1st XI Saturday

Windsor Bounce Back

2011-08-03T20:29:00.003Z

After last weeks disappointing loss against Slough which could have seen us close the gap on first placed Marlow, Windsor needed to put in a strong performance against Finchampstead to consolidate second spot.

Skipper Adam Weston broke all club and probability records by losing the toss for the eighth time in a row and Finch opted to bat on a flat Windsor wicket. Finch got off to a flyer before Wes Nichols found the outside edge of one of the openers and Rick Baumgartner took a sharp catch standing up to the wicket. With the score 1-82 in the 17th over, Rah Mohindru then applied the brakes and took the vital wicket of Mark Shepard (39), bowled with drift and guile, drawing on all of his 47 years of experience.

With Shepard in the pavilion, the young Finch batting line up offered little resistance. Rah took an impressive 6-39 from his 18 overs with Chris Kellard and Ben Harris each chipping in for the remaining 2 wickets. After making a bet with Holmsey that he'd take the catch for Rah's last wicket, Ben Harris took a screamer at cow corner to earn himself a tenner.

Defending a small total of 166, the Finch bowlers had no answer to the opening pair of Mark Huggins and Charles McInerney who bludgeoned the young attack. Charles notched up 55 before being bowled by Clarke but Huggins went on to score an impressive 81 from only 53 balls.

Windsor knocked off the total in 19 overs, finishing before 6pm to the delight of the scorer!

Having consolidated 2nd place Windsor now has its sights set on chasing down Marlow.

WINDSOR FALL SHORT IN DRAW

2010-07-20T17:06:00.003Z

Ben Harris 7/52 done his best to restrict Kew to 178 on the weekend but it was not enough to get Windsor the win...

KEW 178

Ben Harris 7/52

drew with

WINDSOR 8/141

Windsor travelled to Kew to begin the second round of TVL Division 1 games last weekend. With Kew heading the table, it was always going to be a great challenge for the Home Park side.

Sadly the coin fell poorly for Nichols and Windsor where asked to bowl on a pitch that looked like it would take turn very early on. Windsor managed to knock over the top order with Vandermerwe (1/16) and Nichols (1/19) both grabbing scalps, but then it was the "Ben Harris Show" as the 18 year old picked up 7/52 in 18 overs, who along with Mohindru (0/52 off 19) managed to knock over Kew for 178. It was a par total in hindsigh considering Windsor had the home side 8/118, but the hot conditions gave rise to some tired feilding and bowling, where and extra 30 odd runs where leaked.

In reply Vandermerwe (20) and Vandenberg (30) got Windsor off to a good start, but a spell from Kidron Thomas slowed the rate to the extent Windsor needed 8 an over off 12 overs. Nair (12), Weston (14), Huggins (11) and Nichols (14) all needed to post bigger scores as San Jose (18*) and Borland (12) managed to survive to clinch the draw.

Windsor really needed to restrict Kew to around 20/30 less and bat alot more sensibly to be any chance of beating them, but has been the story for most of the season, the top order just couldnt get it together.

Windsor play local rivals Maidenhead & Bray next weekend at Home Park

WINDSOR FINALLY CLOSE OUT A GAME!

2010-07-05T22:05:00.003Z

Huggins gets back in the runs with 61 v Cove at the weekend

WINDSOR 163
Huggins 61

Defeated

COVE 151

Windsor finally finished off a game with a magnificent crawl off the canvas effort against fellow Division 1 new guys Cove on the weekend. With both sides missing crucial players due to injury and availability, it was always going to be a real test of each clubs depth.

Windsor won the toss and decided to bat first and managed to get to 2/65 at drinks at 17. This par total was expected to be a solid launching pad for the 2nd third, but Windsor then lost 6 for 28 to be 8/93 due to a mixture of lazy batting and fine bowling. An amazing rear guard action was launched though as Huggins (61) and Borland (15) put on 70 runs for the 9th wicket and really silenced a justifiably cocky Cove outfit to get Windsor to a reasonable 163.

Windsor could sense Cove lost the ascendancy in that last stanza of the first innings and wanted to push that home in the 2nd, where the skipper Nichols (2/12) got his side off to a brilliant start getting a wicket with the first ball.

The game see-sawed until a devastating spell of fast bowling from Borland (3/35) including real pace and bounce aimed at Coves middle order buckled the home side to be 8/107. The game was on a knifes edge until spin twins Harris (1/31) and Mohindru (2/35) claimed 1 of the last 2 wickets each to finally finish off the Cove side and bring a welcome 25 points to Home Park!

Windsor have welcome problems next week with 4 1st team players back available for selection after missing last week, making selections for this week ends encounter with league heavy weights Kew difficult. They will need all hands on deck to beat this very impressive Kew side who lead the TVL table.

WINDSOR STRUGGLE TO GET AN EVEN BREAK...

2010-07-04T21:28:00.005Z

Ben Harris claims his best figures for the season with 7/71 in the tied game v High Wycombe

WINSDOR 9/183

Tied with

HIGH WYCOMBE 8/183

Windsors luck just cant come in, as they saw match day injuries play a crucial part in their match with High Wycombe at Home Park on the weekend.

Windsor lost the toss and where asked to bowl where Nichols and Vandermerwe consistently beat outside edges, and chances either dropped short or went over fieldsman's heads! Spin was introduced early and from here Windsor gained the momentum. On a great batting deck Mohindru (0/57) off 22 overs and Harris (7/71) off 20 overs done a sublime job in pegging back the opposition. The 18 yo Harris in particular was brilliant getting his first big haul in Division 1 with massive rip and guile through the air.

One interesting facet on the day though was in the last 10 overs, Windsor lost 4 players (that's right FOUR) to injury! Vandermerwe (quad), George (groin), Birch (hamstring) and Mohindru (hip) all went lame, meaning Windsor only had 6 able bodied guys in the field! When will the luck turn?!

Windsors chase started positively with and it was Weston (58) and Vandernberg (55) putting together that crucial partnership to get Windsor in target. With 10 overs to go and 70 Windsor had 6 wickets in hand to launch an assault, and skipper Nichols 40 (off 21 balls) changed to whole complexion of the game to the extent upon his departure, Windsor only needed 6 runs off 1 over with 4 wickets on hand!

Sadly though, Windsors inexperience was on show, combined with the fact that runners where required for injured batsmen 9/10 and 11, the home team could not keep their heads as 3 run outs where affected in the last 6 balls with only 5 runs scored, meaning a lossing draw.

Windsor hope that the lessons learnt from this game and the Thatcham Town encounter will put them in good stead in futures fixtures, and also hope that maybe a little luck will shine down on them at one stage this season!

WINDSOR SPANKED!

2010-07-04T21:06:00.004Z

Arrie Vandemerwe, one of the few to hold their heads up after a spanking from Burnham on the weekend.

WINDSOR 118

Defeated by

BURNHAM 6/120

Windsor travelled to Burnham on the weekend to sadly deliver their worst performance of the season.

Upon losing the toss, Windsor were inserted on a "spicy wicket" where Mo Fazal bowled a brilliant spell to have Windsors top order reeling at 4/30. The middle order and tail thankfully wagged with Nichols (21), George (25), Vandermerwe (28) and San Jose (20) all getting starts to get the total beyond the 100 mark. One of these lads HAD to get beyond 50 and start a partnership to really have any chance.

Windsor where always 60 runs too short, and with Nichols (1/19) having Burnham star Aftab Khan dropped behind on 8, Windsor's hopes where dashed. Thankfully Vandermerwe (2/32), Harris (2/35) and Mohindru (1/38), all bowled well, but it was a case of not enough runs being on the board.

With lessons learnt, Windsor play host to High Wycombe next weekend.

WINDSOR POST 2ND WIN!

2010-06-27T16:40:00.003Z

Oliver Birch (53) made short work of a 133 total as Windsor get their 2nd win of the season

WINDSOR 133/4

Birch 53

Defeated

WOKINGHAM 133

Nichols 4/21

Windsor got back into the winning groove after last weekends dissapointment with a 6 wicket win over Wokingham on the weekend.

Windsor upon losing the toss, Windsor bowled and immediately skipper Nichols (4/21) claimed top order scalps leaving Wokingham on the brink at 6/50 at drinks. From here Mohindru (3/27) and Vandermerwe (2/52), tight things up and in the 52nd over, the 10th wicket fell, leavinf Windsor to chase a tricky 133.

Windsor got off to a cracking start with Birch (53) flaying the Wokingham attack all over the park, and with the help of Huggins (21), Vandenberg (20) and Weston (11*) reached the total in the 21st over.

Windsor take on table toppers Burnham next weekend.

HEARTBREAK FOR WINDSOR

2010-06-09T20:42:00.003Z

Swing King Arrie Vandermerwe continues to bend balls around corners as he claimed 4/63 from 19 overs straight on the weekend .

WINDSOR 6/193

Defeated by

THATCHAM TOWN 9/195

Vandermerwe 4/63

Windsor where forced to endure the cruelest of losses as they saw Thatchams Towns last wicket pair plounder 32 runs in 12 balls to secure their first win of the season on the weekend.

Upon winning the toss, Windsor batted first and steadily got the total to 6/193 after 52. Vandenberg (28), Vandermerwe (25) and Nichols (33) all got starts but it was Weston (34*) and Harris (27*) that proved that wickets in hand can set up successful late flurries at the death.

This late flurry paled in significance to the onslaught at the death dealt to Windsor at the hands of Thatchams Bird and Williams.

Even with a bowler down in Borland turning up to the game lame, Windsor had done everything right with Harris (2/51), and the sublime Vandermerwe (4/63) off 19 overs straight securing early wickets and bulding pressure. But 2 crucial dropped chances came back to haunt Windsor, after the 2nd drinks break.

Thatcham had seemingly shut up shop with the 45th over being a maiden, until Bird and Williams struck 32 in 12 balls, and needing 4 to win the game off the last ball, went 2 better and smashed the shot of the day, a 6 over long on, that could still be travelling, to set up scenes of joy for the victors and heartbreaking defeat for Windsor! It was a magnificent game of cricket where cricket was certainly the winner on the day!!

Windsor still confident even due to the loss, pick up 13 points and look forward to taking on the expeirenced and strong Wokingham at Home next weekend.

AMERSHAM TOO STRONG FOR WINDSOR

2010-05-23T19:18:00.003Z

Skipper Wes Nichols was welcomed back to the side as he top scored with 45 v Amersham

WINDSOR 177

Nichols 45

Vandenberg 40

Defeated by

AMERSHAM 4/180

On the hottets day of the year thus far, Windsor struggled to compete with Division 1 heavy-weights Amersham on the weekend.

Upon winning the toss, Windsor batted, but no real partnerships got going on a decent batting strip. Only Nichols (45) and Vandenberg (40) shared a 47 run partnership that helped define the innings, but both departed when they needed to stay in and push a total to 200+. As it was 177 was a sub par score and Windsor would need to take early wickets and them some, to compete.

That they did with Harris (3/75) and Nichols (1/45) making inroads early on, but on a now devine batting strip, Amersham did what Windsor couldn't, build a game breaking partnership. Cann (62) anbd Fleming (62*) provided a masterclass on batting as they destroyed the will of the home side, putting on 100 and more or less winning the match.

Having played, and been beated by the top 2 sides on the ladder thus far in Kew and Amersham, Windsor are hoping the lessons learned, can put them in good stead for the rest of the season, and with a bit of luck, maybe grab a win against Basingstoke next weekend.

WINDSOR OVERCOME ADVERSITY TO GRAB 1ST WIN!

2010-05-19T20:57:00.003Z

Evergreen playboy Rah Mohindru claimed a match defining 5/70 as Windsor get off the mark in
season 2010 with a comprehensive win over M&B

WINDSOR 5/202

Birch 85

Vandenberg 77

defeated

MAIDENHEAD & BRAY

Mohindru 5/70

Windsor managed to grab their first win of the season as they stood up under great pressure to overcome rivals M&B on the weekend. The preparation was far from great as Nichols had to pull out the day before due to a family emergancy, and Vandermerwe was unavailable with businesss.

A vastly inexperience bowling line up consisting of debutants Borland and Thompson had first use of the wicket as M&B won the toss and batted. They found the step up tough as the home side put on 70 for the first wicket before the ageless Mohindru (5/70) and Harris (1/60) bowled unchanged and did a magnificent job in restricting the opposition to 200 off 52 overs.

With stand in skipper Weston, thinking it was a 280 deck, Windsor where elated and set about knocking off the runs with ease as Vandeberg (77) and Birch (85) put on 171 for the 1st wicket and effectivley winning the game. It was dissapointing to see Windsor gift the opposition 2 extra bowling points as they lost 5 wickets for 30 runs to get the total, but all in all, the side where pleased with the chase and confidence is restored after an opening round defeat!

Windsor host the tough Amersham at Home Park next weekend, and hope that further collapses will be avoided as they start to find their feet in Division 1

WINDSOR TEST KEW DESPITE DEFEAT

2010-05-19T20:41:00.003Z

17 year old George Gould showed he was well up for this level as he top scored with 47
against Kew on the weekend.

WINDSOR 155

Gould 47

Defeated by

KEW 5/155

Windsor kicked of the TVL with a loss on the weekend to competition heavy weights Kew at Home Park.

Windsor sadly lost the toss and where sent in on a deck that did quite a bit due to overnight showers. Kew quick Kidron Thomas picked up 3 of the top 4 in quick time, meaning Windsor were on the back foot early on. Birch (30) looked in fine touch early on but it was left to Gould (47) and Nichols (38) to rebuild the innings as they got the score past 100 at drinks. The two needed to kick on after the break but Nichols was run out and Gould departed soon after, as the tail struggled to support not out batsmen Weston (10*) to lose 5/30 and lay stranded on 155.

Kew set about chasing the target calmly as Vandermerwe bowled an inspired spell of 18 overs straight for 2/46, into the wind! Sadly Windsor where always 50 runs too short as Nichols (1/28), Harris (1/22) and Mohindru (1/28) all chipped in before Kew reached the target in the 44th over.

Windsor certainly noticed the difference in standard, and hopefully will learn that any quarter given at this level will be taken by the much more astute opposition.

Windsor travel to Maidenhead & Bray next weekend, where a win wil be just the tonic to get them back into the groove.

WINDSOR FINISH FRIENDLIES ON A HIGH...

2010-05-19T20:25:00.003Z

Skipper Wes Nichols (77* & 3/38) gets into form at the right time of the season

WINDSOR 6/197

Nichols 77*

Defeated

EVERSLEY

Vandermerwe 4/23

Windsor managed to jag a final win prior to the season starting, against Eversley on the weekend. Upon losing the toss, Eversley set about setting a target, but only Saville (55), could get over the top of the Windsor bowlers. Vandemerwe (4/23) and Nichols (3/35) bowled well as Harris (2/55) chipped in to cap off a reasonable performance.

The chase started well, with Vandenberg (28) and Birch (30) putting on 50 for the 1st wicket. But then wickets fell regularly until Nichols (77*) teamed up with fellow bowling partner Vandermerwe (22) for the 5th wicket partner ship of 52, to secure the match.

Windsor need to be patient both with the bat and in the field to reach their full potential in 2010. Wins will not simply come in Division 1 like the previous season in Division 2, so they have to ready graft a bit more, in order to gain favourable results.

WINDSOR SUFFER FIRST LOSS

2010-04-24T20:48:00.002Z

Wes Vandenberg was superb as he scored 68 in an otherwise bland Windsor CC batting display on the weekend

WINDSOR 158
Vandenberg 68

defeated by

MAIDENHEAD & BRAY 4/160

Windsor suffered their first loss of the season with a comprehensive peformance by Maidenhead & Bray on the weekend.

Upon winning the toss only Nichols decided to bat on a greenish wicket where only Vandenberg (68) could get a score. Vandermerwe (10), Nichols (14), Malloch (19) and Kemp (11) where all guilty of giving away starts, something that really came back to haunt the side. Poor shot selection was the main bugbear, as the top order made mistakes that previously in Division 2, would not cost them a wicket.

Maids chansed the target with gusto, as they tore apart some lacklustre bowling to streak to 50 after 6 overs, but Vandermerwe (2/23) and Hartridge (1/20) managed to claw back a small bit of repectability. It was all in vain as the low score and great start Maids made meant the total was reached in the 31st over...

It was a good hit out for the team and the guys learnt alot from the experience of playing a fellow Division 1 side, that should help them going forward into the season.

The standards that where previously accepted as par are now realised now as not enough, as Windsor need to move forward and develop their game further, to be able to compete at this level...

WINDSOR PICK UP WHERE THEY LEFT OFF...

2010-04-18T15:17:00.005Z

Club debutant Arrie Van der Merwe picks up 5/22 and gets 22 as Windsor rock home on their first fixture of 2010

WINDSOR 260/5
Huggins 90

Defeated

EGHAM 92

Van der Merwe 5/23

Amid glourious weather, Windsor kicked off the 2010 season with a win against Surrey Championship Div 2 side Egham on the weekend.

Winning the toss, Nichols decided to have a bat with new additions Van den berg (38), Van der Merwe (22) along with Birch (28) all getting time in the middle. It was Huggins (90) though who took full advantage of his oppurtunities as with the help of Weston (14) and Nichols (21*), got the score to a very competitive 260/5 in 52 overs.

From here Windsor looked to attach with the old ball, and with the side missing spin king Ben Harris, Rah Mohindru (3/33) set about knocking the top order over. He provided good support to Van der Merwe (5/22) whose change ups and ability to keep the batsmen guessing will be invaluable to the side in 2010. Debutant Nick Borland (1/0) and Hartridge (1/14), picked up the tail as Windsor romped to a 168 run win.

Windsor will be hoping the same luck is on their side next week when they take on Maidenhead & Bray in the first inaugural "Gittens/Smith Cup"

END OF SEASON SUMMARY

2009-09-21T16:34:00.004Z

Windsor 1st XI TVL 2A Champions 2009

2009: The Year of the Third Slip

Windsor 1st XI began 2009 with high hopes following a strong finish in 2008 when the team gained 140 pts in the last half of Division 2a. Heading into the new season with a newish squad compared to last season with Bird, Millman, Gregory and Chorley unavailable, Windsor were looking to make a strong start after 4 or 5 years of mediocrity.

The pre season games certainly didn’t give any indication of the performances which were to follow; Windsor flattered to deceive at Egham and pulled up short at Datchet, but redeemed themselves with a convincing win against a very weak Boyne Hill side (much to the dismay of Tim Smith Esq who found himself humiliated against his former club).

Heading into the first league game against Basingstoke at home, the team had been working particularly hard on their fielding, the one discipline in which they felt they had the upper hand on every single team in the league. As the game unfolded, it was ironically to be this discipline which lost them the game. Having won the toss, Windsor batted on a slow and low Home Park deck and were restricted to 134/7, Kemp providing the only resistance with 42*. Dropped catches cost Windsor dear and the opposition scraped home 6 down. Despite all the positive vibes, Windsor were staring another average season in the face.

Not to be perturbed, skipper Wes Nichols stressed the importance of simple basics to all the troops in the changing rooms. From here every member of the team made the commitment to value their wicket and work harder in the field to put pressure on the opposition.

The second half of this vow stood Windsor in good stead in their second game, away against Chiswick and Latymer. Having been inserted on a green top, Windsor crawled to 137 off 48 overs in difficult batting conditions. In response, Chiswick couldn’t cope with the pace and bounce of Nichols and Kemp who, in tandem, ran through them for a meagre 98. With 25 points on the board, Windsor had broken their duck and were hoping to build on this momentum over the following weeks against league new boys Eversley and Cove.

The team (and assorted female entourage) arrived at Eversley in buoyant mood and upon seeing what looked like a hard and fast deck, their mood improved further. Nichols won the toss and duly elected to bat. Windsor faced a good, pacey attack on a fast deck which suited their batting down to the ground as they were able to post 230 in their allotted overs, with some excellent hard hitting from Birch and Malik at the top of the order and Harris lower down. Windsor were determined to back up their bowlers in the field and despite a howler from Birch, Windsor were electric in the field and out played the opposition with ease, Kemp and Nichols again providing the fire power.

The season felt well and truly alive and the team were bonding well both on and off the field. this being the key ingredient to their success! Excellent wins followed against Cove and Marlow, a game which some in hindsight view as the catalyst for the remainder of the season. On a wet, miserable day Windsor vs Marlow was the only fixture to be played. Inspired by the batting of Nichols (who self executed himself run out on 99) and the bowling of Kemp (4/25), Windsor picked up 25 points and established a lead at the top of the league which would never be breached.

As an aside, it is important to note the commitment of second team wicket keeper Mervin Care who travelled from home to field for Adam ‘The Groin’ Weston. The team were all grateful to Merv for coming over, and despite dropping one of the best bats in the league, he made a valuable contribution to arguably the most important win of the season.

Nichols had sculpted his team into a ‘bat first and bully’ outfit over the first month of the season. The aim was always to score 200+ and then bully the opposition with the pace of Kemp, Nichols and Hartridge away from home and the guile of Harris and Mohindru at home.

Their chasing form was soon to be tested against Beaconsfield and Bagshot in consecutive weeks as the team pulled through with (almost) flying colours. Thanks to sublime bowling performance from Mohindru (7/26) v Beacs and Hartridge v Bagshot (4/38) the batting chased smaller totals with Nichols, Birch, Weston and San Jose all contributing to steer the team home and secure another 40 points.

One of the most satisfying aspects of the season has to be the fact that at some point or another, every member made a crucial contribution to the team. Against Finch it was the turn of Ben Harris to prove what a talent he is, ripping through the opposition with a return of 7/32. With another 25 points in the bag, Windsor headed to local rivals Datchet in high spirits…. What happened during that game scarcely deserves mention but needless to say that from 1-11, the players were gutted by the 132 run loss.

The feeling whilst sat in the away changing room at Datchet, listening to ‘We are Champions’ belting out from next door was a great motivating factor that would inspire the team throughout the rest of the season, and thankfully one they were able to impart on their rivals 9 weeks later.

At the turn of the season, Windsor had their noses in front, a position they certainly were not used to. The team were confident and with the return of the mercurial Huggins the batting looked significantly stronger and the bowling was as lethal as ever. After the debacle at Datchet, Windsor had to start again and they did so in emphatic fashion winning 4 of their next 5 games (It would have been 5 form five but for the rain at Basingstoke), claiming a total of 112 points. It was this amazing run which was eventually to seal Windsor 1st XI as league champions.

Throughout the season, skipper Nichols had led from the front and it is noticeable that in this run of five games, he accounted for 20+ wickets and scored more than 200 runs. This kind of form dragged his team out of the doldrums and the team is indebted to the captain for his performances throughout the year. The self proclaimed ‘Daddy’ can now surely lay claim to be one of the better players in the TVL and take limitless satisfaction in beating his twin from Datchet with whom he was separated at birth!

With four games remaining, Windsor were league leaders by a massive 50 points and whilst the league wasn’t over, the remaining games provided Windsor with the opportunity to play some champagne cricket.

Arguably the highlight of the season came over at Finch, a happy hunting ground for the Windsor boys in recent years. Some of the older heads (Oliver ‘hot pants’ Birch and Jon ‘Symbols’ San Jose) had a torrid day but it was a joy to see some of the colts being introduced into senior cricket. U/15's Jack Barton and Kris Baumgartner were rewarded their debut and both batted, bowled and fielded superbly in a dramatic last ball win inspired by Bevan ‘the finisher’ Malloch. The finish was so dramatic that Mrs Malloch was reduced to tears and Mrs Barton could hardly watch as Jack hit the winning runs. The team celebrated in typical fashion, all piling into town still wearing their whites for one of the more bizarre nights of recent years. It was this day/night which the scribe feels encapsulates the season more than any other: A superb game of cricket, followed by a great night, enjoyed by all of the team.

In summary, 2009 has been a season to remember. The 1st XI have been crowned Div 2A Champions, had won the East Berkshire 20/20 and came runners up in the Farnham Royal Knockout (only to be beaten single handedly by a test match player, which sadly is a luxury that Windsor will never be able to afford). As mentioned, the hallmark of the team was that week in, week out, blokes would stand up when needed and make vital contributions to the team.

After 2 seasons, Nichols has been successful in getting his side to display a change of attitude from the outfits of prior seasons. Windsor started working together as a team and from there grew confident together. The 1st XI was finally committing to each other and not themselves and started to play proper cricket, not just turn up and hit and chase a ball around in the afternoon. Training and practice was getting put to use on the field and the side never EVER made excuses.

As such, it is difficult to highlight individual contributions. However, from short mid-wicket it was apparent that 4 or 5 individuals made a massive impact on the side. Promotion was the product of 2 years of hard work from Wes Nichols, who has integrated himself fully into his new club….. The side will need his runs, wickets and leadership in the more testing Div 1 next year.

Mark Huggins has added a real edge to the batting line up, the maturity in his batting was a joy to watch for those who have watched the fat slogger hole out for years on end, he now has a role of responsibility in the side that will be needed for the younger guys to learn from.

Adam Weston, who provides the perfect foil for the more aggressive batsmen in the line up give Windsor a much needed backbone in the middle order and his grit will be a vital ingredient if Windsor are to thrive next year.

Oliver Birch possibly single handedly taught the side from out int he middle to importance of rotating the strike and taking all singles on offer. His 2nd 500 run season in a row gave Windsor the platform that allowed them to get those 200 totals.

Finally, Ben Harris who with his bowling and fielding gave Windsor another gear in the field, has come of age in ’09. Windsor will be looking to Ben next year when the chips are down to lift the side when they’re chasing leather to all four corners.

All in all, a fantastic season. It is rare that everything goes your way on the sporting field but it is fair to say that with 14 wins out of 18 games and the highest points difference from 1st to 2nd (78pts)throughout all 18 TVL leagues, Windsor have had one of those years.

Lets hope the squad can remain tight knit and committed over the closed season, train hard and come back ready to mount a challenge for Div 1, a task which although very difficult, is within their grasp.

Cheers for the memories.

AWARDS

1st XI Players Player - Wes Nichols

1st XI Captains Player - Ben Harris

Statistics form the TVL

Batting

Wes Nichols 671 runs @ 44.72 (5 x 50)

Oliver Birch 526 runs @ 32.88 (4 x 50)

Mark Huggins 493 runs @ 41.08 (4 x 50)

Adam Weston 359 runs @ 35.90 (3 x 50)

Bevan Malloch 224 runs @ 28.00 (3 x 50)

Bowling

Wes Nichols 51 wkts @ 11.86 (4 x 5wkts)

Ben Harris 39 wkts @ 16.80 (3 x 5wkts)

Rah Mohindru 21 wkts @ 13.81 (1 x 5wkts)

Tom Hartridge 18 wkts @15.17

Brendan Kemp 15 wkts @ 23.47

Bevan Malloch 11 wkts @ 17.00

Catches

10 - Ben Harris

8 - Brendan Kemp

5 - Adam Weston, Mark Huggins

4 - Oliver Birch, Wes Nichols

Wicketkeeping

Jon San Jose

21 dismissals (16 catches and 5 stumpings)

WINDSOR FINISH SEASON WITH A WIN

2009-09-07T21:27:00.004Z

Malloch does it again scoring 53* as Windsor

finish the season on a high

WINDSOR 223/6
Malloch 53*

Defeated

DATCHET 221/5

In a game that was effectively a dead-rubber, Windsor hosted Datchet in the seasons final league game. With Windsor already crowned champions, both sides where lacking the same motivation that saw Datchet towel the Home Park side up earlier in the season, and it looked that might continue as Datchet won the toss and proceeded to belt the Windsor bowling all around the Park. Only Malloch (1/34), Nichols (2/56) and Harris (2/67) where able to penetrate as Datchet declared their innings closed after 40 overs in a stunning sporting declaration.

Windsor where pretty confident of chasing down that total on a lovely batting strip and looked to get the colts time in the middle. Birch (23) started well with Nair (19) but it was young U/15 Kris Baumgartner again (29) who occupied the crease and allowed the likes of Weston (38) and Huggins (16) to up the rate. Upon Baumgartners departure Malloch (52*) and Nichols (32*) got the Windsor side home as the managed to finished the season on a high.

In the wash up Windsor have won the league by a mammoth 78 points! They scored 360 pts in the 18 matches league averaging better than 20 pts a game, and upon those numbers are more then ready to take the step up to Division 1 next season.

