At just 14 years of age the younger, and more gifted Older, has had a great season at Woodham . In the 24 matches this season alone Joel has managed to get 24 wickets (almost a wicket a game) leading him to break into the 2nd team and T20 as one of the main strike bowlers. Bravo, welcome to the wonderful world of village cricket! Good lad our Joel. This chap is as quiet as a mouse though! I mean there was a time we all had a bet that he was actually a mute. Turns out he can actually speak fine. He just doesn’t like anyone at the club – and that’s something I can relate to! Absolute headache for umpires though this non-speaking malarkey, as when the little non-whispering death runs up to bowl he doesn’t even cry for an appeal. Mind you LBW’s are a rarity with our Joel who usually finds himself taking the stumps right out of the ground with an absolute jaffa. With best figures of 4-23 against Goresbrook 3’s in 2016 this kid is a talent indeed. And, much like his father can indeed swing a bat when he wants to. Although, I’m certain with much more grace and power than his dad uses – as even Joel can hit it off the square… which reminds me – I miss terrier cricket.
Joel’s too cool like that – and if you wanted any proof just look at that hairstyle. Screams something like ‘no sods given’. Like a majestic wave of gel. I like it. Wish I had that when I was a nipper instead of the already receding hairline when I was growing up. And those eyes! Quite scary aren’t they? The sort of eyes that are looking at you thinking “I’ll give you one ball to try and get off the mark, but by the next ball I’ll pin you up against the sodding sight-screen.” I bet those are the same eyes that come out when he misses the cartoons in the morning. I wouldn’t want to be around him if that happens. And another thing. What are they feeding kids these days, Ready-brek mixed with some form of testosterone steroid? I mean this geezer is nearly as tall as Steve Richardson, although I must admit that isn’t hard as Steve lives inside a matchbox. God knows. Whatever your father Sam is feeding you, lap it up! We look forward to seeing you pin many a batsman up against the sight-screens in years to come.