloomy conditions, Uni Staff began their innings. Mark Twaits and The Hawaiian Shirt Ambassador, Davies, opened the bowling for us. Both batsmen appeared to have difficulty sighting the deliveries, given the poor light conditions. The Uni Staff problems were added to by a tight opening spell by Twaits and Davies. In quick succession, they were able to claim the wickets of Adams, Allen and Davies. The three batsmen between them could only muster 3 runs. Uni Staff were 11 for 3.

Twaits, who bowled quickly (capitalising on the poor light), bowled 3 overs for 15 runs taking one wicket. Davies bowled intelligently but at a slower pace, to take 2 wickets for 13 runs from his 3 overs. At this stage it seemed unfortunate for the Cavaliers, given their very good start, that a very persistent shower threatened to end the game. The Uni Staff batsmen, however, agreed that the game should continue.

The rain did stop and, with it, the fortunes of Uni Staff appeared to change. Their surviving opener, Tripathy, sparked a revival for his side with some fearsome pull shots and Lord, their number 5 batsman, proved an able partner. For the Cavaliers, however, Fraser and Marchant bowled 4 overs each. Fast-medium bowler Fraser was able to dismiss both Lord, LBW, and Rogers, whom he bowled. Fraser managed to consistently shape the ball away from the right-handed batsmen. He finished with 2 wickets for 19 runs. Although Marchant bowled well, he had no luck and took no wickets, conceding 25 runs from his off-spin.

Jason Duffy claimed the important wicket of Hughes (15) in his spell of 3 overs one wicket for 15 runs. Unfortunately for Chapman, his single over convinced Marchant not to give him a further over, as 15 runs were conceded. Importantly, though, he and Parsons (who took a fine stumping) combined to dismiss the dangerous Tripathy for 51. Michael McVeigh, bowling left-arm medium pace, bowled 2 good overs, shaping the ball away from the batsman, as Fraser had been able to do earlier. McVeigh‟s bowling figures were 2 overs for 8 runs, with no wickets. Uni Staff reached a competitive total of 121 for 7 from 20 overs.

With the light further fading, the Cavaliers began their response by opening with Steadman and Marchant. They were met with some very good bowling by Munday, 4 overs no wickets for 13 runs, and Hughes, 4 overs no wickets for 19 runs. Although both bowlers failed to end the opening partnership, a run-out did. Marchant could have made his ground when Steadman indicated he would not run, but for the fact that in turning to return to the striker‟s end he lost his footing on the slippery surface. Marchant scored 13 from 12 balls.

Chapman came to the wicket. He batted elegantly and faced 21 balls for his score of 19, when he was adjudged LBW. One highlight of his innings was a much-needed 6 over midwicket. Fraser was dismissed for 9, before a series of wickets fell. The Cavaliers had gone from 69 for 2, to 84 for 3, to 111 for 7, losing Adams (3), Parsons (nought), McVeigh (5) and JD (5) along the way. Understandably, it seemed very difficult for incoming batsmen to adjust to the failing light. As wickets fell, the run rate required for each over was sometimes exceeded and sometimes not, so that 22 runs were required from the final 18 balls, and 11 runs from the final 7 balls. Steadman hit a 4 from the last ball of the 19th over, so that 7 runs were required from the final six, with Jason Duffy on strike.

We need not have worried, as Jason was able to ease one delivery behind square on the offside, which found the boundary, another delivery he was able to stroke for two, so that the scores were level with 4 balls remaining. Jason missed the next two balls, so that 1 was still required from the final 2. The next delivery, however, was angled down the legside. Jason helped it on its way for four. Steadman finished on 51 not out from 52 deliveries, including 6 fours, whilst Duffy managed 10 runs from 5 balls. We had won by 3 wickets, with 1 ball remaining.

Champagne Moment: debutant Michael McVeigh‟s imperious extra-cover drive for 4, in the gloom, in defiance of the overhead conditions

Team: James Marchant (capt), Jason Duffy (vice capt), Dave Parsons (wkt), Andrew Steadman, Glenn Chapman, Alasdair Fraser, Nigel Adams, Michael McVeigh*, Jonathan Davies, Mark Twaits, Jeremy Sparkes (12th man but played in place of Matt Thomas) * denotes debutant

Eclipse Print, Tue 5 May. Lost by 13 runs. EP 132/6 (20 ovs, Marchant 3/7, Brown 2/9, Davis 1/17). Cav 119/7 (20 ovs, J Smith 25ret, Marchant 25ret, S Davis 22no)

A brief report as the designated match reporter was summoned to the Press Complaints Commission hearing on privacy in changing rooms ... with the Righteous Brothers hit echoing in our minds (the sun ain't gonna shine any more) and enough sweaters, fleeces and thermal vests to have graced a WI sale of work, cap'n Marchant won yet another toss and promptly inserted the opposition. There was a rare outing for the lesser spotted but frequently heard Stumpy Sparkes behind the sticks who was, so he complained, kept active on both sides of the wicket as the cold played havoc with the bowlers' fingers. A fine start by the Eclipse openers (Collyer retired on 25 as per the captains' agreement, and Matt Williams 24) was ended when Stumpy 'earned' Marchant his first wicket with his first delivery as the young batsman had been told "this guy turns it loads from off to leg" so, on sighting a ball pitching middle and leg, he didn't think it would be straight and tried to flick it to leg, missed and was adjudged LBW.