It is widely accepted in the clubhouse that this Windsor 1st XI is the best Windsor team ever to grace the hallowed Home Park, and many are sure that this is just the start of a golden age for the club.

BEVO HAS HIS TIME TO SHINE!

2009-08-30T17:21:00.004Z

Bevan "The Finisher" Malloch gets Windsor

home in a nail biter at Finch

FINCHAMPSTEAD 9/260 (51 Overs)

lost to

WINDSOR 8/261 (48.5 Overs)
Malloch 77*
Weston 52

With the league already secure, Windsor travelled to Finchampstead to try and keep their 100% winning record at the venue in the last 4 seasons in tact. With young U/15's Kris Baumgartner and Jack Barton handed their 1st XI debuts, Windsor lost the toss and had to toil away first on a sublime batting surface.

With Nichols still incapacitated with a knee injury, Malloch and Kemp took the new rock. Malloch (2/55) was great as he probed away outside off stick as at the other end Kemp (2/61) bowled in a very intimidating manner hitting the splice often. The decks played true all day as Pike scored a deserved 100 for the home side as Harris (3/72) toiled away and in the process claimed his 40th league wicket with great support provided younster Barton (0/32) getting in 8 overs and showing in the feild and with the ball what an exciting talent he is.

At the beginning of the season Windsor were a poor batting side. Over the course of the season Windsor have well and truly put that to rest as they shot out of the blocks with Huggins (37) and Birch (27) bringing up 50 in the first 6 overs! U/15 Baumgartner (17) and Weston (52) managed to edge the score closer but the partnership between Harris (37) batting at 6 and Malloch was what pulled the momentum back into Windsors favour after Finch did well to apply the brakes.

As wickets fell the equation became 60 runs in 7 overs, it was good to see Windsors old sparring partner former Datchet skipper Mark Sheppard giving plenty of friendly banter on the sidelines regarding Windsor chances and the apparent embarassment it would feel if they fell flat!! The side was most pleased to prove the journeyman wicketkeeper wrong as Malloch proved a masterclass on finishing an innings scoring 50 runs in the last 5 overs with a massive array of sixes and timed singles and with 1 ball to spare, his partner Barton managed to score the winning runs! Funnily enough Shep wasn't as chatty after the win, as the skipper was more than happy to let him know!

Bevans knock was all class for a plyer who has tremendous talent and sadly due to injury has not had much of a chance to shine as he otherwise would in Windsors success. There is not a more important player in the first team set up and was great to see him contribute again as he as often done to a Windsor win.

Windsor play host to Datchet next weekend as the friendly local rivals will no doubt want to restore some pride after being comprehensively outplayed by the Windsor side over the course of the season. Win/loss or draw both sides will be sure to have a good drink and celebrate a great season in 2009, as it will be a shame that both sides won't get a chance to play against each other in 2010.

Fingers crossed Shep may turn up again to spur the Windsor side to another win with his friendly banter from the boundary rope, we may even buy him a beer if he gets us home again!!!

WINDSOR ARE TVL 2A CHAMPIONS!!!

2009-08-23T19:54:00.004Z

Windsor celebrate in style, winning the league with 2

games to go!

WINDSOR 235/5
Nichols 97
Birch 69

Defeated

BAGSHOT 106
Harris 7/69

With a win required to guarantee the TVL 2A title, Windsor hosted Bagshot who on the back of consecutive wins, where full of running and confidence. With Nichols winning the toss, Windsor decided to bat on a wicket that might break up, as the game progressed.

San Jose who in his 2nd crack at topping the order failed, meaning Nichols and Birch where able to renew their consistent partnership. When Birch (69) departed, the pair had put on 117, and a big total was looking a chance. Huggins and Nichols then got together and as they have done to many sides this season, scored freely. Nichols closing in on a 100 then got a leading edge to mid off to fall for 97, but the work was well and truly done as Huggins (37) closed out the innings for Windsor and after 52 overs where 235/5.

Windsor could smell the league title, and knew if they could get 10 wickets would clinch it. Windsor then set about taking those 10 wickets as Harris (7/69) used the home conditions to his advantage as Nichols (2/29) now on one leg, hobbled in support at the other end. With Mohindru (1/7) getting in the act, there where scenes of jubilation as Windsor had claimed the title!!

The champagne flowed in the dressing rooms and that night as Windsor celebrated winning the league with 2 games to spare! Windsor now have a 74 point lead from 2nd place. That's a fair reflection of Windsors dominance in this competition. The league tables doesn't lie, they have been far and away the best side in the league.

Windsor travel to Finchamptead next week and will looking to blood some colts in the next 2 games as they prepare for life in Division 1.

LADY LUCKY SHUNS WINDSOR

2009-08-17T08:23:00.003Z

Huggins scoring 67 was not enough for Windsor

to win the league as they are forced to wait another week

BEACONSFEILD 222/9
Nichols 4/39

Drew with

WINDSOR 173/4
Huggins 67

Windsor travelled to Beaconsfeild on the weekend to try and secure their Div 2A title. The lead up to the fixture could have been better with Hartridge presumably breaking a finger during the week, but deciding to play. That poor luck continued with Nichols losing the toss and Windsor having to bowl. From experience the Beaconfeild deck is very good to bat on first, very hard second, so it was important early wickets where taken. Luckily that was done as Kemp (1/18) and Nichols (4/39) got the early break throughs, but just as the deck flattened, Weston split the webbing in his hand from a tough chance and had to be rushed to hospital. This meant Windsor had to field with 10 players and 1 of them in Hartridge, nursing a broken finger!

From here Beaconsfeild found the gaps easy to identify and plundered 222/9 in 52 overs. Harris 2/28 done very well in trying conditions, and Windsor could only wonder what could had been, as Beaconsfeild must have scored an extra 30/40 runs through the gaps the man down created.

Windsor had to re-shuffle the batting order to deal with Westons absence, and with Hartridge unable to put a glove on, let alone bat! Windsor where effectively 2 men down. Birch (14) and San Jose (18) done their best and Gould (25) showed his promise, but it was left to Huggins (67) and Nichols (45*) to combat the very good Beaconfeild attack.

At drinks it was 101/3 and game on. But Beaconsfeild started bowling stump to stump on the up and down wicket and the partnership could never get going again, Windsor had to settle for batting points. with only 9 players able to bat

It was quite bemusing to hear the chirp from the Beaconsfeild side about "not going for it" when they had a long on/long off and sweeper in place from the first part of the innings!

Although their frustrations where valid, in the reverse position, it would be guaranteed Windsor would not have been so defensive with feild placing! This scribe thinks you need to "earn" a win, not wait for an opponent to hand it to you... Windsor with 9 x 25pt wins "earn" victory through positive feild placing and an aggressive mentality. At no time did Huggins and Nichols feel like the oppostion where looking to take their wicket, they seemed to be merely waiting for them to make a mistake. That wasn't going to happen!

Maybe with a couple of back pads instead of a players riding the boundary to take advantage of a poping pitch, it could have been a different outcome?

Windsor would also like to take the time to thank Beaconsfeild for helping Weston to hospital after his webbing was split. The manner in which the home side came to his aid was very much appreciated by Windsor, and showed the spirit the game should be played in, hard on the feild and friendly off it.

So with a draw secured, Windsor look forward to hosting a bullish Bagshot this weekend, and hopefully with 11 fully fit players ready to go, can secure the title! Maybe!

WINDSOR MAKE IT 4 IN A ROW

2009-08-10T11:35:00.004Z

Nichols (7/29 & 33) with Huggins 79 combine to bring

down Marlow as Windsor leap towards the League

WINDSOR 159 All Out
Huggins 79

defeated

MARLOW 80 All Out
Nichols 7/29

Windsor took a giant leap towards the TVL Division 2A title with a much needed win against Marlow at Home Park on Saturday.

In a gutsy move Nichols won the toss and decided to bat first, hoping to take advantage of the up/down surface bowling 2nd on the wet deck and to put pressure on a youthful Marlow outfit chasing a target.

It was expected to be extremely difficult batting first though, and this was highlighted by Birch falling 2nd ball of the day! From here Gould (11) defied his youth and managed to rebuild the innings and but when he departed, it was left to Nichols (33) and Huggins (79) to get a score of 120+ which was expected to be par.

Huggins was majestic and has come full circle in the space of 1 year. He is very close now to the finished article, and living up to the potential he has always had. His powers of concentration and maturity under pressure, the areas that where lacking in his game 1 year ago, where sublime, and the fact he more than doubled the next highest score on the day tells the story. It was the knock many have been waiting for him to play.

A score of 159, was probably 20 less than what was achievable, but Lee Atkinson (6/56) made life terribly hard to get any further.

Windsor went into the break pretty confident knowing the pitch still had a bit of life in it and the gamble of batting first would pay off, if Windsor could put enough balls in the right areas. That was certainly what happened as Nichols (7/29) and Harris (3/41) bowled unchanged to hand Windsor the 25 pts after 24 overs.

Windsor are now 68 pts clear at the top of the ladder and with 4 games in hand are favourites to clinch the title. Windsor travel to Beaconsfield next week in a quest to keep the run going to 5 in a row.

WINDSOR WIN 3 STRAIGHT!

2009-08-03T08:18:00.004Z

Birch plundered 73 as Windsor knock off

a plucky Cove to get one step closer

WINDSOR 201/4
Birch 73

Defeated

COVE 186 All Out
Nichols 5/69

Windsor where lucky to keep their winning run going with an entertaining 15 run win against Cove on the weekend.

With rain falling heavily in the morning, and the outlook for the rest of the day far from promising, Windsor won the toss and batted, hoping to score as quick as possible. Nichols (43) and a brilliant Birch (73) put on 107 for the first wicket and were scoring at 5 an over. The 16 year old Gould (27) and Huggins (37*) managed to keep the flow continuing and San Jose (19) managed to provide the cherry on top with 3 big sixes to push the total over 200 in the 38th over.

A gutsy declaration was then called, giving Cove another 14 overs to chase a more than gettable target. The skipper was mindful of not only the time remaining in the game with inclement weather fast approaching, but keeping Cove interested in chasing down their first win of the season, as not to allow them to "shut up shop".

After a few overs the first stop to the game was called as rain tumbled down. The wet ball and dark skies played havoc with Windsor behind the wicket as 5 chances went down. Luckily Nichols (5/69) managed to hit the stumps.

After the 2nd rain stoppage, Randall (66) launched a fine rear guard action until Birch took a magnificent catch as mid on diving to his left, to swing the game back in Windsor's favour. Another brilliant snare by Malloch at short leg, again off Mohindru (2/23) meant Windsor needed 2 more wickets. Tom "Action Man" Hartridge (3/29) duly completed the job, handing Windsor its third win on the trot with 15 runs to spare.

Windsor play host to Marlow next week whose ability defies their position on the ladder. Windsor need to field considerably better if they are to knock over this very good side.

WINDSOR MAKE IT 2 ON THE TROT

2009-07-26T17:00:00.003Z

Nichols continues his good run of form with the batwith 68

as Windsor scrap home against Eversley

WINDSOR 186
Nichols 68
Huggins 62

defeated

EVERSLEY 173
Harris 5/91

With a blanket of rain smothering Home Park on the Thursday and Friday, chances of playing where very slim. But thanks to the outstanding work of Waterers ground staff, Windsor where able to host the punchy Eversley without any issues.

Nichols managed to win the toss and choose to bat on a very damp wicket. A surprising choice considering Chana (1) and Nair (16) both fell early on. Once again it was Nichols (68) and Huggins (62) who managed to re-build the innings. When Nichols departed with the score on 153/3, a score of 250+ looked on the cards, but some dumb batting, combined with a great debut from Eversley youngster Cummings (6/11), ripped the heart out of the much maligned Windsor lower order. The final 7 wickets managed to score 33 runs. No matter which way you want to sugar coat it, it was a pathetic performance.

After a rollicking from the skipper that tore paint from the walls, Windsor were set a task, 10 wickets, no matter what. Luckily, youngster Ben Harris (5/91) answered the call as he removed to first 4 wickets inside the first 6 overs of the match. A wicket to Nichols (2/57) and a run out from a direct hit from the skipper had Eversley 6/30 and looking at another defeat.

From here Windsor witnessed a great rear guard action from Eversley skipper Ben Saville (105) as he fought tooth and nail to get closer to the total. But a magnificent catch from the dependable Kemp changed the complexion of the game, as the redoubtable Mohindru (2/24), came on with the new ball the remove Saville and take the 10th wicket to secure another 25pt win.

Windsor travel to Cove next weekend, where a similar performance be unacceptable in trying to secure its 3rd win on the trot...

WINDSOR BACK INTO WINNING WAYS

2009-07-20T17:53:00.006Z

Skipper Wes Nichols leads from the front claimed 5/22 and

scoring 70* as Windsor edge closer to the title

WINDSOR 225/6
Mark Huggins 85
Wes Nichols 70*

defeated

CHISWICK 143
Wes Nichols 5/22

After last weeks unlucky episode with the rain, Windsor hosted rivals Chiswick. Rain tipped down on the Friday, but luckily the much maligned Windsor CC covers did an adequate job and upon winning the toss, Nichols decided to have a bat.

The home side was soon in trouble, as openers Chana (1) and Birch (8) departed with the score less than 20. The 17 year old Nair (17) came and went till Huggins (85) and Nichols (70*) shared a 100+ partnership that managed to withstand the Chiswick assault on a difficult batting surface.

Huggins in particular was superb belting the ball like only he can to all corners and a much deserved 100 looked a forgone conclusion until a rush of blood quashed what would have been a well deserved tonne. It was a shame, as he has really matured as a batsmen in the last year, cutting a lot of recklessness out of his game, but he still has a little way to go till he really reaches his full potential.

A much more sedate Nichols continued to probe singles and rotate the strike and with San Jose (19) pushed the total to 225.

Windsor then looked to attack from the outset, but with the much vaunted spin attack both having an off day with the ball, runs came a plenty. Harris (1/57) did manage to claim the dangerous Bhatia, as Nichols got the key wicket of Panta bowled, with his 1st ball to him.

A change of tact meant that Nichols (5/22) and the introduction of Hartridge (3/21) would pull the game back into the homes sides favour. The wicket of Vandenburg was the catalyst that saw Windsor engulf the Chiswick middle/lower order and another 25 point win was completed in the 38th over.

Windsor play host to Eversley next week, as Windsor hope to start another run of wins that will strengthen their position at the top of the TVL.

WINDSOR STUNG BY THE RAIN...

2009-07-14T08:33:00.003Z

Weston gets 50* as Windsor are

denied by the rain at Basingstoke

WINDSOR 229/7
Adam Weston 50*
Michael Gould 58

drew with

BASINGSTOKE 68/4

Windsor travelled to Basingstoke on the weekend in dour conditions hoping but not expecting a full days play to extend their lead in the TVL.

The weather was holding out amid grey skies and upon winning the toss, Nichols opted to bat. It was an interesting innings of 3 thirds as Gould (58) and Birch (48) stacked on the runs as the drizzle began to sleet down. This then made conditions quite difficult to bat as Windsor then went on to lose 6 for 35! With the ball seaming everywhere, Windsor found it hard as the sleet started to pour down. From here though, the ball got water-logged which meant Weston (50*), who was superb and in a timely return to form Hartridge (23) managed to take back the advantage. San Jose (33*) came out and played his most mature innings of the season thus far, to push the total to 229/7.

After a basic tea, Windsor then looked to attack and had the home team in trouble early on. With Nichols (3/28) knocking over the top order supported by Harris (1/10), Windsor were confident they could secure another 25pt win, but with the constant drizzle now causing concern with the umpires, Windsor had to settle for a 12pt draw in the 23rd over and rue what could have been, had the elements been kinder.

Windsor play host to Chiswick on the weekend, and will be looking for a good performance to extend their lead in the TVL.

WINDSOR ONCE AGAIN CANT MATCH IT WITH DATCHET...

2009-07-06T10:16:00.004Z

The ageless Mohindru was best performed of the

Windsor attack as they go down to Datchet

DATCHET 8/260
Mohindru 4/45

defeated

WINDSOR 128

In a much needed wake up call, Windsor where comprehensively out played by a far superior Datchet side over the weekend. Upon losing the toss, Windsor toiled for their first 52 over stint of the season in the field and struggled to penetrate on the fabulous batting pitch.

Only Mohindru (4/45) could get momentum as Tilly (97) anchored the home sides innings in a real skippers knock as as Harris (2/75) and Nichols (1/38) chimed in the the other scalps.

Windsor needed someone in the top 4 to get a 100 but sadly Birch (17), Nichols (33), Nair (19) and Huggins (22) all got starts but were not good enough to go on with it. Windsors feeble under belly was brutally exposed as another pathetic middle/lower order performance then lost 7/25 to succumb to their 2nd loss of the season. It was a case of Windsor lying down and players not putting a very high price on their wicket.

Windsor frailty against spin was also highlighted as Aldiss (5/44) and Tilley (4/74) had a field day against a clueless bottom half.

Apart from the performance of Mohindru, the only highlight of the game was the great banter and spirit between the two sides after the game, as both sides drank together till dark. Even if it meant seeing all the Datchet lads in matching underwear.

Windsor travel to Basingstoke who are 2nd on the ladder, and will need to put this dire performance behind them if they are going to compete against one of the better sides in the league.

WINDSOR MAKE IT 7 ON THE TROT!

2009-06-29T09:27:00.005Z

Windsor stroke spin weapon in Ben Harris

finally shown as he destroys Finch taking 7/32

WINDSOR 170
Bevan Malloch 55

defeated

FINCHAMPSTEAD 45
Ben Harris 7/32

Windsor played host to Finchampstead on the weekend and with both side filling 2 of the top 3 spots on the ladder, a tough encounter was expected. Nichols happily won the toss and batted first in quite warm conditions.

After the side came back from skippers Stag in Brighton the day before, the team was most pleased with the result. Non more than the skipper, who could be said, still had the shakes...

Sadly though that's as good as it got for Windsor in the first part of the game, as they lost 4 wickets for 9 runs inside 5 overs! Luckily for them Birch (47) and Malloch (55) steadied the ship and a score of 200+ would have been on the cards if Windsors lower order could have found someone to hang around with Kemp (14*). In the end they had to settle for 170 off 38 overs.

Windsor then looked to attack from the get go with Nichols (3/7) knocking over both openers inside 3 overs. It was then left to Ben Harris (7/32) to dominate the game providing a masterclass in off-spin bowling to hand Windsor a 25 pt win.

Windsor next week take on local rivals Datchet. Windsor must do alot better with the bat if they are going to be any chance of competing with this very strong Datchet side.

WINDSOR MAKE IT SIX IN A ROW!

2009-06-21T14:56:00.003Z

Hartridge 4/36 with his pace and bounce was too

much for Bagshot on the weekend

BAGSHOT 116
T Hartridge 4/36

defeated by

WINDSOR 6/118
A Weston 41*

Windsor travelled to Bagshot to try their best to extend their run in the TVL. The infamous Bagshot strip with ridges on both lengths and an up down appearance, meant the skipper was delighted to lose the toss! As such Bagshot elected to bat.

Windsor started well with the sublime Kemp lidding a Bagshot batsmen as Nichols (3/30) managed to chip in with wickets. It was then Hartridge (4/36) and Malloch (2/12) who cleaned up the Bagshot middle order on a difficult wicket to score on. When Mohindru (1/5) picked up the final scalp Bagshot were all out 116 in the 33rd over.

In reply Nichols (22) and Birch (17) set about getting the chase finished early. Huggins (21) had similar ideas but Bagshot hung in taking a few wickets to keep things interesting. It was Weston (41*) who guided Windsor home to another win in the 22nd over.

Next week Windsor play host to the formidable Finchampstead. Once again they will need to be at their best to take the points.

WINDSOR MAKE IT 5 IN A ROW!!

2009-06-15T08:57:00.003Z

"When do i get bowl?"

Mohindru strikes a familiar pose as he personally

accounts for Beac's on the weekend claiming 7/26

BEACONSFIELD 136
Rah Mohindru 7/26

defeated by

WINDSOR 5/137
Oliver Birch 67*

Windsor where lucky enough to keep their unbeaten run in tact this weekend with a gritty 5 wicket win over Beaconsfield.

Having lost the toss, Windsor had to bowl where Kemp and Nichols struggled to contain the batting onslaught. It was not until Mohindru (7/26) entered the fray in the 11th over that the first breakthru was made at 59. With Hartridge (2/19) introduced at the other end, both players bowled superbly in partnership knocking over the Beaconsfield side for 136 in the 33rd over. The total contradicted the fact that Windsor where a little sloppy in the field, and lucky Mohindru could turn up and bowl the spell of the seasun this far...

In reply Windsor lost wickets and made a pretty easy target difficult, fortunatelyBirch (67*) and San Jose (33*) where immune to this and put on the match breaking partnership that secured Windsor the victory.

Windsor has alot of repsect for the Beaconsfield side as they have had to wood on them for the last few seasons, so it was a very pleasing win.

Windsor travel to Bagshot next week, where an improvements all around will be needed to secure another victory.

WINDSOR MAKE IT FOUR!!

2009-06-07T11:36:00.005Z

Wes Nichols falls 1 run short of a well deserved 100

as Windsor knock off Marlow

WINDSOR 9/207 (39 Overs)
Wes Nichols 99

defeated

MARLOW 82 (29.2 Over)
Brendan Kemp 4/25

Windsor travelled to Marlow amid dour conditions expecting not to play on Saturday. Showers hovering all night and morning didn't give much hope of play but a break i the weather did eventuate and the game was reduced to 39/35 affair.

Windsor lost the toss and where sent in and managed to set an impressive 207, amid quite difficult conditions. Sadly Nichols (99) was run out again trying to score his 100th run, and was well supported by Birch (21), Weston (30) and Huggins (31) as they formed crucial partnerships with the skipper, some thing was missing the previous week.

Not expecting to knock the home sides quality batting over in such a small amount of time, Windsor where confident of at least restricting them to the total set. But all that changed when Kemp (4/25) bowled his best spell of the season on the bouncing seaming wicket to cut the heart out of the Marlow top order. With Nichols (2/32) getting the prize scalp of Paskins at the other end and Tom Hartridge (2/12) bowling some genuine gas, Malloch (2/12) was left the wrap up the game for Windsor with 8 5 overs remaining.

Windsor next week play host to the quality Beaconsfield, and must replicate this same kind of effort to keep the run going.

WINDSOR MAKE IT THREE IN A ROW!

2009-06-01T20:26:00.003Z

Wes Nichols top scored with 73 as Windsor

accounted for Cove on the weekend

WINDSOR 213
Wes Nichols 73
Adam Weston 55

Defeated

COVE 2's 115

Windsor were fortunate enough to continue their winning run on the weekend as they played host to Cove.

Windsor won the toss and batted first on a pristine batting surface, but really fell short in being dismissed for 213 in 50 overs. It was a feeble effort from the middle/lower order as Nichols (73) and Birch (28) put on an opening stand of 87 after 20 overs. Only Weston (55) can hold his head high as Windsors middle order failed to take advantage of the outstanding conditions.

Luckily Windsors bowling did not misfire as Kemp (1/16), Hartridge (2/6) and Malloch (1/12) did the early damage. It was then the spinners turn to get some overs under their belt after missing out in the last 2 games, as Mohindru (3/32) and the outstanding 18 year old Harris (3/27) who seems to be able to turn a ball on any surface square finished things off in the 40th over.

Windsor travel to Marlow next week who are certain to be very difficult to tame on their home ground, but fingers crossed Windsor can continue the good form and put in a good effort to extend the good run in the TVL.

TWO ON THE TROT!!!

2009-05-23T22:15:00.003Z

Oliver Birch top scored with 58 as

Windsor beat Eversley

WINDSOR 8/229
Birch 58
Malik 50

Defeated

EVERSLEY 98

Windsor manged to make it 2 on the trot as they managed to beat impressive new side Eversley away on Saturday.

Upon being sent in, Birch (58) started getting back in the runs, and it was a partnership with Malik (50) that formed the backbone of the total. Weston (27) and San Jose (13) managed to keep the score board ticking, but it was the partnership between Kemp (24) and Harris (23*) that really broke Eversleys back, as Windsor transformed a score of 200 to 229.

Eversley got off to a dreadful start as Nichols (4/38) claimed both openers in the first over. Brilliantly supported by Kemp (3/25), Windsor can now boast one of the better opening attacks in the league, as their pace and bounce reduced Eversley to a sub 100 score.

Malloch (3/11) deserved to clean up the tail as Windsor celebrated 50 points in 2 weeks!

Windsor now are hoping to make it 3 in a row as they play guest to Cove 2's at home next week.

WINDSOR GET FIRST WIN

2009-05-17T15:35:00.004Z

Wes Nichols managed to destroy Chiswick

claiming a match winning 6/36

WINDSOR 137/8 (48 Overs)

defeated

Chiswick & Latymer 98 (39 Overs)
W.Nichols 6/36

Windsor managed to grab their first win in the TVL in 2009 against Chiswick at Whitton. Heavy showers during the week and morning of the game made batting difficult as Windsor having been sent in, lost both openers cheaply. It was left again to Nichols (26) and Malik (22) to steady the ship as Weston (40*) managed to pull the total to a defendable 137.

With the sun now shining and gusting winds flattening out the pitch, Windsor needed to take their chances. Luckily they managed to take advantage of what little life was left in the wicket early on as Kemp (3/26) and Nichols (6/36), managed to repel Chicwicks advances.

All chances offered were taken by Windsor as Hartridge (1/3) took the final scalp that hopefully can set up a winning sequence for them!

Windsor travel to Eversley next week and fingers crossed they will get to bat on a descent surface which can able them to score a bit more than 140, like in previous weeks!!!

DEJA VU AS WINDSOR FAIL AGAIN IN THE LEAGUES FIRST ROUND...

2009-05-12T11:02:00.003Z

Brendon Kemp managed to top score with 42*

in Windsors first round loss

WINDSOR 7/137 (52 Overs)

Lost to

BASINGSTOKE & NHT's 6/140 (43 Overs)

Windsor lost their first game of the season in the TVL to Basingstoke on the weekend. Batting first they had to endure some disciplined bowling on what could on be described as a very sub-par pitch, that incidentally got very low marks from both skippers and umpires!!!

Nichols (14) and Malik (18) laboured to get the score to 51 after 26 overs! Before Kemp (42*), Weston (30) and George (13*) managed to take advantage of some wickets in hand to get a competitive 137 on the board.

Windsor had to take all their chances to win and Nichols (2/31) and Harris (3/57) had the visitors on the ropes at 4/25 after 6 overs, and a courageous defence looked a chance. But they missed a crucial opportunity to make that 5/30 and that was really it in the end as the Basingstoke batters took the life given and guided the side amid difficult batting conditions to the target with 4 overs remaining and 4 wickets in hand.

The fact that only 270 runs where scored in 90 odd overs tells the story, as 137 was a defendable score on the up and down pitch, but Windsor needed to be perfect in the field , and they weren't, as such fully deserved to lose to the better side.

Windsor travel to Chiswick next week and hope to get the seasons first win under their belt.

WINDSOR GETS WIN ON THE BOARD

2009-05-05T09:18:00.005Z

No more lay ins on Saturdays now Oliver! Cricket

season has started!!!

BOYNE HILL 177 all out

defeated by

WINDSOR 4/181
Malloch 61*

Windsor managed to jag a win int he last friendly of the season by knocking off local rivals Boyne Hill at Home Park on Saturday.

Windsor won the toss and sent Boyne Hill in as Windsor looked to get more form chasing targets. Despite a fine start and a lone hand from Pike, Windsor got the better of Boyne Hill as Mohindru (3/35), Nichols (3/54) and Hartridge (2/23) shared the spoils.

An amusing highlight of the innings though was Nichols giving ex Windsor player Tim Smith a lesson on fast bowling! The over included a smashing 4 through cover, followed by a ferocious bouncer that had Smith on the seat of his pants, followed by more of the same for the next 3 balls (including Tim tripping over his feet to square leg!) It concluded with Smiths leg stump being uprooted out of the gorund!

Malloch and Harris looked good in their return to 1st team cricket and Kemp can probably lay claim to being the unluckiest bowler in the TVL not claiming a scalp!

