2011
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All the news from 2010 can now be found here. 

2011

Radio Interview

Collingbourne Cricket Club were the subject of the 'Join Our Club' piece on BBC Radio Wiltshire during the afternoon of 3rd November. John Baxter was interviewed live on air. To hear the interview click here.

Scroll down the page to read how the year has unfolded

Clash of the Titans

Sun. Feb. 27th: Collingbourne 'A' batted first amassing 130 for 3 thanks largely to 25s from Graham Chandler and Bertie Rogers ably supported by John Candler, John Aitken and Kris Walbridge. Collingbourne 'B' fielded well taking 2 catches off the bowling of Tom Allott who was well supported by Matt Elder and Owen Sheppard, but again too many extras were given.

In reply Collingbourne 'A' made the better start as John Candler took the wickets of Pete Reynolds and Robin Ball (out to a brilliant reaction catch by Kris Walbridge) in the first over of the innings. Owen Sheppard and Tom Allott attempted to rebuild scoring some nice sixes and taking 13 runs off a couple of overs. The three pronged bowling attack of Tom Pike, Candler and Aitken continued to threaten as Allott went in the 6th over. Sheppard retired soon after but was back on the field in no time as Archie Scott became Candler's 3rd victim of the game. Sheppard and Elder continued aggressively but the score was always beyond them as Collingbourne 'B' required 36 from the last over to win. John Aitken tried to help the cause by giving the B-team 3 extras in the final over but Sheppard finally fell on 40 leaving Elder to see out the remaining overs of the game ending the B-team innings on 103 for 5. A good win for Collingbourne 'A' and a brave effort by Collingbourne 'B'.

The arrangements for the annual Devon Tour are already underway. Deposits should be with Dave Cummings by Saturday 26th March.

Indoor League

The indoor league has only just got back underway after the break for Christmas and the bad weather. The B-team played Burbage B. Burbage made 126 for 4 of which Archie Scott took all 4 wickets including a 4 wicket maiden thanks to support in the field with catches by Pete Reynolds and Dan Mercer.
In reply Collingbourne scored 106 for 5 with Pete Reynolds and Owen Sheppard both scoring over 25 and Rob Ball and Matt Elder recording their highest indoor scores.This means Collingbourne B still remain near the bottom of the table having lost every game so far whilst Collingbourne A are about mid-table with 4 wins and 4 defeats.

Indoor league Round Up

Sun. Feb. 6th: Collingbourne A played Burbage A in the quarter final of the Savernake indoor cup. With Burbage scoring 120 Collingbourne in reply found themselves needing 13 from the last over to win with Graham Chandler and Bertie Rogers at the crease. But, with Graham hitting a 6 from a no-ball on the first ball of the over the task was halved as Collingbourne reached their target with 2 balls to spare. Collingbourne are through to the Semi-final of the cup being played at the end of the indoor season on the 3rd April.
Collingbourne B didn’t fair as well unfortunately as they faced Burbage B for the 2nd time in as many weeks. Collingbourne were put in to bat and only amassed a score of 75 for 5 from their 10 overs with Owen Sheppard top scoring with 18. In reply Burbage made light work of the target reaching it in 6.2 overs but not before Matt Elder could claim his first wicket for the club caught by Sheppard on the back wall. With Collingbourne B out of the cup they will be concentrating on getting that first elusive win and staying off the bottom of the table.
Currently in the league Collingbourne A are 5th from 9 teams and Collingbourne B bottom but only 3 points behind Aldbourne in 8th.

Sun. Feb. 13th: 'A'-team played Burbage 'A' and found themselves 26 for 3. A recovery through John Candler, Graham Chandler and Owen Sheppard took the 'A'-team to 85 all out with 9.1 overs gone. In reply Collingbourne did the same and had Burbage 'A' 36 for 4 wkts from 4 overs thanks to some good run outs and John Candler's bowling. However, Burbage fought a good rear guard and reached the required total with 1 ball to go still for the loss of 4 wkts.

The 'B'-team faired little better against Bedwyn 'B' as Bedwyn scored 127 for 4. Collingbourne had put on one of their best fielding and bowling performances with 3 good run outs and a wkt for Sheppard. Unfortunately with the bat they struggled and lost important early wickets but found good performances from the lower order. No. 3 Kris Walbridge batted brilliantly and was ably supported at the end of the innings by Dan Mercer as the two helped Collingbourne to 89 before Kris as last man was bowled with 5 balls to go. Yet another brave effort for the B-team as they continue to search for their first win of the season.

