Sat 1st May Cavaliers Riverside Park

The 2010 season got under way on a cold and wet Saturday afternoon. With light rain falling, Cavaliers were batting first and struggled to get the ball away against good bowling from Pete Hutch, Will and Rich. Wickets fell regularly, with an excellent couple of catches by Dave Perks behind the stumps backing his decision to give it 'one more season'.

As the rain intensified, batting became increasingly difficult, but Cavaliers stuck to the task bravely, with Tony Kushner constantly having to wipe the rain from his glasses to have any chance of seeing the ball. Bowling and fielding were also tricky. Was this what we had waited the long winter months for? Sadly yes.

Cavaliers eventually posted 72 all out, with praise to Tom for a great 17 given the conditions. The only Cavalier to reach double figures. Their cause had not been helped by two wickets falling to balls hitting the bat and then rolling / spinning back to hit the stumps.

The rain eased off when Bitterne Park went into bat. Jon and Toby started steadily, knowing that just staying in was the aim, given the low target needed. Having seen off the opening bowlers Toby chipped one to Tony Kushner at cover, for his customary catch when playing Bitterne Park. Simon then joined Jon, and cracked a few crisp boundaries, to see BP home with overs to spare.

In the end a comfortable victory against the Cavaliers, who had the worst of the conditions, and the luck, on the day.

The game finished with the now customary awards, and a special award to Pete Hutch for reaching 50 back in April (years, rather than runs sadly).

Sat 8th May Cavaliers Riverside Park

On another cold and wet Saturday BP decided to bat first, having seen how well the Cavaliers had done batting first the previous week.

Having got off to a solid start with Ed and Toby, Simon and Scott were next at the wicket, with 50 runs already on the board. Both played attacking innings, with Scott outscoring Simon on the way to a fifty. Scott promptly retired to give others a go, and not at all to protect his averages, and avoid the rather quick South African fast bowler who was coming back on for a second spell. A further few wickets fell, including the usual dismissal of Simon by Tony Kushner. PB eventually reaching 157 for 4 off of 30 overs.

Cavaliers reply was solid, and they managed to maintain sight of the required run rate, whilst always being slightly behind it. Luckily BP managed to take a wicket whenever the Cavaliers threatened to put themselves in the driving seat There was also some great fielding, particularly by Ed who finished caked in mud down one side of his body.

Jon Whale bowled a tight last over that would have made Luke Wright proud, and BP ran out winners by 5 runs, with the Cavaliers totally 152.

Thurs 13th May The Vine Bursledon Rec

BP played their second game ever against The Vine, and were determined to put on a decent performance. Last season, in our first game against them, we had rather 'rolled over', and whilst the good beer and free food at the pub afterwards was a season highlight, we needed to try and give a better account of ourselves.

With Rich injured, Will nominally playing for the opposition (although in reality absent due to work), and Pete Hutch clearly rather ill, we were short of bowling options. Pete Thompson thus made a welcome return, bowling in tandem with Darren Phillips. Darren took three wickets two with his trademark 'slightly full' yorker. Phil also chipped in, chucking in a couple of unintentional beamers to keep The Vine 'honest'.

Much time was spent looking for lost balls in the thorny bushes surrounding the pitch, which evidently is a bit of a tradition for the The Vine.

Despite taking wickets BP could not find a weak batsman and The Vine ended up setting a rather large target of 110 off of 16 overs.

Toby and Jon got us off to our usual good start, with Toby particularly looking dangerous. Ed, Simon and Phil chipped in, but by the time Pete Hutch came to the wicket the target was beyond reach, despite cracking a couple of powerful drives.

Luckily the beer and free food was as good as last year.

Sat 22nd May Devon Tour Buckland Brewer

After 25 years BP finally got round to playing a game outside of Hampshire. Most of the BP team travelled down in separate cars on Saturday, with an advance party of Simon, Ed, Phil and Pete Hutch going on Friday. Despite Rich and Martin being unavailable, the team was still strong, particularly in terms of batting.

On a glorious summer day BP started in the pub with a light lunch, and 500 packets of crisps. Team caps were also distributed, carrying the logo BPCC XI. Having lost the toss, BP were asked to bat for 40 overs. This is a lot for us, as we usually play 30 overs, and 35 as a max. However, we were determined to make a good account of ourselves.

Batting was gritty by Jon and Toby as they saw off the openers, and waited for the gentle medium pace trundlers to have a bowl. It became apparent however that Buckland Brewer did not have any of said 'trundlers', and wickets fell despite each batsman not selling their wicket cheaply.

Towards the end of the innings Pete T was settling in nicely, and starting to see the ball 'big' as they say. Unfortunately the same could not be said of Pete's sight of the umpire, and he and Jon suffered a rather dramatic clash as Pete raced through for a quick single. Jon was obviously taken by surprise at one of our team being able to run quickly. Jon came of the worse of the two, having been hit in the face with the bat, and loosing a tooth in the process.

BP batted on, and with Will and Pete T still in the close, posted a very credible 169 for 7. Pete T scoring over 60. A great performance given how brilliantly the opposition fielded, the best we think we have ever faced.

Buckland Brewer being a canny village team then decided to soften up BP by offering a very generous tea, with sandwiches, cake, and even actual tea. BP, being the true professionals we are, hoovered up as much as possible, before going out to field.

