Second Round Preview

the second round of the Nicholson Cricketer Cup will be played this Sunday 25 June. At the top of the draw the holders, Bradfield Waifs, continue to enjoy home advantage and host Stowe Templars, who just squeezed home against Felsted Robins on DLS in a rain-affected match. Old Tonbridgians host Old Bedfordians after big wins for both in the first round. This is an old rivalry as their respective schools still play one of the last surviving two-day matches.

In the second quarter Old Millfieldians host Old Cheltonians, and Shrewsbury Saracens travel to Eton to play the Ramblers. All four are strong teams in the context of the competition and much will depend on availability of key players.

In the third quarter Old Cliftonians make a long journey to Uppingham to play the Rovers, who had a surprisingly easy win at Rugby in the first round. The winners of this will host either Old Malvernians or Old Wykehamists, both past winners of the Cricketer Cup, although Winchester have to go back to 1982 for their last win, perhaps prophetically against Malvern. In the bottom quarter Oundle Rovers host St. Edward’s Martyrs, and Repton Pilgrims travel to Wellington.

Let us hope for a fine weekend from Millfield to Uppingham and some great cricket.