T
he 1st XI of 2009 must be
one of the most successful
teams in King's cricket history,
and were described by many
people as "one of the
strongest teams in the
country" during the season. Their clinical
approach with bat, ball and in the field was
impressive - what a privilege to have had such
a wealth of talent in one team.
Unbeaten in 50 overs, we beat Queen's,
Taunton, Clifton, Bristol Grammar School and
Blundell's to finish top of the league formed by
these schools. We also had historic and
memorable victories against Millfield and
Sherborne, and beat MCC, XL Club, King's,
Bruton, Monmouth, Royal Marines,
Krugersdorp (SA), KEVICCS and a HM XI.
We were also crowned champions of the
inaugural Western Schools Twenty20
competition.
Leading from the front in his fifth season in the
team, Jos Buttler showed why he is so highly
rated as a player. His
useful glove work and
dominance with the bat
was a pleasure to behold.
He thoroughly deserved his
selection for the England
Under 19 team, and
Somerset's Champions
League squad. Nick Evans
was the 'glue' in our batting
line-up, his calm presence
ensuring many a successful
run chase, memorably his
69 against Millfield, a
classy innings indeed. He
also stepped in as captain
on a few occasions and did
so with distinction. Along
with Nick, Alex Barrow was outstanding in the
covers. His brilliant catch against King
Edward's, Bath was just reward for the hours he
spends working on his fielding. He continued to
mature with the bat, and his two centuries this
season confirmed what a talented player he is.
Craig Meschede, voted most valued player by his
teammates, worked tirelessly with both bat and
ball. His unbeaten hundred against Millfield was
certainly a highlight, and his pace and precision
with the new ball always proved a bit much for
opposition openers. He completed our trio of
Somerset 2nd XI players, a rare and proud
achievement for King's!
Nathan Smith complemented Craig with the
new ball, taking an impressive 35 wickets this
season. He too was rewarded for his hard work
with a place in the Somerset Under 17 team.
Ed Kean and Miles Lenygon certainly improved
as the season progressed. Miles established
himself as a true all-rounder and had a superb
last week, scoring a fifty in all four matches he
played in. His big hitting in the Twenty20 final
will long be remembered, especially the last
over in which he hit five sixes! Ed's moment of
glory came against Taunton in which he took us
from a very precarious situation and scored an
unbeaten 50, setting up what at one stage
looked like an unlikely victory.
Todd Barrett, the youngest member of our
team, also played a key role in the batting
revival against Taunton. As a leg-spinner, he
shows a lot of promise and must take on board
the lessons learnt this season. Charles Morris,
when fit, proved what a threat he can be with
the ball. I have no doubt that he will develop
into a fine seam bowler. To Ed Nash, Ben de
Figueiredo, George Lock, Harry Canning and
Rhys Davies - thank you for your commitment
and the key roles that you played as part of
this successful team.
Success is not only down to the hard work of
the players, but also of a committed coaching
staff. The time and effort given up by Dennis
Breakwell to help us with the winter net
programme was greatly appreciated. His advice
and knowledge has been invaluable in bringing
on our stars. Phil Lewis must also be thanked
for his enthusiasm and effort working with the
players this summer, adding a new dimension to
the coaching team. I have no doubt he will
build on this season, and wish him every
success as he takes over as director of cricket.
On a personal note, I have thoroughly enjoyed
being involved in this set-up for the past five
years. It has been a privilege running the 1st
XI, and I shall always look back on this time
with fond memories. King's cricket is moving
forward, thanks to a committed staff, talented
players and very supportive parents. I shall
miss all of you!
Aluredian
88
Cricket
1st XI
by
Andy Jones
Nathan Smith bowls with
aggression against Millfield
in the Twenty20 Cup
Image © Harry Marshall