The 1st XI travelling to last season’s runners up was: A.Pitt, N.Chaplin, B.Coe, S.Yelverton, H.Choules+, G.Daldorph, D.Robbins, S.Hardwicke, B.Slaviero, A.Jopling, J.Choules.

The hosts, newly merged with Belstone CC, won the toss and elected to bat in the favourable over-ground conditions. Slaviero and Daldorph got to work with their usual vigour as the openers sought to see them off, few runs being scored in front of square. Ewen eventually managed to squeeze a couple of boundaries through the offside as the total reached 25-0 from the opening powerplay.

As Robbins replaced Slaviero, Daldorph made the breakthrough at the Top End when he wrapped Pengelley’s pads. This bright the dangerous Glasgow to the crease, George beating his bat in the early exchanges.

Robbins brought about some half chances while Jopling was also introduced against his old club. The spinner felt he had Glasgow when there was a big appeal for caught behind but the umpire remained unmoved. Not to be frustrated, Jopling followed up with a sublime caught and bowled to remove opener Ewen.

Spin therefore appeared to be the solution for Thors as Hardwicke replaced Robbins at the Bottom End. After a loosener, the student removed Glasgow when he reverse swept one onto his own stumps. Kian Burns came in with intent but it was ‘6 and out’ to give Hardwicke his second. The hosts 78-4 from 21 overs and wickets now starting to tumble regularly.

Skipper Tallan Burns and P. Penberthy attempted to rebuild but could only add 8 more before Jopling cleaned up Burns. Penberthy was next to go when he skied one to Pitt off of Hardwicke. It took another 7 overs before Jopling levelled Hardwicke on 3 wickets apiece – the hosts now 104-7.

Horn showed real intent when he came in swinging which prompted the skipper to turn back to Daldorph and Slaviero. The Number 9 could only connect a couple of times while Slaviero kept things tight and Daldorph hunted for wickets. George removed Gillespie for 18, Slaviero swiftly dealt with the Number 10 to give H Choules his first catch of the season, before Horn was last man out via a Daldorph yorker. Bridestowe 135AO.

With an hour before the scheduled tea break, Pitt and Chaplin had the challenging task of negotiating 15 overs straight away. Chaplin put Thors at ease immediately though, striking 3 boundaries in the opening 2 overs. Pitt also took a liking to Gillespie as Thors raced to 29-0 from 5.

When Craig Penberthy was introduced and Burns found his rhythm, things became more challenging. The pair bowled with good pace, albeit Chaplin used it to his advantage on a couple of occasions, dealing with anything too straight. Eventually Nick was given LBW in the 10th over for 28. When this was followed up by Ben Coe sportingly walking off after a fine edge behind first ball, the hosts would’ve felt they were back in the game with Thors 48-2.

The bowling was rotated before tea but Yelverton and the ever-present Pitt negotiated it comfortably enough, the highlight being a nonchalant pull shot from Yelverton as Penberthy attempted a bouncer. Thors 69-2 at tea.

After the break, Yelverton and Pitt took it upon themselves to take Thors swiftly closer to the target, dealing with any short balls and running well to put the pressure on. Eventually Yelverton (20) mis-hit a long hop to mid wicket but at 90-3 things still felt relatively comfortable. Any pressure was eased further when Choules got off the mark with a 4 through point which was followed up by proactive running as Pitt reached a well earned half century. Although, the opener would’ve been frustrated not to finish the job when he was caught 6 runs short of the target.

Daldorph had no interest in delaying the game any further when he struck a 4 and finished with a maximum to finish things off. 20 points for the visitors.

Scorecard

League Table

The skipper concluded:
“Great day for the club, winning 3 games out of 3 for the first time since we relaunched the 3s last year. We bowled and fielded excellently, pleasing to see the wickets shared around with Jops and Sam Hardwicke stepping up this week. A controlled but positive opening stand from Nick and Pitty meant we were always in control of the chase but pleased with all of the batters for digging in. The challenge is to build some momentum now.”

