Reports & Scorecards 2022
Leading Performances
Batting
K Heigl 131* vs Stowe Templars
A Carson 125 vs Hurlingham
R Lawrence 89 vs Maidenhead and Bray CC
Vaja 85 vs Maidenhead and Bray CC
O Marshall 85 vs The John Lyon School
S Slabbert 81* vs Old Cranleighans
T Pascal 80 vs Hurlingham
T Pascal 79 vs The John Lyon School
R Lawrence 75 vs Stowe Templars
T McLeod 73 vs Old Cranleighans
A Carson 65 vs OU Authentics
A Sykes 54 vs Harefield
J De Bhal 51 vs SOA
Bowling
N Trivedi 6-46 vs Stowe Templars
A Marshall 4-59 vs Harefield
O Marshall 4-57 vs Old Cranleighans
O Marshall 4-? Vs Devon Dumplings
K Bains 4-? Vs Devon Dumplings
T Marshall 3-14 vs Old Cranleighans
N Trivedi 3-34 vs Hurlingham
Gorton 3-37 vs Maidenhead and Bray CC
A Marshall 3-50 vs Hurlingham
S Hinds 3-67 vs SOA
Frogs vs Hurlingham Club
Venue: The Hurlingham Club
Date: Sunday 24th April
Result: Frogs win by 126 runs.
Reporting: Joe O'Gorman
Frogs 326-8 - A Carson 125, Pascal 80.
Hurlingham 200 all out - Trivedi 3-34, A Marshall 3-50.
The day dawned bright and beautiful on the first day of the Frogs' 2022 season. Although ruled out by ankle knack, your correspondent's mood had been lifted by the late call-up of Matt Ogden (strengthening both bowling and batting) and news that star opening batsman Andrew Carson had recovered from a bad tuna salad and would be fit to take the field (start time 1.30pm). Not even an early phone call from Neal Kanabar -- hoarse, apologetic, in Plymouth (ETA 2pm) -- could dampen the excitement.
The Frogs arrived at resplendent Hurlingham in dribs and drabs, sharing hugs and handshakes after a long winter apart. After a further update from Kanabar (ETA 3pm), eyes turned to the match manager as he hobbled out for the first toss of the year.
"Heads!"
"It's tails..."
Nevertheless, the home skipper generously offered the visitors the choice and so 15 minutes later the Frogs opening batsmen strode out to the middle. Hurlingham would soon regret their hospitality.
Pascal and Carson started fast and kept on going. Eleven boundaries were struck in the first five overs as both long and short boundaries were peppered. 50-0 off five became 109-0 off 13. Carson passed 50 off 29 balls, Pascal taking 47 for his own half-century. The partnership was not broken until the 20th over when Theirry was bowled for 80 with the score a whopping 166. Andy kept the hammer down and reached his first century of the year off just 60 deliveries (a personal best). Gray (32) and Ogden (25) in the engine room kept up the tempo, each going at better than a run a ball. Once Carson was finally dismissed, held at long off for a sparkling 125, the Frogs stuttered briefly as Lawton and McCarthy survived just three balls between them. Thankfully, Neerav Trivedi provided late impetus with 34 quickfire runs (three 4s, two 6s and one lost ball). Even Neal Kanabar (arrival time 3.10pm) managed to get in on the act, finishing 7*(3). The Frogs had posted an imposing -- but chaseable -- 326-8 from their 40 overs.
Walsh (8-1-36-0) took the first new ball of the year, bowling tidily to stop Hurlingham getting the fast start they would need. At the other end, Neerav (in front of proud parents) provided the fireworks with two scalps in his first over to hobble the top order. Cripps (32) and Kidwell (56), both erstwhile scourges of the Frogs, rebuilt the innings but were never allowed to wrest control from a disciplined bowling unit. Once both men were dismissed by the typically wily Marshall (8-0-50-3) the contest was effectively over. Young Richard Chalk -- part of the extensive Frogs entourage for the day -- even felt comfortable enough to catch forty winks in the late evening sun. Kanabar (1-0-11-0) briefly threatened to make things interesting, but Ogden (7-1-19-1) and Lawton (8-0-47-2) were less accommodating. Trivedi (8-1-34-3) claimed the final wicket and the Frogs were victorious by 126 runs. As complete a performance as one could hope for to kickstart the season.
Our gracious thanks to our hosts, to Carol for scoring, to Ned for umpiring (on an excellent Frogs debut) and to friends, family and injured Frogs for coming along to support. We hope to see you all again soon.
On to Amersham.
--Joe
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Frogs vs Amersham CC
Venue: Shardeloes
Date: Sunday 15th May
Result: Match Abandoned.