Sun. Feb. 20th : Collingbourne 'A' played Great Bedwyn 'B' in a tight relaxed affair. Collingbourne fielded first and although Bedwyn managed to retire four batsmen and only lose 2 wickets Collingbourne did manage to keep them to 120 thanks to tight bowling from John Candler, John Aitken and Bertie Rogers. In reply Collingbourne started well with Karl Gingell showing good aggression before being bowled. Graham Chandler went on to hit 25 and retire but found himself back in with Bertie Rogers needing 11 of the last over to win after some cameo batting from Kris Walbridge, Candler and Aitken. Needing just 4 off 3 balls Chandler was caught leaving Rogers as the last man. He unfortunately was run out on the penultimate ball with 3 runs still required. An unfortunate loss for the 'A'-team who will be looking to make amends next week.

Collingbourne 'B' played fellow strugglers Aldbourne in a must win game to avoid last place in the league. Collingbourne fielded first and put on what was arguably their best performance of the indoor season by reducing Aldbourne to 95 for 5 from their 10 overs. Owen Sheppard and Archie Scott were the pick of the bowlers both picking up a wicket each ably assisted by some good catching and fielding from by the team but especially wicket keeper Robin Ball. Unfortunately it was to be with the bat once again that Collingbourne 'B' let themselves down and after scoring 34 from the first 3 overs they quickly found themselves 50 for 5 from 7 overs. Archie Scott however played an aggressive yet sensible last man stand innings and managed to take Collingbourne's score to 75 before the 10 overs were up. With only 4 games to go it is difficult to see where the B-team will get their first win from and they may have to settle for last place this season. However, Collingbourne 'A' are the next opponents and the 'B'-team will be looking to impress.

Dope Test

The Wiltshire League are to introduce random dope testing for all divisions. This is to try and prevent a rise in the use of performance enhancing drugs. If you are concerned at all about any medication you are using click here for a full list of banned substances.

Indoor Nets

The club in action at The Wellington Academy (click on the pictures to get a full size image)

The new season is rapidly approaching and Collingbourne Cricket Club welcomes all new players. Wellington Academy Sports Centre on Sunday mornings commenced 27th March and will continue until 17 April. The first hour between 9.30 and 10.30 am will be dedicated to young players between the ages of 8-16 (£1 per session) and the second hour between 10.30 and 12 will be dedicated to senior players – minimum age 13. New players most welcome. There will be a charge of £2.00 per hour for young players and £3.00 per hour for seniors. Out door nets will begin on Thursdays from 28th April at 6pm.

Unleash the Beast

An opening partnership of exactly 100 between Graham Chandler and John Baxter laid the foundation for a score of 233-6 against local rival Burbage on Sunday. Tim Nichols, in his first game as Sunday captain had no hesitation in batting first and was well rewarded. Owen Sheppard came in when Chandler was dismissed for 51 and he soon began to dominate the bowling reaching 75 including one very big hit for six (pictured). Jon Candler then tore into the Burbage batting and they were soon our of the game at just 25-4. Burbage finally reached 180 all out to set the season on its way. League games are now just a fortnight away. Please make sure you contact all the captains with your availability.

Positive Start to the Season Continues

   The good start to the season continued with two wins over the Easter weekend. First Farley were well beaten then a trip to Dinton produced a game in which both innings were almost identical. Both sides go away to steady starts and then accelerated in the later stages. Dinton making 80 runs in the final 6 overs to end on 213. In reply Tom Pike and John Baxter posted 81 for the first wicket but it was Owen Sheppard and Jon Candler who really stepped on the gas to see Collingbourne home in the final over. Their partnership included and all-run 5, thanks to some sloppy Dinton backing up.

Unbeaten Record Ended. Billy Goes Nap

The unbeaten record ended in ignominious fashion at Spye Park. The game was played in a strong blustery breeze all day and was marred by errors being made in the score books during both innings. Spye Park batted first and got off to a flying start. John Baxter bowled his 8 overs for just 12 runs but didn't claim a wicket. Instead it was Mark Brett who made the first break through. However, it was the younger Brett, Billy, who stole the honours with his first ever five wicket haul in men's cricket. The youngster cleaning up the end of the Spye innings to leave them on 187. In reply Tim Nichols went early but a stand of over 100 between Pete Reynolds and Graham Chandler seemed to have put Collingbourne in control until they fell and there was a collapse of cataclysmic proportions and sadly Collingborune folded rather tamely for a total about 25 runs short.

