Reports - 2003

Frogs vs Wimbledon CC

Venue: Church Road

Date: 4th May

Result: Frogs lose by 11 runs.

Wimbledon     206-7 (40 overs)          (Rodger 5 for 70)

Frogs               195-6 (40 overs)          (Janmohamed 104*)

The centenary season kicked off in surprising fashion with bright sunshine greeting us – this early year fixture generally being abandoned due to rain. Further shock as, under the watchful gaze of the President, the oppo’s skipper was brilliantly run out in the first over by Phillips. This however was the peak as what can only be described as early season Frogs fielding – dropped catches and extra runs conceded - was to prove costly in the end.

Marshall as ever bowled well but somehow finished wicketless. Some interesting bowling spells (get to the nets chaps) lead to the early introduction of Rodger who bowled a fine lengthy spell ending with 5 for 70 from 17 overs. Lawrence took 3 with his off spin from the other end as the last wicket pair pushed the home side past 200; par for the pitch but at least 30 more than they should have got. Special mention for a remarkable one handed catch by Kevin Warner.

Onto the chase and the early dismissal of Pascal led to the innings foundation being built by Abeed ably supported firstly by Phillips then Lawrence. After Lawrence lobbed a full toss to deep square the innings stalled before the ‘naturally gifted’ Rayner joined Abeed. As a potentially match winning partnership was built the home side went on the defensive, posting men to the boundary, drying up the fours. Rayner departed for a good 33 in an attempt to keep up with the rate, leaving the skipper to see Abeed through to his ton and the Frogs to a final total just 11 short. Janmohamed’s 104 not out was classy and deserved to win the game. An enjoyable start to the year nonetheless.

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Frogs vs Harrow Wanderers CC

Venue: Ascott Park

Date: 18th May

Result: Match cancelled.

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Frogs vs Amersham CC

Venue: Shardeloes

Date: 25th May

Result: Frogs win by 25 runs.

Frogs               209 for 8         (Bray 58, Baker 41)

Amersham       184                  (Westbrook 5 for 42, Price 3 for 45)

The day started spectacularly with a complete Frogs XI at the ground by 11:20 (Keith unable to play in this game!) and the Captain then won the toss and, with complete confidence in his side, elected to bat first on a bit of a green top. Amersham took the field with 7 plus a couple of Frogs to keep things in perspective. Duncan Ward was then left with the task of ringing round trying to get Amersham up to playing strength. After an hour one additional player had been coerced so it was suggested that Duncan play for Amersham, bringing them up to nine and the Frogs would play with ten.

Meanwhile our opening partnership of Baker and Bray (coming out of retirement) was prospering with quiet confidence bringing the 50 up in the 14^th  over with only a couple of minor scares (two dropped catches) and taking the score on to 73 before the infamous Ward got in to his stride and removed Baker, for 41 including a particularly memorable 6, followed shortly by Ellis (getting 9.8 for executing a the triple salko whilst being yorked) and Bray for 58 (2 minutes earlier than his usual pre lunch dismissal!).

Amersham meanwhile had continued their recruitment campaign and by lunchtime had found another player and coerced the groundsman into playing (Amersham 11 players – Frogs 10 – and we had given up our No.4 Batsman and opening bowler – very obvious our Captain is in Human Resources and not Sales!!). 

After lunch Price and Slater took the score on sedately to 134 until Price chased one outside off. Slater then bludgeoned a couple of 4s but we then went through a small crisis losing Soutter, Slater and Prain for 10 runs. At this stage Thomas and Westbrook steadied the ship and took the score on to 209 before Thomas was out caught from a steepler at long on by the infamous Ward.

On taking the field the Captain redeemed himself somewhat by negotiating a permanent substitute fielder (distinctly more athletic than any Frogs on view!) and we got off to a flyer when Price yorked one of the Amersham openers in the second over with the score at 2. Amersham then took control with Dwyer and Hamilton-Pike looking pretty comfortable even against the wily Westbrook who had commenced, what was to be a marathon and match-winning spell. In his second over he had Hamilton-Pike dropped by Thomas at extra cover but then enticed Dwyer to top edge one to Andrew Marshall at cover. Tea was taken with the score at 65 for 2.

After tea Amersham took control although Hamilton-Pike did offer one chance to Ellis (off the Captain!!!) which was declined (Ellis’s day had started badly and still had some downhill to negotiate at this stage!) and it took a brilliant piece of fielding by Westbrook off his own bowling to remove Hamilton-Pike with a run out.

The tide was now beginning to turn and when Alwyn ran himself out (164 for 4) and Stephenson was deceived by Westbrook the game hinged upon Adams and Ward.  Being the generous souls we are we managed to drop each of them once but by now Westbrook was not to be denied and Price had found some form (also bowling orthodox slow left arm at this stage). Adams went caught in the deep (by the substitute fielder (Amersham captain Stephenson) and Ward at long off which just left the Groundsman and the youngsters. Westbrook picked up one and Price bowled a couple of straight ones to get favourable LBW shouts wrapping the game up for us.

A fun game played in a great atmosphere and very lucky with the weather.

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Frogs vs Grasshoppers CC

Venue: St Georges College, Webridge

Date: 26th May

Result: Frogs win by 3 wickets.

