Both visitors Weybridge CC and hosts Nomads 1st team played out a spirited, skillful game of early season cricket full of sportsmanship and good humor. The afternoon, filled with bright sunshine and a gentle breeze was a perfect curtain raiser for both clubs which hopefully they can build upon.

Having won the toss Nomads skipper Dan Phillips decided to have a bat in the 40 over game. A new opening pair of Nathan and wk Jake got the season off to a blistering start as the new white ball was being dispatched to all parts of the south ground. Both were in scintillating form as the score raced past 50 with out loss in double quick time. An exciting opening salvo came to an end as both were fell to good balls. Veteran Stuart Faith, batting at three, looked to be enjoying his anchor role and seemed very comfortable in scoring 15 measured runs. However an ‘effort’ ball from quickie Ralph rose high and Stuart was unlucky to get a tickle on route to keeper.

Liam O strode to the crease in confident form and was to go on not only enhance a good start but also build a winning score. He carefully got his eye in for a few overs before showing an impressive range of straight batting scoring 75. He was still batting as the Nomad scored raced past 200 for 4. Legend Kash, batting at 6, played a hugely entertaining and important knock when hitting four 6s on route to 75 not out. A beautiful sound echoed across the ground as Kash muscled the ball into the adjoining field, perhaps the champagne moment of the match.

40 entertaining overs were quickly bowled with Nomads ending up on 261 for 5.

Nav was thrown the new ball and as we have become accustomed to he gave an assured and pacy session of opening bowling from the club house end. He will have been pleased with figures of 6 overs 1 for 13. He was aided by our new youngster Ayden from the other end. Against this strong attack Weybridge did bat very well especially R Tucker who made a steady 30. The score after 23 overs was 99 for four and there was a feeling around the ground that the game was still in the balance. However as the pace was slowed with the introduction of Adam O (4 for 31 off 8 overs) wickets began to fall swiftly. That along with a pulsating energy in the field and three catches by our other new youngster Bertie quickly wrapped up a win for the Nomads. Ayden finished the action when taking a stunning high catch as Weybridge were stranded on 170 all out after 38 overs.

Bowman says ‘there is a long way to go before Dan steps out to lead his team against Eastbourne in the 1st League game of the season (8th May). It would be wrong for us all to get carried away after one successful friendly match. However, there were some very positive things happening today that can be nurtured and improved. To a man the simple things were done well which added up to victory against a strong Surrey team. The introduction of youngsters Bertie and Ayden gave positive energy in the field and both can bowl well. I wish them both well as they take their place in the Nomad family. Hopefully Liam will be pleased to accept my man of the match award, well batted mate.

Many thanks to Weybridge CC for travelling to be with us and sharing a brilliant afternoon at the SCMG.