Reporting: Alex Gorton
Amersham 59-1.
Amid overcast skies, a Frogs side stacked with batting, wicket keepers and (shock horror) leg spinners lost the toss and were invited to field against a youthful Amersham side. Frogs were featuring two debutants in Jamie Daniel and Will Midwinter of Beaconsfield.
Unfortunately miscommunications had both umpires arriving late expecting a 1pm start and managing to take the field for the second over of the day. This was too late for Kieran, forced to take the new ball with Walshy in the absence of other options capable of bowling seam up, who was denied a wicket in the first over after the Amersham opener chased a slightly wider one and got a healthy edge to Duncan behind the stumps, unheard by the stand in umpire with the batter not walking. At the change of over this was greeted with an “I can only apologise for that” from the other batter. Kieran and Walshy settled into their rhythm quickly and kept the pressure on as rain started to fall, whilst Kieran clean bowled the apologetic opener as the rain got heavier. Unfortunately after 16 overs, the rain was too heavy and the teams were forced from the field for over two hours with the score on 59/1.
On the eventual resumption, the Alex and Jog took the ball/bar of soap whilst Amersham started to hit out to make a game of it. Both bowled tidily in the five overs possible, with Alex picking up the Amersham skipper bowled through the gate going for a big drive, but the rain returned with a vengeance and the game was abandoned just after 4pm.
Thanks as always to Carol for scoring, Duncan for assistance in getting a great XI together for the day, and Michael Knox for umpiring.
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Frogs vs Stowe Templars CC
Venue: Stowe School
Date: Sunday 22nd May
Result: Draw
Reporting: Thierry Pascal
Frogs: 283-4 (57 overs) (Heigl 131*, Lawrence 75)
Stowe: 253-8 (49 overs) (Trevedi 6-46)
On a glorious May morning, the Frogs gathered in the beautiful surroundings of Stowe School looking to put on a strong display for a returning fixture. Having been advised that his senior opening bowler was stuck somewhere on the M40, the Frogs skipper was instructed to win the toss and bat on a pitch that looked pretty dead but with the knowledge that lots of runs had been scored on it recently.
The skipper strode out to open with Richard Lawrence but was soon back in the hutch after nicking behind. That allowed Kurt Heigl, our guest player from Melbourne, via Maidenhead and Bray, to get an early look in and to be reunited with his clubmate. They did not disappoint, adding 150 runs in the next 30 overs. Neither looked in any trouble, playing elegant shots around the ground, without ever seeming to get out of second gear. With lunch approaching, Richard from Bray re-enacted what the infamous Judge Richard Bray was fondly remembered for in a prior decade, finding a way to get out 5 minutes before lunch was served. It was somehow perfect!
After a sumptuous lunch, Heigl was joined by Ben Cowen, making his Frogs return after nearly 20 years. In floppy hat and his school pads from the 1990’s, he immediately was into his stride, although making his runs exclusively in the area between point and slip and behind square on the sweep. Runs continued at a good rate, with few if any chances given. Cowen was eventually dismissed, caught at second gully via the chest of gully, for a good 26. Unfortunately, our other Maidenhead and Bray guest player, Patrick Searing, did not trouble the scorers, and it was left to our all-rounder, Joe O’Gorman to join in the fun. He and Heigl added 80 runs in the next 12 overs, with Heigl reaching an unbeaten century on debut, before the declaration was called at 3.20pm after 57 overs. A very impressive batting display, but it was quickly recognized that taking 10 wickets was going to be tough on this pitch.
Neerav Trevedi and Jono Wright took the new ball and immediately managed to get a little more out of the pitch and through the air than the Stowe seamers, between them picking up three early wickets, all bowled. However, the Stowe middle-order were stacked with younger bucks who looked capable batsmen, and slowly they rebuilt the innings. Wright was replaced by O’Gorman for what would be a marathon 19 over unchanged spell. Steve Walsh and Andrew Marshall bowled tidily but without much threat as the new ball lost its gloss and runs became easier. A partnership of 180 put Stowe firmly on target as they entered the final 20 overs, even if they required 7 an over. However, cometh the hour cometh Big Trev! Bowling inswingers and leg cutters, he bowled 3 of the next 4 batsmen, with the other a tidy caught and bowled. O’Gorman had manfully battled away at the other end and was finally rewarded for his perseverance, after a few half-chances, with another victim bowled. As the number 10 walked in, the Frogs were notified that the Stowe skipper had left to catch a flight, therefore were down to their final pair with two overs to spare. Trevedi thought he had his 7th wicket, but the bails failed to come off after the ball had kissed the leg stump. Then O’Gorman nearly grabbed a diving caught and bowled chance, but the Stowe final pair managed to see out the last few balls and an honourable draw was the end result. A great game, with all three results possible entering the final few overs. It is good to have the match back on the fixture list, in a spectacular setting with mullet-haired schoolboys, expensive classic cars, polo horses, a blazered Dylan Jones, and National Trust visitors all adding to the many boundary views.