Defending a reasonable total, BP had belief they may be able to pull off a victory, but BB were having none of it. They batted positively, and BP were left wondering where a wicket was going to come from. Then three wickets fell in reasonably quick succession, all going to Pete T. One the result of a quite fantastic catch by Ed. Sadly some tricky catches did not get held, and BB were just too strong, winning with 10 overs to spare. BB thus took the trophy that they kindly donated (and which now sits in their local pub).

Praise should go to Jon, playing on and bowling well despite his injury, and Mark Ath, for playing whilst still suffering a leg injury that restricted him to fielding at slip. Less welcome was the sight of Pete Ethers umpiring with his shirt off, although at least he put it back on when he was at the bowlers end.

Awards, and wine to Buckland Brewer for being such fine hosts followed. The pain was also reduced by a quick calculation that put BPs average age at over 45, and BBs at approximately 25.

With Will having to take Jon to hospital, and from there back home, the remainder of the team retired for a quick shower and then back to the pub.

The players then turned in for the night, some back to a B & B, and some to a marquee in one of the oppositions 'garden' (actually a field on a farm). Mr Coleman managed to blag the use of the farm holiday let, whilst Daz Beckett, Pete T, Toby, Pete H and Pete E 'slept' under canvas. Pete T did the sensible thing, and decided to drive home through the night rather than enjoy the delights of camping.

The following morning the remaining players met up at the pub once more, this time for breakfast. All could not be happier, with the exception of Pete Ethers, who had never camped before in his life, and was determined never to do so again.

Thus finished our first, but hopefully not our last, cricket tour. A great weekend, with great weather, and even better hosts. A big thank you to all of them, but particularly to Phil, who made sure we had all we needed.

Weds 2nd June St. Cross House Sports Centre

A fine summers evening, and a much changed BP team took on the ever strong St Cross. St Cross, batting first, started well, with their openers both retiring on the 25 and out rule.

It was an under-par performance in the field by BP, with six catches of varying difficulty going to ground. St Cross ended up setting a very challenging 140 off of 20 overs.

With limited options available Will Whale offered to open the batting, and played with uncharacteristic good sense. There was even the odd forward defensive, a shot Will is not known for.

Sadly BP could not keep up with the run rate, and rather than just bat out the overs decided to give it a proper go. Wickets then started to tumble as the ball was frequently smacked hard, but either straight to a fielder, or straight up in the air.

Dave Perks went out to bat with the score on 58 - 7, and facing a hat-trick ball. Having not scored a run for a couple of years hopes were not high, but Perks had a major return to previous glory days, and smacked his first ball for 6. Perks was back. Further runs followed from Perks, and Andrew Pope also hit a good few, finally seeing BP finish on 106 runs off of the 20 overs.

Not a great day for BP, but an entertaining game, and most welcome pint in the Pub in the Park to follow.

Sat 5th June Pilgrims’ School Pilgrims’ School

BP returned to Pilgrims with two players, Rich and Mark Atherton carrying injuries. Bowling options were also limited, and BP were glad Peter Baillie could play his second game for BP in the space of a week.

Pilgrims batted first, and PB were very glad to get rid of Ed (a BP regular usually) very cheaply. Less pleasing was to see the 13 year old school boy playing for Pilgrims start to hit us round the park. BP finally managed to get to the Pilgrims middle order using the tactic known as 'let them all score 30 so they have to retire'.

Pilgrims were racing ahead, but then is stepped Jon Whale to bowl his six overs. Once he was finished, having taken 5 wickets, BP were back in the game. Toby Whale also got in on the act, and whilst he went for a few in his first over, he picked up three wickets in total, including the 13 year old coming back after BP had been through the team.

In reply BP started steadily, and kept in sight off, if slightly behind the required run rate. Of note was a brave batting performance from Mark Atherton, pretty much on one leg, ably supported by Robin Hutchings who acted as his runner.

In the last 10 overs Pilgrims always looked the favourites, but BP still had Pete T to come in, and when he did, and hit a couple of sixes, it looked more than possible. Unfortunately Pilgrims had saved a couple of their best bowlers for the last two overs, and BP only managed to score a single of the penultimate over. It came down to BP needing 2 runs of the last ball. BP managed to get a single, but with no change of running a second the game ended in a tie.

As is now customary the players headed to the Black Boy for urgent 'rehydration' following a hot day in the field.

Weds 16th June Cavaliers Riverside Park

A balmy summer's evening saw the third Test of the season in stark contrast to the weather on the previous two occasions our two teams had met this year. BP elected to field on the principle that the Cavaliers couldn't decide who would keep wicket.

The Cavaliers scored what seemed a lowish 89 in 16 overs, including a good 25 ret. by Jack Kushner who wasn't born when these two sides first played each other.

Jon Whale continued his good form with the ball with another two wickets thus persuading the captain to consider putting him on against the opening batsmen in future in a crass attempt to spoil impressive season's figures.

When BP batted there were few shocks apart from amongst the spectators who were scattered by a huge six from Phil who retired on 28.

The trophy was retained by BP for the third year in a row, but there is still plenty of space on it for more engraved plates for future years.

