At the halfway point of the U11s season, it is a good opportunity to update everyone with progress. The team have had seven fixtures of which two opponents [Bugbrooke and Overstone ‘B’] conceded due to not being able to field teams on the day.Unfortunately, the lads have not been able to secure their first victory as yet, but have been close on a couple of occasions, which has been terrific given the clubs they have played are all more senior within the NCL hierarchy [Brixworth, St Crispins Ryelands, Great Houghton, West Haddon, Guilsborough and Horton House].The main theme of the season for Cogenhoe has been the team have generally scored more runs off the bat, taken more wickets and fielded better than their opposition, but the main reason for their defeats has been the number of wides being bowled, which cost 2 runs every time. If we can tighten up and bowl more consistently through the second half of the season, I am optimistic that win is around the corner, even though they are due to play some of the ‘big boys’ in Northampton Saints, Overstone ‘A’ and the two Old Northamptonian sides before the end of the year.Each of the boys deserves a mention:-
- Alfie Wreford [c] – The team’s top scorer so far this season, Alfie has led the team well and still not lost a toss this season [Messrs Lester and Knight, take note!].
- George Thompson [wk] – one of the only two ever-presents in the team, George’s first year behind the stumps has been encouraging, not afraid to take a hit to stop the ball. A batsman in the Boycott mould.
- Hrishi Dave – The most improved player from last season, Hrishi is an ever-present and is always at nets. He has been consistent with bat and ball and is affectionately known as ‘tic-tac’ due to the ever-present box of tic-tacs he carries around at training.
- Sam Tipler – One of the keenest learners, Sam’s innings of 15no at Horton against their superb bowlers has been one of the highlights of the season.
- Will Tipler – An occasional over-age player for the U11s, Will’s previous experience has been vital in encouraging the younger boys. Bats and bowls very sensibly.
- Jake Morrissey – Our death bowler and current leading wicket-taker, always encouraging his team-mates and offering the odd sledge to the opposition, great fielding.
- Liam Morrissey – Has scored his first runs and taken his first wickets for the club, often against opponents several years older than him, fearless in the field.
- Taylor Hollobon – Taylor has grown more confident each week and has scored with some lovely shots.
- Sam Tennant – Like Taylor, his first year with the club has shown real promise. Sam has a good eye for the ball and is often seen diving in the field to stop the ball.
- Harvey Westall – Skippered the team once in Alfie’s absence as an over-age player, Harvey has natural ball skills and hits the ball hard.
- Spencer Smith – Only made one appearance, but Spencer has a good eye for the ball and a fantastic throw.
- Oliver Woolley – Restricted to one appearance due to other commitments, Oliver has a knack for making spectacular catches.
I would also like to thank Charlie Bryant for preparing both practice and match strips for the lads and for also volunteering to umpire [as has Allan Packer at St Crispins] and to Syd Mason for scoring each week.