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The Under 17 2006 Season

The 2006 Squad

D.Hardy (captain); G.Chappell (vice captain); E.Acton; S.Benton; A.Buzza; C.Donohue; J.Fletcher; J.Hyde; M.Orchard; J.Seward; S.Smith; M.Thompson; G.Tidball; T.Whitle; D.Wrench.

Strength often comes out of adversity and having spent the winter, spring and early summer viewing the 2006 under 17 season with some apprehension, it turned out to be one of the best ever! The July school tours to Barbados and South Africa were in themselves irritating, holiday commitments and a nasty long term injury to the captain were disappointing and an apparent reluctance to play men’s cricket by others all added to the headache. The result was the side selected to take on Wiltshire at Warminster bore little resemblance to the team that played against Somerset at Shanklin on the final day of the 2005 season. In fact only five of the Isle of Wight squad were present at the meeting place of Exmouth Cricket Club. One of the bigger blows was losing the services of the outstanding 2005 under 16 captain, Joe Smith, due to a recurring shoulder injury and the necessity of an operation and lengthy recuperation. The final straw was the result of a stint at short leg for his club. Fortunately, on the final day of our season we received the good news that he had started playing again the previous day. It took two laps of the Bradninch ground to persuade Dan Hardy to take on the captaincy, which was one of the more constructive forms of exertion undertaken during the summer as he proved to be the ideal replacement. It was therefore necessary to draft in over half of the 2006 under 16 squad and county newcomer Craig Donohue.

On our travel day for the first fixture of the year up to Warminster to play Wiltshire, the twenty-ones were playing at Exmouth so we met up at the ground rather than the normal Exeter Services. Having batted poorly the twenty-ones needed an outstanding bowling and fielding performance if they were to get out of their self imposed hole. It could not have been a better meeting place as they proceeded to put on one of those very special Devon performances – they were simply magnificent. Importantly the side’s new coach, Jack Porter, was a star performer which greatly helped his credibility with his new charges. The new squad all arrived early and subconsciously they must have absorbed what is needed to make a successful team. In the next forty-eight hours that they were together they knitted together to form an amazingly united team. Much of the credit for this went to the new captain and coach who pulled all the various elements together. With sixty more runs in first innings, they might well have started the season with a first innings win which in turn would have placed additional pressure on Somerset and Hampshire, who eventually won promotion from our division with Devon finishing in third place. Unexpected night time road works on the A303 turned what should have been the shortest journey of the season into one of the longest and it was Pizza and Coke at the Farmers rather than the proposed visit to the Bath Arms. Fortunately no one had brought any cards so it was a relatively early night, apart from the surprise the group gave to a long term resident in the East wing.

The warm up was vibrant and the nerves were not too evident as Hardy won the toss and took the positive step and batted. The writer’s nerves surfaced and a walk to Warminster was considered as the new pairing of Hardy and James Fletcher strode to the wicket. The Wiltshire attack looked pacey and after 32 minutes the openers were well on the way to blunting the new ball. Fletcher was then caught at slip, four runs later the captain was caught and the start was far from ideal at 15-2. Twenty-eight runs were added by the second newcomer, Gareth Tidball and David Wrench, when, with 43 minutes to go to lunch, Tidball gave a return catch. Seb Benton joined David Wrench, the pair expected to be the batting engine of the side for the summer – both batting in the Premier and both with the talent to build the big innings to take the side to 350 plus. They had put on another 28 runs, both looking polished acts, when Wrench became the fourth batmen in the morning session to be caught. New squad member number four, Tom Whittle, joined Benton at 71 and it was vital that the pair consolidated and batted for lunch. With six minutes left of the first session Benton gave the fifth catch and lunch was taken at a disappointing 99-5. The pressure was now on the remaining new players, who probably felt they had something to prove to their new colleagues. Therefore Tom Whittle’s performance was exceptional as he batted through to the end of the innings (127 minutes; 95 balls) to top score, batting through all of the second session. He lost his under 16 team mate Andrew Buzza at 101, Joel Seward at 106 (bowled) and Nelson struck when Eliot Acton gave the seventh and final catch of the innings. Debutant Craig Donohue marked his first appearance with a duck and Devon was not well placed at 112-9. Enter the final new squad member, 14 year old keeper, Matt Thompson, and it was suggested to the rest of the side that they should get their whites on, 56 minutes later the side picked up its first bonus point. The pair batted sensibly, running well with neither appearing at all overawed. It was the highest partnership of the innings and a face saving one. Both using the forward press to good effect, neither looked in any difficulty until just before tea, five foot nothing Thompson was bowled. The pair had put on 39 off 45 balls and looked high class performers with outstanding temperaments. The final session of the day went well and the shortage of runs was the only concerning factor, as in 45 overs Wiltshire was reduced to 115-5. Donohue took his first county scalp and was proving a useful addition to the attack, trapping Tanner in front. Hyde induced a nick from Vince and Thompson added to his gold stars. Seb Benton, in his new role as an off spinner, had Rowson well caught by Buzza – 69-3. Benton then returned the compliment to the side’s other offie, Andrew Buzza. 80-4 and Joe Hyde came back to bowl keeper Miles at 100. Hyde had grown 6 inches over the winter and upped his pace proving to be a real handful. Close of play brought this year’s first rugby volleyball and the side was in high spirits. We reached the Bath Arms where mixed grills replaced Hawaiians and hopefully they were tired. Unfortunately cards were discovered with the young keeper fast asleep amongst the card school.