Sat 19th June Eastleigh B.C. Riverside Park

The weather returned to type with a chill wind whipping across Riverside Park, causing extra sweaters to be donned for this midsummer's match.
BP lost the toss and were asked to bat first. After briefly considering saying "No" in an act of un-cricketing petulance ( more about that later) Jon & Toby strode to the wicket and faced some hostile bowling which made the tail enders quite content with their lot.
A masterful innings of 52 from Simon ably supported by some clean hitting for 31 from the newly svelte Scott saw BP to a creditable 153 which we were in high hopes of defending, particularly as this was a 9 a side game - Does no-one want to play cricket on a freezing Saturday afternoon any more?

When Eastleigh batted Nos. 2 & 3 were quickly dispatched to the hutch by Daz P and, appropriately enough Pete Hutch, we began to compose our gracious victory speeches.

However a stand developed between the captain and No 4 ( B. Andrews) which was not broken until the 15th over with the score on 97. The Eastleigh skipper swished at a wide one from Jon and was caught by the ever alert Dave behind the stumps. A cry of "Nooo" was heard ringing around the ground and we were treated to the sight of a batsman thumping the ground with the flat of his bat in frustration as if trying to squash a recalcitrant mole (our own Mole wasn't playing BTW).

This gave us renewed hope, as a succession of lesser batsmen joined Andrews (90 n.o) before departing swiftly, but managed to stay long enough for our total to be overhauled after 25 overs.

Weds 30th June OMCC Sports Centre

Ah, the pleasant summer sun, the quiet chirruping of birds, the gentle thwack of leather on willow and the gruelling haul of the kit-bag up to the Alpine heights of the Sports Centre. Overseas Mapping CC once again.

In a break with tradition we elected to bat and posted 126, Pete Thompson managing the feat of scoring-30-when-you-have-to-retire-at-25 trick.

There was a truly appalling run out in this innings, which is best forgotten by all save those concerned. ( note to self - run VERY QUICKLY when batting with Pete T.) A decidedly dodgy lbw decision vied with England's disallowed goal in the World Cup for Worst Sporting Decision of the Year.

Will ( 20) AJ (22) and Jon (24) contributed well.

The OMCC always beat us. This much is known. Just when we think we've got a strong team out they come armed with extra troops younger and fitter that the rest, and crucially, skilled at cricket. Thus it was that only 2 OMCC batsmen were dismissed on their way to 127, three of their number retiring ( though not, it has to be said, on 30)

Had three very difficult catches been taken or two balls carried a bit further before dropping invitingly short of fielders the result might have been different. If...

The pub in the park remained the refuge of choice for those not needing to get home early.

Next time? who knows?

Sat 3rd July West End Riverside Park

Another bright and sunny day at Riverside, with the pitch looking good for batting, and so it turned out.

West End batted first, and got off to a good start reaching fifty without loss. BP then took two quick wickets, both caught, which was surprising given our catching performances recently. However, this did not actually make things better.

West Ends number three started steadily, but once past fifty started to motor. Bowlers were regularly rotated, but we could not get a breakthrough, and he progressed to a century.

With the sun baking down, and Jon only able to amble in the field due to a pulled hamstring muscle, runs continued to pile up, and at the end West End finished with 243, a record number of runs conceded by BP.

In reply Toby and Phil started positively, but sensibly, particularly as Jon Whale one of our usual openers was going to only bat in an emergency due to the above mentioned injury. Runs were scored, but never quite at the run rate required.

Toby and Phil both departed after decent contributions, and Pete Etherington and Simon took up the challenge. Both batted well, and got us past 200, but eventually we finished 30 odd runs short. A very creditable score.

Thurs 8th July Museums CC Sports Centre

Back to the Sports Centre, and an evening game full of incident. BP batted first, with Toby and Pete Thompson opening the batteing. Pete reached 26 and retired, as we were playing the standard '25 and retire' rule for evening games.

Simon then came in, scored 26, and retired, with Pete Etherington joining Toby at the crease. However, Simon's runs were not the biggest impression he left on Museums.

Playing a legitimate pull shot, he managed to reverse the ball back onto Matt, Museums wicket-keeper, who took the ball on the head. Luckily it was a glancing blow, and despite suffering a cut Matt was able to play on after being patched up.

After all this, Toby suddenly realised that two blokes had retired on 26, whilst we was still meandering along on about 15. Deciding to hit out he too reached 26 and retired. Unfortunately this meant Will went out to bat. Normally this would be a great situation, a big hitting player going out with over 100 on the board, ready to set up up for a big target. Will, however, was having none of it.

Whether he was distracted by having no dogs to chase after, or just felt the game needed more incident, we will never know, but Will decided to dismantle the BP innings single handedly.

First he ran out Pete Etherington, calling for a second run. Then, after a fine cameo from AJ, he got him too, also calling for a second run. Mole went out to bat slightly scared for his wicket, and was promptly run out by Will as well, without even facing a ball.

Darren Phillips approached the wicket like a condemned man. How long before Will got him too? Darren decided to just stay in his crease at the non strikers end, and ignore any calls for 'two there'. Will, obviously desperate for another wicket to fall then sacrificed his own, by getting bowled.

BP finished on 126 for 4, with Will involved in all four dismissals.

In reply Museums scored at the required run rate, but consistently good bowling by BP meant that wickets fell regularly. Stand out was Pete H, who finished with 4. His wickets made up of two bowled, one caught behind, and one stumping. BP also managing to add two run-outs, making a match total of 5.