Grasshoppers   159                  (Janmohamed 4 for 42, Rawlinson 3 for 5)

Frogs               162 – 7            (Janmohamed 70, Ward 57)

The Grasshoppers innings revolved around a fine innings by Peter Widdup (72) on a pitch of uncertain pace. No-one else made 20, although there were useful contributions from the lower middle order. The Frogs bowling was uniformly steady with a fine opening spell by Mike Chetwode followed by accurate and testing bowling from Abeed Janmohamed and Keith Rodger, who made destructive inroads into the Grasshoppers batting line up. Harry Rawlinson then cleaned up the tail summarily.

Our innings began disastrously with three wickets falling within the first quarter of an hour, including a bizarre run out and a strange stumping. However, a recovery begun by Abeed and Duncan Ward blossomed into a splendid century partnership which took us close to victory. But then … another collapse and it was left to Ian Rolland and the captain to edge and nudge their way to the victory target by a narrower margin than should have been the case.

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Frogs vs Hampshire Hogs CC

Venue: Warnford

Date: 1st June

Result: Frogs win.

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Frogs vs Chesham CC

Venue: The Meadow

Date: 8th June

Result: Match Abandoned.

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Frogs vs Nomads CC

Venue: Epson College

Date: 15th June

Result: Match Drawn.

Frogs               281 for 3 dec   (Norman 101*, Janmohamed 97)

Nomads           197-8               (Janmohamed 3 for 49)

An old-fashioned nice day at the cricket, with the Frogs taking the honours on a hot & cloudless day.

Epsom College is a dramatic ground – built on a slope on the side of Epsom Downs, surrounded by high grass banks and tall trees. The square has been re-laid in the quest for pace and bounce, the old pavilion has been re-furbished & there’s a smart new electronic scoreboard.

However, the game was scheduled for the much smaller colts pitch, with a patchy wicket and small boundaries. The Nomads won the toss and inserted us. Having skilfully scored 36, weathering extreme variable bounce and several nasty raps on the gloves, the Frogs openers quite rightly refused to carry on and the game was moved to the First XI square, thanks to the agreement of the master-in-charge who had seen the two sides de-camping.

Shortly after, Phillips went for 15, unjust reward for toughing it out on the original track. Chalk inside-edged onto his stumps just as he was getting going.

But the morning belonged to Janmohamed, who continued his feasting from the Wimbledon and Grasshoppers games.  Untroubled by anything the Nomads served up, he mixed sound defence and dismissive attacking shots to progress faultlessly to 67* out of a lunchtime score of 115-2.

Lunch was long, plentiful & the elder statesmen of both clubs, each of which (club) is celebrating its centenary year, discussed matters of state while they tucked into the wine.

Meanwhile, Janmohamed and especially Norman tucked into the Nomads, laying waste to half-trackers and length balls with equal relish. Nothing looked more certain than a third 100 in four Frogs games for Abeed when he was somehow caught off the Nomads skipper for 97. A copybook opener’s innings.

Norman continued to plunder the Nomads at will. Chapman didn’t hang about either, bludgeoning a powerful, unbeaten 37 and ensuring that the momentum didn’t let up. Hugo reached a really good 100 on the stroke of half time and the declaration.

In reply on this legendary chasing ground, Walsh struck early & Marshall threatened to take wickets without having much luck.  Belton, who had missed out on a bat courtesy of the Abeed/Hugo/Jeff show, nipped out the number 3 just before tea, thanks to a smart low catch by Hugo. The teatime score stood at 70-2 with a lot for both sides to do in the last session.

After tea, the Nomads looked to the surviving opening batsman and one of the opening bowlers to play the crucial big innings. The former played soundly and the latter briefly succeeded in smashing everything, and both had reached the forties when Abeed’s golden arm snaffled them, aided by good catches from Walsh and Belton. Abeed also picked up two run-outs to pip Hugo to the man-of-the match award.

As the overs ran down, Walsh returned and bagged a second wicket when the President took a neat catch at leg gully, and Brown wheeled away gamely for a few, but an inconvenient 28 from a friend of Jeff’s, guesting for the Nomads, and resolute blocking from the tail enabled the Nomads, with 10 men, to gain a draw, one wicket in hand and 85 runs adrift of our score.

One good spinner (as opposed to the match manager’s flat pies) would probably have won the match for us. But this was a strong showing, with top-drawer performances from Abeed and Hugo, and useful contributions from the rest of the team.

My thanks to all those who played, and to the President for bringing wine. The Nomads would like to play the fixture again next year, when it is to be hoped we can play on the First XI square from Ball One!

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Frogs vs Wimbledon CC

Venue: Church Road

Date: 22nd June

Result: Frogs lose by 11 runs.

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Frogs vs St Georges XI

Venue: St Georges College, Weybridge.

Date: 4th May

Result: Match Drawn

St. George’s    258 for 4 dec

Frogs               212 for 9                     (McIver 117)

Despite eleventh hour dropouts and a determined attempt by the weather in the early hours to wash the game out, a full day’s play was enjoyed, with any of three results possible up until the last half dozen overs.

For the second year running the Frogs lost the toss, and the College elected to bat first. And for the second year running, the Frogs allowed the College to amass 258 runs for the loss of too few wickets, and without putting them under anywhere near enough pressure. Against a side boasting two under 15s, a clutch of colts, and an average age comfortably in the teens, it was always going to be a challenge for the Frogs [average age over 50?] to contain the runs. However, despite the solid efforts made by all the bowlers, and with luck clearly not on our side, the fielding was disappointingly poor. 156 for 1 at lunch sadly reflected how poor the fielding had been, and containment was the name of the game thereafter.