Incoming Chris Stork then talked himself in to surrendering his wicket, having told Stumpy that Jimmy was his bogey bowler, he was then bowled all ends up as he tried a bottom-handed smear to mid-wicket. Jim followed this up quickly with another wicket to recover, in tandem with Graeme Brown, a poor start when they'd raced to 68/0 off the first 8 overs. Brownie soon settled in to a nice rhythm with good flight and teasing angles - while his first wicket was due to an excellent catch by Al "Buckets" Fraser (see Champagne Moment below) his second was pure off-spinning mastery, bowling the batsman through the gate with a delightfully turned off-break that pitched off and hit the top of leg stump.

Kiran came on for his first bowl of the season outdoors and could have had a wicket if a very sharp ct&bw chance had stuck and Gog then continued where he'd left off against the Sri Lankans to take a wicket. When Eclipse had looked like posting well over 150 at the half-way stage, we did well to keep them to 132.

Jamie Smith, deputising at the last minute (he'd come to watch but had, sensibly, brought his kit with him in case), opened with JD and was soon well underway with 25 off 22 balls, including four 4s. Sadly the middle order couldn't keep the momentum going until Jimmy (25 retired off 15 balls) and Gog (22not out off 16 balls) came together and tried to tilt the game our way. Gog seems to be determined to acquire a new nickname, with Renaissance Man being bandied about as the skipper remarked "since he's given up the gloves, he's taken wickets and scored runs". As we approached the final 3 overs, an asking rate of 12 an over was beyond us in the gloom and cold.

It was, though, a good workout for both sides before the Willow League starts on Thursday with some rustiness, hopefully, worked out of the system.

Champagne Moment: Al "Buckets" Fraser's excellently judged catch in the deep off a skier from the bowling of Graeme Brown, showing that there is no for age and cunning as he spun tricks in the batsmen's minds.

Team: James Marchant (capt), Jason Duffy (v capt), Jeremy Sparkes (wkt), Glenn Chapman, Wyn Pritchard, Jamie Smith, Steve Davis, Kiran Ridley, Jonathan Davies, Graeme Brown, Alasdair Fraser (12th man but played in place of Matt Thomas)

South Wales Sri Lankans, Sun 3 May. Lost by 64 runs. SWSL 142ao (34.2 ovs, Davis 5/20, Newbury 2/15, Evans 2/21, Fraser 1/16). Cav 78ao (28.3 ovs, Chapman 19, Anwar 15)

Could the Cavaliers continue the good start to the season with 3 wins on the bounce..? The weather initially was cold and blustery, very overcast, and rain threatened, but it managed to hold off. The sun broke through and it ended up being a sunny day with only some slight gusts.

On inspecting the wicket with the Captain, Jimmy Marchant, it was quickly noticed that it was on the football pitch and that only a few stud marks (!!!) were across the wicket…. It was the greenest of green grass on the wicket, which looked like it had absolutely no bounce and was still a little damp from the previous night‟s rain.

Jimmy won the toss and chose to put the Sri Lankans into bat in the hope that the pitch would dry out later on in the day.

„Gus‟ Fraser opened the bowling, choosing to go with the wind which was going down the wicket from the „rugby pitch‟ end. Twaits opened at the other end. Both bowlers kept it relatively tight but bowled 4 overs a piece with no wickets. It was obvious early on that any short balls would hold up on the pitch and would get knocked about, so full pitched deliveries were the order of the day. Both Gus and Twaits had ahances with Gus having a few close LBW decisions turned down and Twaits having a slip catch dropped by Chapman.

The Captain made the first bowling change after Gus‟ 4 overs and brought on Joey Newbury and debutant Chris Evans to replace Twaits. And what a good move that was. Joey bowled tight and in the block hole, with lots of Yorkers getting the openers all ends up. Chris at the other end could not have had a better start bowling opener Douglas (11) in his opening over. That ended the Sri Lankans openers (Simon and Douglas) opening stand of 31 off 10 overs.

Chris‟s impressive debut continued as, in his second over, he took the wicket of Mahil (no.3) as well has having 2 dropped catches in the same over. Opener Simon soon went caught behind off Joeys bowling, leaving the Sri Lankans on 47/3 off 13 overs. Dave „The Cat‟ Parsons was also demonstrating fine form as Wicket Keeper, on for the unavailable due to injury JT, although not knowing he was actually going to be playing keeper until 2 minutes before the game started [Ed: happily our new Treasurer's powers of observations, while apparently very poor at nets, are keen as ever when the ball is coming towards him]. Some great takes from down the leg side as well as catches for Chris‟s and Joey's wickets, on top of quick reactions for attempted stumpings, showing that he is a more than capable keeper.

Joey then bowled Sri Lankan No.5 Sunil and completed his 4 over spell with 2/15. Sri Lankans were then 55/4 off 15 and things were looking good for the Cavs.

Jimmy brought himself on, alongside Glyn Poulsom at the other end [Ed: is this a record the for shortest retirement ever ...] However, the Sril Lankans made a small stand with their seemingly star player Fari (31), partnering Niluxa (28). Jimmy not happy with the pitch or Fari wildly swinging at the ball, especially when Fari knocked him out of the park for a big 6 off Jimmy's only 3rd ball of his spell. Glyn at the other end kept it quite tight, completing a 2 over spell for 0/12, with Jimmy finishing on 0/18 off 3. Sri Lankans stand put them on 99 for 4 off 22 overs.