The chase started poorly with Birch, Malloch, Lines and Nichols falling before the scoreboard got to 40! But the middle order of Weston (39*) and Malloch (61*) surveyed conditions well and safely got the home side home with overs to spare. It was the first 100 partnership in the 1st team since 2007! Many more partnerships like that will be required to give the title a shake in 2009.

Windsor plays host to Basingstoke in the first TVL game of the 2009 season and an unchanged line up is hoping to get the title chase off to an impressive start.

WINDSOR JUST FALL SHORT AGAINST LOCALS RIVALS...

2009-04-27T08:35:00.004Z

Windsor skipper Wes Nichols get his first 100 for the season

as they just fall short against Datchet

DATCHET 9/267 (52 Overs)

drew with

WINDSOR 9/246 (48 Overs)
Wes Nichols 100*

In a lively match where over 500 runs where scored in 100 overs of cricket, Windsor just fell short in there run chase by 20 odd runs on Saturday.

Having won the toss, the skipper sent Datchet in when Kemp and Hartridge reaffirmed their new ball status. Nichols having his first roll off the long run of the season ably supported Mohindru (3/41) as Windsor kept Datchet to a par total on that pitch.

The run chase got off to a dreadful start with a wicket lost in the first over, and it wasn't until Malik and Nichols (100*) joined at the crease in the 17th over, any resistance was shown. Sadly though Windsor struggled to find anyone to bat with the skipper for any length of time as Malik (26), San Jose (22), Hartridge and Kemp fell when partnerships where required to be any chance of chasing down the score in the last half of the innings.

Windsor probably needed to be more enthusiastic in the field as Datchet piled on run on a supreme batting surface.

Next week sees 1st team regulars Malloch and Harris available. Windsor plays host to Boyne Hill where the mistakes with the bat of the previous 2 weeks hope to be remedied.

WINDSOR KICK OFF 2009 V EGHAM

2009-04-20T08:20:00.003Z

Mohindru and Birch have got their 2009 seasons

off to reasonable starts with runs and wickets

EGHAM 8/164 53 overs

drew with

WINDSOR 8/151 47 overs

In Windsors first trial of the season they played reasonable cricket to just fall short against the 2008 Middlesex 3rd Division Champions Egham at Egham on Saturday.

Skipper, Wes Nichols won the toss and exlected to bowl on a sluggish wicket where opening bowlers Kemp (0/23) and Condon (1/23) did well in their first hit out. Great support was provided by Hartridge (1/20) who managed to get a few to kick on the dour deck and Malloch (2/16), who in his first bowl looked great.

Windsor spin attack minus Ben Harris, who is due back this week did well on the slow surfice as Lines (2/16), Nichols (2/16) and Mohindru (0/23) all contained opposition batsmen well while chipping on for a few wickets no break any real partnerships.

The fielding was exceptional, save for a few glitches that are to be expected this early into the season and the skipper was elated with the effort put in by all.

Chasing the 164 was expected to be easy and Windsor got off to a great start until after a Birch (20) off drive, the brand new ball was gobbled up by a dog! this brought on the older ball as a replacement, and Windsor really struggled with the slower pace. There where a few partnerships though as Malik (20), Nichols (26), San Jose (22) and Riches (16*) all got starts but struggled to take advatage on the difficult surface and thus just falling short of the total.

It was a pleasing first hit out for the side that looks better than 2008 already. With the side missing players like Millman, Bird, Chorley, Huggins, Harris and Gregory the younger lads proved that their losses will not be felt in the short term as Windsor looks to began a new era and challenge for the TVL Div 2 title...

POST SEASON REVIEW

2008-09-17T08:28:00.003Z

1st XI Player's Player - Wes Nichols

At the beginning of the season, skipper Wes Nichols had 3 goals, to consolidate his side, bring in fresh faces and press for improvement from 2007. He knew the season would start slowly, he knew it was going to be very competitive but with an influx of youth, he hoped the back end of the season would reap the benefits.

The season began with losses to Datchet, Maidenhead & Bray and a lossing draw to Marlow. Not a bad start against the 'better' sides in the competition. Those three games also saw the emergance of Oliver Birch scoring his maiden 100 in his now customary role of opening batsmen.

A near miss against Chiswick claiming 15 pts and a training mishap that left Millman with a broken nose were the precursers to a forgettable performance against Basingstoke resulting in the sides 3rd loss in 5 games.

With numerous players unavailable for this game it gave the younger guys a chance to prove thier worth. Unfortunately it was realised some of these youngsters were not ready...

As such changes where made for the game against Farnham Royal, which resulted in the sides 1st win of the season. Once again worse was to follow the week after with Windsor putting in their worst performance of the season lossing to Beaconfield and getting rolled for 86 in the process.

The side had hit rock bottom.

Selectors reviewed their plans and Windsor brought in more experience for the game against Finchampstead, which recorded the sides 2nd win. Windsor were more than lucky enough to ride on the coat tails of Michael Gould whose cameo set up a winning draw against rivals Burnham.

At the halfway mark Windsor were only just out of the relegation zone and needed a much better 2nd half to claw there way out.

The next 3 weeks saw Windsor play some of the best cricket they have done in years. A poor batting performance on a water logged pitch was turned into a winnable target via superb bowling and astute captaincy, as Windsor beat Datchet at home to claim 25 points. Mohindru claiming 5/6 off 7 overs finishing off the opposition.

Windsor than travelled to Marlow and on the back of the seasons best knock from Bird, posted 234, which was too many for Marlow as Harris, Malloch and Nichols shared the wickets to give Windsor two 25pt wins on the trot...

A tie against champions Maidenhead & Bray was highlighted by the emergance of Ben Harris as a potent spin pairing to Mohindru, as he took 6/87 off 18 overs. Not bad for a 17 year old!

Windsor were solidly forced into mid table and another 2 near misses against Chiswick and Farnham Royal, having them 9 and 8 down respectivly harmed any future progress... A losing draw against bogey side Beaconsfield was remedied a week later with an emphatic win against Finchamptead away, assuring Windsors place in 5th position.

A dead rubber against rivals Burnham resulted in a loss but the work was already done.

The second half of the season was the key to Windsor rivival where they claimed 157 pts in 9 games at an average of 17.4 pts a game.

Malloch was superb at finishing innings off and often was the sole reason the side would post 200+ rather than 200 shy totals. It would have been very easy for the selectors to push him up the order, but with him being so important to the lower order, he really shown as the best finsher in the league. Next season he will get his chances up the order as new players come in to take his 'old' role...

With Birch, Bird and Nichols all scoring heavily at the back end, new players introduced like Nair, Riches, Lines and Weston managed to chip in a vital times.

Birch was a revelation as the left hander carved his way to 3 fifties and a 100. His attacking impetous put oppostion sides on the back foot early on.

Bird was all class as his swiped his way to 300+ league runs none more important than the 114 he scored at Marlow setting up the win. his combination with Birch is something that hopefully will last for a few more years yet! His fielding at times was also inspiration as the portly balding doyan threw himself around like Tim Smiths stockings saving runs.

Nichols often found himself batting down at 8 he pushed reasponsibilty to other members of the side, to varying benefits! He did step up when the pressure was on though like against Marlow on a wetty and Chiswick on a green top. Next season will see him restored up the order to his more familiar role bridging the innings.

The bowling that used to centre around Nichols and Mohindru evolved as Harris, Gregory and Malloch emerged. With Hartridge and Kellard getting chances they will be better off for 2009.

Harris was a handful on anything that turned and with ultra attacking fields managed to make most bats feel umcomfortable. The balls that dismissed Bashir and Khan from Maids were great examples of this.

Mohindru tasted a week in the 2nd XI early on in the season but from here never looked back, chipping away at opposition batting. His guile and experience is a crucial factor in Windsor performance late in the season.

Nichols and Malloch shared the seam duties and with 2009 coming, will be looking for additional support from either Hartridge, Gregory or Sam Condon, dependant on who can put their hand up in the pre-season...

The one thing that was a massive difference to 2007 was the fielding. Selectors decided early on not to select poor feilders, blokes who let others down in the feild.

With players like Birch, Lines, Malloch, Harris and Nichols patrolling the feild, catches seldom went down (save for a a couple of games!) and proved a massive difference from 2007 where catches where shelled often. Meaning the bowlers would not have create as many chances. The slips catching of Malloch was a massive highlight as was some of the unbelievable outfield catches from Ben Harris.

In round up the massive improvment in the squad from game 1 to game 18 was remarkable, as they learnt what it took to play good cricket. Unfortunately some players where pushed aside after the 1st half and placed in the 2nd team to work on their games, players like Chana, Kellard, Riches and Hartridge will be mich better for that experience in 2009.

2009 will be a massive one for the side with easily 20+ players capable of playing in the top grade, competition for spots will be high. If Windsor can replicate the same form from late 2008, they will be in with a massive shout!

2008 AVERAGES AND AWARDS

1st XI Captains Player - Oliver Birch
1st XI Players Player - Wes Nichols

Batting
Oliver Birch - 507 runs @ 31.69 (100 x 1, 50 x 3)
Craig Bird - 337 runs @ 30.64 (100 x 1, 50 x 2)
Wes Nichols - 331 runs @ 23.64 (50 x 2)
Andy Chorley - 290 runs @ 20.71
Bevan Malloch - 286 runs @ 31.78 (50 x 1)
Adam Weston - 210 runs @ 30.00 (50 x 1)

Bowling
Wes Nichols - 56 wickets @ 14.20 (4 x 5W)
Rah Mohindru - 33 wickets @ 17.91 (1 x 5W)
Bevan Malloch - 23 wickets @ 27.13
Ben Harris - 17 wickets @ 33.24 (1 x 5W)
Richard Gregory - 7 wickets @ 24.29

Catches
9 - Oliver Birch, Ben Harris
8 - Rick Baumgartner*
7 - Bevan Malloch
4 - Wes Nichols, Andy Chorley, Adam Weston, Mark Lines

* Best wicket keeper with 11 dismmissals (8 catches and 3 stumpings)

BURNHAM BRUSH WINDSOR

2008-09-08T11:51:00.002Z

WINDSOR 147 all out (7 POINTS)
Birch 77

defeated by

BURNHAM 183 all out (25 POINTS)
Gregory 4/49

Amid terrible conditions that were on par with a terrible August, Windsor played host to friendly local rivals Burnham. the game in itself was a 'dead rubber' with Burnham already consigned to demotion into Division 3 for 2009, and Windsor playing for 3rd spot.

In reality the conditions where awful, and if the game was not a dead rubber, play would not of been attempted, but with nothing to loss. and the fact that a match abandonment would be a empty way to finish the season, both skipper decided to their credit to play anyway, knowing that the winner of the toss would almost certainly win the game!

In a total reversal, Windsor having lost only 4 tosses all season lost the toss! Burnham who had only won 3 tosses in 2008 has no hesitation to take advantage of a wet pudding of a track to bat.

Burnhams openers took a liking to the turgid conditions where bowlers got no value for bending their back with the new ball. They got off to a flier scoring 50 runs off the first 7 overs! Gregory finally got a breakthrough with skipper Nichols holding onto one at cover to have Burnham at 1/70 off 11.

Gregory (4/49) bowled an inspired spell, in hardly bowling friendly conditions to take the next 3 wickets LBW and caught behind and with Nichols claiming the danger man Rehman (47) to a juggling act by Riches at gully, Windsor looked in really good shape at 5/110.

From here Burnham really dug in and Bashir in particular took a distinct liking to Mohindru as he proceeded to hit 12 off one over. Burnham looked to really be heading for a total of 200+ until Malloch got the breakthrough with Nichols diving forward at 1st slip to remove Bashir and hopefully stemming the flow of runs.

It was not to be, as skipper Asif starting pinching boundaries that kept the score board ticking. Nichols (2/48) managed to claim one more wicket and Malloch (3/58) another 2, and Burnham where bowled out in the 45th over for 186.

It was a mixed result for the homeside. Windsor were very guilty complacency at times in the field with the hard conditions making life tough for the seamers, it was all the advantage the visitors needed to get 150+

With the pitch now looking like a battle field with divots everywhere from the ball having dried up, Windsor had to bat very well to be any chance of claiming a 20 point win.

Burnhams skipper Asif applied the very same formula that his opposing skipper wanted to do if he won the toss by taking the old ball and opening with spin. It had the desired affect as Chorley fell in the 5th over to a mis-timed drive with Windsor 1/7

Nichols then joined Birch who played a majestic innings hitting the bowling to all parts as he swash buckled his way to a good score. With Nichols merely rotating strike to an inform Birch, the partnership reached 50 in no time. Birch than brought up his 50 with a trademark swipe through cover.

The ginger headed caviller watched at the other end as the pitch began to play its first tricks as Nichols (15) was adjudged LBW to one that rolled off a divot to make Windsor in the box seat at 2/79. Nair (0) than was caught at midwicket off a ball that this time held up, the same fate as Weston (0) who mirrored the same dismissal. Both bats were extremely unhappy with themselves as playing across the line so early on on a deck like that was always going to end poorly!

Riches (11) than cracked a few shots around until he was caught behind and Birch who was seemingly on course for a well deserved 100 was bowled leaving Windsor at 6/119.

Malloch like he has done all season steadied the ship well, playing the testing conditions with ease. George (0) marked his first bat in the 1st team with golden duck hitting the ball right back to Asif.

Gregory (14) who along with Mohindru (13) hit same lovel boundaries to get the score close 150 and 8 points that would confirm 4th spot but both fell with the score short on 142. Malloch then was clean bowled by the talented Bashir to give the demoted side something to cheer about claiming their 1st 25 point win of the season! Much to their celebration...

Windsor however where very poor with the bat. too many false shots suggested they where not up to the challenge and with conditions against them, the end of the season nigh and not really much to play for, it was just the tonic they needed to give in and award Burnham a well deserved win.

It was a bitter way to end the season, but all in all a good one for Windsor. At the half way mark they where placed dead in the relegation zone and on the back of some superb wins against Datchet & Marlow, managed to build confidence and turn in a great purple patch of form that helped turn it all around.

Players like Nair, Harris, Line and Riches all took their chances and the fact they are all under 20 proves that the plans at seasons beginning to blood the youngsters was the right one.

With lads like Hartridge, Kellard, Chana and Malik also under 21 and proving to be star performers in the 2nd XI the future looks very bright indeed.

In the next few season these are the lads who need to step up, as its their shoulders the clubs advancement will be based upon. They will join the established players like Birch, Mohindru, Bird, Nichols and Malloch who form the nucleus of the side now to try and advance this 1st team to bigger and better things.

Next week sees a hybrid side of these youngsters taking on Braywood in the East Berks Twenty/20 Final at Braywood. Having won the league, they are very keen to claim the trophy and the club would appreciate all supporters turning out to get behind them so they can finished 2008 in style. Fingers crossed we can have something to celebrate at the Windsor CC Ball next Saturday night!

WINDSOR WALLOP FINCH!!!

2008-09-01T14:15:00.002Z

WINDSOR 215/5 (25 POINTS)
Weston 71*

defeated

FINCHAMPSTEAD 152 all out (5 POINTS)
Nichols 5/38
Mohindru 4/13 (including a hat-trick)

On the back of a dour but gritty draw the week previous, Windsor travelled to Finchampstead hoping to secure more points to help them in their quest to secure 3rd spot on the league table.

Windsor made some minor adjustments to their side with wicketkeeper batsmen Chris George slotting in and all-rounder Richard Gregory strengthening a batting line up that in previous weeks had failed to capitalise on getting starts.

Windsor bucked the trend of recent visits at the ground and decided to bat first. Finch where obviously not to worried about this and set about knocking over Birch (0) in the second over of the match.

Finch's openers bowled a consistent spell on a hard wicket that early on seamed around prolifically. Cowan in particular proved his usefulness having Chorley caught off a no-ball and beating the batsmens outside edge countless times.

Chorley (3) succumb to Jubb meaning that Nichols and Riches where left to consolidate the innings. Amid some consistent bowling on a sporting pitch, both bats found their feet and slowly began rebuilding the innings. At drinks, the partnership had reached 70 and Windsor where 2/86.

Just as Riches (25)was coming to terms with the conditions, he was bowling trying to pull. Windsor then lost Nichols (38) caught at fine leg on the pull soon after. Weston and Lines where left to push the total upwards of 100 and done so in style as the pitch flattened out amid the hot conditions, much to the batsmens delight.

With the score on 4/150 Lines (22) popped a disappointing return catch to Whiteman. From here Weston and new batsmen Malloch paced the innings to perfection. they took all the singles on offer hit the odd boundary in an absolute masterclass of end of innings batting.

Weston brought up his 50 with a 6 over mid on and in the last few overs, Windsor past the magical 200 mark. At the end of 52 overs Windsor had struck 5/215 with Weston unbeaten on 71 and Malloch a fine 31*

Finch's batting started very well. Some inconsistent bowling allowed Finch to get off to a flier. With Brogan seaming having a magnet on his pads balls flew to the boundary and after 7 overs the 50 was up!

Windsor were probably thinking this was going to be a short stay in the field and where relieved when Malloch got the breakthrough claiming Ward caught at cover by Lines for 17.

Nichols then introduced himself and proved a week is a long time in cricket by cartwheeling new batsmen's and previous weeks century maker Bell's off stump for a duck. An over later after Brogan brought up his 50, Nichols cartwheeled his off stump and Windsor looked back in the game pushing Finch to 3/80.

The partnership of Loveday and Brown was going to be crucial for both sides. Young off-spinner Ben Harris was introduced and tied the two veterans up superbly while Nichols probed away at the other end, in the middle of a quick spell.

It was the skipper who got the prized wicket of Loveday with a false shot catching the edge and landing sweetly in the awaiting gloves of George who had flown across 1st slip to take the chance! The celebration was worthy of centre stage in West-End, a sign of the respect for the Finch stalwart and his ability, as Windsor could see the the chance to go through the home side.

The 'Ice Man' Mohindru was introduced to replace Harris, and the skipper could not have dreamed for a better result. Birch took a terrific catch at deep square to claim Ansell and Malloch took a fine catch diving at fly slip to claim Cowies scalp. Two wickets in two balls! Nichols then began his over and destroyed the castle of Whiteman, to which Mohindru, 1st ball of the next over completed a hat-trick with Smith out caught by Birch again, to a magnificent diving catch.

The tail for Finch could not resist the Windsor attack as Monhindru got his 4th wicket with George stumping Alexander, and Nichols wrapped up the innings claiming his 5th wicket bowling his 4th victim Jubb, to gain a well deserved 25 Point win...

The best part of the day for Windsor was the massive improvement to the way they batted. Nichols and Riches where key to stabilizing the innings after some great bowling from Cowie, taking the score close to 100. but Weston was the star, who with Malloch turned a meek beginning into an extremely profitable 215.

The work and effort in the field was sublime from Windsor with the likes of Birch, Lines throwing there bodies around and helping to apply pressure. The performance of Nichols and Mohindru is directly attributed to their attitude in the field, with out them it would have been a lot harder.

With a higher standing up the ladder still on offer Windsor will be looking to finish the season in style against local rivals Burnham. It will be the last time in a while that Windsor get to play them, so here's hoping we can make the most of it!

WINDSOR GRIND OUT DRAW

2008-08-26T09:16:00.002Z

WINDSOR 6/162 (48 overs) 6 POINTS

drew with

BEACONSFEILD 7/209 (52 overs) 13 POINTS

Windsor played host to Beaconsfeild on Saturday and the fresh in their minds was the pummelling they received 10 weeks earlier from the same side. Desperate for the same embarrassment not to occur again, Windsor placed great importance on this fixture and went into the game with a cautious attitude.

Windsor however lost the toss and Beaconsfeild decided to bat on a very batsmen friendly wicket. It was not until the 10th over, Windsor got the breakthrough via Nichols in the form of 2 wickets in two balls to leave Beaconfeild 2/35.

It was tough going for the quicks as Beaconsfeild batsmen kept the score ticking, courtesy of some great running between the wickets.

Just after the drinks break Mohindru was introduced and this lead to another couple of wickets, but Windsor could no put the breaks on the oppositions run flow as Sutner in particular kept rotating strike.

Mohindru eventually picked him up for 70, Harris then picked up the dangerous Alexander and Windsor looked to have Beaconsfeild well contained to within 200. Beaconsfeilds tail wagged however and some great shots from Owen, Sullivan and Farnham meant that their side cruised to 209 in the 52nd over.

On a belter of a wicket, Windsors bowlers done well, in particular Nichols (3/29 off 14 overs) and Mohindru (3/31 off 14 overs). they where very shabby in the field in the field at times. A worrying trend for the skipper in recent weeks, and something that must be amended.

The target was within Windsors reach, but they needed someone in the top 4 to stand up and play a big knock if they where to achieve it, similar to Sutners performance earlier in the day.

That however was not to be, as Windsor ended up at 4/86 after 23 overs. Charters (12) was caught at 2nd slip trying to run one down to the 3rd man boundary, Bird (37) was caught at cover, Nair (4) followed the same fate and Chorley (11) was adjudged LBW.

It was then left to Nichols and Riches to try and salvage something from the innings. Riches (17)played some aggresive shots, but was LBW to a Taylor inswinger after the drinks break.

Murray (3) could not stem the flow of wickets either as he fell by the wayside, so it was left up Malloch and Nichols, who having bowled 32 of the sides 52 overs between them, to salvage the game.

Both withstood some fine bowling from Sullivan and Owen to negotiate the remaining 12 overs, and picked up some valuable bonus points reaching 150, before pulling Windsor to safety. Nichols finished on 28* and Malloch in a fine cameo reached 31*

The lack of any real partnership outside of Nichols and Malloch was the key to Windsor being unable to really challenge the visitors total. In saying that, Owen and Sullivan who with Wilson bowled very well to restrict the home side and from this come level on the Division 2A table.

Windsor travel to Finchampstead next week, which is a very happy hunting ground. Bowling first, Windsor have went through the home side in the last 2 visits over there since 2006, and with an extra seamer in Richard Gregory selected in the side, are looking to do more of the same.

LADY LUCK SCROWLS AT HAPLESS WINDSOR!

2008-08-21T09:52:00.003Z

WINDSOR 6/231
Birch 62

drew with

FARNHAM ROYAL 8/178
Nichols 5/60 (20 overs)

With similar weather as the previous weeks washout predicted by the BBC weather bureau all week, it was with pleasing surprise that the rain gods stayed away and Windsor could dust off the cobwebs to take on Farnham Royal.

With the heavy down pours during the week creating dampness in the wicket, the game was delayed for a few minutes. upon winning the toss Nichols decided to bat.

Windsor got off to a solid start scoring 50 off the first 15 overs for no loss, until Bird (29) tried to go big again, after hitting a 6 over point a couple of balls previous in the over to hole out to mid on. Chorley (8) was disspointed to follow a similar fate leaving Windsor 2/90 after 20 overs.

Youngster Nair steadied the ship as Birch taking advantage of a flattening wicket started to play his shots and Windsor took drinks at the 26th over 2/130.

After the break, Birch than decided he didnt really want to score a 100, and played a loose shot to end what should have been his 2nd 100 of the season.

Nichols (23) and Nair looked to consolidate and with 15 overs remaining had taking the score to 3/180. Nichols fell trying to push the rate bringing Malloch to the crease as he also played some shots to get the total past 200.

Bevan (27) was then bowled around his legs by Singh, who had 4 wickets by now, and Weston (21*)then strode to the wicket also pushing the run-rate along with ease.

Nair (43) fell in a quest for quick runs bringing Riches (17*)to the crease. The two closed the innings well with timley placement and good running. A score of 6/231 was pleasing for Windsor and they where confident of not only being able to defend it, but even claiming the 10 wickets need to win the match.

Things got off to a good start with Nichols claiming a wicket in his 1st over. At the other end though youngster Harris was very ginger, carrying an injury in the game, he was not at 100% fitness and it was evident.

A quick change around saw Mohindru start a spell and with Nichols they drilled into the Farnham Royal middle order. Nichols dismissed the dangerous Pitt and then both bowlers took another 3 each, leaving Farnham Royal on the brink at 8/50 after 16 overs. The game was theres for the taking.

Farnhams 9th wicket partnership was to be the highligh of the game though. Nichols rotated bowlers aorund, set ultra attacking feilds, then drew the feils back in the assumption that the last placed side would have a dig at the win, but it was not to be!

The 9th wicket was far to good for anything that Windsor could throw up, and they took the game to the 48th over where they held out Windsor attack to a tea, much to the celebrations of the home sides supporters. What everyone had witnessed was a spirited fight back from 2 gutsy players. If only Farnham had that kind of tenacity through out the season and through out their side, perhaps they would not be coming deadlast and staring down relegation in 2008. Singh should come in for special mention. not inly had the 16 year old taken 4 wickets with his skiddy left arm spin, he scored 62* ever important runs.

As much as Nichols used tactics to promote the batsmen to push for the win, their steely resolve would not repent as they went on their merry way merely accumulating, never really seeing the run chase as an option.

It was certainly frustrating for Windsor but they only had themselves to blame. there at least 5 difficult chances that if they had taken 1, would have brought in the 10th wicket. But they were not good enough and as such certainly did not deserve to win the game.

It they want to be a top 3 side, these chances MUST be taken.

Lady luck also was not interested in a Windsor win, as countless number of balls fell short, went through gaps and went over heads, to the extent, Windsor players just shrugged their shoulders and laughed near the end of the game... Put simply it was one of those days!

Windsor play host to Beaconsfield 2's next week and are looking forward to a tough encounter. Beaconsfiled gave Windsor a cricketing lesson in the first round smashing them by 100 runs taking 25 points, so the home side has to play good cricket to make up for that and fingers crossed return the favour...

WASHOUT

2008-08-21T09:45:00.003Z

BASINGSTOKE & NTH 7 Points

Washout

WINDSOR 7 Points

A diabolical day as far as the weather was concerned meant to no games where complated in the division.

WINDSOR FALL JUST FALL SHORT...

2008-08-05T09:59:00.003Z

WINDOR 7/242 (52 OVERS) 15 POINTS
Nichols 67

Drew with

CHISWICK & LATYMER 9/201 (8 POINTS)

On the back of a terribly close encounter against competition front runners Maidenhead the week prior, Windsor travelled to Whitton Park to do battle with friendly rival Chiswick & Latymer.

Upon inspection of the wicket, players where bemused by the apparent lack of preparation of the wicket. The pitch that was covered was as green as the out field and both skippers decided that if play was going to be safe, at least another hour of rolling was crucial.

The conditions made winning the toss all the more important, but the coin fell awkward for Nichols and Windsor were rightly sent in on the greenish deck many had seen!

Bird and Birch obviously struggled on the terrible surface early on. Some impressive bowling, especially from Khan, who bowled with reasonable pace, was getting alot out of the pitch. It all became too much when Bird (6) received an unplayable delivery spitting on a length the surface to be caught off Khan to leave Windsor 1/12.

Chorley and Birch look to push the score towards 50, before Chorley (25) received another corker rearing off a length, courtesy from the gremlins on the pitch to be caught behind. Nair played a few shots until he succumb to leg cutter from Singh to be caught at 2nd slip. Then Birch (27) got an edge that flew to 2nd Slip off Khan and Weston was trapped in fron LBW to leave Windsor perilously close to oblivion at 5/88.

From here Nichols and Riches looked to slowly advance to 100. As Khan grew tired after bowling 13 straight, Windsor went to drinks 5/97. The partnership moved to 130 in slow time amid some spirited efforts from the Chiswick attack.

But the game reached a turning point in the 35th over. Nichols was dropped 2 twice in as many balls and decided to chance his arm against a tiring Khan and flattening wicket. he proceeded to hit him for 3 sixes in a row, to take 22 off the over, and from here Windsor took the imitative!

Riches grew in confidence who along with Nichols started to belt the Chiswick attack all around the park. the ultra attacking fields set by Chiswick where replaced with fielders on the boundaries and Windsor took singles as will and pushed the score to 190 in the 43rd before Nichols (67) was caught on the 3rd man boundary.

The skipper could not have got out at a better time as Malloch then picked up where he left off and along with Riches pushed the total to 200. While trying to squeeze as many runs out of the remaining overs as possible, Riches (42) was run out, bringing Gregory to the crease. his first 2 scoring shots where 6 and 4 as Windsor finished 7/242 after 52 with Malloch (27*) and Gregory (17*).