In response however, the Frogs innings started well with Ian Rolland and Neil McIver compiling a solid 50 or so before tea was taken. After tea Neil’s flashing, and sometimes fortunate, blade was swung to great effect, as he moved swiftly on to a majestic ton. Ian’s solid support was replaced by the studious concentration of Richard Phillips, pushing the score to within reach of the target. At the 20 over mark, and with only two wickets down, needing 140 to win, the game was interestingly poised.

However, losing three swift wickets exposed the fleshy middle order which, in very English fashion, failed to rise to the challenge and alas, the momentum was lost.

Unlike last year, however, the tail wagged to sufficient extent to ensure we came away with an honourable draw and look forward to giving the College a stiffer examination next year.

Future match managers are asked to take note that Harry Rawlinson guarantees a minimum of 50 runs when opening the innings, and to score 0 if batting in the middle order !!!

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Frogs vs Old Cranleighans CC

Venue: Cranleigh School

Date: 29th June

Result: Match Abandoned.

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Frogs vs Privateers

Venue: Haileybury College

Date: 6th July

Result: Frogs lose by 105 runs.

Privateers        289-5 dec

Frogs               184                  (Rolland 43)

On a hot and sticky day at Haileybury, a new venue for this fixture, the Captain managed to lose the toss and the Frogs were asked to take the field – or at least 9 of us were, the other two joined our merry throng at 12:10 (late) and 12:30 (previously advised and thank you Hugh for playing at all) respectively. Our opening attack of Chick and Philips bowled well keeping the Privateers down to a miserly 16 runs from the first 12 overs which included the loss of Palmer. However, Sullivan and Ritchie began to find their way and it came as a bit of a surprise when Pugsley got Sullivan to edge a dolly catch to Thomas (who contrived to trip over an ant and made the moment into a brilliant tumbling effort) – lunch was taken at 119-2.

After lunch, Ritchie launched into the Frogs bowling, giving only one chance (on 99 off the Captain’s bowling!!!) until Chetwode managed to deceive him with a slower ball(??) in the next over (100 – 12 4s and 5 6s). At this stage Dery (65*) and Kelly (46) took over making our bowling attack look a bit ragged. The Privateers eventually declared at 289 for 5, probably 20 minutes and 40 runs too late to make a decent game of it as the pitch, although OK, was not a belter coming on to the bat.

Frogs, with the all Australian opening partnership of Rolland and Chapman, made steady progress until tea when we were 44 without loss. Our target by now had gone up to 8 an over which is pretty steep to maintain for 40 odd overs. The Privateers put on the pie throwers but then as soon as anyone hit a couple of fours put everyone out on the boundary. We continued to lose wickets steadily and despite a good knock from Rolland (43) and entertaining cameos from Thomas, Chetwode and Rodger we were all out for 184.

A bit disappointing but definitely a better venue than previously. My thanks to all who played.

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Frogs vs Old Wellingtonians CC

Venue: Wellington College.

Date: 13th July

Result: Frogs lose.

No report was received for this game – probably due more to embarrassment than lack of organisation or literary skills. In short, a par Frogs total was made a mockery of by an OW’s opener who laid waste to all about him. Marshall and Chick suffered most, although redemption was at hand immediately after tea when the aforementioned opener (who, incidentally normally bats well down the order) fell in the high 90’s. This made little difference to the outcome – it was just as well that there are no boundary boards at Wellington as the time taken to retrieve the many boundary shots delayed the finish to ensure a fig-leaf of respectability. (Note to future Match Managers – pick a full hand of bowlers. Note to bowlers – there are better places to ply your trade!)   

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Frogs vs MCC

Venue: Wellington College

Date: 18th July

Result: Match Drawn

MCC               178-4 dec

Frogs               158-7               (Norman 51)

Comments such as “the pitch was the winner”, “the pitch got the match it deserved” and some slightly more unsavoury views about the groundsman were voiced by both sides as the match ended in a low scoring draw shortly before 7.30 pm on a glorious evening at Wellington College.  

The weather for our special centenary fixture against the MCC was a bright summer’s day.   Unfortunately, it had rained during the course of the previous day/overnight and, for a reason known only to himself, the groundsman had failed to cover the wicket.   This meant that on a ground where the Frogs the previous Sunday had lost a high scoring match against the Old Wellingtonians in which the bat had dominated the ball we now found we had a match where the ball quite significantly dominated the bat albeit with a couple of exceptions.   The Frogs won the toss and, partly because of the state of the wicket (which looked, incorrectly, if it could only get better) and partly because the Frogs skipper fancied his chances in “chasing” with his reasonably strong batting line up, the MCC were inserted.   Chetwode and Turnbull opened the bowling.   It was immediately apparent that this was not going to be the most pleasant day for batsmen as the ball jumped significantly off a length wrapping knuckles/helmet grilles etc.   Both Turnbull and Chetwode exploited the conditions well and after an hour the MCC were 22 for 4 off 20 overs.   The main highlight being the fact that Turnbull had about one minute’s recovery between his overs as Chetwode rattled through his overs off his one pace run up!

However, if a batsman was prepared to play straight and be exceptionally patient, it was also not an easy pitch on which to take wickets.   Two MCC batsmen knuckled down, Messrs White and Lowe.   All bowlers continued to bowl well but with absolutely no fortune.   This was not aided by the immediate post lunch session seeing the Frogs drop White three times in a matter of five minutes.   This match report doesn’t wish to point out the names of the guilty (but they know who they are!).   White went on to score a well struck unbeaten 100;  Lowe reached 46 not out (having batted for 55 overs!) when the MCC Captain declared at 178 for 4 off 63 overs.  

