LOOKING back over the 2004 season, Worcester Nomads Cricket Club have concluded that it proved well below the expectations at the outset.

The first XI league side, captained by Malcolm Jones, had the added strength of Phil Newport and their first overseas signing of Sachin Khartade. However, the side finished a disappointing fifth in the Worcestershire County Cricket League division two, with ten wins and five defeats.

The second XI, captained by Anton Madzarevic, finished sixth, as did the third XI, captained by Gerry Kelly.

In July, Nomads toured Somerset and won all three games, and also retained the Birlingham six-a-side trophy.

The first XI Sunday/midweek side had a successful season, winning nine games. Steve Bowman's 176 against Broadwas broke the club record for the highest score.

Two wicket partnership records were broken, first wicket Steve Bowman and Darren Lakin of 266 against Martley, second wicket Steve Bowman and Sachin Khartade, 314 against Broadwas.

Steve Bowman was also the only first XI player to score 1,000 runs, he was also the highest wicket-taker with 44.

Darren Lakin and Gary Sandbrook were also the only other two players to take more than 20 wickets.

The second XI Sunday side had a disastrous season winning only one out of 25. However, the side was young and gained valuable experience.

Also, the season saw further club records broken by Liam O'Driscoll with the highest score, 194 against Feckenham. Batting partnership records were: First wicket Dave Finbow and Dave Pearson, 221 against Hagley; second wicket Chris Bland and Liam O'Driscoll, 252 against Feckenham; fourth wicket James Smith/Malcolm Jones (retired) and Kit Smith, 177 against Broadwas.

The only bowler to take over 20 wickets was John Goodreds with 26.

The third XI was very successful and two young players scored maiden centuries, Geoff Taylor and Anthony Massey. Gary Sandbrook bowled well again, taking 11 wickets.