Cardiff Cavaliers 2017 Archive In this document you will find: Officers Awards Results Averages AGM details Match Reports 2017 Officers 2017 Honorary President – Graham ‘ Joey’ Newbury Chairman – Jason Duffy Captain – James Marchant Vice-Captain – Kieran Gandhi Secretary – Glenn Chapman Treasurer – Jonathan Thomas Fixtures – Gareth Payne & Nigel Adams Awards 2017 Batsman – Glenn Chapman Bowler – Nigel Adams Player of the year – James Marchant Clubman – Mike McVeigh Most Improved Player– Gareth Payne Champagne Moment – Andrew Graveson (catch v Medics) Testimonial – Glenn Chapman

2017 Fixtures and Results

Game  No   Day   Date   Time   Opposition   Comp   H/A   Venue   Win/Loss  1   Sat     22-­‐Apr   1.30pm   Barry  Wand.   F   A   Hayes  Point   L  

2   Tue   02-­‐May   6pm  W'church  Heath   F   A   Whitchurch   L  

3   Thu         04-­‐May   6pm   Glamorgan  C.   WL   A  Llantwit  Fadre   L  

4   Sun   07-­‐May   1.30pm   Cwm  Taf   F   A   Merthyr   W  5   Thu         11-­‐May   6pm   Glenwood  C.   WL   H   Cath.  School   A  6   Thu         17-­‐May   6pm   Casuals   Cup   A   Wenvoe   N/A  7   Sun   21-­‐May   1.30pm   Casuals   F   A   Wenvoe   L  8   Tue   23-­‐May   6pm   Hurricanes   F   H   Cath.  School   W  9   Thu         25-­‐May   6pm   Casuals   Cup   A   Wenvoe   W  10   Tue   30-­‐May   6pm   Medics   WL   H   Cath.  School   L  11   Wed   31-­‐May   6pm   Mitres   F   H   Cath.  School   L  12   Sun   04-­‐Jun   1.30pm   Bargoed   F   H   Cath.  School   N/A  13   Tue   06-­‐Jun   6pm   Cwm  Taf   F   H   Cath.  School   N/A  14   Thu         08-­‐Jun   6pm   Media  Wales   F   H   Cath.  School   N/A  15   Sun   11-­‐Jun   1.30pm   Abercarn   F   A   Abercarn   N/A  16   Thu         15-­‐Jun   6pm   Eclipse   WL   A   St  Fagans   L  17   Fri   16-­‐Jun   6pm   Testimonial   F   H   Cath.  School   N/A  18   Tue   20-­‐Jun   6pm   C.  Trust   Cup   H   Cath.  School   L  19   Fri   23-­‐Jun   6pm   Ide  CC   F   H   Cath.  School   W  20   Tue   27-­‐Jun   6pm   Celtic  Hawks   WL   H   Cath.  School   L  21   Thu         29-­‐Jun   6pm   WAG  Housing   F   H   Cath.  School   L  22   Sun   02-­‐Jul   1.30pm   Llanvapley   F   H   Cath.  School   N/A  23   Tue   04-­‐Jul   6pm   Casuals   L   H   Cath.  School   W  24   Sun   16-­‐Jul   1.30pm   Cwm  Taf   F   H   Cath.  School   N/A  25   Tue   13-­‐Jul   6pm   Celtic  Hawks   L   H   Cath.  School   Tied  26   Tue   18-­‐Jul   6pm   Eclipse   L   H   Cath.  School   W  

27   Thu         20-­‐Jul   6pm  W'church  Heath   F   H   Cath.  School   L  

28   Tue   25-­‐Jul   6pm   Medics   L   H   Cath.  School   L  29   Tue   01-­‐Aug   6pm   C.  Trust   F   H   Cath.  School   N/A  30   Thu         03-­‐Aug   6pm   Casuals   F   H   Cath.  School   N/A  

31   Sun   06-­‐Aug   1.30pm  Barry  West  End   F   H   Cath.  School   W  

32   Tue   08-­‐Aug   6pm   Pentyrch   F   A   Pentrych   N/A  33   Thu         10-­‐Aug   6pm   CB  Dragons   F   H   Cath.  School   L  34   Fri   18-­‐Aug   6pm   Bohemians  CC   F   A   Bristol   A  35   Sun   20-­‐Aug   1.30pm   Hambrook  CC   F   A   Hambrook   W  36   Sun   03-­‐Sep   1.30pm   Barry  WE   F   A   Barry   N/A  37   Sun   10-­‐Sep   1.30pm   Lisvane   F   A   Lisvane   N/A  38   Sun   23-­‐Sep   1.30pm   Barry  Wand.   F   A   Hayes  Point   L  

                 WL   Willow  League              Cup   Willow  League  Cup  

         F   Friendly              FTW   Full  Toss  /Willow  League  Cup  

       

Averages Batting

Bowling / Fielding

AGM Minutes 2017 6.40pm Thursday 26th January 2017 Upstairs bar, The Cameo Club, Pontcanna Present: Glyn Poulsom, Jonathan Thomas, Glenn Chapman, Jim Marchant, Jason Duffy, Geraint Morgans, Ally Parkhurst, Bill Ward, Mike Dawkins, Kiiran Gandhi (11) 1. Apologies: Nigel Adams, Graeme Brown, Andy Graveson, Mike McVeigh, Dave Davies, Phil Davies, Mark Twaits, Gareth Payne, Joey Newbury, Danny Seaward. 2. Minutes of the previous AGM held on 29th Jan 2016 approved as a true record. 3. Officers’ reports on the 2016 Season a. Chairman - provided via mailchimp. Tough season again with Rhiwbina withdrawing leaving just 4 teams. Still happy to win the league and reach the cup final again. Disappointing to cancel tour but hope it was just a blip as important touring year in 2018. Thanks to committee and others who work behind the scenes. b. Captain - provided via mailchimp. Performances were excellent although shame to lose another cup final to a strong Eclipse team. Sunday availability still poor. c. Secretary - provided via mailchimp. Disappointed by tour cancellation after JT had worked hard on fixtures but optimistic it was just a blip. Volunteers still needed. d. Treasurer - provided via mailchimp. 30 paid up members, 26 attending the dinner. All 20 of club ties sold. Club overspent this year, so need to address this coming season. 4. Election of Officers for the 2017 Season a. Chairman: Jason Duffy (nominated GC, seconded GlP) b. Captain: Jimmy Marchant (nominated GC, seconded GlP/JT) c. Secretary: Glenn Chapman (nominated JM, seconded BW) d. Treasurer: Jonathan Thomas (nominated GlP, seconded AP) 5. Willow League 2017 - Vote of thanks to Glyn Poulsom who will be Willow League Chairman for the coming season on behalf of the Cavaliers. - Approach received from Full Toss League to merge/join. - Glamorgan Centurions, Glenwood Church, Cardiff Medics, Celtic Hawks - Discussions to take place at next Willow meeting as to format, rules etc. Watch this space. Positive to have more teams to play against and a more meaningful league programme. 6. Subscriptions, match fees and budget for 2017 - JT advised that it was always the plan to try and give something back to members at the dinner as it was so well attended (26/30). - Club funds took a hit thanks to trophies, wine & dinner subsidy. - To stabilise funds, propose no subsidy at the dinner or testimonial with payment upfront to avoid paying for non-attendees.

- Try and maintain a min buffer (£500) in club acct. - Propose to continue to fund nets, insurance & kit etc where required. - Propose to keep membership (£30/£35) & match fees (£3/£4) the same. - Proposal passed by membership present. 7. Fixtures - Will need to see how Willow League fixtures and format pans out before we can provide a full fixture list. - Await update from NA on weekend games but keen to try and ensure Casuals x2 remains on the weekend fixture list. - GP will look to fit midweek friendlies in once Willow plans known. - Vote of thanks to NA & GP. 8. Tour arrangements for 2017 & 2018 Tour 2017 - Bristol 18/19/20 Aug. - BW advised that Bohemians CC booked in for T20 on Fri. - GP looking to see if can organise a game on the Sunday. - AP will also check on site (Fixture List) to try and secure Sun game. - Suggest reserving 7/8 rooms (BW & KG) Tour 2018 - JM would ask GB contact Majorca CC to book dates for games. - Once have rough itinerary, can then promote (4 nights). - Can then sort hotels and flights. - JT - £50 in acct from Gog 9. Nets, 2017 - Already organised by MM (4 weeks x 90 mins at £47.50 per session). - JT suggested keeping cost at £2pp per session. - Helmets must be worn by all batsmen at nets. - Proposal passed by membership present. - Vote of thanks to MM. 10. Kit inventory - MD advised that AS had one bag that he could not check. - Everything in main kookaburra bag ok bar one set of pads - Only on umpire counter present. - AF donated bat at last game that is not in the bag (MD to check with AF) - Have two helmets that need TLC (brown one needs 2 nuts, blue one foam) - JM to purchase 12 balls (as 10 left), 1x counter and scorebook. 11. Any Other Business - Testimonial JM really enjoyed his day, great turnout so try and keep the date. GC awarded testimonial in 2017 – passed by membership present. Would book Fri 16th July - Dinner Happy to stay at Holland House BW ended up on train to Chepstow and had to get taxi to Bristol! Vote of thanks to GlP, GB, JD & GC) GB to book Fri 10th November - Curry night Propose Kasturi on Fri 7th April KG volunteered to book

- Match reports One outstanding – Siva JM thought that they needed to be in within 2 days or meaningless. Keep naming and shaming those that are late. KG felt they were a good thing & part of the fabric of the club. Propose to at least post scorecard where match report not done to maintain full record. - General GM – thanked everyone for having him along as found it very enjoyable BW – would check with AG about net domain GC – very disappointed with turnout at AGM JD – worth looking at digital print format rather than stitch for kit and sponsorship to raise funds for club. JM – proposes to change kit supplier as issues with Kalabazaar service. Would look into it. Meeting closed at 7.45pm Match Reports V Barry Wanderers, Friendly, Sat 22nd April 2017, Hayes Point Barry Wanderers 249/4 (40 overs) Cavaliers 98 all out (39.1 overs) Barry Wanderers won by 151 runs.

Beloved reader it is that time of year again when brave Cavaliers venture out to face the brutal cold of Spring and take to the field of cricket battle and wield the mighty willow. The venue as tradition dictates is the old Sully isolation hospital where Wanderers ply their trade and the quiet of the green is punctuated by the grunt of bowler exerting maximum effort from the graveyard of the early season wicket and batsmen thrash the wayward bowl to the boundary either up or down the hill. That’s the theory and poetry of the game anyway, the reality is sometimes different. We arrived at said venue a band of hopeful Cavaliers with the start of another season in our sights and our loins girded with strength and sinew to represent our marvellous club. Then we saw the group of twenty/ thirty year olds waiting to face us and the disadvantage was obvious. We believe it was probably a bit of a pre-season run out for some of the first teamers. The ground looked very good.

In our team we had five players in their 50s and 60s who although keen and eager could not hope to match the youthful nature of the opposition, however we gave of our best and took the game into the 40th over of our innings which closed around 18.30 with the cold Northerly wind blowing through our grey and white hair. During the day we had Mike McVeigh supporting and showing the latest Cavaliers club shirt which has a special insert to inject players with vim & vigour.

Also present were the ever young looking Mike Dawkins with 10 year old Ellis who is an upcoming rugby star and Mrs Graveson with family. I believe I have captured all supporters dear reader but please forgive any omissions as the ravings of an addled mind, riddled with thoughts of future retirement in 2018 from work.