The Frogs innings started in the same way as had the innings of the MCC.   Pascal (failing to make up for his earlier blemishes…oops), Rosenegk, Lawrence and Phillips all went cheaply.   Thomas struck some Thomas-like blows (in what he insisted on saying was the final innings of his career) until a sharp single (well, sharp for Thomas) led to a very badly strained/torn calf muscle and a premature, uncomfortable and unfitting end to his cricketing career (surely not the way to go out, Duncan?).   Martin joined Norman and together they managed to put on a quick fire 50 leaving the Frogs needing approximately 5 an over from their last 15 overs.   Martin then thumped a long hop to cover.   Norman (making up for his earlier blemish – oops again) made an impressive half century until he fell in the same way as Martin.   Walsh continued the good work but, in reality, on this pitch, anything over three an over would have been an achievement against some pretty impressive MCC spin bowling.   The Frogs ended up 20 runs short with seven wickets down.

A draw – honours even, was the right result.   The game was followed by a splendid barbecue to which the MCC players were invited as our guests.  

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Frogs vs Invitational XI

Venue: Wellington College

Date: 19th July

Result: Frogs lose by 95 runs.

Invitation XI               209-3 dec        (Strachan 68, Darbyshire 51)

Frogs                           114                  (Lowe 3 for 24, Lloyd 3 for 39)

Fine weather graced the second day of our centenary celebrations at Wellington College. We were unsure how many spectators to expect and in the event numbers were only some 20, fewer than hoped. However, there was plenty of food and liquid refreshment in the evening. Christoper Prain’s bar was a focal point for socialising and served generous measures of wine and cocktails. Those who did come to socialise and spectate enjoyed themselves.

The cricket was of course the other focal point  but here the pattern of unfolding play departed from the script, as Patrick Strachan’s invited side first took the slender Frogs bowling attack apart and then established a stranglehold over our batsmen, who it was acknowledged should have done better.

We had made special effort to attract former Frogs to play and it was splendid to see Richard Fortin behind the stumps, David Foster turning over a slightly lower arm, Rick Gubbins hitting 4’s and 6’s where he left off at our 90th, Brian O’Gorman wheeling away, the Bomber resplendent in Swantonesque hat, David Fischel striking the call elegantly on the up, Richard Bray continuing his comeback, with Jonathan Turnbull making a welcome reappearance – his second in two days.

Unfortunately there is not a great deal one can say about the cricket, so one sided was it but there were moments to savour. One such was a high hit into the covers where Bomber circled with increasing desperation under the ball which ultimately eluded his lunging grasp. However, shortly after he made no mistake, redeeming himself by holding a swirling catch that was nearly as tricky as the one he missed.

My thanks to Patrick Strachan for bringing what turned out to be a match winning side, to Jonathan Turnbull for making all the arrangements with Wellington, to Christopher Prain for the loan of his bar, and to Wellington for allowing us to hire the ground, which contributed a fine pitch and venue for our celebrations.

The teams were:

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Frogs vs Stowe Templars CC

Venue: Stowe School

Date: 20th July

Result: Frogs win by 3 wickets.

Stowe Templars           284-7 (dec)      (Trevor 6 for 116)

Frogs                           285-7               (Precious 104*, Trevor 66*)

Having been graciously invited to field after full English breakfasts in the School Common Room, the Frogs prospered early on under a heavenly sky, occasionally riven by Red Arrows fly-pasts.....our centenary?, or perhaps that noisy car race nearby? Matt Trevor, recruited at shortish notice from the Leicestershire Gents, ran in hard and bowled quickly and straight - he clean bowled four of the first five Templar batsmen, and with the hosts struggling at 50 for 5, the skipper, perhaps softened by the douceurs of life in Rome, took his thumb off the windpipe and introduced some less whirlwind bowlers. What he hadn't quite anticipated was a sixth wicket partnership of over 220, and a declaration at 284 for 7 off a mere 42 overs. The Frogs did not bowl badly - Mark Precious in particular supporting Matt with thoughtful seam bowling, but we were up against two skilled batsmen in festive frame of mind, and a very fast outfield. Matt finished with 6 for 116 - a very big-hearted guest performance.

The reply began steadily, with Richard Bray clipping an assured 26, but all too soon some rash strokes had holed us beneath the water-line, and we wallowed, Templar-like, at 60 for 5. It took some lusty blows from Freddie Jones (38) to show that all was not gloom, but it was when Matt, batting at number nine, joined Mark that the game took off. Matt eschewed the orthodoxy of the slogging quickie and batted just as straight as he had bowled, while at the other end Mark played with the sureness of a hockey international's eye, combined with quick feet and proper cricket shots. Theirs was the second partnership of the day over 150, and carried us home to a marvellous win, with Matt on 66 and Mark deservedly on 104.

It was heartening on a day with grand prix traffic that both sides paraded the full XI by 11:15, and we were all rewarded with a superb day's cricket.

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Frogs vs Hurlingham

Venue: Hurlingham 

Date: 26th July

Result: Match abandoned due to rain.

Hurlingham     255                  (Whitmore 5 for 62)

Frogs                 86-1               (Baker 63*)

Although the match had to be abandoned due to rain after tea, the Frogs can take much credit for their performance and the day’s activities are worthy of a few comments.