1st XI Go Down. Rain Spoils Good Game for 2nds

7th May: In their opening game of Division 2 of the Wiltshire League 2011 season, Collingbourne Cricket Club's 1^st team, sponsored by The Barleycorn Inn, played host to Lacock CC. In the absence of 1^st team Captain Geoff Rogers, Vice-Captain Tom Pike won the toss and elected to field first on a good yet slightly damp track with rain interruptions a possibility throughout the day. Lacock made a good start with a steady opening partnership of 70 from 21 overs between Captain Steve Copland and Nick Rose (24). Collingbourne struggled to make in roads into the Lacock batting line up as number 3 Pete Steans (43) assisted his Captain in taking the score to 150 for 1 from 35 overs. The introduction of Captain Pike made the difference accounting for Captain Copland for an excellent 88 before Ben Doherty returned to the bowling attack with much success. Doherty had already accounted for opener Rose and proceeded to gather himself 5 wickets with some good accurate bowling. A couple of run outs late on meant that Collingbourne had managed to remove 9 of the Lacock batsmen before their 45 overs were up. Unfortunately for them Lacock had put on a very competitive 216 making Collingbourne's task even harder. Doherty was the pick of the bowlers with figures of 5 wickets for 27 runs from 9 overs. In response Collingbourne started well with openers Graham Chandler and Jonathan Cummings making an aggressive start taking the score to 48 from 9 overs. When Cummings was dismissed for 27 Chandler and Paul Campling (14) continued the good work before Chandler was caught for 34 with the score on 73 for 2 from 19 overs. Unfortunately Collingbourne then suffered a middle order collapse as Sanchez and Rawlings bowled a progressively good line and length which the Collingbourne batsmen struggled to deal with. Collingbourne fell from 73 for 2 in the 19^th over to 91 for 7 in the 23^rd over. Thankfully for Collingbourne the tail wagged as new 1^st team players John Candler and Owen Dowsett shared a 57 run partnership. Candler scored a personal best of 40 including 2 beautifully lampooned 6’s before he was brilliantly caught by Sanchez going for a 3^rd. Dowsett then set about setting another partnership this time with number 11 bat Doherty as the 2 put on 43 for the last wicket before Doherty was run out on the last ball of the innings with the score on 199. Dowsett finished not out on 33 and Doherty with 30. Lacock bowlers Sanchez (4 for 41) and Rawlings (3 for 44) were the pick of the bowlers as Lacock got their season off to a winning start. Collingbourne were not too disappointed as many positives came out of the game so early in the season.

The rains came at Warminster to spoil what might have been an interesting game for the seconds. Collingbourne had been rescued from a disastrous start by Jack King and Archie Scott. Together they put on 59 after coming together when the score was only 19-4. Collingbourne ended up at 109 all out. In reply Warminster had reached 59-4 as the rain came. Jim Nicholson had claimed two wickets, John Baxter one and there was a dramatic direct hit from Billy Brett to claim the fourth. Warminster were peeved that Collingbourne wouldn't take the field after the first downpour but then more heavy rain came and brought an end to the proceedings any way.

Steamer Ton in Vain. 2nd Beat Mildenhall

May 14th: The Collingbourne 1st XII travelled to Bath Civil Service for their second game in Wilts Division 2. Collingbourne lost the toss and were asked to bowl on what looked like a fabulous batting track. Bath Civil service started shakily with opening batsmen Carlin dropped twice before he reached double figures. This proved costly as Carlin went on to score 81 contributing to a rapid start for Service which saw them reach 158 for 1 at the half way point of their innings. The introduction of Owen Sheppard (3-26) slowed down the scoring but despite good support in the field Service were still able to reach a very healthy 284-7 after 45 Overs. Collingbourne began knowing that a quick start was essential if the large target was to be chased down. Runs did come in the first few overs, unfortunately so too did wickets. After 8 overs Collingbourne had amassed 26 for the loss of two wickets. Enter Owen Sheppard who shared a 100 run partnership with Graham Chandler (49) to take the score to 140-3 after 26 overs giving Collingbourne hope of an unlikely victory. Bertie Rogers (37) was next to join the fray after Chandler fell one short of a half century and he and Sheppard also shared just shy of a 100 run partnership taking the tally to 216-4 after 38 overs when Sheppard fell for a gargantuan 117 from 90 balls. The 2nds bowled Mildenhall out for 98 and then lost four wickets knocking the runs off. Mildenhall had no hesitation in deciding to bat first after winning the toss. Their openers got them away to a flying start. However, once the Collingbourne bowlers made the first breakthrough then the run rate dwindled. Jim Nicholson claimed 2-21 from ten overs, Archie Scott 3-10 from seven overs, John Baxter 3-11 from four overs and Tim Nichols 2-8 from just one over. In reply Collingbourne lost four wickets making the runs. Tim Nichols 23, Jack King 25, John Baxter 16, Pete Reynolds 16 and Archie Scott 6* were the run scorers. Collingbourne lost two wickets with just ten runs to win to rather take the gloss of their win.