The wanderers took first knock and the wicket was a decent one with it keeping a little low at one end, opening the bowling was the youthful Graveson who had been lying dormant over the Winter but who put in maximum effort and the effervescent 62 year old Gog of the North who tried his best but could not control his effort ball. That man Graveson took

the first wicket bowled neck & crop and finished with 5 overs 1 for 47 and Gog 4 overs 0 for 26. Ali Ramagowda & Ali Parkhurst were first change and bowled well with Ali 5 overs 0 for 29 and Adi 5 overs 1 maiden – 1 for 24. Skipper Marchant and Panda Bowen were next up and the bowling star Cyril March was 4 overs 1 maiden 0 for 9 and Panda Villa 5 overs 1 for 27. Spin twins 60 year old Adams Grizzly with 5 overs 1 for 33 and 63 years old Poulsom Ex, Ex, Ex of the Freemantle Doctor delivery who rivalled Tacky Marchant for the star bowler title with 4 overs 0 for 13. Glyn also took the catch for Grizz’s wicket. Final overs were delivered by Jack Parry 2 overs 0 for 26 when the batsmen were flaying leather and J “Havers“ Thomas a good penultimate over, 1 over 0 for 6. The Wanderers finished on 249 for 4 off 40 overs, batsmen scoring 22, 44, 39, 31 and 49n.o & 37 n.o. The 67 year old Dai Davies kept well and suffered a few bruises in his magnificent efforts.

A wonderful tea was taken in the “Mike Ashton“ pavilion and strawberries with gorgeous cream cake was much enjoyed, many thanks to the wonderful tea ladies who provide scrumptious fare.

Opening the Cavaliers innings were Havers “JT” Thomas and “Mezzo soprano” Jack the lad Parry. Jack also plays for Wanderers when he is not busking around the streets of LLandaff.

avaliers were resilient in their batting and were all out for 98 after 39.1 overs, nine players were bowled and a catch was the final wicket. The scores and individual batsmen contributions were:

J Thomas 0, J Parry 4, R Bowen 0, A Ramagowda 1, N Adams 10, A Parkhurst 5, A Graveson28, A Parkhurst 7, G Poulsom n.o 5, S Davis 0 and D.Davies 0. Top scorer was extras with 39.

My dear friends we made great efforts to combat the youthful guys of the Wanderers but we were beaten by a better side with skills that were evident from years of coaching presumably, good luck for the season to them. Cavaliers look forward to another season of cricket in their 39th year.

Whitchurch Heath CC, friendly, Whitchurch, Tuesday 2nd May 2017

Whitchurch Heath CC: 110/6 (18 overs)

Cavaliers 106/8 (18 overs)

Whitchurch Heath won by 4 runs.

A very pleasant if not warm evening kicked off the Cavaliers midweek season with the team looking to bounce back from opening day disappointment at Barry Wanderers. Phil, a former Whitchurch Heath player did little to quell any nerves by spotting a number of first team players in the opposition ranks.

Steve Davis advised your match reporter that the ground was originally a pig farm, before its more familiar incarnation as a ‘Mental Hospital’ as recorded in the book, with the date helpfully listed as “today” J. Your match reporter thought this a sign of potential pork scratching nominees and a keen eye on proceedings was maintained.

The Captains agreed to reduce the game to 18 overs to take account of the fading light at the end of the match. This was a wise move to ensure the game could finish without the need for head torches, and a thrilling finale ensued…..

Whitchurch won the toss and chose to bat first. Jimmy opened the attack with Bowen and the Gog, with a pretty tidy start from both with Whitchurch 24/1 off the first 6 overs, Jimmy

taking a catch for Ross. Mike and Phil kept things pretty tight to leave Whitchurch perhaps slightly under par at 53/1 off 11. Opener Coombs was starting to open his shoulders punishing a few loose deliveries through midwicket. Jack and Jimmy did a great job, picking up a 2 wickets a piece towards the business end of the innings, Jimmy bowling Coombs one shy of his half century. The sight of some of Whitchurch Heath’s younger batsmen encouraged Jimmy to keep himself in the attack – clearly on the lookout for those end of season awards. Whitchurch finished on 110 runs.

Matt and Gareth opened for Cavs, but both fell to the deadly Mr C.Gul. Clearly his regular bowling partners Mr G.Raffe and Mr C.Lion were rested for this one. Matt and Gareth fell for 5 and 6 respectively, and JT was run out for 2 following some confusion in the middle. Steve Nash fell first ball in desperately unlucky fashion, defending his first delivery, but the ball rolling back and disturbing the bails. Mike went for 1 and Jack for 5 leaving the Cavaliers innings in tatters at 19/5 at one point.

Phil and Jimmy set about turning the game on its head with a brilliant partnership, and belief on the boundary began to grow with the 87/6 in the 15th over. However, Phil fell for an excellent 45 when he didn’t quite connect with one and was caught. Bowen joined Jimmy, and the plan was clear – get the skipper on strike as much as possible. The pair worked well together to leave 7 needed for victory from the final 6 balls, in very gloomy light. Bowen managed to scramble a single off the first ball. Jimmy couldn’t get the second ball away and on the third Bowen sacrificed himself returning for a second to the non-strikers end to ensure Jimmy retained strike. Unfortunately though, some good bowling from Mr Gul and some misfortune for Jimmy meant we didn’t quite get home.

An excellent recovery from the boys though and plenty to be pleased with this early in the season.

MOTM – Phil, changed the game in the Cavaliers favour from a position of despair with some lusty blows including 2 sixes.

Champagne moment: JT’s first of two excellent one handed diving stops at backward point to save certain boundaries.

Batting details

Matt Thorpe 5

Gareth Payne 6 [1×4]

Jonathan Thomas 2

Steve Nash 0

Mike Dawkins 1

Jack Parry 5 [1×4]

Phil Davis 45 [5×4, 2×6]

*James Marchant 24 not out [4×4]

Ross Bowen 4

Steve Davis 0 not out

+David Davies DNB

Bowling details + catches/stumpings

Ross Bowen 3-0-10-1

Steve Davis 3-0-0-14

Mike Dawkins 3-0-0-19

Phil Davis 2-0-0-9

James Marchant 3-0-2-16

Jack Parry 3-0-2-23

Steve Nash 1-0-0-16

Catches: Marchant x 2, Thomas x 1.

vs Glam Centurions, Willow League @ Llantwit Fadre, 4th May

Cavaliers 136/7 (20 ovs)

Centurions 159/5 (20 ovs)

Centurions won by 23 runs

Lovely sunny but brisk evening for the first Willow League game of the season, against Glamorgan Centurions, up at Llantwit Fadre. Nice ground, quite big, and difficult to get to if not been before (note website directions wrong). Looking at their team, we recognised a few of them, most fairly young, and some known accomplished batsmen. Jimmy unfortunately lost the toss, and they decided to bat first.

Opening the bowling was Danny ‘C Word, The Word, Fifteen to One, The Chase, Eggheads, Going For Gold, Countdown, Pictionary, Monopoly’ Seaward, and Phil Davies. C Word struck in his first over, removing the opener for a duck. The pair kept it reasonably tight, with C Word taking further wickets in his 3rd and 4th overs, at which point they were 35/3 off 7 overs and Cavs on top. Then came in Bluett and Langford, both recognised batsmen, and known for being able to hit hard. And unfortunately, they put on a decent stand of 60, scoring well off Davis, Duffy and Fraser. Fraser trapped Bluett LBW and Jimmy picked up a wicket, but they got a challenging total of 159/5 off 20 overs.

After a quick turnaround, Cavaliers opened up with Phil and Payney. Phil struck a few lusty blows before being caught for 32, and Gareth looking in decent shape before being bowled for 7. After 8 overs we were ahead of the rate at 61/2 off 8. Thorpe trapped LBW for 10, Glenn in good nick for a decent 25, but the run rate started drifting away from us. The task became too great, with wickets falling regularly, Jimmy 14, Jack for 5, C Word for 7. Nash 16 and Fraser 7 not out. We got to 136/7 off the 20.

Disappointing result, looked rusty in the field, and not yet in full flow with the bat or the ball. Improvements to be made if we are going to make an impact in the league and the cup.

Champagne moment: Probably C Words figures of 3 for 12.

Batting details

P Davis – 32

G Payne – 7

M Thorpe – 10

G Chapman – 25

J Marchant – 14

Jack – 5

D Seaward – 7

S Nash – 16no

A Fraser – 1no

DNB – J Duffy, M Dawkins

Bowling details

D Seaward 4-0-12-3

P Davis 4-0-28-0

J Duffy 4-0-45-0

A Fraser 4-0-34-1

J Marchant 4-0-38-1

vs Cwm Taf , Hoover Cricket Ground Penrebach, Sunday 7th May 2017

Cavaliers 220 – 8

Cwm Taf 168 all out

Cavaliers won by 52 runs

It was a cool start to the morning in Cardiff but by the time of start of play at the Hoover Ground it was a very pleasant temperature and despite the six octas of cumulous cloud cover that did break up a little as the afternoon progressed the light was very good for the whole of the afternoon. A number of players arriving in cars overshot the entrance to the ground, immediately on the left after a exiting the roundabout at the edge of the ground and were forced to retrace their steps to enter the parking area.

The ground was in very good condition and the pitch looked good for batting following the dry spell we had experienced over the past month or so. Our illustrious captain won the toss and fearing the worst of a much younger looking Sri Lankan side with our older walking wounded players, decided that rather than prolong a possible mammoth run chase by letting the opposition bat first the Cavaliers should post the necessary score to be chased down.

Steve Nash and JT opened the batting and with the opposition bowling accurately runs were initially hard to come by with Steve struggling to put bat on ball. JT was positive in his approach and as he got his eye in the runs started to flow; a number of poorly directed leg side deliveries were severely punished, with one shot nearly taking out the “old man” umpiring at square leg. With another scoring shot reaching the boundary and taking his total to 52 off 49 deliveries JT had to retire and saving himself for a possible onslaught in the latter stages of the innings, if our following batsmen were unable to keep the Sri Lankans at bay. Mark joined Steve in the middle but when Steve was bowled in the 17th over for 17 runs off 60 deliveries the score was a respectable 88 runs; laying the bedrock for the remainder of the innings. Griz marched out to bat in a positive frame of mind and with a full flowing strike for 4 runs off Mark’s third delivery there was early promise for an encouraging partnership; but Mark then struggled to find ball with bat and facing his eighth delivery with the score on 98 he had to depart for the pavilion having been adjudged to be LBW. Jim then strode to the wicket ( was that a stride or a hobble??? ) to join Griz and initially appeared unusually uncomfortable in his batting, only managing to score two singles in his first 13 deliveries but on the 14th he pierced the field to his first boundary.

Griz was playing well, opening the face of his bat to one delivery to steer it to the third man boundary for 4 runs and then making two flashing square cuts for another two boundaries. Unfortunately, a flashing cover drive from Jim and some nice positive strokes from both players only managed to find fielders; and Jim, hampered with his injured leg, struggled to take the easy singles that were on offer. With the partnership on 48, and the total standing at 146 Griz fell to a catch behind prodding at one outside off stump for 25 runs off 34 deliveries and the total on 148. Adi took to the field, intent to do well and “warmly greeted” by his opposition Asian cousins. Jim was now getting the feel of the pitch and two lovely shots from him in the 30th over earned him a boundary and a single stopped just short of the boundary; whilst on the first ball faced, Adi ‘s “play and miss” was greeted with a vociferous appeal for a catch behind by, it appeared, all the opposition players no matter where they were on the field. Rightfully given “not out” he opened his scoring with a very delicate push into the off, but he was bowled on a wild swing to leg, for just 2 runs off the 5th delivery faced; much to the joy of the opposition players.

Next man in Gareth took to the field, and with a nice “pelvic thrust” evasive action to dodge his first delivery earned the team a bye, but although showing attacking intent he faced another 6 deliveries before managing to finding the boundary for the first time and open his scoring. This success incentivised Gareth and the next ball was brutally dispatched over the leg side boundary markers and fence for 6 runs. Fortunately, the ball landed in some scrub on the other side of the fence otherwise a bouncing ball could have caused havoc on the quite busy road alongside the field. The 6 was followed with another shot to the square leg boundary for 4 and a single to end the 33rd over.

