Bouncing back

Last weekend proved to be a very successful one for us at Kimberley. After a frustrating start, things started to click for both the 1^st XI and the 2^nd XI which resulted in two excellent wins. I was given the chance to have a good run out in the 2^nd XI this week, where I got the rare opportunity to open the batting, something I really enjoyed. Although, by Sunday I was regretting it as I was struggling to get up the stairs!

The first team game was dominated by a superb innings from Dominic Brown. Dom is a young man who works extremely hard on his game, and I was delighted to hear that he has scored his maiden 1^st XI century. Any hundred is special, but the context of this one in chasing down a big score of 270, after the results we have had in the first couple of games, makes it all the more impressive. I know Dominic has high ambitions with his cricket, and every season I have played with him I have seen improvements. This year he looks to be really blossoming, and I am of the opinion he could do something very special.

Dominic couldn’t have reached the target on his own though, and Kimberley were indebted to a superb supporting knock from Tom Rowe. Tom has really started to build up a head of steam, scoring 150 runs in two innings a fortnight ago, and then a good 70 on Saturday. If he can continue in that vein, with the positive way he bats, then our middle order starts to look very strong.

This coming weekend we face two league matches. Firstly, Attenborough away followed by Welbeck at home. Both will provide different challenges but they will be stern tests, and it is important we now build on the good batting display from Saturday.

Our success this season will be dependent on how well our young side are able to cope with pressurised situations. Performing well when your backs are up against the wall, and having the determination to turn around situations is a vital component for any successful side. Saturday was hopefully a big step in proving that we have the quality, but perhaps more importantly the shrewdness not to panic when things are not going for you. Here’s to another successful weekend. C’mon Kimberley!