Things were close until the last four overs, but BP kept things tight, and in the end ran out winners by 23 runs. A game that looks more comfortable in the score book than it actually was.

Sat 17th July Eastleigh B.C. Riverside Park

Another warm day at Riverside saw us initially rejoicing that a certain Eastleigh player who had scored 96 against us last time was at football training - such devotion is highly to be applauded in our opponents. Sadly his brother was playign and was soon at the crease

BP plugged away, and got a wicket, and though Eastleigh had a shaky spell. BP could not cash in, with a couple of dropped catches from the usually reliable Dave Perks behind the stumps. The new number three also managed to deposit a few balls safely (although not always deliberately) between fielders.

As the score grew BP adopted proper twenty20 tactics, changing the bowling, with Martin Kelly having his first bowl for the club, showing that he is a true devotee of the John Thompson school of long-drop bowling, and Pete Etherington bowling for the first time since serious injury back in 2008. However, it was to no avail, and despite a great one handed catch in the deep by Jon, Eastleigh posted a formidable 183.

In reply BP were slow, against two good opening bowlers, one of whom looked remarkably like England's Mr Finn. The first change bowlers were equally useful, and even the spin bowler proved a threat by actually spinning the ball. Not something we often have to worry about, and never something that bothers our opponents.

As wickets fell, all that remained was to ensure we were not totally humbled, and at least we managed to bat out the 30 overs, and get the score above 100. But in truth Eastleigh were by far the better side on the day, and comfortable winners.

Weds 21st July St. Cross House Sports Centre

The sun was low, but spirits were high ( particularly in the case of Pete Nurdlesson ) as the BPCC pagans arrived at the battlefield.

This was in Lower Bassett or possibly Upper Shirley depending on your social aspirations, and henceforth will be known as the Sports Centre.

Our heroic warriors undertook the mightily climb to the plateau where the St Cross horde were polishing their averages.

With a glint in his eye, mighty Pete Hutchingsson sent Will Doghhaterson and Pete Nurdlesson into bat. In a totally unfair way, the St Cross warriors bowled fast and true- an underhand tactic which accounted for Dog Hater, Jono Lowfulltosson, Daz

Manysandwichesson and Martin Pilgrimsson. 

Dog Hater claimed afterwards that he was enraged by Nurdlesson gay war hound , Nancy, as it sang show tunes on the boundary. Fortunately Nurdlesson, Toby Smitethebloodythingson and Simon Hiaveragesson played bravely and we set a teasing score of 82 including an epic one-ball innings by Smallangrybird Skippyson

Doghater and Mighty Hutchingsson bowled well, but the pious opposition were soon 40 -0. Daz Thekidsarealrrightsson then strode to the fore. He had one caught behind by Dave Gloveofdeathsson , bowled another and took a blinding one handed catch close in.

The St Cross looked shocked, and needing a tight over, Lowfulltosson promptly got one wicket but then hit for such a mighty 6 that flights were temporarily suspended at the nearby airport.

With their hopes restored , St Cross got home with 3 overs to spare, but we out drank them at the bar

Sat 31st July Christ Church Riverside Park

Cancelled

Sat 7th Aug West End Riverside Park

Back to Riverside Park, and a rare treat for BP, with the use of pitch one, complete with pavilion. Very handy given the constant showers throughout the game. The pitch was very different to pitch two, which had staged high scoring games recently. There was plenty of bounce for the bowlers, and whilst the outfield was still quick, runs were never going to come easily.

BP fielded first, and disciplined bowling from Will and Pete H meant West End got off to a slow start. Pete T then came on, and proceeded to take 5 wickets for very little. Further good bowling by Rich and Jon resulted in West End setting a target of 116 off of 32 overs. This was in no small part due to good fielding, the highlight of which was a great diving catch by Dave Perks.

In reply BP were steady, and kept just ahead of the run rate through Jon and Toby. When Toby departed Simon went in, and almost immediately was able to celebrate reaching 300 runs for the season. When he went for 39 Ed took over, and he and Jon took BP to a comfortable victory with just under 10 overs (and eight wickets) to spare.

We should spare a thought for West End. Not just did they loose fairly convincingly, in a match played in parts in heavy rain, but two of their players required access to the first aid bag as a result of being hit by the ball.

Weds 18th Aug OMCC Sports Centre
A wet evening game in August, and so 16 overs per side was agreed. BP batted first, and whilst they got off to a very good start were in the end restricted to 81. Whilst not a great score, the conditions had played a part in this, with a damp outfield.

Additionally OMCC have bowlers who 'take the pace of the ball', making run scoring less easy in these conditions.

In reply OMCC raced away, helped by some wayward BP bowling, and looked at one point that they would win with many overs to spare. BP managed to drag their way back into the game, but never enough to trouble OMCC, who won with 8 balls to spare.

The match was slightly marred by a 'tapping up' incident involving a BP player who also plays for a different team. As this matter is subject to internal disciplinary proceedings unfortunately no further details can be disclosed at present.

Sat 21st Aug C.A.N. Riverside Park

No play - Rain

Sat 4th Sept Pilgrims’ School Pilgrims'

The final game of the season for Bitterne Park was the eagerly awaited Pilgrims rematch, a 'winner takes all' game, with this seasons previous fixture having ending in a tie. Tension was added to the air by this being the match for which Martin was accused of attempting to poach one of the BP irregulars (during a previous BP fixture) for his Pilgrims side. In light of other recent alleged events involving certain Pakistan players a keen eye was also to be kept on any signals from either captain to his bowlers.

