The 3's were backing a new skipper on Saturday in Kevin Punter, who has taken on the role in Jim's absence.
On an amazingly blustery day over at the Nevil, Kev won his first toss and inserted the opposition. Joe Westlake opened the bowling with Kevin and Joe had immediate success. Joe bowled superbly all day and was rewarded with his for 5 wicket haul. He produced excellent figures of 5 for 28 off 10 overs of which 7 were very much into the wind. You could see that the 3rd's have plenty of ability but at present just lack a little confidence in everyone's own ability. Kev brought the chaps together very well which was demonstrated by having Brighton go from 140 odd for two to 8 down at the end and only 201 on the board, there was belief in the field, catches started to be taken and even R Cool followed that by having a direct hit run out. Confidence in the field was returning. We felt this was very gettable, all we needed was partnerships. The batting started very cautiously which seemed to show the confidence bit. The innings never really got going and regular wickets kept falling. After a patient start Lloyd Crathern showed his ability by playing some great drives and placement. The whole batting just seemed to lack confidence. the ability is VERY much there. Having never batted with Lloyd before it was clear he has plenty of ability just needed the belief. Everyone has the ability in the team. Results will come I have no doubt. The confidence will return. Kevin led the team well, focusing on the team ethic, supporting each other. Even being at the other end of the ground all the players were there to watch and contribute to the game. Although the scores didnt reflect it, the 3's are very close to winning. You'd be more worried if anyone felt we were not good enough but we very much are good enough. Form is one ball away, its one wicket, one catch, one boundary away. everyone in the team has the ability we just need the belief we can deliver. If Kev keeps the ethics going it will come. Two wins would put the 3rd's mid table so there is plenty to be hopeful about.
In the meantime Lloyd carried on what he did last year whenI couldn't play, WIN. He needs to believe he can do that week in week out as he does win n a regular basis. Adam B continues to impress with the ball as he took a well deserved 5 wickets to demolish the Brighton innings for 77. Worthing made light work of the total in getting to another 30 points consolidating the position at the top of the league. If selected the Cool's can come back and support the teams continued development. It is a good time at present for the club with 4 teams top of their divisions and the 3rd's ready to launch forward. This year we must have have high hopes. Teams are winning, junior's are performing throughout the club so its a good time.
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