Jim was out, caught at point off the 1st ball of the next over for his total 17 and Joe joined Gareth in the middle, but not for long; as Gareth miscued a shot and was caught at mid off. With Gareth’s departure Gog made the long walk out to the middle, but after only facing three balls he was adjudged LBW and had to make the longer walk back, without troubling the scorers. Mike McVeigh hobbled out to take guard; being enjoined to take no quick singles and immediately tried to hit one to leg; appearing in his circumstances, to be the worst shot he could make, especially when he failed make contact with the ball. Joe in the meantime had taken the first six balls faced to get his eye in, but the next two balls faced were dispatched to the boundary with some style. Our target of 200+ appeared to be slipping beyond our grasp when he was bowled in the 37th over with the total on 188. The team’s “elder statesman” then trundled out to join Mike as a spectator as he plundered the bowling, and set out to get us to our (200+) target and beyond. Singles were not in his repertoire and with six fours, a six and the occasional single to maintain the strike he ended the innings on 34 not out; achieving a final total for the team of 220, with the assistance of 45 extras.

After tea was taken in the pavilion the “Cavaliering Hobblers,” sorry, Cardiff Cavaliers took to the field to defend their total with Adi opening the bowling and supported with Gog’s “moon balls” to whom the first wicket nearly fell in the first over when he totally bamboozled the opposition No 2 opener in his first over, but the ball rolling along the ground could not be grasped by the team’s “elder statesman” keeping wicket, and a stumping chance went begging. Adi in the meantime was bowling well, but the opposition’s No 2 bat was in ominous form crashing the ball to the boundary time after time, so that at the end of their 4 allotted overs each, both bowlers had leaked 33 runs, although Gog grabbed the bragging rights with his one wicket when he had the opening bat bowled in his second over.

Although the opposition bowled and subsequently batted quite well, the same could not be said for the maintenance of the score book and deciphering entries gets very difficult.

Mark and Jim then entered the fray in the ninth and tenth overs and whereas Mark’s four overs cost him 30 runs with no wickets to his name. Jim bowled his first four overs for 9 runs taking two wickets, one was a good catch by Mark hiding in the shadows of the trees on the legside boundary off a very good flat hit, to dismiss the opposition’s No 6 batsman, who with their No2 who retired on reaching his 50 appeared capable of taking the game away from us. Joe and Griz took over the bowling duties in the 17th and 18th overs respectively with Joe ending his four over allotment with one wicket for 26 runs, whilst Griz took a wicket with his first ball and then a second in the same over before starting his second over in the same way as the first, giving him three wickets for 16 runs at the end of his four allotted overs. Jim re-entered the bowling list in the 21st over with the Sri Lankans score on 129, taking two wickets with his first two balls in a maiden over; and although being hit for one four in the second over of this spell, ended his afternoon’s graft with figures of 4 for 13. With Jim’s dismissal of the opposition’ s No 11 batsman their No 2 batsman was able to return to the crease and continue his innings. An ominous sign, as with the No 4 batsman still going strong, it appeared that our 220 might still not be enough to assure us victory. Mike was bowling from the other end and in his two and a half overs returned figures of 1 for 7 when the opposition’s No 4 batsman was adjudged

to be LBW in his third over for a score of 42. This left the No 2 batsman high and dry on 52 with the Sri Lankans total score of 168 in 29.4 overs.

A very pleasing result for the Cavaliers on a beautiful spring afternoon in a game played in good spirit by both sides. Although there were no champagne moments to speak of in the game, the Cavaliers efforts in the field were very good with no dropped catches and some commendable ground fielding from a number of players. Mike McVeigh needs mentioning in dispatches, and the team’s thanks, for turning out to play despite the pain his efforts will ultimately result in this coming week; firstly to help post a very competitive score and secondly to assist in the bowling attack.

Cavaliers Batting (220 -8)

J Thomas 52 (Retired) (4 x 9)

S Nash 17 (4 x 2)

M Twaits 4 (4 x 1)

N Adams 24 (4 x 5)

J Marchant 17 (4 x 3)

Adi 2

G Payne 15 (4 x 2) (6 x 1)

G Newbury 8 (4 x 2)

S Davies 0

M McVeigh 34 (NO) (4 x 6) (6 x 1)

D Davies 1 (NO)

Cavaliers Bowling

Adi (4 – 0 – 23 – 0)

S Davis (4 – 0 – 33 – 1)

M Twaits (4 – 0 – 30 – 0) 1 ct

J Marchant (6 – 1 – 13 – 4)

G Newbury (4 – 0 – 30 – 0)

N Adams (4 – 0 – 16 – 3)

M McVeigh (2.2 – 0 – 7 – 1)

Extras (23) (Wd – 18) (Lb -5)

vs Cardiff Casuals, friendly, Sunday, 21st May 2017, Wenvoe

Casuals 173 for 7 off 40 overs

Cavaliers 124 for 8 off 40 overs

Casuals won by 49 runs

The conditions at Wenvoe started off quite cool but developed into a lovely afternoon. Everyone agreed that this particular fixture is now established as one of the favourite games of the season – always played in such a friendly, relaxed way, perfectly reflecting the ethos of the Willow League.Much debate ensued as to how we can cajole more people to be available for not only the weekend fixtures but also the mid-week games – a problem the club has not encountered for 15 years or more!

The Wenvoe pitch was as deceptive as usual – it looked quite dry but it was actually a typical early season, low, slow pudding. The man from Ulster was there to lend his support to the team as always!

Casuals batted first and faced excellent bowling from Adi and the golden arm of Gog. How Adi did not get a wicket is unfathomable – 8 overs, 2 maidens for 9 runs was a superb effort. A fine catch from Jimmy brought a wicket for Gog as the batsman struggled with “the pace off the pudding”. A good partnership developed between Will who scored a well worked 68 and Ollie with a very good 35. Dawko and Glyn did their best to stem the flow of runs and Mike deserved more than the one wicket – at least that’s what he kept telling me throughout the Cavaliers innings. The highlight of the afternoon was a fine spell from Ali who took his first “4 for” with the help of 2 well-judged catches from Adi and JT. After 2 consecutive wickets from Ali the field was set and the tension mounted for the hat-trick only for the ball to sail way down the leg side – the result a dejected Ali. Gareth and Steve did well in finishing the bowling and the 10 Cavaliers managed to restrict the score to 173 for 7. Indeed it was a fine all round fielding performance with excellent support from Matt behind the stumps.

Following a superb spread laid on by Mark and Paul from the Casuals, the Cavaliers innings did not get off to an auspicious start. Our 2 openers were back in the pavilion without troubling the scorers. Jimmy and Matt then built a very good partnership and we were back on track with the run rate. Then the vagaries of the Wenvoe pitch struck with 3 lbw dismissals as a result of the ball barely getting off the ground. Meanwhile Jimmy was compiling a magnificent knock of 77 off 101 deliveries which really held the innings together for the Cavaliers. He was also undone by a ball which “rolled along the ground”. We managed to last out the 40 overs but were well short of the target finishing on 124 for 8. An excellent afternoon’s entertainment thoroughly enjoyed by both teams.

Champagne moment: There was an excellent six hit by Adi but the champagne moment has to go to skipper Jimmy who adapted to the conditions better than most and at least kept us in the game.

Bowling details

Overs Maidens Runs Wickets

Adi 8 2 9 0

Gog 5 0 14 1

Glyn 5 0 23 0

Dawko 8 0 28 1

Jimmy 5 0 36 0

Ali 5 0 24 4

Steve 3 0 22 0

Gareth 1 0 5 0

Batting details

1. Thomas bowled 0 2. Payne bowled 0 3. Thorpe lbw 17 4. Marchant bowled 77 5. Ramagowda caught 6 6. Nash lbw 6 7. Parkhurst lbw 3 8. Dawkins c & b 0 9. Davis not out 0 10. Poulsom not out 1

Extras 12

vs Hurricanes, Friendly, Tue 23rd May, Cathedral School

Hurricanes 99/6 (18 overs), Cavaliers 103/0 13.3 overs

Cavaliers won by ten wickets

A tight performance in the field and a well judged opening partnership from Phil and Matt saw Cavaliers to an easy ten-wicket win against Hurricanes.

On an overcast and muggy evening, stand-in skipper Gareth invited Hurricanes to bat in a game reduced to 18 overs due to the late arrival of some of the opposition.

Dawko and Phil gave very little away in their opening spells, with the batsmen unable to find the boundary and forced to chance their arm with drop-and-run singles. Phil eventually made the breakthrough in the sixth over with the score on 23. Al Fraser and Grizz then entered proceedings, the former bowling with pace but with no luck but the latter struck gold in each of his three overs (thanks in part to two smart catches from Dawko and Payne), and was unlucky not to have a fourth wicket when a top edge looped just out of the reach of Matt, who put in another good performance behind the stumps.

Gog and your correspondent both chipped in with a wicket to leave Hurricanes on a below par 99/6 off their 18 overs, with only Stagg (42 not out) able to get going.

These small run chases have tripped up Cavaliers in the past, but Phil and Matt got us off to a great start – Phil typically pugnacious on the legside and Matt rotating the strike well. Phil retired on 36 off just 19 balls and the game was all but won. Jack continued the good work and Matt played with more freedom to finish on 42 not out as Cavaliers coasted to

victory with 27 balls to spare and a victory that will hopefully set us up well for the cup game against Casuals.

Champagne moment: Phil’s six over long on before strolling off the field.

Batting details

Matt – 42 not out (2×4)

Phil – 36 retired (5×4, 1×6)

Jack – 12 not out

JT, Steve, Grizz, Gareth, Dawko, Al, Ally, Gog – dnb

Bowling details + catches/stumpings

Dawko – 3-0-12-0 (1 catch)

Phil 3-0-10-1

Al – 3-0-15-0

Grizz – 3-0-17-3

Gog – 3-0-20-1

Jack – 2-0-16-0

Ally – 1-0-6-1

Matt – 1x catch

Gareth – 1x catch

Dawko – 1x catch

v Casuals, Cup, 25th May, Wenvoe

Casuals 123 – 5

Cavaliers 124 – 4

Cavaliers won by six wickets I have tried to blank this evening from my memory but with your looming I bit the bullet and here it is. It was a baking hot day and South Wales was basking in a mini heat wave. It appeared our hosts still had a number of players missing due to heavy traffic and people flocking to Barry island for an ice cream!! Their skipper wasn’t present so they tossed with out him! We won and as they were short on numbers elected to field 1st (I think!!). The casuals openers started steady before Fraser and Parry struck in the 4th and 5th overs. Will for the casuals batted well before retiring on 30. Fraser was bowling well and disturbed the stumps twice more in his spell

with Mcviegh also getting in on the act and getting the ball through to knock off the bails. I think it was the 12th over when Jimmy tossed the me the cherry. It turned out to be a horror over from myself in which I went for 26!!! Sorry skip i returned to the boundary head down and never to bowl again this season lol hence so long in writing this report was 6 balls I want to forget! Even after my over we restricted the casuals to 123 off there 18 overs. Our reply got off to a steady start losing a couple of early wickets we were 46-2 off 7. Thorpe and Marchant batted well both scoring 28 no. The next 3 overs we rattled up 30 and it was Mcviegh who hobbled to the crease to club a quick 15 with two big sixes to see us home with 3 overs to spare!! I was off the hook!!! We retreated to the Wenvoe arms for a beer or two to quench our thirsts on a lovely evening for cricket.

vs Medics, Willow League, 30th May, Cathedral School

Medics 124ao (19.4 overs)

Cavaliers 93-8 (20 overs)

Medics won by 31 runs

At 6pm on a muggy, humid 30th of May. For the first time in what seems like a life time, both teams were ready in their whites for the start of the game. I think this may be the first game I have played all year, which has started on time!

The Medics won the toss and decided to bat. The innings stated off at a steady pace with tight bowling from Gravy and Phil. And after the first 5 overs the medics were 29-0. Jimmy then decided that pace was the way to go on this deck and brought on Adi who was arguably the quickest of the Cavaliers bowlers on show. The first wicket fell in the final ball of the 7th over with Gravy getting a well deserved wicket, bowling Solly for 19. Gravy had bowled through with his 4 overs costing him 29 runs. He was unlucky having had several balls loop off the bat into gaps. Inspired by the wicket, it only took Adi 4 balls to make the second breakthrough, bowling Callum for 22. This was good bowling as the batsman tried to hoik a straight ball having played and missed at 3 previous balls. The next batsman, Rhys, came to the wicket playing all manor of shots. Unfortunately for him, he should have waited until he’d got to the crease as he was bowled through the gate first ball. This meant that the Cavs had taken 3 wickets for 0 off 6 balls. The hat-trick ball was a good one from Adi but the new batsman, Chai got behind it and defended it to mid-on, giving Adi a double wicket maiden that had got us back in the game.

