Cricket lovers gathered for a match that marked both the end of the season and the end of an era. After almost four decades of dedicated service, Harry Bates, the Honorary Groundsperson, was overseeing his final game, and the match against Windsor Great Park Cricket Club was a celebration of all that is good about cricket.
Cumulonimbuss clouds hovered above, their dark underbellies a reminder that rain was never far away so the the match was shortened to 30 overs per side. The atmosphere was cheerful, with players and spectators enjoying one last Summer outing.
The Brigands’ innings began with Guy Ladenburg and Dave Henderson - neck and neck in cumulative runs scored this season - opening. Live updates were being relayed to diners in the Bat & Ball pub - 9 runs off the first over!
However, the early joy was short-lived as both Ladenburg and Henderson fell in the first ten minutes, leaving the Brigands in early trouble.
It was up to the middle order to save the day. Adam Jay, known for his sharp square cuts, brought stability to the innings with a well-compiled 23.
Steve Blackburn defended with the precision of someone playing beach cricket, but when given a loose ball he cleared his front leg and hammered it to Long On, much to the delight of the crowd.
Dougie Henderson contributed a stylish 20 runs, his cover drives a highlight of the day. Henderson’s ability to turn ones into twos with his aggressive running between the wickets kept the pressure on the Windsor fielders. Jim Morris, the steady hand in the middle order, added a valuable 21 to get the Brigands up to 127 by the end of their 30 overs.
A quintessential English cricket tea was served—egg sandwiches, sausage rolls, homemade cookies, fluffy scones, and a delicious carrot cake were the highlights; the spread as much a part of the day’s tradition as the cricket itself.
Windsor Great Park came out to bat with intent, smashing a straight six in the first over and hitting boundaries in each of the first five overs. Brigands’ bowlers, led by Neil Wood and Guy Ladenburg, clawed Brigands back into the match. Ladenburg, took two wickets in successive balls, while Paul Bailey took a sharp catch behind the stumps.
But the boys from Windsor kept hitting the ball into the gaps and chased down the target, securing a victory on their first visit to the cradle of cricket.
After the match, everyone gathered on the square for a farewell ceremony. Harry Bates thanked everyone for their support over the years, especially the ladies who had kept him well-fed during countless cricket teas. He turned to his wife, his voice thick with emotion, and said “Nina has been by my side for all these years, painting the lines, picking up the leaves, cleaning the showers, and doing a thousand other thankless tasks that kept this ground running. I couldn’t have done it without her.” The crowd erupted in applause. The couple had been the heart and soul of Broadhalfpenny Down, and the recognition of Nina’s hard work added a poignant touch to the celebration.
At the Bat & Ball pub, Harry was presented with a special tie by Windsor Great Park and toasts were raised, stories were shared, and laughter filled the pub garden. Summer rain began to fall. Umbrellas went up, children put on Brigands caps to catch the rain drops, Harry and Nina drove away to a guard of honour, and a beautiful rainbow appeared over the valley.
Brigands 127-6 lost to Windsor Great Park 128-4 by 6 wickets
Photos from Kris Newton, Adam Jay, and Dave Henderson.
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