Looking to continue the form from the opening day, the 1st XI hosting Hatherleigh was: A.Pitt, L.Vukusic, A.Kingdon, S.Yelverton, H.Choules+, G.Daldorph, D.Robbins, S.Hardwicke, B.Slaviero, A.Jopling, J.Choules*.

With the sun out and the pitch looking hard, the skipper elected to bat at the toss. However, it was a tricky start for the hosts when Vukusic was given out caught behind and Kingdon wasn’t able to trouble the scorers on debut when he was adjudged LBW.

Yelverton and Pitt set about the rebuild with boundaries hard to come by thanks to good opening spells by the visitors. After seeing off the openers, Yelverton fell LBW to Presswell as the total reached 49-3 from 15.

Pitt was next to go not long after drinks for a patient 31 as the visitors focused on spin in the middle overs. The spread field allowed H. Choules and Daldorph to rebuild relatively comfortably whilst finding the boundary frequently enough, the score 86-4 at halfway.

The pair put on another 30 before Choules was caught behind for 31. Robbins joined Daldorph with 17 overs still to bowl and looked to time the ball well from the outset. They started to get on with things before Robbins was caught for a run a ball 22.

With the score 148-6 with 10 to go, the hosts would’ve hoped to reach 200 but the lower order struggled to hang around with Daldorph. Despite George passing his half century, wickets stemmed the run rate and by the time the skipper joined him for the last over, there was only one more boundary for George before being caught. Thors all out for 187.

After a generous Jopling tea, Slaviero and Daldorph began the defence, keen to build on last week’s display. The early signs were good when both picked up early wickets to leave Hatherleigh 7-2 from 3. Thors no doubt eager to remind their visitors of the 48 all out last season.

However, despite continuing to beat the bat, overseas professional Ghosh and skipper Cockwill weathered the storm well. Ghosh in particular using his feet to put the pressure back on the hosts. The change bowlers weren’t able to strike and by the 17 over drinks Hatherleigh were 76-2.

Daldorph was reintroduced at the Pavilion End after drinks and removed Cockwill to give Thors some hope, meanwhile the skipper kept it tight at the other end before a full toss dealt with Presswell. Hatherleigh 103-4 but Ghosh still in and going well, passing his half century.

Seamers were rotated from the Pavilion End while Robbins replaced the skipper as Thors desperately sought to remove the dangerman. It wasn’t to be though, and by the time Robbins had his wicket, the visitors were in striking distance. Ghosh brought up his hundred then hit the winning runs as Thors limped to 5 points.

Scorecard

League Table

Thanks to Alex Jopling and family in the kitchen, Jess in the scorebox and injured Freddie Fenner for capturing some fantastic photos of the game.

The 1s have a tough run of fixtures now with a visit to last year’s runners up next week before taking on the two sides relegated from the Premier Division.

---

Gallery

Thanks to Freddie Fenner for some great snaps of the game.

There were league debuts for University of Exeter students Sam Hardwicke & Nick Chaplin as the 1st XI made the trip to Torquay to take on newly promoted Barton. The team in full: A.Pitt, L.Vukusic, N.Chaplin, S.Yelverton, H.Choules+, G.Daldorph, D.Robbins, B.Heard, S.Hardwicke, B.Slaviero, J.Choules*.

Ex Abbotskerswell captain Nick Watkin won the toss for the hosts and put Thorverton into bat. Pitt and Vukusic got off to a good start, rotating the strike and finding the boundary with relative ease in the opening exchanges. Disaster struck in the 5th over when neither opener could deal with balls that kept low and Thors found themselves 33-2.

Chaplin got off the mark with a boundary before leaving a straight one, then Harry Choules came and went with the pitch now showing signs of misbehaviour at both ends. Hardwicke was promoted up the order to attempt a rebuild with Yelverton as the total reached 44-5 after 10.