Toss: Hurlingham won and decided to bat

Charlie Whitmore’s return from New York was warmly received by the skipper (it’s always good to pitch your quickie against some of his old friends!) and duly delivered his first of a great 5 wicket haul by trapping C Stebbings LBW for 4 (14 -1). T Cockcroft and S Morris were always going to be a big danger to any bowling attack, let alone within the confines of the Hurlingham ground. Anything loose was punished and with no real chances being given they built a partnership worth 168. S Morris on his debut for Hurlingham scored a fine century and then the Whitmore magic lulled him into playing a loose shot into Howard Chick’s battered hands (Howard suffered a thumb smashing blow from a Cockcroft “rocket” off his own bowling that really must have hurt and probably still hurts now). Cockcoft looked set for another ton but an optimistic “Yes” from J Chapman and fine fielding from Steve Walsh and Ian Rolland sent Tim back to the shed, run out on 99. At the time (216 – 3) The Hurlingham looked set for a 300+ score with time, wickets and talent to come.

There then followed the most enjoyable Frogs fielding session that I can remember and certainly a most enjoyable skippering experience. The remaining 7 wickets were taken for only 39 runs. The post lunch strategy of Keith Rodger to pin them down with the seamers sharing the other end was Plan A. I did expect to have to use more than two seamers but the boys delivered the goods and wrapped up the innings and followed the script to the letter. Keith bowled brilliantly 10–1-23–2 and never allowed them to get settled. Charlie kept charging in with good pace and was rewarded with final figures of 15-3-62-5. Andy Marshall was also rewarded for his fine efforts removing the danger man Robb for only 7.

High spirited and keen to chase a modest 255, Danny Baker did not hang about. He smashed 63 off 44 balls (7 fours and 4 sixes). Richard Williams got one of those  deliveries that we all hate, lifting off a length , taking the glove and being caught well by second slip diving forward - no luck for him ! Paul Dolman used good footwork and timing to maintain our run a ball run rate but as the rain started it looked unlikely we would get the opportunity to return post tea to get the remaining 170.  We enjoyed a lovely tea and banter with the Hurlingham guys and called it a day.

The rain robbed us of a good result, I am confident we would have got the runs and victory would have tasted sweet…………

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Frogs vs Adastrians

Venue: Vine Lane

Date: 10th August

Result: Match Drawn

Frogs                           301-5 dec        (Ward 130, Baker 61)

Adastrians                   269-6              

For the second year in a row the Frogs made 300 and were then unable to bowl the Adastrians out. Had the match manager been tempted to field first and chase a target, such thoughts would have been, and were, quickly dispelled by a glance at the players exhibiting signs of heat stroke before play even began. It was the hottest day of the year, or apparently any other year – it was the day temperatures reached 100° F at nearby Heathrow and elsewhere. The Frogs batted on winning the toss, with much relief.

A brisk start by Baker and Darbyshire stalled when two wickets fell suddenly. Baker and Ward then showed a liking for the bowling in putting on over 100 before Dan Baker was out for an adventurous 61. From that point Duncan Ward dominated the attack, supported by Owen Williams and Nick Rayner (31*). As his score mounted so did the energy sapping heat, and Duncan did his best to conserve energy by hitting boundaries or walking singles. However, his partners ensured he had to run some twos and even one three. Duncan’s century was a fine innings and allowed a declaration before 3.30.

The Adastrians also got away to a good start and it took a reluctant Nick Rayner to make a double breakthrough – old bowlers never really lose the knack do they? However, Nick eventually melted in the heat and Howard Chick and Richard Phillips plugged away and deservedly picked up a couple of wickets each. At 197-6 a win looked likely but the Vine Lane pitch is too good to allow batting collapses unless the batsmen collude in their dismissal. We lacked a decent spinner and the Adastrians main rungetter could not make up his mind whether he was really going for the runs, although he put the bad ball away well enough. He was also crucially missed off a steepler when several fielders converged too late on the dropping ball.

And so a high scoring game ended slightly tamely it will be remembered for the soaring temperature and Duncan Ward’s century.

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Frogs vs Gents of Worcester CC

Venue: Malvern College

Date: 24th August

Result: Frogs win by 4 wickets.

Gents of Worcester     74         (Simpkin 5 for 18 (inc hat-trick), Green 3 for 9)

Frogs                           75-6

A good start to the Tour with a win that was far more convincing than 4 wickets. The Frogs had managed to keep 7 of the team from the previous year, and a couple of local guests via Danny Baker made up the numbers. The Frogs were in tremendous form with the ball, having won the toss, and Tom Green and Brian Simpkin bowled straight, with Green bowling particularly quick. Simpkin even bowled a hat-trick on his debut – not that the Frogs knew until a few minutes later due to an over separating the wickets. The third dismissal came from an edge hitting the keeper Pascal, who was standing up, on the knee and lobbing to first slip! Treagus also bowled well and at 33-9 the game looked over. However a last wicket stand of 41 was slightly frustrating, but at least saw the game through to lunch.

The Frogs obviously thought that the runs would easily be knocked off, but wickets fell at regular intervals to the slow bowlers, with Hawk bowling a tremendous spell of 11 overs for 7 runs. However, Tom Green decided enough was enough and hit a few hefty blows to end the game, just as the skipper had decided he’d better put his pads on!

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Frogs vs Exmouth CC

Venue: Exmouth

Date: 25th August

Result: Frogs win b 6 wickets.

