CRICKET AND THE WAR

Taranaki Daily News, 26 September 1940, Page 4

CRICKET AND THE WAR

STRATFORD CLUB'S YEAR "Owing to a depleted membership caused to a great extent by members enlisting in the armed forces, only one team was enfered in the southern division competitions in the 1939-40 season, ' states the report to be presented by the prcsident, Mr. M. Beere, to the annual meeting of the Stratford Cricket Club to-night. "The senior A team was a particularly strong batting side and came through the first round without a loss, but sustained several defeats during the second half of the season, and was able to finish only in fourth place on the championship ladder. All engagements were fulfilled, however, despite much inclement weather and many postponements. "H. Barker was the winner of the bat presented by Mr. W. J. Polson, M.P., for the most successful batsman. Barker, who secured an average of 50.4 runs an innings, took part in two representative matches played by the Taranaki team, and on the occasion of the game with Auckland he captained the Taranaki side. "Players selected in the South Taranaki side were H. Barker, P. Kivell, M. Beere, R. Collins, F. Richgrdson and P. Lansdowne. "The club is in a sound ftnancial position, commencing with a credit balance of 8s 8d and finish ing with 6s 8d. The assets are valued at £17 18s lld, a conservative estimate. "Players serving with the armed forces are Messrs. H. Barker, C. Faulkner, W. Tocker, J. Hunter, M. Gray, P. Bowes and F. Richardson. The club is again indebted to Messrs. Blanchard and Foley for assistance and advice in the preparation of wickets. Congratulations are offered to Okaiawa and Old Collegians on winning the respective southern competitions. "This report would not be complete withoUt reference to the members of the Umpires' -Association for the excellent services they rendered, and the Press."