Energy Exiles produced a far improved overall performance to last weeks debacle, but were denied victory at the death in a classic at Cottenham Park against old foes Agricola.

Agricola batted first and powered their way to 235 for 4 off their 40 overs – with 100 runs off the last 10 overs.

Exiles’ reply was astonishing – in so many ways. Captain John Tither (140) decided he’s a better player than a number 8 and opened with Mark Bradshaw (67) in a fabulous and club record-breaking partnership – for all wickets – of 212. But when the skipper was finally bowled – beating Jon Taylors’ near 10 year hold on the individual innings club record highest score – Exiles lost momentum and wickets, agonisingly failing to win the game and having to settle for a tie, as Agricola’s bowling improved right at the end.

A stunning game of cricket that Exiles will rue not winning – but a memorable game of cricket none-the-less.

Not pleasant reading this for Exiles fans… as a 9 man Exiles side was given a 10 wicket thumping by an on-form looking Cypos side.

Exiles batted first and with the ball swinging and seaming all over the shop, could only scramble 91 all out – 2 balls short of batting their entire 40 overs – with only the returning Mark Bradshaw (32) offering significant resistance.

In reply, the hard-hitting Cypos openers won in record time – as the Exiles bowlers struggled with the increasingly slippery ball and treacherous footing.

Lucky it’s a big derby game against Agricola next weekend for the club to hopefully put up a much better showing….

Energy Exiles started the 2013 season with a decent 29 run victory over the Clapham Nomads at Barn Elms.

Put into bat, the Exiles openers of Will Clephane – on debut – and Will Kent – compiled a stand of 103 in 22 overs to lay the foundation of the Exiles innings, with both openers passing 50. Cameos from Jasper Searle (24) and Marcin Zieleniewski (20no) ensured the Exiles innings closed on a slightly above par 181 for 5.

In response, Andy Wingfield (4 for 22) struck twice early and in truth Nomads were always behind, despite a fine effort by their debutant Aussie who made 82 not out. Nomads closed on 152 for 6, with credit due to the Exiles part time bowlers who shared a much greater responsibility than usual.

A very promising start to the season, and next up are CYPOS at Raynes Park.

Nets for Exiles’ 2013 pre-season strength & conditioning are at Lords at the following times & dates:

• Tuesday 5 February – 7-8pm – 1 net
• Tuesday 12 February – 7-8pm – 1 net
• Tuesday 19 February – 7-8pm – 1 net
• Tuesday 26 February – 7-8pm – 1 net
• Tuesday 5 March – 7-8pm – 1 net
• Tuesday 12 March – 7-8pm – 1 net
• Tuesday 19 March – 7-8pm – 1 net
• Tuesday 26 March – 7-8pm – 1 net
• Tuesday 9 April – 7-8pm – 2 nets
• Tuesday 16 April – 7-8pm – 1 net

If interested in attending, please contact Phil Ling…