Frogs: Thierry Pascal (ct), Richard Lawrence, Kurt Heigl (guest), Ben Cowen, Patrick Searing (guest), Joe O’Gorman, Steve Walsh, Jono Wright, Neerav Trevedi, Andrew Marshall, Duncan Ellis (wk).
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Frogs vs Philanderers
Venue: Exning and Burwell CC
Date: Sunday 5th June
Result: Match Abandoned due to Rain.
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Frogs' vs The John Lyon School
Date: Monday 20th June
Result: Draw.
Reporting: Duncan Ellis.
Frogs 224-7 dec, John Lyon 203-2
O Marshall 85, Pascal 79.
This was a game of familiar and new. Familiar scorching weather for 2022 and familiar fantastic hospitality from the School. The new? Frogs debutants Mark Richards, Thilan Wijesinge and Nirav Jariwala. Also Frog, Jack Ellis, making a first appearance against The Frogs - playing for the School (Y10 to debut in the 1st XI for those that compare these things!). Each Frogs debutant has a few more miles on the clock than Jack; Mark via Cornwall and Worcester 2s and Tilly a Middlesex League stalwart of at least Finchley and Brentham if not more.
Availability was excellent and Owen Marshall led an XI selected on the day with the MM resting himself for a game the next day. The skip batted first. Frogs posted a strong 254/7 enabling them to make a very healthy declaration. The cornerstones of the innings being a first wicket partnership between Owen M and Thierry Pascal of 85 and 79 for the second wicket when the latter was joined by Mark Richards. The JLS "chat" was not at all quiet and didn't lack robustness.
JLS' reply was instantly attacked by Frogs' makeshift, but strong, seam attack of Neal Kanabar and Kieran Grey, the former picking up an early wicket to leave JLS at 24/1. The School fought back strongly with a second wicket stand of 102 from the Jariwala brothers, Kirthan making 104* and Anay (just 15 - year 10) a classy 34, and an unbroken 77 for the third wicket with JLS skipper Yash Patel scoring 31*. That left the School arguably with the better of the draw and having batted so well that they gave themselves a chance to win.
The school ended on 203/2, and the Frogs 7 man attack perhaps a little chastened that it had made limited impact on a surface that is traditionally unreliable to bat on. Perhaps the hot summer and the pitch was the winner in this game, as so often in the scorching 2022 season. Thanks to all who officiated (Ned and Carol for the Frogs), spectated and played. Thanks again to the School for once again being the usual fine hosts. Cheers all, Duncan Ellis.
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Frogs' vs St Georges College, Weybridge
Date: Wednesday 22nd June
Reporting: James Mason
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The Oxford Tour
Frogs' vs OU Authentics
The Oxford Tour
Tour Party: Marshall T (Tour manager), Trivedi (Tour assistant manager), Carson A, Carson C, Lawrence, McLeod, Grey, Allen, Marshall O, Kanabar, O’Gorman, Wright, Marshall A.
Day 1
The Frogs arrived at the University Parks ready and raring to set the record straight after a disappointing loss to the ‘Tics in 2021. With the wicket yet to be cut with 45 minutes till the start of play, there were initial suggestions that the skipper should bowl if they won the toss, but thankfully T Marshall used his reason and batted as the coin came down as tails, much to the opposition skipper (and occasional Frog) De Bhal’s dismay. It was agreed that the team batting first was capped at 70 overs for the first innings. Play started at 11am, and not a minute earlier (to make sure Andy Carson wasn’t dismissed before the start time), with Cars and Tom McLeod sent out to bat long.
Both openers seemed very comfortable against the ‘Tics’ seam attack, on a hard used wicket that didn’t offer too much lateral movement. Cars and T put on 61 for the first wicket, with the highlight of the first hour of play being Andy popping a rank long hop from opening bowler Pyman over the boundary rope. Unfortunately, in true Frogs fashion, once these two were dismissed, the rest of the top and middle order managed to gift the rest of the session to the ‘Tics. Frogs went from 61-0 to 75-5 before lunch, with spin twins Mingard and Musa doing the damage as they did in 2021. Of those dismissed, Rich, Neal, and skipper TMars all departed for single figures, with Tom being caught (for the second year in a row) by an incredible slip catch off the off spinner.