2nds Pointless. 1st XI Lose in Last Over

21st May: Collingbourne 1st XII hosted Swindon A on 21/05/11 in Wilts Division 2. Bourne were keen to get a win under their belts having battled hard in their first two games of the season but coming second by narrow margins each time. Collingbourne won the toss and elected to bat in good conditions. Runs were hard to come by and by the half way stage Collingbourne had amassed 65 for the loss of one wicket largely thanks to a well crafted innings from Jamie Stamp (37). After drinks two wickets fell in quick succession bringing Bertie Rogers to the crease who was able to give the innings some much needed acceleration. Rogers hit a super 52 not out to guide Bourne to a competitive 200-9 after 45 Overs. In the field Collingbourne made a wonderful start. Tom Pike, bowling seam up for the first time this season bowled one of the best opening spells to be seen on the recreation ground for many a year. Pike finished with figures of 5 for 23 from 12 overs having bowled with genuine pace and hostility. Pike was well supported by débutante Neil Broomhead who bowled excellent line and length completing 10 overs for just 37 runs picking up a wicket in the process. At drinks Swindon had reached 85 for 6 and there was a serious game on. However, a monumental 100 run 7th wicket partnership for Swindon saw things get tight. Swindon required 38 from the last 6 overs with 4 wickets in hand. John Aitken (3-52) of Collingbourne took the game into the last over with Swindon needing 6 runs to win with 3 wickets in hand. Remarkably Aitken took two more wickets with his third and fouth delivery of the over with Swindon having only amassed four of the six they needed to win. A fairy tale end was too much to ask for as Swindon's no' 11 smeared the first delivery he faced for a boundary. Collingbourne lost by one wicket with just one ball remaining. Swindon opener Paul Bayden carried his bat to see his team over the line after a patient and very admiral innings of 105 not out. Heads remain high at the club despite this defeat. Beckington away for the 1st XII next week. Collingbourne confident that they will be able to turn this early season promise into a first win.

The 2nds were pointless against Wootton Bassett. Bowled out for just 31 in 11.3 overs and then Wootton Bassett making the runs in 4.3 overs. The least said about this the better.

9 Wickets in 12 Deliveries

May 26th: Miles Averill claimed an incredible five wickets in an over on Wednesday night. Unfortunately there were also 16 runs from the ten balls he bowled (two wides which also went for boundaries were included). Then the Hungerford South African star took an outstanding catch to get rid of Owen Sheppard before he got in on the multiple wicket act and claimed four in an over, including a hat trick, to finish Collingbourne off for just 73.

To see the four wickets in the Collingbourne innings click on the thumbnail below