With the new ball taken, Chiwick got off to a fine start with Van den Burg hitting some crisp strokes, ably supported by the enigmatic Davis. With Gregory bowling tight at the other end, Nichols introduced Malloch to replace himself with the wind and the change proved correct as Bevan removed Davis plumb LBW.

At 1/32 the game was pretty much up for the taking but a sublime period of 6 overs killed any chance Chiswick had of winning the game. Nair managed to run out the dangerous Singh, Khan was caught for a golden duck to Gregory to a great snare at short leg by Chorley, and Malloch had van den Burg caught at cover by Birch to leave Chiswick 4/42 after 16 overs.

Having been in a similar position in the 1st round of games against Chiswick, Windsor knew the game was far from won. San Jose and Wrigglesworth looked to steady the ship, until a brilliant caught and bowled from Harris removed San Jose.

One over from drinks Chiswick skipper Scott was caught off Mohindru at deep long on by Gregory to leave Windsor well on top, having Chiswick 6/97.

After the break, Fell and Wrigglesworth kept the score ticking in a quest to gain bonus points. Windsor kept attacking with men around the bat, and this paid dividends when Harris picked up his 2nd wicket, that of Wrigglesworth caught at short gully by Malloch.

With the pitch unresponsive to spin and seam, Windsor looked to wait for mistakes from the Chiswick lower order. Harris and Mohindru played away with little lick as Chiswick moved to 7/180 with 5 overs to go.

Nichols then introduced himself and immediately removed Fell LBW. Next over Harris claimed the games 9th wicket leaving 3 overs and number 10 and 11 at the crease!

Unfortunately from Windsor it was not to be, as the Chiswick side not only starved off an all out assault from Windsor to claim that crucial 10th scalp, but also did enough to secure a bonus point, moving the score to 9/201 after 48 overs.

It was a fine effort form Windsor in hindsight. They had the worse of the condition by a long way and still managed to have the opposition 9 down in reply after scoring 242. With the bat it was pleasing to see Riches get his first score in the 1st XI, and to see Birch grind out a crucial 28, saving his middle order from taking on those difficult first 20 overs. This allowed Nichols and Malloch to combine and push a terrific total that in reality, Chiswick where never going to get after losing early wickets.

Once again, Harris and Mohindru bowled very well with Malloch and Gregory doing everything right with the new ball.

Next week sees Windsor play host to Basingstoke & Northants. It will be an exciting game as Windsor is extremely keen to avenge their defeat earlier in the season. Basingstoke are a very good cricket side and the home team will have to play very well to leap frog them into 4th place on the ladder.

HARRESSING HARRIS HOUNDS MAIDS

2008-07-29T09:45:00.003Z

WINDSOR 8/205

Tied with

MAINDENHEAD & BRAY 205
Ben Harris 6/87
Rahul Mohindru 4/48

Competition leaders Maidenhead & Bray came to Windsor expecting a straight forward victory against the home side. The visitors spent alot of time surveying a wicket prior to the commencement of the match, but with Nichols winning the toss he decided to bat first.

Windsor got off to a flyer scoring 20 runs off the first 2 overs with Birch seemingly hitting everything served up to him to the boundary, as Bird continued in a similar vain. Maids made the break through though with the score on 35 as Evan got one through the gate of Birch (18). Bird (14) followed soon after to a peach of a delivery from Coyne to be bowled and leaving Windsor in a precarious state of 2/38.

Chorley and Nair rebuilt the innings, with Nair playing some lovely drives and Chorley proving able support. The pair were moving to total well onto 100 when just after the drinks break, the dangerous Valambhia deceived Chorley (26) with a slower ball to be bowled.

The probing off-spin of Bashir was introduced and Nair (36) succumb, playing back to be correctly adjudged LBW. Lines and Weston than had to start again and with the score moving to 140, Lines (22) nicked on to 1st slip off Valambhia to leave Windsor 5/140 in the 32nd over.

Just prior to the 2nd drinks break, Weston (8) popped one back to Valmbhia which he ably took and Windsor went in drinks at 6/140, with the game in the balance.

The visitors got very cocky at this stage with alot of chat suggesting that the game was already won! Malloch and Nichols fed off their oppositions arrogance as they slowly winded through the overs against fine bowling from Bashir and Valambhia.

Once the target of 45 overs was achieved the partnership let lose! It was extremely satisfying to see the visitors argue amongst themselves as the two ran quick singles creating mis-fields, were gifted over throws and generally put the side under pressure. when only 10 overs previous they where saying the game was won!!!

Nichols (28) targeted Valambhia for some boundaries but perished to Bashir in the 47th over. Lloyd came and went to Bashirs off-spin, but it was Mohindru who with the ridiculously dependable Malloch (30 no) who got the score to 205 in the 52 over.

It was a frustrating performance as everyone in the top 8 got a start without anyone really going on with it. In saying that Bashir and Valambhia bowled extremely well, and it could be argued that 205 was a good score against them.

The old ball was taken on a wicket that was turning like a top, and Harris in his 1st over had Khan out bowled leaving one that pitched a good foot outside off-stump. With that ball the 17 year old had all the Maidenhead players take notice, if they where going to get 205, they had better bat very well!

Kennedy played some solid pulls off Harris to keep the score board ticking whilst Mohindru at the other end was his metronomic self, then the 3 big wickets came and turned the game on its head. Harris had Kennedy caught at mid -on by Lines. A few overs later the youngster dealt a double blow trapping the dangerous Bashir LBW to one that spun back sharply, and two balls later Van Niekirk missed a full toss that hit him in line to follow the same fate of Bashir to leave Maidenhead 4/41.

From here new batsmen Kumar and Choudhary began a long climb back. they put away the bad balls and keep the score ticking in the midst of ultra attacking field settings and put on a partnership of 100. Then Mohindru got his first wicket of the day claiming the impressive Choudhary (77) caught Weston at shortleg, and Windsor could sense a chance.

The new ball was taken and Malloch introduced, but with the pitch being a spinners paradise he struggled to penetrate. Monhindru removed Hewitt who holed out to Harris at mid-off then Harris was re-introduced after a short rest and instantly got reward, claiming Riaz caught behind to bring up his 5th wicket.

From here Windsor put the fear of failure in front of Maidenheads inexperienced lower order, who at 7/197 could easily win the game, and should have been favourites from that position. But pressure can do funny things to players, as Nichols brought the field in around the new batsmen.
The task proved to great for skipper Coyne who flayed at a length ball from Mohindru to duly have the number 9 out bowled. Windsor where bemused by the dismissal of Valambhia who suffered an identical fate with the score on 9/201. Maidenhead where choking!

Maidenhead got to 205 and fittingly it was down to the two youngest players on the field in Kumar and Harris to decide the result. Fortunately for Windsor, Harris came out on top as he had Kumar (47) caught and bowled off his first ball of the over, to end a great knock form the youngster and spoil Maidenheads day!

Although the tie was entertaining and considering where Windsor were placed for a short time a good result, the lads where a little disappointing to only get the 15 points. Windsor had their chances in the field to wrap up the game but did not take them and against a side like Maidenhead, who are fittingly on top of the table, Windsor need to take them to get the results.

A tie in the end was a fair result, but 25 points would have been a lot more sweeter.

Ben Harris was the star for Windsor as the 17 year old took 6/87 through prodigious turn that baffled the batsmen. Mohindru was his impressive self plying away at the other end asking the batsmen plenty of questions.

This game halts a fine few weeks for Windsor where they took 65 points from the top 3 teams on the table. They are really looking to progress from here, as confidence is sky and they know if they play well they can beat any side in the competition.

A BIRD IN THE HAND IS WORTH 2 IN THE BUSH!

2008-07-22T08:40:00.003Z

WINDSOR 230 / 7 (52 overs) 25 POINTS
Bird 116

defeated

MARLOW 197 all out (43 overs) 7 POINTS by 33 runs

An unchanged Windsor travelled to play table toppers Marlow on the back of a confidence boosting win over Datchet the week before.

On arrival the batsmen were delighted to see what would have to have been one of the best batting decks in the league. The skipper Wes Nichols was fortunate enough to win the toss and had no hesitation in batting first.

Oliver Birch and Craig Bird opened the batting for Windsor as Birch fell in just the 3rd over of the day for 4 after missing a straight one from Hampton.

Andy Chorley then joined Bird and looked in particularly good knick after dispatching a number of short balls to the midwicket boundary, however he tried one pull shot too many and holed out to square leg with the score on 32.

Youngster Vishal Nair joined Bird in the middle with the game slightly favouring the home side. What followed was hopefully a sign of things to come from the immensely talented Nair as he played a magnificent supporting role in a 72 run stand with Bird.

The runs continued to flow for Windsor following the departure of Nair, with both Bird and Mark Lines finding the boundary on regular occasions. Bird became the 3rd Windsorian this season to pass 3 figures for the 1st XI. It was a sublime knock from the balding batting bastion and really set up Windsor lower order to a tea!

When Lines departed for 26 Windsor were very well placed at 181 for 4. Bird, Nichols and Weston all perished in the final overs in search of additional runs and the innings closed at 230 for 7 from the allotted 52 overs with Malloch on 21 not out.

Windsor were happy to have obtained their early goal of reaching 200 and 10 batting points. The innings was built around a faultless century from their senior batsman who is scoring runs at will at the moment. What was also very encouraging is that Windsor were able to progress from 32 for 2 to 181 for 4 with 2 of its most talented juniors at the crease.

Windsor took to the field aware that they had a competitive but by no means unassailable total to defend. The message from skipper Nichols was to go out and enjoy the 2nd half of the game with a nothing-to-lose approach.

In spite of being felled by some over vigorous encouragement from Ben Harris, Nichols was able to take the new ball. To Windsor’s delight the first ball found the outside edge of Trotter’s bat and flew to the waiting slips cordon who showed great teamwork by both handling the ball before Bevan Malloch clung on to a very difficult chance, it was just the start Windsor wanted.

Hudson followed his team mate back to the pavilion shortly after, LBW to a very quick delivery from Malloch. Malloch who is in rare form with the ball has been desperately unlucky in recent weeks, and a big haul must be just around the corner for him. Paskins then showed everyone at the picturesque Marlow ground why he is held in such high regard as he as he cut his way to 44.

Harris was thrown the ball by Nichols in an attempt to dislodge the free scoring Marlow batsmen who had pushed the score along to 60 for 2. Thanks to some fine bowling, shrewd field placings and sharp catching, Harris removed both Aslam caught by Chorley at short-leg and Paskins caught by Weston at short cover. Harris then had Barton stumped attempting a swipe that Lloyd duly removed the bails too and the game had well and truly turned in Windsor’s favour.

The fall of wickets brought Marlow’s vocal and talented overseas player Dixon to the crease. He looked to take the game back from Windsor striking a number of boundaries and the occasional 6. Brinkford, who had joined Dixon at the crease following the fall of the 5th wicket provided good support until hitting a rank full toss straight from Lines’ first ball straight to Harris who took a very well judged catch just a few centimetres inside the midwicket boundary.

Much to the joy of the gathering home crowd Dixon continued to take to the Windsor attack but he was running out of partners as Hampton and Line were both dismissed cheaply. Nichols brought himself back on to bowl and both finished the game and silenced the crowd by removing O’Tolle’s off stump… Another 25 points for Windsor!!!

Craig Bird, cheered on by his young family, was undoubtedly the player of the match with his stylish 116. However the contribution of Windsor’s younger brigade must not go unnoticed. It was especially pleasing to see Ben Harris remove 2 set batsman with quality off-spin bowling, and Nair and Lines getting starts in Windsors middle order. These guys are now not just in the team on ability or potential, they are winning games for the club.

Although Nichols (3/32) got the figures it was Harris (3/47) whose spell really turned the game. Mohindru was again his metronomic best as Mallochs figures continue to contradict his impressive form.

Next week Windsor host Maidenhead & Bray, whom have replaced Marlow at the top of the Division 2A table. This represents the 3rd consecutive game against a top 3 side harbouring hopes of promotion to Division 1. The team has the form, ability and confidence to once again put a large dent these hopes and perhaps pull –off a third victory on the trot.

WINDSOR MATCH IT WITH DATCHET...!

2008-07-14T08:40:00.003Z

WINDSOR 119 all out (41 overs) 25 POINTS
Bird 53

defeated

DATCHET 104 all out (39.1 overs) 6 POINTS
Mohindru 5-6 (7 overs)
Nichols 4/37 (20 overs)

After a difficult week which included Windsor overseas having to pull out at the 11th hour, and massive amounts of rain fall upon Home Park on Wednesday and Friday night, Windsor played host to local rivals Datchet.

With Windsor tormented by unavailability it was a distinctly youthful look which took the field with Mark Lines coming back into the side and 17 year old Vishal Nair making his debut.

Datchet won the toss and inserted Windsor on a pitch which 18 hours before had been under an inch of water. The staff at Waterer’s led by Steve pulled out the stops on the morning of the game to produce a wicket that resulted great contest that tested the technique and nerve of both sides.

Windsor started quickly with openers Bird and Birch putting on 18 for the first wicket before Birch played down the wrong line of a straight one from James Lambert and was bowled for 14.

Chorley joined Bird and the pair moved the score on to a respectable 48 when in the 13th over Chorley edged one to the keeper off Lambert for 11. This brought Vishal Nair to the crease. Nair looked very comfortable as he and the balding stalwart Bird, moved the score on to 91 in a manner which was to contrast with the remainder of proceedings for the day. Bird went past 50 for the second game in succession and was unfortunate to be run out for an impressive 53.

With the wicket drying A. Dick changed ends and was replaced by J. Dick and the brothers Dick bowled well in tandem slowing the run rate and grabbing the wickets of Lines and Nair before the score had reached 100.

On a pitch that was now really testing the technique of the batsmen against a turning and seaming ball Windsor proceeded to subside to 119 all out in the 41st over with Andy Dick finishing with yet another 5 wicket haul against Windsor in a great performance.

With game on fast forward the Umpires decided that Datchet would face 10 overs before tea was taken. Windsor opted for the old ball and an ultra attacking field and were soon amongst the wickets as Malloch had Tilly caught at gully by Ben Harris in the second over bringing Tim Aldis to the crease.

Aldis and George moved the score on until just before tea when Wes Nichols had George caught at 1st slip by Bevan Malloch. Tea was taken with the game in the balance with Datchet at 30 for 2.

Upon the resumption Windsor kept applying the pressure. Ben Harris backed up by some great fielding particularly from the 'Ginger Ninja' Ollie Birch, bowled with great control and a huge amount of skill at the river end and was very unfortunate to remain wicket less.

There are not many 17 year old finger spinners who can contain players of the calibre of Tim Aldiss, his performance went a massive way to achieving Windsor the result.

With seven wickets still needed and Oram and Aldis beginning to look comfortable Nichols decided to take the new ball and soon after had Oram LBW leaving Datchet requiring 39 runs with 6 wickets remaining. Rahul Mohindru replaced Harris. And he and Nichols ratcheted up the pressure.

With Aldis looking on forlornly on at the other end, Mohindru tore through the remainder of the Datchet order. Backed up by his close fielders Weston, Lines at short leg and silly point respectively he exploited the turning track to have three batsmen caught in close off sharp bat pad chances as Datchet froze and were reduced to 101 for 9.

With no partners remaining it really was Tim Aldis versus Windsor. Realising that it was probably just a matter of time before Dick was dismissed at the other end, Aldis tried to attack Mohindru. But it was an ask too far. Mohindru saw Aldis coming as he advanced down the track and dragged the ball a little shorter resulting in Aldis skying the ball to deep square leg when Lines took a great catch.

Aldis finished on 60 out of 104 all out in a masterclass of batting and was the only Datchet batsman to really look to trouble Windsor on a very difficult wicket for batting. But Aldiss could not do it all himself as Windsor were very worthy winners.

It was an exceptional bowling and fielding display by Windsor who picked up their first 25 point win of the season lifting them to fifth in the table. Ben Harris was an unsung hero as he spoilt any chance Datchet had of rattling through in the early overs of the contest, which set things up superbly for the old stager Mohindru, who with the new ball showed all the guile and skill that has claimed him 300+ wickets for the club...

Wayne Lloyd in his first 1st XI game in 15 years was terrific as he gloved everything up to high standard, an amazing on a mine feild wicket, he did not let one bye through either, a great performance.

What was also nice to see was the Windsor colts starting to come though the sides ranks. Nair, Harris and Lines are all local juniors and under 18! It truly speaks wonders for Windsor colts system and the fact that these lads at such a young age can contribute in the 1st team. This coupled with more promising U/20 local juniors in the 2nd XI in Hartridge, Malik, Chana, Kellard and Riches makes the club look in very safe hands! Its up to these lads to take their chances when they come, something the Nairs, Maliks and Harris of the club seem to be doing well!

Next week sees Windsor travel to competition leaders Marlow. Windsor must bot get carried away with the win if they are to be competitive over there. With overseas DuPreez finally available pressure will be on for the lads to keep contributing to the side movement up the ladder

GOULDS GRACE GETS LUCKY 13

2008-07-07T09:59:00.002Z

WINDSOR 280/8 (13 Points)
Gould 130

drew with

BURNHAM 212/7 (9 Points)
Nichols 5/81

On the back of 20 points last week, Windsor travelled to Burnham expecting another tough encounter that seems to bely meetings between the 2 clubs.

With the weather alternating between glorious sunshine and cloudy overcast, Windsor won the toss and decided to have a bat.

Windsor where extremely lucky to have the services of former colt Michael Gould to open the batting, and what he shown was a masterclass on the discipline as he dissected all the offerings the hapless Burnham!

Gould flayed all bowling around the ground, and with Birch tormented the Burnham in-field with incisive running between the wickets as they posted the first 50 in 7 overs.

The 100 was up after 19 overs as Gould had soared to 70 and Birch provided sublime support. The spinners where introduced and both openers continued to plunder the attack and by drinks, Gould had his 100, out of a total of 150!

After the break Birch departed with his score on 43, and Chorley continued the great work, taking advantage of a fast outfield. In what was becoming a bowler friendly wicket, Burnham off spinner Bashir, started to bowl a lovely spell, ripping the ball square at times to slow the Windsor run rate.

Gould was finally removed in the 30th for 130, as Millman and Chorley began to grow the total to 200+

Chorley (33) fell after a real gutsy innings that helped bind the middle order together. Huggins came and went as Nichols who with Millman looked to push the total beyond Burnhams reach.

Some wonderful bowling from Burnham really halted the progress of Windsor as Millman (24) fell with Murray soon after, leaving Nichols and Malloch to close the innings.

Both Bats struggled to emulate the free flowing style exhibited by Gould, in the face of some useful bowling but managed to tick the score up to 270 before Nichols (15) was caught behind in the last over as Windsor after 52 settled for 280/8.

The innings was built around the magnificent Gould as he was supported by handy contributions from Birch, Chorley and Millman.

Windsor thought that considering how difficult conditions where in the last few overs, 48 overs would be enough to have a crack at 25 points. The old ball was taken as Windsor thought to make early inroads but Burnham had other ideas as opener Rehman went berserk hitting all bowling to all parts of the ground.

After 6 overs with the old rock, the new one was called as Rehman continued with the juggernaut hitting skipper Nichols for 16 runs off one over! It was Malloch at the other end, who done a superb job pushing into a strong breeze, who picked up the first wicket leaving Burnham on track at 1/70 after 17 overs...

With Rehamn sprinting to 50, spin was re-introduced as Mohindru kept the runs down and the pressure mounting. Malloch was then swapped around with Nichols, who came in off a short run into the wind, and had immediate success claiming Rehman caught Gould at point for 70.

The next 10 overs were vital for Windsor as they looked to keep the runs down so they could launch an all out assault later in the innings. Nichols claimed 2 more wickets to leave Burnham 4/170 after 30 overs, as both new batsmen looked uncomfortable but still ticked the runs over.

Mohindru at the other end bowled without luck and grouped quite a few maidens together, as Nichols probed with the ball swinging.

With 10 overs remaining and 100 runs required Windsor set ultra attacking fields, with men crowding the bat everywhere and youngster Harris had the chance to be a hero! He replaced the ever reliable Mohindru at one end as he tried to extract the same rip that Bashir did earlier for Burnham.

However it was the ridiculously under-rated leg spin of Nichols who claimed the first break through getting Khan caught at first slip by Gould to push Burnham 5 down with 7 overs remaining.

Windsor gave away the bonus points to Burnham for scoring 200, as they looked to chip away at the order. Harris who bowled well without reward was replaced by Gould who claimed the vital wicket of Bashir (51) caught and bowled.

Nichols then claimed his 5th wicket as Khan mis-read a topspinner to be given LBW but time had run out for Windsor as Burnham comfortably saw out the remaining time to finish at 212/7.

In the end a draw was a fair result, Windsor certainly had the better of the game, and the 13 points to 9 received reflect this, but Burnham did well to starve them out.

Had Windsor not been 2nd last and Burnham 3rd last (With 5 points between them), Windsor could have been able to declare earlier and attack a little earlier in the innings with the ball.

But seeing the table is so close and congested, at this time of the season, Windsor need to be very mindful of what points that can hand out to opposition sides. they have already made massive blunders against Beaconsfeild and Basingstoke gifting them 25 points, something they don't want to do again.

Fingers crossed as the season progresses and Windsors table position improves, they will be able to play with a little more attacking flair that they would prefer. But at the moment it is 'horses for courses' attitude that needs to be fostered as they look to improve their standing.

Next week Windsor play host to local rivals Datchet. It will be a massive test for the home side as the 1st team is swamped with unavailability that they can really not afford against one of the best teams in the comp. Hopefully they can defy the odds and turn the tables as Datchet have certainly had the wood over the side in the past.

WINDSOR WIN... AGAIN!

2008-07-01T14:41:00.002Z

WINDSOR 8/188 (20 Points)
C Bird 56

defeated

FINCHAMPSTEAD (12 Points)

On the back of an awful batting display the previous game. Windsor brought a new look side into their encounter with Finchampstead. Along with Bird being recalled instantly into the side, Huggins and Murray were selected on the back of some quality performance in the 2nd XI.

A pristine deck was prepared for the game which both batsmen agreed, would be perfect for batting. Unfortunately Windsor lost the toss and Finchampsted where about to get the first use.

Windsor started very well with the ball, as has been the case in the last few weeks. Nichols picked up 2 in his 2nd over and Malloch got another in his 3rd to leave the visitors 3/3 after 6!

When Malloch, who was bowling some with some sublime rhythm got an off-cutter to jag back, he claimed his 2nd wicket and Windsor with their tails up looked to progress.

The Finch batsmen in Brown and James played a steady rearguard as they limped the total to 4/40 after 20 overs. both survived a spirited opening spell as Bevan probed with some attacking bowling and Nichols served up some very viscous bouncers that had both bats on the back foot.

As James started to play some shots he got a few chanced as he was dropped of Nichols at 2nd slip and some others chances fell short. It was Malloch who got his 3rd wicket as James played a shot too many to be caught by Murray on debut.

Brown played a good skipper knock as he has some fortune go his way with a few edges landing between fielders. He was dropped on 30 at mid-off and from here looked to settle as after 32 overs, the off spin of Harris was introduced and the lack of pace was too his liking as he brought up his 50.

As Nichols began to tire, the veteran Mohindru was introduced and both off-spinners begum to wear the Finch side down. It was Harris who got the break through as Murray accepted his 2nd catch at deep Square. From here wickets fell regularly as Windsor heaped pressure on the tail to restrict the visitors to 8/183

It was a fine performance based upon the continued great form of Nichols (2/44) and Malloch (3/55) , the guile of Mohindru (2/33) and the exhuberance of Harris (2/55), who incidentally took a spectacular catch of his spin twins bowling.

The consensus was that 183 was not enough and Windsor started the chase in style. birch timed some great shots but fell with the score on 40 to a mistimed sweep, but with Bird at the other end flaying the ball to all parts and Chorley picking up his fine form the score shifted to 1/99 until Bird after scoring his 50 was caught in front LBW.

Nichols and Millman fell for ducks before Chorley edged one to 14 year old keeper Lincoln (who is destined for a fine career), to push the game back in Finchs' favour at 5/135.

Some nervous overs ticked away as some excessive appealing from the Finch side showed their enthusiasm for the points. Just as Windsor looked to have the game in hand, Huggins departed on 22 to a shot he would rather forget, to once again swing the game and leave Windsor at 6/160.

As the game ebb & flowed, Murray was a constant as he picked up singles, and rotated the strike , with usual lower order saviour Malloch and once again the game seemed to move back into the home sides grasp.

That was until both Murray and Malloch departed in the space of 5 overs and with Windsor at 8/168, the game was anyones!

But it was the spin twins in Mohindru and Harris who showed nerves of steal to pull the game into Windsors grasp with fine cameos and remain not out as Windsor claimed their 2nd win of the season.

It was a descent performance in light of the efforts from the week previous. The selections of Bird, Huggins and Murray where substantiated as they accounted for half the home sides runs scored.

In saying that Windsor were very lucky, as had it not been for the 20 opposition byes let through during the course of the innings, the result could have been a bit different. In actual fact if Windsor had held all the chances offered they probably would have been chasing a target more like 150.

Some extra fielding drills will be offered during the week!

Windsor are still 2nd last on the table and with the side travelling to fellow cellar dwellers Burnham this Saturday, a win for either side will help alieviate any pressure heading into the 2nd half of the season.

WOEFUL WINDSOR WOBBLE...

2008-06-24T08:28:00.002Z

Windsor 86 (5 Points)

defeated by

Beaconsfeild 2's 176 (25 Points)
Nichols 4/35

In what can only be called an utter embaressment, Windsor totally capitulated to
Beaconsfeild 2's on the weekend to hold on to outright 2nd last position. They stand 7 points behind 3rd last so all is not lost, but continued spineless performances like the one displayed last week will end their season sooner rather than later.

Windsor travelled to Beaconsfeild with hope, after the comeplete performance the week previous, but that proved to be a false dawn.

Nichols won the toss and decided to bowl on a hard wicket that would assist his seamers. he was nervous about the way the wicket would play in the final 50, but was confident his bowling could reduce the opposition to a managable target.

Nichols and Mallaoch (3/50) started well as the Beaconsfeild openers struggled to score. Nichols nearly put one in hospital in his 2nd over as Francis who was not wearing a helmet, managed to get the tip of his elbow in the way a brute of a ball making a beeline for his head.

As Francis duly had some protection run on straight after, Malloch removed him caught at midwicket by Millman. He than got the better of fellow Suter as he had him LBW to leave Beaconsfeild 2/21 after 10.

Both openers plyed away and Mallach claimed another in the 17th to have the home side 3/35.
With Nichols bowling maidens and Malloch inswing penetrating the batsmen Windsor looked well pressed to get the opposition to a minimal total.

Just prior to drinks Mohindru (3/38) was introduced and claimed 2 wickets in 2 overs to leave Beaconfield 5/60 after 26 overs.

From here Beaconsfeild through Skitt & Alexander posted a fine reconvery, gently putting on 97 before Mohindru struck to leave them 6/165 and open up the tail and give Windsor hope at reducing the opposition to less then 180.

Nichols then reintroduced himself and with some clever death bowling claimed 4 wickets in 4 overs to knock over the home side for 176.

It was a great performance from Windsor's bowlers and in the feild as they restricted the home side on a good batting strip. It was also a fine performance from Skitt and Alexander, as they where the difference between windsor kncoking them over for less then 100, and getting the total they did.

Beaconsfeild took the old ball and and immediately had the gursts on the back foot, as off spinner Sullivan removed Birch out bowled.

It is fair to say that form here Windsor never recovered. Chorley was then run out leaving Windsor well and truly battered at 2/11 after 10.

The batsmen really struggled against Sullivan and allowed the offspinner to dominate proceeding as no one had the courage to counter attack. Millman was the out caught at cover and Chana finally was removed to leave the guests at an outright embaressing 4/30 after 20 overs.

From here Windsor where never going to win, as their top order could not muster the perserverance to deal with the fine bowling from Sullivan. Windsor could only score 37 runs to the drinks break after 25 overs. This broke any chance the middle order had of digging the side out of the hole as the home sides tails where up, the bowlers where set into dominate lines and Windsor capitulated.