The second day opened with cloud and drizzle and the inward thoughts were: “Could they really take 5 for 36?” They took 3-35 and then 4-40 – truly exceptional cricket, personifying why cricket is such a brilliant TEAM game. With Joe Hyde sidelined with a stitch, they all gave their all. Hardy’s tactical nous resulted in opening with spinner Seb Benton to the huge surprise of their opponents. Wiltshire had progressed to 130 when the side’s new short leg, Gareth Tidball, took a remarkable reflex catch to send back Bowler. The home side’s captain was still in and leading his side to a first innings win when 19 runs later Donohue struck for the first time in the morning, having Pittman caught by Buzza. He took his next wicket at 151 with the captain caught behind and five runs later he took his fourth wicket by bowling Earl. His figures of 4-36 off 13 overs were a fine start to his county career. As tends to happen once the pressure of passing the total is off, runs became easier but, to their credit, Devon deprived their opponents of a second batting bonus point when short leg took his second excellent catch, this time off Buzza and Wiltshire were bowled out just before lunch. If only we could have scored 220 the previous day! Unlike the tea interval the previous day, when for some reason it was decided that Wiltshire would not bat the ten minutes to tea, Devon batted and dealt comfortably with the two overs, scoring 4 runs. The new opening pair batted after lunch with total confidence, taking the score up to 98 when Hardy was lbw, which was extremely disappointing for a number of reasons. He had just passed his fifty (90 minutes 84balls) and the side appeared well on target for the targeted bonus points up to 250. Fletcher went next at 104 for a confidence boosting 33 and Tidball and Wrench were together again. Wrench went first this time for a disappointing 5 in a stand of 21. Benton again oozed confidence but gave Rowson the charge and was stumped – annoying as the engine room had failed for a second time.  Meanwhile Gareth Tidball was confidently advancing to his maiden county 50. He batted 109 minutes hitting 7 fours off his 98 balls. He was caught at 203, this had been a most important innings for many reasons and set him up for an outstanding summer. Perhaps at 203-5, it should have been time to call it a day but as Devon lost Whittle and Buzza putting on just another 6 runs, Hardy did bring them in. Devon left with 8 points to their opponents 16 but with their heads held high. The main down side was that the innings was interrupted by two golden streakers due to the inability of Messrs Whittle, Buzza and Benton to control them. Throughout the remainder of the season the dog walking at all three age groups was of a standard not witnessed before. The 16s took on the 17s in a hard fought game of football and the spirit that was to prevail for the rest of the season was set. Importantly every member of the side had made an important contribution. It had been vital that they blended – they had, it was vital that the new players showed what they could do and they had. Vitally the reluctant Dan Hardy took command in a most confident manner and led the side with style and good tactical awareness. With Gary Chappell available again after the Gloucestershire game, all that could be hoped was that the middle order left handers would perform. Encouraging thoughts entered the psyche with this group, this might be an interesting season after all. Whittle's extensive music catalogue was enjoyed for the first time and it should ensure him a long career, although Westlife and most certainly Walking in Memphis were missing. A Little Chef was found and, missing another diversion by half-an-hour, we were back to the services by 9.15pm.

The momentum built up at Warminster was continued in the game against Gloucestershire in a incredible two days at Sandford. In this exceptional summer the players were greeted with another perfect summer’s day with the ground, as always, in a wonderful condition. This venue, thanks to an amazingly hard working support team is where the county feels totally at home, no club could offer more. The Devon young cricketers are indeed fortunate to have a number of clubs of this ilk. This time, with the onus of just tossing the coin, Dan Hardy got it right and he batted. He and his now not so new opening partner, James Fletcher, went twelve runs better than their second knock against Wiltshire, putting on a seasons best opening partnership of 110. This was the ideal start as they negotiated the first session putting on 95. The Gloucester attack looked useful but neither batsman had any fears. Refreshed with a typical Nicky Radnor lasagne, it was hoped that they would also bat through the second session. This was not to be, as nine minutes into the post lunch session the captain departed, caught behind for an excellent 62 (131 minutes; 134 balls; 9 fours). He left his partner on 34 and this was the number of runs the under 16 combination of Fletcher and Gareth Tidball put on for the second wicket. Fletcher reached his first 50 at seventeen’s (160 minutes; 134 balls) but did not bat on, something for which he would more than make amends as the season progressed. He fell, leg before, for a personal 57 (9 fours) at 134. David Wrench was in need of a big innings to restore his own confidence in his batting. Here was the ideal opportunity with a tiring attack and depressed fielders for him to dominate. Unfortunately he did not take it. He again played across the line and was caught. Seb Benton was now at the crease, which at least meant we no longer had to listen to every ball of the 38 he had delivered the day before against the Royal Navy in taking his 6 wickets and winning the game for the Development squad! He batted through the rest of the innings with great determination and skill. With Gareth Tidball the pair put on 25 with Tidball passing his second successive fifty (98 minutes; 91 balls) when Tidball was caught. Poor Gareth was in the doghouse on three counts – not batting on, getting out eight minutes before tea and not looking at a new bowler - and this he was told in no uncertain terms. This was nevertheless another fine innings. The importance of the experience which this top order gained by playing in the hard knocks school of the Devon Cricket League cannot be overstressed and they approached batting in a very professional manner. Devon was 205-4 at tea well placed for a charge after the interval. Again this did not materialise despite Benton and Whittle (27) taking the score up to 255-5 when Whittle was caught. However this stand of 54 transpired to be the highest of the season for the fifth wicket.  A major minus point of this game was the loss of the last five wickets for just 36 runs, with keeper Sam Smith the only unlucky one, adjudged leg before. Devon was now struggling to reach 300, let alone the 350 plus anticipated after the opening partnership. Benton was still at the crease on 49 and the pressure was on him and Craig Donohue to pass the 300 within the 102 overs. Benton reached his deserved 50 (140 minutes; 116 balls) and the archives were scoured in vain to find the last occasion that four Devon batsman reached 50 in a seventeen’s innings. In the vital one hundredth and second over Benton took a single first ball - 296, ball two was a wide - 297, ball four Donohue teed off but had not chalked his cue and ball five a classical cross batted swipe by the Plympton all rounder sent the ball somehow straight for four – 301, pressure over. The final seven balls were blocked as we wanted to utilise the heavy roller the next day. A vibrant rugby volleyball followed with the sixteens fully put in their place and then there was an opportunity to consider the days play. The succinct and articulate comments from captain and coach were really enlightening as they summed up the day perfectly. We had learnt to bat sessions, we must always try to bat on all the way down, we could and should have scored more and it was anticipated that tomorrow was going to be a difficult day. We were genuinely impressed with the input of both.