Then came the Captain's decision to bring on Steve „Gog‟ Davis (for Jimmy) which proved to be a stunner. Glenn Chapman replaced Poulsom at the other end. Gog immediately made an impact taking both Niluxa and Fari in his first over, with the delivery bowling Fari completely perplexing the in-form batsman trying to knock Gog out of the park. Niluxa was caught by Joey diving to his left which was being considered as the Champagne moment, until later events unfolded. Sri Lankans then on 100/6 off 23 overs after Gog's first over. Gog and Chapman continued their spells, with Glenn keeping it tight and Gog seemingly in a rich vein of form taking the wicket of Asis via a great stumping from Parsons leaving the Sri Lankans on 119/7 off 28 overs. Gog completed his last over taking 2 wickets bowling Sysyam and a great catch from Chapman over the head from a solid pull (this therefore had to be the champagne moment) to give Gog his 5/16, his best bowling figures ever, leaving the Sri Lankans on 125/9 off 30 overs.

Rabbit and Anwar came on for spells bowling 2 and 3 overs respectively, before Gus Fraser came back on for his 5th over and wrapping up the Sri Lankans innings with only his second ball, the No.9 Ian edging to a fine gully. Note there were at least 4 dropped catches in the field today, Riaz (2), Rabbit (1) and Chapman (1). Sri Lankans all out for 142, a seemingly achievable score for the Cavaliers, what with the day now very sunny and warm and the pitch drying up a touch.

After a nice tea, albeit in an unusual venue (the changing rooms), along with finding out that the Bluebirds had again fallen at the last hurdle, and that it was a great game for the Cardiff Blues coming back, Glenn Chapman and Dave Parsons opening the Cavaliers batting.

It was get forward time, with the pitch still slow with no bounce and the ball holding up. The first 4 over were quite promising, with Glenn showing his form with some early boundaries, leaving the Cavs on 22 off 4 overs. Sri Lankan Fari continued demonstrating his team star player status bowling Parsons for 1. It was 3 bad overs on the bounce for the Cavs, with Joey going not longer after Dave for 0, and then Glenn knocking one straight back to the bowler for his 19. Cavs then 23/3 off 7 overs.

Gus Fraser and Riaz Anwar tried to make a slow recovery with Fraser only hitting 9 off 36 balls (match reporter: it was the tight bowling and possibly a cracked Woodworm bat…) [Ed: perhaps the worms had been at the wood ...] Gus started to swing and edged one to short gully, bringing the Captain Jimmy into bat alongside Riaz, with the Cavs on 47/4 off 16 overs.

The Sri Lankans tight bowling and the pitch holding up continued, with Jimmy bowled for 5, and debutant Chris Evans replacing him, only to crack one into the covers into the air, caught for just the 1. Riaz Anwer caught for 15, with Glyn Poulsom staying in for his actual not out for 6. Twaits (ct, 4), Rabbit (LBW, 0) and Gog (bowled, 1) ended the Cavs innings for 78 all out, giving the Sri Lankans the win and the Cavs the first loss of the season - We obviously blamed the pitch.

Champagne Moment: Has to be the cracking catch over the head by Chapman off a hard pull shot to give Steve „Gog‟ Davis his 5 wicket haul.

Team: James Marchant (capt), Dave Parsons (wkt), Glenn Chapman, Chris Evans*, Glyn Poulsom, Riaz Anwar, Wyn Pritchard, Joey Newbury, Alasdair Fraser, Steve Davis, Mark Twaits. * denotes debutant

Bristol YMCA, Sat 25 April. Won by 1 wicket*. YMCA 185/9 (40 ovs, Buckle 4/32, Marchant 1/7, Steadman 1/12, Twaits 1/16, Davis 1/22, Duffy 1/39). Cav 186/8* (39.3ovs, Steadman 93, Duffy 30no, Marchant 16)

* Cavaliers only had 10 players so winning margin was by 1 wicket as this was all that was remaining

With the forecasters predicting showers and sunny spells with a brisk wind, this was always likely to be a typical early season contest in less than ideal conditions. From the Cavaliers perspective, the situation was not improved by Duffy omitting to pick up Pritchard en route, and Steadman jnr omitting to arrive before the tenth over.

The captain Jimmy Marchant, on a wicket he assessed as “spongy”, and having won the toss, concluded that it would be colder for the team fielding second, and wasted no time in inserting the opposition.

He may have reflected upon this decision as the YMCA, despite a couple of early breaks for brisk showers, settled in well, and reached 100 with only 2 wickets down. Twaits was the pick of the opening bowlers, bowling straight through to take 1 for 16 off 8 overs. Duffy, was taken to task by the YMCA‟s opener Chris Dowle who top-scored with 73, finishing with 1 for 39 off 5 overs. Mike Dawkins, making his Cavaliers debut, bowled tidily conceding 18 off his 4 overs. Brown as usual asked the batsmen a few challenging questions, but also looked a little rusty after his year‟s sabbatical, conceding 28 off his 4 overs. It was evident that he still has work to do in fully regaining his balance and timing, as he wrestled with his sleeveless sweater at the end of his spell, getting his head stuck in the armhole, and eventually handing it over to the umpire having abandoned the attempt.

Marchant bringing himself on for the 19th over, was effective in slowing the scoring rate, and finished with the excellent figures of 1 for 7 off 8 overs with 5 maidens, including an exceptional diving caught and bowled. Davis also demonstrated fearlessly the finer arts of fielding. Diving at mid off to stop a boundary, he failed to reach the ball with his hands, but succeeded in doing so with his head.

Fortunately Davis did himself little damage in the process, but with this demonstration of his commitment to the Cavaliers cause, he succeeded in attracting the captain‟s attention, and was subsequently invited to bowl. This proved to be a masterstroke of captaincy, with Davis although a little expensive, capturing the dangerous Dowle through a fine catch by Steadman jnr (having fortunately just arrived) in the deep, and finishing with 1 for 22 off 2 overs.