Hartridge, Gregory, Malloch all where removed for single figure scores and Nichols and Mohindru tried a rear guard action to no avail. Baumgartner and young Harris tried in vein to steady the sinking ship but in the 44th over Beaconsfeild had their 25 point win.

To say it was embarressing is an understatment. Sullivan ended with 6/38 and without any shadow of a doubt dominated some of the inept Windsor batting, who seemed incapable of playing descent spin on a turning wicket.

The selectors have many questions to ask on Monday evening, but not as many as the players do in the next few weeks! Windsor seem incapable of putting together 100 overs, and unless something changes soon, They could be testing their wares in Division 3B...

Windsor host Finchampsted next week and a better showing will be required to help get their season back on track.

WINDSOR WIN... FINALLY!

2008-06-16T13:28:00.003Z

WINDSOR 2/122 (20 Points)
Birch 59

defeated

FARNHAM ROYAL 119 (3 Points)
Mohindru 4/10
Nichols 4/48

After the bitter disappointment of last weeks game, Windsor were looking to put the past behind them as fellow cellar dwellers Farnham Royal 2's travelled to Home Park amid glorious June sunshine.

A considerable loss for either side could of put a massive dent on their 2008 chances of staying up in Division 2A, so Windsor looked on this contest as a must win encounter.

Nichols lost his first toss of the league as Farnham Royal elected the bat on a wicket that looks better and better each week, a massive credit to the Waterers ground staff after the problems of last season.

After a steady start, Malloch had Sahdra caught at midwicket by Gregory attempting to pull. A couple of overs later, Nichols has the fellow opener Perkins heading back, after Harris accepted a gentle catch at short cover.

Windsor really applied the screws in the next few overs via determined fielding and disciplined bowling as Nichols then had Choudary LBW and Sahdra bowled to leave the guests 4/26 after 10 overs.

After being in similar positions in the last 3 weeks, Windsor where determined not to let this opportunity slip. A spirited partnership from Van As and Farnham skipper Khan, resurrected things a little. Khan in particular looked to be getting in on the belter of a wicket before Mohindru was introduced the over prior to drinks and found reward right away, as he had Khan LBW playing the sweep to leave the visitors 5/60 after 26.

Immediately after the break, Nichols who was swinging the ball both ways to the batsman's mirth, captured Gillham bringing former Windsor CC player Pitt to the crease.

He took a liking to the tiring skipper and hit him for some well timed boundaries while Mohindru at the other end, fresh after a stint in the 2nd XI, kept the momentum in Windsor favour as he had Van As caught by Chana at deep square.

The old talisman used his guile to claim another wicket, capturing the dangerous Pitt LBW. It was a welcome return to form for Mohindru, who used his experience to push the ball through, varying his flight to bowl a stump to stump line. If the batsmen missed, they were in trouble.

Just like Nicholas, who gave Mohindru his 4th wicket as he suffered the same fate as 2 other of his team mates, LBW to Mohindru. At the other end. Youngster Harris was brought into the attack, and bowled with intelligence exceeding his years.

A cameo from fellow youngster Singh, was brought to an end, after he hit Harris for 14 runs in the over, went for one to many, gifting Harris his 1st wicket and Chana his 2nd catch, this time at long off to have Farnham Royal all out for 119 after 40 overs.

An early tea was called and Windsor went on the attack right away, with openers Bird and Birch enjoying the batsmen friendly conditions.

Both where scoring freely until Bird was out LBW to Pitt. Chorley did not miss a beat as he hit some superb drives to push the total towards 100. Birch brought up his 50, and was then caught and bowled Sahdra to a brute of a ball that leapt off a length.

This was a small blemish as new batsmen Chana, scored the winning runs via a cover drive for 4, to give the home side their first win of the season.

The win was set up through the great bowling of Malloch, Nichols and Mohindru. The later claimed enviable figures of 4/10 off 7 and the skipper chiming in for 4/48 off 18. Windsor really stuck at it during the middle third of the innings and did not give up when the pitch flattened out and the Farnham side looked to make some inroads to a higher target. It was testimony to the resiliance of the side as in previous weeks, these starts where in vein as Windsor could not keep up the pressure.

In all fairness, Farnham where unable to bring their best side on the day, but Windsor could only play what was in front of them, and an 8 wicket victory inside 65 overs shows the difference between the sides on the day.

The chase was superb as Birch keeps making leaps as a quality opening bat for the club and Chorley highlighted his value by hitting a flawless 40 no to get the side home.

Windor travel to Beaconsfield this week with a new found confidence. The side has found the appropriate bowling mix that going forward should put them in good stead and challenge most sides. Time will tell whether they can keep up the form and consolidate a secure position within the league.

WINDSOR NO MATCH FOR TABLE TOPPERS

2008-06-09T08:39:00.007Z

WINDSOR 198 (8 Points)
Hartridge 62
Gregory 50

defeated by

BASINGSTOKE HANTS 254 (25 Points)
Nichols 4/49

On the back of an encouraging performance against Chiswick the week before, Windsor travelled to Basingstoke, who were top of the table and keen to enforce their position at home against the bottom feeding Windsor.

Windsor unfortunately where well behind the 8-ball prior to a ball being bowled, as in form batsmen Andy Chorley had to pull out mid week due to study commitments and middle order lynchpin Stuart Millman, broke his nose in a freakish training mishap on the Friday evening before the game.

With Windsor losing its 2 key men in the order, along with the absence of Bird, this was going to be a solid test for the younger lads in the club, and a perfect opportunity to stake a claim in the 1st side upon their return.

Skipper Wes Nichols won his 5th toss on the trot and inserted the home side on what looked a green wicket. With the extra seam options in the side, it seemed a reasonable idea and Nichols was the 1st to strike in his 2nd over claiming Darmody caught behind.

Malloch then chimed in claiming Vinn LBW, and then took yet another screamer in 1st slip off Nichols to knock over Thankachan to have the home side reeling at 3/8 after 8 overs.

Williamson and Giles then proceeded to very slowly rebuild the innings with both batsmen playing a missing a bit, the frustration mounted as Giles consistantly edged boundaries to 3rd man, keeping the runrate ticking, a credit to his experience.

Hartridge was then introduced and managed to knock him over LBW, bringing Rizwan to the crease. From here both bats dispatched some ordinary bowling on what was fast becoming a docile pitch.

Gregory was extremely unlucky not to claim Rizwan as Nichols dropped a sharp chance at short midwicket. This was really the only chance of the period as from 15 to 30 overs, the two bats dominated, until Malloch was re-introduced and bowled a peach of an off cutter to remove Williamson for 58.

Worse was to come for Windsor though as James succession to the wicket brought about an increased run rate that had the visitors struggling to qualm. The 17 year old Ben Harris was brought in to the attack to change things, and on what could be called a poor wicket for spin, bowled an extremely encouraging spell to keep the home side from bolting away completely.

At the 40th over the 200 was posted and Windsor looked dead and buried. Nichols and Gregory where then re-introduced to close off the innings and both bowled well, claimed 2 wickets each in their spell.

Gregory removed both danger men in Rizwan LBW for 64 and James caught of the last ball of the game for 64 to have the hosts 9/254 after their 52 overs. It was a fine comeback on debat for the all-rounder.

It was a superb recovery from Basingstoke after being 3/8, and their middle order really took advantage of the easy batting conditions. Windsor where enthusiastic in the field and special mention should go to Stuart Hayward, who was filling in at the 1th hour due to Millmans injury who kept going all day. The pick of the bowlers were Mallach 2/20 off 9 and Nichols 4/49 off 15.

Windsor started their chase in aggressive fashion with Birch and Chana putting away some loose balls early on in the innings. Birch was removed to a quality ball from James that removed his off stump.

Riches coming in at 1st drop and trying to force himself into the 1st XI as a permanent fixture looked superb as he and Chana looked to settle in. Tragedy struck as Chana was run out for the 2nd time in 5 games. It was a heart breaking end to Chana who looked in rare touch and plunged Windsor to 2/32. Riches then nicked one to 2nd slip off James 1 run later and Malloch missed a straight one off the evergreen Harsham to throw Windsors chase into dire straits, leaving them 4/36.

No matter what way you look at it, this was unacceptable. On a pitch that yelled out 'score runs on me' this showed the inexperience of the Windsor batting line up with out Chorley, Millman and Bird. There are quite simply no excuses, no matter what the lads say, there were probably to many stroke makers, and not enough grafters in the top order and that really did show.

It was left to Nichols and Weston to try and retrieve the situation but Weston nicked one to 1st slip off Harsham to push Windsor to the brink 5/47.

Nichols and Hartridge then began a partnership and looked well on top to push the total onwards to 100+, until was adjudged Nichols LBW as he danced down the wicket to Thankachan . It was a severly bitter pill to swallow, but was eased somewhat by the encouraging display of batting by Hartridge and Gregory, as they shown the top order how to bat.

Both started slowly and began to increase momentum as the Basingstoke skipper cunningly kept the field up and willed the Windsor batsmen to go over the top. Both certainly did oblige with Hartridge hitting some magnificent sixes!

The pair both scored their maiden league 50's and put on a 100 partnership as they moved the score to 181, before Hartridge who had been suffering from cramp, requiring the assistance of a runner was run out, the 2nd of the game.

Gregory then 6 runs later was removed, leaving Windsor well and truly in trouble at 8/188. With 1 point on offer for a score over 200, the players where then informed to go for broke.

Hayward in his 1st XI game debut managed to get 3 runs before leaving a straight one to be LBW, meaning it was up to the 17 year old Ben Harris and veteran Rick Baumgartner to get the Windsor side home.

Unfortunately Harsham (5/45 off 14.4) had other ideas, as he capped of a fine bowling performance on a batters deck with the score on 196. Baumgartner off the penultimate ball on the innings went for broke, only to be caught at short cover to hand the table toppers a 25 point win!

It was a great win for Basingstoke and they truly where the better side on the day. Their middle order really stuck together and grinded out a formidable total.

Windsor were dissapointing to say the very least. some of the top order let themselves down with some loose stroke play and the likes of Chorley, Bird and Millman cannot come back soon enough, to add some grit and resiliance.

The sides bowling probably left a bit to be desired in the middle 1/3 of the innings and with Kellard and Mohindru in the 2nd XI bowling their side to a great victory, it stands to reason their names will be brought up in the selection room this week.

An interesting break down of the innings cannot be avoided. Nichols and Malloch together, managed to claim 6/68 off 24 overs. The rest of the line up contributed 3/169 off 28. A telling tale. Bearing in mind the duo had the advantage of a new ball, it is still an area of concern that will need to be addressed in the coming weeks.

Windsor next week play host to fellow bottom placed side Farnham Royal. It will be a very good test of where the side is, and give a reasonable indication of where they are headed. With the 3 other Windsor sides all getting wins, and players coming back, there is going to be a turnover of personal in the 1st XI as the selectors strive to find the appropriate mix, that will best serve the side.

MALLOCH MAGIC!

2008-06-02T11:23:00.001Z

WINDSOR 5/220 (15 Points)
Malloch 56
Millman 62

drew with

CHISWICK & LATYMER 9/217 (7 Points)
Malloch 4/53

With Windsor propping up the Division 2A table, they played host to Chiswick & Latymer on Saturday after a week filled with typical English drizzle. The Windsor side had brought in Tom Hartridge on the back of some consistent performances in the 2nd XI and gave youngster Ben Harris his debut as skipper Wes Nichols won his 4th toss in a row and decided to have a bat.

The wicket certainly has a few good seeds in it early on, but Nichols thought with his side being tentative at the crease in recent weeks, a few more weeks setting the target would put them in better stead, with the way the point’s allocation works in the competition, it is a more steady bet.

Openers Chorley and Birch started things off, with Chorley looking in a hurry to get things going hitting a few shots on the up to get the total rattling along quickly. Birch was first to be removed as he smashed a half volley into the bowlers stomach who fell over to accept the caught and bowled!

Chana came and went quickly, caught behind, as Malloch who has been promoted up the order, came to the crease with Windsor at 2/60. That soon became 3/70 when Chorley not only missed out on 50 but a massive 100 that was in the taking, holing out to deep mid off for 49. Fingers crossed he will take the chance next time! After all the chat in the dressing rooms before the game outlining the importance of not throwing you dig away and putting pressure on the middle order, taking responsibility for the game yourself and building partnerships, it was disappointing to see Windsor in this position.

However new batsmen Millman, who with Malloch obviously was listening to the skippers speech before the game, began to take advantage of a flattening wicket, steadily building the total to 100. As drinks came and went both batted beautifully as both brought up very much deserved 50’s through good running between the wickets and putting away the bad ball. Bevan was the first to fall for 56, once again throwing away what could have been a lot more, playing a rash shot to be bowled when accumulating singles was all that was needed.

Millman also fell soon after for 62, meaning it was up to new batsmen Nichols and Weston to get the side to 200+. Once again the message Nichols gave the players prior to the game should have been ringing in those batsmen’s ears! Not to take away from their magnificent partnership of 113, but one of these batsmen’s should have taking the responsibility of batting through to the end. It is not enough to get a 50, once you get there you MUST go on. This is an area Windsor have deplorably let themselves down in the past and need to address going forward if they are to be a force in the competition. You job is not done once you get to 50…

In saying that Weston and Nichols shown the guys how it should be done, taking little risk in putting on 40 runs in 5 overs forcing the total to 5/220, hitting the poor ball and hard running between the wickets.

Windsor’s total looked well beyond Chiswicks reach after 10 overs. Nichols claimed danger man Van Dan Burg caught 1st slip to the reliable Malloch, then Malloch stepped up to claim Davis and Gremitt, caught behind and bowled respectively. Nichols then got back in the act removing Scott with one that bounced a bit too much to spoon a catch to Weston at Mid-on.

With Windsor tails up, Hartridge was then introduced and his improving seam produced the piece of cricket of the day as Baumgartner completed a fabulous leg side stumping dumbfounding San Jose and his team-mates to bring Wrigglesworth to the crease joining Bhatia at 5/40. From here, they took advantage of the flattening wicket and launched a fine recovery.

Bhatia in particular manufacturing some ugly but extremely effect counter attacking at he raced to 70 and gave the away side some hope. Just when it looked like Chiswick where on top debutant Harris had the enigmatic Bhatia caught by a diving Chorley at backward square with the score at 6/140.

The lower order of Chiswick done a fine job as Bhatia’s brother came in and bottom handed anything up in his half to the boundary. The chase was on and with Windsor losing its grasp on the game Nichols brought back Malloch with 12 overs remaining and 50 runs required. It was just the tonic they needed as Malloch removed Wrigglesworth, and Bhatia to pull the game back in Windsor favour.

Some forcing and lucky shots pushed Chiswicks equation to 20 runs off 4 overs. It looked as though Windsor where going to be blindsided by a remarkable Chiswick comeback when skipper Nichols was hit for 10 off one over. With Malloch bowling tight and Nichols backing him up, it came down to the skipper to bowl the final over.

Chiswick needing 7 runs, Windsor needing 2 wickets. Nichols got one of them with his 3rd ball after Chiswick had previously taken 4 runs off his 1st 3 balls. With the number 11 needing 3 runs and Nichols need 1 wicket it was game on. The penultimate ball whizzed past the Singh’s outside edge and missed off stump by a whisker. It was a case of a missed opportunity as Singh eyes closed danced down the crease but Nichols could not deliver. He failed again next ball as Single haplessly played and missed again to a wider delivery that was obviously off target to give Windsor a winning draw and 15 vital points.

Windsor could should be pleased with the 15 points , but one cant help but be a little disappointed at having the opposition 5/40 in the 15 over, a 25 point win slipped away. On a belter of a pitch though, Chiswick done well and in hindsight Windsor done exceptionally well to have the side on the back foot. Malloch bowled well claimed 4/52, combined with 56 in the first innings completed a fine game. Nichols claimed 3/67.

Windsor travel to Basingstoke next week to take on competition leaders. Windsor has had their measure in the past and here is hoping that can continue, as a good win against them would leave Windsor well placed in the league.

BIRCH SCORES MAIDEN 100

2008-05-27T12:00:00.004Z

WINDSOR 219 (12 points)
Birch 103
Weston 40

lost to

MAIDENHEAD & BRAY 5/222
Nichols 3/51

After the rain played havoc with the previous weeks game, pleasant weather meet Windsor as they travelled the Maidenhead & Bray to take on the new guys in the competition. Having looked at the form, the home side have proved themselves more than capable in the Division 2A competition, and Windsor knew they had to play good cricket to get the points.

Having inspected the wicket, Nichols, in winning his 3rd toss in a row had no hesitations in batting first on a belter of a wicket. With Chorley unavailable through study leave, Birch was promoted up the order to open with the steadily improving Chana.

The new opening combination started superbly, with Birch pushing Chana between the wickets. the pair put on 40 until Chana (18) was run out via a direct hit. Bird (11) than came to the crease and with Birch, built more momentum until he was bowled Bashir from a quicker ball.

Last weeks run scorers Nichols and Millman came and went without adding to the total, playing shots that suggested they where still batting on Windsors Home Park! Both where caught in covers playing on the up, bringing debutant overseas player Adam Weston to the crease.

From here it was one way traffic, as Birch brought up his 50, and Weston proved his worth, as the two ran hard between the wickets, pushing Windsor total past 150. The intelligence of the partnership was a subtle lesson for the Windsor boys as both took limited risks and took advantage of the defensive field set, to click at 5 an over.

With a score of 250+ on the cards, Weston (40) holed out to deep mid off, in a great knock on debut, bringing Malloch to the crease.

It was Birch though who with the 200 posted, scored his century with a trademark slap down the ground, easily the best knock played in the 1st XI for some time.

Unfortunately, when the side needed Birch to cash in he played a loose shot falling for 103, bringing in Davis. both Davis and Malloch struggled to come to terms with the pace of the wicket and perished in uncharacteristic fashion, Davis run out by the wicketkeeper and Malloch bowled playing a heave.

This is where Windsor lost the plot and continued to lose wickets steadily in the final overs finished with 9/219. This was disappointing to the extent that 240 was a par total and lack of patience by those lads meant that Windsor where behind the 8-ball.

The Maids attack bowled well at the death, but Windsor handed them a life line to win the game in capitulating for 4/30 off the last 7 overs...

Windsor need to value their wicket more and pay more respect to the opposition.

On a hard deck Nichols got the initial break through in the 3rd over claiming Khan caught behind bringing Bashir to the crease. Nichols bowled a threatening spell that had Kennedy saw best as he saw his life pass before his eyes as the skipper revealed his skidding bouncer that could have meant extra laundry for Kennedys mother!

In saying that Kennedy batted very well with Bashir and persevered, until in a great display of sportsmanship, he walked after a caught behind appeal off Malloch, which was initially turned down. This sentiment did not go un-noticed by the Windsor side.

At 2/80 in the 20th the game was on an even keel as Bashir and Kumar looked to consolidate the chase. They were going along magnificently, until Nichols claimed the dangerous Bashir to a sublime catch at 1st slip to Malloch, leaving Maids 3/121.

With the asking rate 5 an over, Maids looked shaky as the skipper than had Choudhary caught and boxing Maids in at 4/145.

With Kumar defying his young age and playing a great knock, Iqbal then entered the fray, and systematically belted both Mohindru and young leg-spinner Kellard to put the home side back in the game. After 6 overs of carnage, he departed for 35 (28 runs in boundaries!) and left Maids 5/195, with 8 overs to go.

From here Maids where in the box seat and Kumar brought up his well deserved 50, as Bezuidenhout joined him at the crease the score the winning runs with 3 overs the spare.

It was a superb chase from the new side in the competition and Maids heartily deserves their win.

It was a shame that Windsor, caught not bat better in the last stanza of their innings, as a score of 240/250, would have made for an interesting climax. In the end 219 was not enough.

Windsor have played well for 70-80% in their matches, but the small portion of the time they switch off has come back to hurt them.

Against Marlow, that final 10 overs certainly cost them a 20 point win and the final 7 overs against Maids whilst batting, certainly harmed them.

They really need to take ownership of the situation and all 11 blokes need to recognise that they need to play for 100 overs. Be patient, be sensible and concerntrate. With the division being significantly tougher than last season, every player needs to put their hand up and contribute.

The highlight of the day for Windsor was the knock from Birch. Now he has proved to himself he can do the job opening the batting, that many others knew he could, he needs to push his game into the next level. It was inexperience that resulted in him losing his wicket when he did, and although tough to admit, it had as much a bearing on the side not getting to the 250 mark as that terrible final 7 overs. the easiest runs you will ever score are those after 100...

Overseas player Adam Weston, had a great debut for the side and his continued performances during the season will be much needed! With SAF Glenn Du Preez set to arrive in a month, it will be a great contest between the two, to see who will get the 1st team overseas spot. At the moment, it is Weston's to lose.

The bowling of Malloch 1/57 was also great and he was unlucky to only get the 1 wicket as he bowled much better than the figures suggest on a belter, as Nichols continued his good form claiming 3/51.

Next game against Chiswick at home is sure to spark the lads into action as Windsor make changes, dropping Davis and Kellard from the side and adding Hartridge, fresh from a 5/45 two weeks ago in the 2nd XI, and young off spinning colt Ben Harris, who has been turning it lately.

Fingers crossed the guys can put together a performance for 100 overs and get the biscuits.

WINDSOR DRAW RAIN AFFECTED MUD WRESTLE

2008-05-21T08:49:00.003Z

WINDSOR 9/145 (6 points)
Nichols 58
Millman 35

drew with

MARLOW 8/175 (13 points)
Nichols 7/59

After the prior weekends fabulous weather, it only stood to reason that the heavens would more than make up for it, as the rain and cold found its way to Home Park for the first XI's game against Marlow CC.

Marlow is on a fast track to get back to Division 1 as soon as possible after an abbreviation in 2007. Windsor had other ideas as they made only one chance from the side that was humbled by Datchet.

Six wicket all-rounder Brian Davis form the 2nd team forced his way in for an absent Bevan Malloch.

Windsor won the toss and with a juicy wicket at their disposal, skipper Wes Nichols has no hesitations in asking the opposition to bat. The overcast conditions meant that batting would be difficult but early breakthroughs paramount. He thought the conditions would also help his inexperienced attack of Davis and Hill.

It did not take long for Windsor to make the conditions count, as Nichols removed one of the openers to a fine catch at 2nd slip to Birch in the 1st over. Nichols was enjoying the new found pace in the wicket as he removed Marlows other opener and 1st drop inside the first 10 overs, caught be keeper Baumgartner to have the visitors reeling at 3/35. Davis at the other end was doing a superb job, bowling tight while Nichols capitalised on his good work at the other end.

Unfortunately the 1st of several rain delays haltered Windsors momentum. After the 20 minute break Windsor had to start again. Marlow capitalised on this but the 4th wicket eventually did fall as Nichols gained his 4th to a peach of an inswinger to cartwheel the Marlow SAF overseas middle stump!

Nichols then gained Marlows main man in Paskins to gain his 5th wicket and the have Marlow looking down the barrel at 5/69.

From here yet another rain delay pushed its way into the game. An early lunch was taken, As Marlow sought a way to carry on to the 44th and final over in the rain reduced fixture.

Unfortunately for Windsor, the rain in the outfield made the ball as slippery as soap. The rain had found its way into the seam reducing the movement the ball was offering Windsor, and from here Marlow found their stride.

Nichols claimed his 6th wicket to have Marlow 6/97 but a crucial 7th wicket partnership blew the game right open. With Hill struggling at the other end with the different conditions, Nichols was left the shoulder the burden as Mohindru was introduced to take the pace off the ball.

Marlow after getting a sighter, took full advantage of the bowling change, and punished the veteran off spinner by hitting some big 6's! Nichols was also coming in for some treatment, and some embarrassing moments in the slippery out field meant that Marlow was let right back into the game. From being 6/97, Marlow moved onto 8/175 off their allotted 44 overs.

This was a devastating for Windsor who had done all the hard work in the lead up, but let it all unravel in the last 10 overs, as Marlow scored 70 runs to push the game back in their favour.

Nichols was the mainstay of the attack claiming 7/59 off 22 continuous overs. Mohindru claimed 1/60 off 9 with Davis unlucky not to get more overs took 0/14 off 5. The rain and harsh conditions did make fielding tough, but there was no excuse for the embarrassing way Windsor capitulated under the Marlow pressure.

A 10 minute break saw Windsor face the tough ask of 4 runs an over in terrible conditions. Marlow with a new ball on a seamers paradise, claimed Chana for 0. Chorley followed a few overs later caught and bowled. At one end Hampton bowled a sublime spell of fast bowling getting the ball to talk as he removed Bird to a sublime delivery to be caught behind as Windsor had faltered to 3/19.

Millman and Nichols set about rebuilding the innings as they persevered in the tough conditions. Marlow could smell blood in the water as they set in for the kill, but the two Windsor batsmen stuck it out putting on 80 runs to build the score to 3/104 in the 30th over.

Windsor where well in the box seat, with Nichols well set and Millhouse hitting some solid shots but disaster struck when Millman fell for 35 to a fine leg cutter he fending off his chest to be caught at 1st slip. Birch than played a meek shot next ball, to leave Windsor 5/104 with 9 overs to go.

With batting difficult to get going without spending time at the wicket, Nichols was the only hope as he tried to keep the run rate ticking. He got his 50, but then Davis was removed shortly after LBW. Hill than fell next over for 0 and all hope Windsor had of winning fell with him.

Nichols in a valiant quest to keep the runs coming was then removed for 58, leaving Baumgartner and Monhindru to save a draw. Mohindru kept the visitors in the hunt losing his wicket with 3 overs to spare, but Kellard came in and was solid as a rock, to prevent Marlow form getting the extra points they really did deserve, and spare Windsor a 0 and 2 start to the season!

It was a game that was heavily influenced by the weather and a shame that Windsor, although winning the toss, where most adversely affected by it. In saying that the game was lost in the last 10 overs they where in the field, as a score of 140 would have been more than achievable, and had gotten Windsor 20 crucial points that they are going to need in this difficult league.

The only good things to come out of the day was the continued good form of Millman, the tight bowling of Davis and the performance of skipper Wes Nichols. Its not very often a player can claim 7/59, top score with 58 and be 1 wicket away from being on a losing side...

This Windsor side has alot of questions to ask themselves in the next few weeks, and the work to answer them starts at training.

There where murmurs at the ground from the Marlow visitors and others, that Windsor seems to be a one man team... The Windsor skipper was embarrassed to hear this, but only the 10 other lads fronting up next week can silence those voices...

Finger crossed the weather will hold out and Windsor can prove to everyone how good a side they can be. Time will tell.

Windsor Can't Match It With Datchet!

2008-05-11T10:07:00.005Z

WINDSOR 196 (10 points)
Birch 48
Malloch 45

lost to

DATCHET 4/196 (20 points)
Aldiss 107*

The Thames Valley League finally got underway on Saturday as Windsor travelled to derby rivals Datchet amid sensational weather usually reserved for July or August. The banter started early as Datchet skipper Mark Sheppard proclaimed his side would 'humiliate' the Windsor outfit in the local press. Datchet have a lot of pressure heaped on them this season as they are popular favourites to take the title, whereas Windsor are looking towards the future and to consolidate the side blooding new players and enhancing their contribution.

The game saw the debut of Harmet Chana, and the return of Chris Kellard and Alex Hill, who spent all of 2007 in the 2nd XI. Selectors believe that their time has come to play their part in the 1st XI. The Datchet wicket was superb for this time of the year and the sunny weather during the week helped produce a belter, that upon winning the toss, skipper Wes Nichols decided to bat on first.

Chorley and Chana started in vibrant fashion, dispatching 33 runs off the first 3 overs! But once the ball started to swing, the scoring dried up, on the back of fine bowling for Datchet stalwart Andy Dick. In the 9 the over, Chana (15) showed a little inexperience, looking to play through mid wicket to Dick, who squared him up and had him LBW. The hard surface was to Dick's liking as he grabbed another 2 wickets in quick succession in Bird (5) to a peach of a delivery taking off stump and Nichols (0) in a contentious caught behind. Millman and Chorely began to fight back taking the score up to 50, before another difficult decision went against the visitors as Chorely (38) perished to the enigmatic Tilley LBW. Millman (12) than joined the top order, who were watching the game from the pavilion, also LBW to Tilley to push Windsor to the brink at 5 for 60. Datchet were well on top and it was no surprise that once Dick was removed from the attack, Windsor started to grab the ascendancy through Malloch and Birch. The two built a partnership through superb running between the wickets and dispatching the bad delivery. They were particularly harsh on Tilley, as Datchet allowed Windsor to obtain valuable bonus points as the side moved to 170, before Birch (48) fell to J Dick to a full toss on leg stump! This brought Hill to the crease as the running between wickets continued to impress as Malloch (45), looking to grab more bonus points was superbly caught on the boundary. The lower order in Kellard and Mohindru where left to prod Windsor to 200, after Hill (15) departed, but they could only muster a couple more runs as Windsor folded on 196.

