Our mid-table standing and won 5, lost 4 record tells the tale of our roller-coaster season, which scaled some epic heights and plumbed some pretty challenging depths.
All this could be expected from a team that boasted a mix of senior players for whom this was their last action as U13 in Freddie, Tristan, Arthur, Charlie and Oakley a number of newer players who will be stronger again next time round in Lenny, Umar, Harrison, Callum and Ben.
Big wins came against Locks Heath, Waterlooville and Sarisbury while we also prevailed in tighter affairs vs Hambledon and Petersfield. Our low point was the first game of the season vs Portsmouth and our loss to Fareham was comprehensive but we did sport a very young side in that one.
For runs we relied heavily on our opening bats, Freddie (244 runs - currently top of the aggregate lists) and Tristan (currently second in the list on 234 runs - for only once out!). Both boys recorded half centuries in our last game of the year. Arthur was always keen to run and retired on a couple of occasions and Lenny made regular contributions. Both Charlie and Umar retired once and Oakley was perhaps the most unlucky with a couple of close calls not going his way. Callum, Harrison and Ben all fronted up well and will be able to make good progress next season.
In the field Freddie was top wicket taker (6) with his seam up variety and Tristan (4) next in the list. Arthur too snaffled a wicket. Tristan and Arthur shared the keeping and in comparison to other keepers both were very close to the top of the list and the only ones I saw stand up to all comers. Charlie (2) often did the hard yards for us bowling at key bats and Lenny's (2) flight had a few in knots. When he played Umar bowled straight and was rewarded with a wicket. Oakley had a very commendable economy rate and helped us build pressure while Ben, Callum and Harrison all had good moments in their limited spells.
Well done to all who finish 13s here and good luck in the "big league" next time out. Next season will be a challenge without you but I'm sure we've the players to fill your boots!