Radley College  2 May 2024

Manager AJ Smith

Lost by 7 Wickets

SOA 184 for 5 dec (Alex Basford 24, Steve Green 35*, Hector Wade 30)

Radley College 188 for 3

A persistent southerly jet stream with a kink over southern Britain had brought a string of low pressure systems across England in the months leading up to our encounter with Radley IIs. As it turned out this was a theme which continued all summer. So.... it was a bit damp and not hot. However, Radley's excellent groundstaff produced an absolute belter of a second pitch, albeit with a small damp patch. But hey we're all used to avoiding those.

The facilities really are excellent. The second pavilion is smart, generously appointed and, with a commanding view of the ground, it's a terrific place to watch the game for a wuss like me on a cool day.

Skipper Pat Knightley had decided to go on holiday instead of playing, and stand in skipper Steve Green was running late preparing the pitch at Abingdon School (fair enough), so it was left to stand-in-stand-in captain Craig Foster to win the toss and decide to have a bat.

Early season is always a bit tricky and Radley's second string attack is young and disciplined. We found it hard going and lost wickets regularly. Even those who got in got out.

However, everyone chipped in, and with the help of some quality from Leigh Tomlinson (27), Hector Wade (30), a Radley boy, who stepped in for Iain Campbell (citing an age-related deterioration in form), and acceleration from a very classy looking Alexander Basford (47) and the always reliable Steve Green (35), we had made a creditable but unspectacular 184-5 from 40 overs when we declared.

Radley's tea is very good. Of course.

Radley's reply was dominated by a fine 80 from Ollie Southan from just 45 balls. We were put to the sword in uninhibited style, with the boys knocking the runs off in the 25th over.

We weren't embarrassed just beaten. Fair play to the boys. Hopefully we will be invited to return next year and we can look for satisfaction.