What was your earliest High Roding Memory?
It’s got to be Terry Owers running summer holiday coaching camps. That was my first involvement with the club. That’s probably 20 years ago now!
What was the best bit of sledging you’ve ever heard on a cricket field?
“I wouldn’t want to cross a road with you” – Little Baddow player to Mike Richardson after he burgled a quick single.
Otherwise I would have said Joel Tadman’s send-off to a Fives & Heronians player in an U15s game. Not something I can repeat on here though. Needless to say Joel was very upset at having been hit for a few 6s already that day.
What has been the funniest moment whilst playing for High Roding?
Two contenders (both involving Sarge):
Kimbolton away in the national village last 16. Some of the opposition supporters have been drinking and barbecuing all day. One of the “ladies” has had a bit too much to drink and decides what the afternoon needs is a streaker. As she prances across the outfield past Sarge he says to her “They’re the best couple of bouncers I’ve seen all day”.
Sarge bowling away at Bentley. He had been hit for 20+ already in the over and he turned to the umpire to collect his cap thinking it was the end of the over. “I’m sorry Sarge, there’s one ball to come”. As he bowled the final ball he turned back again to collect his cap, not even watching as One Shot Damo thumped another about 30yards clear of the hedge on the short boundary.
What would you say your best performance was for High Roding?
See answer to Q6.
If I have to pick an actual cricketing performance, 178* in a 20 over game springs to mind. It’s always nice to score a ton, but it’s even better to do it against your local rivals. 117 away at Aythorpe in the league is the one I’m most proud of, especially as it came the day after the 6 a side / karaoke at the end of cricket week. I had woken up that morning on the floor of our changing room covered in kit and beer (thanks to Andy Heywood and his cricket week sidekick Nick Dawson).
What are your predictions for this season?
Team – Honestly I think we’ll have a solid mid table season. We’ve got a few tricky fixtures early season though so it might take a while for us to settle in.
Personally – I’m aiming for 1000+ runs in all HR cricket.
What is your song of choice at the 6 a side karaoke?
Will Young – Evergreen. Usually down on one knee holding Troy’s girlfriend’s hand and gazing lovingly into her eyes (sorry Troy).
Worst wicket you’ve ever played on in the T-Rippon?
Chignal away is horrendous! 130 batting first on a dry day is a good score.
Who is the best Holdgate?
Tez. By a mile. She’s the unsung hero(ine).
Favourite HR player?
Mark Heywood. He hits the ball harder than anyone I’ve ever seen. He nearly took my head off when I was umpiring once. Fortunately the bowler stuck his hand in the way and broke his thumb, otherwise it was hitting me square in the face.
Favourite shot?
Back over a fast bowlers head. I’ve never bowled fast, but it must be so demoralising for them!
Best ground you’ve played at in cricket?
The County Ground – Chelmsford. Ben Tadman landed one on the roof of the pavilion (3 floors up).
Describe your cricketing personality in 3 words.
Competitive, silly and fun… an odd mix.