There was also cricket, for young and old. The Junior
Strollers demonstrated impressive skills and enthusiasm before Senior
proceedings got under way, not to mention flexibility and athleticism.
There were four changes to the Exiles XI from the previous
week – Reuben Levermore, Mike Loan, Tim Swan, and Andrew Thomas coming in for Phil
Harris, Jake Pearson, Tim Prebble, and Tom Rennie. Notably, there was no Glen
Scanlon, for the second week in a row, due to Covid.
In previous visits to Bottom Paddock, the Exiles' depth of
batting has meant competitive totals even after a cluster of early wickets.
This time the rearguard action never materialised, the Strollers posting a
disappointing 117. Nine wickets were shared amongst eight different
bowlers. The run-out of Thomas (65-4) turned out to be a pivotal
moment.
One useful innovation was introduced by George Love:
fielding for the Bottoms in front of the Totara tree, he palmed a potential
catch into the branches for an automatic six. We remain committed to providing
our hosts with sub fielders whenever necessary in future, in the best
traditions of sportsmanship and friendly cricket.
The Bottoms started their innings in cautious but
unflustered fashion, until a direct hit from Love got things moving. Wickets
then fell regularly, with the highlight being Levermore's spell of left-arm
spin and flight (4-1-12-3).
Just two more tailend wickets were required for the
Strollers to claim an improbable victory. In truth, we were always chasing the
game, and Ryan (ex Johnsonville prems) closed the match in
authoritative fashion with plenty of overs to spare.
Dips were taken in the sacred grove - though the water was
so warm it failed to qualify as certifiable high performance cryogenic
therapy - and there was a wonderful bbq, mingling, and speeches under the shade
of the trees, as Junior Strollers took over the pitch once more.
As ever, it was wonderful to reunite the Exiles from
various corners of New Zealand. Scanlon's absence was noted again - it was
agreed that his hard-nosed West Coast style would probably have got us across
the line in both matches. So we blame him for the results.
There was talk of extending our fixture list in 2026, with Jono
Addis delegated to investigate opportunities in Hawkes Bay. For now we look
forward to reading of events at the annual dinner and then Great
Missenden.
Capt and match report: Piers Ovenden.
Wkt: Hamish McDougall/Jono Addis.