1st XI Off the Mark: Poor Batting Does For 2nds Again

28th May: Collingbourne's 1^st XI recorded their first win of the season after three previous games ending in frustratingly close defeats. Collingbourne travelled to Beckington for their fourth game of the season in overcast conditions with a track that looked good to bowl on and a pitch with some short boundaries. Despite losing the toss Collingbourne were asked to field. Owen Sheppard opened the bowling for the first time in many a year and bowled an super spell of swing bowling getting good bounce. Sheppard (2-30) was well supported from the other end by John Candler (1-58) who seems to improve every game. Paul Campling (3-54) took up where Candler had let off and bowled a very disciplined 12 over spell arguably his best since joining the club. There was further promise from Ben Doherty (1-36) and débutante Luke Butler who took 1-19. The fielding was excellent with Butler, Bertie Rogers and Candler all taking super catches. The innings also included a wonderful run out by James Hutchons. The excellent all round team effort in the field enabled Bourne to restrict Beckington to 206 all out from 44.2 overs. Beckington rallied in the field and the brotherly combo of Stuart and Paul Swift were able to nip out Collingbourne's two opening batsmen by the 7^th over with just 20 on the board. Sheppard and Hutchons were able to steady the ship and took the score to 60 after 18 overs when sadly Hutchons had to retire hutch having been struck above the eye from a top edge resulting in an injury which required 3 stitches. In form Bertie Rogers was unable to continue his run scoring habits nicking one to the keeper and departing for a duck. Brother and Captain Geoff Rogers was next to bat. Rogers and Sheppard shared an 80 run partnership taking the score 160 with 12 overs remaining. Sheppard was out LBW in the 34^th over having scored a tremendous 82 including four sixes. Captain Rogers (62*) knuckled down and with excellent support from Campling and Karl Gingell Collingbourne got to the finish line with 4 overs remaining. A fantastic result for the Bourne who head off to Sidmouth on their annual tour from 29^th May 2^nd of June. The first team will be back in action on Sat 4^th June versus Urchfont on the recreation ground. Only stubborn resistance from John Baxter prevented the 2nds from being routed again. Baxter took the first ball of the game and was last out with the score on 99 having made 39. At 48-1 it seemed as if the 2nds were quite comfortable. However, a devastating spell of bowling from Ian Hardy, who claimed three wickets in his second over, reduced Collingbourne to 68-7. Hardy ended up with 5-27. Despite switching the bowling around in an effort to prevent the Cherhill batsmen from settling the visitors only lost two wickets in reaching their total in the 27th over. John Aitken 1-17 and John Baxter 1-16 were the wicket takers.

Sunday team Go Wilde

 5th June: On Sunday Owen Sheppard went to his third century of the season in a score of 266. Tim Nichols made 37, Ollie Mann 34, Jack King 50. Ramsbury made just 204-5 in reply. Twelve year old Harry Wilde claiming all the wickets to fall.

Jonathan Chandler Hits the Heights

Better From 2nds But Still Ending in Defeat

4th June: Jonathan Chandler made an incredible 125 and Owen Sheppard 66 as the 1st XI scored 293-5. In reply Urchfont went desperately close making 286-9. Ole Scott claiming 5-63.  An opening partnership of 116 between John Baxter and Tom Edmonds was the foundation of the 2nd XI's eventual total of 214-7 against title challengers Potterne IIIs. Edmonds finally succumbed for 86. There were also runs for Tim Nichols, Pete Reynolds and Rob Stamp. In reply Collingbourne had the home team struggling at 32-3. A stand of 62 between Kieron Chivers and Ryan Webb swung the game back their way. Collingbourne continued to take wickets and at 183-8 it was in the balance. The Pottern skipper, Andy Sainsbury then joined Brendon Whitbread and together they steered the home side over the line. This was a much better performance from the 2nds who are improving all the time.

1st in Comprehensive Win. 2nds Improvement Continues

The 2nds were also put into bat by Purton IIs. Like their senior counterparts they too were struggling on 23-3. A stand of 23 between skipper John Baxter and Jack King (15) started a recovery until King was caught at the wicket. However, Kris Wallbridge and Baxter then put together a stand of 104 for the 2nd wicket. Wallbridge hitting the ball to all parts of the ground made 43 whilst Baxter, playing the spinners with his customary fluency, (this is thinly disguised sarcasm) made 62 his first league fifty since joining the club. Wickets then tumbled in the final overs but Collingbourne made it over the 200 mark; Will Atkinson smashing a quick 19 including an all-run four. The Purton reply began cautiously against some good bowling from Jim Nicholson and Atkinson. It was the introduction of 17 year old Archie Scott that really paved the way for Collingbourne's eventual win. He took 2 wickets in his second over, another wicket in his third over and then in his fifth over claimed four wickets including the hat trick. The hat trick victims were all bowled. At 59-7 the game was really all over. Only Purton skipper Dave Allen was able to keep going making a superb 77 before being well caught and bowled by Craig Watts. John Baxter claiming the other two wickets to put Purton all out for 150.

President's Game Produces Run Glut

3rd July: The annual President's XI match produced a glut of runs. The club side batted first. Bert & Geoff Rogers both hit half centuries but they were outshone by Owen Shepherd who went to his fourth ton of the season. Playing for the President's XI was actor Mark McGann (one of the McGann acting family) he claimed two of the six wickets to fall as the club side knocked up a massive 331 in their 40 overs. In reply the President's XI got away to a positive start with James Grant leading the way with a hundred of his own. When he got to his personal milestone the score was 142 and was more or less up with the run rate. However, the later batsmen couldn't keep up the asking rate and eventually they were restricted to 250. James was not out on 137. There was splendid BBQ after the game and thanks are due to all who contributed to a great day's cricket. For a gallery of pictures click here.

