Thatcham captain Michael Klichowicz reflects on positive start in Thames Valley Cricket League
Thatcham Cricket Club captain Michael Klichowicz has reflected on his side’s start to the season.
They currently sit fifth in the Thames Valley Cricket League Division 3A.
This is the South African’s first season as captain, which has understandably been a learning curve so far.
“I’m really enjoying it,” he said.
“It’s definitely been tough, and there are a lot of challenges that you don’t expect.
“There are so many things that I didn’t expect, but I’m enjoying the challenges and learning a lot.
“I’ve learned so much in the last two months it’s ridiculous!”
A record of three wins, two draws and three losses has been a mixed start to the season.
Thatcham wanted to be fighting for a top three spot, which was the goal at the start of the summer.
But Klichowicz believes that the side could easily be higher up the table, and that their performances have deserved slightly more.
“I think we definitely deserve a lot more,” Klichowicz admitted.
“If a couple of results had gone in our favour we’d be sitting top four, knocking on third’s door.
“It’s been tough and we haven’t won many tosses, which makes it more of an uphill battle.
“But I think the boys have played so well at the start of the season.
“We could definitely be higher up if a few things had gone our way.
“But saying that, we’re still not far off fourth place.
“It’s so tight this year. Between eighth and fourth there’s half a result in it.”
Thatcham are a side which can score runs against anybody and take wickets at big moments.
The skipper credited some standout performers so far, who have stepped up for big moments.
Jack Young is one example, sitting third in the batting charts with 358 runs scored from his nine appearances.
Meanwhile Chris Bird has led the way with the ball by taking 23 wickets so far this season, making him the most dangerous bowler in the division.
“Jack and Chris are definitely strong performers,” he reflected.
“Those are the two players who we look to, they’ve always been reliable options.
“But there have been so many good contributions all round.
“Odhinn Moore bowled really well against Falkland.
“Ben Denton-Powell has batted well, and Harley Sheridan-Hawkins has been superb with the bat.
“Simon Lewis contributed a lot of runs early on.
“Everyone has contributed, which is nice.
“Different players have turned up in different games, which is ideal.”
Thatcham don’t have far to travel for their next fixture, as they face high flying Purley on Thames on Saturday in what is sure to be a stern test.
Klichowicz is maintaining a positive attitude, not focussing on the table and instead encouraging Thatcham to enjoy their cricket.
“You have to get the guys all in a similar mindset,” he said.
“So I try to avoid focusing on the table.
“I want us to enjoy every minute of the game and make sure we enjoy our Saturdays.
“Good energy in the field, smiles on faces, good vibes.”
