Denzil's Last Dance

No promotion for the 3s, sadly, as despite going into this match having only lost 3, the numerous cancellations cost us dearly as others played
on, got wins and 30s, while we kicked our heels and got 10s. There you go.

On this Saturday we were at Northwick Park, which is not bad as far as council parks pitches go, but it has no covers and more basically, no toilets. So people have to improvise on the toilet front. Clive, called in late on Saturday morning after Chanul pulled up lame, thereby helping us out enormously, was particularly inventive here.

An experienced and talented Watford side, featuring ex-TMCC Bilawal Sheikh, ran up the highest score we have conceded this term - Steve was absent on doctor's orders, and obviously Chanul would have provided a bowling option, while Josh's pace was meat (halal of course) and drink to these guys. Nikeal (2-24 from 9) and X (1 for 22 from 9) did what they do and did it extremely well, but pace of any sort went a reasonable distance.

New opening pair of Josh (30) and Ayrton (40) proceeded to put on 65 for the first wicket in some style, but wickets began to fall, and the required run rate to rise. Neil/Denzil/Denno was looking as solid as ever until drinks break did its thing, and he was caught and bowled - Eklavya showed his late-season return to form with an excellent unbeaten 42, while George (24) showed a lot more fluency in the middle order than at the top.

The last rites were administered when Abhi succumbed to a big turning off-spinner, on a very dry pitch, and Denzil's last dance (he moves on to his new club nearer his new home) was also over. Full tribute to follow to a man who made my life infinitely easier, by taking loads of slip catches off my bowling, by assuming captaincy and other leadership roles at a young age. With a top score of 125 (if you were there, an innings not to be forgotten) and best bowling, from memory, of 5-30, cheerio to a genuine all-rounder who made a massive contribution to TCC and TMCC life over many years.

Played, Denno!