The Captains Report 2009

The loss of the Club Captain at the start of the season was a blow to the Club but the breech was filled by Stu Beasley, Rob Barker and Stan Kemp during the season and it was particularly gratifying to see the balanced, astute and inclusive manner in which Stu filled the role.

Despite the poor record of results, the team were only outplayed in 3 games, all away at Middlezoy, Chinnock and Wincanton and were in winning positions in 2 games which were abandoned due to the weather. Notwithstanding this, the fact that the Club fielded 11 players and an umpire in all but 2 games was an outstanding achievement due, in the main, to the efforts of Neil Spearing. We were again finalists in the Crusader 20/20 losing to a very strong Coker side after a long day. Clearly, the teams strongest suit was in the bowling department and, when at full strength, the attack was the equal of any in the league with Tom James, Neil Spearing, Andy Spearing, Rob Barker and Stu Beasley well supported by Ed Clarke, Richard Parker and Nick Chambers.

On paper our batting line up looked good with a strong opening partnership of Phil Spurway and either Stu Beasley or Dai Maude, depending on circumstances. Richard Parker showed his potential on many occasions and deservedly won the batting trophy. However, with the exception of Kev Johnsons frequent dogged performances in the middle order and occasional cameos from Rob Barker and Rich Trickey, we too often failed to do ourselves justice, leading to collapses after a good start. This will need to be addressed next year and we must work harder and value our wickets more.

Fielding this year was improved immensely by the influx of young players and Dai had another good season behind the stumps ably covered by Ed Clarke during his injury enforced absences.

One often overlooked contribution was that of Andy Clark as our regular umpire and we should never under estimate the value of his services.

The greatest successes of the Club this year have been its survival, the spirit of the team and the manner in which the younger players have emerged. Hopefully, with another year under their belts and more regular appearances from Rich Trickey, Andy Spearing and Mark Spearing, we will surprise a few teams next year.

Stan Kemp
Chetnole CC