Yelverton fell to the lowest ball so far when he was bowled after the powerplay which brought about Daldorph for the counter attack. He used his feet well to take the attack to the hosts and attempt to put the bowlers off their stride. However, wickets fell at the other end when Hardwicke was caught after drinks despite a patient effort, then Robbins went LBW first ball.

With the score 50-7 the writing seemed to be on the wall but George now started to get going despite Heard also coming and going at the other end. It looked like he might run out of partners but Slaviero had other ideas, the pair finding the boundary regularly in the middle overs. The duo put on 35 before George fell for 21 with the total on exactly 100.

The skipper joined Slaviero for the last wicket, showing his usual patience while Slaviero steadily accumulated at the other end. This was to the frustration of the hosts who aided the Thorverton cause with increased extras and loose balls. Slaviero showed no signs of jet lag after a month in Australia as he punished anything loose, staying patient otherwise. The partnership lasted six and a half overs before Slaviero (31) eventually fell LBW to another low ball but Thors felt in the game with a score of 130.

With 18 and a half overs unbowed, there was a swift turnaround with tea to be taken in 15 overs time. Thors knew early wickets would be key and after a steady start Needham holed out to Vukusic at cover to give Daldorph just that. Slaviero followed up next over when Watkin skied one to Heard at third man – a crucial wicket given the match winning knocks Watkin was known for in his Abbots days.

There was relief in Daldorph’s next over when opener Last was put down at mid wicket before succumbing LBW 2 balls later. Not to be outdone and seemingly cheered on by the Plainmoor drum, Slaviero had another big wicket when ex skipper Parker was cleaned up. Barton 19-4 and game on.

Eaves and the experienced Shelton showed patience as tea approached but the introduction of Yelverton gave Thors a 5th before the break. The score reaching 32-5 at tea.

The Barton patience didn’t last long after tea when Bowker had his head in the air and Yelverton made a mess of his stumps. Hardford joined the stubborn Shelton but Thors kept things tight as a few wicketless overs ticked by. It took a stunning one handed caught and bowled from Slaviero to break the partnership with the score now 46-7 and Barton on the brink.

Hardwicke had a deserved wicket next over before Barton reached the first batting point at the halfway stage. Sam had a taste for it now though and removed the Number 10 LBW in the 28th.

Thors had to be patient for the final wicket as the skipper rotated his bowlers trying to prize it. The Number 11 showed some attacking intent but perhaps unsurprisingly it was Slaviero (4-14) that cleaned him up in the end.

Scorecard

League Table

Thors win by 58 runs and are off the mark on the opening day. Thanks go to Jess Morrish in the scorebox and our hosts for the hospitality.

Next week the 1s have their first game at Station Ground when Hatherleigh are the visitors. A different sort of test on offer with Hatherleigh also winning on the opening day, chasing down 287.

After a washout against the university last week, pre season wrapped up with a double header against Bradninch & Kentisbeare.

The 1st XI travelling to the Premier Division Champions were: Andy Pitt, Sam Hardwicke, Jim Buckler, Shane Yelverton, Harry Choules+, George Daldorph, Dave Baldock, Freddie Fenner, Awrangzeb Khogiani, Alex Jopling, Jake Choules*.

With some rain present in the morning, the start was delayed until 13.30 but the match would still be 40 overs per side. After losing the toss, Thors were pleased to see George Daldorph running in comfortably down the hill following his injury struggles last season. Khogiani had the task of taking the new pink ball up the hill but the pair were able to keep things tight in the early exchanges. George was rewarded in his 3rd over with the prize wicket of Chappell who uncharacteristically let the early scoreboard pressure get to him.

Piper began to find the boundary towards the end of the 8 over powerplay which prompted the skipper into taking the pace off from one end with Jopling introduced. After 10 overs and the score at 27-1, Fenner was also introduced and once he shock off some debut nerves, began to beat the bat regularly. He was rewarded when Piper holed out Yelverton leaving B&K 44-2. Jopling took a deserved wicket a few overs later when Pugh also succumbed to the scoreboard pressure – Harry Choules making no mistake.