The heavy roller was put in action for the statuary seven minutes, the plan being to use up four or five overs and get to 320. On a second beautiful day the game plan went nowhere! A maiden to Benton, two wides to Donohue, an allegedly unplayable ball to Donohue off bail removed (after his previous LBW he could not claim any doubt on this one) and Devon were in the field. Donohue wanted the lacquer off the new ball so he went for 29 off five and Hyde bowled well up the hill. What was obvious to all was that Gegg and Gayle, the Gloucester openers were a class act and 380 would not have been sufficient let alone 303! Things where now going downhill as Benton, now an key bowler in this line up, limped off with a strain caused by the Barton/Paignton feud when Whittle had taken him out in the warm up. The more mature spectators were having a field day on the benefits of these warm ups! Then perhaps the pivotal moment of the game, we have all seen the pivotal round in Deal or No Deal and you really need Noel Edmunds to enunciate the scene. The scorer had warned us overnight that there might be some interesting running between the wickets and at 11.53am, thirty-eight minutes into the visitor’s innings, both batters were at the crease at the sight screen end! Keeper Gegg had played another perfect shot and his partner, considering it merited a run, set off to increase the total to 40, resulting in both batsman being at the same crease. It was all slow motion from here on, Craig Donohue collected the ball, sent a sensible throw to bowler Seward who neatly did the rest and a very disgruntled Gayle was on his way back. From a Devon viewpoint pure magic. It now really got better, moving towards a complete all blue round as, also on 39, Coote was caught by Tidball off the energetic but blistered Eliot Acton. It was a full blue round as a third wicket fell on 39 as the other opener Gegg was bowled by Joel Seward. At 41 the real danger man Ritchie Ricketts was trapped by an exuberant Acton in front, the east and west wings plus the audience now raised the roof as if the 1p box had gone. An incredible seventeen minutes. It could have been even better as a relatively easy run out was cocked up and two reasonable chances were not taken but, at 96-5 with Dent having eventually succumbed at 88 caught by Fletcher off Buzza, a roast chicken lunch was enjoyed more by the home side. The second session started well with Tidball taking yet another superb catch, this time diving at leg slip to give Buzza his second wicket. Tidball was literally shouldering the responsibility of being the sides leading close fielder as he had received a nasty blow shortly before lunch. Little seems to deter this bright character. There always seems to be at least one partnership and one was now building up impetus, as two relatively new and young Gloucester players, Cave and Hussain, started a nerve racking recovery. It was fifty, then seventy-five, a miss at slip with Benton still on the sidelines and his thoughts, perhaps, more on his Oval appearance the next day.  In fairness to him, this was the only time all summer that the old Seb was even remotely evident. He took on the role of key elder statesman as to a manor born and was one of the side’s big influences all season. It had been important that he was out on the ground not in the pavilion so he had been encouraged to return to the fray which fortunately he did, with his bowling immediately starting to put on some pressure but the seventh wicket partnership was now over 100. Most disconcertingly every scoring shot now seemed to be flashing to the boundary over a lightning fast, brown outfield. Tea was taken at 219-5 and a former Devon opening bowler of some repute suggestion that the outstanding Hyde might like to vary his length to Cave was relayed to the young bowler. The result was startling as suddenly the batter stopped moving his feet as he was not sure of the length – a big lesson for all there. Eliot Acton never tires and having taken two before lunch was going to double his tally. He first had Hussain leg before for a vital 66. The pair had put on 128 and it was now 228-7 and the response to the wicket from his colleagues clearly showed how important this one was. It was now time for Sam Smith, who had been outstanding behind the stumps throughout the innings, to get into the score book as he made two vital contributions on a track that was now turning. Acton got a nick from the second hero Cave and the keeper dived full length in front of his conversational partners and took an amazing catch. After two hundred and sixty-one minutes and four hundred and twenty-five balls it was 243-8 with less confident batsmen at the crease. Whittle swooped at mid wicket and the swift neat brilliant hands of Smith did the rest – a quality moment on all counts, as Singh returned to the dressing room. Fifteen minutes later it was 245-9 as Andrew Buzza, who played a vital, if unsung, role in this side all summer, took his third wicket as Seward caught the final victim – 250 all out, 53 runs to spare! This was another marvellous performance with every member of the side again making an important contribution. Hyde had not taken a wicket but his spell of 0-18 off 15 was very, very impressive.  All of the bowlers contributed and apart from the twenty minutes before lunch it was a fine performance in the field. Hardy felt 108 balls were sufficient to score the hundred required for an additional bonus point and lead from the front. Twenty three were put on for the first wicket, Fletcher stumped, and forty-four for the second as Hardy was stumped for his second top score of the game 39 to make it 101 runs in two days. Wrench, fresh from his three over two maiden spell of 0-2  (both runs extras), was promoted to three and told to bat with his natural flair and instincts. Benton was caught at 84-3, Seward continued his poor run, 94-4, but, in the final over with Devon still needing two, Whittle stroked the second ball through the now single saving field to the far boundary – additional point in the bag, 19 points for the two days endeavours. The umpires were enjoying it so much they refused the declaration and gave Whittle a further four balls to boost his average! Wrench was left undefeated on what was to be his season’s best - 26, and the proposed post match interview was postponed. In view of the hectic schedule over the next ten days and to avoid any retribution on the Barton Boy from Teignmouth, Jack Porter sensibly kept the post match work to stretches and compliments to all twelve. If you were to ask anyone why they get involved in the management and coaching of youth sides, it is for days like the 25th July when you watch a group of very pleasant young men, (this group were on par with the best of the last fourteen years in this respect) all working the guts out for each other with an ultimate aim – to win together a game of cricket B…….. Brilliant. Almost a Lou Reed Perfect Day.

