Eltham CC

Match Report

Match report Eltham CC Vs Bexley Jets CC

The annual game in honour of Jim Hill this year took the form of a single-wicket competition devised in typical school-teacher fashion by Pete Fisher. I'm glad Pete knew what was going on, because some of the non-teachers in attendance didn't have a clue!

For those that don't know Jim, he is the ex-Captain of both the Eltham and JETS teams. When he had a riding accident which has left him fighting a very long road to recovery, both teams decided it would be fitting to play each other in an annual game to encompass "the spirit of Jim". Lateness and farcical running are generally the norm in this fixture, which is, we're sure, the way Jim would like it.

About 15 people made it to Bexley Grammar School, with a few apologies also received from those that would have liked to have made it. Those that were there were greeted by the sight of Matt Bulpitt removing various meat products from the back seat of his car. "Bought them this morning", said Matthew. "They've been gently cooking in the car since then. Where's the barbie, Ray?" A couple of the wives in attendance decided there and then that a trip to McDonalds might be necessary...

Peter "I'm not a pom" Swain was coerced into taking control of doing the actual barbecuing on account of not being a pom, and produced kebabs, sausages, burgers and other tasty treats with which to slow down the would-be cricketers. Matthew had thoughtfully also provided beers, and the combination of food and alcoholic beverages was enough to ensure that quick singles would not be the order of the day.

A succession of Bevan arrivals and departures had most people confused, but eventually it was Matt rather than Jason who stayed for the cricket (we think they both managed a fine meal courtesy of the Not-So-Little Chef). The single wicket competition took place and (although no scoring was really done) Peter Swain took top honours, hitting a succession of huge sixes, at least one of which almost hit a gardener in a local house - thankfully he threw the ball back. Matt Bulpitt tried to match Pete's big hitting, and almost put his back out. Colin Wouldham displayed some marvellous forward defensives and will not be required for any Twenty Twenty games in the forseeable future.

Neil Cowland was unable to conjure up any sixes this year, modestly blaming the non-appearance of his twin brother who apparently stands in for him when the bowling gets tough!

Anything else to report? Hmmm don't think so. Suffice to say that the evening was enjoyed by all. We hope to see more people at next year's fixture (we'll give a bit more notice!), and the barbie part seemed a big success so we'll keep that going too.

Finally - and as we said on the night itself - here's to Jim. Cheers all.

Reporting: Colin Wouldham