Mike continues to defy both time and the ageing process to continue to be a key batsman in the first team.  After a slow start to the year where slow 20s were not converted into bigger scores, many thought that Mike’s days were numbered as a first-teamer, but a series of match-winning knocks later in the year have demonstrated such thoughts to be very premature.  Only Guy Haynes scored more runs than Mike this year.  His fielding does increasingly resemble Phil Tufnell’s early days (minus the pace), but his equable demeanour, stubbornness in adversity and determination have won several games last year, and such qualities will be in demand next year too.  As a footnote, Mike is the club’s groundsman, and he has performed miracles on Edgworth’s square over the past twelve months.

Best moments:  A fantastic 60 to defy a rampant Alfredi at Daisy Hill.  Despite a barrage of toe-crushing Yorkers, Mike stood firm to play one of the best match-winning innings of the year.  A special mention also for the magnificent straight six at Atherton off their Middlesex-bound professional, Yogi Golwalkar; sheer poetry.

Worst moments:  Being run out against Elton at home.  A well-timed shot cannoned off the bowler’s foot onto the stumps.  Being hit on the ankle by Alfredi during the home fixture, resulting in serious pain – and being given out lbw.