After lunch Kieran (24) and Callum Carson dug in, putting 49 on for the 6th wicket. Cal was the next wicket to depart for an excellent 37 from 118 balls which got the Frogs out of a hole dug by themselves. After Cal’s wicket, the Frogs tail put on just 6 more runs, as leg spinner Mingard cleaned up, taking 6-42 from 24 overs. The Frogs managed to keep the ‘Tics in the field for 64 overs, which the skipper believed was probably worth a couple of early wickets.
The ‘Tics then had circa 50 minutes to bat before tea on Day 1 which consisted of an excellent new ball partnership between Tom and Neerav. Big Trev was extremely unlucky throughout the course of the game to not pick up more wickets. During these 50 minutes he was able to work over the ‘Tics skipper De Bhal. With pressure rising in the field, and a lot of chirp from A Carson Esq., Trev enticed the edge to second slip, where Andrew made a complete mess of what was the most regulation slip catch seen for a long time. Trev deserved more. Despite this, the Frogs managed to make the breakthrough in the over before lunch thanks to Owen sliding one on with the arm to hit De Bhal adjacent to middle stump with his first ball of the day. The Frogs went into the tea break a lot happier, with the skipper overjoyed with the instant impact of his bowling change.
Owen finished the rest of his over after the tea break, only to be whipped off so the new ball wasn’t wasted on spin. Big Trev finally got the wicket he deserved, trapping Altman in front; followed by opener Barman being nicked off to C Carson at third slip by Tom. Cal found himself in the grabbers after Andy had self-evicted himself after his drop off Neerav – an excellent decision. Tom then worked over middle order batsman Job, enticing the edge to Kieran behind the stumps, leaving the ‘Tics 45-4. Forty overs of spin followed from O Marshall, JOG, GT and TMac, with both Owen and JOG taking 3 wickets each and GT bowling economically. Andy Carson atoned for his earlier sin by running out Ossman for 2. This wicket left OUCC 65-7. At the close of Day 1 the ‘Tics were 97-7, which was a testament to how well Frogs bowled in the afternoon and evening session. The Frogs strolled to the Cherwell Boathouse in an extremely chipper mood.
Jono Wright joined the Frogs, along with the customary 2 litre bottle of red, at an excellently organised dinner at the Cherwell Boathouse. Situated in the marquee on the River Cherwell, Andy Carson was awarded Elgar for his chirping in the slips followed by a dropped catch, a self-relegation out of the slips, and then his replacement taking a catch there the next over. Andy, as usual, managed to keep the table busy during the dinner by counting passing geese…more geese than runs scored by Neal Kanabar this season (82, that’s geese, not runs). Plenty of wine was consumed, with 10 of the Frogs XI seen leaving Hank bar at 3:30am, many of whom sampled the various food trucks on the way back to Wycliffe Hall. Callum Carson, who has since been described as one of the top 5% most inebriated men in Oxford that night, had two helpings of cheesy chips which no doubt helped fuel his antics the next day.
Day 2
The Frogs arrived again at the University Parks in dribs and drabs, some a bit worse for wear. After a couple of cold showers, the game resumed at 97-7 with Big Trev and Owen both bowling good spells. To be fair to the ‘Tics, they ran the Frogs ragged during the first hour, with Owen getting the only breakthrough at 119-8. With a few streaky boundaries and some good running, the ‘Tics were able to scramble into a first innings lead of 1, with there being some debate over whether the final wicket fell or whether there was a declaration. JOG had nicked off Alex Thomas to TMac at slip, with the ball falling comically short. AT simply walked off as if it had carried and that was that. Either way, ‘Tics led by 1 run.
Andy Carson and Rich Lawrence were sent out to open the innings, and they put on 57 for the first wicket in 17 overs. Both batted positively against some good spin bowling having cashed in against the new ball early on. Carson raced to 50 before being dismissed in the 60s with the score 132-3. Owen batted with intent in the meantime, getting to 41 before being caught. Kieran and TMac both added 25 each before the Frogs collapsed in search of quick runs. Skipper Marshall declared 207-9 from 53, with a lead of 206. This left the ‘Tics approximately 45 overs to bat, which seemed a generous declaration on a pitch that was getting flatter by the hour.
A quick burst from the seamers before tea saw Big Trev hit another shin in front of middle stump. The only other notable event pre-tea saw Andy Carson chase a ball to the cover boundary and belly dive to try and stop it. In a bundle the ball went for 4 and Andy felt a crunch in his shoulder. He managed to hide himself in the field until tea, and then rushed off to hospital in a sling. Here he was told that he’d damaged his ACJ ligament (thankfully not a dislocation), but the damage means a couple of months on the sideline. We wish Andy all the best and hope to see him back to full health for the Western Tour in August.
