The First Eleven-Review
Considering that we had so young a side, the 1963 season was an extraordinarily successful one. The first nine matches were won and the surprising pre-season pessimism was replaced by an over bearing optimism and the word "invincible" became almost the dressing-room password. It was not until Southend had come and inflicted an unforgettable thrashing on us that the lst XI could be seen in its true perspective: good enough to better any team but the top few. The school batting was strong and deep; the side was only all out seven times. The bowling attack was not often complete, nor was it well balanced, but it was above average. The ground fielding was good and half as many catches were put down as in the previous season.
There were many highlights: a last-over win against Leyton, a last-ball victory against Chingford, another fine win over Palmers and a nearly successful knock of 162 for 2 against the Old Boys team which included Graham Saville, two hat-tricks by King and a century from Brett.
I should like to thank Mr. Chambers for the time he spent with the lst XI and Mr. Birkby, Mr. Hobson, Mr. Groom, Mr. James, and all other masters who gave up valuable time to umpire cricket teams.
D.C. Jolly.