The offer of a barbecue and some free beer galvanised the Bitterne Park squad, with everyone suddenly becoming available come what may. In all 13 players turned up for Bitterne Park, but with Pilgrims suffering a late withdrawal, sides were evened up for a 12-a-side game. Playing (starring would be stretching the point somewhat) for Pilgrims were BP regulars Martin (Pilgrims captain), Ed, Phil and AJ Morris.

Will and Pete T opened the bowling for BP, and got off to a great start, despite Mr Coleman trying (and painfully failing) to take a catch with his knee. Before long Pilgrims were 4 wickets down, and it was looking like it could be a short game. The barbecue and the cask of ale beckoned invitingly.

Pilgrims consolidated, and when BP managed to take the 11th wicket (12 a side remember) ( actually the 12th wicket as we let one of them off) they had managed to post a reasonable 113. Great credit to the BP bowlers, with 7 wickets being bowled, mostly by yorkers, and a fine boundary catch by Daz P.

In reply Jon and Simon got out early (Simon to a stunning reaction catch by Phil which was noted for reference at the dinner dance). Toby and Ethers then steadied things, with Toby achieving the feat of retiring on 35 with a big 6, there being an agreement to retire at 30 to give someone else a bat.

The stewards were called in to investigate an incident when Martin spent a long time in consultation with his bowler AJ Morris. The crowd's noisy predictions of a no-ball next delivery were proved correct when the ball sailed far above the batsman's head.

Questions will be asked.

Wickets continued to fall, particularly when the Pilgrims opening bowlers came back on, but BP still had Pete T up our sleeves, batting at No. 8, and so were always confident. The time duly arrived, and Pete T played a key innings, in the end ably supported by Pete H, to complete victory.

After a couple of very long speeches (although evidently these only took a couple of minutes), the BBQ and beer drinking could commence. Martin was finally forgiven for the 'tapping up' incident earlier in the season, having paid the price of supplying the beer, and Pete H proved a more than adequate chief. (modesty forbids me from correcting the spelling on this one - Skip)

A great end to the longest season in terms of matches played by BP ever. All players will now look forward to a short break before winter nets, where they will as usual try and fail to improve numerous technical faults with both batting and bowling before next season kicks off.

Next up - The Dinner dance.

2010 Season Summary

Won 6

Lost 9

Tied 1

Rained 1

Cancelled 1

2nd May - Cavaliers, Riverside Park

Cavaliers batted first posting 106, Toby and Pete Hutchings took 3 wickets each. BP won thanks to fine batting from Ed Currie, Daz Beckett, Simon and Scott.

With regulars thin on the ground two new players made their debuts, Ed and Rich. Paul Neal also returned to the ranks after missing a year through injury, but had to play for the opposition to even up the numbers.

7th May - The Vine, Burseldon Rec

On a cold and windy evening BP slipped to their first defeat of 2009. It was the first time BP had played on this pitch, and all players took some time to adapt to the artificial wicket. Batting first BP made 53 off of 16 overs, with Toby Whale top scoring with 24. Praise should also go to Mark Atherton, with the first successful run-out of a team mate (Jon Whale).

In reply The Vine batted well, and were comfortable winners.

Highlight of the match was definitely the hospitality at The Vine pub, with free food laid on (always a winner with the BP boys), and excellent IPA on tap.

This was also Pete Etherington's first outing since his injury last year.

16th May - Cavaliers, Riverside Park

No play due to rain

20th May - OMCC, Sports Centre

A low scoring game on a lovely sunny May evening. BP highlights included runs and a wicket for Philip Moulin, one of several new signings this year. Arvind also chipped in with useful runs, but BPs total was far from that required against a very experienced OMCC side.

Due to unfortunate circumstances BP were several players short, but were helped out in the field by a couple of lads Darren Phillips knew, which at least helped keep the defeat from being too embarrassing.

 In keeping with the theme of the season, we had another good run-out. This time involving Toby and the unlucky Arvind.

25th May - Cavaliers, Sports Centre

BPCC history was made, with a first ever bank holiday game. Several guest players were required for BP due to holidays, with Andrew Pope and Martin Peagram putting in fine performances. Martin formed a fine double act with Jon Whale, with Jon bowling and Martin twice taking catches.

Cavaliers set a not unreasonable total of just over 100, but BP were always up with the run-rate, and this in spite of promoting a rather 'under the weather' Mole Coleman to number three in the order.

Ethers carried his bat for 41, with BP securing victory with 3 overs to spare.

The match was also notable for Rich Watt's first wicket for the club.

The Ashes were safely retained by BP.

30th May - Pilgrims School, Pilgrims School/Waverley Castle, Winchester

On a scorching hot day, BP played a batsman heavy side. Pilgrims opted for quality over quantity, with particularly fine performances from two young players, a South African and a New Zealander. To even up the numbers Pilgrims were lent Jon Whale, Toby Whale, Ed, and also James Jordan from the Cavaliers.

Pilgrims opened with their overseas stars, with one making a faultless 97. Mark Atherton stood out with the ball, taking three wickets, and Arvind also had his first bowl for 10 years. Pilgrims ended up setting a huge 229 to win.

