A typically damp and grey Stockport summer's day greeted us for the 3rd playing of the Martin Argument Cup, a match played in memory of our school friend Martin Argument (OS 1988) who passed away in 2020. The match is held between the Old Stops and The Cavaliers, a team Martin played for over the years.

This is played at the school’s annual Summer Reunion BBQ, so we don't have to make sandwiches and can meet old friends who have come to the event! This year's match was doubly poignant as another old school friend, Alister Lee, sadly passed away a few weeks ago.

School had been great with helping us organise the match and the 1st team pitch was ready to go, under covers and the pitch marked out.

With the rain easing, the covers were removed and The Cavaliers were sent into bat and immediately set about posting a total and managed an impressive 182 in their 20 overs. At this stage I must comment that a lot of us probably haven't played much cricket since school, if at all, so don't imagine it's cricket like you see on the television! But most of us are quite sporty so swinging the bat comes naturally!

Between innings was the school BBQ which was delicious and was served with a cold beer overlooking the playing fields. By now the day was fine and warming up.

The Old Stops, mainly from 1988, included myself (James Stewart), John Mellor, Andy Whitehead, Matthew Birt, Colin Nevett, Dom Huxley, Ravi Patel, John Ward, Graham Warburton, Krish Mehta, Ben Richmond (OS 2014) and special mention to Niall Bissett for coming over from Canada for the event.

As the day warmed up so did the competition and with notable help from the ever elegant batsman Ravi Patel and youngster Ben Richmond a nail biter was set up with Old Stops needing 19 off the last 2 overs.

Step up John Mellor to hit the winning runs with a ball to spare! Old Stops now take the lead in the series 2-1 and have the bragging rights until this time next year.

Once again thanks to school for all of their help, notably from Aria and on the day, Hannah, and to all who turned up to play or support.

If you fancy playing next year then let school know once the Summer Reunion BBQ invite comes out.

James Stewart (OS 1988)