From the first team selection it was evident that this would be a different team to that of previous years . the average age had increased significantly . a testament to the club's colt policy with a number of previous years. third team youngsters making up the nucleus of first and second teams.
The season started brightly, a narrow second place in the opening match followed by an exciting tied match against Whiteley. Both matches seeing a certain Bob Joyce, coaxed out of league match 'retirement' scoring runs. The team then embarked on a long journey in search of its first win. All too often one individual was able to score some runs, but there was insufficient support from the rest of the order to post the required total, and the bowling attack often found it difficult to bowl sides out.
Despite this, apart from a couple of matches where we were completely outplayed with bat and ball, the team endured a number of close defeats, but the habit was losing.
Midway through the season the defining moment was reached. Having bowled the opposition out for 111 (Micky Brogan 6-42) and seemingly cruising towards victory at 43 for 1, defeat was snatched from the jaws of victory as the batting capitulated to 84 all out . would we win a game this season?
The following week victory was achieved . a 3 run win against (Grant Bauchop 5-54) . all the sweeter as it was against local rivals Locks Heath! From then on, a new habit was formed . WINNING! The team embarked on a winning streak, losing only once more (a nail-biter against Compton and Chandlers Ford) to finish the season mid-table.
Throughout the season there were fine performances with the ball from Les Orr, Micky Brogan, Bob Joyce and Paul Thwaites, with Alex Hammond showing some encouraging signs for the future. With the bat there were no centuries (although a couple of close calls) and several half-centuries. Key contributors being Bob Joyce, Roy Hammond and myself.
Then of course there was the youngsters . the nature of third team cricket and the future of this club. Billy Allen, Peter Coulthard and Alex Hammond became regulars in the side with cameo appearances from David Dunkley, Craig Raddon and others.
Finally, thanks must be given to all the support people involved during the season . umpires, scorers, tea-makers, groundsmen, et al. I would also like to extend my thanks to Ray Hammond, for being there when I couldn't and for making the Monday to Friday part of Saturday cricket run so smoothly.
As for next season, I wish the 3rd team captain every success and hope 2003 continues in the same manner as 2002 ended.