In reply Ethers carried on from the previous match, and again carried his bat. Rich finally got a bat for the club in his fifth appearance, and promptly hit a four off his first ball, and then smashed the second straight up in the air. At last, a replacement for Nick Jones has been found.

Unfortunately the total was just too much, and BP were pleased to reach 180 in reply. This would have been even less had Toby not managed to push a possible boundary catch over the rope for six.

Whilst BP has tasted defeat, the fantastic setting, and very friendly opposition made the game a great success. Both teams then retired to The Black Boy for a well deserved pint.

3rd June - St Cross House, Sports Centre

Played on the smallest Sports Centre pitch, with a fast outfield and one very short boundary, this was always likely to be a high scoring game.

St Cross got off to a steady start despite Pete Hutch taking a caught and bowled in his first over. A couple of very difficult catches were spilled, and St Cross managed to reach 126 off of 18 overs.

BP opted for a pinch hitter, With Will Whale opening with Mark Atherton. Getting off to a quick start, they managed to match the run-rate in the opening overs. This was maintained throughout the innings, despite losing wickets as the pressure mounted. BP benefited again from a possible boundary catch being pushed over the rope for six.

It all came down to the last few balls, with the two Morrises, Simon and AJ batting. With four needed to win off of the final two balls AJ ran a lightning single to put his father back on strike. Three to win from one ball. Simon swiped and missed, but managed to run through for a bye due to excellent backing up by AJ. However, the ball had gone down the leg side, and a wide was called. Scores tied. One needed from one ball. AJ made contact, and the Morrises scrambled a single to win by one run.

13th June - Cavaliers, Sports Centre

BP fielded a strong side for final Ashes match of 2009. Batting first BP opted for a change to the normal order, but unfortunately none of Rich, Darren Phillips or Pete Hutchings could capitalise.

However, Simon scored a career best of 82, and with contributions from Ed (46), Mark Ath (29), Daz Beckett (24) , and Phil (23), set a mighty 227 off of 30 overs.

Particular praise to Ed, who batted with a runner (thanks Jon) due to pulling a muscle early on in his innings. Also of note was Daz Beckett, again run out by a colleague (this time Simon), who went on to post a big score. Earlier in the Season Pete Ethers ran him out, and went on to get a 50.

In reply Cavaliers kept up with the run rate initially, but it was too much to ask. Eventually managing to get to 146 all out off the final ball. BP's star man was Darren Phillips with 5 - 14.

This victory was all the more pleasing as there were several incidents throughout the game. Scott suffered car trouble, and could not attend, but managed to get Ed in to replace him at short notice. Toby then had to leave the match to help out at home after another car related incident.

Luckily BP always had the secret weapon of picking 12 players for the match, and so at no time were a man down. A tactic England could perhaps learn from.

27th June - West End Chapel, Away TBC

No play due to rain

1st July - Skandia, Hoglands

Cancelled

9th July - Museums, Sports Centre

For the second season running BP played Museums at the Sports Centre, rather than the traditional venue of Hoglands. The game marked the first outing of the season for Pete Thomson, who as usual contributed some fine bowling.

The game started in a farcical manner. Darren Phillips took a wicket with the first ball of the match, but unfortunately the pitch had been incorrectly laid out, and was a couple of yards too short. This was quickly noticed, and it was agreed to start the match again (rather unluckily for Darren). However, he was able to take wickets once playing on the regular 22 yard pitch.

In reply BP kept in touch, but also lost wickets at a regular intervals. With 3 balls remaining Pete Hutchings was facing his first ball, and 8 runs were needed. Pete Thomson was at the non striker's end, and Mr Hutchings was keen to pass the strike onto him for obvious reasons.

Pete H hit the first ball, ran a single, and was forced into a second by his partner. Two balls left, six runs needed. Same again from Pete H off the next ball. Four to win off one ball. With great composure Pete H smacked the last ball for four, and victory was ours. 

18th July - C.A.N., Sports Centre

No play due to rain

22nd July - St Cross, Sports Centre

On a dark evening BP fielded first. AJ Morris was back in the side having been unavailable for most games due to 'working at the weekends'. As AJ is at university what this 'work' actually involves we are unsure. Still, we were glad to have him back in the ranks.

BP were rather unlucky in the field, with several balls dropping between fielders. Dave Perks was as reliable as ever behind the stumps, taking two catches (and even appealing for one of them). Toby Whale also bowled four excellent overs, giving further support to the value of slow bowlers in the shortened form of the game.

In reply BP were steady, but were always slightly behind the run rate. Again, eight were needed off the last three balls, but the new batsman could not 'do a Hutch', and we finished up losing by six runs.

1st August - West End, Sports Centre

No play due to rain

5th August - OMCC, Sports Centre 

Given the very dodgy weather forecast, everyone was pleased to get a game, on what turned out to be a good evening. BP batted first, and got off to a great start with runs for Toby and Mark Atherton. Pete Thomson also chipped in, and almost managed to decapitate his girlfriend and daughter with a mighty six.

Simon also chipped in, and bravely sacrificed his wicket going for a non existent run in the final over (although some might claim he just wanted to get back on strike to make his 25). BP finished on a credible 116 off of 18 overs.