Two Defeats

2nd July: On What was always going to be a difficult weekend both teams went to defeats. 1st XI lost away to Swindon C.S. The home side won the toss and decided to bat. A decision that was justified by their eventual total of 281-5. Only Ian Kiy was successful claiming all five wickets. Amazingly it was his first 'fivefor' in the club. In reply Collingbourne managed to get over the 200 mark but were never really in the chase. Graham Chandler top scoring with 50+. The 2nds lost at home to Biddestone IV. Asked to bat first Collingbourne got away to a good start through Rob Stamp and John Baxter who put on 50 for the first wicket in 15 overs. However, the introduction of the spinners slowed Collingbourne down and they were held to just 157-6. Baxter was not out 65 at the close. In reply Biddestone were in trouble on 33-3. Steve Morley then added some lusty blows in his 33 but on 72-5 Collingbourne seemed in some sort of control. Skipper Mark Merriman held the innings together for the visitors and he found useful company in the form of his young team mates especially Luke Panes who made a stubborn 18. The 6th wicket fell with the visitors still requiring 47 runs but Gary Young held his nerve to make 20 and it was left to Merriman to hit the winning runs from the third ball of the final over to complete his own personal half century.

Martha and James

The whole club would like to extend its congratulations to Martha and James Paterson who were married yesterday. We wish them a long and happy life together.

Mid-Week Team Break Their Duck

6th July: The mid-week team finally recorded their first league victory of the year with a great win over Marlborough. The visitors had batted first and made 111-3. Christian Grimley with two wickets and Tom Pike were the wicket takers. I reply Collingbourne Lots both openers, Pike and Owen Sheppard cheaply. Jack King (21) and Johnny Cummings (19) led the revival and they took the score to 55-2 after 6 overs. When they both got out. Geoff Rogers was left to guide the team home. Eventually he found an ally in skipper Miles Averill and Collingbourne were able to record a hard fought 1 wicket win. Rogers ending on 41* not out.

Billy Takes Five but 2nds Lose Thriller

9th July: The 2nds lost a thriller against table topping Warminster by just 2 runs at The Recreation Ground. Set to score 191 Collingbourne had to be content with 189-7 from their 45 overs. That Collingbourne were able to run Warminster so close was down to two performances. Billy Brett came on to bowl with the visitors seemingly on course for a massive total. Warminster were on 158-4 in the 28th over 7 overs later they were all out for 191 and Billy had claimed his first league five wicket haul. The reply was led by Tom Edmonds who hit a magnificent 95 before being caught on the boundary. Opening the batting with John Baxter (30) they got the Collingbourne reply off to a good start adding 66 for the first wicket in just 16 overs. With Tim Nichols (17) another 62 runs were added to put Collingbourne in a strong position. Geoff Rogers, playing due to the 1st XI game being off and the 2nds having a last minute drop out made 22. Sadly wickets began to fall as the later batsmen tried to push on for the winning runs and 7 were needed from the last over which only brought four. So Collingbourne were left to ruefully reflect on what might have been as they ponder no less than 6 dropped catches.

Another 'Fivefor'

10th July: Billy Brett claimed his second 'fivefor' of the week end in the home game against Bishop Cannings. The visitors were bowled out for 189. Collingbourne didn't quite make the runs but there was a stand of 90 between John Aitken and Dan Mercer. Pictures courtesy of Catherine Aitken. Click on the thumbnail to see the full size pic.

1st XI Get Great Result. 2nds Disappoint

1st XI Lose. 2nds Crush Purton

26th August: The 1st XI lost their vital top of the table clash against Corsham. Asked to score over 260 Collingbourne could only make 211-6. The 2nds bowled Purton out for just 84 and then knocked the runs off for the loss of 2 wickets.

Captain's Day Supports Pembroke Unit at Salisbury Hospital

The annual Captain's Day match produced some good cricket. Collingbourne were in trouble with 8 wickets down but a stand of 80 between Jon Candler and Bert Rogers eased them into a comfortable position. The Collingbourne innings had seen David Paterson roll back the years with a diving catch in the gully to dismiss Karl Rogers. There was good batting from Owen Sheppard and wickets for Jim Nicholson, Archie Scott and Phil James. The Captain's XI made 160. Phil James was top scorer. However, the cricket was really secondary to the main aim of the day which was to fund raise. This year David Gale has nominated the cause and it was to go to the Pembroke Unit at Salisbury Hospital. When the final amount is known it will be published on the web site.