Post tea the Frogs took their second wicket, but the ‘Tics then put on 50 for the next wicket with a display of some fine shots and positive running. Tom McLeod was brought on to offer something different as the slow left armer, and this bowling change brought about the wicket of opening batsman Barman who fell just short of 50. This was the third time in the game that a bowling change had brought about a wicket (well done skip). As the last hour came around, the ‘Tics had to show some more intent to get anywhere near the Frogs’ total. With this in mind, the straight field was dropped onto the imaginary ring, where McLeod enticed another batsman to be caught at mid-on. 90-4.
What followed caused a stir in the Oxford ranks. Owen bowled the ball, which was hit back to him and he threw at the stumps at the keepers end where the batsman was just in his ground. During the appeal the ball was backed up by Callum Carson at cover, who picked it up and under-armed at the bowler’s end, where the non-striking batsman was wandering down the wicket (for some strange reason). The ball hit the stumps, the Frogs appealed, and the batsman was given out. What followed was a bizarre display of dissent from the dismissed batsman, with his bat thrown not once, but twice. The skipper Marshall was asked by the OUCC skipper if the appeal was going to be upheld, which it was, and the second bat throw aimed at the pavilion followed. Only one more wicket fell in the day, with the ‘Tics finishing 155-6 from 43 overs.
All in all, this was a vastly improved performance from last year, with the Frogs walking away with what they felt was a ‘winning draw’ on a flat wicket. Special mention to all the bowlers who toiled away on a wicket that didn’t offer them an abundance of assistance, especially Big Trev, who ground through 25 overs and only conceding 74 runs at an economy of just under 3. A valiant effort indeed.
I’d like to thank everyone for making themselves available and taking time off work to play. Additionally, we’d all like to thank Chris for standing as umpire, and Jono for organising another incredible dinner. Lastly we’d like to thank OUCC Authentics for their hospitality over the two days, as we look forward to next year.
Frogs' vs Oxford Downs CC
Venue: Oxford Downs CC
Date: Sunday 12th June
Result: Frogs win.
Reporting: Jono Wright (and Chat GPT)
In an exciting cricket match between the Frogs and their opponents, the Frogs batted first and put up a solid performance on the field. Kurt started the innings with great energy and determination, making a half-century before getting dismissed. However, their innings was not without its moments of drama. During the Frogs' innings, Alex Gorton injured himself while being clean bowled, attempting to hit the ball out of the ground. His teammates looked on in concern as he limped off the field.
Despite the early setback, the Frogs were able to recover thanks to an excellent partnership between Walshy and Jono. The two batsmen showed great resilience and skill as they put on a partnership of 97 runs, salvaging the innings for the Frogs. Jono, in particular, had a memorable innings as he scored his first half-century for the Frogs.
With their total looking healthy, the Frogs decided to declare their innings before Walshy and Jono could reach a century partnership, a move which has been questioned by some. It is hypothesised that Thierry was paralysed with uncertainty as he was perhaps not expecting his instructions to Walsh and Wright of “get to 37 overs” to be achieved. Oxford Down now had a challenging target of 218 to chase down, and they started their innings with high hopes.
However, Walshy was determined to make it a tough day for the opposition, ably supported by the luckless Jono who conceded only 12 runs from his 6 overs. Walshy bowled like a wizard and picked up five wickets, making it incredibly difficult for the opposition to score runs. The other Frogs' bowlers, too, were in great form, taking wickets at regular intervals and putting pressure on the opposition.
The game was not without moments of humour. As the match progressed, Gt, one of the Frogs bowlers, had a bit of a comical moment. He bowled a wide, which was called by the umpire. He then bowled another delivery, which was called even wider, much to the amusement of the crowd. Neal, one of the Frogs players, made an amusing comment about the string used to keep the bails on, comparing it to a cock ring, which had his teammates in stitches.
Frogs’ captain for the day, Thierry, was leading from the front, and he pulled off a stunning diving catch to take a wicket. However, in the process of taking the catch, he managed to break a finger, much to the concern of his teammates.
In the end, the Frogs emerged as the winners of the match, thanks to their solid batting performance and superb bowling. It was a fantastic team effort, with everyone contributing to the victory. The Frogs can take great pride in their performance and look forward to their next match with confidence. The match will be remembered not only for the exciting cricket but also for the drama and determination displayed by both teams.
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Frogs' vs South Oxfordshire Amateurs
Venue: University College & Corpus Christi College Sports Ground, Oxford
Date: Sunday 14th July
Result: Draw.
Reporting: Neal Kanabar
Frogs 202 for 7 dec, SOA 194 for 7
J de Bhal 51, S Hinds 3-67
The game of guests… With captain N Kanabar on managerial debut, selection for this fixture was a non-trivial exercise. With many Frogs unavailable for a plethora of reasons, the playing XI was an interesting mix of international recruits and part time members surrounding a core of Frog stalwarts.