The game with Hampshire at Basingstoke was to be Devon’s first two day game that started on a Sunday. With it came major logistical problems not just of getting the players to their hotel but because of the previous week’s hectic schedule, which included the two day game with Gloucestershire, an under 16 mini tour to Worcestershire and Cornwall, literally the previous 48 hours and Jack Porters 18th birthday - this was to prove to be an interesting experience for all concerned. The first rain for weeks was a further spanner and the Saturday league games were delayed until past the meeting time of 8 o’clock and the nightmare got worse. Well past the proposed departure time traffic problems were holding up Seb Benton at Sidmouth and suddenly the prospect of a decent food break had dwindled. Every cloud has a silver lining, at least the traffic delayed the superstar’s report on his day at the Oval. At last we set off, finding out the Plympton pace had been too much for the Barton boys and Axminster’s poor run continued, this time at the hands of Bradninch. At Ilminster it was reassuring to welcome back a strawberry blond Gary Chappell from his mid season break in the Caribbean. The journey was difficult in heavy rain and condensation and winter driving mode was in place. With all the likely eating places now closed it was sandwiches and the like as a last resort. The Holiday Inn was finally reached at midnight and it was now that the players fully understood why the scorer had wisely suggested and, we had requested, a later start time on Sunday. The accommodation, in particular the breakfast, won the approval of the squad and next day a few puddles were the only remaining evidence of the nightmare. The venue, a former regular host of the first class game and one with aspirations for its return, provided good facilities with first floor dressing rooms and balcony. Hardy made it three out of three and batted. One of the enduring memories of two marvellous days of Devon youth cricket was the field settings for the first and last overs of the game. Hampshire started with a staggered slip cordon, short leg - the Full Monty. Two hundred and twenty three overs later Devon ended with a staggered slip cordon, short leg - the Full Monty, how the balance of power had changed! Forty-six minutes into the game with the home side attack looking a more than reasonable unit Hardy was caught for a 50 ball 14. Gareth Tidball then completed perhaps the briefest contribution to a two day game. With two fifties safely under his belt he cunningly left a straight one first ball to be leg before. Even the umpire was sorry to have to give him out! The following day, due to sickness, he fielded for just an over – it was most certainly thanks for coming Gareth. His dismissal did resolve a major problem with Fletcher having left his shirts at the Hotel we had two eights at the crease at the same time – totally village. At 38-2 Hampshire must have been fairly satisfied but James Fletcher and Gary Chappell were about to embark on a partnership of epic proportions. They took lunch at 100-2, tea at 235-2 and the record youth partnership finally was finally broken at 6.13 pm when Fletcher was caught. The pair had put on 303 runs breaking all under 17 records and 52 runs more than the previous all comers’ record when, at under 19s, the current county all-rounders David Court and Trevor Anning put on 251 against Dorset in 2000. The pair had faced 552 balls in their 256 minutes together. It was perfect batting with the running improving as they gained confidence in each other; they had only met up for the first time the previous night. The individual statistics tell the full story. Fletcher batted 304 minutes (5 hours 4 minutes), facing 321 balls and hitting seventeen fours and a six in reaching the third highest individual score of 159. Chappell batted 277 minutes (4 hours 37 minutes), facing 283 balls, reaching his fifty with a six and hitting fourteen fours in his 142 (sixth highest individual under 17 score). This was an amazing performance by both of them, showing great patience, temperament, sure shot selection and not a little skill. The Hampshire attack raced through their overs with the clear intent of bowling the 60% allocation of 122 overs by the end of the day. Devon’s plan was to bat their opponents out of the game and reach 400 plus by close of play. Not for the first time this summer the objective was not achieved. From 341-3 the side subsided to 389-7 at close of play with just one more over available in the morning. The batters still did not have a satisfactory game plan to score at 6 an over without playing big shots whereas the next morning the Hampshire openers gave a lesson in running, an aspect that this side never really mastered. Whilst the large stand had been progressing Benton and Wrench were having 20 minute sessions with their pads on and it David Wrench who came in at five. He added 13 with Chappell when his partner hit the ball back to the bowler who turned and ran out Wrench with his bat in the air – when things are not going well for a cricketer dismissals happen in unusual ways. Seb Benton then had the responsibility to increase the tempo without taking too many risks and had added another 15 when he was bowled for 7. The scene was set for a Joel Seward innings but sadly his batting confidence was at rock bottom and Eliot Acton was given the responsibility of reaching the 400. Two were added when Chappell’s record breaking knock came to an end as he too was caught. One run late Acton was bowled and the management was expressing disappointment, no, anger at the inability to build on the perfect platform. Seward joined Tom Whittle and they took their side up to a new record under 17 total, passing the 383 scored against Cornwall the previous season but still well short of the highest ever youth score of 450-5 by the under 19s v Berkshire in 2001. From 341-3 the side had 102 balls available to add the required minimum 59 runs but this was not achieved, as only another 48 were added – being hypercritical it was very, very poor cricket.  They should have pushed into gaps and run against what was a very tired side who were rushing their overs. This modus operandi would have accomplished the required result. However the end product of 389-7 together with what had been achieved quickly defused any anger. A barbecue at the Crown was followed by some of the worst jokes ever heard and it was hoped that Seward would never repeat his, although deplorably Tidball repeated it to a young Hyde the next day. A record breaking batsman was keeping the telephone exchange busy until the early hours, with some of the squad not appreciating that if you took the phone off the hook it would not ring! We had been worrying about the principles of finishing an innings when some did not even understand Alexander Graham Bell’s basic principles.