Its was a fair performance considering the obstacles that where placed in front of them, and at one stage whilst at 5/60, 196 looked no chance. Birch and Bevan were great, but the fact remains that if they could have stuck around, a score more than 200 would have been achieved.

Windsor started well and truly on the front foot as Nichols knocked over Sheppard caught at 1st slip to the 2nd ball of the innings. Bevan struggled at the other end while Nichols bowling with great pace had George proddding around outside off. Thankfully for Datchet Tim Aldiss did not have that problem as he took his time early on and belted some glorious shots and started to gain the ascendancy. Hill was then introduced and he bowled a sublime spell of bowling to a well set batsmen in Aldiss, teasing him out side off stump getting great carry. But for all the effort Windsor where unable to knock over the mercurial left hander as he had scored his 50 with Datchet's score on 68! Spin was then introduced as Mohindru had George caught by skipper Nichols and Windsor started to believe. Drinks came and went and with new batsmen Tilley, looking to play his shots, young leg spinner Kellard as introduced. With Datchet's score moving to 2/130, Nichols was hoping that Kellard could claim a few wickets to get the side some more bonus points. The plan worked as Kellard had Tilly caught at 1st slip by Nichols, who incidentally let his side down next ball, by grassing new batsmen Jones, in what was a much simpler chance!This was just the benefit Datchet needed as they moved ever closer to the target. Aldiss brought up his 100 after hitting some magnificent 6's but Windsor did claim some consolation as Mohindru gave Windsor another bonus point by claimed Jones LBW. In the end Datchet got the required total 4 wickets down with 13 overs the spare.

The difference between the two sides was Aldiss. The fact he scored 110* in a total of 196 pretty much tells the story as to how valuable he is to Datchet's chances in 2008. If he stays fit Datchet will be right up there by seasons end. As for Windsor they played very well. Cricket is all about swings and round abouts, and to be frank some umpiring decisions did not go thier way. In saying that, that's cricket! Fingers crossed a few 50/50's go Windsor's way later on in the season! It should be said that the better side certainly won, Datchet truly deserve the bragging rights much more than Windsor.

Birch, Malloch and Chorely batted best for Windsor. Hill was the pick of the bowlers, even though he went wicketless. Windsor were sublime in the field with Bird and Chana in particular doing great things! All in all, to take 10 points away from a side like Datchet was a fine effort, and looking forward to the rest of the season, Windsor is sure to ruffle a few sides feathers.

MILLMAN, MALLOCH AND BIRCH THE SAVIOURS!

2008-04-28T09:48:00.004Z

WINDSOR 166 (45 overs)
Millman (45), Malloch (38) and Birch (15*)

Defeated

BOYNE HILL 165 (45 overs)
Kellard 5/37 (7 overs)

After the freezing conditions in the previous weeks trial, the weather gods shone down upon a beautiful Saturday morning as Windsor headed to Boyne Hill for their 2nd installment of their pre-season. Windsor chose exactly the same side that played Egham the week previous as they try to build momentum heading up to the league.

Skipper Wes Nichols won the toss and had no hesitation in bowling on a green but soft wicket, that he assumed would get easier to bat on, as the day progressed.

With Birch seemingly no where in the sight, Windsor had to take the field with 10 men, as Malloch and Nichols resumed their combination from last season. They turned the screws on the Boyne Hill openers, in conditions that where tough for batting. After 10 overs Nichols struck with the last ball of his spell claiming Cousins caught and bowled.

Nichols then introduced a previously absent Birch who bowled with out luck, claiming the edge a few times and having a sharp chance shelled at cover. All this while Malloch at the other end, was bowling with decent rhythm but throwing in the odd random poor ball.

With the batsmen getting more settled against pace, Mohindru was introduced to dry up the runs. This built the required pressure and soon Hobson was caught by Nichols at cover to make Boyne Hill 2/80 after 19. A score of 200+ looking on the cards until Nichols and Mohindru combined to put the squeeze on the middle order. Boyne Hill skipper Tom Mellor scored his 50, but no else really shone as Mohindru claimed his wicket to a fine catch from Riches and the middle order struggled to get the ball away.

With brakes well and truly on, Boyne Hill trudged to 3/130 off 32. Kellard was introduced to tempt the middle order. Attacking fields were set to tempt the batsmen over the top. Kellard took a few overs to get his bearings, but once he did he cut through the Boyne Hill middle/lower order. Ex-Windsor player Smith holed out to extra cover as another ex-Windsor player Nick Cornish was stumped. Kellard began to toss the bowl up and the urge from the inexperienced Boyne Hill batsmen proved too much as they were knocked over for 165.

Malloch chimed in at the death to claim 2 well deserved late wickets, but it was Kellard getting the bowling honors with 5/36 off 7. Mohindru and Nichols were at their miserly best as 165 was thought to be a par total considering the conditions.

Openers Chana and Chorley looked to consolidate early on but a sublime spell of medium bowling from Preston put the brakes on. Windsor where 0/10 off 10 and there was a real lack of effort in running in between he wickets, this heaped loads off pressure on the middle order. This is an area that MUST improve! Chorley (1) was bowled by Preston playing around one from the metronomic Preston and Bird came to the crease. The painfully slow outfield made scoring difficult as Chana (11) gave into the pressure and holed out to extra cover.

From here wickets were lost regularly and the precision bowling of Boyne Hill, used the familiar conditions, put the punch into Windsor’s middle order. Bird (23) played on trying to force the pace, Riches (0) was unlucky to be given LBW to an inside edge and Nichols (1) was run out trying to rotate strike leaving the visitors looking down the barrel at 5 for 65 after 27 overs.

The loss of wickets was a direct result of the top order being unable to rotate strike. This was due to poor running, superb bowling and a very slow outfield. It was left to Millman and Malloch to show the other guys how it is done!

Millman and Malloch slowly set about re-building the innings with superb rotation and hitting the odd boundary. With 6 an over needed Windsor where always in the hunt with these two at the crease and some experienced batting meant that with 6 overs to go, Windsor needed 30 to win. The two had put on 70 before Millman was caught at cover for 45. A gallant knock that put the Windsor side in the box seat.

Birch and Malloch set about the chase in systematic style with brilliant running between the wickets the unorthodox style of Birch reducing the target to 3 off 1 over. Malloch (35) then fell with the finish line well in sight. This brought Mohindru the wicket who was run out but with 1 ball remaining and 1 run needed, Birch (15*) guided the side home in an exciting game.

The best part of the win was the fact that Windsor scored 100 runs in the last 15 overs where conditions where most suited to bowling with a very slow outfield. They paced their chase perfectly, with Malloch, Millman and Birch being the real heroes of the day.

The top order tried their best to keep things a float and a bit more rotation of the strike would have prevented this game from coming down to the wire. But in saying that, the Boyne Hill attack were outstanding with their disciplined lines, and that combined with the turgid out field, was probably asking too much of the Windsor top order, Boyne Hill deserved all the credit, they were too good!

As for Windsor's bowling, Kellard was good and the wickets should help his confidence. he bowled alot better when the bowl was tossed up and hopefully he will earn form this, he is an attacking option that should be called upon consistently if he keeps up the form. Birch was unlucky to go wicketless and Malloch done a great job at the death.

It was really Nichols and Mohindru who should get all the accolades, as they put Windsor well in the box seat with a uncompromising bowling partnership that yielded an amazing 12 runs in 12 overs! A great effort especially from Mohindru who is rumoured to turn 56 next week!

From here it is back to Home Park as Windsor play the strong Enfield. It will be a good test to see exactly where they are. With Malloch unavailable and 2nd XI bats hardly knocking down the door, it will be interesting to see what is the make up of the side. It will also be nice to play on a deck that should provide a more sporting contest for the batsmen.

CHANA STEPS UP AND MILLMAN TURNS BACK THE CLOCK...

2008-04-21T10:50:00.002Z

The season finally got started for the Windsor CC 1st XI last Saturday as they played host to Egham CC in their first trial of the season. As the sleet and 7 degree temperatures covered the players like a wet blanket, short sleeve shirts where swapped for jackets and thermal wear!

Upon inspection the captains found that the ground staff had done a superb job and the wicket looked in pristine condition for this time of the year. New skipper Wes Nichols unfortunately lost his first toss as Egham decided to have a bat in the arctic conditions.

Bevan Malloch and Oliver Birch took the new ball as both shook free the early season cobwebs. It was the self proclaimed giant killer Oliver Birch who kept his past reputation in tact, as he got the initial break throughs in the 5th over. He bowled Smith with a peach that would have knocked over Michael Vaughan and then Hall 2 balls later! This was followed up by Malloch, whom by this stage has settled into a nice groove and claimed Egham skipper Watmore LBW, to have the visitors reeling at 3 for 15.

Egham posted a fine recovery with their overseas Boucher, punishing some poor bowling from the enigmatic Birch and gaining some momentum. The new batsmen Smith struggled at first with the introduction of Nichols playing out a few maidens, he was very lucky to survive a LBW, and should probably buy a pint to his team-mate who turned down the appeal...

From here he decided to make full use of the short boundary and unleashed some massive strikes over midwicket to ease the stagnated run-rate to the mirth of the Windsor skipper.

Mohindru was then introduced and gained immediate effect claiming the scalp of Boucher as Nichols knocked over the new batsmen Jones to bring No. 7 Hamilton to the crease.

From here the next 10 overs where all Egham as the introduction of Kellard saw Smiths eyes light up, as he belted the hapless young leg spinner. As the partnership brought Egham to 140/5 off 30 overs, Nichols reintroduced Malloch who tied things up and gambled by giving Mohindru his final over from the shorter boundary end. The flatter trajectory would prove more difficult for Smith to get underneath as he was caught by Birch as he went to the well one too many times. It was the end of a dashing knock that saved the guests from embaressment.

This change meant that Nichols had 2 overs up his sleeve. He choose prolific non-bowler Stuart Millman to complete the job. Most days he would struggle to get a bowl in a Chinese restaurant, but today was his day as he finished with 3/9 off 2 overs, Kellard would have paid £100 for even one of them!

Kellard bowled very well at the death as the pair along with desperate fielding restricted Egham to 30 runs off the last 7 overs, meaning Windsor would be chasing 189 for victory.

Windsor started cautiously as Chana and Chorley looking to consolidate in the first 10 overs to set a platform for Windsor’s explosive middle order. The constant drizzle started to impair the bowlers as they slid around and batting became more difficult as the ball stuck in the wicket.

This did not stop Chorley by punishing anything short and wide on his off stump and Chana from playing some exquisite strokes of his legs. The opening partnership got to 50 and Windsor were on track.

Chorley (38) than fell in the 18th over trying to forge ahead of the run rate and with wickets in hand was the right move. This brought Bird to the crease but the sluggish wicket made scoring freely near impossible if you didn’t have enough time to get in.

The asking rate was 6/7 an over needed from the remaining overs, which would have been easy in better conditions but the slow conditions meant Bird (1) got bowled trying to force the pace.

Unfortunately the drizzle turned into rain and both captains decided it would be best to finish the game up now rather than risk serious injury and hyperthermia. Chana (53*) and Riches (10*) in a fine cameo, were the not out batsmen as Windsor finished on 2/107, the rain ruining what would have been an exciting finish.

There where many positives in the day. Chana’s batting showed that he may have what it takes to nail down an openers birth in the 1st XI. He lead a fine batting performance that unlike last season held greater value on their wickets. The opening combination with Chorley looks to have got off to a solid start.

Windsor in 2008 must be vigilant at the crease and not give into pressure. These two were a fine example of what skipper Nichols, is trying to drum into the side. Fingers crossed it will continue.

Malloch and Mohindru where the pick of the bowlers and Nichols is hoping they will only improve as time goes on. Birch was inconsistent, dishing up diamonds one ball than rocks the next! Kellard also took some heavy tap in the very tough conditions but both stuck at it. These two lads will benefit with more overs under their belts in the coming trials.

All in all it was a pleasing day from a playing view point and it’s just a shame that this ridiculous weather hampered what would have been a very close game.

2007-06-15T12:58:00.000Z

Close, but not close enough.

Windsor 223 for 6; 52 Overs
Basingstoke 2’s 175 for 8; 48 Overs

After the remarkable phoenix-like comeback of the week before, Windsor first eleven hit the road again to take on Basingstoke seconds last Saturday. Missing three regulars, a much changed Windsor team won the toss and skipper Craig Bird won the toss and chose to bat first on what looked to be a good wicket.

As with recent weeks, the wicket had moisture to start with and the overcast conditions early on, saw the ball moving around in exaggerated fashion. Whilst neither of the Basingstoke bowlers was of express pace, they would prove to be slippery as eels as Bird and Davis found it tough going, reaching 18 off the first ten overs. After a snail-like start and as the ball began to loose its lustre, the Windsor pair began to counter attack and reached the fifty opening partnership near the 20th over. Just as Bird began to break loose, he was unlucky to be adjudged caught down the legside off the Basingstoke off-spinner. Davis soon joined him back in the pavilion, chopping on trying to cut a ball too close to do so. When Chorley fell shortly after, the vultures looked to circling once again on another Windsor innings.

However, the resilience of Nichols and Millman shone through and the innings began to gain momentum. Millman playing with great fluidity was unlucky to go when a big score was on the cards. Hartridge then continued his good work from the previous week and Windsor began to build a strong total.

Despite losing both Nichols and Hartridge as they tried to push the score on, Howard and Birch were able to build on the strong platform and running like gazelles between the wickets, took the score past 200 as Basingstoke began to flag in the field. With the final two overs producing some thundering blows, Windsor reached a competitive total of 223 off their allotted 52 overs.

Whilst a good total, on what was felt to be a good pitch, Windsor knew they needed to work hard in the field to put pressure on a young Basingstoke side. Some fine tight bowling early from Nichols and Condon, coupled with athletic fielding, paid dividends in the 9th over, when Birch enticed a leading edge from the left-handed opener and he was caught at point. With Nichols bowling maidens at one end, Birch continued to attack from the other, picking up further wickets along the way. Basingstoke were however always in touch with the run-rate and with wickets in hand looked well set to attack the target.

The key moment of the innings came shortly after drinks, when a Condon swooped in like a hawk on a quick single and ran out the Basingstoke number 5 with a direct throw. This saw a mini-collapse then ensue. With Nichols replacing Birch down the hill, the vital wicket of the Basingstoke captain saw the home team on the precipice at 145 for 8.

A belligerent 9th wicket partnership would then snuff out the game and saw Windsor denied what would have been a hard fought victory. With only a difficult over shoulder skied catch given in the last 10 overs, Basingstoke seemed more interested in picking up a few batting points, rather than attempting to achieve the six runs an over required to win. As a result, the game would peter out to a dull draw.

A good all-round team performance by Windsor should and could have yielded more than the 14 points given. But as the result saw them leap-frog Basingstoke in the table, Windsor could take some solace from that fact.

With the three regulars returning this weekend, Windsor skipper Craig Bird faces a somewhat positive selection headache for Saturday’s game at Chiswick. Yet, with the first eleven squad now showing more signs of life, competition for spots is certainly hotting up.

2007-06-05T22:31:00.000Z

Every Bear has his day!

Windsor 195 for 7; 52 Overs (Nichols 95*)
Hillingdon Manor 181 all out; 40.2 Overs

After the pounding that the Windsor first eleven had received the previous week on the field and by the local press, the visit of Hillingdon Manor last Saturday was seen as a prime opportunity for the team to fight back. What ensued was an incredible comeback from the jaws of what could have been a second humbling within a week.

Upon winning the toss, and sensing a chance to give his batsmen a chance to redeem them for the previous week, Windsor skipper Craig Bird won the toss and choice to bat first. Whilst the sun was shining the pitch was still very damp from the week’s rain and the Hillingdon Opening bowlers found good movement early on. Windsor again lost early wickets, with Bird, Davis, Huggins and Howard all out bowled playing nervous shots in the early overs. Wes Nichols and Stuart Millman began to recover the innings before Millman was caught a square with score on 40. The loss shortly after of Mohindru left Windsor reeling at 42 for 6.

The first crucial partnership then ensued, as Tom Hartridge joined Wes Nichols and slowly began to rebuild the innings. With the ball ageing and Nichols beginning to find his form, the pair began to blunt the Hillingdon attack and frustrate the bowlers as they were looking to wrap the innings up. They put on a valuable 30 run partnership, before Hartridge was caught with a fine diving effort at point.

Bevan Malloch then joined Nichols and the pair began to turn the match on its head. Early steady going belied the onslaught in the last ten overs, as Nichols flew past fifty and Malloch worked the ball around, maintaining the strike for his fellow antipodean. Sensing the opportunity to build a target at which to bowl at, the Windsor opening bowlers began to play some lusty blows. The final two overs were smashed for over 30 and Windsor found themselves on 193 for 7 after their 52 overs, a fantastic turnaround masterminded by Nichols and his fine 95 off nearly 40 overs and ably supported by a fine 43 from Malloch.

After a quick tea, the pair were at it again straight away. Nichols blasted in from the Castle End and removed the Hillingdon opener, caught by Malloch one handed at first slip. Malloch then returned the favour and had the number three caught by Nichols at short midwicket. The pair continued to chip away wickets and despite an incredible cameo from Suther, Hillingdon were five down. Nervous fielding from Windsor then brought Hillingdon back into the game as they began to chip away at the target. Only fine bowling from Mohindru and a wonderful stumping of Lines would put pay to this as Hillingdon reached 150 for 8. The final acts were cast by Windsor’s batting heroes as Malloch removed the number 9, after a plucky knock, then Nichols won the match with a sensational catch off Mohindru.

Incredibly, Windsor had snatched 25 points from a game that they had looked all along like losing, winning in the end by 14 runs. Whilst much celebrating followed the game, the general feeling was that the team had been fortunate to win. An incredible all-round effort from Nichols (95 runs, 3 wickets and 2 catches), ably supported by Malloch (43 runs, 3 wickets and a catch) were the difference between the sides in the end and Windsor know that they need to perform better as a team a build bigger and better scores.

This coming Saturday, Windsor travels to Basingstoke to take on their second team. On what is a free scoring deck, it is a chance for the top order to make amends for the previous two weeks.

2007-05-28T20:43:00.000Z

Local derby decided by major collapse

Windsor 66 all out 28 Overs (Dick 6 for 18)
Datchet 67 for 1 20 Overs

After the disappointment of the previous weeks last over loss, Windsor were looking to the local derby against Datchet to make amends. Unfortunately for Windsor, the desired result was far from what occurred. With overcast conditions prevalent and rain forecast within the next twenty-four hours, the conditions were perfect for seam and swing bowling, so upon winning the toss Datchet inserted Windsor to bat first.

Windsor openers Bird and Davis found the conditions difficult and tight Datchet bowling saw only 18 coming off the first 10 overs. With Datchet opening bowlers Andy Dick and Luke Shepherd produced prodigious swing and applied extra pressure. Bird looked to force the proceedings but only found the leading edge of his bat and he popped a catch to James Dick off his brother’s bowling. Millman joined Davis, but he too could not get going and was unlucky when Shepherd had him trapped lbw. Huggins soon joined him back in the pavilion shortly afterwards and Windsor were struggling with only 30 on the board for 3 wickets. Nichols provided some resistance and Davis looked to counter attack, but he soon fell to a fine out-swinger from Dick. When Riches became the 5th wicket, Davis tried to counter attack, only to fall as well for 17. Brief cameos from Mohindru and Lines had little affect on the score and a fine Datchet fielding performance saw Windsor bundled out for just 66. Andy Dick was the pick of the bowlers with 6 wickets.

The Datchet reply got under instantly, however a similar pattern of tight bowling from Windsor did not produce the same result. Despite finding good movement, Windsor opening bowlers Nichols and Malloch were unable to break the Datchet openers Mark Shepherd and Mark George. With such a low total to defend, the runs would come along slowly but surely. The introduction of spin saw Windsor take their first wicket with a fine spinning delivery from Mohindru. But neither he nor his spin partner of Mark Lines could build sufficient pressure and Datchet cruised home to a 9 wicket victory.

A comprehensive victory for Datchet was also a real shot in the arm to the Windsor first team. With so many batsmen losing their wickets to playing across the line, the wet early season conditions are not being adapted to. Some hard work and practice will be put into place to make the result this week merely a blip. Solace may be taken in the fact that of the five Division 2A games played last Saturday, three resulted in very low scores, which may be in part due to the poor conditions.

The Windsor team will look to bounce back this weekend with Hillingdon Manor visiting The Home Park.

2007-05-25T12:41:00.000Z

Windsor struck by Achilles Heel

Windsor 207 for 8 52 Overs (Howard 51)
Wokingham 2nd XI 208 for 8 47.2 Overs (Beals 76; Nichols 5 for 70)

After a resounding win the week before, Windsor finally reached home soil after starting the league and pre-season on the road. With overcast conditions and a week of heavy rain, the toss would always prove critical and it was to no surprise when upon winning the toss, Wokingham sent Windsor into bat.

Windsor openers Bird and Davis found it tough going early on, with the conditions favouring the tight Wokingham bowling. The occasional bad ball was put away, and a run rate of 3 an over was hard to achieve. It was however, a surprise when skipper Bird (22) fell in the 15th over with the score on 45, to a sharp catch in the slips off a good leg-cutter from Ali. Doye joined Davis and the runs became slower to come by as the lack of pace suited neither batters’ game. Davis (19) finally connected with a typical left-handed waft outside the off stump to Ali leaving Windsor 66 for 2 off 22 overs. Huggins, in unusually sedate form, also struggled to adjust and despite some typically lusty blows, fell leg-before to the Mathews’ off-spin. Chorley fell shortly after, playing too early on the drive and the calamitous run-out of Wes Nichols summed up how Windsor had succumbed a good start to being unable to push on.

After losing Doye for erstwhile 35 and Birch for 0, Windsor was in danger of not posting a decent target when they were 140 for 7 off 42 overs. Fortunately, Bevan Malloch joined Paul Howard to provide the foil for the latter to begin to really get going. With Malloch rotating the strike well, Howard began a vicious onslaught that resulted in a 36-ball half century and gave Windsor the chance to post 200. With Howard falling for 51, it was left to some big hitting from Javaid to take Windsor to a final total of 207. Whilst a decent total, there was some concern that the pitch was drying out and becoming easier to bat on.

As with the previous week, Malloch and Nichols found precocious swing and the former struck in his first over once again, removing Neat for 0. When Malloch struck again in his very next over, Windsor were on top with Wokingham 2 down for very few. At this point Beals joined Browitt and started what would prove to be a match winning innings. Returning to cricket for the first time in 2 years, the former first team player rode his luck early on, playing and missing to some fine bowling from the Windsor pair. But as the ball aged and the wicket eased, Beals, ably assisted by Browitt and then Noden, began to move Wokingham into a match-winning position.

Nichols then would return from the Castle End to begin an inspired spell of bowling. In the space of 5 overs, he removed Beals, Noden and three other Wokingham wickets with fast reverse swing bowling, decapitating the off stump on two occasions. Wokingham crashed from 150 for 3 to 164 for 8. Only a brave innings from Achilles would defy his fellow Aussie and the Wokingham overseas player guided his young partner Jain towards the finishing line. With 8 needed off the last over, an outside edge and then cover drive from the next ball, saw Wokingham home with four balls to spare.

The Windsor team were left devastated by the narrow margin of defeat, but were left to ponder on how they had let the game slip away in the middle section when wickets had dried up. The 14 points earned though, pushed Windsor to second in Division 2A.

This week’s local derby against Datchet is bound to be a tense affair, with the home side looking to avenge the defeat in the warm-up game only a few weeks earlier.

2007-05-14T12:52:00.000Z

Bend it like Bevan

Burnham 99 all out 31.4 Overs (Malloch 6 for 50; Nichols 4 for 47)
Windsor 100 for 2 25 Overs (Bird 51)

The Thames Valley league season started initially under umbrellas for Windsor CC first eleven last Saturday, but would prove to finish under blue skies and an impressive victory.

After travelling the short distance to Burnham and with the covers still on the wicket, Windsor were asked to field first in overcast conditions. However, in the midst of the final warm-ups before the start of the game, the heavens opened and play was unable to start on time. After a near hour and a half delay and with the game reduced to 72 overs in total, play would finally get underway.

The visitors were immediately on top as Wes Nichols removed Burnham’s left-handed opener with a fast, accurate bouncer that he could only bunt to Davis at mid-wicket. Bevan Malloch, playing his first league game for the club, would then join in on the action removing two further wickets, leaving Burnham 1 for 3 after 4 overs. Making the most of the ball swinging, the Windsor new ball pair continued to attack, with both picking up further early wickets to leave Burnham precariously set at 17 for 5. A brief cameo from the Burnham keeper and their young talent saw the score rise towards the century, but Windsor continued to stay on top by taking wickets and pulling off some stunning fielding (including a spectacular diving catch by Hartridge). When Malloch took his sixth wicket to end the innings, Burnham closed with a score of 99.

Windsor began their reply with regular openers Craig Bird and Brian Davis. With one eye on the weather, there was a general feeling that trying to knock the runs off quickly would be the best approach. Fortunately for Windsor, despite some early movement, Burnham’s bark was far worst than their bite, as they were soon on top. The entertaining (if somewhat unoriginal) banter being put forward by the Burnham field was simply focusing the Windsor pair and the score soon past 50 without loss. With Davis playing the supporting role, the Windsor skipper Bird, started to play some searing shots to all parts and passed fifty with ease. However, Bird (51) lost his wicket to slightly overambitious shot and the opening partnership was broken at 72. Millman joined Davis and pair patiently worked their way towards the target. With the winning post in sight and Burnham reverting to part-time bowlers, Davis (22) top edged a full toss to deep square leg and Windsor lost their second wicket, thereby giving Burnham their first league point. Huggins joined the fray, playing in typically aggressive fashion had no intention on hanging around and the target of 100 was reached soon after. Windsor had won by 8 wickets and quite simply outplayed Burnham in aspects on the day.

The win was greeted with delight by the Windsor team and was testament to the team effort on the day. The accurate bowling was matched by some athletic fielding and then the game completed by a measured approached to the batting. With more yet in the locker, the team confidence is high for season ahead.

Wokingham visit The Home Park this coming Saturday, as the Windsor first team return from a lengthy road spell for their first home game of the season. With confidence high, the team will look to continue the winning ways.

2007-05-09T12:04:00.000Z

Windsor outclassed in final warm-up game.

Enfield 240 for 3; 40 Overs (Tilley 83; Coughlan 50)
Windsor 140 for 9; 40 Overs

With the league season fast approaching, Windsor 1st eleven played their final warm-up game away at Enfield. As a Middlesex County League 1st Division club, it was always due to be a tough assignment. On what looked to be a hard, fast track, Enfield won the toss and chose to make first use of the facilities.

Windsor opened the bowling with promising prospect Jonathan Holmes and newcomer Bevan Malloch. Both bowled well, finding swing and movement and were unlucky not to take early wickets. With outfield quick, anything slightly wide was being dispatched for four and Enfield were cruising at 5 an over from the onset. Malloch finally managed the first breakthrough in the 8th over, removing Pearson for 18 with a swinging ball that beat his drive. This saw Coughlan join Higgs and continue the aggressive attack.

Windsor then looked to slow things down at one end with the introduction of Mohindru. The fast pitch was much to the Windsor veteran’s liking and he began to garner some incredible bounce. He was finally rewarded when he removed Higgs for 34. Tilley then joined Coughlan and then began to forge a very strong partnership. Even the introduction of Wes Nichols did to slow the run rate sufficiently, as Enfield’s score began to grow. With some excellent running between the wickets putting the fielders under pressure, runs continued to flow. Chris Kellard’s leg-spin was introduced, but a lack of grip made him easy prey as both batsmen passed 50 with ease. Nichols, returning for the final four overs, managed to remove Coughlan for 50 with a leg-cutter through to the keeper. But Jim Gatting, (son of former England captain Mike) carried on the onslaught. Gatting and Tilley continued to plunder the Windsor bowling and Enfield closed their innings with 240 from their 40 overs.

