Five brave and dedicated players turned up for the Wednesday night net session amid scenes that Noah must have experienced before the Ark set sail.

The rain lashed down as Mark Cox the nervous and inexperienced batsman took guard and awaited his first ball. But it soon became very clear to the bowlers that this was not the old Mark Cox, this was a new foot moving, confident batsman who played beautifully without ever looking like getting out.

At the end of his batting session the sun burst through the clouds, and the birth and baptism of a batting talent had been symbolically honoured by a higher power. The sunshine represented hope for all players struggling with confidence and advertised the fact that the net sessions can make a difference.

Mark spoke afterwards that he had watched Andy Underwood’s batting coaching video clips over and over again. The results were magnificent and Mark must be congratulated on his determination to improve.

We appreciate that some players have struggled with the 7pm start at Hoddesdon, but hopefully after everyone had an opportunity to suggest alternatives, more will be able to turn up for next weeks proposed move to Hatfield for a 9pm start.