The forecast for the second day was showers from the West; it was already raining in Devon but improving. To the annoyance of an umpire and again to get the benefit of seven minutes of the heavy roller, Devon batted one more over. Tom Whittle, who is more conscious than most of every run he scores, ran one short off the last ball of the one hundred and twenty second over – it must be a Torquay Grammar School problem as Wilkinson had made a similar error at Sandford in 2005. With grey clouds around and the first interruption from rain in this previously sun drenched summer a distinct possibility, the home side’s target was to score 393 in potentially a minimum 101 overs (3.89 an over). Their intent was clear and Dawson, who had been on standby for an injured player to play for Hampshire seconds, looked what he is, an England prospect. He and the tall Ransley treated the opening attack of Joe Hyde and Eliot Acton with scant respect as they started off at over 5 an over and were 43-0 off 10, when light rain became much heavier and the umpires called the teams off. Seward and Donohue had pegged it back to just over 4 when they entered the attack. The first interruption was only five minutes but, at 78-0 after 21 overs, more rain resulted in an early lunch and eventually a deduction of two overs. The adjournment was brightened with the news that Chris Read had regained his place in the national side only to be unceremoniously dumped again in November when his feet had only just touched Aussie soil – horrendous man management by the England manager. It was not obvious where a wicket was coming from but at least the spinners Buzza, Benton and Chappell had the run rate under control when, at 171 and completely out of the blue, Dawson on 84 gave Chappell the charge and Hardy did the rest. Chappell’s importance to this side had been demonstrated the previous day but this was also his third summer at 17s as a leading spinner. He was sorely missed in the first two games and it could be fairly surmised that, if he had been present at Warminster as opposed to Barbados, the result would have been very different. At last the vital breakthrough had been made. Most Hampshire sides are made up of grooved batsmen, high in confidence and skill and oozing self-belief and this certainly applied to Riazuddian, who had already scored a hundred in this competition this year. With Ransley, who was providing the anchor, the score had advanced to 239 off 70 overs when Andy Buzza completely turned the game around. First Craig Donohue held one of those amazing catches as Riazuddian flat batted Buzza towards long off and he took this vital and result turning catch with huge aplomb. This was a critical moment of the season, had it gone down…......... The batsman crossed and the anchor had an amazing rush of blood. He had reached his hundred the previous over and then just swiped at Buzza’s next ball sending it into orbit to the call of “Mine, mine”, which was probably heard in the town, as, with reverse hands, Buzza held the caught and bowled. It was incredible how all the sixteens blended into this side and this was another vital moment. One run later he took his third wicket as he enticed Jenkins to give Seward a straightforward catch. From 239-1 it was now 240-4, a transformation, which would have caused annoyance had roles been reversed but in this case it was the total opposite. Now Devon was back in with a real chance of winning. In two overs Buzza had taken 3-4 in a superb spell. Another 45 were added as Watkins and the captain Walker took the home side up to 285 in 79 overs. The required rate was now just less than 5.5 and a key requirement was that extra overs were not bowled unless they were to our benefit and the side should hit the final hour with just 17 to bowl. The bowling of Benton in 2006 was a revelation and importantly his off spin gave the side an extra cutting edge and greater control. With the help of an over your shoulder effort from Joel Seward, who has always been an outstanding fielder, he sent back Watkins at 285. There were now three Hampshire batters at the crease as Rouse required a runner. The home sides captain took on the arm of Eliot Acton on the square leg boundary and came second as his Bradninch captain did the business, the importance of quality hand speed by the keeper had been demonstrated in the previous game and Dan Hardy did the difficult part this time. After another six deliveries it was 289-6 which twenty-six minutes later became 307-8 as Benton bowled Rouse and Bishop. The complexion of the game now changed completely, Hampshire fighting to stay in it and Devon having 84 balls to take two wickets. The helmets and fielding pads were back in, the new ball taken and runs were no longer of any great importance. Despite ringing the changes the wickets did not materialise although an extra bowling point could have been achieved on the very last ball of the innings when a very tired first slip declined a low chance. By now the home sides arrogance was surfacing again, as the eighth wicket pairing took full advantage of the attacking fields by going ahead on the four count, scoring an additional 8 fours which took their total up to 37 as opposed to Devon’s 2 sixes and 33 fours. In the end Devon bowled 103 overs and greatly enhanced their growing reputation while Hampshire needed a very serious post match debrief. An early Little Chef with Tidball now over his sickness and looking forward to his mother’s roast lamb, autographs were provided to a new young fan and they closed the A303 yet again! The diversion via Shaftsbury took us through Wiltshire, Dorset, Wiltshire again and Somerset and we were again very late! Whittles battery pack was low (couldn’t he include a charger on his packing list?) so we had to suffer David Wrench’s musical (a total misnomer) selection - the same David Wrench who was barred from playing his music at last year’s Isle of Wight festival. The jokes were no better, with Porter bringing out his rambling one, but fortunately most were tired after eight intensive days cricket in the last nine days. Exeter Services were  reached at midnight - they now had a day off before taking on Somerset, who would want to be a pro cricketer? – Most of them!

The two games against Hampshire and Somerset programmed in the same week had long been considered to be the vital week in the 2006 under 17 campaign but after the two historic days at Basingstoke the side approached the second game against our neighbours full of confidence. The target for the week had been maximum bonus points and any additional points would be gratefully accepted. It transpired that the two days against the overtly confident and verbose Somerset under 17s would be almost the complete opposite to the first two days of the week, as it was a “backs to the wall” job virtually from ball one. Daniel Hardy continued his record breaking season at the toss and Devon batted but their opponents were at the crease a mere 43 overs later as Devon was bowled out for 81. Top scorers were the under 16s Gareth Tidball and Andrew Buzza with 14. Seb Benton, David Wrench and Tom Whittle were, apart from extras, the only others to get into double figures in a very sorry batting progression. Impressive pace bowler, Ben Rudge, bowled both openers and spinner, Ed Lye, took 4-20 off nine overs. He had taken eight Devon wickets in the two games at sixteens so was becoming something of a “thorn in the flesh”. Perhaps we had allowed too much talk about Axminster prior to the game. Somerset is certainly not the opposition to put on a below par performance, as they are at you from the moment you arrive at the crease and the message, amongst the giggles and comments, got through that they felt the home captain should have fielded. At twelve minutes past two we did, as Somerset batted and their openers, former Dorset player, Esson, and Fear, put on an ominous 80 in 57 minutes. Dorset had also lost Watkins to Hampshire which is a disconcerting trend. Andrew Buzza then forced Fear into a false shot which was held by Benton. Nine runs later and having achieved first innings points, the captain/vice captain combination again worked when Esson was stumped. For the second time in three years a young Irish cricketer was proving another thorn, as Ackland passed his fifty and, in the company of the visitor’s vociferous keeper, Todd, took the score up to 166 when Benton trapped Todd in front. A run later Perry became Benton’s second victim held by Tidball and then at 179 the visitor’s captain placed the ball down Buzza’s throat off Craig Donohue. The two hundred was passed when Ackland became yet another short leg catch for Tidball who was on target to equal or beat the season’s best performance by a fielder. This was Buzza’s second key wicket and close of play came at 213-6 with a little pride restored.

