Exiles were well beaten by Southern Railway & Kenley cricket club in the lovely surrounds of the local ground next to Kenley station.

On losing the toss, Exiles were fielding on a sunny day and both SRK openers played well to bring up their 50’s. In fact one of the openers – Prior – cruised to a very good hundred before retiring.

After an impressive, but ultimately unlucky, 8 over spell of leg-spin from debutant Mohammad Islam, it was youngster Ryan Freemantle – also on debut – who broke through with a well-taken catch by Barry Whiteman at mid-on. Freemantle and fellow youngster George Poole (2 for 38) proved the most successful Exiles bowlers as, despite a late strike by Jeff Hilson on his Exiles return, SRK powered their way to 244 for 6 off their 40 overs.

Exiles’ reply got off to an decent start before Mark Bradshaw (13) and Barry Whiteman (37) fell in quick succession as Exiles slipped from 45 for 0 to 66 for 5 in no time. Islam (69) was joined by Andy Wingfield (27) in a partnership of 55 and after Wingfield fell, Hilson soon followed – dismissed LBW, much to his chagrin. The remaining wickets were snaffled quickly and Exiles finished on 156 all out.

An enjoyable afternoon and a fixture the Exiles will surely look to resurrect soon. Next up are Surbiton Imperials at the Joseph Hood recreation ground.