The Windsor reply started briskly until Davis was caught at mid-on from a leading edge for 11 off Richards bowling. Weston was then removed by a fine off-cutter from Robertson and Windsor’s innings began to falter. A few lusty blows from Riches calmed the waters shortly, but only skipper Craig Bird, looked in any way settled at the crease. The introduction of the spin duo of Jackson and Harding put the handbrake on the Windsor innings with Chorley and Bird struggling to meet the fast-increasing run rate required.

The loss of Chorley, first over after drinks, with the score on 79, saw a flurry of wickets go on the same score. With Bird and Patel also falling without another run being added to the score, the Windsor reply quickly derailed. A brief partnership between Nichols and Malloch, briefly gave the visitors hope, but once both departed the game was lost. A late cameo from Mohindru saw Windsor towards 150. However when the overs ran out, Windsor had lost by 100 runs.

A disappointing game in many ways for The Home Park outfit, more so in the fact that they were the cause of much of their troubles. Better fielding, more consistent lines of bowling and development of partnerships were the key things missing. Yet, all issues that can be worked upon in the coming weeks. The key factor, was talent for talent the teams we well matched, it was just application that was left flagging.

With the league season starting this coming weekend, Windsor can boast a more balanced squad than in previous years. The return of Mark Huggins and development of the club’s younger talent sees the club looking forward to the season with great anticipation. Furthermore, with the introduction of Malloch to take the new ball with Nichols, it should provide Windsor’s Australian overseas player the chance to bowl in an attacking manner this season, rather than merely to contain.

Windsor begins their Division 2A campaign this Saturday with the trip to local rivals Burnham

2007-05-02T12:21:00.001Z

Windsor edge local derby thriller

Datchet 168 all out; 39.1 Overs (Nichols 5 for 29)
Windsor 169 for 9; 39.2 Overs (Millman 73; Stapleburg 4 for 12)

After the sobering events of last weekend in Egham, Windsor played away to Datchet for their second friendly of the season. Skipper Wes Nichols won the toss and decided to bat first on an under prepared wicket that has some moisture which he thought could help his attack.

After some hiccups with youngster Tom Hartridge taking the new ball being unable to control its swing, Nichols introduced debutant Adnan to accompany him with the bowling duties and with his nagging seamers managed to contain the Datchet order. Superb fielding in the ring by Mark Lines helped dry up runs and Windsor capitalized via the wicket of skipper Sheppard to Nichols.

Adnan’s efforts were superb, as he appears to be the missing link to a Windsor attack that lacked consistency last season. He captured the dangerous George LBW and made life hard for batsmen to score consistently. It appears that Nichols has finally found a seamer who can apply pressure at the other end which augers well for Windsor’s attack. Nichols bowled unchanged for 16 overs to cut the heart out of Datchet and claim 5/29, picking up where he left off last season.

The skipper who had Datchet 90/8 then introduced his spinners to utilize the trial time and while Mohindru as always was economical claiming 3 wickets, the experience of Andy Dick tolled on youngster Mark Lines as he smashed him for 5 sixes to take the home side to 168 all out. Lines will have days like that but as long as he learns from the experience and keeps attacking the batsmen he will be fine. He must learn to be aggressive at all times.

Windsor’s performance in the field was outstanding with the fine bowling one side of the wicket being supported by fantastic fielding in the ring and catching. The highlights being a direct hit from veteran Rahul Mohindru and the athletics’ of Lines and Tom Hartridge. The side is starting to learn that building pressure and drying runs up will create opportunities to capture wickets.

Windsor started poorly with openers Davis and Condon being removed cheaply. This brought about a game changing partnership between Millman and Huggins who punished the rare poor balls bowled by the Datchet attack to take the side to 2/102.

Huggins departed playing across the line for 26 and bringing Chorley to the crease whose form although is very scratchy applied himself to build a partnership before departing adding valuable runs with Millman.

Yet another partnership flowed with youngster Hartridge 17 and Millman 73 before both fell in quick succession, leaving Windsor shaky and needing 20 runs off the last 5 overs! An easy task until Stapleburg produced a dream spell claiming 3 for none as Windsor staggered needing 6 off the last over.

Skipper Wes Nichols batting down the order giving others time in the middle, duly clipped two 4 in as many balls to give Windsor a win it may have otherwise let slip through panic, impatience and nerves. Nichols finished with 16 not out in a useful final performance as skipper before Bird comes back to lead the side next week.

What was pleasing about the day was the fact that the side in the middle order batted in partnerships. Millman was again sublime and is one of the most under rated batsmen in the league as he uses guile and touch to tick the runs along. He will be one of the side’s main assets along with Bird and Huggins when it comes to scoring runs for us this season.

As for the attack Adnan look to be the perfect foil for Nichols who can now attack more and use his variety as a bowler now he has a miser at the other end in who will dry up runs. The fact that Windsor had the best batting side in the division 90/8, speak volumes for its potential.

The side now turns its attention to Enfield next week hoping to continue the good form and lesson it learns week in week out.

2007-04-25T12:31:00.000Z

Windsor CC v Egham CC
Egham 257 for 6 (40 Overs)
Windsor 180 all out (37 Overs)

A new look Windsor First XI took part in its first pre-season trial of 2007, traveling to Egham last Saturday. The day could not of got off to a worst start with debutant Tom Hartridge pulling a tricep in the warm up rendering him unable to bowl or bat for the duration of the trial! Things improved when skipper Wes Nichols won the toss on a docile pitch. To make the most of the trial conditions he wanted to challenge his side and sent the opposition in, the complete opposite of what he would have done in a league game! If he had known what was going to unfold in the next 20 overs, he would have reversed his decision!

The new opening bowling partnership of Birch and Nichols got off to a solid start but it seems that old habits diehard and Windsor yet again dropped 3 chances in the first 10 overs. No matter how much it is drummed into the players that catches win matches, they still seem to fall. Another bugbear of past season reared its weary head in the form of undisciplined bowling both sides of off stump, this combined with the batsmen becoming more confident on an unhelpful pitch for bowlers, saw Egham cruise to 0/147 after 20 overs.

Skipper Nichols read the riot act and the introduction of Mohindru prior to the break and Kellard just after slowed thing and the later got the key wicket of Egham Opener for 102. In a superb performance from the tweakers, wickets fell at regular intervals as Windsor contained Egham to 6/110 in the last 20 to set themselves 257 to win. Fact remained, that the target should have been more in the vicinity of 180, but for the mistakes made in the first 20 overs…

Kellard bowled well to a 6/3 off side field to show it a tactic he should be able to cope with all season. Mohindru, as always, supported the bowlers at the other end, by keeping runs to a minimum whilst picking up wickets. Birch also bowled well without luck and a bit more support in the field could have seen him end up with better figures. His spell at the death also pleased many.

Windsor then got off to a terrible start with Chorley nibbling at a wide one to leave Windsor 1 down after 3 overs. Millman and Davis then resurrected the innings with the pitch playing a few tricks. Davis was adjudged LBW for 18 to one that kept a little low after several balls flew off a length out side off stump. Huggins and Milman played tremendously well both building a partnership that should have won the game. Milman played a tired shot to a full toss and a few overs later Huggins after belting the ball everywhere, played a ridiculous premeditated shot across the line before drinks to lose his wicket and leave Windsor 4/130.

The introduction of Meadows, proved the nucleus of the Windsor capitulation. Nichols and Birch fell playing tame shots, leaving Riches to fly the flag for a valiant 27, proving he will be a real key to Windsor middle order when available.

All in all though it was a good start in the sense that we were able to identify issues that need to be dealt with for the 1st XI to be successful this season. Catches have to taken to capitalize on built up pressure, no one can afford to throw their wickets away and the side has to learn to play with a little more heart than what was displayed at times on Saturday. All they need do is look at a 12-year-old boy, who came in at number 11 for them and see the way he ground out on the field and with the bat in his hands.
Next week is Datchet where the side will get the chance to address the discrepancy found in the game last start

2006-08-31T11:53:00.000Z

General Collapse in Middle-Order dents title hopes
Saturday 26th August

Windsor 204 all out; 47.4 overs (Bird 92; Harper 5 for 31)
Finchampstead 2’s 205 for 7; 50.3 overs (Milne 82)

Windsor’s inconsistent season took another turn this past Saturday as they entertained Finchampstead 2nd XI at The Home Park. On a very damp wicket, Finch skipper Harper won the toss and put Windsor into bat first, looking to take advantage of the conditions.

Windsor on the other looked to attack the new ball early, promoting Charters in the order to play a few strokes. Only a good catch at square was to deny he and Windsor that good start. This brought skipper Bird to the crease and working with Davis the pair began to build a partnership. Bird was particularly harsh on the bowling of Milne, taking 14 off his fourth over. Davis (20), playing the anchor role, was next to go with the score at 66, when an uppish drive was merely chipped to mid-off. The prolific Millman then joined the skipper and again the runs began to flow at a rate of knots. Bird, playing in aggressive style, passed yet another fifty on the way to an 84 run partnership with Millman. With a hundred in sight, Bird was undone by the Finch leg-spinner and duly departed for 92. Windsor then lost Towse cheaply and when Millman followed for 42, the Windsor innings began to lose its way. Clarke saw the engine room of Nichols, Watkins and Grainger for under 20 runs and when Cornish were stumped, they were 192 for 9 with nearly 10 overs still to go. After stumbling past a hundred, Clarke miss-directed his square drive and was caught at point and Windsor was all out for 204 with 4 overs to spare. A disappointing score, after being in such a strong position at 150 for 2.

The Finchampstead reply started in an aggressive manner. But once Grainger had made the initial breakthrough, to a fine catch by Watkins at slip, the brakes were applied and runs dried up. Both Grainger and Nichols bowled great lines, regularly beating the bat and making run scoring next to impossible. When Mohindru took the 4th wicket, Finch found themselves in trouble and looking down the barrels of defeat. Then began a match changing and eventually winning knock by Milne. After being beaten all ends up by Nichols’ away swing, Milne settled in and began to play aggressively to the Windsor spinners. Despite losing his long time partner at the other end, Milne passed fifty and along with skipper Harper, moved Finch to within sight of victory at 190 for 5, with 10 overs to go. Cornish was then introduced into the attack and after an initial poor over, began to bowl with great rhythm. When he then took the crucial wicket of Milne for 82, the Finchampstead hearts began to fluster. With 8 runs to win, Cornish then removed Harper to another fine delivery. Incredibly, with the next two balls, Windsor had half chances of snatching the chance of a late win. First Cornish and then Watkins spilled very tough chances and Finchampstead snuck home for 3-wicket victory.

Windsor were left to rue their chances and their poor batting after the game, knowing that perhaps as little as 15-20 more runs may have swung the game their way. With only two games now remaining, the club are now 20 points behind leaders Bagshot and play them on Saturday. They will be looking to exert maximum pressure on the leaders on Saturday and need to play a consistent 100 overs to take the league to final game of the season.

2006-08-31T11:52:00.000Z

Windsor chases hard to the line
Saturday 19th August

Chiswick & Latymer 281 for 5; 52 Overs (Davis 63, E. Haq 77)
Windsor 279 for 6; 48 Overs (Millman 87, Clarke 83)

After a sub-par performance the week before, Windsor looked to bounce back immediately with a visit to top-of-the-table Chiswick in a battle for top spot. It became immediately obvious what Chiswick’s intentions were, when upon winning the toss on a green-top, they batted first in an attempt to gain maximum batting points and make chasing hard. Whilst a tactic that would mean they had relative control on the flow of the game, it would almost prove to backfire.

Early wickets did not come Windsor’s way once again as whilst Nichols bowled well from one end, Windsor struggle to contain the runs at the other at the other. Chiswick openers Van Den Berg and Davis were both patient with the good balls and punishing with the anything remotely bad. With the score on 40 after 10 overs, Windsor then managed to peg the scoring back as Granger found a consistent length and Nichols bowled maiden after maiden. The pressure told when Granger managed to trap Van Den Berg lbw in the 20th over. Chiswick then struggled to find runs, but it was Windsor who would turn the innings when frustration got the better all round and fielding errors began to slip in. With the loss of Davis for a well-crafted 63, Chiswick were left with 10 overs left and 140 on the board. A vital drop at point off Bangladeshi Test Batsman Haq when he hadn’t scored would soon prove crucial as the home side began to cut loose. The short straight boundary came into affect as Haq looked to go over the top off Nichols, spoiling what had previously been impressive figures. The Windsor fielding continued to falter, with catches dropped all over and only a fabulous run out by Granger being anything like the standard expected. Chiswick managed to plunder 140 off their final 10 overs, setting Windsor 281 to win off the minimum 48 overs and seemingly playing them out of the game.

Windsor endured early pressure from the new ball on a still lively wicket. The scalp of Davis typified this, as he gloved a lifting delivery to the keeper with the score on 12. Bird looked to have settled in well until he hit a thunderbolt to mid-on that was caught well by the fielder. With two early wickets down, Chiswick looked to press home the advantage, but Windsor started to counter attack. With the movement abating and the pitch playing true, Millman and Clarke began to build a huge partnership. Moreover, the pace that they were scoring runs soon saw Windsor back in with a shout in the game. Both passed fifty and seemed set on converting to big hundreds. Luck would conspire against both as first Clarke mistimed a drive off his boot to cover and then, despite building a good partnership with Nichols, Millman too perished in the pursuit of runs, trapped leg before. Nichols took on the aggressive mantle and along with Granger (playing an uncharacteristically restrained supportive role) they managed to get Windsor in sight of victory. With 30 to win off 3 overs, Nichols perished, run out to a direct hit by Haq, bringing Doye to wicket. The tension was unbearable as the last over began and Windsor needed 11 to win. An almighty swing from Doye off ball one gleaned no runs and 4 balls and 7 runs later, Windsor need 4 to win off 1 ball. Granger unleashed a tracer bullet of a straight drive to straight mid on, which was bravely stopped by the Chiswick fielder. Confusion and disappointment in the middle saw Granger run out and Chiswick pick up a vital bonus point. The game ended in a draw, but the 6-point difference between the two teams belied to quality of the game.

After such a nail biting game, Windsor were left with the knowledge that if one piece of the poor fielding earlier in the game had been rectified, the result may have gone their way. As such, they will be looking for an improved performance on their return to the Home Park this week to the visit of Finchampstead.

2006-08-31T11:50:00.000Z

Over-confident Windsor come up short
Saturday 12th August

Windsor 168 all out; 52 Overs (Clarke 53, Harris 7-39)
Basingstoke 2’s 172 for 5; 44 Overs (Bissoon 55)

Buoyed by the win over local rivals Datchet the week before, a confident Windsor entertained Basingstoke last Saturday at Home Park looking for a win to further enhance their push for promotion. Upon winning yet another toss, Windsor skipper Bird elected to bat first in an attempt to push for maximum points.

After an expensive initial over, the Basingstoke openers bowled a tight opening salvo and were rewarded in the 10th over with the wicket of Davis. Bird and Millman began to increase the stroke play slightly, but neither could break free and Windsor struggled to pick up the run rate. The introduction of off-spinner Harris further curtailed Windsor’s scoring and a flurry of wickets saw Bird and then Granger go in the same over to leave Windsor at 64 for 3 as they neared the half way mark. Clarke joined Millman and the two looked to pick up the run flow, but an injudicious shot from Millman curtailed his innings at 37 and Windsor hit another roadblock. Both Nichols and Watkins pushed hard for runs but had no real penetration. It was Clarke’s belligerence and stroke-play that helped Windsor reach a workable total, but when he fell for an excellent 55, the innings quickly petered out. The final total of 168 all out off the full 52 overs was well short of the target desired and was in much part due to the fine bowling of Basingstoke’s Harris, who finished with a excellent 7 for 39.

Basingstoke’s reply was put under immediate pressure as Windsor spinners Watkins and Mohindru took the old ball and looked to attack. The desired affect was found when Basingstoke’s opener was caught out at short leg by Davis in the 9th over. Watkins struck at the other end, picking up two quick wickets, one via a fine catch at slip by Clarke. Their then followed a period that would most likely decide the game. Having survived two relatively straight forward chances early, Bissoon realising his luck was in, played a cavalier knock for the visitors, surviving two run out chances and a missed stumping. He reached his half-century with a characteristic drive back over the bowler’s head that just cleared mid-off’s head. When his luck finally ran out on 55, Windsor again sense the opportunity to attack with Basingstoke still needed over 80 to win. The fifth wicket though proved to be a difficult one to take as the obdurence of the senior player and fearless of youth combined to deny Windsor. When Watkins picked up his fourth and Windsor’s fifth wicket, the game was all but up. Basingstoke, finally reach the target with 5 overs and 5 wickets to spare.

The loss was a difficult one to take for Windsor, but as it would happen, events elsewhere would work in their favour. As many of the top clubs lost to lower opposition, Windsor in fact reduced the gap on leaders Chiswick by 1 point. This Saturday sees Windsor travel to Chiswick in a top of the table clash. With four games to go, a winner here will be in the box seat.

2006-08-09T12:52:00.000Z

Windsor surprise a deflated Datchet

Datchet 134 all out; 35.1 Overs (J Granger 6 for 43)
Windsor 138 for 4; 24.5 Overs (Millman 57)

After a lot had been said from both sides in the local media, the much-hyped game between Datchet and Windsor certainly produce the drama that was expected this past weekend. After Datchet winning away earlier in the season, Windsor were looking to repeat the favour as they travelled the short distance to their local rivals. A near full-strength Windsor, packed with batting was asked to field first as Datchet looked to produce a considerable score for the visitors to chase.

With opening bowlers Nichols and Cornish moving the ball in the air and off the seam, Datchet were immediately under pressure when opener Tilly was removed for 1 by the latter in the 4th over. This brought Datchet’s skipper and “danger-man” Tim Alldiss to the crease to face the early movement. Nichols then produced the “ball of the season” to Alldiss, an away cutter that beat the bat, clipped the off bail but failed to dislodge it. Windsor were initially convinced the audible noise was bat on ball, but soon realised that it was in fact ball on bail, a good decision by the Umpire. With the trap set a deep point, Alldiss finally succumbed three overs later when he flashed at a wide one and skied down Doye’s throat. An ecstatic Windsor then pressed home the advantage, when first Nicholls removed Kash top edging a pull to Mohindru and Shepherd playing on to a wide off-cutter. Windsor own “Danger” was then introduced, and Justin Granger set about working his way through the remains of the Datchet line-up. First removing Smith with a ball that nipped away, with controlled aggression down the hill he picked his way through the Datchet line-up. The temporary resistance from the Jones brothers was belied by a smart catch by Millman in the gully and when brother Adam was the last man to go, Datchet were all out for 134 and Granger had figures of 6 for 43.

Windsor set about the chase in the worst possible way as, through some fine swing bowling from Andy Dick, they found themselves 40 for 3; losing Davis, Bird and Towse cheaply. Millman and Granger then built a match-winning partnership. Both picked up the run-rate significantly through aggressive batting, with Granger particularly brutal outside the off stump to Kash and Millman playing sumptuous cover drives off left-arm spinner James Dick. The final twist in the game came when Datchet had a sharp chance against Millman turned down off the bowling of James Dick. After this point, the game fell away quickly and after completing a fine 57, Millman finally fell to Andy Dick’s leg-spin with Windsor in sight of victory. Nicholls (14*) then joined Granger (44*) and both, whilst completing fine all-round matches, saw Windsor home in style.

The win keeps Windsor in second in Division 2A and increase the gap to twenty-two points on Datchet. Both have big games this weekend, with Windsor facing Basingstoke 2nd’s at Home Park, looking to avenge the loss they suffered earlier in the season. The race for the Division 2A title looks set to be a tight one and could provide an entertaining end to the season.

2006-08-02T08:31:00.000Z

Windsor stifled by negative tactics.

Windsor 257 for 7; 49 Overs (Millman 85, Bird 57)
OMT 208 for 7; 51 Overs (Walter 71)

After the fun and games of the week before, Windsor travelled to bottom club OMT with their sights firmly set on winning the game. Upon winning the toss (again!), skipper Craig Bird had no hesitation in choosing to bat first.

Regular openers Bird and Davis seemed rather more eager to start the game than the home side, as OMT entered the field in dribs and drabs of players looking less than keen. An uncharacteristic shot by Davis saw an early wicket and arguably him miss his chance to cash in. From then on Bird and Millman took root and began to plunder the OMT bowling. Bird completed his fourth half-century in succession and looked set to convert this into a big score until he was caught and bowled sharply by Lamb.

Millman continued to impress with shots all around the ground, particularly severe with the cut and pull on anything short. Granger, returning to the Windsor fold for the first time this year, batted well until to succumbing to an impatient end. Nichols form continues to flag with the bat and a brief cameo came and went before he got settled. Bustling all-rounder Watkins then joined Millman and the scoring rate picked up once again. As Millman neared a deserved century, the Windsor curse struck again as he holed out to mid-on whilst on 85. Chana joined Watkins and provided excellent support as the former captain began to unleash his characteristic big hits as Windsor careered past 200. Upon the loss of Watkins and Mohindru, Windsor reached 250 and declared the innings early and leave 51 overs to bowl out OMT.

The innings start in brisk fashion, as Granger and Nichols probed straight away, with the former picking up a wicket with the final ball of his first over. OMT then began to show some severe fight and went on the attack as the Windsor pace tandem tried in vain to get some life out of the featherbed surface. OMT continued at 5 to 6 an over and set a good foundation for a run chase. Only, when Granger took a fine return catch, was it that the impetus was broken, removing Stamp for a fine 40. Two quick wickets then fell to Nichols’ bouncer and OMT were struggling at 60 for 4.

Then came a period of negative play from the home side. Whilst set well in terms of run rate, the fear of another loss saw them “shut up shop” for 10 overs, preferring to use the pad instead of the bat to Windsor’s spinners. In an attempt to get them interested, Windsor began to lob the ball up more and leave gaping holes in the field. OMT woke up and began to take advantage and the run rate grew once again. Some poor fielding by Windsor saw chances dropped though and the game slowed once again. Lines bowled well on his first team debut, But the desired effect was finally found when Granger returned and took the fifth wicket via a cracking catch by Nichols, by which time though OMT seemed more interested in the 1 extra point for 200 than the 20 points for the win. Then shutters were pulled down and the game petered out to a draw, with Windsor pushing hard to the end, claiming two further wickets.

For a side that had come within 12 runs of chasing 400 earlier in the season to not go after 250 was disappointing, but Windsor’s lack of penetration on a featherbed pitch was also a key factor. This Saturday sees Windsor visit Datchet in a crucial match in terms of the race for the title. With 10 points between first and fourth place, the six remaining games promises to lead to a tight finish a closely fought Division 2A.

2006-08-02T08:30:00.000Z

Falkland own Lord of the Flies!

Windsor 200 for 7; 37 Overs (Davis 59; Bird 56)
Falkland 2’s 201 for 6; 32.4 Overs (Heath 96*)

After a week of sweltering weather throughout the area, last Saturday’s game against Falkland 2nd XI saw Windsor battle mother nature in all her glory. With rain in the air, upon winning the toss, Windsor skipper Craig Bird did not hesitate to bat first.

Some early movement and startling bounce saw Windsor struggle to score at their usual rate. With the score on 37 after 12 overs, the persistent rain that had been around since the start of the day finally took its toll and saw the teams go off.

Two hours and tea interval had passed by the time the game restarted and in a game reduced to the minimum 70 overs, Windsor were immediately under pressure to score fast as they now had 25 overs left to build a competitive total. Immediately, Bird began to attack and force the issue on the resumption of play. The Windsor opening pair of Bird and Davis again set the foundations for a big score and the score passed 100 before Bird finally fell for 56, his third consecutive league fifty. Clarke joined Davis, who having lost his opening partner, passed fifty himself with a big six over mid-wicket. With 10 overs left, the dismissal of Davis saw the run-rate slow slightly, but after the loss of Clarke, Bullock and Nichols cheaply, Watkins kicked into high gear and slotted some big shots to push Windsor towards 200. A final push from Mohindru and Hill saw Windsor pass 200 and set Falkland what they thought was a stiff chase of 201 to win off 33 overs.

A quick turn-around saw Windsor immediately go on the attack and attempt to bowl Falkland out. But with the field in to strive for wickets, Falkland looked to attack from the off with Brown particularly brutal. Poor bowling from Windsor, coupled with some adventurous stroke play saw the rate maintained at around 7 an over. When Nichols finally removed Brown via a smart catch from Baumgartner, Falkland were pegged back slightly, but it only brought Heath to the crease to begin a match-winning innings. After the second Falkland opener was dismissed, Windsor faced two left-handers and struggled again to hold back the tide. Even a huge swam of flies that settled over the ground, could not abate the onslaught and Heath continued to plunder the bowling. With victory in sight, a sudden blip by Falkland opened the door slightly and Windsor saw a glimmer of hope. With 4 overs to go and the rate required at around 7, Heath set about Nichols and plundered 16 off the over to put Falkland in the box seat. Despite a fine penultimate over from Nichols that gleaned only 3 runs and wicket Falkland faced the task of 5 runs of the last over. The near heroics Watkins, who conceded only 1 run and took a wicket from the first three balls, were not enough as Heath survived another near miss to his stumps and the ball trickled for four to spark huge celebrations for the bottom club.

After an eventful but disappointing loss, Windsor still managed to draw 13 points from the game. Which, with rain affecting many other games, saw them reach joint top of TVL division 2 after the weeks play. With Windsor visiting new bottom club OMT this weekend, they see two major changes to the side with young spinner Mark Lines coming in and all-rounder Justin Granger return to the club. A full strength side also sees the return of batsmen Towse and Millman. A win is crucial in their pursuit of promotion.

2006-07-19T12:38:00.000Z

Burnham are put in a spin

Windsor 283 for 4; 52 Overs (Bird 71, Clarke 62*, Watkins 54*, Davis 44)
Burnham 235 all out; 45 Overs (Abbas 88)

This game marked the second half of the league season and in contrast to their first meeting this year, the weather was hot and sunny and the outfield was quick. Upon winning the toss, Windsor skipper Craig Bird won the toss and did not hesitate in taking the opportunity to bat first.

With the ball moving in the humid conditions, early overs were tough going for Windsor opener Davis and Bird. Their patience though, would pay off as the Burnham opening bowlers tired and began to let slip some loose deliveries. The Windsor pair reached yet another 50 opening stand and looked well set at the first drinks break at 69 for 0. A loose shot by Davis (44) though of Abbas, saw him miss out on a fifty and brought Clarke to the crease. After an initial settling period, Clarke began to push along at the same run rate as his captain. Bird then brought up his fifth league fifty of the season. The pair carried on the assault and it was only when Bird went wandering out of crease to Abbas on 71, that the partnership was broken. Millman joined Clarke and the pair built another strong partnership, which only ended when Millman decided to copy his skipper’s mode of dismissal and was stumped for 34. A brief appearance from Nichols was cut short by a “doosie” of a leg-break from Burnham’s left spinner. Watkins then came to the party and teed off from the word go, hitting Abbas for three sixes in an over and reverse-sweeping Asif through backward point for four. Both Clarke (62 not out) and Watkins (54 not out) reached classy fifties as the final 12 overs gleaned 100 runs and took Windsor to 283 for 4 off 52 overs.

Burnham immediately went on the attack from ball one, and only a difficult drop at point saw them lose a wicket with an uppish drive from ball one. Nichols though got his revenge in the next two overs, having both openers caught with lively penetrative deliveries. Abbas then took a grip on the game and turned defence into attack in an attempt to drive Burnham towards the target. With his partner Malik being pummelled by Nichols at the other end, Abbas went on all-out attack and the run rate soared to 8 an over, with Windsor struggling to peg Burnham back. Abbas sped past fifty and looked set for a huge score, much to the glee of a rather exuberant Burnham crowd. The introduction of Watkins and Mohindru began to temper the attack though and Windsor when finally removed Malik lbw to Watkins, Abbas bore too great a burden and perished to fantastic reflex caught and bowled by Mohindru. The Windsor spin pair continued to chip away at the Burnham order (both collecting 3 wickets) and only a obdurate innings from Nawaz stood in the way of victory. The introduction of Leg Spinner Kellard saw Nawaz’s resistance finally end and it was left to Nichols to remove the off stump of Burnham’s last man to take Windsor to a deserved victory and a further 25 league points.