Exmouth         142                  (Chick 4 for 27, Bowles 3 for 26)

Frogs               143-4

Another great win for the Frogs at this inaugural fixture at the Wright brothers’ home ground. A glorious sunny day on a fantastic ground by the beach surrounded by 100 cars – unfortunately most of the occupants were on the beach! Again, the Frogs bowling and fielding was top notch and a very similar scenario to the day before with Exmouth recovering from 44-7. Although the game was meant to be a 45 over game, this was irrelevant. Tom Green again bowled quickly, Lloyd Bowles demonstrated that he has the best slower ball in world cricket, and Howard Chick proved that he could bowl straight! All this with only 10 players, as Richard Lawrence had pulled out of the game unwell.

The Frogs had no real problems chasing the target, with Tom Wright enjoying his knock against his home team, until the home umpire got his revenge with a shocking decision (which most people found hysterical!). Keith Rodger, playing as a pinch hitting batsman decided that the Boycott approach was better and showed “grit” in his innings of 34. Lloyd Bowles then wrapped up the match with a couple of 6’s. A very enjoyable day.

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Frogs vs Devon Dumplings

Venue: Exeter CC

Date: 26th August

Result: Frogs win by 3 wickets.

Devon Dumplings       260-5 dec

Frogs                           261-7               (J Lawrence 85, Pascal 72, Mason 53)

A great victory chasing 260 at over 5 an over. The Dumplings had first knock on a track that looked suspicious, but actually played very well. An early success for Tom Green was followed by good batting from all of the Dumplings batsmen. Keith Rodger bowled a very tidy spell, and there were good efforts from Tom Wright and guest Alex Gardner.

The Frogs were going to need a good start to chase such a big total and sure enough Thierry Pascal laid into the opening bowling, as he and John Lawrence put on 100 for the first wicket in no time. James Mason took over the mantle and the Frogs were keeping up with the run rate all of the way through the innings. However, as the final few overs of the final 20 approached a few nerves took over, and the Frogs lost 5 wickets for about 15 runs. However, Richard Lawrence showed a wise head and steered us home, with Rodger hitting his first ball for 4 with three balls of the final over remaining.

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Frogs vs North Devon CC

Venue: Instow

Date: 27th August

Result: Frogs win by 97 runs.

Frogs               268-3 dec        (R Lawrence 135, Walsh 69*, Wright 49)

North Devon   171                  (Rodger 5 for 41)

A fourth win on the trot for the rampaging Frogs! The Frogs were tremendous and slightly brutal to the Devon attack, which was very young. Tom Wright played a good knock, but Richard Lawrence, having taken 12 balls to get off the mark, proceeded to smash the ball to all parts. He took a further 24 balls to reach his half-century. He made his maiden Frogs hundred soon after, finely supported by Steve Walsh, who also looked in great form. The Frogs were forced to declare after only 39 overs!

The Dumplings got off to a good start and in fact were 110 before losing their first wicket. However, once Steve Walsh had induced a run out, the remainder of the Dumplings were skittled by Rodger’s accurate bowling. Only Simon Wright, lent to the Dumplings by the Frogs, stuck around and took great pleasure in hitting his brother around the ground. However he soon ran out of partners, Pascal getting off his sick bed as a substitute fielder to take the final catch at short leg.

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Frogs vs Somerset Stragglers CC

Venue: Taunton

Date: 28th August

Result: Frogs lose by 5 wickets.

Frogs                           136

Somerset Stragglers    137-5

The Frogs left Bampton without the suffering Tour manager/skipper as he was still feeling the worse for wear with his Asian ‘flu. The drive to Taunton gave the stand-in skipper a chance to ponder how to approach the match. For the last few years this match has become a non-event for the Frogs, and as such, at the beginning of the Tour this was being billed by the tourists as ‘the big one’. However, as always, on the fifth day of the Tour, players are carrying injuries or just dead from exhaustion.

Having reached the ground (a new one for us Frogs) the pitch was inspected and was found to have crazy paving running all over it (not unlike a 5^th day of a Test at Trent Bridge). After having held discussions with the President, it was decided that he’d captain the Frogs side for the day and having lost the toss decided that the pitch would only get worse, so we’d have a bat on it.

The Frogs openers were soon back in the pavilion. The new ball moving off the pitch was proving to be a challenge for the Frogs batsmen, however both James Mason and Marc Williams looked comfortable, until both were undone by a seaming ball. Tom Green then entered the fray and looked comfortable before being bowled for 25. As the ball grew older, wickets became harder for the Stragglers. Patrick Strachan did just what was required when he reached the crease, hanging around and nudging the ball around. Lloyd Bowles then came in and looked good until he went for one shot too many and he departed on 10. Then Richard Lawrence came in to bat. Having received the “Brian of Bampton” award the previous evening he proceeded to smack the bowling of a 12 year old all over the place in a short cameo of 15. Ed Bray then went in and scored a very good unbeaten 17 as wickets at the other end fell slowly. Frogs all out for 136, a low score, but it had been posted on a very difficult wicket. As this total was posted, the 5^th day of the Tour’s Bowls Championship took place, with Marc Williams taking victory for the second time on Tour, closely followed by Green.

The Frogs then took to the field, opening with the pace of Green and guile of Bowles. Runs were difficult to come by as the Frogs attacked from the off. With two slips and a gulley and the ball flying through to Mason past the outside edge it was clear they would soon be in business. The surprise was that it took 5 overs, when the Stragglers opener edged Bowles and Williams took a fine tumbling catch at second slip. Stragglers no.2 was then bowled by Green before the no’s. 3 and 4 closely followed off the bowling of Bowles, the first of which was a fine catch by Green at short mid-off - although I’m not sure Tom even saw it coming! It was now 27-4 and the Frogs were looking strong, however the Stragglers skipper entered the fray and everything changed. He took control and looked to have all the time he needed as the bowlers tired. Ed Bray took a fifth wicket for the Frogs but the Stragglers knocked off the runs with ease, finishing on 137-5.

