Strap yourselves in — we’ve got a full set of fixtures this weekend and the weather gods are smiling (for now). With all three Oakley CC sides in action, this round of games could make or break early season momentum… or at least give us something to talk about in the bar afterwards.
First XI – Away at Hartley Wintney II
The Firsts hit the road to Hartley Wintney, still hunting that elusive first win of the season. It’s been a bit of a bumpy start, and the signs are that we’re in for a gritty relegation threatened campaign where every point matters. But if you’re going to turn a corner, a belting batting track like Hartley Wintney isn’t a bad place to do it. Runs and plenty of them, will be key — but we also need to rediscover the art of wicket-taking, which has recently felt rarer than snow in June.
Time to sharpen up, dig in, start believing, get runs on the board and doing less predictable things with the ball in hand.
Second XI – Home vs Thruxton
Things are looking far brighter for the Seconds, who return to Oakley in fine form after two big wins on the bounce. Those results have launched them into fifth — practically orbiting the top four — and confidence is high. Next up? Second-placed Thruxton. It’s a big test, but Ian’s happy with his team and believes the they can mix it with the best of the in CN5. Keep the winning streak gong and who knows — we might start mentioning the “P” word (promotion, not pressure… although maybe both).
Third XI – Away at Basingstoke V
The 3s are flying. Truly. Another top-of-the-table clash awaits as they travel to take on Basingstoke V in what could be a cracker. It’s the kind of game that has all the ingredients: form, rivalry, and the promise of high drama. With strong availability this week (Dan’s still grinning), the team looks well-balanced and ready. A win here would put the Threes firmly in nosebleed territory — and whisper it quietly — genuine promotion contenders. Or at the very least, top of the “best of the rest” league with a view of the summit.
One Weekend, Three Games, Infinite Possibilities
The forecast is fair, the teams are ready, and anticipation is sky high. What happens from here is anyone’s guess. It could be a famous hat trick of wins… or a hat trick of heartbreaks. One thing’s for sure — there’ll be no shortage of drama. Expect tight finishes, surprise heroes, and at least one dropped catch giving some poor sod a sleepless Saturday night.
Go well lads…on we travel.