OMCC were quickly out of the blocks, and kept up with the run rate. We were treated to a true collectors item, with Pete Thomson dropping an admittedly difficult catch. Luckily the opposition batsman played exactly the same shot off the next ball, and Daz Beckett showed Pete how it should be done.

In the last over OMCC just needed one run to win, and with the field in, hit a four off of the first ball. A disappointing night for BP, having hoped to defend a decent target. Beer helped ease the pain. 

15th August - Eastleigh BC, Riverside Park

With several players showing a lack of commitment by going on holiday BP had to call in a couple of irregulars, with Andrew Wilcox and Dan from the Cavaliers helping out. Eastleigh batted first, and got off to a great start, with 19 coming from the first two overs. BP hung in, and managed to take regular wickets, thanks in part to taking some good catches. Mark Atherton's one on the boundary particularly stood out.

Eastleigh set a target of less than 120, and BP started slowly with Mark Atherton and Jon Whale against a fast and accurate attack. Having virtually seen off the opening bowlers BP lost a few wickets, and were behind on the run rate.

Given the low target for a 30 over match however, we knew all we needed was the classic 'one big over'. Both Jon and Ed took it upon themselves to hit consectutive 'big overs', and from then on it was just a case of keeping our heads, and not getting bowled out. Jon and Ed took us home with overs to spare, Jon finishing on 45 n.o., and Ed fast catching him up.

29th August - C.A.N., Sports Centre

BP batted first on the smallest of the Sports Centre's pitches, and got off to a slow start due to some fast and accurate CAN bowling. BP were in trouble with runs hard to come by, and Simon, Will, Jon and Toby all out. Luckily Ed continued his fine form with the bat. He reached an unprecedented 'all boundries' 50, with a six and eleven 4s, and continued on to top score with 69. Daz Beckett kept him company, and finished with a excellent 43.

BP were all out for 167, with one ball remaining, leaving Dave Perks at the wicket but yet to face a ball this season.

In reply CAN were also tied down due to some good bowling, but rallied in the middle overs, and looked favourites as they got above the run rate. BP needed wickets if they were to win the match, and managed to chip away to get to the CAN tail. With one over, and one wicket remaining, CAN needed 24 to win. Not impossible on the smallest of pitches, but Daz Phillips clinched victory with the first ball of the over, and BP were victorious.

5th September - Pilgrims, Pilgrims School

Last game of the season, and BP faced a much changed Pilgrims side from the previous encounter. Pilgrims batted first, to allow BP to set up the barbeque during their innings. Surely a more civilised way of agreeing who bats firsts.

Pilgrims started steadily, facing an excellent spell from Darren Phillips. Ed, playing for Pilgrims, played himself in, and then accelerated as BP knew he would. However, with progress slow, at one stage it looked like BP might restrict Pilgrims to not much more than 100.

Ed, having batted excellently did the decent thing and retired to give others a go, and Pilgrims proved strength in depth, with each incoming batsman getting runs. Whilst wickets were taken, it was a disappointing day in the field for BP, with several catches going down. Pilgrims eventually set at target of 152, which was achievable but challenging at the same time.

BP started slowly, facing a very good bowling from both ends. Jon Whale and Mark Atherton concentrating on seeing these off, and hoping to cash in later. Mark went on to score 30, but with several run-outs, BP lost key men cheaply, including Simon and Dave Thomson who had come over from his home in South Australia just to play.

Pete Thomson, unable to bowl due to a shoulder injury, proved that he could still bat, and pushed the BP scoring rate up in conjunction with Scott. When Scott fell, Rich joined Pete determined to see us home. Victory was achieved with three overs to spare.

The team then proceeded to tuck into the barbeque, with Pete H and Mark Atherton on cooking duties.

All agreed an excellent game at a beautiful venue, and a fitting end to a great season.

Results Summary for 2009

Date Opposition Venue Result

02/05/2009 Cavaliers Riverside Park Won

07/05/2009 The Vine Burseldon Rec Lost

16/05/2009 Cavaliers Riverside Park No play due to bad weather

20/05/2009 OMCC Sports Centre Lost

25/05/2009 Cavaliers Sports Centre Won

30/05/2009 Pilgrims School Pilgrims School Lost

03/06/2009 St Cross House Sports Centre Won

13/06/2009 Cavaliers Sports Centre Won

27/06/2009 West End Chapel Riverside Park No play due to rain

01/07/2009 Skandia Hoglands Park CANCELLED

09/07/2009 Museums Sports Centre Won

18/07/2009 C.A.N. Sports Centre No play due to rain

22/07/2009 St Cross Sports Centre Lost

01/08/2009 West End Sports Centre No play due to rain

05/08/2009 OMCC Sports Centre Lost

15/08/2009 Eastleigh BC Riverside Park Won

29/08/2009 C.A.N. Sports Centre Won

05/09/2009 Pilgrims School Pilgrims School Won

2009 Season Summary

Won 8

Lost 5

Tied 0

Rained / etc 4

Summary of Each match played in 2008*

26th April - Pear Tree Cricket Club, played at Turnpike Way in Hedge End.

On a damp pitch the opposition posted 150, with Pete Ethers chipping in with five wickets. Unfortunately our batting did not hold up so well, and we were all out for 68.

3rd May - Eastleigh BC, Sports Centre - No play due to waterlogged pitch.