Al then took over from where Gravy had left off with a tight bowling performance. The good cricket then continued with regular wickets being taken, 2 by Al (Bowled and Caught Behind), including a double wicket maiden. And a run-out by Mike, who did everything he could to fumble the ball before throwing it for a direct hit. This carried on until the 19th over where Phil, who had replaced Al (4-1-21-2), decided to toss the second ball of his over up a little. The batsman saw this and clubbed him down the ground to the right of long-on. Before I tell you what happened, I should tell you that Gravy has started playing in light enhancing goggles which he talks about like they give him magical powers, and after what happened, they probably do. As soon as the ball was struck Gravy, who was at long-on started sprinting to his right reaching out with one hand, and to his and everybody’s surprise, it stuck. Gravy then pulled off his goggles and waved them above his head as the whole team, and out batsman, ran to and congratulated him. It reminded me of a Ben Stokes catch from a T20 against South Africa, though arguably this was better because though they are both capable all-rounders, one is a few years older than the other, wearing light enhancing goggles and not an international cricketer! It was something that should have been in a much higher form of cricket. The next ball though

was, for everybody else, probably more entertaining though, as the batsman patted it down to Gravy, who hot off that outrageous piece of fielding, decided to let it through his legs for 4. The last over, bowled by Mike, took the last 3 wickets, mike got 2 in a row (stumped and bowled) before Steve, who did an excellent job behind the stumps, ran the last batsman out 2 balls short of their 20 overs. The bowling from the Cavs was on the whole tight and our fielding was a high standard, especially considering that we were missing a few key players.

Our batting got off to a slow start with the Medic bowlers being bang on the money from the first ball. And before we knew it we were 16 for 3 after 7 overs (Phil, JT and Jack the men out). Jimmy and Gravy then got together, blocked the straight ones and punished the bad balls in a good partnership of 20 before Gravy went for a suicidal single, was sent back by Jimmy and run out by 3 meters. This brought Adi to the crease and he continued the good work in a partnership of 19 before Jimmy nicked a good ball to the keeper. Adi carried on crunching the ball through the covers before he was caught off the bowling of Rhys for 23. Mike hit 2 nice 4’s on the legside in a quick made 10 before the pressure of the over rate got the better of him and he was caught in the deep. Al was likewise caught trying to go big at mid-off, before Ali and Steve batted out the rest of the game with the Cavs ending on 93-8. This is disappointing as we should have beaten the medics. The total wasn’t a massive one but due to a combination of poor shots and very tight bowling. On the plus side, our bowling was also very good and our fielding was outstanding with several runs being saved on a regular basis. This game through will always be remembered for ‘that catch’ from Gravy

Champagne moment: Gravy’s miracle catch

Man of the Match: Chai (their opening bowler) 4-3-2-0 and 39

Bowling:

Gravy 4 – 0 – 29 – 1

Phil 4 – 0 – 27 – 1

Adi 4 – 1 – 20 – 2

Al 4 – 1 – 21 – 2

Jimmy 2 – 0 – 17 – 0

Mike 1.4 – 0 – 7 – 2

Batting Stats: fours/sixes

Phil 2 0/0

JT 7 1/0

Jimmy 16 3/0

Jack 1 0/0

Gravy 10 1/0

Adi 23 2/0

Mike 10 2/0

Al 6 0/0

Steve 4 0/0

Ali 6 1/0

Gog Did Not Bat

vs Eclipse, Willow League, Thu 15th June, St Fagans

Eclipse 190-3

Cavs 130-8

Eclipse win by 60 runs

In many ways, the less said about this one the better. But I suppose that would be shirking my match reporting responsibilities so here goes…

We lost the toss and went out to field. Gravy and Phil opened the bowling and started well with Gravy dismissing one of the openers in the third over. This didn’t turn out to be the smartest move however as it turned out their no. 3 could play a bit and they quickly accelerated the scoring rate.

Jase and Jim came on for the first change. Some good deliveries would keep the batsmen quiet for a time but they were very quick to punish anything wayward and the boundaries started to flow. Jim did eventually dismiss the free scoring opposition no.3 with a smart piece of work from David behind the stumps to complete a stumping and Twaitsy picked up a wicket with a fine yorker.

Nevertheless, the scoring rate didn’t let up as new batsmen came in and Eclipse accelerated away to finish with 190 from their 20 overs.

Phil and Matt went out to open the batting for the Cavs. Phil enjoyed tucking into the slow opening bowler hitting a quick succession of boundaries before taking on one to many and being caught for a quickfire 18. Jim and Matt then shared a useful partnership and were keeping up with the required rate until Matt missed a straight one.

Glenn went in at 4 and on the eve of his testimonial looked to be in good touch before he was unlucky to be dismissed by a magnificent one handed catch on the boundary when the ball looked destined to go for 6. As ever the skipper Jim made a fine contribution, but after he was dismissed for 39, the bowlers began to get on top and turn the screws.

Wickets fell at regular intervals and having manged 85 runs in the first 10 overs, the Cavaliers only managed to add another 45 to this in the second half of the innings, finishing on 130 – 8. Dawko made a solid contribution with the bat down the order scoring 14 not out including an excellent 6.

Champagne moment: The catch to dismiss Glenn was spectacular! But it should go to one of our own, the combination of Jim and David completing the stumping to dismiss their best batsman.

Batting details Phil 18 2×6 1×4 Matt 18 2×4 Jim 39 1×6 5×4 Glenn 14 2×4 Gravy 3 Jase 3 Twaitsy 4 Ali 6 1×4 Dawko 14no 1×6 1×4 Gog 1no David DNB

Bowling details + catches/stumpings Gravy 4-0-23-1 Phil 4-0-36-0 Jase 3-0-35-0 Jim 4-0-35-1 Dawko 2-0-25-0 Twaitsy 3-0-33-1

Glenn Chapman Testimonial, Cathedral School, Friday 16th June

Towie Titans 92/3 (16 overs) Moonface Mavericks 93/2 (14.4 overs)

Moonface Mavericks won by eight wickets.

On a glorious Friday evening, Cavaliers from near and far assembled at Cathedral School to pay tribute to our loyal and long-standing club secretary Glenn. The enthusiastic response to the all-points-bulletin requesting ice to cool the gallons of beer and wine already being consumed by five-thirty was a sign of priorities, on a night where the cricket was of an even more light-hearted nature than usual.

Cavaliers welcomed back Brownie, Bill and JD and were joined by the first time by Trubs, an old pal of Jason and Glenn’s, playing his first game in twenty years. By 6.15 enough of us were gathered for a ten-a-side match over 16 overs.

Jason’s XI took first knock and Adi and Bill got things off to a quick start, a loose opening over by JD seeing both batsmen hitting boundaries. Thereafter things slowed a little, Glyn’s accurate spin tying down Bill (having his first knock in about a year) and JD making

a good comeback with a maiden. Things picked up with the introduction of Jack into the attack, eschewing his usual off-spin for a genuinely brisk spell of swing bowling which flew even faster off Adi’s bat, as the good doctor retired for a quick 25.

JT kept up the momentum before Bill fell LBW to Brownie. Your correspondent struggled to beat the infield and after the dismissal of JT via a looping full toss from Jim (experimenting with legspin), the run-rate dwindled with Dawko unable to repeat the clean hitting of the previous night. Despite the Gog clubbing a 3 to cow off the last ball, Jason’s XI finished on a rather lacklustre 92/3.

During the interval, we were treated to a summary of Glenn’s time with the Cavaliers, including a formidable barrage of statistics compiled by the sadly absent Steaders and many glasses were raised to long-suffering club secretary for the huge amount of work he puts in over the year to keep the show on the road.

With only 93 to chase, JD (wearing your correspondent’s box which has since been washed in carbolic acid) and the in-form Matt wasted no time tucking into Dawko and the Gog’s offerings before JD fell for 9, bowled by Duffy. Your correspondent picked up the wicket of Trubshaw for 0, bringing together Glyn and Brownie, playing his first match since an unfortunate last-ball injury at Llanvapley almost a year ago. While Glyn kept things ticking with some typically sensible batting, Brownie played every shot in the book, including the reverse sweep, before finding his timing and the boundary to take the Mavericks within touching distance. Glyn took a well-earned break to allow Jack the honour of hitting the winning runs.

The sideshow to the main proceedings was the bowl-off between the otherwise non-playing walking wounded and it was a surprise defeat for McVeigh by the one-armed Payney who allowed only a single off a tidy over of medium pace and even got it to swing a little. The fact it was your correspondent facing may have taken a little of the gloss off, I concede.

After disposing of the excess ice on the outfield, Cavaliers repaired to the Cameo for yet more beer and a sumptuous buffet.

Champagne moment: Pretty much all of Brownie’s innings but in particularly hitting your correspondent back over his head for four.

Batting details

Towie Titans

Adi – 25 ret 4×4

Bill – 16 3×4

JT – 19 2×4

Ally – 11*

Dawko 5

Gog – 5*

Extras 12

JD 0/10

Glyn 0/13

Jack – 0/19

Brownie 1/13

Trubshaw – 0/14

Jimmy – 1/11

Chapman 1/4

Payne 0/1

Total 92/3 (16 overs)

Moonface Mavericks

Matt – 28 ret 4×4

JD – 9 2×4

Trubshaw – 0

Brownie – 18* 1×4

Glyn 17 ret 3×4

Jack 5* 1×4

Extras 15

Gog 0/16

Dawko 0/6

McVeigh 0/23

Jase 1/2

Ally – 1/14

JT 0/4

Bill – 0/10

Adi – 0/12

Total – 93/2 14.3 overs

vs Ide cricket club, Friendly, 23rd June, Cathedral School

Cavaliers 93 for 4

Ide 78 for 5

Cavaliers won by 15 runs

Ide had made the long train journey from Exeter arriving at their hotel in Riverside 5pm before making a quick turn around to get to Cathedral School for 6pm. It didn’t take long to see that the touring party were a happy bunch and a alcohol fuelled train journey obviously added to their joyous spirits. It’s what being on tour is all about. One of the touring party even commented on the venue likening it Lords as they staggered across the field, “f*%# me boys we’re playing at Lords.” The cavaliers were happy to play hosts to this and behind the welcoming smile, I’m sure there were a few thoughts of “we can’t lose this game!”

So, the game got underway with no toss (as I’m told it is customary and in touring tradition, the hosts bat first)? This was a good idea as it gave Ide the opportunity let the alcohol ware off. Duffy & Parkhurst went out to open the batting. Ide surprisingly didn’t live up to the initial impressions given as Duffy and Parkhurst were held back by some straight bowling from the opening pair of Skinner and Lawes. Duffy did manage to hit a four back over the bowlers head before he was bowled for 12 runs in the 5th over with the score on 20. A mention has to be given to the next batsman in to join Parkhurst as it was a pleasure to see Andrew Steadman back from the wilderness for his first innings of the season. That partnership didn’t last long though as Parkhurst skied one and was ct with the score on 25. D. Davies went into bat but was run out having faced three balls. The score was now 30 for 3 with 6 overs gone. Up next was J. Parry to bat and a change in the attack with Jordan and Ash. Steaders and Parry were slowly pushing the score on with singles and the occasional 2 until Parry lofted one to mid off ct for 4 off the bowling of Irvine. The skipper J. Marchant was up next joined by a light drizzle. Steadman back in his old form was retired on 25 having played a steady innings. It was like he’d never been away. Adi up next and the light drizzle began to get a little heavier. Adi and Marchant kept the score ticking over and were able to push the the Cavaliers total to 93 with a partnership of 28.

