Things didn't go to plan for the skipper as he lost the toss and we were asked to bat on a pitch that had been greened by heavy overnight rain.

Mr Bell got stuck right in from the off and smashed early runs to get the scoreboard rolling. The highlight of which was a glorious straight drive along the flour for four. Unfortunately though as a 50 looked a formality he was undone by a near jaffa that grazed the off bail.

Shell came in with purpose and the entertainment factor continued as he accumulated runs very quickly until disaster struck.

A mid order collapse then ensued with 4 quick wickets being lost for not that many. As now seems usual Mike observed the carnage powerless from the other end.

Then though, Jim and Mike got together and the recovery process began in earnest. It started with a steady approach and culminated with some great run scoring shots to nudge the run rate to well over 4 an over. Gareth, Mat and Stephen continued the good work to post a very good 202.

Tea was a splendid affair with probably the best array of home-made cakes that we have ever seen.

The Rosaneri opening bowlers delivered wickets in the early exchanges of the Thaxted innings and before too many overs in became apparent that injuries too star batsmen were going to lead to an away victory.

In the end the Thaxted “Main man” had to retire hurt and the game was effectively over.

The Rosaneri spinners twisted and twirled to bring an early conclusion to proceedings with the star turn being Bonehead. He even managed to bowl the Warne to Gatting delivery when bowling a batsman round his legs.

This turned out to be a procession, but a fully fit home side could easily have seen a completely different result.

Another great day out, and a good lift in the batting form heading towards the Cotswolds clash.