The day began for some Frogs with a trip to Browns café in the covered market, with others attempting to make it and getting lost or deciding spending a day playing cricket with each other was more than enough in-person contact. Upon arriving at the ground, SOA chairman A Wildman kindly returned the sacred Frogs flag, which some monumental cock-up had been left at Oxford Downs earlier in the season. With the return of our pennant and (some) bellies full of greasy scran the air was filled with excitement, enthusiasm and a faint waft of repeated beans!
With a batting heavy Frogs side, Kanabar tossed off with the opposing captain to great climax. Messers de Bhal (51) and Marshall prepared themselves to face the opening attack of the Amateurs in what was traditionally considered as optimal batting conditions. Another belter of a day, as was customary in this part of the British summer, with the exception of actual green grass! The Frogs got off to a steady start, with some tidy bowling from the SOA front line, both batsmen struggled to find fluency. As the second change we’re called into action, Marshall’s (24) batting ability seemed to dissolve under the impressive control of the young SOA leg spinner and in a short while was cleaned up. With a solid foundation, the more aggressively minded Frogs had an opportunity to swing hard with positive intent. While the intent was there, unfortunately the execution wasn’t. Marner (1) swung very hard at a juicy full toss that unfortunately found the safe mitts of mid-off. Our young leg-spinner friend then clean bowls the set de Bhal (51) just after he reached his half-century. Things were looking shaky for the Frogs as guest Junaid Aziz and “old Frog, that hasn’t been seen in a while but whacked it” Daniel Baker found themselves fresh and at the crease. Mr Baker (0) did indeed whack it, straight to cover. Having gone from 70-0 to 75-4, the Frogs middle order had some rebuilding to do and no pair were better suited to the task than the incumbent Aziz and the incoming K Heigl. The two, hailing from San Francisco & Melbourne respectively put on an internationally spectacular 70run partnership before Aziz (48), was caught short of his half century. In comes guest Avi Karia, all the way from Dubai, and with some extravagant stroke play alongside the support of Heigl (43), Chalk (3) and Hinds (2) the Frogs declared on 202 after facing 49 overs.
After a veritable feast of curry, chilli, samosas, spring rolls, sausage rolls, bhajis, sandwiches and miscellaneous crunchy snacks. The slightly sluggish Frogs took the field. Skipper Kanabar (6-0-15) with the new rock, bowling in tandem with Hinds (11-3-67) the Frogs got off to a tidy start. In a great display of swing bowling, showing control and class this fierce opening attack restricted the SOA openers. With Hinds nicking off the opener into the safe hands of R Chalk in the cordon and having the number two batsmen caught at short cover by captain Kanabar a victory loomed. Unfortunately for the Frogs the hard hitting D Eaton & the SOA keeper came to the crease and decided to whack it to all parts! Smart decision from the skipper to whisk himself out of the attack and turn to spin! In comes the people’s hero T Allen (8-1-51) and guest A Karia (7-1-22). With some of the GT classic self beratement, Allen clean bowls the SOA keeper! Followed by A Karia doing the very same to his replacement. With the SOA team pinning their hopes on Mr Eaton, who was proving to be an evasive fly to the sharp tongue of the Frogs, skipper Kanabar turns to the semi-professional O Marshall (4-2-29) and prays there isn’t a meltdown on the horizon. After slog sweeping Marshall for about 50 runs D Eaton finally holes out to K Heigl in the deep! Game on! More wickets for the Frogs as Marshall grabs another scalp. The kiwi paceman Hinds returns to the attack and pairs fantastically with the skipper once more as the number 6 SOA batsmen is caught at long off by Kanabar. With some very tidy second spells from Hinds and A Karia the Frogs unfortunately could not take the last few wickets and the SOA captain and impressive young leg spinner held fast resulting in a very exciting and evenly fought draw!
A fantastic game with both teams playing hard competitive cricket, the excitement proved too much for one D Baker. In his adrenaline infused rush he managed to leave the ground and travel home without his clothes… Thanks to Mr A Wildman and the SOA side and a special thanks to the officials and scorers on the day!
Playing XI: N Kanabar (c), T Allen, D Baker, R Chalk, J De Bhal, K Heigl, H Marner (+), O Marshall, J Aziz (guest), S Hinds (guest), A Karia (guest)
Frogs' vs Old Cranleighans CC
Date: Sunday 17th July
Result: Frogs win by 7 wickets.
Reporting: Tom Marshall
OC's 225 - O Marshall 4-57, T Marshall 3-14.
Frogs 227-3 - Slabbert 81*, McLeod 73.
