Match Preview: Hoddesdon 3rd XI vs Little Munden 1st XI – Saturday 28 June 2025

• Venue: Thundridge Cricket Club
• Competition: Herts & Essex Border League Division 3
• Start Time: 13:00
• Weather Forecast: Hot and sunny, highs of 29°C, minimal cloud cover

The scenic surroundings of Thundridge Cricket Club will once again provide the setting this Saturday as Hoddesdon's HEBL 3rd XI return home to face promotion-chasing Little Munden 1st XI in a crucial mid-season Division 3 showdown.

It’s sixth against third in the standings, and with just 10 points separating Hoddesdon from the top five, a win here could breathe fresh momentum into the season for the Green Machine. However, standing in their way is a Little Munden outfit boasting five wins from eight, a strong bowling attack, and their eyes firmly fixed on top spot.

Webb Takes the Reins
With regular skipper Ross Maughan sidelined due to a recurrence of the troublesome toe injury that plagued his early season, vice-captain Louis Webb will step up to lead the side. Webb has been a steady presence in both batting and bowling departments this season and now has the added responsibility of rallying his team in the midst of a baking Hertfordshire heatwave. He will rsurely elish the opportunity to lead a side that features a blend of youth, experience, and a few fresh combinations.

One of those familiar combinations will come from the Webb family itself, with dad Paul Webb included in the line-up. The veteran all-rounder remains a vital cog in Hoddesdon’s third-string machine, providing reliability with the new ball and steel with the bat. Behind the stumps, the return of Peter Draisey provides a timely boost. The experienced wicketkeeper is back in the fold after a few weeks away delivering frozen chickens to various establishments kept at His Majesty's pleasure, and his presence should lend confidence to the bowlers as well as stability to the lower order.

Draisey will also bring valuable insights and support to Webb as a trusted on-field ally in what could be a tactically demanding afternoon under the blazing sun.

Fresh Faces and Key Names
Also making their return is Connor Taylor, a capable player who has shown glimpses of class in recent seasons, while the versatile Tyler Burroughs gets another chance to showcase his batting talent and bowling options. Kaley Till completes the XI and is expected to add balance to the side, whether with the bat, ball or in the field. Till’s work ethic and commitment haven’t gone unnoticed by the selection panel, and Saturday provides a perfect platform to contribute against high-calibre opposition. Reece Jones and Kyle Hay both feature after recent strong efforts in the field and will be vital in maintaining energy across the outfield when the sun is at its fiercest. The Bean brothers are fast becoming one of the most talked about family affairs at the club, threatening to overshadow the Webb Dynasty. Both players are hungry for success and bring many match winning assets to the side.

Freddie and Louis, be warned....

The Opposition: Little Munden 1st XI
Little Munden arrive at Thundridge in fine form. With 125 points from eight matches, they sit third in the Division 3 table and have established themselves as one of the most consistent sides this season.

Their bowling unit is especially dangerous, with a reputation for hitting hard lengths early and often. Hoddesdon’s top order will need to dig in and rotate strike to weather the early storm. Middle-order partnerships will be critical, and the ability to build through the innings could prove the difference between a defendable score and a sub-par total. On the batting front, Munden possess aggressive stroke-makers throughout their line-up. Hoddesdon’s bowlers will have to stay patient, hit their areas consistently, and use the home advantage at Thundridge wisely.

Last week's home win against Abridge saw their batsmen in imperious form with Simon Andrews top scoring woth 59, ably supported by a decent cast that included captain and wicket keeper Ivan Holm (46) and Dilroodan (35). The 57 run win was also largely due to two of their key bowlers, Harrison (19-4 off 6.2) and Saif Khalid (32-3 off 8). Webb will encourage his men to see off these two obvious danger men in order to post a competitive opening total or fire a victorious chase.

Conditions Forecast
The weather gods are promising a scorcher, with temperatures peaking around 29°C and barely a cloud in sight. While that will delight spectators and barbecue enthusiasts alike, it presents additional tactical challenges on the field. Hydration and stamina management will be vital, especially for bowlers expected to send down multiple spells. Fielding positions may require rotation to keep the energy levels high in the closing overs. Captain Webb will need to be clever with his use of spin and changes of pace, particularly in the second innings when the sun-baked surface may start to grip and offer assistance to slower bowlers. As mentioned, he will be well supported by Dad Paul and wicket keeper Draisey, so expect a team effort from the leadership group on Saturday.

Team Line-Up: Hoddesdon CC 3rd XI (HEBL)

1. Louis Webb (captain)
2. Paul Webb
3. Joe Robinson
4. Tyler Burroughs
5. Connor Taylor
6. Austin Bean
7. Rudy Bean
8. Reece Jones
9. Kyle Hay
10. Peter Draisey (wk)
11. Kaley Till

The Skipper Speaks
Speaking ahead of the game, Louis Webb said:

"It’s an honour to lead the side. We’re a close-knit bunch, and although we’ll miss Ross’ calm leadership, I know the lads are up for it. Little Munden are a quality side, but we’ve shown flashes this season of what we’re capable of. If we can string it together, there’s no reason we can’t get the win."

The League Picture
A look at the current Division 3 table paints a tantalising picture. Hoddesdon sit sixth on 91 points, trailing fifth-placed Abridge by just 10. A win this weekend would not only close that gap but potentially leapfrog them into the top five, depending on results elsewhere. Little Munden, meanwhile, will be aiming to consolidate their promotion push. Matching Green and Stansted Hall & Elsenham remain in their sights, and they will know that any slip-up against Hoddesdon could cost them momentum at a critical juncture. How Webb and co would love to spoil the party this weekend.

What to Watch For
The Webb Duo: Louis and Paul Webb will be key men with bat and ball. Their combined performances could well set the tone for the entire day.

Joe Robinson’s Potential: Known for his aggressive intent, Robinson has the capacity to take the game away from the opposition in a handful of overs.

Spin in the Heat: Will the slower options get a long spell under the sun? Expect spin to be a factor as the pitch deteriorates.

Catching in the Cauldron: With a dry outfield and scorching conditions, half chances will need to stick. Peter Draisey’s return could be a deciding factor if chances come early.

Final Thoughts
It’s shaping up to be a cracker at Thundridge. The mercury may be rising, but so too are Hoddesdon’s ambitions. With key players returning, a popular stand-in skipper at the helm, and the promise of a warm home crowd behind them, the Green Machine will be eager to convert potential into points. A tough test awaits against a polished Little Munden outfit, but in cricket, belief and momentum can turn the tide. If the Webbs fire, the Beans combine, the fielders stay sharp, and partnerships build across the innings, there is every chance that Hoddesdon can make Saturday the day their 2025 campaign really ignites. Bring sunscreen, a loud voice, and a cold drink or two – this is one you won’t want to miss.

All roads lead to Thundridge.

#GreenMachine