The disappointing first day and the hectic schedule of the last twelve days resulted in a less dynamic warm up but the message of the importance of getting 8 points from the game was fully understood as the side set about picking up the additional 6. Two additional bowling points were obtained as Hardy picked up three more stumpings and it was reassuring to watch Somerset, for the second season, struggling to up the tempo to reach the final bonus point at 300. They eventually gave up with a lead of 205 when nine wickets down. Benton finished with the fine figures of 4-62 and there were two apiece for Buzza and Chappell. Donohue put in another impressive spell, his personality and attitude have blending perfectly into the squad. His threats of upper cuts and hay makers were missed in the final game when Newquay held a greater attraction than Hamworthy (for the record it should be noted he had booked well before he knew he was under consideration). The captain’s fantasy stock rose sharply with his four stumpings in the innings. The game had now proceeded with some hitches as David Wrench was immobile with his calf /ham string strain and attempting a caught and bowled, Andrew Buzza had damaged a finger. With the small injury department temporarily closed at the nearby Axminster Hospital, we were fortunate that a Ward Sister took time out to look at Buzza’s digit and suggested rest. He was luckily playing again the next week but Wrench unfortunately was not as the injury ended his season. It is hoped that next summer David will regain the form that resulted in him in winning the prestigious League Young Player of 2005. His personality was an important ingredient in this squad and it was disappointing for everyone that runs for him were at a premium this summer. Now it was necessary to pick up four points  and the plan was to bat the available 87 overs and reach 250 on a pitch now dusty and taking spin. Could we at last actually complete a strategy? The openers embarked on this huge journey at twelve minutes past noon and lost their first wicket twenty-two minutes later when Lyons bowled the captain. Lunch was taken at 42-1 with the two under 16s Fletcher and Tidball digging in. They took the score up to 66 when Tidball, having hitting a six into fine legs hands and over the boundary, fell to spinner Barrowman who forced him to play on. He had batted an hour for his 42. Chappell was caught behind at 87 but Benton and Fletcher carried on the dogged search for batting points, picking up two as they put on 64. Both applied themselves with great determination and skill, taking the side through to over 44 – half way there! Fletcher’s marathon ended in an identical fashion to Tidball, his 67 having taken up 136 minutes, a vital contribution. With a runner, Wrench lasted five balls and we were back in the trenches. Tea was taken at 165-5 then immediately after the interval Rudge made one take off and Todd did the rest with Benton departing having batted 101 minutes for his 30. Some 30 overs now to negotiate. Tom Whittle showed throughout the summer great maturity and consistency in his batting as his final average of 28 shows. On this occasion he added great subtlety as he resolved a major long term annoyance. Joel Seward and his name have been unmercifully ridiculed by the opposition in the last two games and  he was grilled by Rudge first ball – resulting in laughter from a teaser. The childish chanting continued as Whittle expressed an opinion to an umpire that it was getting out of hand – he was dead right and the tormenters were silenced. The success of this spontaneous act was one of the high spots of the season, most satisfying and justly enhanced Whittle’s growing reputation. Joel then reminded every one what an asset he is as a batter as the pair put on the highest seventh wicket partnership of the season - 44 in ten overs. In the sixty-eighth over and Roberts second, Seward was caught behind for what had been a typical 33 (4 fours and 2 sixes) this partnership helped secure the third batting point. Joel Sewards’s return to his true batting form, after some below par performances was a great relief to the entire squad. With Buzza unlikely to bat, the ECB was telephoned to clarify if Joe Hyde could bat. Fortunately it was decreed he could by default, as they had not been asked this question in the past but would now look at it for next year to determine whether the eleven batters in the first innings have to bat in the second. Two more of the sixteens now got stuck in as Whittle was joined by his under 16 captain Eliot Acton, who was in a very responsible mode. They took the score up to 225 after 75 overs when Acton became the Irishman Ackland’s first victim bowled. Two runs later Whittle’s vigil came to an end. He had batted 101 minutes for his 25. It was now up to Craig Donohue and the exceedingly nervous Joe Hyde to score the 23 runs in eleven overs – the general consensus was that it would be extremely difficult. They amazingly achieved it with true guts and fortitude, their resolve was really outstanding and epitomised the spirit of this group. The only blip was a claim for a catch at slip dead in line with the Devon contingent and it was obvious the ball bounced without the need to go to the third umpire, rightly it was turned down, this decision might have sparked the later behaviour. The pair secured the eighth point off the fifth ball of the eighty-fifth over, a wonderful achievement from everyone, and then Hardy called them in. Donohue faced 33 balls for his five and Joe Hyde twenty-five balls for his equally vital 10. Both deserved the congratulations received from their team mates. The visitors were oblivious to their manager’s earlier statement that the game was dead as they charged off requesting, well it was perhaps stronger than a request, the home side to get their whites on!! We were 45 ahead with one over left! Fortunately sanity prevailed although an opinion was expressed that our bowlers were so poor they would bowl sufficient no balls and wides in the over to score the runs which in truth was a bit harsh! Perhaps an over of underarm with the field set back would have appeased. Depressingly this seemed to sum up some of our opponents but at least Ed Lye, who actually is very popular with our squad, did not add to his tally as he went for 51 off his twelve overs. This and the ignoring of the match officials by the opposition players soured the whole proceedings and what Devon had achieved against what is undoubtedly a very talented bunch of players, who easily won the division and gained promotion. After the match the squad was genuinely congratulated for all they had achieved to date, the eighteen points from the week was way above those anticipated in April and we said a sad goodbye to Craig Donohue, who both on and off the field had been a huge asset and had been an inspired selection. Porter won the 70 yard sprint by a short head and the players now had a few days rest, although the sixteens were playing the cidermen, including Field and Ackland, again the next week, with the former’s pair relayed with some relish to the seventeens on the way to Wareham. Although, not known at the time, this was also David Wrench’s final game of the summer in any form of cricket, the Plympton contingent had played an important part in the season and would both be missed.

