Saturday's emphatic 5th XI victory over Cove was accompanied by the somewhat surprise defeat of Falkland to leave the young Finch side Champions of TVL Division 9A.

A season's return of Played 14, Won 11, Drawn 1, Lost 0 and Abandoned 2 deservedly secured the accolade which for a while looked out of reach due to the vagaries of the league scoring system that favours toss winners who bat first and an ill timed OMT rain storm!

The results were consistently delivered by a mix of experience; including Richard Potter and Michael Bale with bat, gloves and the shared on the field direction, Tony McDowell's flight and guile and "Daddee" Dave Marles' fantastic enthusiasm and week in and out committment; coupled with the talent of our young cricketers; without naming them all, the spin of Tom Potter and JJ Dewes who both returned 25+ wickets at single figures apiece, Dan Marles' 450 runs at an average of over 40, Tom Mitchell's pace, aggression and fielding, Adam Dewes with the final three wickets of the season for no run, and Jack McLean's maiden 100 all spring immediately to mind.

Fathers joyously played with, caught and stumped for, batted with and generally assisted their sons through their first season of men's cricket and the boy's youthful enthusiasm, unity, skill and friendship held the whole thing together. The season would not have been happened without these talented children who are the future of the club, I applaud them all and wish them the best of luck as they progress through the higher Finch XI's in future years.

Lastly I thank Paul who prepared our home wickets (did someone tell him we had a hatful of spinners?), Rachel and Jane who made those fantastic teas, Mike and Tom Wroot who scored, and all the Mum's and Dad's who fetched, carried, encouraged and supported.

All of this contributed to a true "Finchampstead" display.

Pots