14th May - OMCC, Sports Centre

Good performance by BP, on a cloudy but dry evening. With only nine players we held an always tough opponent to a tie, with each side getting 95 runs off of 16 overs.

17th May - Cavaliers, Sports Centre

Strong BP performance, with Jon Whale finishing on 48 n.o.. Our total of over 120 proved too much for the Cavaliers on a slow and damp pitch.

28th May - St Cross, Sports Centre - No play due to heavy rain

7th June - Cavaliers, Fleming Park

A fine 60 not out by Simon Morris, 5 wickets for Pete Ethers, and two run-outs by Dave Perks resulted in an excellent Bitterne Park victory. Highlights included John McGavin, Greg Walker and John Oldfield turning out for the Cavaliers. Game slightly marred by Pete Ethers umpiring whilst only dressed in rather too tight denim shorts.

18th June - Skandia, Hoglands Park

Bitterne Park scored a reasonable 88 off of 17 overs (due to not really being able to decide if we were playing 16 or 18 overs). Pete Thomson and Jon Whale creating a fine opening platform. A strong Skandia team knocked off the runs despite excellent bowling from Will Whale, Darren Phillips, AJ Morris, Pete Hutchings and Pete Thomson.

Hoglands Park was surprisingly quiet (no hordes of foreign students walking past, or drunks to watch over us and swear randomly as we would usually expect). Crowds possibly put off by the cold and wind. Finished up with the traditional pint in the Eagle.

21st June - Cavaliers, Fleming Park

No play in the final Ashes Test due to a waterlogged pitch. Match called off 50 minutes before we were due to start, which is slightly better than 5 minutes before.

5th July - Eastleigh Baptist Church, Riverside Park

Due to unavailability of key players, including Pete Etherington with a fractured arm, several 'guest' players were signed up by BP. These included James from the Cavaliers, Andrew from C.A.N, and Steve, loaned by Eastleigh themselves.

Bitterne Park started strongly, and had the opposition at 60 for 6 after 20 overs. Unfortunately some big hitting by Eastleigh, and several dropped catches by BP, meant we were set a challenging 150 target. BP finished on 80 all out, with only Toby Whale's fine 39 of note. Extras was second highest top scorer, with seven players recording ducks, a new Bitterne Park record.

Left - Andrew, Dave Perks and James watch our batting collpase. Right, Toby tries to hold us together

Left, M Coleman bats, and then (right) double checks the scorebook 'Just the one run then'

10th July - Museums, Hoglands Park - No play due to waterlogged pitch

19th July - Cavaliers, Sports Centre

An excellent start by Bitterne Park, dismissing the usually high scoring Arvind first ball. Guest bowler James Baillie took 3 early wickets. Toby Whale also took three with his slow right arm, including that of brother William, who was guesting for the opposition. Cavaliers managed to post a competitive 126, in part thanks to a very late cameo by Tony Kushner, who arrived just after the 'last' Cavaliers wicket fell.

In reply Toby Whale hit 40 odd, and Simon Morris again impressed, but BP suffered an all too familiar collapse, and finished just short, with 120 all out.

Left - 'and the winner of the Ryan Sidebottom lookalike competition is Jack Kushner'
Right - Bitterne Park team on 19th July, including several players who guested for the Cavaliers

23rd July - St Cross, Riverside

A new BP opening pair of Arvind and Pete Thompson got us off to a fine start, and both had to retire due to scoring too many runs. We posted a very competitive 101 off of 18 overs.

In reply St Cross kept themselves in the chase, but were never able to get on top of the run rate, and BP won but 8 runs.

6th August - OMCC, Sports Centre

Another cracking start by Bitterne Park, with 36 coming of the first 3 overs. Pete Thompson and Arvind again contributed heavily, with fine work also from Martin Stephens, Daz Beckett and Simon Morris. All contributed to a massive 132 off of 16 overs.

OMCC however got off to a good start, and despite losing wickets regularly were never totally out of it. With the light going, and drizzle settling in, OMCC crept home with a ball to spare.

It was a poor night for our two Daz's (Beckett and Phillips). Mr Beckett sustained a cut to the face from a rising delivery, and Mr Phillips a nasty hand injury (later diagnosed as a fracture) whilst trying to take what would have been a blinding catch.

The match was also noteworthy for a lengthy delay in play, as we tried to get the ball back off a rogue dog. Not ideal for the batting team, with the light fading, but this was always a risk if you hit the ball for six.

11th August - Museums, Sports Centre

Off to a difficult start with a last minute change of venue. BP made slow progress, but some big overs in the middle meant we posted 79 off of 16 overs. Mark Atherton and Jon Whale were the main contributors with the bat.

In reply BP used only four bowlers, as this was all we had. Martin Stevens and and his son Andy bowled well, but with Museums only needing 20 off of 4 overs we were in trouble. However, two great overs each from Pete Hutching and Jono Whale secured victory by 10 runs.

Museums evening was made worse by an injury to their regular wicketkeeper (making a rare appearance as a conventional fielder), and by having to wear their rather bright new team hats (dayglo orange and light grey).

23rd August - West End, Sports Centre - No play due to waterlogged pitch

6th September - C.A.N, Fleming Park - No play due to waterlogged pitch

*Note - some summaries are a bit lame. This is either due to my non attendance to record our historic performances, or due to the games being a bit dull and us playing rubbish.