Claygate 1st XI started the new season with a friendly at home to Esher 3rd XI (23rd April).
With rain in the week it was always going to be a sticky wicket, but both clubs were grateful for the outing. Skipper Ashley Thorpe did the first thing right - won the toss & electing to bat.

Jamie Henderson and Damian Ross found it difficult to score against the new ball and both openers where dismissed cheaply which brought Chris Howe and Charlie Machin to the crease. Howe raced to 75 within the first 10 overs finally retiring on 100* and putting on a 3rd wicket stand of 150. Machin ran out skipper Ashley Thorpe for 2, but made up by scoring freely - also retiring on 85*. Claygate were bowled out for a fine early season total of 325.

Rajindu Rodrigo (2/10) and Luke Webb (1/14) took the new ball and managed early breakthroughs. Wickets fell regularly with Sanjeeva Wijetunja (1/13) and Anthony De Silva (3/14) whilst Rajindu Rodrigo cleaned up the tail with figures of 4/10. Esher made only 98 and a convincing Claygate victory after 32 overs. So a great start to the season