The U9’s had another strong year this year, with the step up to hard ball cricket. If success was based on participation alone, having 69 boys all playing Tier 1 hard ball cricket should be celebrated as an incredible achievement and really sets the boys up well for further challenges down the line. Entering 6 teams across 3 divisions, all in Tier 1 as mentioned, results were more up and down this year with a 3rd place, two 4th places, two 5th places and a 6th place. But context has to be given as no other team in any league had more than one Tier 1 entry so we were constantly up against the best boys from opposing clubs. Everyone who played in the league games contributed to many an enjoyable evening and competitive game of cricket and we enjoyed a number of good wins against the strong opposition of Reigate Priory, Cranleigh, Epsom, Teddington and East Molesey. There was also more opportunity to take positives out of a defeat which will also stand the boys in good stead going forward.
This year we also entered an U9 team (The Eagles) into the U10 Tier 1 West division of the SJCC. 20 boys played at various times in this team and was a good test of their development playing normal cricket rules in a T20 game, against boys a year ahead of them in their cricketing development. They secured impressive victories against Chobham (twice) and Blackheath before being involved in a remarkable tie against Tilford when, after being bowled out inside 16 overs, bowled and fielded brilliantly to leave Tilford needing 5 off the last over with 2 wickets in hand. The first ball of the final over went for 4 before Dylan Narinesingh took back-to-back wickets to secure a tie. Brilliant!
A staggering 26 boys were successful in getting onto the Surrey CCC performance program, following the April “trials” this year. This is a remarkable effort and speaks volumes for the coaching set-up we have at the club, as well as the ability and dedication of the boys themselves. Hopefully those involved benefit from some good winter coaching with Surrey (and Esher), and those who were not successful this time around have access to a full winter program of coaching and a goal to aim for in April.
The other undoubted highlight was the 3 Esher CC tournaments held over the summer. All 3 tournaments saw Esher vs Esher in the final and some of the cricket on display was of a ridiculously high standard given their age and the fact that most were less than a year into hard ball cricket. They are long days (as I am sure the parents will concur…) but it’s so enjoyable watching them tackle a different format, enjoying themselves and playing with great commitment and sportsmanship. A big thank you must go to Duncan and the kitchen staff for putting on these events, they are a real highlight of the summer!
Thanks to Duncan and Lek; Sohail and the rest of the coaching team for giving me Sunday mornings off and to the regular army of parents who managed, scored, umpired and provided refreshments throughout the season, your efforts are greatly appreciated! – MH