Yelverton and J. Choules were introduced either side of the drinks break with the total at 57-3. Hardy and Triner decided to get on with things after drinks and put the pressure back onto Thorverton with a couple of big overs. Eventually Hardy (35) skied one in Buckler’s first over which brought Kent to the crease. The new man supported Triner sensibly who continued to take the attack to Thors, albeit he was dropped a number of times and H. Choules came close to picking up his first stumping of the season as off-spinner Hardwicke caused problems on his debut.

Hardwicke & Khogiani were tasked with closing out the innings – a task made harder when Thors went down to 10 following a nasty broken thumb for Jim Buckler. Despite the numerical disadvantage, the run rate was stemmed when Triner retired on 50 with the total on 161-4. The final 5 overs were relatively uneventful although Khogiani and Hardwicke picked up deserved wickets – Sam having to wait until the final ball. B&K post 202-6.

Pitt and debutante Hardwicke set about the chase after a swift turnaround and looked solid in the early exchanges. A few looseners brought the score to 16-0 after 5. Pitt was able to move things along when Holmes was introduced, unaware of the openers strengths through the leg side. The 10th over bringing a four and a maximum before Holmes eventually had his man caught behind. Thors 45-1 and on track after 10.

With Buckler en route to A&E, the batting order was rejigged with Yelverton joining the solid Hardwicke. The pair continued to tick things along as the visitors looked comfortable. Shane timed the ball well from the outset and but for picking out the fielders, Thors could have got ahead of the game. However, by drinks the total was still 92-1, giving the visitors a more than solid platform.

The hosts showed their class after the break though with Devon Lions spinner Farley and skipper Chappell offering very little and backed up by a good standard of ground fielding. The overs began to tick by quickly when Hardwicke was stumped trying to move things along for a well made 31. Thors 111-2 with 15 to go.

Daldorph survived an early scare as B&K continued to keep things tight, leaving Thors needing 8 an over from the final 10. With wickets in hand, the two in the middle would’ve fancied their chances but progress was stalled when Yelverton (31) took one to the box before skying one 2 balls later. By the time H. Choules joined Daldorph, the equation was up to 10 an over but he took an instant liking to former county teammate Holmes, getting off the mark with 2 boundaries.

Daldorph got in on the act when he took 12 from an Acton over before Choules was caught and bowled by Hardy. 42 needed from 4 as Baldock joined Daldorph and despite semi-regular boundaries, 29 needed from the final over was always going to be a big ask. Hopes were lifted via a Baldock boundary first ball and a Daldorph (47*) maximum but ultimately B&K won by 13 runs. A respectable run out for the visitors ahead of the Devon League getting underway next week.

A huge thanks to Bob Rice in the scorebox and Paul Jordan who umpired both ends for 80 overs. Our thoughts are also with Jim Buckler who starts his recovery from a broken thumb.

The skipper concluded:
“A really valuable run out where I was able to learn a lot about the squad. Nearly everybody had a bowl against good opposition. Our ground fielding was excellent but some catching practice might be needed on Thursday. I think both sides showed the value of keeping wickets in hand, something I hope we can take into next week.”

I am excited to welcome everybody to another new season and pleased that once again the 1st XI will play in the A Division. I think I am right in saying it is the longest time we have spent at this level so well done to everybody involved in a successful period for the club.

Last season wasn’t without its challenges, however, with the 2s going down and the 1s finishing just 1 place above the relegation places. After a flying start, availability issues from the middle of the season made life hard work although I felt we were never in true danger of being relegated.

We have recruited fantastically well this winter to put this right and I hope it will also make life easier for my fellow captains. I am pleased to see the 3s continue and hope the 2s can bounce back with promotion. I won’t use up my word count by listing the signings but hope you soon have opportunity to be introduced at the bar. I’m sure those at the intra club match will agree that the new faces have been refreshing.