A quick turnaround and the cavaliers were out in the field. Gog and Poulson opened the bowling for the Cavaliers and both bowled very well reducing the batsmen to the odd single. Between them they went for3 runs from four overs. Parry came on to replace the Gog and managed to take the first wicket from his third ball with Parkhurst holding on to his catch. The fielding was very good tonight. Steadman showing no ring rust in the field showed his agility with a fantastic pick up and throw at the stumps while on the move. Ide seemed to have woken up but their batsmen couldn’t really get going and could only take the odd singles here and there due to the bowling and a much better fielding performance from the cavaliers. The biggest cheer of the evening came off the bowling of Adi when he clean bowled the Ide skipper. The tourists were really pleased with this wicket and cheers would have been fitting in any stadium. To say they were pleased would be an understatement. Ide continued to push singles to get to the target but needed 25 off the last over. This was a little too much with a pudding of a ball and with

very few boundaries being hit throughout the game. It was a great effort from the Ide batsmen but on this occasion the cavaliers were worthy winners with Ide making 78 from their 18 overs with the loss of 5 wickets.

It was a great evening and Ide were very entertaining with great support. This continued after the game to the Butchers for a few drinks.

Batting Score 4’s/6’s

J. Duffy 12 (1 – 4)

A Parkhurst 7 (1-4)

A Steadman 25 rtd (2-4)

D Davies 1

J Parry 4

J Marchant 16 NO

Adi 7 NO

M Dawkins DNB

S Davies DNB

G Poulson DNB

G Chapman DNB

Bowling O M R W

S Davies 2 1 2 0

G Poulson 2 1 1 0

J Parry 2 0 11 2

A Parkhurst 2 0 4 0

G Chapman 2 0 5 1

M Dawkins 2 0 12 0

A Ramegowda 2 0 7 1

J Marchant 2 0 14 1

J Duffy 2 0 13 0

Catches

Jimmy 1

Parkhurst 1

Vs Celtic Hawks, League, Tuesday 27th June 2017, Cathedral School

Celtic Hawks 195/6 Cavaliers 131/7 Lost by 64 runs

Let’s keep this concise. We won the toss and elected to field.

Bowen delivered a Pyrrhic victory with an early wicket. Enter Carl Whitely at number 3, a Premier League skipper currently top of Miskin Manor’s first XI batting averages. He could bat.

Further wickets were to be taken by Bowen, Davies, Fraser, and Graveson. This hastened the arrival of Patel at number 6. He could bat.

Whitely’s straightforward technique and power were (with hindsight) a pleasure to watch. He scored 116 from 52 balls. Your author cannot recollect seeing a better innings played in this league. Patel scored 52 from 34 balls, generating surprising hitting power with his wristy technique.

Celtic Hawks finished up with 195, the Cavaliers bowlers with bruised egos.

Andrew Steadman can bat. He scored an excellent 54; the bedrock of our innings. His teammates batted around him a bit, taking our total in reply to 131.

Summary: Two excellent batting performances took the game away from us. The Celtic Hawks (new to our league) seemed a good bunch of blokes.

Champagne Moment

Outstanding scorebook performance by Michael McVeigh. Stylish, neat, complete, gifting analytical bonus balls (“Terry runs out opener”).

Bowling (Overs/Maidens/Runs/Wickets)

Graveson: 4/1/17/1 Bowen: 3/0/26/2 Davies: 3/0/30/1 Fraser: 3/0/43/1 Marchant: 4/0/39/0 Duffy: 3/0/38/0

Batting Davies: 6 Steadman: 54 Thorpe: 3 Marchant: 8 Chapman: 13 Graveson: 5 Parry: 14 Fraser: 2 no Twaits: 0 no

vs WAG Housing friendly, 29th June 2017, Cathedral School

Cavaliers 92/8 (20 overs)

WAG Housing 93/1 (13.3 overs)

WAG Housing win by 9 wickets

Short and Sweet the opposite of disposable BBQ’S!!!

Well a mixture of youngsters (well 3 youngsters) and older stalwarts of the Cardiff Cavaliers gathered in the dark gloom of the Cathedral ground. A chatter of when can we start cooking was heard throughout the Cavaliers very laboured batting display, eventually allowing Jimmy and McVeigh (Irish BBQ champion) whom had waited for over 2 hours for their burgers to eventually taste the joys of their hard labour with groans of ecstasy (victory for the meat eaters).

The Cav’s batting didn’t really get going and all started with the fall of Matt whom went without struggling the scorers. Jimmy made a start, which included a great cut shot for 4, although holed out by being caught in the covers. With JT soldering on, he picked up the pace and hit some valuable 4’s with some great shots for the Cavs until having to retire for a well fought 50, it was a shame that no one could support JT, and with the lower order not really troubling the WAG Bowlers the Cavs could only post 92 of their 20 overs.

WAG got down to there innings and the only wicket taken came from the team of Gog and Dave with a smart stumping by the latter and things looked up as WAG were 12-1. Unfortunately, they scored freely of the Cavs bowling; although WAG didn’t hit many boundaries, Cavs dropped two catches during the WAG innings there and they ran well between the wickets & they hit the winning runs with 6.3 overs remaining.

There was no dressing up this result and even though the match was played in good spirits by both sides it was obvious that the Cavs were disappointed with the result.

Champagne moment: JT 50 (a run a ball 50 – think this correct!) special mention for McVeigh and Jimmy’s excellent effort and commitment and not given up on the cooking of their burgers.

Batting details

m. Thorpe – 0

j. Thomas – 50 retired 6×4

m.twaits – 9 1×4

j. marchant – 17 2×4

j. parri – 0

S. nash – 2

A. parkhurst- 0

g.brown- 0

S. Davies- 3

d. davies – 3 not out

g. poulsom – 2 not out

Bowling details

s.davies – 3-0- 16-1

g. poulsom – 2-0- 12-0

g. brown – 2-0- 22-0

j. parri- 1-0- 13-0

j. marchant- 2-0- 14-0

a. parkhurst- 2.3-0- 13-0

m. twaits- 1-0- 4-0

D. davies – 1 stumping

vs Casuals– Willow League, Tues 4th July 2017, Cathedral School

Cavaliers (149-5)

Cardiff Casuals (128-9)

Cavaliers won by 21 runs

Having gone through the 2017 Willow season without a league win, it was imperative that we played well against our old rivals the Casuals to avoid the possibility of a winless campaign.

Jim lost the toss but we were put in to bat, which after a couple of failed run chases in previous weeks proved to be a blessing in disguise. The outfield at Cathedral School was as massive and as quick as ever, but the Casuals bowled extremely tightly and there was only 13 on the board when we lost our first wicket, Phil being caught behind for 8 to a good diving catch by the large but very able keeper.

JT (11) joined Steaders and struck a couple of nice drives for 4 to help move things on a bit, but fell to a sharp stumping from their keeper, leaving us 26-2 off 7. Jim was next in for what proved to be a match winning knock, although again the bowling remained tight and by the time Steaders departed for a watchful 20 in the 14th over, we were a little behind the rate on 64-3.

It has been mentioned in previous reports but it has been great to welcome Andrew back at this stage of the season – we have missed his temperament and technique at the top of the innings and his speed and skill in the field. Although he may have been frustrated

at being bogged down during his innings, it proved vital that he saw off the tight early bowling and allowed the batsmen that followed him to take advantage when the bowling changed and inevitably got looser.

Glenn (18) joined Jimmy and they were able to take advantage of a few more bad balls to add 60 for the next wicket, a partnership that benefited from one particularly generous over that went for 26! Gravy (3) replaced Glenn and avoided the ignominy of a third consecutive golden duck before Matt (2*) finished the innings off with Jim, who was unbeaten on 63, a real captain’s knock, which included seven boundaries, some sharp running and one particularly brutal clubbed drive which forced the Willow League Chairman to A&E for an x-ray on a heavily swollen forearm.

We finished on 149 for 5 which was probably 20 runs over par given the accuracy of the Casuals early bowling.

Although our arch nemesis Kim wasn’t playing for the opposition, we knew that we would have to field well and bowl tightly to defend this total and Gravy really set the tone with a wicket in the first over, bowling the opener with a beauty. His spell of 1 – 11 from 4 overs, in combination with the wily tweakers of the perma-tanned Grizz (0-25) at the other end meant that Casuals did not get the flying start that they would have hoped for.

Jack (0-30) & Jason (1-26) were next up and continued to bowl tightly, offering very few bad balls for the Casuals to punish, although we were struggling to take wickets and it wasn’t until the 15th over, with the Casuals on 95 and still very much in the game, that Jason got the breakthrough he deserved, having their dangerous number 3 well caught behind by Matt for 42.

Although they weren’t hitting regular boundaries, the Casuals were still running hard and it took a tight spell from Jim (2-15) to stem the flow and pick up the next 2 wickets, assisted by catches from Steaders and Jason.

Phil (0-11) and Glenn (0-9) chipped in with an over each but it was some kamikaze running in the desperate search for runs that led to the Casuals downfall as 4 run outs reduced them to 129-8 at the end of their 20 overs (although their book shows 132-8).

We fielded well, with only a couple of difficult catches going down, but the bowling was as good as I have seen it all season, with only nine extras being conceded and no sign of the raft of bad balls that has allowed opponents in previous league fixtures to rack up formidable totals. Special mention to Steve, who didn’t get to bat but looked sharp and solid in the field.

It felt good to get our first league win on the board and the Stowford certainly tasted a lot sweeter for it as we adjourned to the Butchers.

One little gripe now that I have a platform to express it – our standards have slipped when it comes to both clapping in the incoming batsmen and when clapping in the fielding team at the close of an innings. It may just be deemed as stuffy etiquette but I think it shows respect for our opposition and reflects quite poorly on us so let’s get our standards back up to where they should be please Cavaliers.

Champagne moment – nothing absolutely stand out, although Jim struck some fine looking boundaries it was an overall strong team performance that brought is this victory.

Batting

Phil 8 (1×4)

Steaders 20 (2×4)

JT 11 (2×4)

Jimmy 63 not out (7×4)

Glenn 18 (2×4)

Gravy 3

Matt 2 not out

Grizz DNB

Steve N DNB

Jack DNB

Jason DNB

Bowling

Gravy 4 0 11 1

Grizz 3 0 25 0

Jack 4 0 30 0

Jason 4 0 26 1

Jim 3 0 15 2

Phil 1 0 11 0

Glenn 1 0 9 0

Catches

Matt

Jason

Steaders

vs Celtic Hawks, Willow League Plate , 13th July, Cathedral School,

Hawks 136/6

Cavaliers 136/6

Tied

After suffering a heavy defeat to the Hawks and their “new player” a few weeks back, the Cavaliers were looking to take some revenge in the 1st plate match. With a few players making themselves available for the game we managed to get 11 players for this fixture. Massive thanks to Kieran for shifting some stuff around so he could help and also once again to Mike for stepping in so we don’t go short.

Onto the action – I lost the toss which worked out anyway as they wanted to bat and I felt we could chase down a total. Gravy started things off and managed to get some lift to the tidy cricketer that is Ash. I don’t think the other opener fancied facing Gravy on that firm track as he shuffled away from his stumps on a few occasions before Gravy found the stumps and sent him on his way for a duck. This brought Williams to the crease, who on his last outing scored a huge ton. With Mike bowling from the other end the partnership of Ash & Williams was fairly subdued compared to last time, the batsmen were only required to put the bad ball away and watch it race to fence on superb outfield. I have not seen the ground look as in good as nick as it is at the moment.

Ash & Williams both retired at 30 with Gravy & Mike bowling good spells at 2 decent players.

The change saw Kieran and myself into the bowling attack at the Hawks new batsmen who swinging the bat hard and pushing runs in the field. At the end of the 8th over the score was 74 and having seen the back of the best players the game plan was to contain, try not to take many more wickets so the retired batsmen could not return to the crease.

The next change in bowling was Phil & Grizz who both did a great job in slowing the run rate down; the bad balls were fewer putting more pressure on the batsmen. After Phil was hit over his head for 4 he decided that he didn’t like it and cleaned bowled the no.4 batsmen for 28. By now the rate decreased massively and we had bowled ourselves back into the game. With the “don’t get any more out” plan working well Grizz decided that this wasn’t for him and bowled 2 batsmen and had one caught by Kieran at mid-wicket…..immediately regretting his decision to pouch it with shouts from his team mates. The innings fizzled out with Grizz earning 3 for 19 in a really good spell and Phil 2 for 18. By this point we had lost the Gog to a thigh injury after chasing one too many and pulled in another long chase to boundary. The previous over he’d had to chase 3 in a row at fine leg and all that running took its toll on his short strides. Luckily Glenn’s nephew who was down on work experience with him stepped onto the field so we didn’t go short.

