Blessed with amazing weather, Ricky have been fortunate enough to get 33 players out on the pitch for the first two warm-up games, which is unprecedented but shows the real interest in the club this year. A big thanks to those who have made themselves available.

Last week the team took on a strong Fulmer village side bolstered by a couple of 'ringers'. Fulmer racked up 255/8 (itself a record for the top pitch), with a quick outfield and some friendly bowling from Ricky combining to maximum effect. The wickets were shared around. The Ricky reply of 222 was outstanding with Paul and Vijay partnering for 49 before Vijay took centre stage with a magnificent 79. Vijay in top form already and it showed. Manny (34) and Neal (20) contributed later on as Ricky did have a great warm-up.

Yesterday it was a weaker team (sorry to say so chaps) due to some pull-outs but the opposition were also equal to us. And fine fellows they were. Batting first, is was Vishal (37) who held the team together with Kamundu (27) at the beginning. Vishal is really establishing a consistent base for the team every week, as he did last year. At no. 5 was Alfie, one of Harvey's school friends, who, despite not playing Cricket before, set about the bowling with a fine array of shots. He showed what was possible with 33 before being run out. Theo, our star teenage wicket keeper then took over and smashed 48 unbeaten runs, hitting boundaries and running quick singles with Alfie. 173 in 35 overs was good going and the 'team' had now scored over 400 runs in 2 innings.

The OMVCC batters were also good and although the Ricky bowling was sometimes good, there was always a loose ball they could hit every over it seemed. 13 year old Dishan Patel took a wicket with his 2nd ball. Late on, Paul was brought on for his annual friendly bowl and took 2-22, but by then the damage had been done and with 20 balls to spare, Mill Hill reached their target for the loss of 7 wickets.

The final warm-up game is next Saturday and we need as many players available as possible so we start the league season strongly.