The clouds rolled back, the scene was set, the players were looking forward to putting their meticulous pre-season preparation to the test – and much of the opening Southern Premier Cricket League campaign was scotched by waterlogged grounds. 

Fair Oak’s scheduled visit to Langley Manor was one such casualty, but the club’s 2nd XI, who will be competing in Hampshire League Division 2 this season, enjoyed a good workout in a friendly at Chawton. 

On a remarkably good pitch, Oaks batted first. James Featherstone had the satisfaction of smashing the first ball he received in 2024 over midwicket for six, but soon fell to Chawton’s star bowler Jake Channon. The home skipper took 3 for 11 to leave Fair Oak in some trouble at 50 for 4.

Oaks’ recovery was engineered by the experienced James Gradwell and newcomer Kannan Manoj. Manoj, a close-season acquisition from United Services, powered his way to 69 while Gradwell hit 75. Their rapid acceleration against the toiling Chawton change bowlers helped Fair Oak to a more-than-healthy 256 for 7 from their agreed 40 overs.

Chawton’s philosophy with the bat is very much to live by the sword. They set off at a terrific rate, but consistent bowling from the Oaks bowlers brought wickets regularly. New skipper Jake Salmon juggled his attack cleverly, trying to give all the bowlers a chance. Joeh Turner was the pick with three wickets, while Nick Bass, Manoj and Phil Smith also impressed. Manoj also held two fine catches as the hosts were skittled for just 90 to give Oaks a convincing win.

The day’s unsung hero, though, was Chawton groundsman Martin Skilton, who did a fantastic job getting the ground up to scratch in challenging circumstances.

Next week Oaks will be hoping to get all five of their men’s senior teams in action – weather, of course, permitting.