With bottom club Falkland visiting The Home Park this Saturday with rumoured batting reinforcements in tow, Windsor will again be continue the winning run. With the ground set up for Lord’s Taverners game the next day, the scene will be set well for a keenly competed game.

2006-07-11T22:50:00.000Z

Windsor fights back to 25 points.
Saturday 8th July

Windsor 188 all out; 51 Overs (Davis 55, Mohindru 47*)
Beaconsfield 169 all out; 45.3 Overs

After a near miss the week before against Bagshot, Windsor travelled Beaconsfield this last weekend looking to gain a second victory of the season. With regular skipper Craig Bird enjoying a weekend off, acting skipper Andy Towse lost the toss and was remarkably asked to bat first.

On a mottled looking deck, Windsor had the worst possible start, losing Riches and Clarke in the first over before a run was scored. With opener Davis watching the carnage from the non-strikers end, Towse joined the fray and the pair began to rebuild the innings until the latter had his middle stump removed by a big in-swinger. With the ball swinging and the bounce inconsistent, Millman and Bullock soon followed and Windsor found themselves 50 for 5 in just the 11th over. Nichols, then came in and began the counter-attack with Davis. One enormous six signalled his intent and he rapidly caught up with his senior partners score. However, one big swing too many saw his demise, but with Mohindru coming in next, the Windsor fight-back continued. The pair continued to build the total and Davis passed fifty with a cut down to backward point. It took a sharp catch by the Beaconsfield keeper to finally remove Davis, but the tail continued to wag and with Mohindru’s guidance, Windsor reached a competitive 188 all out when a much lower total had looked likely. Mohindru finished on a fine 47 not out.

With the new ball in hand; the Beaconsfield innings immediately suffered the wrath of the Nichols and Hill as the latter uprooted the openers middle stump in just the second over. With the ball moving and the bounce unreliable, Nichols took full advantage and his blend of vicious bouncers and challenging swing began to chip at the Beaconsfield top order. Ably supported by Hill, the pair removed the top five batsmen and opened up the lower order much earlier than the home side had hoped for. With the introduction of the Windsor spin twins Mohindru and Kellard, Beaconsfield began to struggle to keep up with the run rate and lost wicket s regularly. With 10 overs to go, the run rate neared six an over and the final three wickets fell quickly. A solid all-round bowling performance saw the wickets shared, with Mohindru picking up four to add to his five the previous week.

After looking certain to lose the game some three hours before, Windsor pulled off a fabulous victory and claimed their first 25-point win of the season. This week sees Windsor travel to local rivals Burnham in what could prove to be a crucial game of the season. With Windsor now in third in the division at the half-way point of the campaign, an away win would provide great momentum for the second half of the season.

2006-07-04T11:47:00.000Z

Bagshot escape from Windsor grasp.

Windsor 234 for 6; 52 Overs (Bird 61, Nicholls 52)
Bagshot 178 for 9; 48 Overs (Mohindru 5 for 46)

After the impressive win the previous week, Windsor returned to home action against Bagshot last weekend, looking for further success. Historically, Windsor versus Bagshot proved to be a very competitive rivalry and this game proved to be no exception.

Windsor skipper Bird won the toss and decided to bat. Davis and Huggins opened the innings and found conditions tough going early on with swing in the air and viewing difficult in the bright conditions. Huggins (6) was first to go, caught at slip and in the crease to a good length ball to the Bagshot opening bowler. Bird then joined Davis and the two continued to develop the Windsor innings. After successive boundaries, Davis (33) managed to find the backward point fielder with an ill-judged cut and Windsor were 2 down for 60. Millman joined Bird and showed good form before seeing his off-stump pegged back with a good out swinger by Maqbool. Bird went on to another fine fifty and in partnership with Bullock, managed to put Windsor into a strong position. Despite losing the skipper for 61, to a misjudged leave, Nichols and Bullock continued to pile on the runs through hard hitting and good running. When Bullock finally fell for 31, debutant Riches supported Nichols well as he passed his first league fifty for Windsor with a mighty array of sixes. Although Nichols fell late on in the pursuit of big runs, Windsor closed on 234 for 6 off their 52 overs, setting Bagshot a tough target.

As with other weeks, early wickets proved hard to come by and the Bagshot reply fairly raced along and passed fifty before losing their first wicket. Nichols removed Maqbool with a ball that cut back that the batsman chose to leave. The introduction of Mohindru would prove to be the turning point. With spin and seam in tandem, Bagshot lost regular wickets as Nichols and Mohindru took turns to take the wickets. Despite a belligerent innings from Bagshot skipper Jeremy Davis, caught well by Bird off a Nichols bouncer, Windsor picked off the scalps to leave the visitors at 150 for 8 with 10 overs to go. Bagshot keeper Davis managed to block out for 6 of these overs, until Kellard stuck with his first Windsor 1stXI wicket. This left 23 balls at the last pair. Despite the best efforts all round, Bagshot held out and scrambled a draw. Mohindru was the pick of the Windsor bowlers with a fine 5 for 46, a great return to form for the veteran spinner.

The 15 points that Windsor took from the game was great reward, but with the knowledge one more wicket would have taken them to second in the table, it was inevitably a disappointment. This coming week, Windsor travel to Beaconsfield.

2006-06-27T12:03:00.000Z

Windsor breeze past Finchampstead

Finchampstead 119 All-Out, 38.4 Overs (Nichols 7 for 43)
Windsor 120 for 1, 22 Overs (Davis 61*, Millman 43*)

A much-changed Windsor 1st team travelled over to Finchampstead on Saturday in search of their first league win of the season. With key batsmen Bird and Towse unavailable, Windsor won the toss and bowled first, looking to attack from the off.

Early wickets were provided by Windsor opening bowlers Nichols and Hill, as both managed to get the Finch openers to falsely hook down fine-leg’s throat. A further wicket from Hill via an in swinging delivery saw Finchampstead reduced to 21 for 3. Then Nichols stepped up a gear and began a very hostile spell of bowling. Combining swing bowling with some vicious bouncers, Nichols began to tear through the middle-order. He removed key man, Gary Loveday, with the ball of season to date, a big in-swinger that tore out the batsman middle-stump. Ably supported by Hill, Cornish and Watkins at the other end, Nichols cleaned up the home sides tail and despite a slight wag, Finchampstead were all out for 119. Nichols finished with 7 for 43 off 20 overs, easily the best bowling performance by a Windsor CC 1st XI bowler in many years. Added to this was Deri Watkins, who picked up three catches at slip off Nichols’ bowling.

After a fine tea, Windsor went out to begin the run chase. With the ball moving in the air and off the seam, the Windsor openers Chorley and Davis set off in a positive mode. The score had reached 28 when Chorley gloved a rising ball to the keeper and Windsor lost their first wicket. With Finch starting to become more vocal, Millman joined Davis and saw out the remains of a tricky over. Both then looked to attack and chase down the low total quickly, with Davis was particularly harsh on any width outside off. As Millman began to time the ball better the run-rate began to escalate. Davis passed his second consecutive fifty in the 19th over with another drive through the offside. Millman then cut loose and hit six fours in twelve balls as Windsor speed towards the target. A final push through the offside by Millman saw Windsor home to victory by 9 wickets. Davis finished on 61 not out and Millman finished with 43 not out.

A tricky target was made to look easy and Windsor will take great confidence from the result going into the next match. With Bird and Towse back, the selectors face a tough time picking the team as Bagshot travel to Home Park this coming Saturday.

2006-06-27T12:01:00.000Z

Too little too late

Windsor 212 for 7 (52 Overs) (Davis 64, Chorley 47)
Chiswick & Latymer 213 for 5 (44.2 Overs) (Williams 76*, Vanderburg 64)

After running out of gas on the previous weeks run chase, Windsor won the toss and chose to bat on what looked to be another good Home Park wicket.

With a fair amount of humidity in the air, the Chiswick bowlers found exaggerated movement in the form of swing and seam with the new ball. Windsor found themselves 18 for 2, after losing Towse lbw to leg cutter and Millman, caught and bowled to one the straightened. This brought Davis to the crease to join Bird and together they began to rebuild the innings. The regular openers, separated due to unforeseen logistics problem, found the going tough with the new ball still moving, but were very severe on anything over-pitched and punished accordingly. Bird unfortunately paid the price for one drive too many and holed out at mid-off for 18. Chorley then joined Davis and together they set about forging a partnership. Davis passed fifty for the first time this season with a characteristic cover drive. However, a sharp caught and bowled saw avis depart for 64, bringing Watkins to the crease at 122 for 4. A mix-up between Chorley and Watkins, saw the former run-out for 47, three short of a deserved half-century. Some lusty blows from Watkins, along with the precise approach of Mohindru, saw Windsor pass 200 and set Chiswick a competitive 212 to chase.

Unfortunately for Windsor, the Chiswick openers found conditions a lot easier than were experienced earlier in the day and their chase for the target started with aplomb. A dropped chance at slip exacerbated Windsor’s woes as they struggled to break through in easier, less humid batting conditions. Nichols and Cornish bowled well and passed the edge on numerous occasions without any joy. Both Chiswick openers settled into their innings and passed 50. It was the introduction of Watkins that finally broke the partnership, as Vanderburg was caught and bowled for 64. Whilst never looking comfortable, left-hander Freidrich continued the assault as Chiswick looked to be coasting to victory. Yet, a late flurry of wickets saw both he and the two century makers from the previous week, the Bhatia brothers, fall cheaply and a short-lived panic set the Chiswick dressing room. Sadly for the home side, it was a case of too little, too late and Chiswick passed the score with over 3 overs remaining, Windsor losing by 5 wickets. In the end, the target was just not challenging enough. Windsor were awarded 12 points for the day.

This week, Windsor travel to Finchampstead to play their second team. With a great batting deck expected, pressure is on to score big.

2006-06-13T22:30:00.000Z

Windsor trip-up in heat of run chase.

Basingstoke 2nd XI 243 all out, 48.1 overs (Rouse 83, Sankachan 45)
Windsor 1st XI 213 for 8, 51 overs (Bird 59, Nicholls 40)

With all eyes elsewhere on the 2pm kick-off for England, Windsor travelled to Basingstoke for their TVL Division 2A fixture with an aim to capitalise on the distraction. Losing the toss, Windsor were (unsurprisingly) asked to bowl first and set about the task with the opposition by the TV.

Despite some close shaves in the first 12 overs, Windsor failed to make a breakthrough with the new ball, with opening bowlers Nicholls and Cornish beating the bat regularly. The only cheer came from the local neighbourhood when England scored. However, the introduction of Alex Hill changed the course of proceedings and wickets either side of drinks, saw the home side 68 for 2 after 17 overs. Nicholls then upped his pace and via fine slip catch by Watkins and a caught behind from Baumgartner, Basingstoke were suddenly four down. Hill then got the fifth as the young number six flashed outside off to give Baumgartner his second catch. That only brought young Rouse to the crease and with Sankachan, they set about rebuilding the innings. With the introduction of spinners Watkins and Mohindru, the Basingstoke pair looked to get after anything loose and peppered the leg-side boundaries. Only a fine catch by Millman broke the partnership, by which time Basingstoke had reached 180 for 6 and had overs left to build a big total. Rouse completed a deserved fifty, but the wheels seemed to come off as they looked to push past 250. With one final calamitous run out in the 49th over, the Basingstoke innings closed at 243 of 49.1 overs.

In hot conditions, Windsor set about the run chase with vigour, as openers Bird and Davis looked to go after anything loose. The wicket, now resembling the nearby M3, was playing well and not even the constant changing Basingstoke attack could abate the flow of runs. Bird passed fifty for the third time in five innings with a huge six over long on and through the side window of a local Ford Focus. The shattered glass though was only a cruel indication of the carnage that followed. After reaching the 100 partnership, Bird miss-timed his advance down the wicket and was duly stumped for 59. Davis soon followed after miscuing an audacious drive and Windsor we suddenly 104 for 2, but many overs left looked set for the chase. Unfortunately, the calamitous run-out of Millman saw the beginning of a full-scale collapse, with Windsor suddenly tumbling to 146 for 6. Nicholls set about rebuilding the innings with Towse and the pair put on fifty, but as the run-rate climbed the task got more the difficult. Towse was then unluckily adjudge LBW, bring Hill to the crease to try to bludgeon the runs. Despite valiant efforts by both men and some aggressive fields buy the home skipper, Windsor just couldn’t quite manage the feat and Nicholls was stranded on 40 not out as the inning closed at 213 for 8 off 51 overs, 31 runs short of the target.

A general feeling of disappoint followed the game, as once again Windsor did not find the killer punch to pull off the victory. Whilst the initial platform was set, no one went on to make that much needed big score to help with the run chase, but in turn some of the modes of dismissal we also not great. This coming weekend, Windsor have the task of facing Chiswick and Latymer, fresh on the back of racking up 400 the previous week. This could prove to be a spectacle of a game.

2006-06-08T11:23:00.000Z

Alldiss and George put Windsor to the sword.

Windsor 234 for 8 52 overs (Bird 86, Dick 3 for 68)
Datchet 235 for 2 42 overs (Alldiss 101, George 88*)

Playing their first league game of the season that has not been affected by rain, Windsor won the toss and elected to bat on a very hard and dry looking track. Bird and Davis started well and took the attack to the Datchet bowlers, with both batsmen playing commanding shots of the back and front foot, before Davis chipped an easy catch to mid wicket to be dismissed for 36. In form Andy Towse and Bird continued to play their shots before Bird was adjudged lbw for 86, trying to drive the accurate spin of Dick. Windsor then lost wickets and momentum due to poor shot selection and suicidal running between the wickets. However, the lower order once again stood up to be counted and Windsor managed to reach 234-8, which after being 162-4 was disappointing and 30 runs short of what they had hoped. James Dick was the pick of the Datchet bowlers, with a well-deserved 3-68.

Windsor opted to open with spin and seam and took the old ball, hoping that veteran spinner Mohindru would be able to get some assistance from the wicket. This initial pairing worked well, and Datchet found themselves on 62-1 after 18 overs with the pressure mounting. Mirza's leg spin was then brought into the attack; where upon the turning point of the match occurred. Opening batsmen George was missed twice in one over due to a dropped catch and missed run out. Windsor feels that this would have greatly changed the game, as this would have exposed the Datchet middle order, which Windsor backed themselves to go through. However, both George and Alldiss made Windsor pay for these mistakes, with Alldiss playing one of the best knocks seen at the home park for a few seasons. Windsor had no answers to the Datchet skipper who treated all bowlers with disdain and seem able to smash boundaries at will. Alldiss, who could easily play at a much higher standard, did not give a single chance during his innings and went on to smash a faultless 101, before playing-on to the part time spin of Towse. George continued to stand firm and saw the Datchet innings home to finish unbeaten on 88. Although Windsor suffered a sound beating, Datchet only made 9 more points than them in this game, which again highlights the inadequacies of the league points system.

This week, a changed Windsor side travel to Basingstoke, with former skipper Des Watkins and new signing Saj Shafi coming into the side. However, Windsor skipper, Warren Griffiths, will be out for some time due to a stress fracture of the lower back. Vice Captain, Craig Bird, takes over in his place

2006-05-23T12:14:00.000Z

Windsor come close as Falkland drop the shutters

Windsor 226 for 7; 49 Overs (Bird 96, Towse 51)
Falkland 178 for 8; 49 Overs

With the clouds finally parting for the first time in days, Windsor 1’s visited Falkland looking to continue on what was a good start to the league season the week before. Acting captain Craig Bird won the toss and chose to bat first and take advantage of the wet conditions and potentially a wet ball.

Windsor openers Bird and Davis took advantage of the conditions as they got the innings of to a quick start. On a fine batting surface, both were severe on anything short, with the latter hooking a six on to the roof of the opening bowler’s car. A four from Bird brought up the fifty opening stand, a feat not achieved for some time by a Windsor pair. As the rain began to cease the ball dried and started to see some movement off the pitch. A rather ambitious shot from Davis (26) saw his demise; soon followed by Clarke two balls later, falling to an inswinging yorker.

This brought Towse to the crease, who immediately continued his fine form, building a huge partnership with Bird who soon past fifty. The scoring rate continued to rise as Bird in particular took advantage of the short boundary, swatting some poor leg side deliveries for six. Shortly after Towse reached his fifty, a misplaced moment of bravado from Bird saw him miss out on a deserved century as he mistimed his charge down the track and was duly stumped for 96. Towse followed soon after, dismissed via a fine direct-hit run out for 51.

For the second week in a row, the final overs saw a flurry of wickets as Windsor tried to gain as high a total as possible. Upon reaching 226, Bird declared the innings early to allow the chance to use 49 overs to maximise the opportunity to bowl Falkland out and gain maximum points.

After tea, Windsor chose to take the old ball and looked to expose the Falkland top order with the spin of Mohindru and reverse swing of Cornish. Both bowled very well, but it was Cornish who made the early breakthrough and took the first wicket. Falkland looked to bat aggressively early on, but the introduction of Nicholls and Edge, along with the new ball, soon saw two quick wickets peg them back. Some lusty blows from Baig, continued the Falkland assault, but upon his departure to Nicholls the scoring rate soon slowed. As the Falkland tried to attack, they continued to lose more wickets with Nicholls taking 4 wickets in the process. At 7 down and 12 overs to go, Falkland quite literally shut up shop and decided to bat out for a draw. The introduction of Mirza and return of Mohindru saw spin at both ends and despite incredibly attacking fields, Falkland continued to block out and rare attacking shots were greeted with ironic cheers.

Close calls continued to come and go, but the final ball of the innings saw Mirza claim a deserved wicket and Falkland lose their eighth wicket, giving Windsor an extra bonus point whilst claiming a winning draw. For the second week in a row Windsor ended with 14 points and perch 4th in TVL division 2A. What is encouraging is that all five bowlers used took a wicket, demonstrating the good balance in the side this year.

2006-05-16T12:05:00.000Z

Windsor 1st XI vs. Burnham 2nd XI (TVL Division 2A)
Saturday 13th May:

Windsor 202 for 9 52 Overs (A Towse 67, A Nazir 5-41)
Burnham 2’s 194 for 8 48 Overs (W Nicholls 5-72)

With four weeks of pre-season friendlies and netting behind them, Windsor 1st XI played there first game in Thames Valley League Division 2A this past Saturday. It always promised to be a stern test against local rivals Burnham and the game proved to live up to it’s billing.

Upon winning the toss, Windsor captain Warren Griffiths chose to bat first. Openers Craig Bird and Brian Davis faced a difficult opening burst, with the ball swinging and seaming in the overcast conditions. Indeed Bird’s forward defensive shot was beaten by a huge leg-cutter from Nazir; a feat repeated two overs later on Windsor No.3 Clarke. Towse then joined Davis, who together began to sow the seeds of recovery. Unfortunately, a smart catch a square-leg saw Davis depart for 29 and it was left to Millman and Towse to further the Windsor cause. This they did magnificently, as they began to build a strong partnership that put Windsor on top. Millman finally fell for a fine 48. Towse continued on with mini partnerships with Cornish and Mirza taking him to a well-deserved fifty. When he finally fell for 67, Windsor was still 30 runs from the desired 200 and maximum batting points. Lusty blows from Mirza and Baumgartner helped the cause and, despite some interesting running between the wickets, Windsor closed their innings on 202 for 9 with Burnham’s Nazir finishing with a fine 5 for 41.

Burnham’s reply almost immediately hit rocky ground, as Windsor’s new overseas all-rounder Wes Nicholls removing both openers in successive overs with some fine bowling. Ably supported by Cornish, Windsor was at this point well on top. Unfortunately, two relatively similar dropped chances off the Burnham numbers 3 and 4 proved costly, as despite being heavily on top, Windsor could not get the desired breakthrough. It was the introduction of Mirza, bowling in tandem with Griffiths that broke the partnership. But with the rain starting to fall more heavily, the ground carried more surface water and meant the ball would need to be dried after every delivery. Not only did this slow the game, but also saw the ball become soft and difficult to grip, which effectively took away the ability to swing, seam or even spin the ball. By this time however, Burnham were way behind the run rate and had to really begin to cut loose. The re-introduction of Nicholls and Mohindru saw wickets fall regularly, with the latter picking up the key wicket of Chaudrey trapped lbw. A fine run-out by Mirza, coupled with Nicholls achieving his five wicket haul would see Burnham losing wickets at a regular pace, despite more than achieving the run rate required to win. Further dropped catches saw the game reach a dramatic final over with 14 runs to win. Despite, one lusty blow, Mohindru managed to rain the Burnham 9th wicket partnership back and Burnham were unable to reach the target of 203 to win. Windsor were awarded the winning draw and took 14 points from the game, Burnham would leave Home Park with just 8 points.

This coming Saturday, Windsor 1st’s play their first away fixture of the season as they travel over to Falkland. This will be the first visit to this picturesque ground for many years and promises to be a good match.

2006-04-26T14:09:00.000Z

Windsor 1st XI vs. Egham 1st XI

Windsor 206 for 6 (Millman 50)
Egham 207 for 6

Windsor 1st XI began their 2006 campaign with a three wicket loss to an experienced Egham side on Saturday. Windsor won the toss and batted first on what turned out to be a good true wicket, considering the time of the year. Windsor didn't get off to the best of starts, as the dangerous Bird mistimed a cut to point in just the second over. However, this brought the left-handed Davis to the crease, who along with Huggins, began to take the attack to the Egham seamers. Both batsman rattled along producing some superb cover drives and cuts before Davis played one big shot too many and pulled a short ball straight into the hands of square leg. Clarke joined Huggins and carried on where Davis had left off, playing some commanding shots off the front foot. This prompted Egham to ring the changes, and skipper Whatmore brought on spin from both ends. This slowed Windsor's progress somewhat, as both spinners bowled with good lines and gained some turn. The left arm spinner was particularly impressive and caused Windsor plenty of trouble with his swinging arm ball. Windsor tried to up the run rate against the spinners and this resulted in Windsor regularly losing wickets. However, all-rounders Millman and Cornish sensibly played themselves in and then opened up to great result. Millman targeted the short boundary, and this paid off, with one Egham bowler being smashed for 20 runs off four consecutive balls. Windsor eventually passed the 200 mark, for 6 wickets down, which led to the declaration.

Windsor looked to make early inroads into a strong batting line up with Griffiths and Cornish taking the new ball. Both bowlers bowled some testing deliveries but the Egham batsman defended the good balls and put away the bad. Cornish, who bowled some very good lines, made the initial breakthrough, having skipper Whatmore smartly caught at first slip by Clarke. Egham carried on chasing down the target and although Windsor rotated their bowlers, they could not break a stubborn second wicket partnership. However, Hill forced Hunt to play back to a full ball and won an LBW. Mark Lines, who suffered some initial punishment, came back, to bowl superbly with his left arm spinners and bowled Hamilton, who was easily their best batsman, round his legs. Griffiths and Cornish also came back on to claim two wickets each, but the Egham batsman held their nerve to pass the total with just one over left and three wickets to spare. This was a very encouraging performance for Windsor against a strong and sporting Egham side.

2005-08-03T12:43:00.000Z

Windsor 1st XI vs. Thatcham Town 1st XI

Windsor travelled to Thatcham looking to gain max points to help them move out of the relegation zone.

After winning the toss and choosing to bat, Windsor didn’t get off the best of starts loosing 4 quick wickets. Michael Gould and Stuart Millman started a fight back with some lovely shots being played by both players and things looked better for Windsor. Unfortunately Gould fell, bringing Watkins to the crease, who started in his normal cavalier style. Millman was then next to fall bringing Thompson to the crease, Thompson and Watkins kept the tempo up with Watkins smashing anything loose, with Thompson accumulating, Watkins then fell for a good 30 Thompson then fell to a run out with sparked the collapse Windsor eventually all out for 115.

Windsor knew this would never be enough, but there was a bit in the wicket and if Windsor got early wickets it would be game on.

Unfortunately Thatcham had other ideas with there overseas star coming at the bowling from ball one, he reached 50 in no time, but Windsor had dropped him three times, the situation looked poor for Windsor who were starting at a 10 wicket defeat, with 10 runs to win Mohindru bowled Etteridge, then granger had Ederwiera caught behind, another wicket fell 2 balls later, after another tight over from Mohindru, granger took another wicket. Windsor’s fight back was short lived, after a rain break Thatcham wasted no time in finishing the game.

Windsor will need to get maximum points from their remaining games to ensure they can stay up.

2005-07-19T12:29:00.001Z

Windsor Vs Harefield 16/07/05

Harefield 275 for 1 (McLeod 122*, Whatham 123, 55 Overs)
Windsor 240 for 6 (Gould 84*, 55 Overs)

Last Saturday, Windsor travelled to inform Harefield. Having taken some confidence from their draw last week against Wokingham, Windsor won the toss and decided to put Harefield into bat on what looked like a very good track. It proved to be very good, and with Windsor’s bowlers struggling, Harefield's openers took control, both making excellent centuries in quick time. Harefield kept batting and set 275 to win of 55 overs, skipper Thompson thought this was poor decision by Harefield, “they should have declared on 240, they obviously they haven’t read our recent scores”

Windsor started off the chase well, but due to accurate bowling only just kept up with the run rate (attacking fields were also set which helped the run rate). Windsor kept losing wickets the chase down of the 275 looked a long way off. Mike Gould batted very well with Charters, when he fell Thompson came to the crease immediately attacking the spin bowling, taking 14 runs from 7 balls. Various comments had come from the Harefield team about Windsor not going for the runs but they took the spinner off after the runs began to flow and reverted to a negative all seam attack. Windsor closed on 240 for 6 after 55 overs with both Gould (82) and Thompson on (27) undefeated at the end.

Harefield’s skipper was particularly distressed at Windsor for not going for the 275. Skipper Thompson responded, “Whilst I understand where he is coming from, he must understand that 275 was massive and they had given us 80 runs by setting attacking fields. In the last 10 overs, as soon as we attacked the spinners, he took him off and bowled a negative line with seamers. Their over seas bowler bowled 4 deliveries down the leg side in one over, how can we score off them? Furthermore, why wouldn’t they declare on 240 with 60 overs to bowl us out, they are 2nd top and we are bottom we have had a poor season with the bat, did they really think we would get 275? Most of the team and the club took a lot from the draw, we have been beaten very heavily at times this year, it’s very nice not to lose and get some players back into form”

“In my personal opinion I would like to a change in the league format closer to the international format, of 50 overs, fielding restrictions and limits on bowlers, it would have meant yesterdays game would have had fairer result, I still believe we would be at the lower end of the table but it would improve the cricket and standard”

2005-07-01T13:16:00.000Z

Windsor Vs Chesham

Windsor 109-9 (52 Overs)
Chesham 110-4 (34 Overs)

Windsor entered this match knowing they needed to get as many points as possible due a poor display last week.

Unfortunately the toss was critical, water had got onto the wicket due to the storms on Friday, and this with the overcast conditions would not make batting easy. Luck went Cheshams way and Windsor were asked to bat.

Thompson opened with Mahmud Mirza, who got there heads down taking the score to 30 without loss, these were extremely hard earned runs as the bowling was accurate and ball was swinging and seaming almost every delivery. Unfortunately Mirza eventually succumbed, playing a rash shot and was caught behind. Clarke soon followed LBW, which brought Gould to the crease, a very tight run caused the demise of Gould, Towse and Thompson set about rebuilding the innings, and were steadily moving the score along until Thompson was trapped LBW for 35, a mini collapse ensued including the run out of Towse, Raul Mohindru batted well again helping Windsor to a under par score of 109-9.

Windsor new that early wickets would make the game interesting, Granger and Griffiths both struck early, and it was game on, Kenyan super star Modi came to the crease and looked suspect against the quick’s, after edging his way to 19 Raul Mohindru had him caught behind, then a sharp bit of cricket from keeper Baumgartner had there number 4 run out. But luck didn’t go Windsor’s way. and with 4 dropped catches not helping, Chesham got to the target off 34 overs.

Skipper Thompson was again concerned at the team’s points tally, but more pleased than the previous week as Windsor showed more fight.