Skip over navigation

Result - Earl De La Warr's XI

Sat Jul 3rd Grannies lose by 8 runs

Match report

While we are all cricket bores in our own way and like nothing more than to recount tales of scoring belligerent centuries and taking implausible fivefers, this fixture was not so much about the game itself but rather the surroundings & the hospitality & as such, I shall be brief on the “detail”.

The Grannies lost this inaugural fixture vs Earl de La Warr’s XI by 8 runs on a wet track where going aerial got more bang for your buck than elegant straight drives into the long damp grass. That’s about it. The highlights package would therefore be somewhat short – think goalless draw between Southampton and Norwich on Match of the Day.

That though fails to tell the whole story. Not so much a game of 2 halves but one of 2 meals ! Arriving early at the local pub (owned by his Lordship) we were ushered away due to a Covid outbreak. An abortive attempt at lunch at another local hostelry saw the team arrive at Withyham to be greeted by a barrel of Harveys being liberally distributed to all and a former England Captain waiting patiently to toss up. The Honourable Christopher Stuart Cowdrey won said toss & ultimately the game. The final over of the EDW XI innings was faced by the 11th Earl himself. He didn’t trouble the scorers but did surprise all when, after the 4th ball of the over, declared that he had to go now as he had a horse racing in the 4pm at Doncaster. How the other half…….
This brought on tea which was epic – particularly given the paucity of teas largely on offer post Covid. All of the staples were on display including a magnificent pork pie which I am assured won prizes in this year’s Withyham fete.

Chasing a modest 120 in 30 overs proved to be a struggle despite fine contributions from Amato (24), Brocklehurst (19), Van Lare & Hill. Our disappointment at losing was soon dispelled as players, family & friends all marched up to “the big house” to be greeted with a full hog roast, fine wine and a large TV for “the young” to watch the England vs Ukraine footy game. Speeches were made along with numerous toasts to our generous host. All in all a truly fantastic day finished off with the great news that we are expected back again next year. Hopefully then the cricket will live up to the post match entertainment.

Match info



Location
Withyham Cricket Club,
Buckhurst Park,
Withyham,
Crowborough,
TN7 4BD

How to get there
The ground is on the Buckhurst Estate, behind the Dorset Arms in Withyham. The entrance is off the B2110, through the gates near the post box. Car parking is 500m along the estate road on the left.