News: Chidgey is crowned king of Golden Hill (April 2004)
YMCA's most experienced and well respected fast bowler, James Chidgey has gained the crown as the club's highest ever wicket taker in the newly published YMCA Top 40 Wicket Takers (2003).
Last season proved to be another highly successful campaign for the right handed quickie as he blasted his way through numerous club bowling records on the way to the most coveted prize of all. Father of two Chidgey has, for several seasons, been rapidly closing in on former Golden Hill star bowler, John Ireland's 20 year record of 647 wickets and it was in late August, on a dusky summer's evening that he claimed his 648th victim during a midweek friendly against Lodway.
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| Davies - Remains the clubs greatest bowler....for now! |
Still a long way to go for Big Jim
Despite the fantastic milestone, Chidgey has pledged not to rest until he has reached the Club's 'unofficial' wicket taking record of 1001 dismissals held by the late, great Roy Davies. Whilst most of Davies' averages have been lost (and thus do not qualify for the official statistics) the Clubhouse displays a picture containing a tantalising glimpse into his past achievements thanks to a local newspaper article from the 1960's that celebrates Davies' retirement from cricket after reaching his final tally of 1001 wickets for the club. Chidgey clearly has along way to go but who would bet against him?!!
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| Dury - The Top 40's highest climber |
As Chidgey was, deservedly, gaining all the plaudits, a number of other current players were also making their mark in the Top 40 bowling table. Veteran seamer, Phil Dowle had a successful season in the Second Eleven and jumped two places to fifth whilst the ever-popular Andy Spicer took his tally over 250 wickets and moved up three places to 14th.
However, the highest praise must be heaped on leg spinner, Brian Dury who recent retirement from full time work has worked wonders for his wicket taking abilities. The Under 13's youth team coach rocketed into the Top 40 by finishing in 33rd place. A superb effort.
