By Alan Howick

OBVIOUSLY, here in England our England what do you expect? Sunshine all week then along comes Saturday, important 1^st XI league match similar for our 2^nd XI, and the heavens opened. On/off, on/off from 10.30 Saturday morning. The 4^th XI rocked up to find out if it’s raining for their game down at Woodford Wells, yes, game on! Really was the response and off they trudged to visit the M25. Lucky people. Here at Marigolds, the visitors 3^rd XI skipper wanted the game called off some two hours before play was due to start.

The 1st XI and our guests from West Essex, along with a very chatty umpire decided to hang around and eventually, the rain stopped. OK, lets have tea at 2pm, then get a minimum twenty over in from 3pm? Yep, agreed both teams. Over on Spicers the measurable visiting skipper was even more miserable than earlier. He did not want to play. So, Cliff our effervescent groundsman gave him a few tips about lifestyle and happiness.

In the meantime, our 4^th XI avoided chaos on the M25 but not the rain in Woodford Wells, game off, so they came home to see if there was any action at Marigolds.

Along comes 3pm, all bright and sunny, covers removed from both wickets and game on! Well for half an hour or so we eventually get under way for precisely A3 overs and four balls. The heavens opened!  Both games the 1^st XI and our neighbouring 3^rd XI rush off the field, then ran all the way back to pull over the covers, day finished. The previously mentioned opposition skipper was not seen ever again he was off.

So, around thirty or so disappointed cricketers having a few beers whilst watching might Albion beat up Man United, much to Harlow President joy plus live test cricket in the Manchester sunshine. Happy endings.

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On a bright bezzy Sunday Bank Holiday, we had dozens of kids running around enjoying a bright lovely weekend celebrating our 250^th Anniversary year with a celebration of cricket which started up at 11.00 running right through to the early evening time. A brilliant day finished off with prize giving for our brilliant’s youngsters and a special gift to our wonderful Colts coordinator, Allison Jessey. A terrific day for both the children and parents finished with a BBQ via our kitchen!! Long story there.

Come Monday morning, up and running again, this time a double header of cricket matches.

The first game at 12 (high) noon – a 100 bash, no fireworks our glamorous cheer leaders just our friends at Harlow Rugby Club for our annual challenge match. Such fun and plenty of ber consumed before the match, during and straight after. Not sure who won, might have been the Harlow XI but no one really cared just enjoyed the day. It was also the very first game of cricket for one of the rugby boys who is now creeping well into his 50’s. First ball bowled, forgiven then smashed a four a few balls later! Well done Kerry.

The next game being Overs & Unders, being in real life, many well under 30’s verses those who are well over 30 as well. There was a little bit dad smashing son or the other way atound, all played in the best spirit of the game which went the full distance for a 100 ball match, with the kids creeping in with  a victory on the last ball.

Both games were well served with a repeat of the Kitchen BBQ.