It had been 354 days since we last heard Walking in Memphis on the mini bus but Porter’s new fangled Ipod brought back some real classics to the play list. This enlivened a smooth journey to Wareham in the knowledge that the weather forecast had fluctuated like a yo-yo for a week with the latest view being that it was unlikely we would get in much cricket in the programmed three days, which included a four county Twenty20 season finale at Taunton. An enjoyable meal at the Black Bear brought the card school into operation in Joe Hyde’s room and on Joe’s command the players dispersed immediately to their own rooms, what power. The day started with an early shower for the scorer as water penetrated the canopy of the four poster. Urgent investigations found an empty room (the occupant was allegedly on a pre breakfast training run) with a shower on full pelt at the trays weakest point - the sealed abutment of tray and wall. This necessitated an explanation in shower tray technology and it was to be an early lesson for the Isle of Wight tourists. It was reassuring to learn that there are still some subtle song writers currently composing, as Yogi Bear made his debut through the speakers on the journey to Hamworthy, which took longer than planned as we were delayed by an inability to actually find this modern ground! Hardy broke the tossing record by making it five out of five and for the fifth time batted. Unfortunately the captain only lasted twenty-six minutes when he patted back a short one to be caught and bowled. James Fletcher and Gareth Tidball put on 34 when, after four minutes over an hour at the crease, Fletcher was caught behind for 19. In his first season at 17s Fletcher’s had totalled 347 runs, the fifth highest season’s aggregate, averaging 43, and he can, with others, look forward to 2007 in the knowledge of what he has already achieved but it is hoped he will set himself an even stiffer target in 2007. Gareth Tidball was another who made a splendid impact throughout the programme and along with Fletcher, Chappell and Benton demonstrated the vital ingredient in two day cricket, an ability to occupy the crease. Tidball soon lost Chappell but found a vital ally in Seb Benton as the pair put on the third and final century partnership of the season - 123 in 117 minutes, and the best fourth wicket partnership of the year. Had the seventeens two years ago been able to bat sessions as this squad did, they would not have been relegated and the huge success of this group has been the application of the batters and the ability of the bowlers to bowl sides out. Benton completed his second fifty of the season off 121 balls but was trapped in front by the Muri style bowler Malik on 71. Tom Whittle, blaming the long partnership and the one hundred and thirty-seven minutes he had to watch for his early demise, followed in similar style not offering a shot. It was an early twitch by the umpire behind his back that was a clear indication he was going to be on his way but it was followed by an eternity before the finger was actually raised. Matt Thompson was now available and playing after his busy summer with his own age group, which included an early departure and flight home from a school trip in Germany to play in his side’s national quarter finals against Wales. He suffered a similar delay at the other end this time as Sweatman trapped him in front. The side had been reduced from 174-3 to 191-6. Tidball was fortunately unmoved, having passed his third fifty of the season in 160 balls, and Eliot Acton gave him support for another 44 minutes taking the score up to 232. Tidball, beginning to show signs of fatigue, eventually fell at 259 having put on another 27 runs with Joel Seward. He had come in 297 minutes earlier and faced 230 balls in scoring a county best 79. His and Benton’s innings proved to be critical. The ninth wicket fell at 272 with 37 balls and one wicket to achieve the 28 required for the fourth batting point. Cometh the hour cometh Andrew Buzza and Mark Orchard, making his under 17 debut, and, with Devon now in whites ready and eager to get into the field, they took the score up to 299 after 101 overs. In the final over of the day Buzza just went to town scoring 14 including an extra cover six and a refined cut for four. They both had batted superbly and perhaps again this partnership typified some other qualities of this side – grit – determination – character – skill – ability and team spirit. Close of play saw a 3 goal deficit turned around to a 4-3 win by the sixteens. As the side travelled back to the Black Bear it started to drizzle and this then turned into a dark autumnal night with heavy rain. Curries proved popular and the side said goodbye to Porter, who had apparently no confidence in his ability to get the three A’s and felt he needed to be on hand to find a university somewhere in the UK that would actually take him. He left with a most useful book that the squad felt would complete his education.

It rained most of the night and it was dark and foreboding when it was time to leave Wareham. The screen wipers were in constant use on the 30 minute journey to the ground that this time was found first time and, on arrival, Dorset was already starting their pre match preparation. Could we actually get in a full day’s play? The groundsman and umpires were happy we would start on time so in Porter’s absence our qualified coaches Seb Benton and Gary Chappell led a first-rate warm up with total co-operation from their team mates – a true sign of the right attitude that ran through the squad. Hardy wanted to bat on and the writer suggested that we could look total idiots again! Fortunately Mark Orchard took charge, depriving Andrew Buzza of the strike and hey presto the score shot up to 340, 30 added off 24 balls – the pair had executed their instructions perfectly and Dan Hardy called them in. A text message was received from Jack Porter, who, as anticipated, had got his 3 A’s so Durham would be the unlucky university, presumably the real reason for his early departure was that he just wanted a rest from this lot. In truth it was an enormous shame he could not finish the season with his squad. Fortunately the weather forecast was now more reassuring and it was now anticipated that after 1.00pm it would be bright and indeed amazingly two days’ play were indeed completed. Early wickets were now critical, the Brixham Boys Hyde and Orchard did the business when on 2 Hyde deceived Pearce and bowled him neck and crop, at 9 Orchard bowled Elliott and then it was 28-3 as Acton found Strickland’s edge; After seventy-four minutes it was 50-4 when Devon took the key wicket as Dorset first teamer, Richard Armstrong, who had hoped to be playing at Lords  in the MCCA knock out final instead of here, was well held by Hardy with the ball leaving him off Joel Seward, who was in the middle of one of the top spells of the season. He was moving it both ways in the air and of the seam and this was a big wicket as his colleagues showed. It was really exciting to watch Seward in action in a perfect viewing position in a very well appointed clubhouse, although some of the sixteens would not have appreciated that the players had to man the scoreboard. CDM Matt Theedom came through with a message that it had rained so much in Taunton that the Twenty20 the next day had been cancelled – this disappointing information was kept until later. Poor Maher was in all sorts of trouble against Seward who hit him on the body twice. It was only a matter of time and at 62 he was bowled and lunch was taken. For the past two years we had enjoyed lunch at this time of the year with the Bristol rugby players, this year we were joined by AFC Bournemouth. Soon after lunch the Hardy/Seward combination removed another competent batter in keeper Ridley -  70-6. Jack Porter was advised of the news about the Twenty20, at least he could now celebrate his success that night. Seward came off having ripped out the middle order in his best county spell of 6-2-13-3 -  superb bowling. This season there had been a number of excellent spells – Donohue at Warminster, Buzza at Basingstoke and this one was as good The spinners now took on the mantle at 84 as Burfitt was well held by Thompson on the square leg boundary off Benton, Chappell trapped Sweatman leg before and at 93 Whittle at slip took out the aggressive Malik also off Chappell. It was a year to the day that Chappell and Yau had put on a record tenth wicket partnership and today’s was starting to frustrate, 29 had been added for the ninth and now 35 for the tenth. A great intake of breath followed Buzza’s fifth catch of the season off Seb Benton. They had achieved a remarkable victory when inclement weather had been the worry – Devon was now safe and need not worry about the other results. Tea was taken, the follow on imposed, which in retrospect was Hardy’s only error of an otherwise outstanding season, had he experienced a similar position before he probably would have fully appreciated the difficulty of bowling a side out twice. This would be the side’s last session together, as the news of the Twenty20 cancellation was broken – their response typical: “Can we have a bonding day together instead?” and indeed some went bowling the next day. Instead we had by far the worst session of the season. As Ian Botham said the next day in reviewing England’s poor performance at the Oval you can have a poor session but not a poor day. Well this proved to be a very poor session with just a single point being picked up as Hardy caught Stickland for the second time in the day, this time off Orchard, and then stumped Pearce off Benton and Buzza took his sixth catch of the season removing Ridley off Chappell. Orchard limped off with an ankle injury which at the time cast a serious doubt on his being fit for the IOW festival, fortunately he made a subsequent miraculous recovery. The hard hitting Armstrong was missed four times in the forties, with Acton bringing out the teapots and receiving a flung cap from a club colleague, Tidball had been on target all summer to become the most successful catcher at this age group but missed equalling the season’s record on a simple one and Andrew Buzza had now literally caught him up. A chance behind went begging and then Seward missed a hard hit drive. Some drizzle was around resulting in a rainbow and Dorset finished on 173-3. The works game played on the main ground afterwards was of a higher standard than Devon’s last two hours in the field in 2006. The final football game resulted in a penalty shoot out for the title which went to the seventeens. The Cricketer figure will have a prominent and particularly pertinent place in the garden and will always remind us of Hardy’s Seventeens – all fifteen of them tremendous young men who played to their best at all times, well except the last session! It was an interesting but sad return journey, with the mandatory road closure - this time the A31 - and Hardy and Benton in charge of the music which at times made David Wrench’s absence even greater. They did at least ensure that Robbie was in full voice on arrival at the services. The superbly royal painted Twenty20 pads were distributed and it is hoped that the Whittles labour will not be wasted and they will be utilised in the future. It was fully appreciated on the final homeward bound stretch how fortunate the side had been to get in two full days, as on the A38 there were terrific flash floods and on returning home the brown lawn that had been left on the previous Tuesday was now green.

