2007 Review
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West Wales XI
Report
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The whole point of the West Wales XI is
to provide a pathway to the heady heights of the 1st and 2nd
XI’s for our young cricketers and a safe haven for some senior players
whose powers have perhaps begun to decline a little.
To this end the 2007 season can be
counted a success. It’s nice to record three wins, the best record for
some years but it is even more satisfying to note the progress of Adam
Wood, James Thomas and Rhydian Harris to the 2nd XI and the
contributions they made having got there.
Within the West Wales XI itself,
Alastair Brace developed as an all rounder, Ben Rowland looked good with
the bat and when not burdened with his A Levels, Arvind Singhal was the
leading bowler. There was good support too from Ben Gehler. It was good to
welcome back Andrew Newark to Cowbridge after living in the Cotswolds for
a spell, the prospect of his bowling up hill into the wind obviously not
proving a deterrent. Of the seniors we welcomed Gareth John into the fold
but he kept his best spell for the last match of the season taking eight
at Ynysygerwn. Similarly Jon Brazier’s best form emerged late in the
season. Collin White and David Webb were as enthusiastic as ever and an
example to all.
As well as defeating Ynysygerwn other
victories were achieved against Port Talbot and Ammanford where James
Thomas and Arvind Singhal respectively spun and blasted us to victory.
There were also good draws against Swansea A and Gowerton B and victory
should really have been achieved against Swansea B.
In 2008 the West Wales Cricket
Association will revert to a two-division format with three new teams and
the bottom seven from 2007 forming Division Two. The fact that we are in
this lesser Division will be of benefit to the Club as the opportunities
for the younger cricketers to excel will be more favourable.
One further success of last season was
the decision to pick up on a tradition from the 1970’s by going over to
the Athletic Ground for tea. One problem though referred to elsewhere in
this magazine is the state of the wicket at the School Field. We cannot go
on with this for much longer before the League authorities decline to
sanction matches there. A way forward is being sought with the Club, the
School and the Cricket Board of Wales all involved and we very much hope
to achieve a positive resolution.
Jeff Bird
West Wales XI Captain
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