SHRIVENHAM 2nd captain Martin Hammond was rueing his side’s chronic availability after seeing them bowled out for just nine runs in their OCA League Division 6 match at home to Faringdon 2nd.

“We had only nine players and three of those were under 14, two of whom were playing their first adult game,” explained Hammond.

The skipper had to register two lads the night before, otherwise the team would have had only seven players.

“At one stage, we did think of calling the game off, but that would have seen us docked 20 league points and fined £25. At least, we avoided that, but it was not a nice experience.”

It’s not as though the side have been struggling.

Before Saturday’s game, Shrivenham were third in the table – another reason not wanting to lose points.

“We have 55 registered players in all – it was just a freak day, with several attending the Lord’s Test,” explained Hammond.

The innings lasted ten overs, with Faringdon bowlers Alan Johnson taking 5-5 and Richard Marlow 3-4.

The visitors knocked off the runs without loss in seven balls and the game was over by 2.30pm.

“The one good thing about the early finish that we were able to cancel the teas in time, before trooping off home,” said Hammond.

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