St.Cross Symondians Cricket Club - Formed 1992
St.Cross Symondians CC Review 2001 (written by Andy Sharp)
A successful and enjoyable season saw St Cross finish in third place, narrowly missing out on
automatic promotion to SPL2. The young and predominately home-grown side suffered only three
defeats all season, surprisingly all at home and all before the end of June.
However, after a heavy defeat at the hands of Paultons the side bounced back in emphatic style,
turning in some powerful performances to remain unbeaten for the remainder of the season.
Bowling and fielding was once again of a high standard. Bryan Lipscombe led the way for the
second year, finishing with 28 wickets at an average of 15.50, including a divisional best
return of 7-42 in the comprehensive victory over Hook and Newnham Basics. Skipper Matt Perry-Lewis
also figured prominently in the averages with 26 wickets at 14.42, whilst Stuart Charman (21
wickets at 18.00) and James Adams (19 wickets at 14.05) also bowled consistently well.
The bowlers were well supported by some impressive fielding performances, notably from Mark
Parker with 12 catches and Graham Barrett with nine.
The batting, so often an Achilles heel, proved far more consistent. Kiwi Mark Parker, in his
second and final year with the Club, headed the averages with 465 runs at 46.50. Graham Barrett
closely followed him with 423 runs at 47.00 whilst opener Marc Rees, with 316 runs at 26.33,
grew in confidence as the season progressed and was arguably the most improved player.
The senior member of the side, Steve Postle, also had a good season and played a key role,
averaging over 40, often scoring vital runs at the end of an innings. Off the field, the Club
had a busy but productive year, implementing the first phase of an ambitious 5 year Development
Plan.
Gold accreditation was achieved by the junior section, just reward for its hard working and
dedicated band of coaches. Temporary umpires changing facilities and double sight screens have
been provided, whilst the most significant development has seen the Club reach agreement with
its landlords, the Royal Green Jackets, enabling all 1st XI matches for 2002 and beyond to be
played on the main square at St Cross Road.