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Frogs vs Wiltshire Queries CC

Venue: Tidworth

Date: 29th August

Result: Match Drawn.

Frogs                           196-7 dec        (R Bray 77)

Wiltshire Queries        146-7

The Frogs moved onto Tidworth on a wet and gloomy Friday morning and prospects weren’t looking much brighter for the team. With skipper Pascal absent through illness and back in London, the Frogs were down to just 9 men, and a few were injured or very tired.

Having discussed the toss with the opposing skipper, it was decided that the Frogs would (as is tradition) bat first, on a pitch that had been relatively well covered against the elements. The match got underway with the Brays (Senior and Junior) opening the batting. Although the opposition opening attack was keeping runs to a minimum, no wickets fell before lunch. After lunch runs came slightly easier before the partnership was broken after 109 runs, as Ed Bray was dismissed for 21. His father quickly followed for a fine 77 before wickets and runs flowed quickly. Richard Lawrence went for 5, Norman Dugdale 8 and Tom Green 2 - all fell too quickly for the captain’s liking. Marc Williams then went in and hit his first ball for 6 (to the longest boundary!) before blocking the good ball and spanking the bad ball. Brian Coughtrie then joined him at the crease and ably held one end up. Williams was dismissed for 16, which meant that Keith Rodger entered the game hitting two 6’s in a fine cameo of 20. Frogs finally declared on 196 for 7 off of 58 overs. This was possibly slightly too long considering the interruptions for rain, but was necessary as it would be difficult to defend with just nine fielders.

Despite being without opening bowler Green through injury the Frogs attacked the Queries batsmen from the start - a slip and a gulley meant that just five players would be saving runs. This tactic soon paid off, as Williams took yet another fine slip catch to dismiss the Queries opener off of the bowling of Coughtrie. The Queries struggled to score runs as the ball seamed around off the bowling of Coughtrie and Ed Bray. Bray took two wickets in his seven over spell, dismissing the Queries no’s. 2 and 4 in quick succession. In between this a fine run out meant that the “nine men” Frogs had the Queries in trouble at 4 down with less than 50 on the board. However, as always in this fixture, just as the Frogs look likely to find victory, in comes a Queries batsman who hangs around and ruins the party. This came in the form of the Queries no. 5, who played very well for an unbeaten 51. At the other end wickets slowly fell, as Westbrook came on and worked his magic. Picking up two wickets quickly it looked as though victory could be obtained but in came their no. 8 who stood firm against the attack of Westbrook and Rodger before being stumped from the last ball of the match. Queries 50 runs short, when had they gone for it more at the start could possibly have won it. However, this was a fine performance from the nine men Frogs, if only we’d had the extra two players…….

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Frogs vs Hampstead CC

Venue: Lymington Road

Date: 7th September 

Result: Match Drawn.

Hampstead were confident.  Their first and second elevens had both won their league competitions.  They fielded a strong team which included their coach, Peter Thomson, who decided to bat after winning the toss.  Cranes towered over the ground – from a building site near the main street.  Despite water on the crease, the track, though well used, looked good.

The legendary combination of Marshall and Walsh opened for the Frogs.  In the first over Rolland spilled a leg side snick off Marshall – whose afternoon, and wicket tally for the season did not improve despite the fact that he bowled superbly to his field. Walsh also hit the spot in his first over.  Two snicks resulted in two catches behind the stumps.  R. Sharma and Plumbley were back in the pavilion with identical stats. In the second over of the day the Frogs were thinking that it had been a good toss to lose.

Walsh continued to bowl well and went on to take two more wickets in his 12 over spell.  His third was a very good caught and bowled where he launched himself to his right to hold a sharp catch off Carter.  He tried to repeat the feat a couple of overs later when he threw himself horizontally across the pitch in a desperate attempt to take another caught and bowled – only to hit his head on the way down after getting his fingertips to the ball.  This was the first of the day’s injuries.  Steve was shaken but continued on and later took his fourth wicket, a plumb lbw as he forced Welsh on 24, who was threatening to cut loose, onto the back foot. 

Precious replaced Marshall and settled into a groove quickly. He moved a few away nicely and completed 5 tidy overs.  Phillips and Rodger came on for a couple of overs each before lunch.  Keith opened his account quickly by bowling Hornsby for 17. 

The Frogs went to lunch having taken 5 wickets.  Hampstead were slightly subdued but S. Sharma was batting well and they had 2 first XI batsmen still to come.

Phillips and Rodger continued the attack after lunch.  Richard picked up two quick wickets, Berks lbw for 9, and Drillsman bowled for 4. Then Keith picked up the prize wicket of Sharma, clean bowled for 74.  Peter Thomson, who opens the batting for the first 11, ran out of partners as Phillips and Rodger picked up another wicket each to mop up the tail.

Hampstead were all out for 184 – before 3.30.  It had been one of the best bowling performances by the Frogs for the season.  And, despite a couple of “sitters” that were grassed, the tight ground fielding had kept pressure on the batsmen.  Walsh took the figures with 12-3-42-4.  He was ably supported by the aggressive Phillips with 11-0-63-3 and the economical Rodger with 8.4-1-24-3.

