Green Machine Gear Up for Crucial Friendly Test
With no league fixture this weekend due to Haberdashers 2nd XI’s withdrawal from the HPCL Division 12 East, Hoddesdon Cricket Club’s 3rd XI welcome Mill Hill Village’s Friendly XI to St Mary’s Lane for a timely Saturday afternoon clash.

While points aren’t on the line this week, momentum, match sharpness and valuable time in the middle certainly are — and with a youthful and energetic squad named, the Green Machine will be hoping to bounce back from last week’s loss to Preston with a performance full of purpose.

After two strong showings to start the season — a comprehensive win at Datchworth followed by a spirited defeat against Preston 4s — this friendly offers a golden opportunity to rotate, rebuild confidence, and allow players the chance to put in meaningful time both with bat and ball.

A Week Off from the League, But Not from the Mission
The unusual fixture gap arrives thanks to Haberdashers 2nd XI pulling out of the competition, creating an unplanned bye for Hoddesdon this weekend. But rather than rest on their laurels or risk losing rhythm, the club has proactively arranged this friendly fixture — a move welcomed by the playing group and leadership alike.

Skipper Daniel Hawkins leads a mixed side that blends senior experience with developmental youth, offering a number of players the chance to impress and solidify their roles ahead of the next round of competitive action.

Squad News – Hoddy’s 3rd XI to Field Exciting Line-Up
Here’s the XI that will take the field for Hoddesdon on Saturday:

Daniel Hawkins (c)
Freddie Hawkins
Jack Bailey
Saskia Heard
Scott Higgins
Reece Jones
Greg Marsh
Seb Mccuallgh
Nikunj Pradhan
Joe Robinson (wk)
Adam Tackley

It’s a dynamic, fresh-faced squad full of enthusiasm — with a clear focus on developing game experience, getting overs under the belt, and building confidence at the crease.

Daniel Hawkins will once again be key with the bat, anchoring the top order and looking to lead by example. Scott Higgins continues to be a vital cog in the engine room — offering seam control and know-how. Freddie Hawkins and Nikunj Pradhan, two promising young talents, will be hungry to continue their upward trajectory after recent senior contributions. Exciting all-rounders like Reece Jones, Jack Bailey, and Greg Marsh add balance and depth. Behind the stumps, Joe Robinson returns with gloves in hand, while Adam Tackley and Seb Mccuallgh round out the bowling unit in what is expected to be a fluid, flexible XI.

Rotation and Responsibility
Skipper Hawkins was clear in his pre-match comments about the purpose of the game:

"This is a brilliant opportunity to reset and refocus. Last week we saw massive growth in the group, even in defeat. Saturday gives us a chance to rotate, try new combinations, and give the team some freedom to go out and play.”

“It’s not about the result this week — it’s about rhythm, confidence and learning. That said, we always go out to win and the group is buzzing to be back out there.”

What to Expect – Mill Hill Bring a Formidable Test
Though this is a friendly, Mill Hill Village CC are no strangers to competitive cricket — their 4th XI currently top the Division 12 East table after two dominant performances, and their club-wide strength in depth means Saturday’s visitors will offer a serious examination for Hoddesdon’s blend of youth and promise.

Expect a well-drilled unit capable of swinging the ball, applying pressure, and testing discipline — particularly with the bat. But equally, Hoddesdon’s side has a hunger and togetherness that is growing each week. If the key players click into gear, this has all the makings of a competitive and compelling fixture.

Match Details
Fixture: Hoddesdon CC 3rd XI vs Mill Hill Village CC Friendly XI
Date: Saturday 24 May 2025
Start Time: 13:00
Venue: St Mary’s Lane, Hertingfordbury
Entry: Free for spectators

Socials: Follow the action live on Facebook, X, Instagram and TikTok – use #GreenMachine to join the matchday conversation.

Visit www.hoddesdoncricketclub.co.uk for all the latest fixtures, results, league tables and match reports.

Final Thoughts
No league points, no pressure — but plenty of pride and purpose. For Hoddesdon’s HPCL 3rd XI, this weekend isn’t a break — it’s a building block. Whether it’s for form, fitness, or future selection, there’s plenty to play for.

With good weather forecast, a good crowd expected, and the club’s development pipeline on full display, it’s another exciting step in a growing season.

And with this group’s spirit, skill and togetherness — there’s every reason to believe Saturday will be a successful one.

#GreenMachine