The Frogs arrived at Cranleigh school on the 17th July with a sense of optimism. The sun was shining, the wicket was flat, and there wasn’t a blade of grass on the outfield. The day started off well with skipper Marshall having to eject himself from the car on entry to the school to empty himself of his consumption from the previous night. The day got worse for Marshall as he lost the toss. The Frogs were in the field.
The innings didn’t start in the greatest fashion, with Big Trev’s opening spell being dismissed for 27 from 4 overs. Walshy, as usual, bowled an immaculate line and length, with balls being edged either side of the slips and gully. With the outfield being like glass, the balls that didn’t hit the fielders raced to the rope. With Walshy putting the pressure on up the hill, skipper Marshall brought himself on to reduce the rate, and in his first over got the breakthrough, with Malloy taking an excellent catch in the covers. TMars then took the second wicket shortly after, with Walshy finally getting the wicket he deserved with the score 54-3. Tom then took his third, with OUCC’s Job caught in the covers by Big Trev to reduce the OC’s to 68-4 after them being 48-0. Owen and GT were introduced into the game to take the pace off the ball. Owen bowled exceptionally well for the second season in a row, ending with figures of 4-57 from 12 overs. Owen broke a partnership of 66, which tested the Frogs’ resolve in the field. Kanabar and McLeod worked hard on the cover and midwicket boundaries off Owen and GT to reduce the flow of runs. GT finished with 1-44 from 9. TMac took the final wicket of the innings to bowl the OCs out for 225, which the Frogs felt was some 100 runs short of par on a flat wicket and lightening outfield.
The Frogs started their run chase positively, and despite losing Dan Malloy (who scored 140 the previous afternoon) with the score 20, McLeod raced to 50 from 43 balls. McLeod and Kanabar put on 50 for the second wicket, the latter scoring 21 before being caught. Slabs and McLeod then put on 60 for the third wicket before TMac was dismissed for 73 with the score 133-3. Chalky then joined Slabs at the wicket, who pushed the run chase into 4th and 5th gears. Slabs brought his 50 up from 44 balls, finishing on 81*. Chalky supported him excellently for 30*, with the Frogs chasing it in the 33rd over.
Thanks to everyone who suffered in the heat, as well as the OC’s for hosting us again.
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Frogs' vs Harefield CC
Date: Sunday 31st July
Result: Frogs lose by 4 wickets.
Reporting: Chris Lawton
Frogs 204-7 - Searing 44, Sykes 54.
Harefield 205-6 - A Marshall 4-59.
Frogs played Harefield on the last day of July on another hot day, with a number of familiar faces in the Harefield ranks, with 80% of the opposition having played at least a game for the Frogs over the previous few years. A 40 over game was agreed, and Frogs’ skipper Chris Lawton was delighted to win the toss and elected to bat.
Frogs started well with the bat, with Paddy Searing and the returning Alex Sykes opening the batting with a mixture of quick singles and strong blows to the boundary. Paddy fell just short of his half century for 44 to a tame pull to leave Frogs 89-1, but that only brought Ben Ward to the crease who hit a run a ball 56 batting at 3. Opener Sykes eventually fell for a well-made 54 and Ward fell shortly afterwards to leave Frogs 170-3 and eyeing a big total on a ground with a lightning outfield and shorter boundary on one side. Unfortunately Frogs weren’t able to kick on, with Kieran Grey and Alex Gorton both falling trying to hit 6s to the longest part of the ground, and Chris Lawton and Richard Chalk unable to get the ball off the square, Frogs limped to 204-7 from their 40 overs.
Frogs needed early wickets, and Neerav Trivedi opening the bowling couldn’t have wished for a better start, with Jonathan Croft opening the batting for Harefield guiding the first ball of the innings to the safe hands of Andy Marshall at first slip. Soon after, Neerav took a second, somehow managing to bowl Tom McLeod for 35 with a fantastic delivery. Unfortunately that was as good as it got for the Frogs, with Owen Marshall feeling in the mood for runs for Harefield, smashing a quick 86 from 65 balls, only succumbing when he misjudged a dance down the wicket to his father’s bowling and was stumped by Joe McCarthy. Owen had got Harefield well ahead of the rate, and the Frogs knew that only wickets would now help them win the game. Andy Marshall did his best to aid that effort with figures of 9.2-0-59-4, bowling well in tandem with Alex Gorton who was unlucky not to take a wicket with his leg spin going for 60 from his 10 overs, to reduce Harefield to 151-6 and Frogs in with a sniff. Sadly it wasn’t to be, and an excellent unbroken 7th wicket stand of 59 between Jordan McLeod and James Hamilton got Harefield over the line.