Marchant also demonstrated his skills in the art of coarse captaincy by recognizing that the conditions would ideally suit Buckle‟s unique bowling style, and so it proved. Bowling with the brisk wind at his back, his pace was causing problems for the lower order batsmen. Despite repeated temptations to bring on someone else, Marchant stuck by his judgement, and was rewarded by Buckle‟s figures of 4 for 32 off 6 overs, assisted by a sharp catch by the inestimable Davis at square leg. However, bowling at this intensity took its toll, as Buckle was forced to leave the field with a thigh strain, and Cavaliers finished as they started, with only 9 men in the field. Steadman jnr completed the bowling, taking 1 for 12 off 3 overs.

Following a good tea, Steadman jnr was generously invited to open the batting with JT. With a target of 186 off 40 overs, there was no need for undue haste, and a steady start was made before JT departed for 12 with the score on 23. Sparkes (9) and Marchant (16) both succeeded in getting in, and then getting out, the latter complaining of a bat with a dodgy toe. With Dawkins dismissed cheaply, and the score on 70 for 4, the YMCA were gaining the upper hand.

At this point, Duffy joined Steadman jnr at a critical stage of the game. As one colleague remarked, given their earlier indiscretions, these two both owed the team something. They duly met their debts in a fine partnership of 102. However, within sight of both victory and a well-deserved century, Steadman jnr came down the pitch, missed the ball, and was bowled by Dowle for 93. Davis, Twaits and Brown rapidly followed, and it was left to Buckle, batting as the last man with a runner (Steadman jnr), to join Duffy with 9 balls remaining and 7 runs required. Despite some tight closing bowling by Dowle (2 for 13), and Parker (2 for 14), judicious batting combined with impressive running brought this keenly contested fixture to a close with 3 balls remaining.

Notwithstanding the victory, there were mutterings in the bar about offering pre-season coaching, before the start of next season, in following instructions, using a watch, and reading a map.

Champagne Moment: Marchant‟s Diving Caught & Bowled.

Team: Jimmy Marchant (capt), Jason Duffy (vice capt), Jonathan Thomas (wkt), Andrew Steadman, Michael Dawkins*, Martin Buckle, Steve Davis, Mark Twaits, Graeme Brown, Jeremy Sparkes, [Wyn Pritchard**] * denotes debutant ** unfortunately, a mix up meant that he was never collected for his lift to Bristol and so was unable to play

Barry Wanderers, Sat 18 April. Won by 7 wickets. BW 145/9 (40 ovs, Fraser 3/26, Twaits 2/33, Bowen 1/2, Marchant 1/9, Duffy 1/11, Chapman 1/22). Cav 149/3 (28.4 ovs, J Thomas 50, Chapman 39, Adams 23no)

The first game of the 2009 season brought the crowds out in their masses (Glyn) to witness a fine performance from the Cavaliers, justifying the hard work being put in at pre season nets and the academy sessions which preceded them. Barry Wanderers were the hosts at the glorious setting of the Hayes Point ground at the old Sully Hospital which was pleasingly bathed in sunshine from the off.

The pitch was green, and although the toss was lost, no one seemed overly concerned that the hosts chose to bat first. The Woodworm-sponsored Cavaliers were looking keen, even managing the obligatory pre-game catching practice, and welcomed new recruit Al (Gus/Porsche) Fraser into their ranks for his debut [Ed: Al must wish he'd got a Hummer when it comes round to his turn and he has to fit in kit bags, scoreboard, picnic table and The Rabbit ...].

Roscoe (1-2 from 4 overs) and vice skipper Duffy (1-11 from 5 overs) opened up the bowling and immediately found the sloping pitch to their liking as they set about regularly beating the bat, and it was of no surprise that they each took the wicket of an opening batsmen, one caught by Gus Fraser and the other, a brilliant one handed catch diving low to his right by JT who did an excellent job behind the stumps all day, pouching 2 further catches.

Al (3-26 from 7 overs) and Grizz (0-14 from 3 overs) were the change bowlers, with Al in particular bowling a cracking first spell, beating the bat on numerous occasions and unluckily having a man put down at backward square leg.

With the skipper continuing his policy of rotating the bowlers to enable everyone to have bowl, Comrade Twaits (2-33 from 4 overs) shook off his early season rustiness and got to grips with the uneven pitch to pick up 2 wickets, including the opposition captain who generously walked after feathering one behind. Jimmy (1-9 from 4 overs) replaced Grizz and duly removed Gist for 31, who had formed a good partnership with Blundell (45) to drag the Wanderers score up to respectability.

Glenn (1-22 from 5 overs) and Gog (0-12 from 3 overs) were next to have a go followed by Dave (0-8 from 3 overs) and Steaders (0-6 from 2 overs) before Al came back for a second spell to pick up his 3 deserved wickets.

The innings ended with Barry on 145-9 from their 40 overs, which was a reflection on how well the Cavaliers had bowled and fielded on a fairly small ground. More importantly the skipper had given everyone a bowl and the chance to get some early season overs into their legs and only 2 tough catches went down.

A good tea was taken in high spirits, helped by the fact that Cardiff Blues were in the process of hammering Gloucester at Twickenham, before Steaders and JT set about chasing down the opposition total. After a slow start due to some accurate bowling and a still helpful pitch, both batsmen started to find the boundary boards before Steaders (12) had his off stump knocked back by a good ball with the score on 30.

