2nd XI v Slimbridge
The 2nd XI put on a dominant all-round display in very chilly conditions at the John Hawkins Ground, comfortably beating Slimbridge 1st XI by 115 runs to continue their strong start to the season.
Cold Weather, Hot Hands
With thermals as essential as thigh pads, Hawkesbury were asked to bat first on a biting afternoon and made full use of the conditions, posting a commanding 283/6 from their 40 overs.
The headline act was a thunderous innings from Daniel Blackwell, who smashed a sublime 152, laced with 16 fours and 7 sixes. From the moment he got going, Blackwell was peppering the pavilion with a relentless assault of clean hitting — forcing teammates and spectators alike to duck for cover more than once.
One enormous six cleared the practice nets entirely, prompting a few concerned looks toward the village. But the true moment of drama came when Blackwell unleashed a rocket straight back down the track — nearly decapitating Rob Watts, who was umpiring at the time. Watts, showing cat-like instincts (or blind panic), took evasive action. The ball clipped the top of the stumps just in front of him, then ricocheted over his head, as Rob twisted mid-dodge and ended up pole-axed on the turf.
Paul German added a composed 30, while Jon Wallace chimed in with a sharp 33 not out*, ensuring Hawkesbury made full use of the platform.

? Dog Days, Drama & Decisions
As if the cold wasn’t enough, proceedings were briefly halted when a stray dog made an unscheduled appearance, galloping across the outfield and inspecting the slips before being safely escorted off. A classic bit of village theatre.
Things got spicier a few overs later when one of the openers, the visitors’ top scorer with 76 not out, appeared to edge one behind, only for the appeal to be turned down. A few puzzled looks, a few raised eyebrows, and a lot of "seen 'em given" — but Hawkesbury kept their heads and got back to business.

? Ruthless with the Ball
The bowlers were once again excellent, keeping the scoring tight and the pressure on. Tim Chancellor was the pick of the attack with 3 for 20, showing real consistency and control. He was well supported by Ed Riddington, who took 2 for 21, as Slimbridge limped to 168/5 from their 40 overs — never truly threatening the target.

Umpiring Antics & Aftermath
Special mention must go to Rory Thomas, who not only delivered a tidy spell with the ball — but arguably stole the show with the white coat in hand. Stepping in as umpire, Rory brought his own unique brand of theatrical enthusiasm to proceedings. His performance included dramatic signals, questionable gesturing, and a level of flair not seen since Nigel Llong at his flamboyant peak.
In true village tradition, the team has responded accordingly. Rory has now been affectionately nicknamed "Trigger" and, after his unforgettable performance, has exposed the 2nd XI’s next social theme: Only Fools and Horses.
Given recent form, we fully expect outrageous costumes, name mix-ups, and almost certainly a broom with 17 new heads. Lovely jubbly.

Player of the Match
Daniel Blackwell – A monstrous 152 that defined the match, cleared the nets, peppered the pavilion, and nearly wiped out the square-leg umpire.

Summary
Hawkesbury Upton CC 2nd XI: 283/6 (40 overs)
Slimbridge CC 1st XI: 168/5 (40 overs)
Result: Hawkesbury won by 115 runs
Points: Hawkesbury – 17 | Slimbridge – 6
A big win, a big hundred, a stray dog, umpiring theatre, and one near-death experience. Just another glorious Saturday for the 2s.

3rd XI v Frampton on Severn
On a gloomy breezy day in Hillesley the third's lost the toss and were put into bat. In difficult conditions Lee Hodson (35) and Steve Johnson (47) made a solid start but partnerships were hard to build. However that didn't slow Freddie Marshall (43) and Tom Hibbitt (41) who dealt in boundaries (16x4's between them!) to get us to a very respectable 236 for 9 wickets, even Big Ade Fish dusted off the willow for a quick fire 1 run off 1 ball. With the ultimate mix of youth and experience the opening attack of Fishley (age unknown) and Charlie Johnson (U13), instantly put the shackles on the Frampton batsman. Charlie taking a wicket in his first and third over. After 8 overs they were on 7 runs! Hibbitt replaced Charlie and took the third in his first over. Fishley bowled through finishing on 8 overs no wickets for a measly 9 runs. Frampton struggled for runs and as drinks approached Hibbitt (2 for 24) bagged his second and with some great work between Johnson Snr and Zac Walker they engineered a run out. After drinks Burnell and Charlie mopped up the tail for 18 runs! Burnell finishing on 4 for 10 and Charlie 3 for 8 off his 8 overs! Great bowling performance with 13 of the 28 overs maidens! So another fine win by 174 runs?
Shout out to Alison for another excellent tea this season.