All in all 136 was decent total to contain them too and on lighting fast outfield I felt we put in a decent bowling and fielding performance.

We started our chase with Phil & Kieran opening up and orders were for the top order to get to 30 and back in the hutch. Kieran showed what a loss he’s been to us this season by reaching his 30 in 17 balls, including 2 sixes of Ash. He gave us a real platform to chase down 137. Phil was playing more subdued innings by his standards and looking to anchor things and give us some stability. By the time I joined Phil and departed the score after 9 overs 67 and we were well in the game.

Phil was eventually bowled for 14 in a patient but needed innings in the circumstances. Glenn & Gravy were now at the crease and looking to get us as close to home as

possible. Gravy has found himself in the runs of late and this continued as he cleared the ropes on multiple occasions with some big blows. The 13th over off Williams went for 15 with some lovely drives including a straight 6 which sailed over the long off fielder despite shouts of “catch it” from the despairing bowler. A moment of controversy followed when Glenn drove at the ball, there was a noise and the keeper caught it. There was confident appeal as you’d expect from the opposition. Now Glenn is an honest as cricketer you’ll come across and always walks if he’s hit it. I wasn’t sure but after a little discussion with Gravy (yes the other batsmen) felt that he had nicked and gave him out. Something that we pride ourselves on is our honesty and our integrity can never be questioned. I thank Glenn for walking off without any fuss, a mark of his character and his calmness.

Gravy retired on 35 after a fine knock with another 6 over mid-wicket, he’d done his part in getting us back up with rate. After the 16th over the score was 130 and we only required 7 to win….the game was ours to lose.

Mike came to the crease and had to face the leggies of Ash, possibly the worst kind considering his lack of mobility. He was stumped for 1.

I must single out Mike for his commitment to the club, every time I’ve asked him to play as we need him he has. He’s always stuck his hand up to help us despite the obvious discomfort he’s suffering with. It’s a real shame that such a talented cricketer is unable to perform to his very high standards due to his current injury. I for one cannot wait to see him all fixed up over the winter and raring to go next season.

Steve had now joined Grizz and we needed 7 off the last 2 overs, still ours to lose……Grizz was caught behind for 5 and only 2 came off the 17th over. 5 needed off the last over which was bowled by the leggie, Ali was next in with Steve, they both ran hard, hit the ball well but only to pick out the field. The scores were tired with one ball remaining…..the field were now in very tight and Ali swung hard hitting the ball towards mid-wicket, unfortunately he didn’t quite get enough on it and wasn’t able to make his ground and was run out and the game ended in a tie.

I cannot lie about the result as it was massively disappointing to not get over the line seeing as we had got so close, it was a game I really wanted us to win. We can be proud of how we competed, despite age not being on our side and playing against a team full of much younger players we put in a good performance. Games like this are won and lost on fine margins. Once again how we conducted ourselves impeccably. I thank you all for your efforts.

Batting details

P Davies 14

K Ghandi ret 30

J Marchant 8

G Chapman 15

A Graveson ret 35

M McVeigh 1

N Adams 5

S Nash n.o 3

A Parkhurst 4

Bowling details + catches/stumpings

A Graveson 3-0-25-1

M Mcveigh 3-0-29-0

K Ghandi 3-0-22-0 (1 catch)

J Marchant 3-0-22-0

P Davies 3-0-18-2

N Adams 3-0-19-3

vs Eclipse, Willow League Plate, 18th July, Cathedral School

Eclipse 104/7

Cavaliers 105/2

Cavaliers win by 8 wickets

Weather

Humid 27 degrees. Potential for thunderstorms.

New Players

Thanks to a one-man recruitment drive from Matt, we were pleased to welcome 2 new players. The first of 2017. Haroon & Shah.

Toss

Jimmy won and elected to field.

First Innings

Andrew (3-0-19-0) and Ross (3-0-20-1) were given the new ball. They both bowled well. Andrew generated some good lift and pace with some deliveries. Ross trapped the

opener Richardson LBW in his second over. Mike Williams the opener put the odd ball away to boundary to keep a good scoring rate. He later retired when he reached 30. Such is the nature of the plate that if a man is in form, it won’t be a one-sided game. After 6 overs Eclipse were 42/1.

Second change was Duffy (3-0-16-0) from the top end and Jim (3-0-12-0) from the bottom. The runs started to slow up aided by Mike the Eclipse opener retiring and a fantastic run out by debutant Haroon. The ball was hit hard in the cover region, Haroon made a one-handed stop and in the same motion threw the ball at the stumps and made a clean hit. This was the second time he had made a direct hit, but the batsman hadn’t made his ground this time. A real momentum shift for the Cavaliers. It makes such a difference to the game with a strong fielding performance. After 12 overs Eclipse were 72-2.

The third bowling change was the debutants Haroon (3-1-8-2) and Shah (2-0-13-0). Haroon bowling from the top end and Shah the other. Both bowled well, Haroon in particular who took 2 debut wickets. One clean bowled and the other caught by Steaders taking a thick glove behind the stumps. Scoring had now slowed right down, including another run out by Duffy/Steaders. Phil Davies (1-0-8-2) bowled the final over. He took 2 wickets in 2 balls, including a catch by Steve Nash at mid-off, and a fantastic catch by Haroon. The ball was hit hard to Haroon, who was fielding close in.

Eclipse finished on 104, with 22 extras.

Second Innings

Steadman (27 not out) & Phil (19) opened up the batting. They immediately got a good partnership going and put us ahead of the rate from over 1. This was done by taking regular singles to third man and putting the bad ball away. Phil was eventually bowled for 19. Our inform skipper Jim (23) joined Steaders and put his first ball away for 4. The chase continued in a controlled and calm manner with little alarm. Jim was eventually run out for 23. Batting at 4 was Glenn (25 not out), who scored his runs in just 15 balls. Finishing the innings with a big straight 6 back over the bowler’s head. A very solid and controlled chase by the 4 cavalier batsmen involved.

Summary

Great to be able to call up 2 new players, with great potential. We look forward to seeing them bat. Welcome to the club Haroon & Shah. A good win on a warm evening at the height of the summer, on a lovely looking ground.

Champagne Moment

Both by the debutant Haroon. A sharp a run out as you have ever seen and a reaction catch close in.

Bowler Overs Maidens Runs Wickets A Graveson 3 0 19 0 R Bowen 3 0 20 1 J Duffy 3 0 16 0 J Marchant 3 0 12 0 Haroon 3 1 8 2 Shah 2 0 13 0 P Davies 1 0 8 2

Batsman How Out Bowler Runs A Steadman Not Out 27 P Davies Bowled Hughes 19 J Marchant Run Out 23 G Chapman Not Out 25 A Graveson DNB J Duffy DNB S Khan DNB H Arbab DNB J Thomas DNB S Nash DNB R Bowen DNB Extras 11 Run outs

Catches

Duffy Nash Haroon Haroon Steadman

Whitchurch Heath, Friendly, Cathedral School, 20th July

Whitchurch 149/2

Cavaliers 132/9

Whitchurch Heath won by 17 runs

As I forgot to assign a match report for the game this shall be a fairly brief report.

It was a pleasant evening for a friendly game off cricket in a return match against Whitchurch Heath; we had a close game with them earlier on the season played in a good spirit. This game was different. Hard to describe, there was nothing personal or over the top; it just seemed there was a lack of respect shown to us as players and a team. There was a lack of clapping batsmen in and a few incidents that left a sour taste.

We had 2 new players making their debuts – welcome Arbab and Dave Goode.

I lost the toss to and they decided to bat, their 2 openers were competent…although possibly in their minds they felt they’re a lot better. The bowling display was fine, no one got battered. We dropped a couple of catches when both batsmen were on about 30ish, one by Dawko in the slips (off Haroon) who was desperate to field in the position! Also the previous ball Ali had put down the Claire Balding lookalike (credit to McVeigh for that one), however just as Ali was preparing to take the catch there was a completely unnecessary & ridiculous loud shout of “yeeeessssss” from the batsmen. My personal view (not the club) is that this was a blatant attempt to put the fielder off. This was repeated a few overs later (same batsmen) when Dwako went for a caught & bowled chance. This for me has no place on the field.

Moving on they both retired, Shah picked up his first wicket with the help of a good catch in the deep from Arbab. There was a run out and they finished on 149.

Our chase didn’t start well as JT fell early on. I didn’t last long either and fell cheaply; meanwhile Shah was showing what good asset he could be for the club with a fine innings. He clearly loves to give the ball a whack, he hit seven 4s and two 6s in his innings of 53 retires off 34 balls. Dave Goode on debut unfortunately fell for a duck as did Haroon who hit a four but stood on his wickets in the process (first time I’ve seen that). Phil made a useful 22 and got involved with some verbals with Claire Balding. Balding proceeded to embarrass himself by changing from right arm over to left arm over bowling 3 straight wides! Arbab chipped in with 21 and showed he will also be a useful acquisition for the club.

Another “incident” occurred when Grizz had got to the crease, taken guard and was ready when 2 of the opposition players were having an arm wrestle on the square with the rest watching on….quite unbelievable. Grizz fell for 2, Dwako a blob and Dave D and Ali not out. Our innings came to a close and we had lost by 17. Not a bad effort really.

Hey, maybe I’m being a bit over the top with my reaction to a few things and the frustrations off a tough season have come through on this report. As mentioned there was nothing over the top during the game and maybe the opposition were just having fun and I’m too miserable to see it but I’ve always believed that cricket has some fundamental etiquette rules that are part of the tradition of the game and should be carried on. Anyway enough moaning, let’s move on and give the benefit of doubt…

Batting details

J Thomas 0

Shah retired 53

J Marchant 6

D Goode 0

Haroon 0

P Davies 22

Arbab 21

N Adams 2

M Dawkins 0

A Parkhurst n.o.2

D Davies n.o.1

Bowling details + catches/stumpings

Haroon 3-0-0-20

N Adams 3-0-0-0

P Davies 2-0-0-16

Arbab 3-0-0-20

A Parkhurst 3-0-0-24

M Dawkins 2-0-0-23

J Marchant 2-0-0-17

Shah 2-0-1-11

vs Medics, Willow League Plate, 25 July 2017, Cathedral School

Medics 143 for 8

Cavaliers 120 for 3

Medics win by 23 runs

So, the Cavaliers’ Willow League season ends, not with a bang but with a…………………..I’m not really sure. Probably a shrug of the shoulders and a gentle sigh of disappointment.

Our final fixture in the Willow League Plate competition had an “end of term” feel to it with neither team showing any real enthusiasm to get the game under way. Neither side had a full complement of players ready for the 6 o’clock start but the Medics skipper was lucky enough to win the toss and elect to bat, clearly hoping to survive the first few overs while reinforcements arrived. The Cavaliers took to the field with 10 men with the ever game Mike McVeigh helping us out while we waited for Shah and Haroon who had been delayed in work.

The match eventually got under way and it’s fair to say that the Medics team had a very different look to the one we had played against earlier in the season. Not as young, but

clearly containing a number of players who knew how to hold a bat or bowl a decent over. They made a steady start with opener Leach looking particularly comfortable against Gravy and Jimmy. Gravy trapped the other opener leg before in the third over and a smart run out by Jimmy in the fourth left the Medics on 28 for 2. This brought Shri to the wicket and, as he had done for Cwm Taff against us earlier in the season, he played some lovely shots, keeping Leach company until the opener retired on 30. Shri then pushed on until his own retirement when his score had reached 33.

The Cavaliers bowled reasonably well but no one, with the exception of Haroon (3 overs, 1 for 9), was able to stop the flow of runs. By the half way stage the Medics had scored 71 for 3 and they managed to maintain this scoring rate for the rest of their innings. Our fielding was a bit laboured at times, especially when chasing balls towards the huge boundary on the cathedral side of the ground, exposing our lack of pace in the field once again!