An excellent quality game, with both sides playing the game in a good spirit. The captain’s sincere thanks go to Carol for scoring the game, and Mark Jenkins for stepping in as umpire at the last minute. After the game both teams enjoyed a few beers together, as we watched the Lionesses beat Germany 2-1 to win the Women’s Euro 2022 final, so at least one result went the right way on the day!
Scorecard: https://harefield.play-cricket.com/website/results/5489600
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Frogs' vs Devon Dumplings
Date: Wednesday 3rd August
Result: Frogs lose by 27 runs.
Reporting: Neerav Trivedi
Dumplings 208 - O Marshall 4-?, Bains 4-?.
Frogs 208 - No notable contributions.
As the sun continued to shine during the English Summer, the Frogs stumbled upon a barren, straw-coloured outfield at Queen’s College to face the Devon Dumplings where not one blade of green grass could be seen in the outfield. Big Trev had assembled a side full of Ickenham CC talent and started poorly by losing the toss and bowling first. He opened the bowling with Ickenham’s overseas Sam Hinds and after the first 15 overs or so, neither bowler could make the breakthrough. This is largely because Neal shelled a dolly at gully after doing ‘rock, paper, scissors’ with Owen to see who could field there. Shortly after Trev took himself off, he managed to produce a run out by throwing it to the bowler’s end where Neal, on this occasion, was able to catch the ball and whip the bails off. 56-1.
On comes Kesh Bains making his Frogs debut who made the breakthrough. His clever variations of leg cutters and off cutters made inroads into the Dumplings batting leaving them 87-4. Chris Mingard replaced Kesh and the Oxford University leg spinner managed to produce a rank half tracker that was hit straight to Mid On in his first over. Meanwhile Neal was bowling some tidy off-spin at the other end making scoring hard work. He had bowled two maidens on the bounce, but the skipper whipped him off to give Owen the last over before lunch. First ball: down leg side; 4 runs. Second ball: down leg side, OUT. Owen had bowled their batter round his legs justifying the change in bowling. 135-6 at lunch.
Lunch was widely accepted as box office which a selection of chicken curry, chilli, veggie curry, samosa, bhajis, naan breads, tortilla chips and not to mention an array of cakes for dessert including toffee cheesecake.
Owen and Chris continued after lunch which Owen slowly chipping away to burgle a 4-fer. Kesh took the final wicket to also finish on 4-fer. The Frogs had bowled the Dumplings out for 208 and were feeling confident.
Dan Pope of Ickenham and John de Bahl of Oxford opened up and started carefully before JDB hit on straight to cover. Dan and Owen batted nicely until tea and Frogs were 80-1 and looking at victory. However, Owen’s LBW triggered a collapse. Despite some 20s from the middle order, they all came and went without contributing significantly. The Dumplings kept chipping away to the point where the Frogs were unfortunately bowled out for 182, falling 26 runs short. A disappointing chase to say the least.
Frogs: John de Bahl, Dan Pope, Owen Marshall, Sam Hinds, Harry Marner, Alex Sykes, Richard Chalk, Neal Kanabar, Chris Mingard, Kesh Bains, Neerav Trivedi
Frogs' vs Maidenhead and Bray CC
Date: Sunday 14th August
Result: Frogs win by 7 wickets.
Reporting: Tom Marshall
Dumplings 221 - Gorton 3-37.
Frogs 225-3 - Lawrence 89, Vaja 85.
The Frogs turned up to Bray on another scorcher of a day in the 2023 season. Sensibly, skipper Wilding lost the toss and the Frogs spent the first 40 overs in the field, which was largely uneventful. T Mars opened with Jono, who between them bowled the first 11 overs for 37 runs. Marshall bowling 5-3-3-1 and dismissing fellow UoB alumni Paddy for a turgid 14. Walshy followed, taking 2-46 in exactly how the reader would imagine. Unfortunately for the Frogs, it was a Sunday, so Kieran scored a quick 66 for Bray before being bowled by Gorts. Without waffling, the Frogs polished the rest of the M&B batting up for 221, using the full 40 overs. Wicket takers were T Mars (1), Walsh (2), John Child (2), Gorton (3), and Mabbutt (2).
After a healthy tea the Frogs flew out the blocks with Kanabar and Ridders taking the game to the bowlers. Kanabar continued his fine form with a 4 ball duck. Krish Vaja (85) and Rich (89) then put on 157 for the second wicket before T Mars (38*) and Wilding (2*) took the Frogs to a 7 wicket win inside of 34 overs.
Frogs: Wilding, Kanabar, Lawrence, Vaja, Marshall T, Gorton, Chalk, Mabbutt, Child, Wright, Walsh, Marshall A.