Bidborough successfully beat Stonewall Park in a nail biting finish to go through to the Final for the Greensands. Needing a convincing win to secure enough bonus points to get through to the final, Bidborough managed to chase down the runs from the first innings only losing 2 wickets and securing a win with the formidable partnership between Michael Waller and Jonathan Shepherdson.
The season did not start well with the elected captain, Richard Larkin having to step down due to changes in his work commitments. With the early retirement and several injuries to a number of the senior players it looked like the 1st XI squad would be a little thin on the ground. The decision was taken to blood a number of the younger players in the club so that in a few years time Bidborough would be in a healthy position to win the league again and be in with a chance in The National Village knockout competition. 2013 was thus going to be a rebuilding year, a mid table learning experience that would be a launch pad for 2014 and future years to come. To finish second in the league then, and to have a winner takes all game against our fiercest rivals Penshurst in the last game of the season was more than we could have hoped for. An early exit from the National Village Knockout was expected and duly arrived at the hands of Linton Park, but the league form remained fairly consistent throughout the year. The standout batsmen was Charlie Harding who scored 738 runs at an average of 123 – an incredible effort at any level. His three hundreds were all undefeated and we are blessed to have such a talent at the top of the order. Mark Mitchell deservedly won player of the year – he didn’t score the most runs or take the most wickets but when the chips were down and we needed someone to stand up and perform Mitch always obliged. He scored his runs when they were most needed and always took the ‘big’ wickets. Dale Hillhouse won the bowler of the year and for someone of such a young age he has a very bright future ahead of him.
We were able to include several youngsters who hadn’t played 1st XI cricket before – Elliot and Jordan Heim both showed huge potential with the ball. Archie Wells bowled well when available and Jack Mauduit showed that he has a great eye and good pair of hands in the field. With the likes of Stu Pinchin and Jack Redden established at the top of the order the future does look bright for the club. We are aiming for a top two finish in the league again in 2014 but our real ambition and focus is on The National Village Knockout. It might not happen this year but we have a squad of players now that will allow us to challenge in this competition for the forseeable future and one day a final at Lords! The season culminated in the traditional Groombridge six-a-side tournament which under the youthful control of Dale and Dom Trett saw a famous victory over the hosts in the final. A valued and welcome piece of silverware that we will hopefully add to the 2014 season!
James Baldock
1st XI Captain
We must be positive despite the terrible weather since before Christmas. On the upside, the rain has stopped for now with the ground and square showing promise.
In 2013, a year of transition for the seniors, we were again runners up in the 1st Division. The 2nd XI held their own in the 4th Division with several Colts blooded and we won the Groombridge 6-a-side. The strength of the club is down to the continuous stream of good players the Colts section produces. Well done to all.
What we have achieved through the duration of 2013;
What are the clubs future plans for 2014…
Arrangements have been completed to use Leigh’s Cricket Ground for the Colts. We have 6 Colts sides, so the extra ground will be needed. One of the significant plans will be upgrading the practice facilities at the Rectory Drive entrance. We are also planning to extend and refurbish the Pavilion. It is our intention as a club not to stand still and all these intended improvements come at a cost. Therefore it is essential that our fundraising activities are supported by all. We have over 100 Colt members, whether they are your sons/daughters or grandchildren, the future of the club relies on the support from those who benefit from this generous gift.
Thanks must be extended to out sponsor Larrytech. We are truly grateful for the support and sponsorship. Finally, we wish the new village pub, The Kentish Hare, every success and pledge our ongoing support.
Doug Moore
Chairman
With the season now ended, all the Awards and Dinners complete we can all look back and reflect on another successful season. Thank you to all those who contributed to the website in the form of match reports, news and pictures which keeps the clubs communications fresh and engaging. Whilst we all rest out through the winter months stuffing ourselves with delicious turkey and christmas cheer may I encourage all club members to find a few moments to dig out any pictures or tales from the pitch that may be worthy of being featured. With the forthcoming Fixture Booklet already being prepared for next season new and fresh material is always welcome.
Tracy Poulsom
BCC Communications Editor
Another successful Annual Dinner hosted at the Plough Inn. Click here to view the photos for the evening.
15 September 2013
Heffle Cuckoos Cricket Club batted first and got off to a great start against some wayward Bidborough bowling. The weather worsened as the day progressed with strong winds and heavy rain saving the day for Bidborough when the match was abandoned shortly after lunch.