It was a nice change to see us taking our catches – one each for David D and David G off Glenn in his first over, and another by Shah off Haroon’s bowling – but the highlight was David D’s excellent stumping from a leg-side wide in Shah’s last over. A brilliant way to end the innings but we couldn’t help thinking that the Medics had been allowed to score a few too many. What was a par score? Nobody was able to say but an asking rate of 8 an over was do-able, wasn’t it?

Steaders opened the Cavaliers’ innings with Shah and it became apparent very quickly that the Medics had some tidy bowlers in their midst. The first over was a very good maiden bowled with pace and accuracy and Steaders did well to protect his stumps. Shah continued his good form with the bat and you have to say that when he hits a ball, it stays hit!! Three fours and two massive sixes saw him retire at 30 from just 17 balls. Steaders continued to play the role he does best – anchoring the innings while others play around him – and we were making steady, if unspectacular progress. We were never quite up with the rate but we weren’t so far behind it to set the alarm bells ringing. At the halfway point of our 18 overs we had reached 67 for the loss of just one wicket, Phil caught for 6.

Despite the prospect of a close finish, the Medics’ energy seemed to be draining away. It was not just the shadows over the Cathedral School pitch that were getting longer – so was the time it was taking the Medics to bowl their overs. I don’t want to sound like Geoffrey Boycott having a moan on Test Match Special but COME ON!! Does there have to be two or three field–placing conferences during the course of each over? Unfortunately slow over rates appear to be a curse affecting so many of the games we play in. We’re losing valuable drinking time!

Rant over. We were well placed for a charge towards the total with plenty of batting available to help us push on towards our target. Game on.

Unfortunately for us, the Medics continued to bowl tightly and, with very few bad balls available for some treatment, our run chase was faltering. Jimmy had joined Steaders following Phil’s departure but was bowled for 5 by what seemed to be a very good delivery from where the rest of the Cavaliers were standing. Steaders retired on reaching a hard-earned 33 and when Glenn fell for 4 with the score standing at 86 in the 14th over, Gravy and JT were facing the daunting prospect of scoring 58 from just 28 deliveries. In fairness to the two old timers (combined age of 100), they took every opportunity to scamper between the wickets and Gravy hit a couple of nice 4s. However, Shri came on to bowl a couple of overs at the death, conceding just 8 runs with JT in particular founding it difficult to get bat on ball. Gravy and JT both finished not out on 18 and 15 respectively but the Cavaliers had fallen 23 short.

Not a game to live long in the memory. The bowling was ok, the fielding was ok, the opposition was ok, the batting was ok. It was just………………ok

Shrug. Sigh.

1. On a more positive note, the Cathedral School looked lovely in the evening sunlight and it was a nice change (and a break with Cavaliers traditions) to have a beer at the Maltsters afterwards.

Bowling details + catches/stumpings

A Graveson 3 – 0 – 17 – 1

J Marchant 3 – 0 – 25 – 0

M Dawkins 3 – 0 – 37 – 1

P Davies 3 – 0 – 19 – 1

Haroon 3 – 0 – 9 – 1

G Chapman 2 – 0 – 19 – 2

Shah 1 – 0 – 14 – 1 1 catch

D Goode 1 catch

D Davies 1 catch, 1 stumping

Batting details

A Steadman 33 retired (2 x 4)

Shah 30 retired (3 x 4, 2 x 6)

P Davies 6 (1 x 4)

J Marchant 5

G Chapman 4 (1 x 4)

A Graveson 18 not out (2 x 4)

J Thomas 15 not out

Haroon DNB

M Dawkins DNB

D Goode DNB

D Davies DNB

vs Barry West End, Friendly, 6th August, Cathedral School

Cavaliers 119 all out (33 overs)

BWE – 113 all out (39.3 overs)

Cavaliers won by 6 runs.

Following an early email, the sandwich makers and cake and drinks monitors were called into action; the pitch was passed fit and the green light given for catering duties to commence. The Cathedral outfield was a bit ‘pudding’ like but the pitch looked remarkably well considering the recent bad weather. Grizzly (Bus pass) Adams was seen in the distance, looked like Llantrisant it was so far from the wicket, putting out the boundary flags, Mo Farah would have had problems patrolling it!! The toss was performed and the Cavaliers were batting and we had an early scare when Adi discovered the food he had brought needed to be cooked and so off he went back home to light the oven and prevent any possibility of food poisoning!!

The two openers strode out to the wicket, Shah accompanied by birthday boy, JT Havers bringing his 55 years of experience to the crease!! Unfortunately the first present he received was the perfect Yorker from the West end opening bowler who had quickly found the perfect length on this difficult surface; JT was heard to mumble, ‘Happy F…… Birthday as he strode off the pitch. The wickets continued to fall and with Adi absent (It was rumoured he had got a part time job at the Juboraj) and put down to number 7, it was left to the Skipper Jimmy to steady the ship and try and take the innings to a respectable number. With the help of Grizz and the returning ‘Master chef’ Adi, he took the score to 96 before being given out LBW by birthday boy Havers (Still mumbling about his dismissal) for 51 having reached his 50 of 61 balls having spent 1 hour and 25 minutes at the crease, a fine and much needed innings. Just a footnote, square leg was the only person who appealed for the decision according to Jimmy!! Adi was joined by Steve and the innings continued to look better passing the 100 mark before Adi was dismissed and Steve was able to add more runs with the assistance of Dave and Glyn and the Cavaliers innings finally closed on 119 all out after 33 over’s. In the end it was a great recovery after a very shaky start as a result of some fine bowling, catching and fielding by a good West End team. Needless to say the ‘Mo Farah’ boundary was never breached.

A fine tea was taken, the Cavaliers had kept up their tradition of providing fine food and drinks for their opponents and the setting upstairs in the pavilion only adds to the ambience. It seems we are now also providing medical consultations as part of our services with our resident ‘Doc’ Adi providing advice on quite a few things from Blisters to Prostate issues to our opponents. One individual in particular was pretty keen on getting

to Adi to tell him he felt off colour every other day, to which Adi replied, well only get out of bed every other day, another satisfied customer!!

The West End innings commenced with Haroon opening the bowling and the first wicket came with the score on 3 with a smart run out by the Cavs. The ball was driven out towards the Mo Farah boundary and I can only think that the batsmen having seen the fielder disappear from view in the distance, got complacent only to be surprised by the return of the ball and the bails being taken off whilst they were arguing about running their fourth, amazing sight. The next wicket fell at 13 with Adi taking a magnificent one handed catch off the bowling of Haroon and the Cavaliers had their tails up. There was a short lull in proceedings with the score going onto to 44 before the other opener Dawson was bowled by Haroon for a fine 33. This then led to a spell where nine maidens were bowled with a further 4 wickets falling, a great team effort by the Cavaliers but one bowler in particular stood out, Adi who bowled magnificently finishing with figures of 8-6-5-2, a great spell which has led to the club Historian, Grizz (Bus Pass) Adams frantically searching through the archives to check if it has ever happened previously, I doubt it very much. The Cavaliers could now sense victory and the fine bowling continued with the Skipper also keeping things tight backed up by Shah, Joey and Grizz. However the result remained in the balance with the West End batsmen steadily taking runs before the Cavaliers finally nailed the win with a fine stumping by Dave off the bowling of Bus Pass Adams to bring the West End innings to a close and produce a magnificent and well deserved win for the Cavaliers. A fine game played in a good spirit with both teams contributing to the excitement. Another footnote, the Mo Farah boundary again remained intact however a run four was achieved by the opposition who had some fine youngsters who were able to achieve it.

Champagne moment: I think this was achieved by Adi with his one handed catch and his magnificent bowling spell, congratulations to him.

A special mention for the skipper Jimmy whose innings kept us in the game and gave us a score to bowl at. But also to every Cavalier on the field who performed magnificently and contributed to this fine result.

Also to the West End player standing as Umpire at square leg who performed a brilliant rugby tackle on his dog who had escaped the clutches of his minder on the boundary, this game had everything!!

Cavaliers Batting

JT 0

Shah 3

Ali 0

Jim 51

Haroon 3

Grizz 6

Joey 0

Adi 17

Steve 11

Dave 3

Glyn n.o.1

Cavaliers Bowling Figures

Haroon 8-0-40-2

Glyn 2-0-10-0

Bus Pass Adams 3.3-1-17-1

Joey 6-3-9-2

Adi 8-6-5-2

Jimmy 8-3-12-1

Shah 4-0-16-1

vs Cardiff Bay Dragons, Friendly, Thursday 10th August 2017, Cathedral school,

Cavs 70/9 after 20 overs

Cardiff Bay Dragons 71/3 after 16.4 overs

Cardiff Bay Dragons win by 7 wickets

As the cavaliers gathered, discussions were made about who we were playing. Eventually Jimmy gave the correct name and was eager to get started. With the sun out and maybe the last mid week fixture, he was confident that the Cavs could put on a great batting display!

JT and Duffy opened and strode to the middle in confident fashion in their beautiful ironed whites, although what seemed like an eternity the opposition appeared to be on

‘Sunday drivers’ time. It wasn’t until just after 6:15pm that the first ball was delivered and this delivery woke JT up as on a good length it rose sharply around JT’s chin although he gentlemanly in a suave manner swayed away from the cherry.

Both openers found the pitch difficult since the ball was just not coming onto the bat well. Both were removed without troubling the scorers which was the same for a number of other batsmen. The skipper hit the only 4 with Grizz hitting the highest score for batsmen and with a generous 25 runs coming via extras, Cavaliers finished on 70/9.

Poulsom played some nice shots however the slow outfield caused these to be 2’s instead of 4’s. A disappointing batting display, although forgotten about as the Cavs took the field. Again the opposition were slow in sending in batsmen to open up their innings.

Their opener Avinash played a dangerous game advancing down the wicket and played a number of shots across the line against the duo of Frazer and poulsom eventually succumbing to the skipper and went for 32 runs. Duffy had also taken the other opener for 8 and finished with tidy figures of 1-8. Jimmy and Twaits kept the Dragons scoring rate down and when grizz took an easy caught and bowled chance it appeared although a very long shot we might pull this off!!! Although the dragons had overs in their favour and consistently scored a few runs every over and eventually hit the winning runs with 3.2 overs remaining.

Both teams played the match in good spirits so consequently the opposition asked to have fixtures next year, which we should win provided we play to our potential. We retired to the Butchers for talk of the upcoming tour and, in particular, the hope for a round of golf on Bristol’s par 3 course.

Champagne moment: no real contenders although Dave did keep wicket well on a difficult wicket.

Batting details

[list players, their score + 4/6s]

Thomas – 0 (bowled)

Duffy – 0 (LBW)

Frazer – 6 (Caught)

Marchant – 12 (Caught)

Nash – 1 (Bowled)

Adams – 15 not out

Twaits – 1 (LBW)

Parkhurst – 0 (Bowled)

Browne – 0 (Run out by Grizz)

Poulsom – 7 (LBW)

Davies – 3 not out

Extras –

Bowling details + catches/stumpings

[list players, their bowling analysis Ov-Md-Runs-Wkts + Ct/St]

Frazer 2-0-17-0

Duffy 2-0-14-0

Parkhurst 1-0-4-0

Marchant 3-0-10-1

Twaits 3-1-3-0

Adams 2-1-8-1 + 1 caught and bowled.

Brownie – 2-0-7-0

v Bohemians CC, Friendly, Tour Match Fri 18th Aug

Bohemians 100/3 (15 overs)

Cavaliers 50/1 (7 overs)

Match abandoned.

The BBC weather for Bristol was forecasting heavy rain for early evening as the fag end of Hurricane Gurt hit our shores.

As your heroes made the short journey over the Severn there was a definite sense of the inevitable. Upon arrival at the functional home venue at the NE of Bristol we were greeted to a howling gale, a sodden outfield and the Stygian gloom so beloved of the now disgraced Stuart Hall’s description of a headed goal at some Lancashire outpost as Burnden Park or Gigg Lane.

