So 2012 ends at it began, a record breaking summer for all the wrong reasons – the wettest second quarter, the wettest June and the gloomiest summer since at least 1912 – with another match abandoned to the rain. The twelve games completed, however, produced some fabulous cricket, with 6 victories, 5 draws and only one defeat at Nonington. Victories at Bishopsbourne and against Wickham and Stodmarsh at Goodnestone were emphatic. Hugo engineered a first victory at Provender to much acclaim.
Congratulations to centurions Archie and Theo, and to Harry P and Simon for 6 for and 5 for respectively. Catching and fielding were at a level rare in the Straggler past, and went a long way to support the bowlers. 50 outfield catches were held in 12 games, with Archie, Hugo and Jack leading the way. The Stragglers continue to breed wicket keepers, with six accomplished glove men successful, and Blair, Theo and Justin prominent.
Allports, pere et fils, top the averages in a very competitive season. Some research will be required to find out if it is a Straggler family first. Theo put the batting beyond doubt with his century at Otterden, with a total of 378 runs at an average of 47.25. Simon pipped a number of contenders, most of whom would have been in action at Hollingbourne, with 20 wickets at 13.60.