Glenn joined JT, who was now striking the ball hard and true and he moved onto 50 from just 50 balls including 8x4 and 1x6. The partnership was worth 68 when JT (50), who was about to retire hurt after taking a full toss to the ribs, was bowled by the evergreen Ashton.

Grizz was next in and started off with a few scampered singles to get the blood pumping. The new partnership was worth 29 when Glenn (39) was out caught behind chasing the widest of wide ones, having already had a stroke of luck when the retreating long on tipped a chance over the boundary for 6.

Dave (4 not out) joined Grizz (23 not out) to comfortably complete the remaining run chase, finished with two cracking off side boundaries from Grizz, and it would have been interesting to have seen what total could have been achieved from the full quota of 40 overs given the depth of the Cavaliers batting line up and the fact that there were still 12 overs remaining.

Post match showers were livened up by the sight of Gog, wearing only a towel, bending over in front of a naked JT to advise that it was „starting to swell up a bit‟ – imagine all of our relief to establish that Gog was indeed talking about the bruise forming on JT‟s ribs, although you never can be too sure where Golden Arm is concerned.

An ideal start for what could and should be another successful but more importantly enjoyable season with the Cavaliers.

Champagne moment: JT‟s low, diving, one-handed catch off Jason. [Ed: this is a new feature this year as your Committee, becoming more ICC-like by the day, has accepted a new trophy - cos it's being paid for by someone else - which will be a sister award to the Pork Scratching Moment and presented at the annual dinner so reporters will nominate a moment from their match and a panel will adjudicate.]

Team: Jimmy Marchant (capt), Jason Duffy (vice capt), Jonathan Thomas (wkt), Dave Parsons, Ross Bowen, Nigel Adams, Alisdair Fraser*, Andrew Steadman, Glenn Chapman, Steve Davis, Mark Twaits. 12th man: Wyn Pritchard * denotes debutant

AGM – Officers’ Reports & Minutes (presented to 2009 AGM)

Chairman’s report

This was the year of our 30th Anniversary and the master in chief of events Glyn Poulsom organised a cornucopia of treats. The events were well supported by the membership and involved many of you in putting yourselves out to organise & get involved in the different events - Curry night (Grizz & Papa,) to Amsterdam (Browny, Ross & Jez ) & the 30 – 30 indoor challenge (won by Gog‟s Warriors) + Cameo Club (Glenn, JD & Duffers) to the Willow league celebration game (Magic Moore). We also visited Glamorgan‟s new ground at Sophia Gardens (Radar & Caesar), a new Dinner venue at the Masonic Lodge (Glyn & Jez) and we enjoyed an entertaining skittles night at the Halfway (Joey and Dave P). Also the “cow pat” Charabanc trip (JT). It was good to see some old faces turn up in the shape of our first Chairman Gary Parsons who was enticed to the lovely buffet at the Cameo & Paul Gorin who showed he still had the class to bat and bowl despite dashing for a quick run with double somersault and spin at the end & uttered the immortal words “never again“.

The season saw some more new blood join the Cavaliers community & receive a customary nickname. The continuing successful use of new IC technology, text messages & effort allowed people to have speedy communication of selection, results & reports. This allows me to raise the point that for 2009 we will be combining the efforts on the team fixtures arrangements into one complete Fixture Secretary role that ensures the Hon Sec has time for all the other requirements of his job. This will be supplemented by a new and separate role of Chair of selectors to sit separately with the Captain and Vice Captain.

The season was a success, not only in terms of results but also in the great fun and enjoyment that always prevails. A fantastic overseas weekend away with a win against very hospitable opposition and a professionally organised pair of games and transportation. This is bonded together by the true spirit of the Cavaliers who do not compromise on the right approach of competitiveness and sportsmanship. Throughout all the fixtures organised by the Willow League we have been very competitive and some of the defeats were close. The coaching proved a success and will continue in the hands of Andy (Dog Crusher) Steadman with Jimmy (Moody) Marchant providing advice & guidance.

On a personal note it was wonderful to see so many Cavaliers at the Annual Dinner where Warwick had set up a great display at our new location the Masons Lodge in Guildford Crescent. This supplemented all the work he had done throughout the year on the History of the club. It was good to see Graeme (Bish) Brown back in the swing sporting a new HEARTY approach to life.

I believe in 2008 as a team we played well and despite the rain had many games which were enjoyable. Sadly we could not play the cup final in 2008 but look forward to winning the trophy in 2009 (maybe twice). It was also great to see the indoor team win the inaugural competition of the Willow league in November 2008 (WIC-ket) - long may it continue for us all.

It only remains for me to thank all the other committee members for their invaluable contributions John (JT) Thomas as the Hon Treasurer who watches the Credit crunch for us, Ross (Villa) Bowen who‟s work in being Secretary of the clubs affairs is of great value and Jeremy (Without portfolio) Sparkes & Warwick (Big Ship) Armstrong who have contributed enormous amounts of energy to the organisation & History of the Cavaliers. I would also like to thank the other individuals whose contributions are vital Glyn (Spin Doctor) Poulsom who‟s help and advice are always invaluable & Nigel (Griz) Adams who has organised the fixtures. Also along with all those who have supported us in the games and other events throughout the year. Finally the captain James (most awards) Marchant and Jason (No sideburns?) Duffy who are our on the field “Heads of State” along with all those who have played for the Cavaliers during the season.

As I will step down at the AGM in 2009 I wish to thank you all for your help & support over the past 3 years and hope you will provide the new Chairman with the same commitment to your club Cardiff Cavaliers. We therefore look forward to 2009 in a solid position with a great organisation in place and great commitment to the team and its members.