Not having regular openers in the team, Boasman and Brogden rose to the challenge.  After Boasman was bowled, Jones came to the crease. As the innings unfolded, Freddie, who is inclined to go for his shots, was to witness a deal of activity at the other end of the track that required him to play more carefully than normal.  It was important for the team that he keep his head and his wicket. 

Runs were difficult to come by. Hampstead’s opening bowlers, Welsh and Rendell were giving nothing away. After being tied down for a few overs, Brogden decided to take the attack to Rendell, Hampstead’s left arm quick who was moving the ball across the right handers and occasionally getting one to bounce. (It was rumoured that he hailed from the Middlesex ground staff). Brogden played a confident pull just behind square for 4, which was followed by a short ball which flew over his head.  At this stage, it appeared that Rendell might not have been tutored in the etiquette of Sunday cricket.  In the next over from Rendell, Brogden tried a similar stroke only to get a top edge.  The ball flew into his upper lip and Sean collapsed onto his stumps.  He regained his feet but unfortunately, he had sustained a nasty cut which required stitches so he had to retire hurt.  True to the spirit of Sunday cricket, Hampstead did not appeal.  Sean’s 11  was recorded in red ink.

The sight of a batsman dripping blood reminded the players of the dangers of the game. While Andy Boasman took Sean to A&E, Frogs batsmen (most have never worn a helmet), scoured the dressing room for “lids”, which were kindly supplied by the Hampstead players.  Walsh entered the fray but returned soon after having been given out lbw.  The innings was looking a little unsteady. When Phillips was bowled, the wheels were in danger of coming off.  The Frogs were 30 for 3, which was effectively 4, because Sean would take no further part in the match.  Still needing 150, we were facing some difficult bowling and we had not been able to put a partnership together.  At tea, Freddie was still there with Mark Precious. It was the Frogs turn to be subdued. 

Jones and Precious started confidently after tea but unfortunately Mark, when on 14, went to a catch in the covers and Freddie on 10, followed shortly after to the catch of the day - a low left handed catch at second slip.  This left us effectively, 57 for 6, with a lot to be done to avoid a drubbing. 

Chalk, the tender-kneed number 8, joined the President, who had started well.  This was a poignant partnership. Chalk was returning from reconstructive knee surgery, uncertain as to whether his pins would hold out.  This innings was a test, and would influence his cricketing future. By his standards, Prain had not had a good season with the bat and was in need of a good innings, not only to save the match but also to restore his confidence for the following season. 

In keeping with the tone of the match, the partnership was not without its own moments of drama.  Chalk had been batting well – if a little cautiously, because of his recent op.  Facing one delivery he had to readjust his stance quickly as the ball came back into him.  The Frogs watched nervously from the sidelines as for a moment it appeared as though another Frog might have to retire hurt.  However, after a few stretches, Richard was able to continue.  Just as well he did.  A succession of off drives, including three fours in one over off the Aussie Thomson brought the crowd to its feet.  For the first time since the innings began, the Frogs dared to think that they might be able to win. As the last 20 overs began, the sky became dark, the Test at the Oval was called off for bad light and the Frogs needed just over 90.

The splendid partnership continued with good running and some adventurous hitting.  Prain and Chalk got the Frogs to within striking distance.  They had taken the fight to Hampstead who were getting worried.  To stem the run flow Thomson brought Rendell back on and in this spell he bowled very tightly. Graham and Richard were forced to defend against him and try to attack at the other end.  When the President finally fell for 25, Richard and he had built a partnership of 83 – more than double the next best partnership of the day and by far the best 7^th wicket partnership of the season (or probably much longer). By the time Rolland was bowled by Welsh the task had become too difficult.  Marshall defended soundly to the close and with Chalk on 57 not out Frogs finished on 160 for 8.   It was an eventful and memorable afternoon.

Postscript:

Brogden recovered in time for the Centenary dinner and has returned to opening.

Marshall’s luck has changed.  He has started the new season with some good hauls.

Jones has returned to his flamboyant ways with the bat – but he is holding his catches.

The President looks in fine touch in the new season.

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Frogs vs Ashtead

Venue: Ashtead

Date: 14th September

Result: Frogs win.

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Frogs vs Cross Arrows CC

Venue: Lords

Date: 22nd September

Result: Match Abandoned due to rain.

Cross Arrows              262-6 (dec)

Frogs                             15-0

After months of sunshine and dusty tracks, the Frogs arrived at a damp and overcast Lord’s with not much confidence in a game. However, at 11.00am the Frogs were duly sent into the field having lost the toss. The Cross Arrows openers struggled against the tight bowling of Toby Briggs, but anything off-line from Lloyd Bowles tended to be hit to the boundary. As is typical on the Nursery Ground, runs are either in singles or boundaries, and therefore keeping a run rate under control is difficult. However, the Frogs never allowed the Cross Arrows to get on top, despite a lack of wickets. Mike Chetwode bowled a fine spell of accurate away swingers, bowling Clive Radley with one that cut back, and then forcing an edge to second slip. Keith Rodger and David Lawrence also bowled tightly and the Cross Arrows were never going at more than 4 an over. With the Frogs rattling through their overs, including 45 before lunch, the Cross Arrows were forced into an early declaration after 60 overs. However, the weather was turning nasty and by the time the Frogs openers Pascal and Hylton arrived at the crease the rain had begun. They managed to fend off 5 good overs before the heavens opened and the match was doomed. Hylton did manage in that time to deposit one ball over the hospitality units for 6.

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