It will be extremely difficult to better this season for all the right reasons, the chemistry of the side was just right with a splendid balance of old – Hardy, Acton, Benton, Chappell, Hardy, Seward, Smith and  Wrench and new Buzza, Donohue, Fletcher, Orchard, Thompson, Tidball and Whittle all playing to the Musketeers philosophy. The seventeens provided impeccable examples and in 2007 this year’s sixteens will be expected to do the same. This report reveals that every member of the fifteen man squad made telling contributions. The originally unenthusiastic captain was outstanding, he provided a different brand of captaincy but equally effective. His early batting was excellent and only when he combined his keeping duties did its importance diminish. Statistically he averaged 39.5 without the gloves and 7.25 with the gauntlets. The responsibility of leading, opening the batting and keeping is a big one and although he will deny it, it is a huge task and does take its toil. He was an excellent captain, scored 187 runs, dismissed 10 victims and stood out as winner for the D.H.Watkins Player of the Year Award not least for winning the toss five times out of five! An early email to James Fletcher read: “How do you fancy opening for the seventeens?” His response was “I wouldn't be fussed at all, I feel that I am in good nick and have lots of confidence! So yer I am up for it!” Eight hundred and thirty minutes at the crease facing 771 balls scoring 347 runs at an average of 43.38 made him the clear batsman of the year. He will be expected to put on a repeat performance in 2007 without being stumped once! Apart from an hour at Sandford Sebastian Benton was a total revelation. He scored 217 runs, took twelve wickets at 20.00 and his behaviour and attitude was an example to all. His conversion in the winter was a master stroke and, if there had been an award for all rounder of the year, he would have won it but he had to make do with being Bowler of the Year.  Gary Chappell’s involvement was vital and he can look back with great satisfaction on three very successful years at sixteens and seventeens He featured in two record partnerships, took 33 wickets at 23 and scored 573 runs at 27. Joe Hyde and Joel Seward in their own quite way played key roles with bat and ball, although Joe’s involvement with the bat only tended to be in a crisis. Craig Donohue did the impossible, came in and was a hit from the moment he set foot on the minibus at Exmouth. It was unfortunate that the writer had not made his interest known earlier as there might not then have been a clash with Newquay as he would have enjoyed Yogi Bear and the Australian commentary of their match with Sri Lanka or was it India. David Wrench is at a batting and personal crossroads but his personality has been a fundamental element in all the success the group has achieved. Of the sixteens, they all contributed far more than could possibly have been expected when the group initially set out. They were as much the backbone of the team as their elders, making telling contributions with bat and ball and in the field. We have already considered Fletcher but Tidball averaged 36, scored his maiden county fifty and then did not look back, took six catches, successfully took on the role of short leg and bowled. Tom Whittle from his first entry at Warminster was a rock, his fielding was as vital as his average of twenty-six, it is disappointing that he is the first player to be yellow carded for his tackle on Benton and the first batsman to be refused a declaration. Andrew Buzza united both elements of the side with his persona, humour and never say die attitude. His bowling (10 wickets), fielding (6 catches) and batting particularly at Dorset were critical. All rounder Eliot Acton, despite being the continual butt of his Bradninch colleagues, played his part all summer, his wickets at Sandford being fundamental to the ultimate outcome. The two young keepers, Sam Smith and Matt Thompson, whose appearances were restricted by their own age group demands, fitted like the proverbial glove and, with the other under age players, can look forward to more. Mark Orchard’s inclusion in the final game was the result of solid performances throughout the summer and he was rewarded by a share in the highest last wicket stand and an early breakthrough. His ankle injury will, however, be overlooked.

Jack Porter has already received deserved praise in this report, he fitted in well and will have learnt a great deal from his first year. His was a job well done and, as always, so was Elizabeth’s. She has an ability of spotting problems before they occur and Devon are fortunate to have her services even if her navigation under pressure still requires refinement! We played at Axminster, Sandford and Seaton this summer, all venues that make the side feel most welcome and go out of their way to assist the county, our thanks to them all. The umpires have an often soul destroying job but are as vital an element as any in the game of cricket, the DCUS and their appointed officials were exemplary.

These thirteen days together have been a very special journey, initially into the unknown, with an out of the ordinary group of people - it will be a season looked back upon with real affection. So to 2007 when Buzza will be Benton, Acton – Hardy, Fletcher – Fletcher and so on and so forth. It could be another exciting year despite the long trip to Billericay, sadly Whits without the prospect of a Holiday Inn, as we are playing both away games mid week and cannot get weekend rates!