Banstead Cricket Club's 4th XI won the Surrey Championship Central Division League at only the second attempt in emphatic style losing only one of their 18 games.
They recorded emphatic wins most weeks using a combination of seasoned league cricketers and the clubs up and coming Colts. This mix of experience and youthful enthusiasm saw them record 14 wins, 2 draws and only one defeat with one game abandoned due to the weather.
The batting centred around Ian Estall who scored 465 runs at an average of 66 and Seb Pearce, 379 runs at an average of 38, both of whom were in great form all year. They were well supported by Dave Sowe who scored 271 runs averaging 30. The bowling was even stronger and Banstead bowled many sides out for low scores. Alex Wood was outstanding with 31 wickets at an average of 14 and Alan Lester rolled back the years 'again' with 17 wickets at an average of 9. The fielding was often brilliant and Dave Sowe, in excellent form all year behind the stumps, was responsible for 21 dismissals.
Skipper Alan Hunwick thanked all who played and contributed to an unforgettable year and gave a big thank you to Cheryl Estall for scoring so efficiently and accurately throughout the season.
Next season the side will play in the 4th XI Premiership and Banstead are now looking to recruit players at all levels of ability to join their four Saturday sides for next season in order to realise promotion for their 1st and 2nd XIs and to chase Premiership glory for the 3rd and 4th XIs. Contact The Membership Secretary on 01737 370957 to register interest.
