Chare Smith Finishes Season With Club Record
[Written by Stephen Wright]
Bermuda cricketer Chare Smith signed off the season in style by claiming the best bowling figures in his English village club’s history and helping them win promotion.
The seam bowler took seven wickets for 31 runs in Uphill Castle’s ten-wicket win over West Monkton last weekend, with his team finishing second in the World Class Willow Somerset League – First Division.
Smith picked up 48 wickets at an average of 17.46 and scored 297 runs with bat, averaging 16.50 with a top score of 71.
“Taking seven wickets in my final game of the season felt good,” Smith told Bernews. “I only found out they were the best bowling figures in the club’s history a few days later!”
The 25-year-old also helped Uphill Castle win the Somerset Cricket Foundation Intermediate T20 Cup and said the team are keen for him to return next summer.
Smith spent last winter playing for Hurley’s Hounds in Victoria, Australia, helping them to their first Goulburn Valley Bush Bash T20 title; however, he believes his bowling style is better suited to England’s overcast conditions than the fast and bouncy Australian pitches.
“I received a message from the Uphill Castle captain [Paddy Holyday] when I was playing in Australia,” said Smith, who has played for Warwick Workmen’s Club and St David’s.
“He said they had got relegated and needed some help getting promoted.
“I had a tough start to the season, and I couldn’t quite find my rhythm.
“I made some adjustments and improved, and the English conditions suit me as I’ve taught myself to swing the ball both ways.
“I see myself at Uphill next season. They want to win back-to-back promotions [from the Somerset League – Premier Division] and reach the West of England Premier League.”
Smith, who previously spent four seasons playing for Frenchay Cricket Club in Bristol, has represented Bermuda Under-19 and the senior national team and has not ruled out playing for his country again in the future.
“It’s always a pleasure playing for your country and having your family cheering you on,” said Smith, who has played one Cup Match for St George’s.
“I’m working hard in England and developing my game. When the time comes [to play for Bermuda], I’ll snatch it up and make the most of it.”
Congratulations Chare. WARRIOR SPIRIT!!
Alright young man you have done well. Congrats on understanding your style getting opportunities using them and your professional achievements. Good job to your teams placing in the League