Steve (Gog) Davis Captain’s report

2008 saw the Cavaliers celebrate their 30th anniversary and the season was one of great success. We equalled the number of wins in a season (13) and no doubt we would have notched up one more win if the weather had not turned so foul during August and September. The 2008 season also included us embark on an unbeaten cup run and some memorable weekend wins.

Summary: Played: 34 Won: 13 Lost: 20 Drawn: 1

At the beginning of the year we ran a coaching clinic that proved to be very successful as the improvement in the players who attended was clear to see throughout the season, those being Caesar, Rabbit, Vince, Tim, JD, Rabbit and Roakey who we have now lost to The Big Smoke. Thanks go to those who attended, to Jez and Ross for organising, Steaders and JD for their coaching.

It gave me great delight to see how well we have improved this season; we played with a real competitive edge and desire to win. On NO occasion did it look like we might collapse for something like 23 all out! There have been some great performances during the season; JT found another level to his batting and his keeping was superb. Mark Twaits was a great acquisition to the club and unlucky not pick up more wickets. Steaders was in great form once again. Another impressive all round performance from Glenn and as for the Gog‟s bowling I‟m not sure where he has been hiding those skills. There a few other milestones for players; Warwick passing a staggering 5000 career cavalier runs, Grizz for amassing 300 appearances and Joey for knocking up his maiden fifty and Nick Hutchings for getting our only ton of the season while we were on tour. Unfortunately, I cannot name everyone but you all have performed well this season and put in great effort. Importantly we always play game in the right spirit.

The season had numerous 30th anniversary events and I would like to thank all those involved for the effort and work they have put in, the highlight for me being the tour to Amsterdam. It was a fantastic few days away, maybe even the Hans Brinker added to this. The annual dinner was pretty much a full house; again proving what a great club it is to be a member of.

It was an honour for me to Captain the Cavaliers especially as it was the 30th anniversary of the club. It was new experience for myself being captain and I would like to thank all of you for your support and effort on and off the pitch throughout the year. Special thanks go to Ross, Gog, JT, Glyn, Jez and my vice captain Jason Duffy.

I‟d like to add that we recently took part in the inaugural indoor WIC-ket league, which we won. This included 3 other teams from the Willow league, the Casuals, Eclipse Print and Cardiff Bay Barbarians. It was a great squad effort with some fine performances coming from all, Jez was in great form with bat, and our new guy Al Fraser looks to be another fine acquisition to club. The successful squad was, Glenn Chapman, Jason Duffy, Dave Parsons, Ross Bowen, Jeremy Sparkes, Mark Searle, Jonathan Davies, Alasdair Fraser and Jimmy Marchant. Thanks to all and a special mention for Jason for organising the team selection.

Once again thanks to everyone for a fantastic season and may our good form continue into 2009.

Jimmy Marchant Secretary’s report

I always said that the person taking the Hon Secretary role after Jeremy will be like the poor chap following Fergie at Man U! The 2009 season certainly was eventful, and below are what I think are the key issues emerging from an administrative point of view:  This season brought into clear focus that we have been spoiled as a club with Jeremy‟s service over the past few years. I admit to finding it very difficult to keep my head above water at times this season, so thanks for all your patience.

 The membership levels and interest in the club were at record levels. The website continues to be a fantastic recruitment sergeant for the club. It is difficult to see how we would be in the position we are without it. I am particularly gladdened to see a new talented younger generation of Cavaliers emerging, and more importantly, the way those guys get along is encouraging that the Cavaliers will continue into the future, and be more than just a cricket club.

 The 2009 saw the club fielding stronger teams for League, Cup and Plate fixtures than in previous years. The success on the pitch appears to justify this approach, but the balance in involving all Cavaliers needs to be carefully balanced. It is extremely unfortunate that the midweek friendlies in the second half of this season were decimated by the weather, otherwise the balance would have been better.

 There were too many fixtures this season – 55 the highest ever. Although we were exceptionally unlucky not to play many, each fixture still involves checking availabilities, sending out teams, making changes due to drop outs, liaison with opposition and groundsman, and all too frequently, the ring around when the game was cancelled. The workload for a single person – particularly with a „normal‟ job is overwhelming. The Committee have resolved to help reduce the burden by limiting fixtures to a maximum of 45.

 A restructuring of the organisation of team selection, announcement and confirmation is needed. A separate report prepared by Jeremy will be outlined at the meeting. Essentially the 2009 season will rely on individual members taking more responsibility for their own level of participation.

 Fixture coordination needs some improving, as does the process for liaising with the opposition and decision making in relation to cancelling fixtures.

 We struggled on several occasions this season to field teams (particularly weekends) and unfortunately had to take to the field with only 10 men on one occasion. After several seasons of fantastic success in avoiding such problems, it was disappointing. The clubs increased membership levels appeared to be counter-productive on many occasions, with seemingly an attitude that „they‟ll find someone else to play‟.

 The Cup Final fiasco was a massive disappointment, so many thanks to players and supporters who continually had to ready themselves for new dates.

 The 30th anniversary events were tremendously successful, and hats off to all the volunteers who put in a lot of work to make it a success.

 Record numbers attended the Annual Dinner. The new venue proved to be an excellent alternative to the USM.

