Outperforming expectations, Swanage Cricket Club’s first team clinched the runners up trophy in Dorset’s Division One League in its final match against Beaminster.
The end of season win, meant a ‘Magnificent Seven’ victories in-a-row, securing a stunning 133 points out of 140 in their Division One matches.
With plenty to celebrate, the presentation awards night took place at a dinner event at the club’s pavilion in Days Park on Saturday 4th September 2021.
Chairman, and top run scorer for the firsts, Craig Wells said:
“It has been a great season for the club with teams exceeding expectations. To finish second in Division One shows we have the potential to get back in the Dorset Premier League in the near future.”
First team captain Ben Hodder
“Above expectations”
Ben Hodder, in his first season as captain, was top wicket taker (26) and second highest run scorer (439). He said:
“It’s been fantastic. We sat down at the beginning of the season and discussed what we expected to achieve.
“I’m pleased to say, not just in terms of results, but in terms of seeing players develop, we’ve done above expectations. Blokes stepped up and really proved themselves.”
The apprentice boatbuilder, previously from Wiltshire, added:
“I didn’t really know what to expect but it’s nice to have a lot of players who have been around for a long time. They were very patient and I’ve had nothing but kind words from people.”
Presentations to the youth players
Mike Hernandez and Ryan Stearn bowling
In the final match, having elected to bat first, Beaminster were soon in deep trouble against some outstanding seam bowling by Mike Hernandez and Ryan Stearn, who both claimed three wickets.
For the batting, Freddie Long and Ben Hodder had a 40-run partnership. When Freddie was dismissed for 25, Ben was joined by the side’s other leading all-rounder Steve Kent. They batted brilliantly to achieve a match-winning half-century stand.
Club president Peter Clark (left) presents batsman of the year award to Craig Wells (right)
Mike Hernandez (left) is awarded best century in 2020 award
Phil Eades (right) is presented with the fielder of the year award
Good delivery for second and third teams
The second eleven recorded a stunning victory over the champions Cattistock at Days Park in Division Four.
The batting included an exceptional century partnership between Mike Wells and Simon Goldsack. The team finished a respectable fifth in the division.
The third team, meanwhile, continued with their policy of giving youngsters a chance with four Under 13s featuring in the game.
Batting first Pete Barker put together an excellent partnership of 48 with Sam Wells who made his highest adult score so far.
Although they ended the season with a defeat, it meant more experience in the adult game for Swanage’s up-and-coming players.
More award winners – Ryan Stearn (right) receives award for bowler of the year
Mike Nash (left) receives award for a near century
Craig Wells (Right) receives awards for best century in 2021
“Making an impact”
Youth coordinator Tim Ives said:
“It has been great to see so many of the players who have come up through our youth system now making an impact in adult cricket. It was a pleasure to play in the same matches as these players as they begin the next phase of their cricketing career.”
Ben said:
“I’ve really enjoyed my first year as first team captain and from where I’m looking the future is bright.”