Both captains agreed to shorten the game to 15 overs per side and the home side took first strike. Dawkins removed John with a catch by Marchant which was just as well as he looked handy. Grizz and then Browny gritted their teeth bowling straight into gale with Jimmy struggling to get his instructions understood in the wind. Still there was no excuse for Fraser making a complete hash of a routine stop and allowing a four. He ended lounging on the boundary like that seductive temptress and Cockney rhyming slang for a bodily function of the 60/70s Eartha Kitt. Brown did a double teapot.

Fraser attoned by removing the pedestrian Patten which then heralded a series of elegant but powerful strikers of the ball. One in particular was inflicting damage and his progress to mandatory retirement at 25 was only halted when he top edged Jimmy into his eye (the batsman not Jimmy). Fortunately no serious damage was done. Always wear a lid.!

Duffy took a great return catch and we managed to keep in the game and they closed on 100-3. Top marks to Nash behind the stumps for keeping up spirits and to JT and

Twaitsy.for boundary patrol in the Arctic conditions. I think we were all jeaulous of our groupies Mc Veigh, Payne and the Gog in his high vis Security jacket safely snug in the warmth.

Stupidly your correspondent went for a leak and in his absence was nominated for umpiring duties. He disappeared into the spiteful wind feeling like Oates ” I am going for a walk and I might be some time” in Scott of the Antarctic. Chapman lookedin no trouble at all with characteristic driving and pulling before retirement at 30. His partner Billy Ward of Bristol now showcased his signature scythe to the midwicket boundary. Not even Kohli knows this one and was undefeated on 18. These two were neither interested or built for grubby quick singles.

Unfortunately by now the rain was coming in horizontal and despite Gandhi and Alii coming out to replace Glenn and the umpire respectively, stumps were pulled and handshakes exchanged. Both sides must be congratulated in getting 22 overs in a awful night.

All we needed was a nice warm shower to restore body and soul and all we got a weak stream of ice cold water. Drat and double drat!

Into the Clubhouse and IT savvy Ali found that we were ahead on Duckworth – Lewis. Nonetheless all were happy with an honourable draw when both sides showed a great desire to enjoy the game come what may. We said our farewells and headed into the centre and ended up in some hipsters bar that now seem to have concerned the market for real ale. But really beer in only 1/3, 1/2 or 2/3 but not a pint. Sometimes I just don’t whats going on out there.

Saturday 19 August Rest Day so called.

There is always the temptation to kill time for a few hours before going back on the booze. Fortunately the Ashton Court Par 3 Golf complex came to the rescue. Although I can only comment on the efforts of Grizz,Gog,Ali,JT and Browny I think my comments applies to all members of the tour. It was a round of many curious shots but even more curious approaches to accurately recording the score. Our party lost balls,tees,pens and even clubs. I found it amusing that people that cannot hit the ball 20 yards in the right direction were so precise on club selection. It would not matter a jot whether a driver,putter or even a shovel was used. JT despite taking a 10 at the 1st pipped Browny by 1. Ali shamed Grizz and the Gog by not squabbling as to who came 3rd.

We reconvened in a beer garden in Clifton and had a wonderful few hours with Cavalier tales which become larger with every pint. The only jarring note was when Grizz accused Browny of knowing Mrs Adams mobile number. Strangely he had also nicked the KGB trousers to take home to his abode. The cad!

The youngish blades headed back to the hotel to freshen up while the old gits headed down to the Hope and Anchor in Jacob Wells Road. A Fine establishment with good food. We contemplated breaking into Bristol’s self styled premier speakeasy but ended up in the more prosaic Wetherspoons. En route to our digs Gog decided to celebrate returning to his home city by producing a technicolour yawn in a flower pot. ( On the basis of what happens on tour stays on tour I asked his permission but he urged publication)

A great day and proof that the club spirit still endures.

vs Hambrook, Friendly, Tour match, Sunday 20th August

Hambrook – 100/5

Cavaliers – 121/2

Cavaliers Won by 8 wickets

…Following on from Episode 1 of Tour 2017…Episode 2 (Attack of the Cavaliers) started around 10am on ‘match day Sunday’, when sore heads finally arose from their comfortable Premier Inn Boudoirs. After dragging Jimmy and co. from a small Macaron and Coffee shop (bloody hipsters) the ‘younger’ half of the team adventured across town in hope of securing a table at a desirable breakfast house recommended by Bill. Unfortunately it was fully booked, so we continued into the ‘arty’ part of Bristol (Stokes Croft) to discover a decent enough establishment to enjoy some over-priced eggs. I believe the more senior members of the team stayed local to the hotel for breakfast.

We turned up to what looked to be a nice enough ground and, thankfully, managed not to forget Twaitsy this time. With the weather looking more befitting of a late August weekend, some of us were hopeful that a full game would be played. However, with a monsoon booked in for 4pm, the two captains decided to play a T20 match and then, weather permitting, play a further T20 match…a T20 test match so to speak.

Hambrook batted first with Jason opening from one end – bowling absolute wheels and causing all sorts of bother, and Gog bowling at the other end – delivering some majestic spin bowling that made both batsman look rather worried. Gog then ripped out the opening batsman’s stump with a fine, looping delivery that hit middle! First change was Dorko and Grizz who followed up with some tremendous bowling; with Dorko’s two overs going for 1 run (!!) and Grizz removing batsman 3 with a sharp caught and bowled and batsman 4’s middle stump shortly after. I believe Grizz should have had a third wicket from what can only be described as the easy stumping of all time, however ‘This is England’, aka Steve, was dreaming about his next pint of Stella / Bar Brawl and managed to make a right mess of it!

A fine start for the Cavaliers. Third change was Al Fraser and Jimmy who bowled well, despite a few more runs coming from this period of bowling; the young batsmen had settled by this point after being shaken up by Gog and Grizz, and started to play a few nice shots. Al managed to get some pace out of the pitch, bowling with a bit of fizz which was nice to see. Fourth change was brothers Terry Twaits and Ali, with Twaits struggling to use the facilities and going for 27 runs off 2 overs…oh dear. Ali bowled tight and really showed how much he’s come on as a bowler these last few years. He should have had a wicket too, but his older brother shelled it at Long On (brotherly love). Caramel and Glenn came on towards the end of the innings and bowled some tight stuff and got a bit out of the pitch. Gandhi was rapid.

Hambrook finished on 100 runs – a very achievable total. NB: One of the finest Cavalier bowling performances we’ve seen in recent years!

Cavaliers opened with their final bowling partnership of Gandhi and Glenn who got off to a flying start, with Gandhi putting away a few loose balls. Things then started to escalate, with Glenn playing some wonderful ground strokes and Gandhi crunching a few powerful 4’s to the boundary, before opening up and hitting a tasty 6’s. Apparently he was desperately trying to put one through a white Mercedes window…and came close’ish…! The score quickly got up to 62 off 10 overs when Gandhi tried one too many flamboyant shots and sent one back to the bowler to be gobbled up. In came Steve Nash who threw the kitchen sink at most deliveries, getting a few nice runs here and there! Steve was then bowled which allowed Al Fraser to grace the crease, shortly followed by Jimmy to finish

off the innings in true style. The game was won comfortably at 18 overs, however, Jimmy and Al continued just in case there was a second innings. Jimmy hit two sensational 6’s to finish off what was a brilliant Cavaliers innings.

We attempted a second innings, however the rain as promised came down so we all retreated to the club house for tea and a beer!

This was a great way to end a fantastic weekend with the Cavaliers! Everyone played and socialised in the spirit of the club and tour and many thanks go to those who helped pull it all together. This is a truly special club, which should be treasured, preserved and built upon. I’ve attached a few snaps from the weekend. Enjoy x

Match Stats:

Bowling:

Duffy 2 Overs, 7 Runs, 0 Wickets

Davies 2 Overs, 6 Runs, 1 Wicket

Dawkins 2 Overs, 1 Run, 0 Wickets

Adams 2 Overs, 8 Runs, 2 Wickets

Fraser 2 Overs, 18 Runs, 0 Wickets

Marchant 2 Overs, 15 Runs, 1 Wicket

Twaits 2 Overs, 27 Runs!, 0 Wickets

Parkhurst 2 Overs, 5 Runs, 0 Wickets

Gandhi 2 Overs, 4 Runs, 1 Wicket

Chapman 2 Overs, 9 Runs, 0 Wickets

Batting:

Gandhi 43 Ct & Bowled

Chapman 29 RT

Nash 18 Bowled

Fraser 3 NO

Marchant 17 NO

v Barry Wanderers, Friendly, Hayes Point, Sully Hospital.23rd September 2017 –

Barry Wanderers 179 for 8

Cavaliers 156 all out.

Barry Wanderers won by 23 runs

The last time the Cavaliers were together for a game was on the weekend of the partly washed out games in Bristol when we were on tour. Since then we had the August Bank Holiday, a rained off game at Barry West End and being bumped by Lisvane and finally a free weekend last week. Much wet stuff has passed over South Wales during that time and it was nice just to get a final game in on the shoreline at Hayes point. The last time I wrote a report was the first game of the season at this venue when I was still young, gay & debonair back in April.

Anyway enough of my reminiscences it was a fine day after the rain and good Cardiff livestock had made the journey West to Sully Hospital to try their hand at bat & bowl on the green sloping expanse which is home to our good friends Barry Wanderers.

Wanderers batted first and the Skipper bowled Gravy senior and the Gog as his prime attack it was a slow low track, somewhat two paced and the opening bowlers kept the wanderers in check. Gravy finished with figures of 4 overs 1 for 19 and Gog 4 overs 1 maiden 2 for 12. On came Adi and Ken Brown who had a near death experience on Thursday when a Gloucester batsman at Sophia Gardens hit a six which smacked the boards just a foot from Brown’s head. Some said if it had hit him it might have improved him others say you cannot improve perfection. Adi finished with 4 overs 1 maiden 1 for 12 and Brown with 4 overs 0 for 20 but always kept the batsmen guessing.

Next change was the former pop pixie Duffy who has come out of reclusivity to take up a new role as a bowler in the Cavaliers, he bowled a good line right up “ Warwicks Avenue “ finishing with 4 overs 1 maiden 1 for 14 and the other change was the Haverfordwest star Marchant de lange who bowled 5 overs 2 maidens 0 for 7. No wickets but gave Beau Nash behind the stumps plenty of bruises and gave few runs away.

A historic moment then occurred when Tom Gravy Junior came onto bowl making his debut at 14 and playing with Dad “ Gravy Senior “ in the same side. Once Tom had settled down we saw his worth and he delivered some very good deliveries at senior opposition. His figures of 5 overs 1 for 43 included the very valuable wicket of Jon who had been smashing the ball around , well caught by Nasher behind the stumps. The Honourable Moore was the other change bowler making his first and last appearance of the season, old golden elbow had figures of 4 overs 0 for 20. The final overs were bowled by Tosh Chapman 3 overs 0 for 18 and JT Havers who supplied great figures of 3 overs 2 for 10. A grand total of 179 for 8, a good total on a challenging wicket.

Tea was taken and sandwiches, cake, crisps and tea were consumed by hungry warriors from both sides.

The batting then commenced with Gravy Senior and Rama the Prince of cricket scorers. They played very well to have a stand of 53 for the first wicket before Gravy was bowled by Hill for 32, Adi Rama fell for 19 and Jimmy was undone for 9. Enter the Hwyllford dragon – Tosh Chapman who then proceeded to smash sixes for fun, five of them in total before he fell for a magnificent 60 runs. Nasher the bruised came and went without

troubling the scorers and Tom G survived for several balls before he lost his wicket. JT made 6, Honourable Moore 7 and pop pixie Duffy 6. The debonair Davis tripped to the wicket flicked the first ball around the corner with Glenns second string reserve bat and then received a brute of a ball that pitched and rolled along the ground bowling him for a studious duck. Browny came and showed his class finishing on 1 not out, his near death experience earlier in the week not fazing him at all. A creditable 156 all out – losing by 23 runs, a game played in a marvellous spirit.

Well brothers that’s it season over but the dinner to look forward to and then the 40th season in 2018 when we will all be a year older and as the saying goes deeper in debt. Long may this team continue and flourish in this great game.