No doubt there will be some tough selection calls as a result but we will do our best to be as fair as possible, putting the best interests of the club first. In return, I would ask people to update their availability on Spond as early as possible to save us badgering you.

One signing I will name is the return of Shane Yelverton as our overseas. Shane is a genuine all rounder who had a good season with us in 2019 and has featured for the 2s when visiting the area more recently. I am really pleased to have him back and thank Becky Rice for doing the initial hosting. I’m sure Shane will be a great asset to the juniors as well as the seniors and I would encourage anybody to help out with the juniors so we can be sure they are getting the best possible coaching. Products of our junior system still play a big part in all of our senior sides.

I look forward to catching up with everybody over the summer – hopefully on a Saturday night after 60 points.

The 1st XI kick things off on 3rd May with a trip to Cricketfield Road to take on B Division runners up Barton.

We are pleased to announce the signing of Andy Kingdon from Stoke Gabriel CC. Andy is a left handed top order batter that has previously played Premier Division cricket for Bovey Tracey CC.

Andy has played little cricket in the last 2 seasons but struck 123 for Stoke Gabriel in 2021 and a high score of 131 in 2019. Playcricket records prior to digital scorecards are notoriously patchy, but show Kingdon as striking nearly 3000 league runs at an impressive average of 46. 1st XI captain Jake Choules commented:

“Really pleased to have signed Andy who I have been working on for a couple of seasons since learning that he moved to the area. An extra top order bat and additional left hander has been top of the wish list for some time which makes this even more pleasing. Looking forward to see Andy alongside all of the other new signings in our fast approaching pre season games.”

Mike Nunns and Luke Wilson have also committed to Thors in recent weeks as the latest duo to move over from Exwick. Mike struck an impressive 398 runs last season. Luke’s experience captaining the side at Exwick is also sure to be a helpful asset to the club.

Andy, Mike and Luke are all available to sponsor for the season for £30. Please get in touch if you would like to sponsor one of them.

Thorverton CC are pleased to have signed Sam Hardwicke ahead of the 2025 season.

Sam is the second University of Exeter student to join this year following the signing of Mahir Choksi – both are expected to be available for the first part of the season before returning home after their studies.

Sam is a top order batter and off spinner that usually plays his cricket in Sussex for Cuckfield CC. Whilst the youngster’s stand out performances to date have been for Cuckfield’s 2nd and 3rd XIs, he made regular appearances for the 1st XI last summer in the Sussex Premier Division.

Jake Choules said:

“Really pleased to have signed Sam who will join Mahir in easing availability issues at the start of the season. It’s more than handy to have another young player in the squad and look forward to seeing what he can do at nets in 2 weeks time.

I’d like to thank Tom Prismall of Ottery CC/Exeter Uni who is doing a great job at linking students up with clubs.”

As a club we want to engage as much of the community as we can and provide cricket for all ages and abilities. As part of this we would like to offer walking cricket at the club in 2025. We would like to hear from people who are interested in participating and particularly anyone who would be interested in helping get this off the ground.

Please fill out our Google Form here so we can gage interest:- https://forms.gle/B4redUaMKL1H2xrs5

What is Walking Cricket?

Walking Cricket is a low-impact version of traditional cricket designed to accommodate players of all ages and abilities, especially older adults or those with reduced mobility.

True to its name, running is not required; players walk to score runs and move between positions. The game retains the essence of cricket, including batting, bowling, and fielding, but with simplified rules and a slower pace to ensure inclusivity and enjoyment for everyone.

Developed as part of efforts to promote physical activity among individuals who may find conventional sports too strenuous, Walking Cricket is becoming increasingly popular across the UK and beyond.

With its focus on fun, fitness, and camaraderie, the sport fosters an inclusive environment where participants can enjoy the thrill of the game without overexertion.

How does it work?