1st XI Promoted 2nds End With Win

Back Row from left; P James, J Aitken, J Candler, O Sheppard, B Doherty, I Kiy, J Hutchons. Front Row from left; B Rogers, Jean Ayres (scorer), Geoff Rogers Captain, T Pike, A. Wrixon (Umpire), J Cummings

After defeat in their last game to league leaders Corsham, Collingbourne were keen to bounce back to winning ways against Swindon Civil Service. Collingbourne lost the toss and were asked to field on a good batting track in pleasant late season conditions. John Aitken (3-31) and Tom Pike (1-14) did a fabulous job with the new ball as they have done all season reducing Swindon to 50-4 after 20 Overs. Three other seamers were used; Jon Candler (1-19) Ben Doherty (2-25) and Phil James (3-14). A fabulous fielding display including three catches from wicket keeper Jon Cummings saw Bourne bowl Swindon out for 117. Collingbourne scored the required in just 30 0vers. Opening bat Ian Kiy the pick of the bunch carrying his bat for a well made 63*.
This result earns Collingbourne promotion into Wilts Division 1 having finished a solid second in Division 2. A proud moment for rookie skipper Geoff Rogers and his team who look forward to the new challenge next season. The 2nds also ended on a high note with a win over Biddestone. Mark Brett claimed three wickets as Biddestone were restricted to 134. In reply Tim Nichols with 30 and Pete Reynolds 39* were the main run getters as the 2nds cruised to a 6 wickets win. To read the final league tables click here.

The Captain's Charity day raised £460 for the Pembroke Unit at Salisbury Hospital. Well done to all who contributed.

6-a-side Triumph

On 4th September Collingbourne entered a team for the 2nd year running into the Burbage 6-a-side competition. The tournament comprised of 6 teams with 2 pools of 3 and the top 2 pool finishes playing for the cup with the teams finishing in 2nd place in their pools playing for the plate. Collingbourne won the plate last year and with their team of Owen Sheppard (cpt), Jon Cummings (wkt), Bertie Rogers, Jon Candler, Phil James and Luke Butler sporting their uniform of Collingbourne Royal Navy Blue Tour shirts were looking to improve on their Plate victory from last year. In their 3 games Collingbourne posted the 3 highest totals of the tournament of 77, 69 and 63 with many highlights from the games including Bertie Rogers bowling out 2 of the best batsmen in the tournament in 1 over and a reversal of batting order which saw Jon Candler and a very nervous Luke Butler put on 33 in 2 overs against last year's cup winners. In the end the Collingbourne high totals proved too much for the opposition and Collingbourne finished the tournament as cup victors, a result warmly received by the Burbage crowd as the other competing teams were all Burbage connected. This was despite the dancing, general mocking and slip cordons used during the games. Never the less Collingbourne have been invited back for next year and will look to defend their title.

AGM Report

The AGM of the Club was held on Wednesday 19th October. David Paterson welcomed everyone and his report reflected on a successful season which culminated in the promotion of the 1st XI to Wiltshire Div.1. It also saw the revival of the Youth Section under the guidance of Owen Sheppard and Mark Brett.

Karl Rogers' secretary's report commented on the sponsorship of the Barleycorn Inn which had proved to be very beneficial. The food laid on after the matches during the summer had been greatly appreciate. Karl outlined the contributions that the Club had made to the local community by highlighting the Kwik Kricket competition held on the Recreation Ground and the contribution that was made to the Village Show. There had been two social cricket competitions that Collingbourne had taken part in both at Burbage. In the first one international cricketers Henry Olonga and John Emburey were included in the Collingbourne team. In the later 6-a-side competition Collingbourne ran out eventual winners. Collingbourne also won the annual golf competition against Bedwyn and Burbage. Finally Karl announced that the Presentation Evening was to revert to a more 'home grown' affair in an attempt to keep the price down and hopefully attract a greater number of participants. The two charity matches against the Club Cpt's XI and the President's XI were both very enjoyable occasions the latter raising £500 for the Pembroke Unit at Salisbury Hospital.