 I would like to express my sincere thanks for the help of the Committee and Members during family problems earlier in the year. Particular thanks go to Jeremy for taking on the team announcement and confirmation role. Ross Bowen Treasurer’s report The club‟s financial position as at 31st December 2008 may be summarised as follows: £ Balance at bank (Current and Savings accounts) 797.73 Cash in hand 20.00 Sub total 817.73 Less: known commitments - Funds available 817.73 B/f from 2007 (inc tour balances held) 2,600.44 Net outflow for 2008 (1,782.71) Although this appears to be a dramatic reduction in funds held it should be remembered that of the £2,600.44 held in the club‟s funds at the end of 2007, £1,296.60 related to monies collected for the Amsterdam tour which were due to be paid during 2008. Following a number of years where the financial strength of the club continued to grow we were able to start our 30th anniversary season in a position to celebrate our history and to support a range of events through significant subsidies. These are considered in more detail below, along with other comments on the detailed Income and Expenditure Account which is attached. Membership: We attracted 33 fully paid up, plus one partially paid up members to the club this year (35 in 2007), generating revenue of 840.00 (£880.00 in 2007). Match fees: Match fees were held at £2.00/£3.00 again this season. This year‟s total of £1,062.91 includes £176.00 collected from our opponents in respect of pitches (£156.00 in 2007) and teas (£46.00 in 2007), plus £126.00 collected from those participating in the indoor leagues. After adjusting for these, “normal fees” collected in 2008 totalled £741.91 against £768.65 in 2007. League and affiliation fees: We continued our affiliation with the Welsh Cricket Association (£40.00) and the Willow League (£25.00). We also paid £264.50 in respect of indoor league fees - £126.00 was recouped from those participating in 2008 and £117.50 should be recovered from those taking part in the league in the early part of 2009. Subsidies for anniversary and other events: We supported a number of events, subsidising these to the tune of £751.94 – the equivalent of over £22 for each fully paid-up member. 2008 was a special season and the level of subsidy for events in the coming year is unlikely to be repeated. The events are summarised as follows: Event Cost Collected Subsidy Curry Night - - - 30/30 Day 495.99 260.00 235.99 Glamorgan 20/20 Game 121.00 110.00 11.00 Charabanc Day 175.00 103.00 72.00 Willow League Anniversary Match 40.00 16.00 24.00 Skittles Night 65.00 65.00 - Club Dinner & Presentation Night 1,008.95 600.00 408.95 Total 751.94

Pitch Hire: total amount paid during 2008 was £920.40 although £176.00 was received from our opponents in friendly matches and a further £190.00 was reclaimed from the Willow League. After deducting these amounts from the total paid out, our “net pitches cost” was £554.40 compared with £409.26 in 2007. We are expecting the cost of pitches to increase in 2009 – we have already been advised of an increase in the cost of the hire of the Sportshall at the Cathedral School for nets in March and April. Clothing: the on-line shop generated £100 for Club funds and required no up-front financial commitment on our part. We also purchased a stock of 30th anniversary ties and, at the year end, had 6 remaining, representing a value of c. £60. The 2009 season: As at the end of 2008 we have no financial commitments. We have recently purchased two new bats and our equipment needs for the new season will probably be limited to a new kit bag, gloves and balls. As we now have two bank accounts – a current account and a savings account used for the collection of tour monies – we intend to make greater use of the savings account to invest funds and generate (modest) interest income. We are expecting our costs to increase during 2009 – primarily the hire of the Cathedral School‟s indoor facilities and the cost of pitches. However, by reducing the level of subsidies during the 2009 season and assuming that we will maintain membership levels, I believe it is possible to maintain membership and match fees at the current levels and this is something we will discuss at the AGM in January. The healthy financial position is down to you. Thank you. Jonathan Thomas

Cardiff Cavaliers Cricket Club Annual General Meeting: Minutes (approved at 2010 AGM) 25 January 2009, The Park Club, City Road, Cardiff

Present: Steve Davis (Chair), Jonathan Thomas, Ross Bowen, James Marchant, Mark Simpson, Glenn Chapman, Dave Parsons, Graeme Brown, Nigel Adams, Glyn Poulsom, Jeremy Sparkes, Geoff Lewis, Wyn Pritchard, Tim Rowland, Martin Buckle.

1. Apologies: Warwick Armstrong, Jason Duffy, Richard Davies, Mark Twaits, Nigel Moore, Kiran Ridley, Jonathan Davies, Joey Newbury, Derek Lewis, Matt Thomas, Andrew Steadman and Alistair Steadman.

2. Minutes of the previous AGM held on 27 January 2008 were approved as a true record.

3. Officers’ Reports for 2008

 Chairman (full report provided in advance to members and available on the web site) Enjoyable season and hoping for a successful 2009. Wished to thank Glyn Poulsom in particular for overseeing 30th Anniversary events.  Captain (full report provided in advance to members and available on the web site) Much improved competitiveness of team which was pleasing to see. Thanked team for all their efforts.  Secretary (full report provided in advance to members and available on the web site) Thanked members and committee for help over the season. Raised issues regarding need to delegate workload and introduce new selection protocol. Need to guard against complacency with large membership numbers.  Treasurer (full report provided in advance to members and available on the web site) Strong cash balance at the start of the season enabled the one-off subsidisation of Anniversary events. No financial commitments ahead of season and no major kit expenditure required. Pitch and indoor hall hire costs will rise, but club is in sound financial health.  Martin Buckle offered congratulations to the 2008 Committee for a successful season.

