Hoddesdon Cricket Club’s prestigious ‘Green Jacket’ award has a new name stitched into its summer story — and this week it’s Dan Hawkins, who stepped up from his usual role as 3rd XI Saracens captain to deliver a standout performance for the 2nd XI in their crucial HPCL Division 4A relegation fight.

Hawkins, a mainstay of Hoddesdon’s leadership team, was called into Adrian Lee’s 2nd XI for Saturday’s away clash at Kings Langley CC — a tough assignment against a strong side sitting mid-table. While the match ultimately ended in disappointment for Hoddesdon, with the hosts claiming a 97-run victory after posting 299 all out, Hawkins’ innings was one of the brightest moments of the day.

Coming in during the middle overs with the chase already a daunting task, Hawkins showed exactly why he’s held in such high regard around Lowfield. Blending patience with controlled aggression, he stroked 68 not out from 81 balls, including eight boundaries, refusing to let the Kings Langley bowlers dictate the terms. His knock held the tail together and added a degree of respectability to Hoddesdon’s final total of 202 all out in 44.5 overs.

It was a display of technical skill and mental grit — especially impressive given that Hawkins hadn’t been playing at 2nd XI level this season. His unbeaten innings was a timely reminder of his quality and adaptability, offering his side a fighting chance against a formidable target.

Beating Strong Competition for the Award
The Green Jacket — awarded weekly and sponsored by Greene King Level Head IPA — is decided by a vote among the club’s four Saturday captains. This week, the decision wasn’t straightforward. Harry Mason, turning out for the 1st XI, delivered a brilliant bowling performance with six wickets in their home match against Old Owens CC. Ordinarily, such a haul would make Mason a shoo-in for the prize.

However, the captains were unanimous in their praise for Hawkins, who earned the award for the sheer impact and importance of his innings in difficult circumstances. With Scott Higgins leading the 3rd XI in Hawkins’ absence, the man himself did not have a vote — making the recognition from his peers all the more special.

Speaking after the presentation, Hawkins said:

“It’s always nice to help out where you can, and I’m glad I could contribute something for the 2s in what was a big game for them. Obviously, the result wasn’t what we wanted, but we keep fighting. I’m grateful to the captains for the award — and I’m looking forward to getting back out there next week.”

Award Presentation
Hawkins received the Green Jacket in the Hoddesdon clubhouse after the weekend’s matches, shaking hands with 2nd XI captain Adrian Lee, in front of teammates and supporters. The presentation capped a day where his batting, despite the defeat, became the talking point among players and fans alike.

Hoddesdon Cricket Club thanks Greene King for their ongoing support and invites all supporters to enjoy a pint of Level Head IPA—the perfect accompaniment to a winning weekend.

Find your nearest Greene King venue HERE.

As the applause rang out and a pint of Level Head IPA was raised in his honour, there was no doubt that this week’s Green Jacket winner had earned every stitch of that famous velvet.

#GreenMachine