What a difference a year makes. Last year we finished 9th in the Premier League and were only saved from relegation on a technicality and yet this year we are back in more familiar territory in 3rd place. The key highlights from the season and their impact upon the 3rd XI “All Time Greats” are detailed below.

• The qualification to become a batting “All Time Great” has been increased from 700 runs to an equally modest 750. It has meant we say goodbye to D.Tharp, N.Hutton, S.Brewis and A.Hook. The latter two may get back in as may Luke Haughton, when his days at higher echelons are over.
• Steve Cross has entered the list and joined an elite group of 5 all-rounders in both batting and bowling records.
• Antony Ireland pushes his lead as highest all time run scorer even further ahead, his 2635 runs being 623 ahead of Alex Robinson.
• David Loft’s one innings of the season sadly saw his 5 runs remove him from the top spot in the averages, now held by Jon Smith.
• No centuries or record stands this year.
• The bowling qualification has also gone up modestly from 45 to 50 wickets, leaving us to wave good bye to M.Cameron, W.Tiley and I.Hameed. Callum Gurbutt and Sri Vuppala are now tantalisingly close to the 100 wicket milestone, on 95 and 97 respectively.
• For the 2nd season running Callum was the only player to register a 6 wicket haul. To take 6-11 against Wimbledon is really special.

No record partnerships this year.