4. Team Selection Restructuring Jeremy Sparkes explained that the Committee had asked him to review existing arrangements and propose an alternative system. A report recommending changes was circulated to members prior to the meeting and available at the meeting. Selection panel to comprise Captain, Vice-Captain and newly appointed Convenor of Selectors (ideally to be senior non-playing or limited playing member). Process of team announcements was explained, using new email address and telephone message system. Emphasis firmly on members to be responsible for their own level of participation. Ross Bowen thanked JS on behalf of the Committee. Nigel Adams raised issue that changes would need a revision to the Club Constitution which currently states that the Hon Sec is the third selector.

Vote taken on authorising Committee to amend the Constitution as appropriate and to support the proposed changes outlined in the report: unanimously approved.

RB to draft amendments to Constitution, and will ensure its uploading to the website and inclusion on the 2009 AGM Agenda.

5. Election of Officers for the 2009 Season. The following were elected un-opposed: Chairman: Jonathan Thomas (moved by Ross Bowen, seconded by Glyn Poulsom) Captain: James Marchant (moved by Jeremy Sparkes, seconded by Geoff Lewis) Secretary (revised role as detailed above): Ross Bowen (moved by Steve Davis, seconded by Glyn Poulsom) Treasurer: Dave Parsons (moved by Jonathan Thomas, seconded by Mark Simpson)

Vice-Captain will also join the Committee once chosen by the Captain. The appointment of the Convenor of Selectors will be made by the Committee.

6. Subscriptions, match fees and budget for 2009 No financial commitments at present. Some increase in costs such as midweek pitch hire (£38 increasing to £45), weekend pitch hire (£50-60) and indoor school hire (£31.50 – 39). Consideration has been given to raising subscriptions and match fees, but decided against it. If achieving similar membership levels an income of £800 will be received, and this amount should cover the necessary subsidy to cover increased match fees. Club are sensitive to the difficult financial climate and therefore membership will remain at £25, midweek fees at £2 and weekend fees at £3. This was agreed.

7. Kit Inventory Glyn Poulsom has inspected the kit along with Jeremy Sparkes. Generally in good condition, but the bags are falling apart. Wyn Pritchard commented “one of the bags was a bit knackered”. Jeremy Sparkes has acquired a scorebook, but still to purchase boundary markers and balls. JS confirmed that the club clothing store „House of Suka‟ will continue, with initial consideration given to approaches by alternative suppliers. JS registered his thanks to all who have looked after the kit.

8. Tour arrangements 2009 Glenn Chapman confirmed venue as Twickenham, date as Friday 31st July – Sunday 2nd August. Hotel confirmed as Pope‟s Grotto. Games confirmed against Fulham Taverners and Hampton Hill, both within a mile of hotel. Travel will be by car-sharing (the cheapest option). Cost on twin share bed and breakfast basis will be £90 per person. Payment can be in full or deposit and monthly standing order. Booking forms were circulated and will be available on the website. Glyn Poulsom registered a vote of thanks for Glenn‟s excellent organisation of the tour.

9. Coaching and Nets 2009 Jeremy Sparkes recorded thanks to James Marchant and Andrew Steadman for running the inaugural Academy in 2008 – an excellent programme which has led to considerable improvement in student‟s abilities and knowledge. Both have agreed to run the Academy this year. Change to format will see two groups of 6 – beginners/re-freshers and fine-tuners. Cost will be £20 and will be self-financing.

Nets commence at 26th March and run every Thursday from 8-9.30pm into the start of the season. JS recommended Committee appoint net managers as per 2008 to oversee smooth running of sessions.

10. Willow League Cup 2008 Update Ross Bowen advised that a single date had been agreed with South Glam : Tuesday 19th May at St Fagans. Cup will be shared if fixture cannot be played. Nigel Adams asked whether new players would be eligible. Agreed that selection for all players for 2009 season will be considered on merits by selectors.

11. Draft Fixtures 2009 Nigel Adams explained that many fixtures were already in place including Casuals on a weekend. Four weekend home games to be played at Cathedral School. Prospect of Charabanc day raised, but members agreed with Committee‟s recommendation that this is cancelled this year given poor recent support and the financial risk the club are exposed to in case of cancellation of match. Ross Bowen advised that Willow League fixtures are not yet finalised. Key points of Willow League AGM ran through: changes to league scoring system, cup rules (batsmen now retire at 25), new standard balls for all games. Cardiff Cricket and Hockey elected to League. Probation teams will be invited to join extended cup competition. Umpiring standards to be improved, no discretion to be used e.g. a wide is a wide whether it is first ball or last.

12. Any Other Business Jeremy Sparkes highlighted that the club now have a youth policy, available on website. Registered thanks to webmaster. Asked for volunteer to update historical statistics on website.

Graeme Brown expressed sincere thanks for the club‟s support last year. Asked whether there should be any special event to coincide with the Ashes.

Glyn Poulsom thanked outgoing committee, especially Steve Davis‟ outstanding service over the last 3 years. Vote of thanks to all volunteers for 30th Anniversary events. Suggested Committee consider running another curry night as pre-cursor to season.

Steve Davis proposed testimonials for Mark Simpson in 2009 and Ross Bowen in 2010 for Committee to consider. Both nominations made in recognition of service as players and officers.

Glyn Poulsom announced retirement from playing, Steve Davis still hopes to persuade him to make the occasional appearance. Sentiment echoed by all.

Nigel Adams asked for the AGM to be moved back to a midday start. However, the majority of those present preferred the tea-time start and it was suggested that the new committee consider whether a mid-week date might be better for the next AGM.

13. Closing Remarks

Steve Davis gave a closing address on behalf of the President, thanking members and wishing a successful season ahead. SD and GP announced that they would like to donate a new trophy for the „Champagne Moment‟ of the season – a memorable moment of excellence in the season. ------