For the second consecutive year, the sun beat down on the annual Wanderers vs Downside cricket match, providing a beautiful day for players, OGs, and supporters to come together and remember those who lost their lives in the air crash at Downside 80 years ago.
We are extremely grateful for the continued support afforded to us by the Wanderers, from their annual visits to Downside for their match against the School to various fundraising appeals throughout the years, which have provided enhanced facilities. More recently, we received new mobile covers and boundary ropes as a result of the Centenary Dinner in October 2022. We look forward to many more sunny fixtures at Downside.
Downside Wanderers Captain, George Hobbs (R17) shares a summary of the day.
We began with a short yet moving remembrance service, honouring those who lost their lives, and the game was framed in a deep sense of gratitude for the opportunity to play at this wonderful venue.
Once play got underway at midday, it became evident that an exciting match was in store. Lawrie Graham (R16) and Louis Hanson (S22) got the Wanderers off to a brilliant start, scoring 44 and 65 respectively. However, old habits die hard, and it wasn’t long until the wickets started tumbling. Put on hold only for a moment by a delicious match tea, the battle between ball and bat raged on. A collapse was saved by a handy 25 from Jack Smith (S18), with Will Church (C02) and Freddie Hobbs (S16) posting a partnership of 30. The innings concluded with the School taking all 10 wickets for a total of 184. Notable mentions must go to Joseph, Finlay and James who took 3 wickets each for the School.
It was a quick turn around and soon enough it was the Wanderers’ turn to have a go with the ball in hand. I quickly discovered that opening the bowling was absolutely not like riding a bike. After a particularly shaky 3 overs, I was forced to make the first bowling change, removing myself from the attack, in order to stem the flow of extras. Fortunately, Charlie Hobbs (R19) rose to the challenge and bowled five tight overs. The opening partnership of 39 was finally broken by Ed Dewar (C96), with a blistering bouncer that caught Jones off guard.
What followed was an incredibly close contest. Leo, the eventual recipient of the Gordon Hemmings Award for the outstanding player of the match, kept the Wanderers on their toes. He smashed a quickfire 55 before being dismissed by a truly brilliant catch from Will Kirkpatrick (C96), who stood at first slip. However, to the Wanderers’ fortune, our secret weapon was lurking behind the stumps. A keeper change at tea brought Jack Smith into the attack. His pure athleticism was on full display as he proceeded to take 4 wickets, sealing the game for the Wanderers.
It was a truly fantastic day. As always, cricket emerged as the ultimate victor. We celebrated another successful trip to Downside with the customary BBQ and beers, which have become a major draw for many Wanderers attending the game. If you couldn’t make it this time, I would implore any OG to have the date in your diary for next year’s fixture, once available. It always proves to be one of the great weekends of the year.
