Author Comments

My biggest dilemma was not wanting to include players I hadn't seen personally, but feeling that it was impossible to leave certain people out. My selection of those players is based on match reports, hearsay, and success on the field.

By winning the league this year, the current 1st XI has provided tangible evidence that it is the best ever Brentwood side. Even though I only know Ben and Belly, I can't ignore what Jon Walford and others have achieved in recent years. If I were still able to get over to the OCG these days I suspect my selection would have included a few more current 1st XI players.

Likewise, I never saw one of the other players in my list. Charles Kortright played for Brentwood in the 1892 season and has been described as 'probably the fastest bowler in the history of the game'.

It is claimed he once bowled 6 byes; he battled with W G Grace; and he also featured in John Arlott's 'Best XI never to play Test cricket for England'. How can he be left out of a best-ever Brentwood side?

Mouse was a little Welsh terrier; a solid batsman, a great fielder, a real fighter, and an inspirational captain. The most enjoyable seasons I had were playing for the Sunday 1's under his captaincy.

Going back a long time, Peth and Kevin Crossley were always very special players to watch. Even when comparing them to good club cricketers, they were just in a different class.