The rules of Walking Cricket are adapted to suit players’ abilities while maintaining the core of the sport:

• No Running: All movement is limited to walking, whether between wickets or fielding.
• Shorter Matches: Matches are typically shorter, lasting an hour or two, making them more manageable.
• Modified Equipment: Softer balls and lightweight bats are often used to reduce the risk of injury.
• Smaller Teams: Teams are usually smaller, accommodating fewer players on the pitch.
• Inclusive Rules: Flexibility is key, allowing players of different fitness levels to participate.

Health Benefits

Walking Cricket is more than just a game, it’s a pathway to better health. Here are some of the key benefits:

Physical Fitness

Walking Cricket promotes cardiovascular health, muscle tone, and overall physical fitness. The moderate intensity of the sport is particularly beneficial for improving balance, flexibility, and endurance without putting excessive strain on the body.

Improved Mental Wellbeing

Engaging in a fun and social activity like Walking Cricket can reduce stress, anxiety, and depression. The game encourages focus, strategic thinking, and teamwork, stimulating cognitive functions and elevating mood.

Social Connections

Isolation can be a challenge for older adults. Walking Cricket creates opportunities for people to connect, make friends, and share experiences. The inclusive nature of the sport ensures that everyone feels welcomed and valued.

Low Impact on Joints

Unlike high-impact sports, Walking Cricket is gentle on the joints, making it suitable for individuals with arthritis or similar conditions. It allows for safe, consistent movement without risk of injury.

Boosts Confidence and Independence

Participating in a structured activity like Walking Cricket can enhance self-esteem and encourage a sense of independence, especially for those who may feel limited by health conditions or mobility issues.

Why try walking cricket?

Walking Cricket is perfect for anyone looking to stay active while enjoying a friendly, competitive sport. It’s an excellent way to re-engage with a love for cricket or discover a new passion in a supportive environment. With its flexibility and adaptability, Walking Cricket is proof that age or ability needn’t be a barrier to enjoying sports and staying healthy.

Thorverton CC are excited to announce the signing of young top order batter, Mahir Choksi.

Mahir is a student at the University of Exeter who has previously played at Amersham CC in the Home Counties Premier Cricket League. The 20 year old is expected to make up part of the 1st XI squad and will be available for the first part of the season before returning home after his studies. Mahir’s cricketing highlights include scoring 90 for Amersham 1st XI in 2022 and a couple of half centuries last summer. Mahir also has experience wicket keeping so will provide useful back up with the gloves where required.

Thors have had a busy winter, already announcing 3 new signings; Shane Yelverton, Freddie Fenner & Awrangzeb Khogiani prior to Christmas. In addition, we can also now announce the signings of a further trio of players from Exwick CC. Rudi Ellis and Dan Pooley impressed with bat and ball at indoor net sessions over Christmas and are expected to add great depth to the squads. Rudi and Dan will be joined by Shakib Rahmani who comes with a reputation as an exciting bowler, taking two 4 wicket hauls for Exwick last term.

1st XI captain Jake Choules commented:
“With the availability struggles last season, it has been important to add depth and competition for places to all 3 squads. I have been impressed with the quality of the new signings so far and fully expect the 2nd XI to be challenging for promotion straight back to the D Division.”

“In terms of the 1s, we have been looking for a top order bat as well as some cover for the start of the season when a number of our players have school and uni cricket. Mahir seems to kill 2 birds with 1 stone so I am excited to see what he can do in pre season.”

Thorverton Cricket Club were deeply saddened to learn that our former member and friend Simon Gray has passed away.

Simon, his brother Adrian and nephew Paddy, were products of our junior section that went on to play in the senior teams. Simon’s father Mike was our first honorary Life Member.

Dedicated to cricket and country ways, Simon was a driving force at Broadclyst CC while always remaining a good friend of Thorverton CC. Always a welcome guest at Thorverton, Simon continued to support the club in many ways and he will be missed.

Our thoughts are with the Gray family and our friends at Broadclyst CC at this sad time.