13/07/2021
Well back in March we cricketers were anxiously studying every government announcement for signs that the cricket season may happen. 4 months later, we have just concluded an action packed season with a thrilling end to the Varsity game friday evening not at the Parks or Fenners, but at Teddington CC (many thanks to William and Teddington for helping out at short notice ).
The UCCE side kicked the season off in March with a very accomplished 3 days cricket at Trent Bridge against Notts. Calvin Harrison’s 100 and 3 wickets there earned him an extended trial at Notts and confirmation of a 2 year pro contract announced Friday.
So Friday proved to be an exciting day all round. After a disappointing first innings, Oxford were invited to follow on late on day 2 and the game reached a thrilling climax late day 3 with Cambridge desperately trying to chase down 58 runs in the last 9 overs of the game after Oxford had battled their way to 233 all out in their 2nd innings. Cambridge ended up 4 runs short and 6 wickets down in a frenetic 40 minutes of runs, wickets, catches, run outs.
In between these 2 games, the UCCE side reached their 2nd successive National BUCS final, losing a high quality game of cricket to Cardiff. They played some fine cricket this year and arguably have been the best Oxford fielding side lead by the indefatigable Louie Shaw. Oxford travelled up to Leeds for their first BUCS semi final for several years and lost to a very well supported home side.
The Ladies side continued their recent dominance over Cambridge winning both the T20 and 50 over Varsity contests. The latter game was a stunning day at the glorious Getty ground at Wormsley. The ladies also had good wins in BUCS and friendly games, and have some exciting new talent into the club, one of whom Sophie Florides, will be leading the side next year.
The Authentics built upon their strong heritage with a good Varsity win and lots of enjoyable cricket.
So all in all, 63 days of cricket, heaps of paperwork and RAs, last minute planning, joy, anguish, bizarre DL calculations, and importantly lots of fun, laughter, friendships made. Well done to everyone involved players, scorers, umpires, guests, coaches and especially the team captains Louie, Chris, James, Amy, admin from David White/Chris M/Lydia and to Jon B and team for all his good humour, can do attitude and pitches. George Hargrave will succeed Chris Searle as OUCC men’s captain.
Many thanks to MCC and ECB for 20 years of funding and nurturing young cricketers through higher education which now expires. Next year we aim to run a similar programme and create lots of opportunities for players to enjoy the game and improve whilst studying. Feel free to get in touch if you are able to support this project further.