Dave Cummings reported that the Club had lost £592 over the year with the main loss being the running of home games. So the committee were to raise the match fees to £7 per game for adults, £5 for students/unemployed and away teams were to be charged £40 for the tea. There was some discussion about offering ways for members to spread the cost of their annual subscriptions over a period of time.

Geoff Rogers' 1st XI report was full of praise for the way the team had responded after what had been a less than promising start losing the first four games. Highlights of the year were Owen Sheppard's hundred, Jonathan Chandler's massive innings of 160+ and bowling Corsham (the eventual league winners) out for 33. Collingbourne did suffer having four games called off and had the league been decided by an average points per game basis then Collingbourne would have been champions by a clear point. Graham Chandler (batting) and Tom Pike (bowling) topped the averages.

John Baxter's 2nd XI report commented that the playing record of the team didn't fully do the team justice as they had been unlucky to have games against weaker opposition rained off and the scratching from the league of Mildenhall who had been beaten by Collingbourne. Archie Scott's seven wicket haul (including a hat trick) against Purton. John Baxter (batting and Tim Nichols (bowling) topped the averages.

Tim Nichols' Sunday XI report was full of praise for the youngsters who were starting to come through especially Jack King, Harry Wild and Billy Brett.

The meeting approved the change to the annual subscription to £40 for adults £10 students/unemployed and £5 colts.

It was announced that Owen Sheppard had broken the record for the aggregate runs scored in the season with a total of 1,441. Geoff Rogers was elected Clubman of the Year and Billy Brett Young Player of the Year.

The following club officers were elected: President - Tom Edmonds, Chair - David Paterson, Secretary - Karl Rogers, Hon. Treas - David Cummings, Fixture Sec - Owen Sheppard, Club Captain - TBC, 1st XI Cpt - Geoff Rogers, 1st XI Vice-cpt - Tom Pike, 2nd XI Cpt - John Baxter, 2nd XI Vice-cpt - Mark Brett, Sunday XI Cpt,  - Tim Nichols, XI Vice-cpt - Mark Brett, Wednesday Cpt - Owen Sheppard/Miles Averill, XI Vice-cpt - Jon Candler. The following were elected to the committee: Mark Brett, Luke Butler & Graham Chandler.

 Collingbourne took on Andover in their 3^rd under 16’s indoor SADICA League game and for the 3^rd time running Captain Billy Brett lost the toss and Collingbourne were put into bat once again. Collingbourne's openers struggled against some very accurate bowling and only managed to put on 17 from the first 4 overs before Sam Walsh was bowled for 2. Proud continued to push runs as best he could with good support from Harry Wilde who managed a 6 amongst his innings total of 7. Unfortunately the remaining 3 batsmen of Billy Brett, Ash McGuire and Hayden Badford could only manage 1 run each as Collingbourne were finally bowled out for 34 from 9.2 overs. The Andover bowlers shared the wickets between them with their supior experience and age the difference between the teams. In reply Collingbourne were never going to stop Andover getting to such a score but did try to take wickets for more points from the game. Even with their best efforts Andover played the ball around the hall expertly and managed to knock off Collingbournes total in 3.2 overs. A crushing defeat for Collingbourne but one the young lads will learn from as they continue their very new road of playing competitive cricket. Next up is South Wilts which could be an even tougher test.

On Sunday 4th Dec Collingbourne B took on last years League champions Great Bedwyn B in their 3rd indoor League match of the season. Bedwyn won the toss and batted first as Collingbourne endured a good 'Palmering'. Rob Palmer scored his 25 within 2.2 overs including at least 2 sixes within his innings. You could say it was clever work by Collingbourne B to allow him to retire so quickly. The rest of the Bedwyn team continued to bat and run very well as Collingbourne mixed the bowling and the field up in an attempt to get wickets and stop runs. After a couple of good run outs Collingbourne saw Palmer return for a final flurry but did manage to keep Bedwyn to a total of 162 for 2. Considering they scored over 200 against Collingbourne B last season and 150 against the A-team earlier in the season this was a good effort.

In response Collingbourne found it hard going as good quick aggressive bowling pinned them back. Efforts from Sam McGuire, Mark Brett and Brian Silverwood were useful as they assisted Owen Sheppard in reaching his 25. A late flurrish from 2 of Collingbourne's youngest members of Luke Butler and Billy Brett meant that Collingbourne finished on about 78 for 3 from their 10 overs. This was the first time Collingbourne B were not all out this season.

Indoor league Reports